Sundance 2026: 'undertone' Delivers Fine-Tuned Audio Horror

Ian Tucson's feature debut is a masterclass in tension and restraint, anchored by a star-making performance from Nina Kiri.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 7:23pm

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Ian Tucson's feature debut 'undertone' is a masterclass in tension, applying restraint in ways that always read like choice rather than limited resources. The film follows Evy, the skeptical co-host of a paranormal podcast, as she returns home to care for her dying mother and receives eerie audio recordings of a couple plagued by unexplained noises. Anchored by a phenomenal performance from Nina Kiri, the unfolding mystery is built almost entirely through sound, lighting, production design, and impeccable character work.

Why it matters

While 'undertone' occupies some familiar A24 territory, the emotional anchor of the storyline involving Evy and her dying mother is earned and treated with genuine gravity. The film also succeeds in delivering the first successful podcast narrative on screen, weaponizing the medium and its soundscapes to create a fresh and fine-tuned experience.

The details

Kiri delivers a star-making performance as Evy, with Tucson's confident direction and creative impulses applied with the skill of a much more experienced filmmaker. The film's use of sound, lighting, and single-location setting are particularly impressive, with the overall experience feeling like it could translate well to a stage show.

  • Ian Tucson's feature debut 'undertone' premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2026.
  • The film is set to be released by A24 next month.

The players

Ian Tucson

The Canadian filmmaker who directed 'undertone', his feature debut. He has been quickly tapped by Blumhouse and Atomic Monster to reboot the Paranormal Activity franchise.

Nina Kiri

The actress who stars as Evy, the skeptical co-host of a paranormal podcast. Her performance is being hailed as phenomenal and a star-making turn.

Adam DiMarco

The actor who plays Justin, Evy's true believer co-host on the paranormal podcast 'The Undertone'.

Michèle Duquet

The actress who plays Evy's dying mother.

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What they’re saying

“Ian Tucson's 'undertone' uses sound and performance in perfect disharmony to craft a terrifying cinematic experience.”

— Josh Korngut, Critic (dreadcentral.com)

“Kiri delivers a phenomenal, star-making performance. So much of this delicate film depends on her every move.”

— Josh Korngut, Critic (dreadcentral.com)

What’s next

The film is set to be released by A24 next month, and fans of audio horror and innovative genre storytelling are eagerly anticipating its arrival.

The takeaway

With its confident direction, creative use of sound and visuals, and a star-making performance from Nina Kiri, 'undertone' establishes Ian Tucson as a filmmaker to watch in the horror genre, one who is pushing the boundaries of what's possible with a limited scope and resources.