Syracuse Thriller 'Red Ink' Poised for Potential Franchise Launch

The film's impressive ensemble cast and innovative filmmaking techniques are generating buzz ahead of its release.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The upcoming thriller 'Red Ink' is generating significant buzz in the film industry, thanks to its intriguing premise, talented cast, and unique filmmaking approach. Set in 1949 New York, the film follows a newspaper editor-in-chief as he races to report on a mysterious affliction that prevents those affected from being captured on film. Directed by Michael Christensen and Benjamin J. Murray, 'Red Ink' employs uninterrupted, one-shot takes to immerse the audience in the urgency of the breaking news story.

Why it matters

The film's exploration of media manipulation, institutional power, and the anxieties surrounding a looming global virus resonates with contemporary concerns. Additionally, the decision to base the production in Syracuse, New York, rather than the more typical New York City, is a significant win for the central New York film industry, injecting economic activity into the region and providing opportunities for local crew and talent.

The details

The film's impressive ensemble cast includes Toby Leonard Moore ('John Wick') as the editor-in-chief, Siobhan Fallon Hogan ('Men in Black'), Tommie Earl Jenkins ('Wednesday'), and Eugene Cordero ('Loki'). The supporting cast is equally robust, featuring a mix of established and up-and-coming actors. The unique approach to storytelling, employing uninterrupted, one-shot takes, is designed to mirror the urgency of a breaking news story and immerse the audience in the real-time unfolding of events.

  • The film is currently in post-production, with a release date yet to be announced.
  • The story is set in 1949 New York, with the events unfolding over a single morning in November of that year.

The players

Toby Leonard Moore

An actor known for his role in 'John Wick', who plays the editor-in-chief of the respected Verity Press in 'Red Ink'.

Siobhan Fallon Hogan

An actress known for her roles in 'Men in Black', who also stars in 'Red Ink'.

Michael Christensen

One of the directors of 'Red Ink', employing an innovative filmmaking technique of uninterrupted, one-shot takes.

Benjamin J. Murray

The other director of 'Red Ink', collaborating with Michael Christensen on the film's unique approach to storytelling.

Incline Studios

The New York-based production company behind 'Red Ink', which chose Syracuse as the filming location for the project.

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What’s next

The film is currently in post-production, with a release date yet to be announced. Given the strong cast, the innovative filmmaking techniques, and the timely themes, 'Red Ink' is shaping up to be a significant release for the thriller genre and a potential launching pad for a new franchise.

The takeaway

The success of 'Red Ink' could pave the way for further investment in the Syracuse film industry, attracting more productions and creating more opportunities for local talent. The combination of a compelling story, a talented cast, and a strategic production location positions 'Red Ink' for a strong debut and a potentially long run.