Full Breakdown
New Line Secures Theo James Krekis Horror Package “Jealous People Are Ugly People”
7/28/2026, 4:05:51 AM
Core Acquisition
Deadline reports that New Line Cinema has acquired the horror feature “Jealous People Are Ugly People,” written and directed by Greek-British filmmaker Theo James Krekis. The deal emerged from a competitive bidding war that involved at least 10 parties. The film will expand Krekis’ 2026 short of the same title, which premiered in the Midnight Madness program at SXSW after being commissioned by the BBC and produced by the UK outfit The Fold.
Background and Market Context
Krekis’ short follows a character named Vasilly whose jealousy over a friend’s career success awakens a dark supernatural force. The acquisition reflects a broader industry appetite for “elevated genre” projects from emerging digital-first talent. Recent horror releases such as **Curry Barker’s *Obsession* (Focus Features) and Kane Parson’s *Backrooms*** (A24) set studio records, prompting studios to pursue similar next-generation horror IPs.
Production Team and Partnerships
The feature will be produced by Jennifer Monks and Michelle Stein of The Fold, alongside Temple Hill Entertainment representatives Isaac Klausner, John Fischer, Ben Levine, and Ethan Cappello. New Line’s internal overseers are Josh Mack and Lauren Botchan. Krekis is also developing a second feature with BBC Film and a six-part series titled *Blossom* with Clerkenwell Films, while writing for a new series from the creator of *Peaky Blinders* for Kudos.
Market Impact and Upcoming Slate
The acquisition adds to New Line’s horror lineup, which already includes scheduled releases The Revenge of La Llorona on February 26, 2027, The Conjuring: First Communion on September 10, 2027, and The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum on December 17, 2027. The studio’s recent horror release, **Sébastien Vanicek’s *Evil Dead Burn*, debuted on July 10** (scheduled), underscoring a strategic focus on genre titles.
What’s Next
Krekis will adapt his short into a feature from his own script, with production slated to begin later this year. The project’s progress will be tracked alongside New Line’s expanding horror slate, positioning the studio to capitalize on the current demand for bold, digitally-savvy horror storytelling.
