Cornerstone secures global sales for horror film *When Darkness Loves Us*, starring Emilia Clarke. Based on a cult novella, it hits Cannes.
- April 23, 2026
AceShowbiz - Cornerstone has secured international sales rights for the upcoming horror film When Darkness Loves Us, directed by James Ashcroft. The company will manage sales and distribution worldwide, excluding New Zealand and Australia, and plans to present the film to buyers at the Cannes Film Market.
The movie stars Emilia Clarke, known for her role in Game of Thrones, alongside Marlon Williams (Sweet Tooth), Victoria Pedretti (You), and Natascha McElhone (The Truman Show). Principal photography recently concluded in New Zealand, with producers targeting a U.S. release in 2027.
Based on Elizabeth Engstrom's cult novella from the 1980s, When Darkness Loves Us is described as a psychologically charged horror story. The plot centers on a young woman, portrayed by Clarke, who returns to the surface after surviving 15 years trapped in an underground cave system. She seeks to reclaim the family she believes belongs to her, setting the stage for a haunting narrative.
This film marks a notable addition to the horror genre, combining intense psychological elements with a gripping storyline drawn from a classic source. With its anticipated debut at Cannes and subsequent U.S. release, When Darkness Loves Us is positioned to attract significant attention from horror enthusiasts and international audiences alike.