Then the new film *Passenger* might be perfect for you. The new release from Paramount Pictures, *Passenger*, is directed by André Øvredal and is scheduled to premiere on May 22, 2026. The film is being produced in collaboration with Domain Entertainment and is produced by Walter Hamada and Gary Dauberman. The trailer opens with an unsettling statistic: "130 million people took road trips last year," yet nearly 15,000 of them were never seen again.
As described on the official *Passenger* website, the film depicts a young couple who witness a disastrous highway accident while traveling; "they soon realize they didn't leave the crash site alone, as a demonic presence known as 'The Passenger'—which won't stop until it claims them both—turns their van-life adventure into a nightmare."
Director: André Øvredal
Writers: Zachary Donohue, T.W. Burgess
Stars: Jacob Scipio, Lou Llobell, Melissa Leo
This film caught my attention—one might say—much in the way it would a somewhat nervous fellow traveler. By depicting invisible demonic forces in action, the movie proves truly terrifying. However, judging by the reactions to the trailer, it seems these sentiments are quite widespread. Comments on the film's trailer include responses referencing the frightening jump scares and the impressively unsettling sound design. The idea of finding oneself in a new place, surrounded by unfamiliar faces and traditions, feels highly relatable. The anxiety that envelops the couple as they approach their vacation destination is something almost any traveler has experienced at some point.
André Øvredal is known for his work directing films such as *Troll Hunter* (2010) and *The Autopsy of Jane Doe* (2016). Ten years later, *Passenger* could become his next big hit. The film features several lead characters. Tyler, played by Jacob Scipio, is known for his roles in the *Bad Boys* franchise. Lou Llobell—known for her role in the TV series *Foundation*—plays Maddie. Melissa Leo—who starred in *The Equalizer* alongside Denzel Washington—plays Diana.
The film's antagonist—"The Passenger," or the highway stalker—is played by Joseph Lopez, likely the least-known name in the entire cast. It is worth highlighting this fact, as his performance could prove to be a true catalyst for Lopez's career, opening doors to future roles—should that be the professional path he wishes to pursue. Given the terrifying description of "The Passenger," Lopez has ample opportunity to showcase his acting chops in a thriller role. This could be Lopez's "Amy Madigan moment."
As chilling as the trailer may be, anticipation surrounding this film is immense—especially following a historic year for the horror genre at the Academy Awards. The resounding Oscar success of the vampire thriller *Sinners*—as well as the "Best Supporting Actress" award won by Amy Madigan for the film *Weapons*—reminded audiences of all stripes that horror cinema can be considered, for all intents and purposes, a legitimate art form. *Passenger* has the potential to become a classic of the horror genre; but we’ll have to wait until May 22nd to find out!
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