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A “smart house” is not a safe house in “HELD”; trailer, poster, release date revealed

Tuesday, March 2, 2021 | News

By MICHAEL GINGOLD

A hi-tech security system proves to provide anything but in the film that’s coming next month.

Magnet Releasing is bringing HELD to theaters and VOD April 9. The film was directed by Chris Lofing and Travis Cluff (THE GALLOWS) from a script by Jill Awbrey, who also stars alongside Bart Johnson. The synopsis: “In HELD, Emma [Awbrey] and Henry’s [Bart Johnson] marriage is losing its spark. In an effort to reconnect, they vacation to a remote high-end rental, complete with automated smart house features and integrated security. However, after suspecting a nighttime intruder they decide to flee, only to become forcibly trapped inside by the automated security system. Emitting from the house, an unknown ‘Voice’ watches their every move through an array of hidden cameras, revealing an intimate and unsettling knowledge of their relationship. While the situation grows increasingly brutal, Emma and Henry must work together to uncover the truth and find a way out before it’s too late.”

“We know what it’s like to be given a shot in an industry that is so competitive–where newcomers are often overlooked,” say Lofing and Cluff. “We’re proud to bring Jill’s unique vision to life. Her story is empowering, original and terrifying. We’re thrilled to be working with Magnet to bring HELD to the world and look forward to thrilling audiences as well.”

“Chris Lofing and Travis Cluff have delivered a frighteningly creepy vision,” adds Magnolia president Eamonn Bowles. “You’ll never look at a ‘smart’ home in the same way again.”

Michael Gingold
Michael Gingold (RUE MORGUE's Head Writer) has been covering the world of horror cinema for over three decades, and in addition to his work for RUE MORGUE, he has been a longtime writer and editor for FANGORIA magazine and its website. He has also written for BIRTH.MOVIES.DEATH, SCREAM, IndieWire.com, TIME OUT, DELIRIUM, MOVIEMAKER and others. He is the author of the AD NAUSEAM books (1984 Publishing) and THE FRIGHTFEST GUIDE TO MONSTER MOVIES (FAB Press), and he has contributed documentaries, featurettes and liner notes to numerous Blu-rays, including the award-winning feature-length doc TWISTED TALE: THE UNMAKING OF "SPOOKIES" (Vinegar Syndrome).