In a move that has sent ripples through the horror community, the untitled genre feature from director Tommy Wirkola has officially shifted its distribution home. According to a report from The Hollywood Reporter, the project—which stars Bridgerton breakout Phoebe Dynevor—has moved from Sony Pictures to Netflix. Previously scheduled for a wide theatrical release this summer under the working title Shiver, the film will now bypass the multiplex in favor of a digital premiere on the world’s largest streaming platform.
From Theatrical Heights to Streaming Sovereignty
The transition from a major studio theatrical slate to a streaming giant like Netflix is always a topic of intense discussion in the industry. While some might see the loss of a theatrical window as a blow, for the horror genre, Netflix has often proven to be a powerhouse for visibility. Sony originally had high hopes for the film to dominate the mid-summer horror slot, but sources suggest that the landscape of the 2026 summer box office is becoming increasingly crowded with tentpole sequels.
By moving to Netflix, the untitled Wirkola project gains immediate access to a global audience across 190 countries. For a director like Tommy Wirkola, whose work often thrives on word-of-mouth and cult enthusiasm, this could be the perfect ecosystem. Netflix has a history of turning niche horror titles into viral sensations—look no further than the success of the Fear Street trilogy or Bird Box. The move suggests that Netflix is doubling down on its commitment to high-concept, star-driven horror as it enters the second half of the decade.
The Wirkola Factor: What to Expect
Tommy Wirkola is a name that commands respect among horror hounds. The Norwegian filmmaker first burst onto the scene with the Nazi-zombie cult classic Dead Snow and later brought a dark, visceral energy to the mainstream with Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters and the holiday-slasher hit Violent Night. Wirkola is known for his ability to blend high-octane action with gruesome practical effects and a wickedly dark sense of humor.
While plot details for the Phoebe Dynevor-led film remain tightly under wraps, the previous title Shiver hints at something potentially more atmospheric than Wirkola’s usual blood-soaked fare. However, knowing his track record, fans can likely expect a creative subversion of genre tropes. Whether it’s a creature feature, a psychological thriller, or a supernatural haunt, Wirkola’s involvement ensures a level of technical craft and genre literacy that sets it apart from standard streaming fare.
Phoebe Dynevor's Genre Evolution
For lead actress Phoebe Dynevor, this film represents a significant step in her post-Bridgerton career. After proving her dramatic chops in the corporate thriller Fair Play, Dynevor is clearly looking to establish herself as a versatile leading lady in the genre space. Stepping into a Tommy Wirkola film requires a specific kind of intensity, and horror fans are eager to see how she handles the physical and emotional demands of a high-stakes horror narrative. Her involvement adds a layer of prestige to the project that likely made it an attractive acquisition for Netflix.
A Summer of Chills on the Small Screen
The loss of a theatrical release for Shiver (or whatever it ends up being called) is certainly a disappointment for those who love the communal experience of a jump-scare in a dark theater. However, the pivot ensures that the film won't get lost in a sea of summer blockbusters. Instead, it can serve as a centerpiece for Netflix’s summer horror programming, potentially launching with the kind of marketing blitz that only the "Big N" can provide.
As of now, neither Sony nor Netflix has commented on the specific reasons for the move, though it is often a matter of internal scheduling and financial optimization. What remains clear is that the hype for this collaboration has not dimmed. With a visionary director at the helm and a rising star in front of the camera, this film remains one of our most anticipated watches of 2026. Stay tuned to ScreamDesk as we await the first official teaser and a confirmed release date.