The Horror Collective Acquires Rights to '213 Bones'

The Horror Collective, an indie genre distributor owned by Shaked Berenson’s Studio Dome, has secured worldwide rights to the slasher film "213 Bones." This film, which is set to be showcased at the upcoming Cannes Film Festival, is a nostalgic homage to the 1990s slasher genre. The narrative unfolds in 1993 and follows a group of college students in the Pacific Northwest who become targets of a masked killer amid a series of brutal murders. As paranoia escalates, the survivors must identify the killer before they fall victim themselves.

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"213 Bones" is characterized by its ensemble-driven storytelling, central mystery, and stylized kill sequences, reminiscent of iconic films such as "Scream," "I Know What You Did Last Summer," and "Urban Legend." The film features a soundtrack that includes tracks from notable artists of the era, such as Chris Cornell, Soundgarden, The Jesus and Mary Chain, and the Melvins. The cast includes Luna Fujimoto, Hunter Nance, Colin Egglesfield, Dean Cameron, Liam Woodrum, Toni Weiss, and Frances Barker McCormick, alongside a younger ensemble that embodies classic slasher archetypes. The film was directed by Jeffrey Primm, who passed away shortly after its completion, marking this project as a significant part of his legacy.

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Shaked Berenson expressed confidence in the film's marketability, stating that "213 Bones" delivers a clear concept, a strong ensemble, and a defined slasher identity that resonates with international audiences. He described it as a "clean, commercial genre package with enough personality to stand out." The Horror Collective plans to release the film in the United States, while Studio Dome will handle global territory rights sales at Cannes.

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In discussing the acquisition, Berenson noted, “’213 Bones’ delivers exactly what the international market responds to in this space.” This sentiment underscores the film's potential appeal within the horror genre, particularly among fans of 1990s slasher films.

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While the film has garnered attention for its nostalgic elements and ensemble cast, some critics may question the originality of its premise, given the saturation of the slasher genre in recent years. The reliance on established tropes and familiar soundtracks could be seen as a double-edged sword, appealing to nostalgia while potentially lacking innovation.

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• “’213 Bones’ delivers exactly what the international market responds to in this space, a clear concept, a strong ensemble, and a defined slasher identity that travels,” — Shaked Berenson, Owner of The Horror Collective.

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As "213 Bones" prepares for its release, anticipation builds for its reception at the Cannes Film Festival, where it will be presented to potential buyers and audiences alike. The film's unique blend of nostalgia and horror may pave the way for further discussions about its impact on the genre and its commercial viability.

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