Horror filmmaking sensation Alice Maio Mackay (Bad Girl Boogey, T-Blockers, Satranic Panic, Carnage for Christmas) is officially in production on her sixth feature, the supernatural horror The Serpent's Skin, with Dark Star Pictures set to produce.
The Serpent's Skin stars Alexandra McVicker (HBO’s Vice Principals), Scott Major (Heartbreak High), Charlotte Chimes (Neighbours), Jordan Dulieu (Before Dawn), with cameos from filmmaker Joe Lynch (Mayhem, Suitable Flesh), Betsey Brown (Assholes), and Drew Droege (Heathers).
Per an official press release, The Serpent’s Skin, now in production in Australia, marks an exciting evolution in Mackay’s work, incorporating a darker tone and larger scope while maintaining her unique mix of wit and genre revisionism through a trans lens.
A full synopsis reads as follows:
The film follows two young women, played by McVicker and Avalon Fast, who form a romantic bond after discovering they have supernatural powers. Their insecurities unknowingly release a demon, which possesses one of their exes and begins feeding on their friends. As the bodies pile up, it becomes up to the women to face their pasts and stop the growing evil.
Emmy-nominated filmmaker Vera Drew (The People's Joker) has joined the team as the film's editor again, after previously lending her skills to Carnage for Christmas.
Michael Repsch of Dark Star Pictures had this to say of the recent acquisition:
We are thrilled to be producing The Serpent’s Skin with Alice Maio Mackay. Alice has a rare ability to push the boundaries of horror while infusing it with wit, depth, and a fresh perspective […] This film is a bold evolution of her work, and we’re excited to bring her unique vision to life. At Dark Star, we are always eager to support films that challenge conventions and captivate audiences, and The Serpent’s Skin is a perfect fit for our portfolio.
Releasing her first feature at the age of just 16, Mackay has quickly established herself as one of the brightest names in modern horror and particularly queer horror. Being trans herself, Mackay consistently elevates and uplifts trans voices and narratives in her work.
As big fans of Mackay and her work, we'll be watching The Serpent's Skin very closely and will bring you all the updates as they slither in.
