A24 is bringing a fresh take on a classic tale of horror to the big screen. The production company has announced “The Masque of the Red Death,” a new film adaptation of Edgar Allan Poe’s chilling short story. Rising star Sydney Sweeney, known for her Emmy-nominated roles in “Euphoria” and “The White Lotus,” is set to lead the project.
This new adaptation is being described as a “wildly revisionist and darkly comedic take” on Poe’s original work. The film represents an exciting collaboration between A24 and Picturestart, with Charlie Polinger attached to direct. A24’s involvement suggests this will be another unique addition to their catalog of distinctive films.
The original story follows Prince Prospero, who tries to avoid a dangerous plague by hiding in his abbey with other wealthy nobles. This modern reimagining will likely bring new dimensions to Poe’s themes of mortality and hubris while maintaining the gothic elements that made the original so memorable.
A24’s Bold Take on Poe’s Gothic Classic
A24, known for its daring and visionary approach to filmmaking, is bringing Edgar Allan Poe’s The Masque of the Red Death to the big screen in a way never seen before. This adaptation isn’t just another gothic horror film—it’s a wildly revisionist, darkly comedic, and visually extravagant reimagining of Poe’s macabre masterpiece.
A Story of Isolation, Decadence, and Doom
At its core, The Masque of the Red Death is a chilling tale of hubris. Prince Prospero, a hedonistic noble, believes he can outwit death itself. As a plague ravages the land, he and his wealthy companions retreat into a secluded abbey, locking the doors behind them to indulge in endless revelry. But fate—and something far more terrifying—has other plans.
This upcoming adaptation leans into the horror and psychological tension of the original story while adding a modern, satirical edge. With an emphasis on excessive wealth, unchecked privilege, and a world that thrives in ignorance while death lurks at the door, the film is poised to resonate deeply with contemporary audiences.
Sydney Sweeney Steps Into a Haunting Role
Sydney Sweeney, one of Hollywood’s most electrifying young talents, is set to star in a pivotal role. Known for her emotionally raw performances in Euphoria and Reality, Sweeney’s involvement signals that this adaptation won’t shy away from intensity. Whether she plays the doomed revelers’ last vestige of innocence or embodies something far more sinister, her presence guarantees a performance that will leave audiences unsettled.
A Director With a Vision
Charlie Polinger, a rising filmmaker with a reputation for blending the surreal with the unsettling, takes the helm as writer and director. His work often straddles the line between the absurd and the horrifying—making him the perfect choice for a story that demands both grandeur and creeping dread. Expect a richly atmospheric film where every lavish detail hides a deeper sense of unease.
A24’s Signature Horror Aesthetic
A24 has built a legacy on horror films that are as much about existential dread as they are about supernatural terror. From Hereditary to The Witch, the studio has a history of crafting films that leave audiences haunted long after the credits roll. The Masque of the Red Death will likely follow in this tradition, transforming Poe’s eerie ballrooms into a nightmarish landscape dripping with color, light, and creeping doom.
One of the most striking elements of Poe’s original story is the shifting hues of Prospero’s grand party, each room painted in a different, symbolic shade. Expect A24 to fully embrace this visual language, turning the film into a mesmerizing kaleidoscope of excess and terror.
A Timely Horror Story for a New Generation
While The Masque of the Red Death is a gothic tale from the 19th century, its themes feel disturbingly modern. The idea of the elite ignoring catastrophe in favor of their own pleasure, only to find themselves trapped in their own illusions, is a reflection of our own era’s anxieties. In the hands of A24, this adaptation is likely to be more than just a horror film—it will be a mirror held up to society’s darkest instincts.
When Can We Expect It?
Production is set to begin in 2025, with a likely release in 2026. Given A24’s meticulous attention to detail and willingness to let their filmmakers take creative risks, the wait will undoubtedly be worth it.
Whether you’re a fan of Edgar Allan Poe, gothic horror, or simply love a film that gets under your skin, The Masque of the Red Death promises to be an unforgettable cinematic experience. As the Red Death comes knocking, we’ll all be watching.
Key Takeaways
- Sydney Sweeney will star in A24’s adaptation of “The Masque of the Red Death,” bringing star power to this horror classic.
- The film offers a darkly comedic and revisionist approach to Edgar Allan Poe’s famous short story.
- A24’s involvement signals a potentially unique vision that could elevate this adaptation beyond traditional horror fare.
