Salem House Films and Vantage Media have announced the upcoming release of the horror feature Popeye the Slayer Man, sailing into theaters and on VOD on March 21, 2025. Directed by Robert Michael Ryan from a screenplay by John Doolan (Remains), the film explores a grim urban legend tied to an abandoned spinach canning factory.
Co-produced by Salem House Films, Millman Productions, Ron Lee Productions, and Otsego Media, Popeye the Slayer Man draws on practical effects to evoke a visceral feeling reminiscent of classic horror from the ‘70s and ‘80s. The story follows a group of friends who enter a deserted facility to document the mythical “Sailor Man,” only to discover the legend is more real than they imagined.
Director Ryan notes that the film has gained attention since its announcement in November 2024, stating, “We went old-school with this movie, using practical effects for the horror.” Producer Jeff Miller adds, “Grab a can of spinach, sit back, and enjoy!” VMI Worldwide COO and Head of Acquisitions Jessica Russo confirmed the distribution agreement, highlighting the film’s dark reimagining of a beloved icon.
Popeye the Slayer Man, docks in theaters
and on VOD on March 21, 2025.
Norman Gidney is the founder and editor-in-chief of HorrorBuzz, which he launched in 2015 to cover everything that goes bump in the night: horror films, haunts, books, games, and the people who make them. He also runs The Screaming Room Film Festival and hosts the Horror Movie Night series at The Frida Cinema in Santa Ana, California.
