Joshua Giuliano’s ‘River’ Sinks Into Terror at Midnight Madness

Joshua Giuliano’s first feature film, *River*, made its debut in the Midnight Madness program of the Toronto Film Festival, a slot known for showcasing genre‑heavy and daring works.

The 1‑hour‑32‑minute independent production is set for distribution through Shudder and an independent film company, positioning it within the streaming horror niche. Giuliano’s dual role as writer and director signals a personal vision that carries the film from script to screen.

The story centers on three siblings who return to their small‑town hometown to scatter their late father’s ashes on the river he loved. Their boat becomes jammed beneath a bridge, trapping them in a claustrophobic setting while two masked killers stalk them from both sides.

The narrative juxtaposes intimate family memories with the sudden intrusion of violence, creating a tense environment that oscillates between reminiscence and terror.

Jessica Rothe and Jane Levy play Carla and Lucy, respectively, delivering sharp sisterly banter that underpins their strained relationship. Max Mattern portrays the younger brother Drew, providing both a heartfelt portrayal of grief and moments of comic relief.

Dane DiLiegro assumes the role of the silent, towering killer, using his 6‑foot‑8‑inch presence to generate dread while remaining almost mute.

Giuliano’s direction favors an atmospheric approach, relying on simple, unembellished scenes that let tension build naturally. The film avoids overused slasher tropes, instead opting for a restrained style that feels grounded in everyday life.

Giuliano frames the horror with quiet moments before abrupt violent cuts, creating a disorienting yet realistic experience for viewers.

The film’s tone is a blend of classic slasher pacing and poignant family drama. The siblings’ differing recollections of their childhood expose deeper emotional wounds, while the masked killers introduce a surreal threat that feels both familiar and unsettling.

Giuliano’s work seems poised to resonate with audiences who appreciate genre storytelling that also offers emotional depth.

A closing credits scene hints at the potential for a broader franchise, suggesting that *River* could serve as the foundation for future installments. With Shudder’s platform dedicated to horror content, the film is positioned for a focused audience eager for fresh entries into the slasher canon.

## Background & Context

The Midnight Madness slot at Toronto has historically highlighted bold genre pieces that push conventional boundaries. *River* fits within this tradition, offering a fresh take on the slasher format by integrating a family drama core.

Giuliano’s choice to work with a modest runtime of 1 hr 32 min aligns with the festival’s preference for concise, intense narratives that can be easily streamed or sold to niche distributors.

Prior to *River*, Giuliano had not released a feature film, making this debut particularly significant for emerging directors seeking to carve out a niche in horror. The partnership with Shudder, a streaming service renowned for its curated horror catalog, provides the film with a ready-made audience familiar with genre expectations.

## Review Highlights

Critics note that the sibling dynamics feel authentic; even early dialogue references to “sis” or “bro” help establish the family bond instantly. Rothe and Levy’s performances deliver distinct perspectives on trauma, while Mattern balances pathos and levity, keeping the film from becoming too bleak.

DiLiegro’s minimal vocal presence allows his imposing stature to dominate, effectively creating a silent antagonist that heightens suspense.

Giuliano’s stylistic choices emphasize atmosphere over spectacle. The film deliberately leans into simple, believable horror rather than gratuitous gore, focusing instead on tension built through silence and the creeping sense of being watched.

The narrative structure—intercutting calm scenes with abrupt violent attacks—mirrors how viewers might be jolted by sudden real‑world threats.

## What Happens Next

The final credits leave an open door for possible sequels or spin‑offs, indicating a franchise strategy from the outset. Shudder’s involvement suggests that the film could see additional promotion on the platform, potentially reaching a wider horror community.

While no concrete plans for sequels are announced, the film’s structure and distribution choices position it well for future expansion within the genre.

*River* arrives at a time when audiences crave horror that balances visceral thrills with character depth. By weaving together sibling conflict and masked menace, Joshua Giuliano offers a nuanced entry into slasher cinema that may well influence upcoming works in the genre.