The upcoming horror feature ‘Goons’ has expanded its cast, bringing in five new talents: J. Alphonse Nicholson (‘P-Valley’), Serayah McNeill (‘Empire’), Tyler Lepley (‘Harlem’), YG, and SteVonté Hart (‘Bel-Air’). These additions join previously announced leads Michael Rainey Jr. (‘Power’ Universe) and Chloe Bailey (‘Swarm’) in the Gerard McMurray-directed project.
‘Goons’ is being filmed in and around New Orleans, with its storyline set against the haunting scenery of Louisiana’s cane fields and plantations. Details on the characters they’ll be playing have not been revealed.
McMurray, who co-wrote the script with Hodge K. Johnson, expressed excitement about the cast, saying, “YG, J. Alphonse, Serayah, SteVonté, and Tyler all bring their unique flavor to this amazing recipe we are cooking up on ‘Goons’ here in my hometown of New Orleans. I can’t wait for the world to see what we are putting together with this young, gifted cast.”
The film is being produced by Tommy Oliver under Confluential Films, through their newly launched genre label, New Fear Unlocked Productions. This label is dedicated to producing bold, elevated, and culturally specific horror films from creators of color. McMurray’s own Buppie Productions is also involved, underscoring the film’s commitment to empowering Black storytellers.
Oliver shared his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “I can’t wait for audiences to see what Gerard and I are cooking up with the kick-ass squad we’ve assembled. Kicking off New Fear Unlocked with this film from such a talented director is a thrilling way to introduce this exciting venture.”
With filming in progress, ‘Goons’ is shaping up to be an interesting, culturally rooted addition to the horror genre
(Originally read on THR)