Ella Hunt Enters a Nightmare: Conjuring Writers Unleash 'Bella'

Ella Hunt to Star in Horror-Thriller 'Bella,' Launching 'Conjuring' Duo's New Production Banner

Ella Hunt, known for her roles in "Dickinson" and Kevin Costner's "Horizon: An American Saga," is set to headline the upcoming horror-thriller "Bella," marking the inaugural project for Hayes Brothers Films, the newly formed production company from "The Conjuring" writers Chad and Carey W. Hayes. The announcement coincides with Red Sea Media launching world sales for the film at this week's American Film Market (AFM).

Ella Hunt Enters a Nightmare: Conjuring Writers Un...

"Bella," penned by Chris Grillot, will be directed by Dylan Hayes, Chad's son, making his feature directorial debut after a series of successful short films. The Hayes brothers, responsible for crafting the chilling narratives of the first two "Conjuring" films, which amassed a combined $650 million at the box office, are producing alongside Dylan Hayes, Mandy June Turpin of Iron North Productions, Daniel Ragussis of Atomic Features, and Todd Slater of Convoke Media.

The film's plot remains largely under

The film's plot remains largely under wraps, but Hunt's statement hints at a story exploring the psychological struggles of a young woman navigating the pressures of toxic beauty standards, demanding parental expectations, and the world of pageantry. Hunt expressed her excitement about delving into the complex mother-daughter dynamic central to the narrative.

The Hayes brothers, whose credits also include "House of Wax" and "The Reaping," conveyed their enthusiasm for launching their new banner with "Bella," emphasizing the script's exceptional quality. "Since 'The Conjuring,' we've read hundreds of scripts to consider producing, but [Chris Grillot's] exceptional writing talent convinced us that this was the one," they stated.

The project is currently in the process of casting additional roles, with Chelsea Block and Marison Roncali leading the casting efforts. A shoot date has yet to be determined. Financing and sales were negotiated by Roman Kopelevich for Red Sea Media and Todd Slater for the filmmakers. The film is being produced in association with Kontakto Films, with Isabel Echeverry of Kontakto and Ricky Russert of Atomic Features serving as executive producers.

"Bella" promises a fresh take on the horror genre, blending psychological thrills with timely themes of societal pressures and familial relationships. With a talented cast and a creative team spearheaded by the seasoned horror veterans behind "The Conjuring," the film is poised to make a significant impact on the genre landscape. The film is represented by UTA and United Agents. Daniel Ragussis and Atomic Features are represented by 3B Law. Grillot is repped by Navigation Media Group, CAA, and Goodman Genow.