Undertone Film: A24 Horror about a Podcaster

Undertone film from A24 is a 2026 psychological horror about a paranormal podcast host who returns to her childhood home and receives ominous audio recordings that turn her life into a nightmare. Debut director Ian Tuason builds fear around sound. The trailer has already been released, premiering in the US on March 13.

A24's Undertone is set to release in 2026, fusing podcasting and horror trends into a story about a host caught in an audio nightmare, xrust reports. This is Ian Tuason's debut, which caused a stir at the Fantasia festival. A trailer recently appeared revealing the release date in the US — here are the key details about the project.

The film: what is the essence of the plot?

The film follows Evie, a skeptical paranormal podcast host, who comes to her childhood home to care for her dying mother. In search of peace, she receives from her co-host a series of audio files from an anonymous couple recording strange sounds. As the recordings are analyzed for broadcast, the noises evolve — they become intrusive, personal and ominous, turning the investigation into real horror. Evie realizes the parallels with her own life, and the sounds seem to come to life, pushing her towards madness.

Movie: what increases fear?

Unlike horror classics with visual effects, Undertone builds tension on audio. The plot focuses on ten mysterious files supposedly documenting ghosts, forcing the heroine and the audience to listen for implications. Director Ian Tuason uses silence, distortion and sound design, where any rustle is a threat. It reflects the modern obsession with podcasts about crime and the supernatural, exploring how curiosity turns into danger. Exclusive detail: Evie is the only visible character on the screen, the rest are only voices, increasing claustrophobia and emphasizing that the invisible is scarier than the visible.

Film: who is starring?

• Nina Keary (of The Handmaid's Tale fame) as Evie is the central figure whose performance shows disintegration from fear.
• Chris Holden-Ried (voice of Justin, co-host) — adds dynamics to the podcast dialogue.
• Michelle Duquet as Evie's mom.
• Kiana Lyn Bastidas as Jessa.
• Jeff Yeung as Mike.
• Sarah Bodine (voice of Abby) and Brian Quintero (Dr. Ram).

Most of the actors participate only in voice, adding to the atmosphere of unseen horror.

Movie: Who director?

Ian Tuason, a Toronto feature debutant, previously found fame with his VR horror shorts with millions of views on YouTube. His style is seen in its experimental form and focus on sound as a narrative element. It premiered at the Fantasia International Film Festival, where the film won the Gold Audience Award for Canadian films, after which A24 bought the rights for a seven-figure sum.

The film: when will it premiere?

Release in American theaters is scheduled for March 13, 2026. Duration — 85 minutes, Canadian production.

Background

Undertone was originally intended to be a horror podcast, but evolved into a film. Filming took place in February 2025 in Toronto (Rexdale) with a budget of 500 thousand dollars. Produced by Dan Slater and Cody Calahan, with participation from Black Fawn Films and Spooky Pictures. Soundtrack by Shanika Lewis-Weddell, editing by Sonny Atkins. Following the success of Fantasia, six distributors competed for the rights.

Xrust Undertone Film: A24 Horror about Podcaster