A24 has left audiences on the edge of their seats with the release of a chilling teaser for its latest thriller, Opus, set to premiere in cinemas this March.
The esteemed production company unveiled a two-minute glimpse of the highly anticipated horror film on Tuesday (January 21), much to the delight of fans. Those who love FX’s gripping series The Bear will be excited to hear that Ayo Edebiri is at the forefront of the cast.
Edebiri steps into the shoes of Ariel Ecton, a budding writer who receives an invitation to a “once-in-a-lifetime” event thrown by an enigmatic popstar, unseen by the world for three decades.
The suspenseful trailer shows Edebiri’s character being personally invited to spend a weekend at a secluded estate with the reclusive music legend. Initially taken aback, the eager journalist soon sets off for the mysterious getaway.
As the trailer unfolds, viewers follow the protagonist to the remote retreat where she encounters a host of “creepy” characters. Joining the TV sensation are acclaimed actors John Malkovich and Juliette Lewis, both Oscar nominees, reports the Mirror.
The star-studded cast also features Rosario Dawson (Dopesick), Murray Bartlett (The White Lotus), and Amber Midthunder (Legion).
Social media buzzed with anticipation as the trailer hit online platforms. An enthusiast on X, previously known as Twitter, wrote: “Already obsessed.” While another fan declared: “AYO EDEBIRI IN OPUS IS WHAT THE WORLD NEEDS.” (sic)
Another cinephile commented humorously: “This movie sounds CREEPY! John Malkovich is already giving me chills. Definitely adding Opus to my watchlist.” (sic)
One apprehensive viewer shared their worries about watching Opus in the cinema: “Opus is gonna scare the s*** out of me bc I hate watching horror movies in the theatres.” (sic)
However, they also admitted that their support for the film’s star would override their fears, adding: “But for Ayo I am willing to risk it all.”
On Reddit, praise was heaped upon the cast of Opus, with comments such as: “Sign me up right now. Hell of a cast.” (sic).
Doubts about the originality of Opus’ storyline emerged among film enthusiasts, as one indicated: “I feel like I’ve seen this movie before.”
This sentiment was echoed by several other observant fans, who noted similarities to other films like Blink Twice, The Menu and Midsommar.
Still, the movie’s high-calibre cast has persuaded viewers to remain open-minded, with one Reddit user revealing: “I was expecting something a bit more original based on A24’s teasers. But this cast is so stacked, I’ll definitely be there.”
A24s Opus, directed by newcomer Mark Anthony Green, is the company’s inaugural horror venture for 2025.
The flick is scheduled to make its debut at the Sundance Film Festival and is set for a US theatrical release on March 14, with further announcements pending for the UK premiere date.
The full synopsis of the thriller reveals: “A young writer is invited to the remote compound of a legendary pop star who mysteriously disappeared 30 years ago. Surrounded by the star’s cult of sycophants and intoxicated journalists, she finds herself in the middle of his twisted plan.”