Nicolas Curcio’s feature horror thriller Play House is set to make its world premiere at Fantastic Fest 2026 this September. The film, co-written by Curcio and Kirby Gladstein, centers on a desperate young man who attempts to reclaim his past by renovating a crumbling house. His goal is a last-ditch effort to win back his ex-girlfriend, but the reconciliation attempt takes a sinister turn after he discovers a collection of forgotten VHS tapes.
According to HorrorFuel, the tapes contain episodes of a strange, unaired television show from decades past. As the protagonist becomes increasingly fixated on the footage, the dark history of the abandoned series surfaces. This supernatural element slowly bleeds into his physical reality, threatening to destroy both him and his final chance at love. The narrative explores themes of obsession, lost media, desperation, and lingering supernatural decay.
The production features a core cast led by Will Harrison, with supporting performances from Jessica Sula, Jordan Gonzalez, and character actor James Urbaniak. Producers at Divide/Conquer, Chroma, and Skinny Ghost are supporting the film. HorrorFuel describes the project as a uniquely claustrophobic analog horror experience for genre enthusiasts. Attendees at Fantastic Fest will be the first audience to see the film.
No specific release date beyond the festival premiere has been announced. The film remains in the production and distribution phase, with the festival serving as its initial public introduction.