Wingard's Guest 2 Dream Becomes New Film Onslaught

Director Adam Wingard's latest film, Onslaught, emerges as a spiritual successor to his 2014 cult hit, The Guest. Originally, plans for a direct sequel, tentatively titled 'The Guest 2,' were discussed, even leading to the release of a fictional soundtrack in April 2022. However, the tragic passing of actor Lance Reddick in March 2023 redirected the project.

Wingard, who helmed major studio films like Godzilla vs. Kong, sought to reconnect with his independent filmmaking roots. The concept for Onslaught developed from his personal experiences, including a near-fatal hit-and-run accident and impending fatherhood. This allowed him to explore themes of trauma and parenthood.

The film is set in Moriarty, New Mexico, the same location as The Guest, and expands on its established universe. It features ties to Wingard's 2011 film You're Next, specifically referencing the defense contractor KPG and its related projects.

Onslaught stars Adria Arjona as Celeste, an ex-Army sniper protecting her community from escaped super soldiers. Dan Stevens, who starred as David Collins in The Guest, takes on a new role as Dr. Hans Kammler, a Nazi scientist connected to the KPG-verse. The film explores the lineage of KPG's super-soldier programs, potentially linking Kammler to David Collins.

Drew Starkey's character, Cyrus, serves as a thematic parallel to Lance Reddick's Major Carver from The Guest. Wingard confirmed that remnants of KPG are involved, now operating under the 'Priapus team' faction. The film also features Michael Biehn as a G-man monitoring Kammler's work.

For the first time, Wingard had final cut on Onslaught, allowing him full creative control. This independence enabled him to deliver a more personal vision after years of working within the franchise system. The film’s unique title sequence, a suggestion from A24, also enhances its narrative context.