Léa Seydoux Joins A24’s Bold New Take on Poe’s Horror Classic

Léa Seydoux is set to star alongside Mikey Madison in A24’s upcoming adaptation of Edgar Allan Poe’s The Masque of the Red Death. The project, described as a darkly comedic and wildly revisionist horror film, is gearing up to begin filming next month, though a release date has yet to be announced.

According to reports, Madison will portray twin sisters, while Seydoux takes on the role of a cunning lady-in-waiting, determined to climb the social ladder by any means necessary. The story centers on a deranged prince who shelters the nobility in his castle as a deadly plague sweeps through the lower classes. Amidst the chaos, a long-lost twin, hidden among the commoners, infiltrates the castle, plunging into a world of excess, power struggles, vengeance, and brutal decapitations.

Reimagining a Gothic Masterpiece

While the film draws inspiration from Poe’s 1842 short story, A24 is taking a bold approach, infusing the narrative with dark humor and a modern sensibility. The original tale follows Prince Prospero, who attempts to escape a devastating disease by isolating himself and his fellow aristocrats in a fortified abbey. He throws a lavish masquerade ball, only to be confronted by a mysterious guest dressed as a victim of the plague. The story was previously brought to the screen in 1964, with Vincent Price in the lead role.

This new adaptation promises to push boundaries, blending gothic horror with biting satire and unexpected twists. Audiences can expect a fresh perspective on a classic story, with a cast ready to deliver unforgettable performances.

Behind the Scenes and Star Power

Charlie Polinger, who made his directorial debut last year with the psychological horror film The Plague, will helm the project. His previous work has set high expectations for a visually striking and emotionally charged experience.

Seydoux, known for her roles in Dune: Part Two, No Time to Die, and Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol, brings significant star power to the production. Madison, who earned an Oscar for her performance in the 2024 comedy- drama Anora, adds further depth to the cast. With such talent on board, anticipation is building for what could be one of the year’s most talked-about horror releases.

As production gears up, horror fans are keeping a close eye on this ambitious project. While the release date remains under wraps, excitement is already mounting for A24’s latest venture into the world of gothic terror.