If you're a fan of Samara Weaving's unforgettable performances in horror hits like Ready or Not and The Babysitter, then get ready to add another must-watch to your list. Her most underrated horror movie has just landed on Shudder, and this hidden gem flew right under the radar when it hit select theaters back in September. Now, it's time for every horror fan to see it. It's the action-horror flick Azrael, and it packs a punch you won’t see coming!
E. L. Katz, who's best known for working on horror series such as Channel Zero, The Haunting of Bly Manor and Teacup, directed this horror feature with Simon Barrett (V/H/S, V/H/S/2, You're Next) writing the script. It had its premiere at the 2024 South by Southwest festival in March before IFC Films and Shudder acquired the North American distribution rights in July and set it for a limited theatrical release in September. However, a Shudder streaming release date wasn't announced until later.
The story is set years after the apocalypse, where we follow a young woman named Azrael who is being relentlessly pursued by a mysterious, mute cult after she escapes their captivity. Once recaptured by the cult's merciless leaders, she is marked for sacrifice to appease a lurking evil deep in the surrounding wilderness. But Azrael is determined to fight for her freedom and survival, no matter the cost.
Weaving stars in the leading role of Azrael. As mentioned above, she starred in other horror films such as Ready or Not and The Babysitter. However, her iconic role as Grace in Ready or Not is what established her as a scream queen. She also played the role of Heather in the first season of the comedy-horror series Ash vs Evil Dead.
Other horror-related projects she starred in were the action-horror flick Mayhem, the comedy-horror The Babysitter: Killer Queen and the slasher Scream VI. She is set to return for the highly anticipated sequel Ready or Not 2. In addition, Vic Carmen Sonne, Nathan Stewart-Jarrett, and Katariina Unt join Weaving in the Azrael cast.
Check out the gripping official trailer below that's packed with explosive action and edge-of-your-seat suspense!
Find out what some critics had to say about this action-horror via Rotten Tomatoes:
"The filmmakers give birth to a new nightmare, one overflowing in possibilities and, it should be noted, several purposefully unanswered questions. Azrael is a blood-soaked blast."Sara Michelle Fetters
"An inventive and exciting blend of folk and survival horror."Katie Rife
Azrael is now streaming on Shudder. Don't forget to check it out!
To stay up to date on all things horror and 1428 Elm, follow our Facebook page and Twitter account!