The intersection of horror filmmaking and emerging technology is taking another step forward with the announcement of Terrarium, a new hybrid horror feature from producer Steven Schneider, AI-native studio Secret Level, and production platform Artlist.
Currently in production, Terrarium is being positioned as the first union-compliant AI-powered feature film, blending traditional production methods with AI-assisted tools in a workflow designed to remain compliant with both DGA and SAG-AFTRA standards. For horror fans and industry watchers alike, the project represents an interesting development in how genre filmmaking may evolve alongside new creative technologies.
The film is written and directed by Emmy-winning filmmaker Jason Zada, known for The Forest, and reunites him with Schneider following their previous collaboration on The Houses October Built. Producing for Secret Level is Christina Lee Storm, whose previous credits include Newborn and Jurassic Punk.
According to the announcement, Artlist’s AI platform will be integrated directly into Secret Level’s proprietary filmmaking pipeline, supporting the production of a feature-length horror film while maintaining a traditional creative structure. Artlist is also serving as financier and executive producer, marking the company’s first move into feature filmmaking.
Schneider, whose horror producing credits include the Paranormal Activity and Insidious franchises, described the project as a unique creative undertaking driven by Zada’s approach to storytelling. Artlist leadership framed the collaboration as part of a broader effort to expand creative tools for filmmakers rather than replace human-led production.
As conversations around AI’s role in entertainment continue, Terrarium enters the discussion from a genre space often open to experimentation. Whether it becomes a turning point or simply an intriguing case study, it’s certainly a production horror fans and filmmakers may be watching closely.
