Momentum Picturesrecently released the first trailer forSwallowed, a new body horror film fromThe Ruinsdirector Carter Smith starring Jena Malone and Mark Patton.
The LGBTQ-themed bodyhorrorfilm hit the festivals with favorable responses, including playing at Fantasia, FrightFest, and Screamfest to praise from audiences and critics alike. This is Smith’s second major horror hit following 2008’sThe Ruins, the story of a Mexican trip gone tragically wrong for a group of young adults when they slowly realize the terrible legacy of the ancient ruins they visit.
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TheSwallowedtrailer follows the misadventures of two childhood friends, Cooper Koch (They/Them) and newcomer Jose Colon, who travel over the Canadian border to sample and transport a supposedly new and potent drug. There, they meet Alice, played by Jena Malone (The Ruins,The Neon Demon), who gives them specific instructions on smuggling the unknown substance back across the border. When the men are forced to sample the product, they quickly realize the horrific news of their cargo while navigating the nature of their own history and relationships. The film also stars Patton, known for his classic performance in the 1980s cult favoriteFreddy’s Revenge.
Smith’sThe Ruinshas steadily become a fan favorite via streaming platforms. Its blend of classic teen horror tropes meets body horror shines as a raucous, relaxing trip to Mexico turns horrific. It appears Smith revisits similar ideas inSwallowed, with the strangeness of new places and familiar horrors playing a role,combined with LGBTQ-centered themes.
Swallowedis especially anticipated by horror fans as the return of Patton, who, as chronicled in his 2019 documentaryScream Queen: My Nightmare on Elm Street, virtually disappeared from Hollywood after his role in theNightmare on Elm Streetsequel. In theSwallowedtrailer, he plays a mysterious pusher of the horrific new substance/creature.
In addition toThe Ruins, Malone has also appeared in several horror and sci-fi favorites, includingThe Neon Demon,The Hunger Gamesfranchise, andNocturnal Animals. She also has a role in the upcoming space operaRebel Moon.
Swallowedis set for VOD and digital release on July 18, 2025.
