Black Mandala has released the official trailer for 'THE SHUG', a 2026 British folk horror creature feature from director Martin J. Pickering.
Inspired by alleged real-life sightings and a recorded interview with a woman who claims to have encountered the legendary Shug Monkey, 'THE SHUG' brings the folklore into a modern British countryside setting.
The film follows John, an alcoholic still haunted by a violent encounter with the creature during his teenage years. When reports of “The Shug” begin to surface again across the countryside, John is forced to confront the nightmare he has spent decades trying to forget.
As sightings intensify, John joins forces with journalist Alice Bowmer and paranormal YouTuber The Hobbo Adventurer. Together, they investigate the growing reports and discover that the truth behind the legend may be darker, and more personal, than they expected.
'THE SHUG' explores folklore, trauma, family breakdown and the long-term effects of a past that refuses to stay buried.
Directed by Martin J. Pickering, 'THE SHUG' stars Nicholas Clarke, Alice Henley, Mae Sutton, Dean Kilbey, Jack Armstrong, Jason Hall and Funso Foluso-Henry.
The script is by Martin J. Pickering and Matt Bowmer, with cinematography by Martin J. Pickering and music by Robin Sturgess and Mark Ayling. The film is produced by Martin J. Pickering, Emily Pickering and Robert Tams.
Awards include Best Indie Film at Boston Indie Film Festival, Best Film at Horror Screening Festival Bloody Mirror, and Best Screenplay plus Best Practical or Visual FX at Catacombs Film Festival.
Worldwide sales are handled by Black Mandala.
🎬 Watch the official trailer for 'THE SHUG' on BritFlicks.