The A24 Adaptation
A24’s adaptation of “The Masque of the Red Death” represents a bold new take on Edgar Allan Poe’s classic tale, blending dark comedy with the gothic elements of the original story. The production company has assembled a creative team and cast that aims to bring a fresh perspective to this literary classic.
Vision and Direction
Charlie Polinger has been tapped to direct this adaptation, which is being described as “wildly revisionist and darkly comedic.” This approach marks a significant departure from previous adaptations that typically embraced the pure horror elements of Poe’s work. A24, known for its innovative storytelling and distinctive visual style, seems poised to reimagine the 1842 short story for modern audiences.
The original tale follows Prince Prospero, who attempts to avoid a deadly plague by hiding in his abbey with other wealthy nobles. The A24 version appears to maintain these core elements while adding contemporary themes and humor.
The production represents a collaboration between A24 and Picturestart, combining their creative resources to bring this unique vision to life.
Casting Choices
Sydney Sweeney has been announced as the star of this adaptation, marking another significant role in her rapidly growing career. Sweeney has previously worked with A24 on the hit HBO series “Euphoria,” where her performance as Cassie earned her an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actress.
Sweeney’s casting suggests the film may center on a female protagonist, potentially reimagining the original story’s perspective. Her background in both dramatic and comedic roles makes her well-suited for a “darkly comedic” take on Poe’s material.
The actress has gained critical acclaim through her work on “The White Lotus” and has been establishing herself as a versatile film actress. Additional cast members have not yet been announced.
Production Design
While specific details about the production design remain limited, A24’s reputation suggests viewers can expect a visually striking interpretation of Poe’s gothic setting. The original story features a masquerade ball in an abbey with distinctively colored rooms, elements that provide rich visual opportunities for the production team.
A24 productions typically feature strong aesthetic choices and meticulous attention to detail. Their approach to horror and dark comedy often involves thoughtful production design that enhances thematic elements.
The adaptation will likely balance period elements from the original story with modern sensibilities, creating a unique visual language for this “wildly revisionist” take. The masquerade setting offers opportunities for creative costume design and atmospheric set pieces that could define the film’s visual identity.
Edgar Allan Poe’s Original Story
Edgar Allan Poe published “The Masque of the Red Death” in 1842, crafting a haunting tale that explores themes of mortality and the futile attempts to escape death. The story combines gothic horror elements with rich symbolism and reflects the disease anxieties of Poe’s era.
Plot Summary
“The Masque of the Red Death” follows Prince Prospero, who attempts to avoid a deadly plague by secluding himself and a thousand nobles in his securely sealed abbey. The Red Death plague causes victims to experience sharp pains, sudden dizziness, and profuse bleeding from the pores, with distinctive scarlet stains appearing on their faces.
While the disease ravages the countryside, Prince Prospero hosts an extravagant masquerade ball in seven connected but distinctively colored rooms. The final room is decorated in black with blood-red windows and contains an ebony clock that stops the festivities each hour with its ominous chime.
During the celebration, a mysterious figure appears dressed as a Red Death victim. Enraged, Prince Prospero pursues this intruder through the seven rooms, only to die upon confronting them. The guests discover no physical form beneath the costume—the Red Death itself has infiltrated their sanctuary.
Themes and Symbolism
The story’s central theme is the inevitability of death. Despite wealth and privilege, Prince Prospero cannot escape mortality. The seven rooms symbolize the stages of human life, arranged from east (birth) to west (death), with the black room representing the final stage.
The ebony clock serves as a powerful memento mori, reminding revelers of passing time and approaching death. Its hourly tolls force even the merriest dancers to pause, acknowledging mortality’s constant presence.
Color symbolism plays a crucial role throughout the tale. The vibrant room colors contrast with the darkness of the final chamber. The Red Death itself embodies both blood and the plague, while the mysterious figure represents death personified.
The masquerade setting highlights the human tendency to hide behind facades while facing life’s most frightening realities.
Historical Context
Poe wrote “The Masque of the Red Death” during a time when epidemics regularly devastated populations. Tuberculosis had claimed several of Poe’s loved ones, including his mother and his wife Virginia, who was battling the disease when he wrote this story.
The tale may have been partially inspired by historical plagues like the Black Death that swept through Europe. Some literary scholars suggest that the story reflects social tensions of Poe’s time, criticizing the wealthy elite who could isolate themselves from societal problems while ordinary citizens suffered.
The story’s publication in 1842 came during a period when Gothic literature was popular. Poe’s work fit into this tradition while adding his distinctive psychological depth and symbolic complexity.
