AUSTIN, Texas — "Texas Cult House" celebrated its premiere at Austin Film Festival on Oct. 24. The film delves into the horrors of surviving childhood trauma.
Austin, a gay teen, went on a journey exploring the traumas of his past and present while partying in Deacon Jones’ abandoned home, a famous local cult leader.
Unknown to Austin’s friends, his mother relocated him and his siblings to Deacon after his father’s passing, resulting in Austin carrying the burden of that trauma.
This film ties in tension with horror in a seamless, but effective way. Shot entirely at director Julia Barnett’s house, the film effectively depicts how personal fears and convictions can lead to unexpected journeys.
The film utilized a small budget and limited locations but was still effective in telling a unique story.
Talking about the film industry in Texas and the desire to bring more films to the state, producer Mindy Raymond touched on how her “mission in life is for Texas to be the epicenter of media and production.”
Julia Barnett highlighted the significance of premiering this film in Texas, saying, “This is a seriously Texas movie, the whole vibe to it and everything, so I think it is a really good fit.”
Barnett also took the time to hint at a prequel for the film, "Texas Cult House 1989", which will also be shot in Texas.