Independent Film Company and Shudder have acquired the horror film SACCHARINE, directed by Natalie Erika James, for distribution in North America and the UK ahead of its Sundance premiere.

Target Information

Independent Film Company and Shudder have secured the rights to Natalie Erika James’ supernatural body horror film, SACCHARINE, from XYZ Films, ahead of its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival. This film features a talented cast including Midori Francis, Danielle Macdonald, and Madeleine Madden, and marks James' third feature film following her acclaimed psychological horror debut, RELIC, which was distributed by IFC Midnight, and APARTMENT 7A, a prequel to ROSEMARY’S BABY. The acquisition covers distribution rights in North America and the UK, with a planned theatrical release preceding its debut on Shudder in 2026.

SACCHARINE tells the chilling story of Hana, a medical student faced with a sinister force after her involvement in a bizarre weight-loss fad that involves consuming human ashes.

Industry Overview

The independent film sector in the United States has witnessed a significant transformation over the past decade, as audiences increasingly seek out unique, challenging narratives that diverge from mainstream cinema. Emerging filmmakers are leveraging