The film was an Official Selection at the Brussels International Fantastic Film Festival, where it earned the Silver Méliès Special Jury Prize in the European Competition. It was also an Official Selection at the Raindance Film Festival, receiving nominations for Best Horror, Best UK Feature, Best UK Cinematography, and Best Performance in a UK Feature Film.
Viva Pictures has acquired its latest film, the already viral sensation, Pinocchio Unstrung for theatrical release in North America July 24, 2026. This slasher horror film is the latest in the Twisted Child Universe and stars Robert Englund (A Nightmare on Elm Street franchise), Richard Brake (The Strangers trilogy, TV’s “Mayor of Kingstown”), Jessica Balmer (A Royal Christmas Manor) and Cameron Bell (TV’s “The Silo”).
Having had its world premiere at the Brussels International Fantastic Film Festival, the film is directed and written by Rhys Frake-Waterfield and produced by Scott Chambers as part of their Jagged Edge Productions, the team behind Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey.
A chilling reimagining of the familiar fable, Pinocchio Unstrung unfolds inside an elite London prep school. Influenced by a sinister Cricket (Robert Englund) and created by Geppetto (Richard Brake), Pinocchio launches a violent crusade to carve himself into a real boy like his brother James, one piece at a time.
“It’s a bold take on a familiar property, reimagining Pinocchio through a darker, more visceral lens,” said Victor Elizalde, President Viva Pictures. “The horror audience has proven to be one of the most discerning and engaged in theatrical, and we’re proud to bring exhibitors a distinctive title that can cut through and drive attendance.”
Pinocchio Unstrung is 88 minutes and is anticipated to be Rated R.
The deal was negotiated by Victor Elizalde for Viva Pictures and Stuart Alson for ITN Distribution, Inc.
ITN Distribution, Inc. Presents A Jagged Edge Production. Richard Brake, Robert Englund, Jessica Balmer, Cameron Bell. Pinocchio Designed by MastersFX. Executive Producer David Coppa. Executive Producers Stuart Alson, Nicole Holland, and David Coppa. Produced by Rhys Frake-Waterfield, Scott Chambers. Written and Directed By Rhys Frake-Waterfield. Home video and streaming rights are being handled by ITN Distribution, Inc.
