The aftermath of World War II is a period often overshadowed by the conflict itself, but it was a time of immense change and uncertainty. As the world rebuilt, new powers emerged, and the seeds of the Cold War were sown. It's this volatile era that the upcoming independent thriller Red Ink explores, but with a supernatural twist that sets it apart from historical dramas.
Starring Toby Leonard Moore, known for his role in Billions, Red Ink follows the editor of a New York newspaper who is thrust into the center of a national crisis. A mysterious affliction is spreading across the globe, and he is tasked with shaping the public's understanding of it. But as he digs deeper, he finds himself caught between the truth and the powers that want to control the narrative. The film is described as a gripping examination of "media propaganda, institutional power, and exploitation" during a time on the brink of McCarthyism.
Collider is excited to share an exclusive first look at Red Ink, featuring Moore in character. The image captures him in a period-appropriate suit, surrounded by stacks of papers and folders, a cigarette in hand. The dim lighting of his office adds to the tense, moody atmosphere, suggesting that darkness is closing in from all sides. It's a perfect visual representation of a man overwhelmed by the weight of his responsibilities.
Moore brings a diverse resume to the role. Beyond Billions, he appeared in the first John Wick and David Fincher's Mank. His most recent film role was in the 2024 folk horror The Moogai. He's joined by a talented ensemble cast, including Siobhan Fallon Hogan (Men in Black), Tommie Earl Jenkins (Wednesday), and Eugene Cordero (Loki). The cast also features Rose Reid, Kyle Selig, Mike Doyle, D.B. Sweeney, Oona Laurence, Josh Plasse, Michael Barra, Max von Essen, and Melissa Putterman-Hoffman.
Behind the camera, Red Ink is directed by Benjamin J. Murray and Michael Christensen, co-founders of Incline Studios, who also produced the film. Christensen wrote the screenplay and developed the story with Murray and Marty Lucero. The filmmakers shot the movie in real time, using uninterrupted one-shots to capture the frantic energy of a newsroom covering a breaking story of this magnitude. This technique promises to immerse viewers in the chaos and urgency of the situation.
For fans of thrillers that keep you on the edge of your seat, Red Ink is shaping up to be a must-watch. The film is set to premiere in the Directors' Debuts Competition at the 34th Camerimage festival, which runs from November 7-14 in Toruń, Poland. This prestigious platform is a fitting launch for a film that promises to be both thought-provoking and visually striking.
As the world of entertainment continues to explore new angles on historical events, Red Ink stands out by blending real-world tensions with a vampiric allegory. It's a bold concept that could resonate with audiences looking for something different. The film's focus on media manipulation and institutional power is particularly timely, making it a project to watch as it makes its way to screens.
Stay tuned for more updates on Red Ink as it heads to its world premiere. In the meantime, check out the exclusive first image above to get a glimpse of Moore's intense portrayal.
