Producer Chris Ferguson and his production studio Oddfellows have secured a first-look deal with Warner Bros. Picture Group, cementing the company's position as a major player in prestige horror. The pact gives Warner Bros. first access to projects developed by Ferguson and Oddfellows across film and television.
Ferguson's track record speaks volumes. Oddfellows produced Neon's breakout hits "Longlegs" and "The Monkey," both directed by Oz Perkins. "Longlegs" became a cultural phenomenon in 2024, grossing over $100 million globally and establishing Perkins as a major horror auteur. "The Monkey," released this year, continued that momentum with another critical success.
The deal reunites Ferguson with key executives. Christian Parkes, Jason Wald, and Spencer Collantes, who previously worked with Ferguson at Neon, now oversee Clockwork, Warner Bros.' genre-focused label. This existing rapport matters in Hollywood. Clockwork has already built credibility as a specialized imprint for horror and elevated genre content, positioning itself as an alternative to traditional mainstream horror studios.
Warner Bros. clearly recognizes the value of Oddfellows' output. Horror remains one of streaming's strongest performers and theatrical horror continues pulling audiences despite industry headwinds. First-look deals give studios strategic advantage by securing emerging talent before competitors move in. For Ferguson, the arrangement provides production financing and distribution backing without sacrificing creative independence.
The timing reflects broader studio trends. Majors increasingly court independent producers with proven commercial and critical success rather than relying solely on in-house development. Oddfellows' partnership with directors like Perkins demonstrates the studio's ability to identify and nurture auteur-driven horror that attracts both discerning critics and mainstream audiences.
This deal positions Oddf