Josh Ruben Takes a Dark Turn: 'Heart Eyes' Director Tackles Wilderness Horror

Josh Ruben Takes a Dark Turn: 'Heart Eyes' Director Tackles Wilderness Horror
Movies & TV Series 19 November 2025

Josh Ruben Sets Sights on Paramount's 'Wilderness Reform' After 'Heart Eyes' Success

Fresh off the buzz of his romantic slasher, 'Heart Eyes', director Josh Ruben is already lining up his next terrifying adventure. This time, he's heading to Paramount Pictures to helm 'Wilderness Reform', a horror flick that promises to be anything but a relaxing nature retreat.

Josh Ruben Takes a Dark Turn: 'Heart Eyes' Directo...

Ruben, who clearly has a knack for blending horror with other genres, made a splash earlier this year with 'Heart Eyes', a Screen Gems release that raked in over $33 million globally and has found a second life on Netflix. I have to admit, the premise alone – a Valentine's Day masked killer mistaking coworkers for lovers – had me hooked.

But before 'Heart Eyes', Ruben had

But before 'Heart Eyes', Ruben had already established himself as a horror-comedy director to watch. His previous efforts, 'Werewolves Within' and 'Scare Me', were both critical darlings, showcasing his talent for crafting genuinely funny and frightening stories. 'Werewolves Within', in particular, struck a chord with audiences, even snagging a Midseason Hollywood Critics Association Award.

For 'Wilderness Reform', Ruben will be working with a script draft by Steve Desmond and Michael Sherman, the duo behind M. Night Shyamalan’s anxiety-inducing 'Knock at the Cabin'. Honestly, with that pedigree, I'm already expecting a nail-biting experience.

Lindsey Beer, a rising force in Hollywood, is producing the film through her production company, Lab Brew, which has a first-look deal with Paramount. Beer herself is no stranger to the horror genre, with her recent directorial debut, 'Pet Semetary: Bloodlines,' shattering streaming records. Talk about a powerhouse team!

Beer's plate is overflowing, with projects

Beer's plate is overflowing, with projects like 'American Girl' with Mattel Films and a 'Hello Kitty' film in the works. She's also tackling a reimagining of 'The Munsters' with James Wan – a project I'm personally incredibly excited about.

Scott Glassgold is also producing through his 12:01 Films. Launched just last year, 12:01 Films has already made a significant impact, quickly establishing itself as a company to watch.

Ruben's involvement adds another layer of intrigue to 'Wilderness Reform'. Given his knack for finding the humor within the horror, I'm expecting a film that's both genuinely scary and surprisingly witty. What the wilderness reform is, specifically, remains a mystery for now. But rest assured, as soon as we hear more about it – plot details, casting announcements, anything – we'll be right here to share the chills and thrills.

N
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Nicole Clark

Entertainment journalist covering films, TV shows, and streaming content.

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