There’s something about prequels and sequels to the best horror films that just doesn’t sit right with me, and that’s mostly because of the disappointment I felt after watching them Be: First Death. But the trailer for Paramount Plus’ upcoming psychological horror Apartment 7A could be an interesting addition to the history of an iconic 60s horror film.
Starring the lead actress of Inventing Anna and Golden Globe winner Julia Garner, the new Paramount Plus film takes us back to New York City’s Bramford Building, but before the events that unfolded Rosemary’s baby (1968). In preparation for the spooky season, Apartment 7A will be released on September 27 as part of Everything New on Paramount Plus in September 2024 and is one of nine new horror films we’re excited to stream this month.
The unsettling string soundtrack and crisp sound effects bring the trailer to life, drawing on those motifs of suspense pioneered by classic horror films as we watch Garner’s character detect the evil forces around her. As a result, the trailer succeeds in painting the film as a legitimate prequel to an iconic horror, rather than a money-making opportunity, meaning it could be one of the next best Paramount Plus movies.
It is directed by Natalie Erika James, director of the 2020 horror film Relic, who co-wrote the screenplay with Christian White and Skylar James. In addition to the veteran horror director, Apartment 7A is produced by those who brought us A quiet place (2018), with the team of producers John Krasinski, Allyson Seeger and Michael Bay providing their creative input and horror production experience.
Starring Garner, the film will also feature a big-name supporting cast including Dianne Wiest (Edward Scissorhands) and Kevin McNally (Pirates of the Caribbean), as well as performances by Jim Sturgess (Fifty dead men walking) and Kobna Holdbrook-Smith (Wonka).
What is Apartment 7A about?
The year is 1965 and aspiring dancer Terry Gionoffrio (Julia Garner) comes to New York City hoping to fulfill her dream of skyrocketing stardom, but a nearly career-ending injury sets her back. Following her injury, Terry meets a wealthy older couple (Dianne Wiest & Kevin McNally) who welcome her into their home in the Bramford Apartment Building, where Terry eventually moves into apartment 7A.
Bramford resident and renowned Broadway producer Alan Marchand (Jim Sturgess) crosses Terry’s path and offers her a new chance to pursue her dream of becoming a dancer, and things start to fall into place for Terry—or so she thinks. After the events of a night she can’t quite remember, Terry begins to sense that something sinister is lurking in the Bramford building, and she soon begins to question the sacrifices she will have to make for her journey to stardom.
