Shudder kicks off original programming with documentary Primal Screen

Last Updated on July 31, 2021

Following the lead of other streaming services like Netflix, Amazon, and Hulu, AMC Networks' genre-centric premium streaming service Shudder has announced that they have begun developing their own original content. There are currently six projects in the works that will be released under the "Shudder Originals" banner, and the first one scheduled to make its way out into the world is Rodney Ascher's horror documentary PRIMAL SCREEN.

The synopsis for PRIMAL SCREEN explains that the documentary will 

explore how individuals are simultaneously attracted to and repelled by what scares them most. Acclaimed filmmaker Rodney Ascher (Room 237, The Nightmare) has created a singular hybrid of documentary and horror that explores the pop-culture artifacts that traumatized individuals in their youth and the effects it has had on their lives.

PRIMAL SCREEN will be making its Shudder debut on Thursday, June 8th.

Other Shudder Originals currently in development include:  

DEADWAX – A short form series about the hunt for a mysterious record that drives its owners mad… and kills anyone who dares to play it.  From Graham Reznick, co-writer of Until Dawn and director of I Can See You.

RIPRORE – In the heart of gangland Los Angeles, a gruesome discovery sparks a frenetic Homicide Investigation; but underneath the surface lurks a darkness that leads to the end of days. From Sam Sheridan (former MMA fighter and Author of A FIGHTER’S HEART and THE DISASTER DIARIES), with Patty Jenkins attached.

THE BLONDES – A woman treks to find the father of her unborn child, while navigating a world where blonde haired women could turn into rabid monsters at any moment. Based on the novel by Emily Schultz and executive Produced by J. Todd Harris, Marc Marcum and Branded Entertainment.

UNTITLED ARKASHA STEVENSON PROJECT – A serial killer series loosely based on Ted Bundy and his relationship with his long-time girlfriend, written and directed by Arkasha Stevenson (Pineapple).

That's a very promising slate, it looks like this "Shudder Originals" endeavor is going to be worth keeping an eye on. PRIMAL SCREEN gets it started in less than a week, so now is the perfect time to check out the trailer below: