Paolo Strippoli’s ‘The Holy Boy’ Secures North American Deal with Shudder

Following a successful premiere at the Venice Film Festival, Paolo Strippoli’s horror film The Holy Boy has been acquired by Shudder for distribution in North America, the UK, and Ireland. The film made its North American debut at Fantastic Fest, where it received the Next Wave Best Director Award and the Audience Award. It is set to launch on the streaming platform in 2026.

The film features the story of Sergio, played by Michele Riondino, a teacher haunted by his past. He is transferred to Remis, a village touted as the happiest town in Italy. However, beneath the town’s cheerful exterior lies a disturbing reality. Each week, villagers gather to embrace Matteo, portrayed by newcomer Giulio Feltri, a 15-year-old whose touch is said to relieve pain and sorrow. As Sergio investigates the town’s peculiar ritual, he uncovers a dark side to the villagers’ devotion, leading to a confrontation that reveals their vengeful nature.

Director’s Vision and Previous Works

In a statement to Deadline, Strippoli expressed his excitement about the partnership with Shudder, noting, “Shudder is a guiding light in visionary genre cinema, and I am beyond thrilled they will bring The Holy Boy to a wider, passionate audience.” He elaborated on the film’s themes, highlighting its exploration of pain and the lengths people go to avoid it. “We imagined a town that does not exist but could, and a ritual that does not exist but could: an uncanny embrace that takes away all suffering,” he added.

Before The Holy Boy, Strippoli co-directed A Classic Horror Story with Roberto De Feo, which won Best Director at the 67th Taormina Film Festival. He also directed the psychological horror film Piove, which competed at various festivals, including Fantastic Fest and Alice Nella Città.

Shudder’s Commitment to Unique Horror

Samuel Zimmerman, Vice President of Programming at Shudder, shared the platform’s admiration for the film, stating, “We were blown away by The Holy Boy. Paolo Strippoli crafts an eerie and provocative horror film, one that builds to an astonishing finish. We knew instantly this belonged with Shudder.”

As the film prepares for its release, audiences can anticipate a unique blend of horror and thought-provoking themes that delve into the human experience. The acquisition by Shudder marks a significant step for Strippoli’s latest work, promising to captivate both horror enthusiasts and general viewers alike.