Though a theatrical release may also be planned, the upcoming Evil Dead reboot, now officially titled Evil Dead Rise, is heading straight to HBO Max.
THR reports that the horror flick is scheduled to shoot in New Zealand next month, with Alyssa Sutherland (The Mist, Vikings) and Lily Sullivan (Picnic and Hanging Rock, Jungle) on board to play the lead roles.
This latest entry in the beloved franchise will ditch the usual forest setting and move the Deadite action to the city, as "two estranged sisters’ reunion is cut short when flesh-possessing demons thrust them into a battle for survival."
Sam Raimi's micro-budget original is still considered one of the best horror movies of all time, with direct sequels Evil Dead 2 and Army of Darkness as well as recent TV show Ash vs. The Evil Dead upping the comedic elements. The well-received 2013 remake was a far more serious affair, but it's not known which direction Rise will head in.
Irish director Lee Cronin (The Hole in the Ground) will helm the movie.
“The Evil Dead movies filled my brain with terror and awe when I first saw them at 9 years old,” said the filmmaker. “I am excited and humbled to be resurrecting the most iconic of evil forces for both the fans and a whole new generation.”
Raimi will exec produce along with Robert Tapert and Bruce Campbell, who will not be reprising the role of Ash this time.