In the ever-evolving landscape of modern horror, few films capture the raw, unfiltered terror of classic 1970s exploitation cinema quite like DOLLY, the upcoming feature from director Rod Blackhurst. Set to open exclusively in theaters on March 6, 2026, via Independent Film Company and Shudder, this gritty survival horror blends the visceral brutality of backwoods slashers with daring elements reminiscent of New French Extremity. The result is a disturbing, practical-effects-driven tale that promises to unsettle audiences long after the credits roll.
At the heart of DOLLY is Macy (played by Fabianne Therese), a young woman embarking on what should be a romantic hiking getaway with her boyfriend Chase (Seann William Scott). Chase, a single dad, has plans to propose, but their idyllic outing turns deadly when they stumble into the domain of a monstrous, doll-obsessed figure. Macy is abducted by this deranged, monster-like captor—known as Dolly—who intends to raise her as their own child. What follows is a harrowing fight for survival in an isolated, claustrophobic world of twisted maternal instincts and unrelenting violence.
Blackhurst, known for his work on projects like Here Alone, Amanda Knox, and Blood for Dust, co-wrote the screenplay with Brandon Weavil. The story expands on their 2022 short film Babygirl, evolving it into a full-length feature that pays homage to genre classics while pushing boundaries. Early festival screenings at Fantastic Fest, Sitges, and others have drawn comparisons to The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, with its hulking antagonist, gritty rural setting, and relentless tension. Reviewers have praised its “violent backwards slasher” style, practical gore, and a sense of handmade, regional dread that feels authentic to the woods.
The film’s standout performance comes from Max the Impaler (a professional wrestler known as “The Non-Binary Nightmare”) in the title role. Portrayed as a hulking, largely non-verbal figure in a shattered porcelain doll mask and tattered dress, Dolly is both childlike and terrifying—a maternal monster who treats victims like playthings. Max’s physical presence and eerie mannerisms have earned rave notices, with many calling it a memorable debut that adds layers of unsettling whimsy to the horror.
Supporting the leads is a solid ensemble: Ethan Suplee (Mallrats, American Pie series connections), Russ Tiller, Kate Cobb, and Michalina Scorzelli. Seann William Scott, best known for comedic roles in American Pie and The Righteous Gemstones, steps into more dramatic territory as the concerned partner whose fate sets the nightmare in motion. Therese, seen in films like John Dies at the End and Starry Eyes, delivers a fierce, survivalist turn as Macy—balancing vulnerability with badass determination in a role that echoes final girls of yesteryear.
DOLLY runs approximately 83-84 minutes and emphasizes practical effects, atmospheric location work, and a deliberate retro aesthetic that avoids over-reliance on CGI. It’s described as a “daring blend” of old-school American grindhouse horror and extreme European influences, resulting in something both nostalgic and shockingly fresh. Festival reactions highlight its bizarre humor amid the gore, making it a potential cult favorite for fans of unapologetic, boundary-pushing genre fare.
Mark your calendars for March 6, 2026, when DOLLY invades theaters. In a world saturated with jump-scare-heavy franchises, this film reminds us why raw, character-driven terror still cuts deepest. Mother knows best… or does she? Prepare for a horrifying playdate you won’t forget.
