HUNTINGTON, W.Va. — A horror-thriller filmed in Huntington in 2024, "Self Help" is set for a nationwide theatrical release on Halloween through Mainframe Pictures.
The rollout will include “Mischief Night Sneak Previews” on Thursday, Oct. 30, followed by a digital release from Cineverse in early 2026, according to Dave Lavender, director of the West Virginia Film Office.
Directed and written by Emmy Award winner Erik Bloomquist and co-written by his brother Carson Bloomquist ("Founders Day," "She Came from the Woods"), "Self Help" stars Landry Bender ("Looking for Alaska," "The Sitter").
Bender plays Olivia, a college student who infiltrates a self-actualization group after her mother becomes entangled with its enigmatic anti-cult leader, portrayed by Jake Weber ("Dawn of the Dead," "Medium").
Filmed at several recognizable locations across the Greater Huntington area — including Marshall University, downtown Huntington, the Pumpkin House in Kenova, Billy Bob’s Wonderland, and the Greenbottom Wildlife Management Area — the production showcased many local landmarks and talent, Lavender said.
According to Deadline, Cineverse and its horror division, Bloody Disgusting, have acquired North American VOD and streaming rights to "Self Help," the latest feature from the Bloomquist brothers and their Mainframe Pictures banner.
The film will screen at Marquee Cinemas in Beckley, Huntington, and Triadelphia, and at Regal Cinemas in Cross Lanes and Vienna. Local showtimes are available through participating theaters. A trailer and additional information are available at Self Help.
Lavender said the film’s release timing is ideal for horror fans.
“Since West Virginia has a long string of impactful horror and suspense films — from 'Night of the Hunter' to 'The Silence of the Lambs' and 'The Mothman Prophecies' — it’s exciting during spooky season to see a fresh, West Virginia–shot horror film hit the national spotlight,” Lavender said.
“It’s a timely Halloween cinematic treat that highlights the work of local crews and extras.”
Lavender said the Bloomquists wrote the script after spending a week in Huntington, exploring locations from Billy Bob’s Wonderland to Camden Park.
“At the West Virginia Film Office, we help with about 100 productions a year, most of them small independent films like Self Help,” Lavender said.
“As a state known for our scrappy, independent spirit, it’s rewarding to see local productions achieve national theatrical, streaming, and video-on-demand distribution.”
Lavender, who also serves on the Huntington Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, said the film will put some of the region’s iconic spots in front of national audiences.
“From our historic downtown to Greenbottom and from Camp Mad Anthony Wayne to the Pumpkin House, this film showcases locations that make Huntington unique,” he said.
“Film tourism is a powerful draw, and 'Self Help' gives fans plenty of reasons to visit.”
According to Fangoria, Self Help marks Bloomquist’s ninth feature film. His previous directing credits include "Long Lost," "Ten Minutes to Midnight," "Weekenders," "Night at the Eagle Inn," "She Came From the Woods," and "Intermedium."
Bloomquist also appears in the film and has acting credits, including "Founders Day" and "High Heat" with Don Johnson.
About the West Virginia Film Office
The West Virginia Film Office is a state agency dedicated to promoting and supporting film, television, and media production throughout West Virginia. Operating under the W.Va. Division of Economic Development, the office serves as a liaison between filmmakers and local resources, helping productions find suitable locations, secure necessary permits, and connect with skilled local crews and vendors.
The office and its staff work to attract independent and major studio projects to the state, highlighting its diverse natural landscapes, historic towns, and cost-effective production environment.
In addition to marketing the state as a filming destination, the office also supports workforce development in the creative industries, fostering economic growth and expanding opportunities for West Virginians in the film and media sectors.
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With living in Florida, is there a way to be able to watch Self Help?