Pendulum horror – Misryoum reports Vertical acquired U.S. rights for Pendulum, a New Mexico horror debut starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Phoebe Dynevor, set for 2027 theaters.
A new horror movie pitch has suddenly turned into a major U.S. distribution headline: Misryoum reports that the film “Pendulum,” starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Phoebe Dynevor, has secured a North American deal.
Vertical has acquired the rights for North America and is preparing the movie for a wide release on January 1, 2027. The timing signals confidence that the thriller can draw viewers during the post-holiday stretch, when audiences often search for big, conversation-starting releases.
Misryoum also notes that “Pendulum” marks director Mark Heyman’s debut, with Heyman writing the screenplay after gaining recognition for major genre work. The cast adds further weight to the buzz: Norman Reedus and two-time Oscar nominee Jacki Weaver appear alongside Gordon-Levitt and Dynevor.
In the story, a married couple travels to a New Mexico retreat seeking help after a traumatic experience.. What begins as a promise of healing quickly darkens as trust fractures. paranoia grows. and the couple is forced to question whether the retreat’s spiritual practices are truly restorative or something far more dangerous.
This is the kind of premise horror thrives on: it blends emotional stakes with an atmosphere that tightens around the characters, turning therapy-like settings into psychological traps.
Misryoum reports that the film is produced by Darren Aronofsky through Protozoa, with additional production handled by Motel Mojave and C2. International sales are being represented by Black Bear, while the acquisition negotiations were handled by deal teams on both sides.
Beyond the performances. the production team behind “Pendulum” includes talent across key craft roles. from cinematography and editing to production design. costume design. casting. and the film’s music.. For audiences. that combination matters because modern horror often succeeds or fails on execution. pace. and the ability to make dread feel inevitable.
At a time when audiences are increasingly drawn to thrillers that feel personal and unsettling, “Pendulum” has the ingredients for broad appeal: recognizable stars, a claustrophobic setup, and a mystery built for word-of-mouth.
As the U.S. release approaches, Misryoum will be watching whether this film’s mix of psychological tension and spiritual unease becomes the kind of horror that spreads quickly before opening day.