One of our favorite movies from Sundance is finally coming to theaters. Roadside Attractions and Saban Films have secured North American rights to BUDDY, the feature debut from filmmaker Casper Kelly. The film is scheduled for a wide theatrical release on September 4, 2026.
Produced by BoulderLight Pictures and Low Spark Films, BUDDY first screened in the Midnight section at the Sundance Film Festival and later appeared in the Festival Favorites section at SXSW, where it drew attention for its unconventional approach to horror storytelling.
The film is set within a children’s television program that takes an unexpected turn, using familiar elements such as songs and classic TV structure before shifting into darker territory. The project blends genre elements with a focus on tone and contrast between nostalgia and disruption.
The cast includes Cristin Milioti, Delaney Quinn, Topher Grace, Keegan-Michael Key, Michael Shannon, and Patton Oswalt.
Kelly, known for projects including Too Many Cooks and Your Pretty Face Is Going to Hell, co-wrote the screenplay with Jamie King. Producing credits include Tyler Davidson, Drew Sykes, Raphael Margules, J.D. Lifshitz, and Tracy Rosenblum.
This one is a cult classic waiting to be born. Buddy is set for a wide theatrical release on September 4, 2026.
