Justin Long’s Deadly Lice Horror Locks In a Killer Release Date

Justin Long is apparently back in the horror game—this time, the enemy isn’t a demon or a haunted house, but… lice. Yep, actual lice. If you’re thinking that sounds like something out of a fever dream pitched after an all-night 1980s marathon, you’re not wrong. Here’s what’s up with Lice, possibly the only movie where a head-scratching problem turns into literal mayhem.

What’s the Deal With Lice?

Lice isn’t just a goofy concept—there’s some actual talent here. The movie is the directorial debut for Jonathan Bensimon, and Magenta Light Studios has just locked up North American rights. Oh, and if you’re a fan of creepy '80s throwbacks, buckle up: the story is set in a Long Island high school during the 1980s, just as a very gross parasite outbreak hits.

The plot is gloriously bonkers: once the school is quarantined by the military, the students start losing it, going full Lord of the Flies as they freak out over an itch they can’t stop scratching. Picture 'The Faculty,' but instead of aliens, it’s bugs making you lose your mind.

Who’s On Board?

Here’s the breakdown of the main characters—because let’s be real, part of the fun is seeing which actor loses it first:

• Justin Long as Principal Van, a well-meaning school leader who very quickly realizes he is totally unprepared for this level of chaos.
• Emile Hirsch as Mr. Shanker, the science teacher who’s checked out of life and now gets dragged into parasite investigation duties. You can just imagine the resignation.
• Kevin Connolly as Detective Sikorski, apparently the only one trying to hold it together as he tries to keep the outbreak from spreading.

The cast is pretty stacked with up-and-coming and familiar faces too: Emilie Bierre, Joelle Farrow, Riley Davis, Tom Keat, Annamarie Kasper, Cooper Levy, Christian Meer, Gage Munroe, Devyn Nekoda, Sabrina Saudin, and Milton Torres Lara all join the lice-infested party.

Release Date News (Finally)

So when can you watch everyone lose their minds over these creepy-crawlies? Lice isn’t hitting theaters tomorrow—or any time this year. The current plan is first quarter of 2027. Yes, you read that right: somewhere between January and March 2027. Stash this one on your long-term horror calendar.

The Vibe: Throwback Mayhem

The filmmakers aren’t shy about their ambitions, either. Director Bensimon describes the movie like this:

'We always wanted Lice to feel like a visceral, throwback thrill ride—something pulpy, unsettling, and darkly funny all at once. Working with this cast and creative team let us push that tone in unexpected ways, balancing chaos with character.'

And, in case you’re wondering how this very specific concept won over the studio, Magenta Light Studios CEO Bob Yari basically called the movie a smart and wildly original ride that juggles suspense, real emotion, and some truly messed-up humor.

Behind the Scenes

Kevin Connolly isn’t just starring—he’s producing alongside Jeremy Alterc, with Bob Yari and David Spiegelman executive producing. So, plenty of hands on deck for keeping the lice (and cast members) under control.

Bottom line: if you’re into horror that goes all-out weird with a retro setup, Lice is probably headed for your watchlist. Just don’t blame me if you start scratching your head halfway through.