Paramount+ releases exclusive photos from the upcoming psychological thriller, set to debut this September

Paramount+ has unveiled a series of new images from their highly anticipated psychological thriller, Apartment 7A, offering fans a closer look at the eerie Bramford building and its mysterious residents. This prequel to Roman Polanski’s 1968 horror classic Rosemary’s Baby promises to delve into the dark history of the infamous apartment complex.

Scheduled for release on September 27, 2024, Apartment 7A is directed by Natalie Erika James, known for her work on Relic. The film features a stellar cast, including Julia Garner (Ozark, Wolf Man), Dianne Wiest (Mayor of Kingstown), Jim Sturgess (Across the Universe), and Kevin McNally (Pirates of the Caribbean series). Supporting roles are filled by Marli Siu (Anna and the Apocalypse), Andrew Buchan (Carnival Row), Rosy McEwen (Blue Jean), and Kobna Holdbrook-Smith (Wonka).

The story follows Terry Gionoffrio, an ambitious young dancer portrayed by Julia Garner, who dreams of making it big in New York City. Her aspirations are dashed when she suffers a devastating injury, but an older, wealthy couple, played by Dianne Wiest and Kevin McNally, offers her a place to stay in the luxurious Bramford apartment building. When a fellow resident and influential Broadway producer (Jim Sturgess) offers her a second chance at fame, it seems like all her dreams are about to come true. However, after an evening she cannot fully remember, Terry begins to question the sacrifices she is willing to make for her career. She soon realizes that something sinister lurks within Apartment 7A and Bramford itself.

The film, a Paramount+ original in association with Paramount Pictures, is based on Ira Levin’s novel Rosemary’s Baby. Natalie Erika James co-wrote the screenplay with Christian White and Skylar James, who also penned the original story. The production team includes Vicki Dee Rock and Alexa Ginsburg as executive producers, with John Krasinski, Allyson Seeger, Michael Bay, Andrew Form, and Brad Fuller serving as producers.

Apartment 7A will be part of Paramount+’s Peak Screaming collection, which features a wide range of new originals, beloved horror movies, and iconic Halloween-themed episodes from popular series. As Halloween approaches, viewers can look forward to exploring the sinister history of the Bramford building before Rosemary Woodhouse ever moved in.

In anticipation of the film’s release, Paramount+ has shared several images showcasing the film’s atmosphere and characters:

• Julia Garner as Terry Gionoffrio and Jim Sturgess as Alan Marchand.
• Dianne Wiest as Minnie Castavet, Julia Garner as Terry Gionoffrio, and Kevin McNally as Roman Castavet.
• Amy Leeson as Rosemary Woodhouse and Julia Garner as Terry Gionoffrio.
• Multiple shots featuring Julia Garner and Dianne Wiest, hint at the tension and mystery surrounding their characters.

These images provide a tantalizing glimpse into the chilling world of Apartment 7A, setting the stage for a psychological thriller that promises to expand on the terrifying legacy of Rosemary’s Baby.

Analysis

Political

Apartment 7A arrives during a period of renewed interest in the dynamics of power and control. The film’s themes of manipulation and exploitation can be viewed as a reflection of broader societal concerns. The wealthy couple’s influence over Terry mirrors real-world discussions about the power dynamics between the elite and the vulnerable. The psychological thriller genre often explores these themes, and this film is poised to contribute to ongoing debates about inequality and autonomy.

Social

The film’s exploration of ambition and sacrifice resonates with contemporary societal issues. Terry’s journey highlights the pressures faced by individuals pursuing their dreams, particularly in competitive fields like the arts. This narrative can spark conversations about mental health, the cost of success, and the lengths people are willing to go to achieve their goals. Bramford’s sinister environment serves as a metaphor for the darker side of ambition and the potential consequences of compromising one’s values.

Racial

While Apartment 7A primarily focuses on its horror elements, it also touches on issues of identity and belonging. The diverse cast and setting in a culturally rich city like New York offer opportunities to explore racial dynamics subtly. The interactions between characters from different backgrounds can provide insight into the complexities of race and inclusion within the context of a psychological thriller.

Gender

The film prominently features strong female characters, including Terry and Minnie Castevet. Terry’s struggle and the manipulative actions of the older couple can be seen as a commentary on gender power dynamics. The narrative may explore themes of exploitation, control, and resilience, offering a platform for discussions about women’s experiences in the face of adversity. The psychological thriller genre often delves into these themes, making Apartment 7A a relevant addition to conversations about gender and empowerment.

Economic

The luxurious setting of the Bramford and the characters’ socio-economic statuses highlight issues of wealth and privilege. Terry’s initial allure to Bramford’s opulence and the subsequent realization of its sinister underpinnings reflect the often deceptive nature of wealth. The film’s economic subtext can be interpreted as a critique of materialism and the moral compromises people make in the pursuit of financial success.