Producer Anky Cyriaque teams with original creator Scott Hampton to bring the cult horror graphic novel to the big screen, with Cullen Bunn co-writing the screenplay
Story-Is-King Pictures has announced that producer Anky Cyriaque is developing a feature film adaptation of The Upturned Stone, the horror graphic novel by Scott Hampton. Ryan Spindell, director of The Mortuary Collection, is attached to write and direct from a screenplay he is developing with Cullen Bunn and Scott Hampton.
Hampton, who created the original graphic novel, is producing alongside Cyriaque. Known among horror readers for its psychological dread and atmospheric visuals, The Upturned Stone centers on a mystery that pulls its characters toward an ancient evil hidden beneath the surface of reality. The adaptation aims to expand the graphic novel’s mythology while preserving the tone that earned it a devoted following.
“The moment I read The Upturned Stone, I knew it had the potential to become a landmark horror film,” said Cyriaque. “Scott Hampton created something truly disturbing and unforgettable. Our goal is to deliver a film that captures the fear, atmosphere, and emotional depth that made the graphic novel resonate with readers.”
Spindell’s selection reflects the project’s commitment to filmmakers with a proven command of horror craft. His 2019 anthology film The Mortuary Collection drew wide attention for its tonal range and practical genre storytelling, establishing him as one of the more distinct voices working in independent horror.
The project is currently in development, with casting discussions underway and studio conversations ongoing. Cyriaque is also packaging Seasons, a multilingual fantasy drama spanning multiple lifetimes and cultures, with international cast attachments in progress.
Additional announcements regarding casting, production timeline, and distribution will be made in the coming months.