Ernest Dickerson to Direct Folk-Horror Comic *Black Diamond* Film Adaptation

Fangoria Studios and Panick Studios are co-producing a feature-length adaptation of the folk-horror comic *Black Diamond*. Ernest Dickerson, known for directing episodes of *The Walking Dead* and the film *Tales from the Crypt: Demon Knight*, will direct and serve as executive producer. The screenplay is written by the comic’s creator, Brendan Columbus. Fangoria’s producing team includes Tara Ansley, Abhi Goel and Armen Aghaeian; Panick’s producers are Brendan Columbus, Adam Schlagman and Kris Longo, with Rose Geddes joining Dickerson as an executive producer. The project marks Panick Studios’ first feature film.

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The story follows Owen and Victoria Welch on a family ski trip that turns into a nightmare after their son is seized by a mysterious cult. The parents must choose between sacrificing another child or losing their own. Critics have likened the tone to *The Wicker Man* and the suspense of Alfred Hitchcock, indicating a blend of atmospheric dread and moral dilemma.

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Columbus said the film is designed to keep audiences glued to their seats, emphasizing an immersive experience where missing a moment could forfeit a crucial twist. He also praised Dickerson’s visual style, calling it essential for delivering the story’s terror. Production notes confirm that Dickerson’s involvement marks his return to feature directing after a 2017 project.

‘Black Diamond’ Folk Horror Comic Series Getting Feature Adaptation from Ernest Dickerson for Fangoria Studios

• Director: Ernest Dickerson (also executive producer)

‘Black Diamond’ Folk Horror Comic Series Getting Feature Adaptation from Ernest Dickerson for Fangoria Studios

• Writer: Brendan Columbus

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• Executive producers: Ernest Dickerson, Rose Geddes

‘Black Diamond’ Folk Horror Comic Series Getting Feature Adaptation from Ernest Dickerson for Fangoria Studios

• Production companies: Fangoria Studios, Panick Studios

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• Producers: Tara Ansley, Abhi Goel, Armen Aghaeian (Fangoria); Brendan Columbus, Adam Schlagman, Kris Longo (Panick)

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• Note: Panick’s inaugural feature

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Neither source provides a release schedule, budget, or distribution partner. Variety’s article includes a reliability rating of 41.29, while Dread Central offers no reliability metric, leaving key financial and timeline details unverified.

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• “Said Columbus, “Black Diamond was my attempt to put everything I love about thrillers on the page.” — Brendan Columbus, Creator

‘Black Diamond’ Folk Horror Comic Series Getting Feature Adaptation from Ernest Dickerson for Fangoria Studios

• “I want to make sure it feels like you physically can’t leave the theater or else you’ll miss the next twist or turn.” — Brendan Columbus, Creator

‘Black Diamond’ Folk Horror Comic Series Getting Feature Adaptation from Ernest Dickerson for Fangoria Studios

• “I want to make sure it feels like you physically can’t leave the theater or else you’ll miss the next twist or turn. With his masterful cinematic eye and his great story sense, Ernest is going to scare the hell out of everyone with this one.” — Brendan Columbus, Creator

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• “‘Black Diamond’ follows Owen and Victoria Welch on a family ski trip that spirals into a nightmare. When their son is abducted by a mysterious cult, the couple is pushed to the brink and faced with a soul-crushing ultimatum: sacrifice another child or lose their own forever.” — Plot description, Variety

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Production is underway; Fangoria’s upcoming titles *Goodbye, Monster* and *Sitora* are slated for later this year. Panick intends to use *Black Diamond* as a springboard for further genre projects, and Dickerson’s involvement is expected to draw horror fans upon release.

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