Paramount Pictures has officially removed the highly anticipated horror film Vicious, featuring Dakota Fanning and directed by Bryan Bertino, from its 2025 release calendar. This unexpected decision leaves fans eager for updates regarding the film’s future.

Dakota Fanning, known for her role in The Watchers, is set to star alongside Bryan Bertino, the acclaimed director of The Strangers, in the upcoming horror movie Vicious. Initially slated for a theatrical release on August 8, 2025, the film was previously moved to February 28, but recent reports from Deadline reveal that Vicious has been completely removed from Paramount’s release schedule. The studio is reportedly searching for a more favorable date to unveil this chilling tale.

Written by Bertino, Vicious tells the gripping story of a young woman, portrayed by Fanning, who receives an unsettling gift from a mysterious late-night visitor. As she delves deeper into the bizarre circumstances surrounding this present, she quickly realizes that her life is at stake as she tumbles into a terrifying and surreal ordeal. This film promises to be a heart-pounding exploration of fear and survival.

In addition to Dakota Fanning, the star-studded cast of Vicious includes Devyn Nekoda from Scream VI, Mary McCormack known for The West Wing, Rachel Blanchard of The Summer I Turned Pretty, Kathryn Hunter from Poor Things, Klea Scott of Millennium, and Emily Mitchell from Ordinary Angels. This diverse ensemble brings a wealth of talent to the film, enhancing its potential to captivate audiences.

Produced by Atlas Independent, Vicious is brought to life by producer Richard Suckle, with Melinda Whitaker taking on the role of executive producer. The collaboration of these industry veterans promises a high-quality production that horror enthusiasts will undoubtedly look forward to.

Bertino made a significant impact in the horror genre with his feature directorial debut, the 2008 film The Strangers. He has since directed several other horror films, including Mockingbird in 2014, co-written with Mr. Robot creator Sam Esmail, The Monster released in 2016, and The Dark and the Wicked from 2020. While he focuses on Vicious, the Strangers franchise continues to evolve, with director Renny Harlin recently completing a trilogy of Strangers films. Fans are eagerly awaiting the release dates for The Strangers: Chapter 2 and The Strangers: Chapter 3, which currently remain undisclosed alongside Vicious.

What are your thoughts on Paramount’s decision to adjust the release schedule for Vicious? We invite you to share your opinions in the comments section below.