The slasher genre has given us some of horror's most enduring icons—from the classic trio of Freddy, Jason, and Michael to modern favorites like Art the Clown. What makes these villains stick? A killer look, inventive kills, and a dash of personality. Now, filmmaker Joshua Gratton is ready to introduce a new kind of nightmare at Fantastic Fest: Platypus, a surreal slasher that literally invades its victims' dreams. We've got an exclusive first look at the film's terrifying—and oddly goofy—villain.
A Small Town's Secret Nightmare
In Platypus, a quiet town is terrorized by a masked murderer that only young Kimberly (Kayla Lundstram) seems to notice. Despite her warnings, no one believes her. As her dreams grow more vivid and violent, she realizes the killer is getting closer. With no allies, Kimberly must play detective, following clues to stop the carnage before it reaches her doorstep.
The film is a love letter to slasher history, shot on Super 8 film to capture a DIY, low-budget feel. Expect fake blood, bizarre dialogue, and plenty of nudity—but with a delightfully queer twist that pushes beyond typical tropes.
Meet the Killer: A Seashell-Wielding Oddity
Our exclusive image reveals Platypus in all his fuzzy glory. He's a strange blend of sinister and silly—stained work gloves, a gritty jacket, and a blood-speckled mask, but with a borderline comical expression. His weapon of choice? A seashell. It's a choice that promises creative, improvised kills, staying true to the genre's love for inventive murder.
This still hints that Platypus will be humorous, horrifying, and deeply strange—a fresh take on familiar territory. For fans of horror movie video games, this could be a new favorite.
Behind the Nightmare
Gratton wrote and directed Platypus as his second feature, following 2020's Cuties, another queer slasher with an 80s vibe. That film followed a boy who watches gay classmates get picked off, while questioning why he's left alone. For Platypus, Lundstram makes her feature debut, joined by Giselle Morison, Micah Greentree, Annie Alfer, and Tristan C. Pina.
If you're into nightmarish horror thrillers, this one's for you. Platypus premieres at Fantastic Fest, running September 17–24 at the Alamo Drafthouse South Lamar in Austin, Texas. For more on this and other festival titles, check the official Fantastic Fest guide.
Stay tuned for more exclusive previews as we count down to the festival. And if you're curious about horror remakes gone wrong, we've got you covered.
