News — Vertical has acquired North American distribution rights to 'PENDULUM', the horror film directorial debut of BAFTA-nominated 'BLACK SWAN' writer Mark Heyman.
The film stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Phoebe Dynevor, Norman Reedus, Jena Malone and Jacki Weaver. Darren Aronofsky produces through Protozoa, alongside Jacob Jaffke and Élan Klein Jaffke for Motel Mojave, Will Greenfield, Mark Heyman and Dave Caplan for C2.
Vertical is setting 'PENDULUM' for a wide North American release on 1 January 2027.
Synopsis: 'PENDULUM' follows married couple Patrick and Abigail, played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Phoebe Dynevor, as they travel to a new-age retreat in New Mexico after a traumatic event.
Patrick is willing to do anything to help his wife, but he becomes increasingly distrustful of the retreat’s enigmatic leader, played by Jacki Weaver, as Abigail begins to fall under her influence. As paranoia builds, the couple must decide whether the group’s spiritual practices offer genuine healing or hide a disturbing truth.
The supporting cast includes Norman Reedus and Jena Malone.
Writer & Director: Mark Heyman
Cast: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Phoebe Dynevor, Norman Reedus, Jena Malone, Jacki Weaver
Producers: Darren Aronofsky, Jacob Jaffke, Élan Klein Jaffke, Will Greenfield, Mark Heyman, Dave Caplan
North American Distributor: Vertical
International Sales: Black Bear
Genre: Horror
Release Date: 1 January 2027, North America
Heyman described 'PENDULUM' as “a deeply personal film” and said it was “a dream come true” to see it released theatrically with Vertical.
Vertical Partner Peter Jarowey said the company was proud to partner with the producers and described the film as “an impressive, terrifying debut” from Mark Heyman.
The North American distribution deal was negotiated by Peter Jarowey and SVP of Acquisitions Tony Piantedosi on behalf of Vertical, with UTA Independent Film Group, CAA Media Finance and WME Independent representing the filmmakers.
