Shudder Snaps Up New Zombie Horror ‘This Is Not a Test’: Indie Film Buzz Explodes!

The Independent Film Company together with Shudder has secured the rights to Adam MacDonald’s new horror film about a zombie apocalypse, titled “This Is Not a Test.” The movie is based on a widely popular young adult novel by Courtney Summers, a New York Times best-selling author. The cast includes Olivia Holt (“Heart Eyes”), Froy Gutierrez (“The Strangers”), Luke MacFarlane (“Bros”), Corteon Moore (“Overcompensating”), Chloe Avakian (“John Wayne Gacy”), and Carson MacCormac (“Clown in a Cornfield”).

“This Is Not a Test” is MacDonald’s fourth project with IFC Entertainment Group, following his earlier films “Backcountry,” “Pyewacket,” and “Out Come the Wolves.” The distribution agreement covers several regions including the US, UK, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand. The film is slated for theatrical release in 2026 by the Independent Film Company and Shudder.

The film’s storyline revolves around Sloane and a group of her schoolmates who barricade themselves in their high school as their town descends into chaos. With danger looming at every turn, Sloane’s perspective shifts as she joins forces with peers desperate to survive, pushing her to take decisive action.

Adam MacDonald shared his enthusiasm about adapting Courtney Summers’ novel, praising its compelling narrative and complex characters. He expressed his excitement about Olivia Holt portraying Sloane, and is confident in the film’s success under the stewardship of the Independent Film Company and Shudder. MacDonald, along with producer Cybill Lui, assembled a top-notch team to craft a film that promises to be both thrilling and emotionally resonant, offering hope amidst a catastrophic scenario.

Adam Koehler, Director of Acquisitions and Productions at Independent Film Company, praised MacDonald for his unique ability to infuse genre films with authenticity and emotional depth. He highlighted the company’s excitement about introducing “This Is Not a Test” to audiences, particularly those who appreciate horror that is as emotionally engaging as it is terrifying.

The film’s production was led by Cybill Lui from Anova Pictures alongside Adam MacDonald. The rights negotiation was handled by Adam Koehler for the Independent Film Company and Shudder, with Lui representing the creative team.