Witchboard

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Witchboard

In New Orleans, Emily (Madison Iseman) and her fiancé Christian (Aaron Dominguez) are opening their new dream café. But their dreams are dashed when Emily finds an ancient, cursed Witchboard, an ancient artifact that once served as a gateway to the spirit world. As Emily becomes increasingly captivated by the board's ability to summon spirits, Christian seeks the expertise of Alexander Babtiste (Jamie Campbell Bower), an enigmatic occult scholar. As Emily's grip on reality weakens, Babtiste’s true intentions come to light—to use the Witchboard’s dark power for his own twisted purposes.

Culminating in a decadent masked ball at Babtiste’s mansion, the line between temptation and terror blurs as Emily and Christian find themselves trapped in a deadly web of witchcraft and dark desires. Emily and Christian must race against time to break the board's curse before they succumb to its deadly power!

Genres

Horror, Thriller

Director

CHUCK RUSSELL (The Mask, Nightmare on Elm Street 3)

Writers

CHUCK RUSSELL (A Nightmare on Elm Street 3)
GREG MCKAY

Producers

CHUCK RUSSELL (Collateral)
KADE VU
GREG MCKAY (Undercover Brother)
BERNIE GEWISSLER (Little America)
BARRY BREWER (Left On Red)

Cast

MADISON ISEMAN (Jumanji: The Next Level , Annabelle Comes Home)
AARON DOMINGUEZ ('Only Murders In The Building')
MEL JARNSON (Mortal Kombat)
CHARLIE TAHAN ('Ozrak', The Pale Blue Eye, 'Castlerock')
ANTONIA Desplat (The French Dispatch, 'Shantaram')
JAMIE CAMPBELL BOWER ('Stranger Things', The Twilight Saga)

Madison Iseman

Emily

Aaron Dominguez

Christian

Mel Jarnson

Brooke

Mel Jarnson

Brooke

Mel Jarnson is an Australian and Thai actor with the world at her feet.

At only 25, Jarnson’s life has taken her all around the globe. Born in Bangkok in 1999, to her Thai diplomat father and Australian journalist mother, Jarnson’s childhood was spent on the move, raised in Bangkok with stints in Brussels and Mumbai for her parents’ work. From an early age, Jarnson was a performer. There were several evenings, she cringes, when she sat her parents down to watch evocative interpretive dance routines to The Nutcracker score of Paula Abdul.

As a child, her imagination was always in overdrive. Convinced that what she saw on television was real, Jarnson was certain that Middle Earth existed after frequent rewatches of LORD OF THE RINGS. Her mother corrected her, and told her that the closest thing that she could get to Middle Earth was by becoming an actor – her path was set. Jarnson’s drama classes became a consistent and familiar force as the family moved around the world when she was a child. Jarnson has a memory from when she was living in Mumbai, of visiting a Bollywood set and seeing actors Deepika Padukone and Neil Mukesh at work. “They looked like gods to me. They looked larger than life,” she recalls.

She was scouted as a teenager at an airport and offered a role on a popular Thai soap opera. Her memories of that time were sheer terror: of learning to hit her mark, remember her lines and not to let down any of the other cast and crew who were depending on her. “I just remember feeling paralysed,” she says. “It was not the magical experience that I had always thought it would be.”

After school, Jarnson made the decision to relocate to her literal mother country: Australia. If drama classes were one consistent element of her childhood, so too were the regular Christmases spent in Adelaide, where her mother’s family is from. To Jarnson, Australia represented a romanticized vision of friendliness, nature, stability and family. In reality, Australia required adjustment, and though Jarnson has now lived largely in Sydney for the past eight years, it took time to settle in and find her place.

Now, Jarnson feels at home in Sydney: she loves walking for hours through new neighbourhoods, going horse riding and getting frozen yoghurt before visiting an arcade. (“I like childish pastimes,” she says.) Though work often takes her elsewhere, from Montreal to London, Jarnson has just picked up the keys to her first proper home in Sydney, an exciting prospect after so many months spent living out of a suitcase. “I’m so excited to actually cook my own meal, light a candle, have a bath, watch my favourite show,” she admits. “That’s when I’m the happiest. It sounds so banal, but I think it’s so exciting.”

