Margaret Qualley, known for her roles in The Substance, Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood, and Netflix’s The Maid, is set to take on the lead role in Victorian Psycho, a psychological horror thriller based on the upcoming novel by Virginia Feito. Directed by Zachary Wigon (Sanctuary), this film marks their second collaboration following the 2022 TIFF-premiered Sanctuary, which garnered critical acclaim.

Set in 1858, Victorian Psycho follows the story of Winifred Notty (played by Qualley), a governess with unsettling tendencies who arrives at the isolated Ensor House to educate the family’s children. However, as Winifred settles into her new role, members of the staff mysteriously vanish, raising suspicion among the estate’s owners about her true nature.

Produced by Dan Kagan (Longlegs, Significant Other) under Traffic. and Sebastien Raybaud (Fuze), the film is backed by Anton, which is financing the production and handling international rights at the American Film Market. Anton, UTA Independent Film Group, and CAA Media Finance are jointly representing U.S. rights. Filming is slated to begin in March 2025.

In discussing the project, director Wigon praised the character of Winifred Notty, describing her as “thoroughly insane and unforgettable,” while Qualley expressed excitement for returning to work with Wigon, referring to Victorian Psycho as a “twisted world.”