Imagine being so terrified by a movie that it changes how you feel safe in your own home. That’s exactly what happened to Madelaine Petsch when she first watched The Strangers as a teenager. But here’s where it gets controversial: could a film so unsettling actually redefine how we perceive fear? In a recent interview with IndieWire, Petsch revealed how Bryan Bertino’s 2008 home-invasion thriller left an indelible mark on her, setting the stage for her role in Lionsgate’s The Strangers: Chapter 3, hitting theaters on February 6.
The original film, inspired by real-life horrors like the Manson murders, feels chillingly plausible—a fact Petsch highlights as its most haunting quality. ‘It’s not just a movie; it’s a reminder that this could happen to anyone,’ she explained. That lingering unease, paired with the film’s infamous cliffhanger ending, left her—and countless viewers—wondering: What happens next?
And this is the part most people miss: When Petsch was approached about a trilogy of interconnected spinoffs, she was initially skeptical. ‘Who’s trying to remake this masterpiece?’ she thought. But what she discovered wasn’t a remake at all. Instead, producer Courtney Solomon envisioned a trilogy that would re-anchor the franchise, starting with The Strangers: Chapter 1 (2024), which deliberately mirrors the original’s visual and narrative style. ‘It’s a bold move,’ Petsch noted, ‘a way to honor the past while setting up something entirely new.’
The trilogy, directed by Renny Harlin, was shot back-to-back, giving Petsch a rare opportunity to map out her character, Maya, across three films. ‘As an artist, having that kind of long-form storytelling is a dream,’ she said. Originally planned for rapid release, the trilogy spanned four years due to reshoots and logistical challenges. Yet, the result is a psychological endurance test—not just for Maya, but for the audience.
Here’s the bold part: Petsch believes Maya blurs the line between protagonist and antagonist, a daring choice for horror. ‘She becomes unapologetic,’ Petsch explained, ‘and that’s what makes her fascinating.’ This approach also underscores a key distinction between film and television—a topic Petsch, known for Riverdale, is passionate about. ‘Film allows for a deeper layer of intention,’ she said. ‘You can craft choices that resonate over time.’
What’s even more surprising? Petsch didn’t just star in the trilogy; she became a producer, collaborating on rewrites, shot lists, and casting. ‘It wasn’t about the credit,’ she clarified. ‘It was about being trusted to contribute.’ For her, horror is the genre that thrives on such trust, pushing boundaries and creating unforgettable characters.
As for the future of The Strangers, Petsch doubts the franchise will ever truly end. ‘These villains are too iconic,’ she said. ‘Someone will always want to revisit them.’ Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, The Strangers: Chapter 3 promises to keep you on the edge of your seat—and maybe even change how you answer the door.
Thought-provoking question for you: Does horror lose its impact when it becomes a franchise, or does it gain something by expanding its world? Let’s debate in the comments!