Acting in Australia has offered up diverse projects, from television procedurals such as the ABC’s acclaimed HARROW and the uproarious 2023 Stan miniseries C.A.U.G.H.T, to the charming 2024 romantic comedy FIVE BLIND DATES, to high octane action epics including the 2022 Liam Neeson thriller BLACKLIGHT or 2021’s MORTAL KOMBAT reboot. A fantasy nerd – and keen gamer – at heart, getting the opportunity to join an iconic video game franchise was a joy for Jarnson, who thrived learning the movement and flight choreography involved to play the vampire Nitara. Key for Jarnson with all of her characters is deep preparation, all the way down to the way the characters breathe and blink.

She is most proud of her work on the forthcoming horror film WITCHBOARD, a remake of the ‘80s classic co-starring Jamie Campbell-Bower, Antonia Desplat and Madison Iseman. So much of the film was a challenge: from the genre (Jarnson is not a horror fan), to the scale of the production and, finally, the responsibility of taking on a lead role. “I really thought I would crumble under the pressure and I felt that imposter syndrome,” she admits. “I’m really proud of myself for getting through it the way I did, and hopefully also giving a performance worthy to the project.” Still, she jokes that the subject matter of the movie – and the location that they filmed in – thoroughly spooked her; she might have slept with the lights on for many nights while making the movie in Montreal, Canada.

She longs to find future roles in the fantasy realm, which remains her first love; she namechecks recent reads that range from Spider-Man to Madeline Miller’s Circe and some of her most beloved games including God of War and Horizon Zero Dawn. She is intrigued by motion capture in the gaming industry and whether there might be a role for her in that space. It’s something she really fell for after doing so much work against a green screen in MORTAL KOMBAT. “In that environment, I actually felt the most free and ready to create and play,” she explains. “It really did feel like playing.” She wants to keep chasing that sensation; it brings her back to those childhood performances that sparked her desire to act in the first place.

Beyond acting, Jarnson has become a firm fixture in Australia’s fashion scene. She has appeared in editorials for magazines including InStyle, RUSSH, marie claire, Elle Indonesia and Stellar, and worked with both Australian brands ranging from Aje, Paspaley and Camilla & Marc to global fashion icons such as Tiffany & Co, Bvlgari and Rabanne. “While fashion definitely does allow you to literally step into someone’s shoes,” she muses. “I think what I find the most fun about fashion is its ability to make you feel like yourself.”

Mel Jarnson is represented by CBM Management, Untitled, A1 and Priscilla's

Charlie Tahan

Richie

Antonia Desplat

Naga Soth

Jamie Campbell Bower

Baptiste

Jamie Campbell Bower

Baptiste

Jamie Campbell Bower has inhabited key characters in various blockbuster franchises, while quietly asserting himself as a dynamic 21st century leading man. The UK-born actor, entertainer, songwriter, and artist has become embedded in the mythos of Harry Potter, The Twilight Saga, Mortal Instruments, Fantastic Beasts, and, as of 2022, NETFLIX’s most popular original series Stranger Things. At the same time, he has left his imprint on music, fronting the critically acclaimed alternative rock band COUNTERFEIT and building a fan favorite solo catalog hailed by NME as “challenging and macabre.” Jamie’s highly anticipated forthcoming feature films include: Kevin Costner’s Horizon, Noémie Merlant's EMMANUELLE, and Chuck Russell’s Witchboard.

Jamie initially captivated audiences as Anthony in Tim Burton’s 2007 gothic musical extravaganza SWEENEY TODD: THE DEMON BARBER OF FLEET STREET alongside Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter. After appearing in Guy Ritchie’s ROCKNROLLA with Gerard Butler and Idris Elba, he assumed the role of Caius in THE TWILIGHT SAGA: NEW MOON [2009] and THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN – PART 1 [2011] and PART 2 [2012] before co-starring in THE MORTAL INSTRUMENTS: CITY OF BONES [2013]. On the small screen, he starred as King Arthur in CAMELOT and as Christopher Marlowe in WILL. Meanwhile, 2018 saw him appear in FANTASTIC BEASTS: THE CRIMES of GRINDELWALD. However, he ascends to the forefront of the global conversation as Vecna/Henry/001 in STRANGER THINGS where he plays the show’s much-talked about villain. He will next be seen starring in Kevin Costner’s forthcoming feature HORIZON, slated for theatrical release by Warner Bros./New Line on June 28, 2024.

