Audiences won’t have to wait long for a new chilling experience, as the horror film undertone is slated to arrive in theaters on March 13. The upcoming movie has already generated significant buzz thanks to its unsettling trailer and unique approach to sound design.
A New Soundscape of Horror
Last year delivered a remarkably strong lineup of scary movies, but 2026 is poised to continue that trend. While Sam Raimi’s Send Help is on the horizon, Ian Tuason’s undertone has quickly become a must-see for genre fans.
Undertone, a Canadian production, premiered at the Fantasia International Film Festival last summer before being acquired for distribution by A24. Despite featuring a relatively unknown cast and marking Tuason’s debut as a writer and director, the film is gaining traction for its innovative use of audio. The 85-minute runtime promises a deeply immersive, and potentially disturbing, experience.
The Story Behind the Static
Nina Kiri, recognized for her role as Alma in The Handmaid’s Tale, stars as Evy, a paranormal podcast host. Evy begins investigating audio files sent to her and her co-host, purportedly documenting a couple’s haunting. However, listening to these recordings unleashes a series of unforeseen and dangerous consequences as she cares for her ailing mother.
The trailer itself is a masterclass in aural horror, enveloping viewers in a cacophony of creepy noises, whispers, and even a haunting rendition of “Baa, Baa, Black Sheep.” The impact is amplified even through standard computer speakers, leading to speculation about the intensity of the experience on a theater’s sound system. Sound designers David Gertsman and Steph Copeland appear to have crafted a truly unique sonic landscape.
- Undertone is a Canadian horror film acquired by A24.
- It stars Nina Kiri as a paranormal podcast host.
- The film’s trailer highlights its innovative sound design.
- Undertone will be released in theaters on March 13.
With its intriguing premise and emphasis on aural terror, undertone is quickly becoming one of the most anticipated horror releases of 2026. If the full film delivers on the promise of its trailer, it’s likely to be a strong contender for “best of” lists at the end of the year.
