Video games and the horror genre share a compelling synergy, leading to several chilling digital stories being adapted for live-action films. Well-known franchises like Resident Evil, Silent Hill, and Five Nights at Freddy’s have had varying degrees of success on the big screen. Now, a new contender is set to captivate audiences: The Mortuary Assistant, which is scheduled to debut in theaters sooner than anticipated.
Set for release on February 13th by Epic Pictures and Dread, The Mortuary Assistant revolves around Rebecca Owens, the titular character, who becomes ensnared in a supernatural horror narrative. The original 2022 game allowed players to navigate eerie scenarios and influence the storyline through their choices concerning deceased bodies, becoming a standout title on PC thanks to streamers and gamers who were drawn to its unsettling environment.
In a recent announcement, producer and CEO of Epic Pictures, Patrick Ewald, shared insights on the film adaptation, stating, “With THE MORTUARY ASSISTANT, we’re thrilled to translate one of gaming’s most unnerving experiences into a relentlessly immersive feature film. This is an authentic adaptation grounded in […] the same dread, the same characters, and the same world that made the game so unforgettable.” Ewald emphasized the meticulous effort put into creating a realistic setting, highlighting that a practical set was built to maintain the claustrophobic atmosphere that fans of the game have come to love.
Brian Clarke, the creator of the original game, expressed enthusiasm about the adaptation, noting, “Seeing The Mortuary Assistant make the leap from game to film is incredibly rewarding. […] It’s a unique crossover that bridges two communities of horror fans in a way I’ve always imagined.” Clarke also hinted at the potential for future expansion of the Mortuary universe, which could pave the way for new narratives following the film’s release.
As the anticipation builds for the film’s debut, fans of the game and horror enthusiasts alike are eager to experience this innovative adaptation that promises to deliver tension, dark secrets, and memorable scares. The Mortuary Assistant could very well mark a thrilling new chapter for both gaming and horror cinema.