Larry Fessenden is a household name in the indie horror scene, known for his work both behind and in front of the camera. With his latest film, Blackout, hitting screens today, io9 had the opportunity to sit down with him and dive into his new release and his storied career.
In a recent interview with io9, Fessenden shared his thoughts on the similarities between True Detective’s Night Country and his film The Last Winter, as well as his hopes for the upcoming adaptation of the popular horror game Until Dawn. While he may not have a preference between directing and acting, Fessenden’s passion for storytelling shines through in both mediums.
Having founded his production company in the 1980s, Fessenden has witnessed the evolution of indie filmmaking over the years. He discussed the challenges facing independent filmmakers in 2024, particularly in terms of financing and distribution in the digital age.
When it comes to Blackout, Fessenden’s approach to blending classic creature-feature elements with indie drama sensibilities reflects his unique perspective on the horror genre. He explained that for him, monsters are a representation of the darkness that lurks in everyday life, and his films aim to capture the nuance and subtlety of those experiences.
With environmental themes present in both The Last Winter and Blackout, Fessenden’s work continues to explore the intersection between horror and real-world issues. For him, the genre offers a platform to delve into deeper themes while still delivering the thrills and chills that fans love.