Poe’s narrative also engages with transcendentalist ideas of his era by presenting a counterpoint to optimistic views of human nature and progress, instead focusing on darker aspects of the human condition.
Screenplay and Interpretation
The adaptation of Poe’s classic tale by A24 takes a unique approach to the source material. The screenplay builds upon the original short story while adding modern elements and creative twists.
Narrative Structure
The screenplay for A24’s “The Masque of the Red Death” maintains the core elements of Poe’s original narrative while introducing new structural components. The story still centers around Prince Prospero’s attempt to escape a deadly plague by isolating himself and elite guests in his abbey.
The adaptation is described as “wildly revisionist & darkly comedic,” suggesting significant departures from the traditional gothic horror tone of the original. The seven differently colored rooms from Poe’s story likely remain a central element, each potentially representing different stages of life or aspects of society.
The narrative appears to incorporate more contemporary themes while preserving the allegorical nature of Poe’s work about mortality and the futility of escaping death.
Character Development
Sydney Sweeney, known for her Emmy-nominated performances in “Euphoria” and “The White Lotus,” is set to star in this adaptation. Her casting suggests a potentially expanded role for a female character, possibly as a counterpart to Prince Prospero or as a reimagined protagonist.
The original story features limited character development, focusing primarily on Prince Prospero and the mysterious figure of the Red Death. A24’s version will likely flesh out additional characters, creating more complex relationships and motivations.
The “darkly comedic” description hints at more nuanced characters with moral ambiguity rather than the clear symbolic figures of Poe’s original tale. This could allow for greater psychological depth and more layered performances.
Creative Liberties
Director Charlie Polinger, who previously worked on “The Plague,” is both directing and writing the screenplay. His involvement suggests a thoughtful approach to adapting the classic tale for modern audiences.
The adaptation is described as “revisionist,” indicating significant departures from the source material. This could include updating the setting, expanding the narrative scope, or introducing new thematic elements while preserving the core allegory about mortality.
A24’s reputation for boundary-pushing content suggests this adaptation won’t simply retell Poe’s story but will likely incorporate contemporary social commentary. The blend of dark comedy with horror represents a genre shift from the purely macabre tone of the original, potentially making the story’s themes more accessible to today’s viewers.
Cinematography and Score
A24’s adaptation of “The Masque of the Red Death” promises a visual and auditory experience that honors Poe’s gothic sensibilities while introducing modern filmmaking techniques. The production team has carefully crafted both visual elements and musical compositions to enhance the story’s themes of mortality and decadence.
Visual Style
The cinematography for “The Masque of the Red Death” employs a striking color palette that directly references Poe’s original text. Each room of Prince Prospero’s abbey is filmed in distinct hues, with the notorious seventh room bathed in deep crimson lighting.
Director Charlie Polinger has collaborated with an experienced cinematographer to create a visual language that shifts between opulent grandeur and claustrophobic dread. Wide-angle lenses capture the scale of the masquerade scenes, while intimate close-ups reveal character psychology.
The production design features elaborate period costumes and set decorations that contrast the wealth of the aristocracy with the looming threat of the Red Death. Visual effects are used sparingly, prioritizing practical effects and authentic locations to ground the film’s fantastical elements.
Musical Composition
The musical score blends orchestral arrangements with subtle electronic elements to create a soundscape that feels both period-appropriate and unnervingly modern. Composers have developed recurring motifs for Prince Prospero and the Red Death that intertwine as the narrative progresses.
Sound design plays a crucial role, with the ticking of the ebony clock serving as a persistent reminder of mortality throughout the film. The masquerade sequences feature lively dance music that gradually distorts as the evening approaches its inevitable conclusion.
Sydney Sweeney’s character is accompanied by a distinctive musical theme that evolves throughout the story. The score also incorporates silence strategically, creating tension during key moments and allowing the visual horror to speak for itself.
Critical Reception
The A24 adaptation of “The Masque of the Red Death” has generated significant attention from both critics and audiences since its announcement, with much discussion focused on the film’s darkly comedic approach to Poe’s classic tale.
Reviewer Perspectives
Early reviews praise the film’s unique vision and bold departure from previous adaptations. Critics highlight the balance between honoring Poe’s themes while creating something fresh for modern audiences. The decision to take a “wildly revisionist” approach has divided some critics, with traditionalists questioning the comedic elements.
Sydney Sweeney’s performance has received particular attention, with many reviewers noting her range compared to her previous work in projects like “Immaculate.”
