TIFF may have just unveiled the next big horror hit after 'Obsession' —and Blumhouse paid $10M to get it
Following a breakout run at TIFF 2026, Joshua Giuliano’s "River" landed a massive $10M deal with Universal and Blumhouse, signaling horror's next big theatrical hit after "Obsession."
The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) might have just discovered the next major horror blockbuster, as horror fans flocked to "River" upon its debut at Midnight Madness. The film, directed by Joshua Giuliano, is a sleek slasher set in a river as two siblings prepare to bury their father's ashes. With Jessica Rothe leading the cast, who is already known for her lead role in *Happy Death Day*, "River" generated an impressive 93% on Rotten Tomatoes during the festival.
Its raw reception led to a significant shift in release plans, with Universal Pictures and Blumhouse-Atomic Monster securing a full theatrical release for the directorial debut, paying upwards of $10 million. This acquisition is one of the largest in TIFF 2026 history, highlighting the genre's willingness to take risks on small-scale productions, first-time filmmakers, and daring ideas.
While it remains too early to determine if "River" will achieve the same box office success as *Obsession*, the film's electric performance at TIFF suggests it has the potential to become a breakout hit among horror fans.
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