Third Culture Content has launched Night Market Studios, a Singapore-based genre production company focused on Asian storytelling. The Conjuring writers Chad Hayes and Carey Hayes join the venture as executive producers, bringing their horror credentials to the slate.
Night Market Studios debuts four films at the Cannes Film Market, positioning itself as a dedicated label for genre content rooted in Asian perspectives and talent. The company operates under Third Culture Content, which was co-founded by Janis Chua and Sean Dulake. This move signals growing industry interest in Asia-Pacific production hubs and international genre filmmaking beyond traditional Hollywood pipelines.
The Hayes brothers bring substantial horror pedigree to Night Market. They penned The Conjuring franchise entries and its spinoff Annabelle films, which grossed over $1 billion collectively. Their involvement legitimizes Night Market's genre ambitions while providing mentorship for emerging Asian filmmakers seeking to break into global horror and thriller markets.
Singapore's emergence as a production base reflects broader streaming and studio investment in the region. Companies recognize that Asian markets represent massive audiences with distinct storytelling traditions, visual languages, and horror sensibilities that Western audiences increasingly crave. The city-state offers robust production infrastructure, tax incentives, and access to regional talent pools.
Genre films have become the gateway format for international breakout successes. Bong Joon-ho's Parasite proved Korean cinema's global appeal. Train to Busan established zombie films as a pan-Asian export. Night Market's focus on horror, thrillers, and elevated genre content aligns with what international audiences actively seek.
The Cannes Film Market unveiling places Night Market Studios among serious contenders rather than experimental ventures. Cannes provides access to distributors, streamers, and financiers critical for getting films greenlit and theatrical releases secured. This positioning matters for a studio betting on Asian creators breaking