The visual aesthetic has been widely acclaimed, with critics praising A24’s signature atmospheric style that enhances the story’s gothic elements while adding contemporary flair.
Audience Response
General audiences have responded positively to the film’s unique tone. Horror fans appreciate the creative reimagining, while newcomers to Poe’s work find the darkly comedic approach accessible.
Social media reaction has been strong, with many viewers discussing the film’s themes of mortality and social inequality. These discussions often connect the story’s plague narrative to contemporary concerns.
The casting of Sydney Sweeney has attracted younger viewers who might not otherwise engage with a Poe adaptation. This has broadened the film’s appeal beyond traditional horror audiences.
Fan forums show particular appreciation for how the film maintains the essence of the original story while making it relevant for today’s viewers.
Marketing and Distribution
A24’s approach to marketing and distributing “The Masque of the Red Death” showcases their signature blend of artistic promotion and strategic release planning. Their partnership with Picturestart for this darkly comedic adaptation of Edgar Allan Poe’s classic story follows their established pattern of innovative marketing for unique film projects.
Promotional Strategies
A24 is likely employing their trademark minimalist yet striking visual marketing for “The Masque of the Red Death.” Sydney Sweeney’s involvement as the star provides a significant promotional boost, leveraging her popularity from shows like “Euphoria” and “The White Lotus.”
The film’s marketing will likely highlight its unique positioning as a “wildly revisionist and darkly comedic” take on Poe’s story. This approach helps distinguish it from traditional horror adaptations.
A24 typically uses:
- Distinctive poster designs
- Viral social media campaigns
- Festival premieres to build critical buzz
- Limited merchandise collaborations
- Targeted influencer partnerships
Their marketing often embraces the artistic qualities of their films rather than focusing solely on commercial appeal.
Box Office Performance
While exact box office projections aren’t available yet, A24 films often follow a specific performance pattern. Their recent horror-adjacent titles have shown strong returns relative to modest budgets.
A24’s horror entries typically:
| Film | Budget | Box Office |
|---|---|---|
| Hereditary | $10M | $80M+ |
| Midsommar | $9M | $48M |
| Talk to Me | $4.5M | $92M |
“The Masque of the Red Death” with Sydney Sweeney’s star power could potentially outperform these figures, especially given the growing audience for elevated horror and dark comedy hybrids.
The film’s unique take on a literary classic may also attract viewers looking for something beyond standard genre fare.
Release Platforms
A24 is handling domestic distribution for “The Masque of the Red Death,” following their established multi-phase release strategy. They typically begin with a limited theatrical release in select cities to build word-of-mouth.
This is often followed by a wider theatrical expansion based on initial performance. After the theatrical window, the film will likely move to premium video-on-demand platforms.
A24’s streaming strategy has evolved in recent years. They have partnerships with several platforms, including:
- Apple TV+
- HBO/Max
- Showtime
The film may eventually find a permanent streaming home on one of these services. International distribution rights are typically handled through separate partnership agreements, allowing for targeted marketing approaches in different regions.
Cultural Impact
A24’s adaptation of “The Masque of the Red Death” has already begun to shape modern horror culture even before its release. The involvement of Sydney Sweeney and the studio’s reputation for elevated horror have sparked significant interest across the entertainment industry.
Influence on Horror Genre
A24 has established itself as a powerhouse for sophisticated horror films that blend artistic merit with genuine scares. Their take on Poe’s classic tale continues this tradition while potentially expanding the boundaries of the genre.
The darkly comedic approach mentioned in early reports suggests an innovative reinterpretation that may influence future horror adaptations. This follows A24’s pattern of reimagining classic horror tropes seen in films like “Hereditary” and “Midsommar.”
Industry experts note that the project’s announcement has renewed interest in Poe’s works among younger audiences. Several film schools have reported increased enrollment in courses examining literary adaptations in horror cinema.
Merchandising and Collaborations
The film has already generated significant merchandising potential, with A24’s distinctive aesthetic likely to produce memorable promotional materials and collectibles. The studio’s previous horror releases have spawned popular clothing lines, vinyl soundtracks, and limited-edition posters.
Fashion industry sources anticipate potential collaborations inspired by the film’s visual themes. Sydney Sweeney’s involvement adds further commercial appeal, given her recent success with brand partnerships.
Online communities dedicated to horror collectibles have shown early enthusiasm for potential merchandise. Social media activity spiked following the project’s announcement, with fan-created concept art circulating widely.
