By MICHAEL GINGOLD
It turns out the surreal body-horror cult classic had a basis in psychological fact.
Uncork’d Entertainment gave RUE MORGUE the exclusive word that it has picked up distribution rights in the U.S., Canada, UK/Ireland and Australia/New Zealand for THE DARKSIDE OF SOCIETY. The documentary, directed by Larry Wade Carrell, will be released on digital platforms May 13; it had its world premiere at the Sitges festival and screened at London’s FrightFest. It offers a penetrating look at the genesis of Brian Yuzna’s SOCIETY, about a young man discovering the grotesque secrets of his wealthy Beverly Hills family and neighbors.
According to the distributor, “When SOCIETY first hit screens in 1989, its surreal and grotesque portrayal of elite depravity stunned audiences and secured its place as a horror essential. But while the film’s infamous ‘shunting’ scene left an indelible mark on genre fans, its writer–then known as Woody Keith–was enduring a very real psychological unraveling behind the scenes.
“Today, he is Zeph E. Daniel, and for the first time, he shares his chilling truth. Far from a nostalgic celebration, THE DARKSIDE OF SOCIETY explores Daniel’s revelation that the film’s twisted plot was more autobiographical than he ever intended–a subconscious manifestation of repressed childhood trauma. THE DARKSIDE OF SOCIETY features never-before-heard accounts from Daniel, rare behind-the-scenes insights, and a haunting new perspective on a film that shocked the world.”
Carrell and Daniel are partners at production outfit Crazed House, which previously created the award-winning thriller GIRL NEXT and the recently released THE QUANTUM DEVIL–installments of their ongoing “Quantum Quartet” film series. Uncork’d president Keith Leopard says, “With built-in appeal for horror fans, cult movie lovers, and documentary audiences alike, THE DARKSIDE OF SOCIETY delivers shocking revelations and a fresh perspective on a beloved genre classic. Zeph E. Daniel’s story is as unsettling as the film itself–a fascinating and deeply personal look at the creation of one of horror’s most unforgettable cult films. We’re excited to bring this revealing documentary to audiences everywhere.”
