The world of horror storytelling is about to get a fresh twist with Gary Dauberman's Coin Operated taking on Nat Cassidy's chilling novella, 'Rest Stop.' This project is a fascinating blend of literary adaptation and cinematic potential, and I'm excited to delve into the details and explore what makes it so intriguing.
The Story Behind the Story
'Rest Stop' is a horror novella that follows a young musician's terrifying ordeal. Locked in a gas station bathroom, our protagonist faces a dual threat: the unseen assailant outside and the creeping horrors within. It's a tale that plays with psychological torment and intense, visceral moments.
Extreme Horror, or a Different Kind of Thrill?
Nat Cassidy describes the novella as a blend of 'Green Room' and 'Gerald's Game,' two iconic horror works. While Cassidy acknowledges that 'Rest Stop' doesn't reach the same extremes as some 'extreme' horror stories, it's a testament to the power of suggestion and psychological horror. This approach, in my opinion, can often be more effective and lasting than graphic gore.
Dauberman's Take: A Perfectly Terrifying Experience
Gary Dauberman, known for his work in the horror genre, sees 'Rest Stop' as a unique blend of elements. He compares it to the junk food aisle of a sketchy gas station, suggesting a diverse and potentially deadly experience. The novella's relentless pace, character moments, and squirm-inducing sequences make it a perfect candidate for a terrifying film adaptation.
Cassidy's Credentials
Nat Cassidy is no stranger to horror. With a USA Today bestseller and Bram Stoker Award nomination under his belt, his works include 'Mary,' 'When the Wolf Comes Home,' and 'Nestlings.' His plays have been produced across the country, including Off-Broadway and the Kennedy Center. Cassidy's diverse experience in the horror genre, from literature to screen, makes him an intriguing choice for adapting his own work.
Coin Operated's Vision
Coin Operated, under a production deal with Sony/Screen Gems, is no stranger to adapting video games for the big screen. Their first project was 'Until Dawn,' with David F. Sandberg directing and Dauberman as producer and writer. With upcoming films like 'Passenger' and 'The Revenge of La Llorona,' Coin Operated is establishing itself as a force in the horror genre.
A Diverse Development Slate
Coin Operated's development slate is a mix of original concepts and adaptations. They're rebooting the '90s slasher movie 'Urban Legend' for a modern audience, adapting the award-winning video game 'The Medium,' and bringing Joe Hill's short story 'Ushers' to life. They're also developing 'He Never Dies,' written and to be directed by David Yarovesky.
Final Thoughts
'Rest Stop' promises to be a unique and terrifying experience, and I'm intrigued to see how Dauberman and Cassidy's collaboration will bring this novella to life on the big screen. With Coin Operated's track record and the diverse range of projects in their development slate, it's an exciting time for horror fans. Personally, I can't wait to see how this story unfolds and what new heights of terror it will reach.
