A24 Partners with Dolby Cinema for "Undertone" Screenings

"Undertone," directed by Ian Tuason, is a horror film that centers on a paranormal podcast host who becomes haunted by eerie audio recordings that resonate with her own life experiences. The film stars Nina Kiri, Adam DiMarco, Michèle Duquet, Keana Lyn Bastidas, and Jeff Yung. It premiered at the Fantasia Film Festival and received critical acclaim, leading A24 to acquire the rights for a seven-figure sum. The film is set for a wider theatrical release on March 13, following special early-access screenings in over 100 Dolby Cinema theaters on March 9.

A24 Teams With Dolby Cinema For Screenings Of Undertone

A24's collaboration with Dolby Cinema aims to enhance the viewing experience of "Undertone" through advanced sound and visual technology. The film will utilize Dolby Atmos sound, which creates a three-dimensional auditory environment, allowing viewers to feel enveloped by the soundscape. Ian Tuason described this approach as akin to a "theatrical haunted house amusement park ride," emphasizing the immersive nature of the experience. Jed Harmsen, VP & General Manager of Cinema & Group Entertainment at Dolby Laboratories, noted that the combination of Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision will provide a unique cinematic experience, enhancing the film's suspenseful elements.

IndieWireA24 Teams With Dolby Cinema For Screenings Of Undertone

"Undertone" is a deeply personal project for Tuason, who drew inspiration from his experiences caring for his parents and his affinity for podcasts during that time. He meticulously crafted the film's structure by analyzing the rhythms and patterns of successful horror films, employing a color-coded script to differentiate between creepy moments and jump scares. This attention to detail reflects Tuason's commitment to creating a compelling horror narrative.

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The release of "Undertone" represents A24's strategic effort to reclaim its reputation in the horror genre, which has faced competition from other studios like NEON in recent years. The film's early screenings in Dolby Cinema are part of a broader marketing strategy to generate buzz and anticipation ahead of its general release. Given the film's festival success and the significant investment made by A24, expectations for "Undertone" are high.

A24 Teams With Dolby Cinema For Screenings Of Undertone

While the film has garnered positive attention, some industry observers note that A24's recent struggles in the horror market may lead to heightened scrutiny of "Undertone." Critics may question whether the film can meet the elevated expectations set by its festival debut and the studio's previous successes.

A24 Teams With Dolby Cinema For Screenings Of Undertone

Following the early screenings on March 9, "Undertone" will be released in theaters on March 13. The film's performance will be closely monitored as A24 seeks to reestablish its dominance in the horror genre.

A24 Teams With Dolby Cinema For Screenings Of Undertone

• “Dolby Atmos gave me the opportunity to create a theatrical haunted house amusement park ride for you and your friends to experience together,” — Ian Tuason, Director

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