Reel Horror News Roundup: August 4 - August 10, 2025

LOCAL TEEN FOUND DEAD IN LOCKED BEDROOM 

Springwood Gazette – July 27, 1985

Authorities are investigating the fatal stabbing of Ronald Grady, 17, whose body was discovered in his locked bedroom late Saturday night. 

Grady was last seen with his good friend Jesse Walsh earlier that evening.

Police say there were no signs of forced entry, leaving investigators puzzled as to how the killer gained access. Officials describe the circumstances as “deeply troubling.”

🎞️ Based on A Nightmare on Elm Street 2: Freddy’s Revenge (1985), the chilling sequel in Wes Craven’s legendary horror franchise.

August Horror Highlights Weapons, Strange Harvest, and Jimmy and Stiggs

August 2025 offers a thrilling mix of horror with Weapons’ dark witchcraft tale, Strange Harvest’s supernatural serial killer mystery, and the wild alien bender in Jimmy and Stiggs. Variety’s roundup has the full list of chilling new releases to watch this month.

🎞️ Read: Top Horror Movies to Watch This August (Variety)

Inside Weapons: Zach Cregger's Genre-Bending Horror

In a recent interview with the Associated Press, director Zach Cregger delves into the making of his latest horror film, Weapons. Set in the fictional town of Maybrook, Illinois, the film follows the mysterious disappearance of 17 children from a single classroom. Cregger discusses the challenges of blending horror and humor, emphasizing the importance of authentic reactions over scripted jokes. The film features standout performances from Josh Brolin as a grieving father and Julia Garner as a determined teacher, both navigating the chaos and paranoia that ensue. Cregger's approach to storytelling aims to reflect the absurdity and desensitization present in modern society.

🎞️ Read: Weapons Interview (Associated Press)

Weapons: A Chilling Blend of Mystery and Horror

Zach Cregger’s Weapons delivers a haunting narrative that intertwines the mysterious disappearance of 17 children with a deep dive into the complexities of human nature. The film's anthology-style storytelling, coupled with standout performances from Julia Garner and Josh Brolin, crafts a chilling atmosphere that keeps audiences on edge. Critics have lauded its ability to blend suspense with emotional depth, making it a must-watch for horror enthusiasts. 

🎞️ Read: Weapons Review (The Hollywood Reporter)

In non-Weapons news...

"HIM" Unveils Chilling First Trailer: The Price of Fame

The first full-length trailer for HIM, a new horror film produced by Jordan Peele, has been released, offering a glimpse into a disturbing tale set against the backdrop of professional football. Starring Marlon Wayans as legendary quarterback Isaiah White and Tyriq Withers as his protégé Cameron Cade, the film explores the dark side of ambition and fame. 

Peep the new trailer here. (GamesRadar)

Derry's Darkest: Ranking Stephen King's Most Terrifying Tales

Collider ranks all five of Stephen King's novels set in the haunted town of Derry, Maine. Topping the list is It, the iconic tale of Pennywise the Dancing Clown. Following closely are 11/22/63, Insomnia, Bag of Bones, and Dreamcatcher, each contributing to the eerie tapestry of Derry's dark history. The article delves into the unique elements of each novel, offering insights into King's exploration of this cursed locale.

🎞️ Read: Every Stephen King Novel Set in Derry, Ranked (Collider)