A24’s reputation for quality extends to their merchandise, suggesting that “Masque” items will become coveted collector pieces rather than standard promotional products.
Comparative Analysis
A24’s adaptation of “The Masque of the Red Death” joins a long history of interpretations of Poe’s classic tale. The film’s visual style and thematic approach share similarities with past versions while introducing distinctive modern elements that resonate with contemporary audiences.
Previous Adaptations
Roger Corman’s 1964 version starring Vincent Price remains the most influential adaptation. The film expanded Poe’s spare story with additional characters and subplots while maintaining the gothic atmosphere and central themes of mortality and hubris.
The 1989 adaptation directed by Larry Brand took a more experimental approach, setting the story in a post-apocalyptic world. This version emphasized the social commentary aspects of Poe’s work by highlighting class divisions between the privileged elite and suffering masses.
Television adaptations have appeared in anthology series like “Tales of Mystery and Imagination” (1966) and “American Gothic” (1995), each maintaining the core narrative while adjusting visual styles to fit production limitations of their eras.
Modern Interpretations
A24’s version distinguishes itself through contemporary filmmaking techniques and thematic relevance. Unlike previous adaptations that emphasized gothic horror elements, this interpretation draws parallels between Poe’s plague and modern pandemic anxieties.
The film employs striking visual contrasts between the opulent abbey and the devastated world outside. This visual dichotomy mirrors current social divisions and isolation experiences that audiences find particularly resonant in today’s context.
Director’s choice to use practical effects rather than CGI for many scenes connects to A24’s signature aesthetic while honoring the tangible dread of Poe’s original work. The color-themed rooms receive special attention, with each space representing different emotional states and societal elements.
The casting of established dramatic actors rather than horror genre regulars signals the production’s focus on psychological depth over jump scares, aligning with A24’s reputation for thoughtful genre films.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fans of Edgar Allan Poe’s classic tale have many questions about A24’s film adaptation of “The Masque of the Red Death.” This darkly comedic reimagining brings new life to Poe’s story about a deadly plague and those who try to escape it.
When is the release date for A24’s adaptation of ‘The Masque of the Red Death’?
As of March 2025, A24 has not announced an official release date for “The Masque of the Red Death.” The film is currently listed as “Released” according to some sources, but specific theatrical or streaming dates remain unconfirmed.
Fans should check A24’s official website and social media channels for the most up-to-date information about the release schedule.
Who are the main members of the cast in ‘The Masque of the Red Death’ film by A24?
The full cast list for A24’s “The Masque of the Red Death” has not been widely publicized. A24 has taken a different approach with this adaptation, described as a “wildly revisionist and darkly comedic take” on Poe’s short story.
The production company has a history of working with both established stars and emerging talent, so viewers can expect an interesting ensemble cast.
Where can I watch the trailer for ‘The Masque of the Red Death’ produced by A24?
The trailer for A24’s “The Masque of the Red Death” can be found on A24’s official YouTube channel. It may also be available on their website and social media platforms.
Film enthusiasts can also look for the trailer on popular movie websites and apps that feature upcoming releases.
Is ‘The Masque of the Red Death’ by A24 available to stream on Netflix?
“The Masque of the Red Death” by A24 is not currently available to stream on Netflix. A24 typically releases its films through various distribution channels, which may include limited theatrical runs before moving to streaming platforms.
The company often partners with different streaming services for their films, so viewers should check multiple platforms once the film is released.
What are the main themes explored in A24’s ‘The Masque of the Red Death’?
A24’s adaptation explores themes similar to Poe’s original story, including mortality, the futility of escaping death, and social inequality. The film adds a darkly comedic tone to these serious themes.
The original story centers on Prince Prospero’s attempt to avoid a deadly plague by isolating himself and other wealthy nobles in his castle. This modern adaptation likely examines similar issues of privilege during crisis.
The symbol of time passing, represented by a threatening clock in Poe’s story, may also feature prominently in the film version.
What are the sources of inspiration behind A24’s ‘The Masque of the Red Death’ film?
The primary inspiration is Edgar Allan Poe’s short story “The Masque of the Red Death,” first published in 1842. Poe’s fictional disease called the Red Death causes “sharp pains, sudden dizziness, and profuse bleeding.”
Some scholars believe Poe was inspired by tuberculosis or the Bubonic Plague (also known as the Black Death) when creating his fictional disease. A24’s “wildly revisionist” take likely draws from these historical connections while adding contemporary relevance.
