Vertical acquires North American rights ahead of 2027 release
Summary
– Norman Reedus stars in the upcoming horror film Pendulum alongside Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Phoebe Dynevor
– Vertical acquired North American distribution rights for the movie
– Pendulum is scheduled for a theatrical release on January 1, 2027
Norman Reedus is returning to the horror genre with a major new film titled Pendulum.
The movie also stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Phoebe Dynevor, and two-time Oscar nominee Jacki Weaver. Vertical has officially acquired North American distribution rights and plans to release the film in theaters on January 1, 2027.
Pendulum marks the directorial debut of Mark Heyman, the BAFTA-nominated writer known for Black Swan. Darren Aronofsky is attached as a producer through Protozoa alongside producers connected to projects such as Longlegs and the X trilogy.
The story follows a married couple who travel to a spiritual retreat in New Mexico after experiencing a traumatic event. As the retreat’s mysterious leader gains influence over the wife, paranoia begins to build within the group about the group’s true intentions.
Joseph Gordon-Levitt plays Patrick while Phoebe Dynevor stars as Abigail. Jacki Weaver portrays the retreat’s unsettling leader, while Norman Reedus is also part of the film’s cast in a currently undisclosed role.
Heyman described Pendulum as a deeply personal horror story inspired by real experiences. Vertical also praised the film, calling it an intense and terrifying debut from the longtime screenwriter.
The production also includes several major names behind the scenes. Sharone Meir serves as cinematographer, while Candyman editor Catrin Hedström and The Night House composer Ben Lovett are also attached.
The project adds another high-profile film role to Reedus’ growing schedule outside The Walking Dead universe. While continuing work tied to Daryl Dixon, Reedus has also expanded further into thriller and horror projects in recent years.
