IFC Films and Shudder, AMC Networks’ specialized service for horror and thriller content, have announced their acquisition of U.S. rights to Dangerous Animals, the upcoming horror-thriller from director Sean Byrne (The Loved Ones, The Devil’s Candy). Written by Nick Lepard, the film features Jai Courtney (Suicide Squad), Hassie Harrison (Yellowstone), and Josh Heuston (Dune: Prophecy).

Set for a June 6, 2025 theatrical release, Dangerous Animals merges the serial killer genre with a shark-centered storyline. The plot follows Zephyr (Harrison), a headstrong surfer who is abducted at sea by a shark-obsessed killer (Courtney). Imprisoned on his boat, Zephyr must find a way to outsmart her captor before he completes a deadly ritual involving the sharks lurking below.

Director Sean Byrne expressed enthusiasm for working again with IFC Films after his previous collaboration on The Devil’s Candy, noting the film’s unique angle on shark horror. Emily Gotto, SVP of Acquisitions & Productions at Shudder, praised Byrne’s approach, highlighting how Dangerous Animals unites two intense elements: serial killers and sharks.

Produced by Brouhaha Entertainment, LD Entertainment, Oddfellows Entertainment, and Range Media Partners, the film is backed by notable genre collaborators, including Troy Lum, Andrew Mason, Pete Shilaimon, Mickey Liddell, Chris Ferguson, and Brian Kavanaugh Jones. The deal was finalized by Emily Gotto for IFC Films and Shudder, with LD’s Michael Glassman and Range Select negotiating on behalf of the filmmakers.