The psychological horror-thriller “Exit to the Guillotine,” featuring Peyton List of “Cobra Kai” fame and Gustaf Skarsgård, known for his roles in “Oppenheimer” and “Vikings,” has officially concluded its production. This cinematic endeavor, helmed by director Zachary Cotler, promises to deliver a gripping narrative that blends psychological suspense with elements of horror.
The film's plot revolves around Burne Peter, portrayed by List, an off-Broadway actress who finds herself entangled with an international theater troupe. This troupe is rehearsing a vintage Polish play within the eerie confines of a decommissioned prison located on the Ukrainian coast. As the rehearsals progress under the guidance of the renowned yet unpredictable director Dado Levytskyy, played by Skarsgård, a sinister pattern emerges: each rehearsal is followed by an actor's inexplicable disappearance. The ensemble cast also includes Ksenia Daniela Kharlamova, Lea Myren, Dylan Douglas, Marcin Czarnik, Nikki Si’ulepa, Michael Golab, and Pablo Sandstrom, alongside newcomer Jan Kłapyta, all contributing to the unsettling atmosphere of the production.
Zachary Cotler not only directed but also penned the screenplay for “Exit to the Guillotine.” His independent film company, Winter Film Company, is responsible for producing the movie. Cotler has a history of creating distinct cinematic works, such as his debut drama “Maya Dardel,” which received an award for best screenplay at the Prague Independent Film Festival in 2017. His filmography also includes “When I’m a Moth,” an unconventional biopic about Hillary Rodham set in 1969 Alaska, and “The Wall of Mexico,” a feature film from 2019 exploring a wealthy Mexican-American family's attempts to protect their water supply. The production team for “Exit to the Guillotine” boasts a lineup of experienced producers including Magdalena Zyzak, Bonnie Timmermann, Marius Vilunas, Jean Pierre Magro, and J. Todd Harris, with List, Skarsgård, Thomas Pettinelli, and Mark Jazwin serving as executive producers.
This film represents a compelling exploration of human vulnerability and the dark undercurrents that can lurk beneath artistic ambition. It highlights the importance of collaboration and the dedication required to bring a challenging story to the screen, promising an intense and thought-provoking experience for audiences.
