AFM: Epic Acquires Serial Killer Slate, Taps UFC Star Donald Cerrone for ‘Winter: Battleground,’ Shares ‘Jester 2’ First Look (EXCLUSIVE)
by Alex Ritman · VarietyEpic Pictures Group has made a number of announcements on the first day of the American Film Market.
The indie production, finance and distribution house has acquired a slate of features depicting the real-life stories of notorious serial killers, including “Ed Kemper,” “Dorothea” (about Dorothea Puente), “The Devil’s Disciple” (Richard Ramirez) and “The Golden State Killer” (about Joseph James DeAngelo). The deal was negotiated by Patrick Ewald, CEO of Epic, and director Chad Ferrin (“Night Caller,” “The Deep Ones”).
“Ed Kemper” has wrapped production, “Dorothea” starts production this month, while “The Devil’s Disciple” and “The Golden State Killer” are currently in development.
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“Prepare to explore the chilling crossroads of true crime and horror with ‘Ed Kemper,’ the first in Dread’s new Serial Killer Collection,” said Ewald. “As one of the world’s most infamous serial killers, Kemper’s story is both disturbing and captivating—perfect for launching this gripping series. We’re delving into the twisted psyche of these notorious figures to deliver a bone-chilling experience that goes beyond horror and taps into the terror of real-life monsters.”
Meanwhile, Epic has also announced that UFC legend Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone is set to lead “Winter: Battleground,” a sci-fi action film slated for release in early 2025. Director by David Christopher Pitt, the film will see Cerrone will play battle-hardened warrior in a post-apocalyptic world, where he must lead a team against powerful forces in an AI-controlled wasteland. The film is currently in post-production, with Epic showcasing footage and a trailer at the AFM.
“With Donald ‘Cowboy’ Cerrone leading the charge, we’re thrilled to take audiences on a thrilling journey through a dystopian world where courage and camaraderie are the ultimate weapons,” said producer Jeffrey Decker. “This project marks an exciting new chapter for Cowboy, and we can’t wait to share it with the world.”
Elsewhere, Epic has also revealed a first look photo for horror “The Jester 2,” which wrapped filming last month and is due for release in 2025. Written and directed by Colin Krawchuk (“The Jester,” “Initiation,” “Victory: A Star Wars Story”), “The Jester 2” is the following up to Shudder’s “The Jester”, and stars Michael Sheffield (“The Jester,” “Behind Closed Doors”), Kaitlyn Trentham (“Haven,” “Murder Made Me Famous”), Hassen Kacem (“Out of the Box Office,” “The Spot”), Jessica Ambuehl (“Black Mold,” “Shakespeare’s Mummy”), and Dingani Beza (“The Carmichael Show,” “The Cool Kids”). The film will reveal a new look for The Jester, a malevolent supernatural trickster.
“Launching the original ‘Terrifier’ proved what it takes to create a horror icon, and now, with ‘The Jester,’ we’re witnessing lightning strike twice,” said Ewald. “The runaway success of the first film shattered our expectations and made it clear that fans crave daring and unforgettable horror. With The Jester 2, we’re raising the stakes and pushing the limits even further, crafting a storyline that’s haunting, intense, and impossible to forget. This isn’t just a sequel; it’s the next chapter in building a legacy. Horror fans are in for one wild ride—they’d better hold on tight!”