Summary
Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s upcominghorrorthrillerPendulumis rounding out the cast with the addition of aWalking Deadstar.Pendulumis written and directed by Mark Heyman, best known for his writing work, which includes penning Darren Aronofsky’sBlack Swanand the 2023 horror filmThe Boogeyman. Aronofsky is serving as producer on the movie, which will serve as Heyman’s feature directorial debut.
The plot ofPendulumfollows a couple to a healing retreat in New Mexico, where they hope to cope with a traumatic event in their lives. Abigail, played by Phoebe Dynevor, falls under the spell of the retreat’s cryptic leader, while Patrick, played by Gordon-Levitt, begins to question the nature of it all. As things grow dire, the group’s legitimacy is called into question, as a more sinister truth may be hiding just beneath the surface. No further details were shared about the film, but it now appears to be adding more cast members, with shooting currently in progress.
As reported byDeadline,The Walking Dead’sNorman Reedus is joining the cast ofPendulum, which was described as a “terrifying new genre film.“The actor, who can next be seen in theJohn WickspinoffBallerina, is reportedly playing a friend of the couple who introduces them to the retreat where the bulk of the film is likely to take place.Details surrounding the character are scarce, but given Reedus' stature and the nature of the film, he could be playing a pivotal role.
Pendulum Is Setting The Stage For Great Performances and Horrifying Thrills
Reedus may be set to play a dubious character, which he excels at, and along with the rest of the cast,Pendulumpromises to deliver superb acting. He is also no stranger to horror films, having appeared inPandorumand twofilms by Guillermo del Toro:MimicandBlade II. However, it’s Reedus' time with horror TV that has brought him the most notoriety. He portrayed the fan-favorite character Daryl Dixon throughout 11 seasons ofThe Walking Dead, even earning his own spinoff,The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon.
Gordon-Levitt has appeared in his share of genres, though horror isn’t one he’s spent much time with. He appeared inHalloween H20, but also acted in tense thrillers, like7500andInception. Heyman has only directed a short and an episode of the showStrange Angel. However, given his history with Aronofsky, who is a lauded director, there is an implied trust that Heyman can deliver behind the camera.
Aronofsky often turns dramatic storiesinto horror-fueled narratives, such asPi,Black Swan, andRequiem for a Dream. Each film features a grounded human story that tackles larger themes, such as jealousy and addiction, with terrifying consequences. Therefore, while not much is known aboutPendulumbeyond the plot, the behind-the-scenes talent is capable of delivering on the promised scares, with a stellar cast to help them bring it to life. Further details, including a release date, will be forthcoming as production continues.
