The French horror film Kraken, directed by Mohamed Chabane and Théo Jourdain Rhodes, premiered in cinemas on September 30, 2026. Set in an abandoned tower, the film follows a group of young people trapped in a deadly situation. It is described as a claustrophobic horror film with references to other horror classics such as Vermines and The Blair Witch Project. The film was shot in the Grande Borne housing estate in Grigny, a neighborhood known for its difficult conditions and the birthplace of actor Bilel Chegrani, who plays Marvin in the film. The production team was able to film in real buildings and locations, including a real tower being renovated at the Fort d'Aubervilliers, which had previously been inhabited by squatters.
The film's tagline, "In the tower, no one can hear you scream," is a nod to the classic film Alien. Kraken features a cast that includes Alassane Diong, Manon Bresch, Guillaume Gouix, Bilel Chegrani, Lucie Charles-Alfred, and rappers Gazo and La Mano 1.9, who are making their cinematic debuts. The idea for Kraken was suggested by producer Guillaume Thevenin, who approached Manon Bresch with the concept. The title Kraken was originally associated with a different killer in earlier versions of the screenplay, a former legionnaire with a Kraken tattoo. The title was retained even after the character evolved, and the tower itself became known as "the Kraken tower" due to local myths.
The film's setting in a real neighborhood helped the actors get into character, with Bilel Chegrani noting the significance of filming in the same location ten years after his first short film. The production team worked with many people from the neighborhood, which contributed to the film's authenticity. The film's atmosphere is described as gloomy and heavy, with a focus on creating disorientation and avoiding empty moments. Some scenes were filmed from the perspective of a character's camera, reflecting the era of social media and the character's goal of becoming a "ghost influencer."
The film has been noted for its raw and unpolished style, with a focus on gore and realistic settings. While some viewers experienced discomfort during premiere screenings, the film is considered a contribution to the sub-genre of horror films set in housing estates, alongside films like La Horde and Vermines. The film addresses social issues, including the relationship between young people and the police in housing estates, and the tragedies that have occurred in aging buildings. The film's budget is unknown, but it is seen as a testament to the vitality of French horror cinema.
French Horror Film Kraken Premieres with Claustrophobic Setting and Social Commentary
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