Nick Toti and Rachel Kempf, the filmmakers behind the cult horror hit "It Doesn't Get Any Better Than This," are launching their next project with characteristic defiance of industry norms. The duo made headlines by refusing to release their breakout film on streaming, VOD, or physical media, preserving it as a theatrical-only experience in an era when most independent horror finds its audience through digital platforms.
Now they're unveiling "Homebody," their follow-up ghost story, with a trailer exclusive to Variety. The film represents another ambitious swing from the directing partners, who've built a reputation for unconventional distribution strategies and creative control in the horror space.
What makes this announcement particularly noteworthy is the pair's stated ambition to remake "Homebody" itself. This unconventional approach echoes a broader trend in horror cinema where filmmakers revisit and reimagine their own work, though Toti and Kempf's plan suggests confidence in both the original concept and their evolving creative vision.
The indie horror landscape has shifted dramatically in recent years. Platforms like A24 have legitimized boutique horror through theatrical releases, while filmmakers increasingly leverage word-of-mouth and festival circuits to build devoted fanbases before any distribution deals. Toti and Kempf's strategy aligns with this movement, prioritizing creative autonomy over immediate monetization.
Their refusal to expand "It Doesn't Get Any Better Than This" into traditional distribution channels proved both a commercial and cultural statement. It positioned the film as an event, creating scarcity value and cult appeal in an oversaturated streaming environment where thousands of titles compete for attention daily.
"Homebody" carries similar theatrical ambitions. By maintaining this exclusive approach while simultaneously planning a remake, Toti and Kempf signal they're thinking beyond single releases. They