A controversial Oscar-winning filmmaker is returning to Netflix with a new horror film. Not only does it bring in a terrifying supernatural tale, but it also marks the director’s debut in the horror genre. The project is an adaptation of a renowned French novel.
Netflix Teams with Oscar winner on an elevated horror movie
A Variety report revealed that Netflix is reuniting with the award-winning director Jacques Audiard after the success of Emilia Pérez. The streaming giant has acquired the rights to the renowned horror novel La Nuit Ravagee, written by the French novelist Jean-Baptiste Del Amo.
This early-1990s story is set in Saint-Auch, a fictitious suburb located on the southern outskirts of Toulouse, in the south of France. It follows a group of teenagers who have become intrigued by an abandoned house after their friend dies under mysterious circumstances. In search of the truth, they enter the house without knowing the peril that lies within its walls.
After entering the building, they realize that a supernatural entity controls the house that feeds on their fears, wishes, and psychological problems, turning them into nightmares. The novel combines psychological horror and coming-of-age drama in one single story.
The fantasy novel “La Nuit Ravagee” was published by Gallimard last year. It has received critical acclaim for being inspired by classic horror films of the 1980s and 1990s, as well as the works of Stephen King. Social themes covered include racism, homophobia, domestic violence, and coming-of-age.
This new venture marks a departure for Audiard. He is mostly known for successful films like A Prophet, Rust and Bone, Dheepan, and Emilia Pérez. Though Audiard has covered genres like crime, romanticism, and musicals, this will mark his debut in the horror genre.
The latest Netflix production of Audiard was Emilia Pérez. It became one of the biggest talking points of the 2025 awards season. Although its Oscar campaign was overshadowed by controversy surrounding lead star Karla Sofía Gascón’s social media posts, two Academy Awards were won during the 97th Oscars ceremony. The winner of Best Supporting Actress was Zoe Saldana, while El Mal got the Best Original Song award.
A release date for La Nuit Ravagee has not yet been announced. Nevertheless, the project is another example of Netflix’s cooperation with renowned international filmmakers and another opportunity for Audiard to explore an entirely new genre.
Originally reported by Surya Singh on ComingSoon.net.
