The Rise of Auditory Horror: How Podcasts and Sound Design Are Reshaping the Genre
A24’s undertone, arriving in theaters this Friday, March 13, 2026, isn’t just another horror film. it’s a signpost pointing toward a significant shift in the genre. The film, centered around a paranormal podcast host haunted by mysterious recordings, taps into a growing fascination with auditory horror – a subgenre that leverages sound design and the intimacy of listening to create uniquely unsettling experiences.
From Found Footage to Found Audio
For years, found footage films like Paranormal Activity dominated the low-budget horror landscape. These films created a sense of realism by presenting events as if discovered recordings. undertone builds on this foundation, but instead of visual “discovery,” it focuses entirely on audio. This is a natural progression, given the increasing popularity of podcasts and audio dramas. The film’s director, Ian Tuason, describes it as a “found audio movie and a soundscape above all else.”
This shift isn’t merely stylistic. Sound has a unique power to bypass conscious defenses. Unlike visual stimuli, which can be consciously analyzed, sound often triggers primal emotional responses. A creaking floorboard, a whispered voice, or an unexplained static can be far more unsettling than a jump scare on screen.
The Podcast Effect: Intimacy and Immersion
The film’s premise – a paranormal podcast host investigating unsettling recordings – is particularly resonant in today’s media landscape. Podcasts have cultivated a sense of intimacy and trust with listeners. The conversational format and the feeling of “over-the-shoulder” participation create a powerful connection.
By framing the horror within a podcast narrative, undertone exploits this pre-existing intimacy. The audience isn’t just watching a story unfold; they’re eavesdropping on a private investigation, experiencing the fear alongside the protagonist. This immersive quality is a key element of the film’s appeal.
A24 and the Recent Wave of Horror
A24 has turn into synonymous with innovative and critically acclaimed horror. Films like Hereditary and Heretic have pushed the boundaries of the genre, attracting both dedicated horror fans and a wider audience. Their support of undertone signals a continued commitment to exploring new and unconventional approaches to scares.
This commitment extends beyond horror. A24’s collaborations with artists like Charli XCX demonstrate a willingness to experiment with different mediums and storytelling techniques, further solidifying their position as a tastemaker in the entertainment industry.
The Future of Fear: What’s Next for Auditory Horror?
undertone is likely to inspire a wave of similar projects. People can expect to see more horror films and audio dramas that prioritize sound design and immersive audio experiences. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) technologies could further enhance this trend, allowing audiences to experience horror in a truly three-dimensional and interactive way.
The success of undertone also highlights the potential for blending horror with other genres. The film’s exploration of themes like grief, caregiving, and personal trauma adds depth and complexity to the scares. This trend toward thematic resonance is likely to continue, as filmmakers seek to create horror that is both frightening and thought-provoking.
Did you know?
The film was shot inside writer/director Ian Tuason’s childhood home in Toronto, inspired by his own caregiving experience.
FAQ
What is auditory horror?
Auditory horror is a subgenre of horror that focuses on creating fear and suspense through sound design, rather than relying heavily on visual effects.
When is undertone released?
undertone is scheduled for theatrical release on March 13, 2026, in the United States.
Who stars in undertone?
The film stars Nina Kiri, Adam DiMarco, and Michèle Duquet.
Is undertone rated R?
Yes, undertone has been rated R by the Motion Picture Association (MPA) for language.
Where was undertone filmed?
undertone was filmed in Rexdale, a neighbourhood in Toronto, Canada.
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