The horror genre has always been a playground for young, ambitious filmmakers, and 2026 has been a particularly exciting year for these emerging talents. With the success of 'Backrooms' from A24, the industry is now buzzing with anticipation for the next big thing in horror, and 'It Ends' is poised to be that breakout hit. This film, directed by Alex Ullom, takes a unique approach to the genre by exploring the concept of an endless, liminal space, a theme that has captivated audiences and critics alike.
What makes 'It Ends' particularly intriguing is its ability to blend the familiar with the unexpected. The premise is simple: a group of recent graduates embark on a late-night joyride, only to find themselves trapped on a never-ending road. This is a concept that has been explored in various forms, but Ullom's execution is what sets it apart. The film's poster, for instance, is a clever play on the 'Backrooms' poster, hinting at a shared producer and a potential connection between the two films. This subtle nod to a popular trend in horror is a testament to Ullom's understanding of the genre and its current landscape.
The film's official synopsis provides a glimpse into the psychological tension that unfolds: "A group of recent grads head out on a late-night drive for grub, hoping to enjoy one final hangout before their paths diverge. Instead, they accidentally turn onto a never-ending, two-lane hellscape surrounded by untold horrors and cosmic forces beyond their understanding. Cramped together inside a Jeep Cherokee and with the miles stretching infinitely ahead, they face a choice: embrace their new existence or fight to escape it." This synopsis is a masterclass in building suspense, as it hints at the characters' struggle for survival and their growing sense of despair.
One of the most fascinating aspects of 'It Ends' is the way it utilizes the confines of a car to heighten the tension. The Jeep Cherokee becomes a microcosm of the characters' struggle, with the flashing hazard lights and beeping door serving as constant reminders of their predicament. Ullom's use of these elements is a testament to his skill as a filmmaker, as he knows how to manipulate the audience's emotions through subtle visual cues. The car, in this case, is not just a means of transportation but a character in its own right, reflecting the characters' growing anxiety and frustration.
The film's premiere at the 2025 SXSW Film and TV Festival marked a significant moment in its journey. The acquisition by Neon, a studio known for its support of independent films, further solidified its potential for success. The post-festival attention, including its brief availability on Letterboxd's Video Store, was a testament to its appeal and the interest it generated among audiences and critics alike. This platform, designed to make festival films accessible to a wider audience, played a crucial role in introducing 'It Ends' to a new generation of horror enthusiasts.
Neon's decision to release 'It Ends' in select theaters in New York City and Los Angeles before expanding nationwide is a strategic move. It allows the film to build a dedicated fan base and generate word-of-mouth buzz before its wider release. This approach is a common strategy in the industry, as it helps to create a sense of anticipation and excitement among audiences. The film's trailer, which is included in this article, is a powerful tool in this regard, as it provides a glimpse into the film's eerie and captivating world.
In my opinion, 'It Ends' is a must-see for horror enthusiasts and casual viewers alike. It is a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of young filmmakers to push the boundaries of the genre. The film's exploration of the liminal space is a fascinating concept, and Ullom's execution is both unnerving and captivating. The use of the car as a character and the psychological tension it creates are a masterclass in filmmaking, and the film's release by Neon is a significant moment in the industry. As for the future, I can only speculate that 'It Ends' will be a harbinger of things to come, setting a new standard for horror films and inspiring a new generation of filmmakers to explore the genre's limitless possibilities.
