Los Angeles, California – Filmmaker Eli Roth is set to return to the horror genre with “Ice Cream Man,” a new project fully financed and produced by Media Capital Technologies (MCT) and The Horror Section. The film promises to blend the charm of a quaint summer town with themes of terror as an ice cream vendor introduces a chilling twist to the community.
Roth, known for his influential works such as the “Hostel” and “Cabin Fever” series, has been eagerly awaiting the opportunity to bring this idea to life for over two decades. After encountering challenges with studios hesitant to back the project, he is now excited to push creative boundaries with what he describes as his most frightening endeavor yet.
The film is based on an original concept Roth developed years ago and features a script he penned himself. As director and producer, Roth aims to deliver an unsettling experience that horror enthusiasts will remember for years to come. He founded The Horror Section earlier this year to focus on creating independent films that reflect his distinctive style.
Alongside Roth, MCT’s Christopher Woodrow and Raj Singh, along with Cream’s Kate Harrison, will co-produce the film. Executive producers include MCT’s Connor DiGregorio and Eli Massillon and Jon Schnaars from The Horror Section.
The film will be introduced to international buyers at the Cannes Film Festival by WME Independent, which holds worldwide distribution rights. The Horror Section has secured U.S. distribution rights, aiming for a broad theatrical release in the second quarter of 2026. Principal photography is expected to commence this summer in Canada.
“This concept has been evolving for far too long, but the moment feels right to fully unleash it,” Roth stated. “With ‘Ice Cream Man,’ we want to create the type of unrated, genre-defying experience that horror fans crave.”
According to MCT principals Woodrow and Singh, collaborating with Roth adds a fresh perspective to the independent film market after nearly a decade. They believe “Ice Cream Man” has the potential to launch a new horror franchise that could achieve substantial success.
This project marks a significant shift for MCT as it ventures into independent film financing, previously known for co-financing major titles with Lionsgate. The company’s recent collaborations include high-profile releases like “Saw X” and “The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare.”
MCT, which specializes in strategic investments in premium media content, collaborates with various institutional investors such as MassMutual to support its initiatives.
Since its launch in March 2025, The Horror Section has aimed to build a diverse library of content. The company will focus on producing and acquiring independent films, television series, and podcasts, leveraging MCT’s expertise in corporate finance and project management to ensure success.
Roth’s illustrious career includes notable titles like “The House With a Clock in Its Walls” and “Knock Knock.” The Horror Section recently announced its first significant acquisition with “Jimmy and Stiggs,” scheduled for a wide theatrical release in August 2025.
Eli Roth continues to evolve within the film industry, pushing the limits of horror while collaborating with innovative partners to deliver unforgettable cinematic experiences.