How Godzilla, Parenthood and Getting Hit By a Car Led Adam Wingard to ‘Onslaught’

Adam Wingard, the director behind the hit action film "Onslaught," has returned to his roots after a series of blockbuster productions. Born in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, a so-called "secret city" where the Manhattan Project was developed, Wingard's work has often reflected the conspiratorial undertones of his hometown. Known for his genre-blending films like "Godzilla vs. Kong," Wingard's latest project, "Onslaught," sees him returning to his earlier style of smaller-scale, conspiracy-focused movies.

The film follows Celeste (Adria Arjona), a single mother and former soldier stranded in the New Mexico town of Moriarty. Using jack-o-lanterns for target practice, Celeste's life becomes entangled with a Nazi scientist and a program to turn soldiers into unstoppable killing machines. Wingard, who had previously worked on a third "Godzilla x Kong" film, faced a difficult decision when Legendary Studios wanted to move forward with the franchise.

After considering his options, including another "Godzilla" movie, a "Blair Witch" adaptation, and other big-budget projects, Wingard ultimately chose to make "Onslaught." The decision was influenced by life events, including becoming a parent and getting hit by a car while working on "Face/Off 2." This experience crystallized Wingard's desire to create personal, legacy movies that truly reflect his unique filmmaking style.

"Onslaught" serves as a platform for Wingard to explore themes of parenthood, dysfunction, and genre mash-ups, while also paying homage to his hometown and the conspiratorial undertones that have shaped his career.