‘The Ruse’ – ‘Malevolence’ & ‘Bereavement’ Director Stevan Mena Returns With New Horror Movie [Trailer]

Director Stevan Mena came onto the horror scene back in 2003 with the indie slasher Malevolence, which ended up launching a trilogy that grew to include Bereavement (starring Alexandra Daddario!) and Malevolence 3: Killer. Seven years after the trilogy wrapped up, we’ve learned that Mena is back this summer with a brand new horror movie titled The Ruse.

Mena Films has announced that The Ruse will be available for rental and purchase on VOD beginning Tuesday, August 14. The film originally debuted in theaters on Friday, May 16.

Starring Veronica Cartwright (Alien, The Witches of Eastwick), Madelyn Dundon (Getting Grace), and Michael Steger (The Chosen, 90210), the film promises a “chilling whodunnit that keeps audiences on edge until the final frame.” Watch the trailer for The Ruse below.

The story follows Dale (Dundon), a home health care worker sent to a remote seaside home after her predecessor mysteriously vanishes. Upon arrival, Dale finds herself caught in a web of chaos—faced with an uncooperative patient, strange neighbors, and increasingly terrifying supernatural events.

Is the house haunted, or is there something even more sinister at play? As tensions rise and trust erodes, Dale begins to fear for her own life—and for the safety of the patient in her care.

Written and directed by Stevan Mena (Malevolence, Bereavement), The Ruse also features Michael Bakkensen, T.C. Carter, Kayleigh Ruller, and Nicola Silber.