Updated
Updated · Deadline · Aug 10
Promise Develops AI Horror Film 'Touch Grass' as Backrooms Producer Returns After $395 Million Hit
Updated
Updated · Deadline · Aug 10

Promise Develops AI Horror Film 'Touch Grass' as Backrooms Producer Returns After $395 Million Hit

3 articles · Updated · Deadline · Aug 10

Summary

  • Promise is developing Touch Grass, a psychological horror feature directed by chief creative officer Dave Clark and built around the “dead internet theory.”
  • Clark’s original story follows a young woman creating AI personalities for a tech company who discovers “The Feed,” where copies of people are assembled from their deepest desires.
  • Chris White and Brad Miska have joined as producers, giving the project horror-market backing from Backrooms and Bloody Disgusting; Promise co-founders George Strompolos and Jamie Byrne are executive producers.
  • Promise said the film will use a hybrid production model combining live-action performances, practical effects, traditional VFX and generative AI rather than adapting existing IP.
  • White’s involvement links the project to Backrooms, the A24 release that grew from 4chan, YouTube and TikTok roots into a $395 million global box-office success.

Insights

Could a horror film built with generative AI permanently blur the line between our real fears and artificial nightmares?
How will Hollywood react if this AI-hybrid production successfully bypasses the industry's traditional copyright nightmares?