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Ma 2019
Psychological horrorTeenTeen horror
A 2019 American psychological horror film, Ma was written by Scotty Landes and directed by Tate Taylor. The movie features Octavia Spencer, Juliette Lewis, Diana Silvers, Corey Fogelmanis, Gianni Paolo, McKaley Miller, and Luke Evans in a story about teenagers who connect with a reclusive middle-aged woman. She invites them to a party in her basement, which turns into a terrifying experience for them. The production was handled by Jason Blum through his Blumhouse Productions company, alongside Taylor and John Norris.
The project originated from Taylor's wish to create a film exploring "something fucked up" and Spencer’s goal of moving beyond typical roles she plays. Taylor and Spencer have collaborated previously in movies such as The Help and Get on Up. In 2018, Taylor and Blumhouse Productions started working on the film together, with Taylor directing, Landes writing, Blum producing, and Spencer starring. Principal filming began in February 2018 and concluded in March 2018 in Mississippi, including scenes shot in Natchez.
Ma premiered in the United States on May 31, 2019 under Universal Pictures. Critics gave it mixed feedback, appreciating the acting—especially from Spencer and Lewis—but pointing out issues with pacing and unmet potential. The film earned $61.2 million domestically against a $5 million budget. It has since attracted a devoted online fanbase. A sequel is currently in development.
Cast
- Octavia SpencerSue Ann "Ma" Ellington
- Kyanna Simoneyoung Sue Ann
- Diana SilversMaggie Thompson
- Juliette LewisErica Thompson
- Skyler Joyyoung Erica
- Corey FogelmanisAndy Hawkins
- Gianni PaoloChaz
- McKaley MillerHaley
- Luke EvansBen Hawkins
- Andrew Matthew Welchyoung Ben
- Missi PyleMercedes
- Nicole Carpenteryoung Mercedes
- Dante BrownDarrell
- Tanyell WaiversGenie Ellington
- Allison JanneyDr. Brooks
- Dominic BurgessStu
- Tate TaylorOfficer Grainger
Crew
- Director
- Tate Taylor
- Writer
- Scotty Landes
- Producer
- Jason Blum, Tate Taylor, John Norris
- Cinematography
- Christina Alexandra Voros
- Editing
- Jin Lee, Lucy Donaldson
- Music
- Gregory Tripi
Details
- Production
- Blumhouse–Atomic Monster, Wyolah Films
- Distributor
- Universal Pictures
- Budget
- $5 million
- Box office
- $61.2 million