During 2020, he kicked off his solo career with the single “Paralysed.” Right out of the gate, Rock Sound raved, “it’s absolutely beautiful.” It only sets the stage for his forthcoming independent debut EP and much more to come. In May 2022, Jamie released his single “Run On" followed by Gothic Country inspired "I Am" and the emotional "Heaven In Your Eyes" for which Jamie Co-created the videos and visuals. Most recently Jamie released latest single titled "Home" written with collaborator Ryan Necci. He also announced hard rock project BloodMagic to critical acclaim with the single Death / Rebirth.

Chuck Russell

Director/Producer/Writer

Director's Statement

My first two films as a director were both horror films – Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors and The Blob. I saw both as opportunities to expand on classic horror franchises.
By “expand,” I mean both visually, with practical and optical effects… as well as emotionally, through deeper characters, updated story elements and even touches of dark humor… all the while taking care to honor the originals.
After those first two films, I had the opportunity to explore other genres I love, including action, comedy, thrillers, big studio star-driven productions and small independents… But
I always intended to return to horror.
WITCHBOARD is the third in my personal trilogy of fantasy/horror films …and a chance to top my own work in the genre. It’s also a continuation of my experiments in terrifying
an audience while using the inspiration of classic tales.
WITCHBOARD is based on a resonant 80s franchise that launched the Ouija Board subgenre in horror. Like The Blob, it had a catchy premise that earned it a special place in pop culture. It also had a sense of the bond of friendships we have as young people leaving their school years behind. I feel we’ve been true to the roots of the original, while taking a deeper dive into a more frightening and imaginative supernatural world. By using the history of Wiccan practices as inspiration, particularly the use of pendulum boards, the ancient predecessor to Ouija boards, we’ve dramatized a form of spiritual evil never seen before in the genre. Pendulum Boards, also known as Spirit Wheels, were outlawed by the French Pope in the 1700s and were used as “evidence” in witchcraft trials
that led to infamous forms of torture and death.
On a technical note, I’ve noticed that no matter how good CGI may be, physical effects tend to be much more frightening and kinetic. They also create more believable reactions in cast members, who tend to be on edge when filming real time physical action. All the stunts and horror set pieces on WITCHBOARD happened live on set, with CGI used only
for “cleanups” and minor enhancements, (with the exception of fire elements when things got too hot!) The results are some of my best scares.
WITCHBOARD features an exciting cast, including genre favorite, Jamie Campbell Bower, in the role of occult expert Alexander Babtiste. Jamie is well known for his incredible work in Stranger Things and such films as Mortal Instruments and the Twilight series. Our lead actress is Madison Iseman, known for her work in the Annabelle and Jumanji franchises, who is outstanding in the film. Rounding out this great ensemble cast are the amazing
Aaron Dominguez (Only Murders in The Building), Charlie Tahan (Ozark), Mel Jarnson (Mortal Combat) and Antonia Desplat (Shantaram and Johnny Depp’s upcoming, Modi).
I sincerely hope you enjoy WITCHBOARD.

Chuck Russell, Director

Photo courtesy of Atlas Distribution &amp;amp; The Avenue.

Witchboard - Red Band Trailer

The spirits demand blood, gore, and chaos. Witness the carnage in the Red Band Trailer. WITCHBOARD, from horror master Chuck Russell. Starring Madison Iseman and Jamie Campbell Bower.

Video courtesy of The Avenue.

The board is ready to claim its next player 🩸

💰Gala Films is offering a chance to enter to win 💲100,000 USD in $FILM crypto. Step up, take the call, complete the ritual, and claim your reward.
The audience has already fallen under its spell—now it’s your move. Will the board choose you?
Terms and conditions apply, limited supply. See link in bio to summon your chance to win!

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Open to legal residents of the U.S. & D.C. (excluding FL & NY), 18+. Must have a Gala Film account. Limit 1 entry per person/account. Begins 8/15/25 & ends 10/31/25. Odds depend on number of eligible entries. Winners notified by email. Sponsor: Blockchain Game Partners, Inc. d/b/a Gala Film. Not sponsored, endorsed, or administered by Facebook, Instagram, X, or Discord. Official Rules: https://gofilm.gala.com/witchboard_giveaway_tnc.

