Magnet Releasing Acquires Worldwide Rights Totremendum Pictures’ Horror-Thriller ‘Held’

In HELD, Emma (Jill Awbrey) and Henry's (Bart Johnson) marriage is losing its spark. In an effort to reconnect, they vacation to a remote high-end rental, complete with automated smart house features and integrated security. However, after suspecting a nighttime intruder they decide to flee, only to become forcibly trapped inside by the automated security system. Emitting from the house, an unknown 'Voice' watches their every move through an array of hidden cameras, revealing an intimate and unsettling knowledge of their relationship. While the situation grows increasingly brutal, Emma and Henry must work together to uncover the truth and find a way out before it's too late.

Magnet Releasing, the genre arm of Magnolia Pictures, announced that they have acquired worldwide rights to horror-thriller HELD, from directors Chris Lofing and Travis Cluff (THE GALLOWS). Starring and written by Jill Awbrey, HELD was opening night at Frightfest and follows a couple whose ailing marriage is put to the test when they are held captive in an isolated vacation rental by an unseen Voice that commands their every move and threatens harm if they don’t obey. Magnet will release the film in theaters and on demand April 9.

“Chris Lofing and Travis Cluff have delivered a frighteningly creepy vision,” said Magnolia President Eamonn Bowles. “You'll never look at a 'smart' home in the same way again.”

“We know what it’s like to be given a shot in an industry that is so competitive - where newcomers are often overlooked,” said Lofing & Cluff. “We’re proud to bring Jill’s unique vision to life. Her story is empowering, original and terrifying. We’re thrilled to be working with Magnet to bring HELD to the world and look forward to thrilling audiences as well.”

Directed by Chris Lofing and Travis Cluff, HELD was written by Jill Awbrey, and produced at Tremendum Pictures by Lofing, Cluff and Kyle Gentz. Executive producers are Brent Powell, Ryan Pratt, Jener Dasilva, Sohrab Sohrabi, Thomas Dowell and Tyler Myers.

The deal was negotiated by Magnolia EVP Dori Begley and Magnolia SVP of Acquisitions John Von Thaden with Pip Ngo from XYZ Films on behalf of Tremendum. Magnolia Head of International Sales Lorna Lee Torres and Director of International Sales Marie Zeniter will be introducing the film to buyers at EFM this week.