Full Breakdown
Door: Indie Sci-Fi Horror Film Enters Production
8/19/2026, 12:14:26 AM
Film Overview
“Door” is an independent science-fiction horror feature that follows a family whose reality collapses after a father unknowingly opens a portal that reflects the subconscious of anyone who steps through. The premise blends family drama with speculative terror, positioning the film as a genre-bending exploration of trauma and identity.
Production Details
The picture is being shot in Portland, Oregon, under the direction of sibling duo Sara Magness and Wil Magness, who also co-wrote the screenplay. Production is handled by Sara Magness, Wil Magness and Stacy Lorts through the Why Because Films banner, with Courtney Tait listed as co-producer. Casting was overseen by Jessica Munks and Simon Max Hill. The Magnesses previously created the short “The Manual,” which screened at 30 international festivals, earned 18 nominations, won 14 awards—including Best Short Film and Best Director—and was later acquired by Gunpowder + Sky’s streaming platform Dust, where it amassed more than 800,000 views.
Key Cast and Crew
- Amanda Warren – leads the film; known for roles on *The Leftovers*, *Dickinson* and *The Night Agent*. She is also appearing in the Cannes Directors’ Fortnight war drama *Atonement* and upcoming Netflix projects *Fight for ’84* and *Myron Bolitar*.
- Evan Jonigkeit – co-star; an Emmy-nominated actor recognized for *The Hunting Wives*, *Archive 81* and *The Night House*.
- Supporting actors – Akira Jackson (*It Ends*), River Blossom (*Abbott Elementary*), Johnny Sibilly (*Hacks*) and Henry Ian Cusick (*Lost*).
- Directors – Sara Magness and Wil Magness, making their feature-length directorial debut after the success of their short film.
Creative Vision
They note that the story draws on personal traumatic moments and their interest in how extreme trauma can produce altered versions of oneself, positioning that personal connection as the emotional core of the film.
Data & Statistics
- “The Manual” short screened at 30 festivals, received 18 nominations, won 14 awards, and logged over 800,000 views on Dust.
The project is currently in principal photography, with release timing not yet announced.