Video courtesy of The Avenue.

LEARN HOW TO ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN

They warned you it was wicked fun. But they forgot to mention the body count. 💀

If you survived the scares and loved it, drop your review on Rotten Tomatoes and IMDb

Photo courtesy of The Avenue and Atlas Distribution.

RATE THE FILM

Madison Iseman as “Emily” in the horror film, WITCHBOARD.

Photo courtesy of The Avenue and Atlas Distribution.

Official Clip: Can’t Sleep

There's no rest for the wicked. #Witchboard is waiting. In theaters this Friday.

video courtesy of The Avenue.

Madison Iseman as “Emily” in the horror film, WITCHBOARD.

Photo courtesy of The Avenue and Atlas Distribution.

[L-R] Madison Iseman and Director, Co-Writer & Producer Chuck Russell behind the scenes of the horror film, WITCHBOARD.

Photo courtesy of Atlas Distribution & The Avenue.

It hears you—even when you don't speak.

Babtiste (Jamie Campbell Bower) knows the veil between worlds is thinner than you think. Step closer. Dare to look into his eyes. But beware: the answers aren't always what you seek. 🖤🔮Choose Your Fate.

Video courtesy of The Avenue.

[L-R] Renee Herbert as “Asha 1” and Elisha Herbert as “Asha 2” in the horror film, WITCHBOARD.

Photo courtesy of The Avenue and Atlas Distribution.

He wanted a future with her... the board had other plans

The Board is Waiting.

Video courtesy of The Avenue.

Madison Iseman as “Emily” in the horror film, WITCHBOARD.

Photo courtesy of The Avenue and Atlas Distribution.

An image from the horror film, WITCHBOARD.

Photo courtesy of The Avenue and Atlas Distribution.

[L-R] Mel Jarnson as “Brooke,” Jamie Campbell Bower as “Alexander Babtiste,” Madison Iseman as “Emily” and Aaron Dominguez as “Christian” in the horror film, WITCHBOARD.

Photo courtesy of The Avenue and Atlas Distribution.

Jamie Campbell Bower as “Alexander Babtiste” in the horror film, WITCHBOARD.

Photo courtesy of The Avenue and Atlas Distribution.

[L-R] Mel Jarnson as “Brooke” and Aaron Dominguez as “Christian” in the horror film, WITCHBOARD.

Photo courtesy of The Avenue and Atlas Distribution.

[L-R] Mel Jarnson as “Brooke,” Jamie Campbell Bower as “Alexander Babtiste” and Aaron Dominguez as “Christian” in the horror film, WITCHBOARD.

Photo courtesy of The Avenue and Atlas Distribution.

Countdown to the curse begins.

In one month, unlock the board. Unleash the terror. You’ve been marked.

Video courtesy of The Avenue.

Get Tickets

Jamie Campbell Bower as “Alexander Babtiste” in the horror film, WITCHBOARD.

Photo courtesy of The Avenue and Atlas Distribution.

Aaron Dominguez as “Christian” in the horror film, WITCHBOARD.

Photo courtesy of The Avenue and Atlas Distribution.

[L-R] Jamie Campbell Bower as “Alexander Babtiste” and Madison Iseman as “Emily” in the horror film, WITCHBOARD.

Photo courtesy of The Avenue and Atlas Distribution.

Madison Iseman as “Emily” in the horror film, WITCHBOARD.

Photo courtesy of The Avenue and Atlas Distribution.

Actions have consequence

If you like this, then you'll love this! Watch Now

Video courtesy of The Avenue.

The cat knows. 👁 Something wicked is coming home…

Buy or rent Witchboard starting September 16. Pre-order Now.

Video courtesy of The Avenue and Atlas Distribution.

The Coven has spoken. 🕯️ Are you ready to join?

Comment “🔮” if you’re in. Answer the call.

Video courtesy of The Avenue and Atlas Distribution.

Behind The Buzz

Witchboard - Digital Release Date, Cast, and Where to Watch

September 15, 2025

Highland Film Group launching AFM sales on Fantasia entry ‘Witchboard’ from ‘The Mask’ director Chuck Russell

October 31, 2024