**Gregg Sulkin Joins Cast of Spider Thriller ‘Arachnid’ by New Genre Label Badlands**
Gregg Sulkin, known for his role in Marvel’s “Runaways,” has officially joined the cast of the upcoming spider thriller “Arachnid.” This film marks the debut feature from Badlands, a new indie genre label created by Basil Iwanyk and Erica Lee’s Thunder Road, along with longtime Screen Gems executive Scott Strauss, and Andrew Schwartzberg and Jon Shiffman’s Renegade Capital.
Joining Sulkin in the cast are William Miller, recognized for his work in “The 100,” and Melina Matthews, who starred in “Warrior Nun.” The film also features Matilda Lutz, previously announced as a lead. “Arachnid” is currently being shot overseas under the direction of Ángel Gómez Hernández, known for his work on “Voces.” The script is penned by Jayson Rothwell, who has credits including “Underworld: Blood Wars.”
The plot of “Arachnid” centers around a man who returns from a trip unknowingly carrying a new breed of arachnid. This leads to a quarantine of an apartment block, where residents must fend for themselves against a plague of venomous spiders. The film promises a gripping narrative filled with suspense and horror, making it a thrilling addition to the genre.
The production team for “Arachnid” includes Jayson Rothwell, Andrew Schwartzberg, Jon Shiffman, Peter Welter, Alexandra Milchan, and Josh Weinstock. Altitude Film Sales is handling international sales, having introduced the project to buyers at Cannes earlier this summer. CAA Media Finance is managing domestic rights.
Gregg Sulkin has built a diverse portfolio in the entertainment industry. Besides his role in “Runaways,” he has appeared in series such as PBS’s “World on Fire,” Netflix’s “Pretty Smart,” and The CW’s “Pretty Little Liars.” His upcoming projects include Tyler Perry’s “Six Triple Eight” and the European thriller series “The Kollective.” Sulkin’s film credits also include indie projects like “The Throwback” and “The List.”
William Miller, another notable addition to the cast, has made a name for himself with roles in Netflix’s “Warrior Nun” and The CW’s “The 100.” His filmography includes appearances in “Megan Leavey” and “The Man Who Killed Don Quixote.”
Melina Matthews, who also stars in “Arachnid,” has an impressive resume. She has appeared in “Warrior Nun” and “Megan Leavey,” and her other notable credits include Netflix’s “Iron Reign,” the Penélope Cruz-Antonio Banderas starrer “Official Competition,” and Pedro Almodóvar’s upcoming “The Room Next Door.”
The representation for the cast members is as follows: Gregg Sulkin is represented by D2 Management, Curtis Brown Group, and Independent Artist Group; William Miller by Alter Ego Talent House and Buchwald; and Melina Matthews by Bedelka Talent.
The launch of Badlands marks an exciting new chapter for the genre film industry. The label aims to produce high-quality, engaging films that push the boundaries of traditional storytelling. “Arachnid” is the first of many projects that Badlands plans to bring to audiences, promising a fresh take on the horror and thriller genres.
The film’s debut at Cannes has already generated significant buzz, with industry insiders eager to see how Badlands will carve out its niche in the competitive world of genre filmmaking. The collaboration between Thunder Road, Renegade Capital, and seasoned professionals like Scott Strauss ensures that “Arachnid” will be a well-crafted and compelling film.
As the film industry continues to evolve, the emergence of new labels like Badlands highlights the ongoing demand for innovative and captivating stories. “Arachnid” is poised to be a standout film, combining a talented cast, experienced production team, and a thrilling storyline that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
With the film currently in production, fans of the genre can look forward to a release that promises to deliver both scares and excitement. The involvement of actors like Gregg Sulkin, William Miller, and Melina Matthews adds a layer of credibility and anticipation to the project, ensuring that “Arachnid” will be a must-watch for horror enthusiasts.
In conclusion, “Arachnid” represents a significant milestone for Badlands and the genre film industry as a whole. With a talented cast, experienced production team, and a gripping storyline, the film is set to make a lasting impact. As the debut feature from Badlands, “Arachnid” is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting journey for the new indie genre label.
Source: Deadline
