Full Breakdown
Darren Lynn Bousman's Upcoming Horror Film "Twisted" Receives R Rating
11/27/2025, 8:51:20 AM
Overview of "Twisted"
Darren Lynn Bousman, known for his work on the "Saw" franchise, is set to release his latest horror film, "Twisted," previously titled "The Monster." The film has been rated "R" by the Motion Picture Association (MPA) for its strong and bloody violent content, gore, sexual assault, suicide, language, and some sexual material. The cast includes Lauren LaVera, who gained recognition for her role in "Terrifier 2," alongside Djimon Hounsou, Mia Healey, Gina Philips, Jacob Lukas Anderson, Alicia Witt, and Neal McDonough.
Plot Synopsis
"Twisted" follows two millennials who engage in a scam by leasing luxurious New York City apartments they do not own to unsuspecting renters. Their scheme appears to be successful until they encounter an apartment owner with a dark secret, leading to a dramatic turn of events. The screenplay was penned by Jonathan Bernstein and James Greer, who previously collaborated on Steven Soderbergh’s "Unsane."
Production Details
The film is produced by Lee Nelson and David Tish of Envision Media Arts, with Mark Burg, a producer from the "Saw" series, also involved in the project. Lukas Behnken serves as the executive producer, while Jonathan M. Black and Lauren Black are co-producers. Production for "Twisted" concluded at the end of 2024, and it has secured distribution through Paramount’s Republic Pictures. A release date for the film has yet to be announced.
Industry Perspectives
Mark Burg expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating that Bousman's script is filled with "incredible twists and turns" and that the collaboration with Hounsou would result in a film that "will scare the hell out of audiences worldwide." Producers Tish and Nelson emphasized their commitment to exploring new avenues in horror, asserting that "Twisted" is a unique and special addition to the genre.
Criticism & Opposition
While the film's R rating has been met with interest, some critics have raised concerns about the portrayal of sensitive themes such as sexual assault and suicide. The inclusion of these elements in horror narratives often sparks debate regarding their impact on audiences and the responsibility of filmmakers in handling such topics.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Burg had this to say about Twisted when it was first announced: “ Darren sent me a script with incredible twists and turns and the opportunity to work with him and the brilliant Djimon Hounsou.” — Mark Burg, Producer
- “ Tish and Nelson added, “ We love finding new ways into horror and when we read The Monster we knew it was special.” — Lee Nelson and David Tish, Producers
"Twisted" is positioned to be a significant entry in the horror genre, combining Bousman's directorial experience with a compelling narrative and a talented cast. As anticipation builds, the film's reception will likely hinge on its handling of the complex themes it explores.
