Media Capital Technologies (MCT) along with The Horror Section will provide full financing and production for “Ice Cream Man,” the upcoming horror movie directed by Eli Roth.
Roth, a seasoned pro in this category known for his involvement in the “Hostel” and “Cabin Fever” series, comes back with a tale about a charming summer community that spirals into chaos as an ice cream vendor offers children seemingly delightful treats but with terrifying consequences. Apart from this brief hint, further plot specifics remain tightly confidential.
Roth penned the screenplay and plans to helm the project based on a concept he’s nurtured for more than two decades. He explains that the postponement was due to studios becoming hesitant about funding it. Earlier this year, Roth initiated The Horror Section with the aim of producing the type of indie horror films that brought him recognition.
Roth will co-produce “Ice Cream Man” along with Christopher Woodrow and Raj Singh from MCT, as well as Kate Harrison from Cream. Executives producing the project include Connor DiGregorio and Eli Massillon from MCT, together with Jon Schnaars from The Horror Section.
WME Independent will handle the global distribution rights for the movie and present it to potential buyers at Cannes. The Horror Section holds the U.S. distribution rights and intends to launch a broad theater release in the second quarter of 2026. Production is scheduled to start this summer in Canada.
“I’ve been nurturing this concept for quite some time now, but studios shied away from my initial scripts,” states Roth. “Now’s the moment to venture even further beyond where I’ve gone before with what could become my scariest and wildest movie yet.” He continues, “‘Ice Cream Man’ embodies exactly why we established The Horror Section—to produce unrestricted, groundbreaking cinematic experiences that horrify audiences for generations. It means a lot to me to collaborate with exceptional allies like MCT and our dedicated group of backers at The Horror Section.”
“Working with Eli is always a privilege, and this film feels fresh and exciting as it’s his first original project in the independent market in nearly a decade,” says MCT Principals Christopher Woodrow and Raj Singh. “We believe ‘Ice Cream Man’ will mark the start of the next great horror franchise with massive commercial potential.”
MCT will make their debut as financiers for independent film ventures with ‘Ice Cream Man,’ extending beyond their previous role as Lionsgate’s main co-financing partner for major movie releases. Some recent productions they were involved in include ‘Saw X,’ ‘The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare,’ ‘The Best Christmas Pageant Ever,’ and ‘Flight Risk.’ Future projects slated for production encompass the ‘John Wick’ spin-off titled ‘Ballerina,’ along with others such as ‘The Long Walk,’ ‘Good Fortune,’ and ‘The Housemaid.’
MCT is a specialty finance company focused on strategic investments in premium content. The company provides capital to media and entertainment businesses, including motion picture studios, independent production entities, and intellectual property rights-holders. A range of institutional investors, including MassMutual, support the company and its investment activities.
In March 2025, Roth, in partnership with MCT, launched The Horror Section with a focus on building a robust library of intellectual property. The company will produce, acquire, and distribute a wide range of content, including independent theatrical films, television series, games, podcasts, and live events. MCT provides strategic support across corporate finance, project finance, and day-to-day operational management.
Roth’s work encompasses titles such as “The House With a Clock in Its Walls,” “Knock Knock,” and “Thanksgiving.”
The Horror Section has recently revealed its inaugural significant film acquisition: “Jimmy and Stiggs,” directed by Joe Begos. This movie is scheduled for a broad theater release in August 2025.
MCT is represented by CAA. Eli Roth is represented by WME.
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