Award-Winning Short Film 'Disfigura' Starring Doug Jones Premieres on Alter

Festival Circuit Darling Starring Doug Jones Lands on YouTube Horror Channel with 3M+ Subscribers

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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The award-winning psychological thriller 'Disfigura,' starring Doug Jones, has made its online debut on the YouTube horror channel Alter. The film, set in 1950s America, follows a forward-thinking housewife named Anya who becomes increasingly unsettled by her husband George's strange new behaviors and a terrifying truth behind the word 'Disfigura.' Jones appears as a Rod Serling-style host, ushering audiences into a meticulously crafted thriller that channels classic Hitchcock suspense, noir atmosphere, and sharp social critique.

Why it matters

The film has earned multiple accolades on the festival circuit, screening at prestigious events like Screamfest, FilmQuest, and the Cannes Indie Shorts Awards. Its success highlights the continued demand for high-quality, thought-provoking horror content that blends classic genre elements with contemporary social commentary.

The details

Directed by Toni Blando and Jake Bradbury, 'Disfigura' features standout performances, especially from lead actress Lex Cappiello. The film's moody, black-and-white, mid-century aesthetic was achieved through the work of cinematographer Oleg Tcherkas, editor Elena Tcherkas, and production designer Nic Weethee. Composer Alexander Andresen's score builds tension to dramatic heights, evoking the work of suspense master Bernard Herrmann.

  • The film premiered online on the Alter YouTube channel on February 12, 2026.

The players

Doug Jones

An American actor known for his roles in various science fiction, fantasy, and horror films, including 'The Shape of Water' and 'Hellboy.'

Lex Cappiello

The lead actress in 'Disfigura,' playing the role of Anya, a forward-thinking housewife.

Toni Blando

The co-director and writer of 'Disfigura,' who drew inspiration from classic films and TV shows like Hitchcock and 'The Twilight Zone.'

Jake Bradbury

The co-director and executive producer of 'Disfigura,' who shepherded the project from development through its successful festival run.

Alter

A YouTube horror channel with over 3 million subscribers, which is now the online home for 'Disfigura.'

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What they’re saying

“It's really thanks to our deep love for classic films and TV, like Hitchcock or The Twilight Zone, that made this one shine.”

— Toni Blando, Co-Director and Writer (EINPresswire.com)

What’s next

The film's success on the festival circuit and its premiere on the popular Alter YouTube channel suggest that it may continue to gain attention and recognition within the horror genre.

The takeaway

The premiere of 'Disfigura' on Alter demonstrates the continued demand for high-quality, thought-provoking horror content that blends classic genre elements with contemporary social commentary. The film's festival success and the involvement of talented filmmakers and actors like Doug Jones highlight the vibrant state of the independent horror film scene.