Courtesy of Reto Sterchi, Ryan West, Alberto E. Rodriguez

James Paxton, Emily Tosta, Malcolm McDowell to Star in Psychological Horror ‘Dirt’ (EXCLUSIVE)

by · Variety

“Twisters” star James Paxton and “Mayans MC’s” Emily Tosta are set to head the cast of psychological horror “Dirt.” Production on the film, directed by Cosmos Kiindarius, begins November in New Mexico.

The film features an all-star supporting cast including Owen Vaccaro (“The House With a Clock in Its Walls”), Courtney Gaines (“Back to the Future”), Heather Langenkamp (“A Nightmare on Elm Street”) and Malcolm McDowell.

According to a statement, “this chilling blend of romance, psychological horror, and addiction delves deep into the complexities of love and the dark corners of the human mind.”

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“Dirt” follows Sammy (Paxton) and Marisol (Tosta), an ill-fated couple embarking on a road trip from Miami to Los Angeles in search of a fresh start. Their journey takes a sinister turn when they accidentally hit a mysterious desert creature, unleashing a powerful curse that intertwines their fates with themes of addiction and despair. As they confront their pasts and the horrors of their choices, the road ahead becomes perilously unpredictable.

“’Dirt’ is as layered thematically as the painted desert that it’s set in,” Kiindarius said. “It explores the universal experience of returning to love after pain and the haunting addiction to our own thoughts that can lead to self-destruction.”

It is produced by Salomé Breziner and Kiindarius.

Breziner said, “This horror-tinged thriller blurs the boundaries of magical realism and deeply felt visceral emotions. We’re excited to take audiences on this dark and thrilling journey.”

Paxton is represented by Dan Green at Green Management and Anne Woodward at Authentic. Tosta is represented by Michael Greene at Greene Talent. Vaccaro is represented by Margot Menzel of Luber Roklin Entertainment and Trina Allen at Play Management. McDowell is represented by Chris Roe Management.