What inspired Ian Tuason's horror film 'Undertone'?

Ian Tuason's horror film 'Undertone' was inspired by his personal experience caring for his terminally ill parents during the COVID-19 pandemic and their subsequent deaths.

Where was the indie horror film 'Undertone' filmed?

'Undertone' was filmed entirely in Ian Tuason's childhood home in Rexdale, Toronto, the same house where he cared for his dying parents.

What is the premise of Ian Tuason's debut feature 'Undertone'?

'Undertone' follows Nina Kiri as Evy, a paranormal podcaster who moves home to care for her mother and begins listening to recordings of a couple experiencing a haunting.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Filmmaker's Grief Fuels New Indie Horror

Filmmaker's Grief Fuels New Indie Horror

3 Feb

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Summary

Filmmaker's personal tragedy inspired his directorial debut.
The horror film was shot in the director's childhood home.
The movie explores themes of caretaking and loss.

Filmmaker's Grief Fuels New Indie Horror

Filmmaker Ian Tuason's debut feature, 'Undertone,' is set for a March theatrical release by A24, following its acclaimed premieres at Fantasia and Sundance. The film is noted for its terrifying, immersive sound design and has been called profoundly scary by critics.

Tuason revealed that 'Undertone' is deeply personal, stemming from his experiences caring for his parents after their terminal cancer diagnoses in early 2020. The pandemic made hospital care difficult, prompting Tuason to move back to his childhood home in Rexdale, Toronto, to provide care.

During his parents' illness and eventual deaths, Tuason drew inspiration from creepypasta and his childhood fear of 'The Exorcist.' He transformed his earlier radio play concept into the script for 'Undertone,' exploring the trauma and fear he witnessed and experienced.