North American Deal Secured for Hayden Panettiere’s Thriller ‘Sleepwalker’
Brainstorm Media has secured North American distribution rights for the psychological thriller Sleepwalker. The film will premiere in theaters on January 9, 2026, coinciding with a day-and-date release strategy.
Overview of Sleepwalker
Produced by Verdi Productions and Leonardo DiCaprio’s Appian Way, Sleepwalker features a compelling narrative. The story centers around an accomplished artist coping with the tragic loss of her daughter. This event has left her abusive husband in a coma, pushing her into a surreal descent into darkness.
As the plot unfolds, the protagonist’s sleepwalking episodes deepen, leading her to confront enhanced visions of her husband within their home. This struggle forces her to navigate the blurred lines between reality and nightmare.
Cast and Crew
The film showcases a talented cast including:
- Hayden Panettiere (Scream)
- Beverly D’Angelo (Vacation series)
- Justin Chatwin (War of the Worlds)
- Mischa Barton (The Sixth Sense)
- Lori Tan Chinn (Orange is the New Black)
- Kea Ho (Sin City: A Dame to Kill For)
Chad A. Verdi, along with Jennifer Davisson, produced the film, supported by Phillip Watson, Michelle Verdi, Chad Verdi Jr., and Paul Luba. The executive producers include Taylor DiGilio, Sera Verdi, and Anthony Gudas.
Production Details
Brandon Auman is responsible for the script and direction of the film. The distribution deal was facilitated by Chad A. Verdi from Verdi Productions and Michelle Shwarzstein along with Alex Peters from Brainstorm Media.
Future Prospects
Chad A. Verdi expressed his confidence in Brainstorm Media’s strategic marketing approach, which positioned them as the top choice for domestic distribution. He emphasized Hayden Panettiere’s “emotionally charged” portrayal of a grieving mother and its appeal.
Michelle Shwarzstein, CEO of Brainstorm Media, shared enthusiasm about collaborating with Verdi Productions. She hinted at the film’s potential in captivating audiences with its intense psychological elements.
Brainstorm Media has recently released tech thriller American Sweatshop featuring Lili Reinhart, and dark comedy Psycho Therapy with actors Steve Buscemi, Britt Lower, and John Magaro. The upcoming project includes the Christmas comedy Tinsel Town, starring Kiefer Sutherland and Rebel Wilson.
