With horror enjoying a full-blown resurgence—from intimate psychological chillers to festival-driven indie nightmares—the space has become richer, riskier, and far more experimental. Sitting within this evolving wave is Blood & Rust, a project still taking shape but already carving out its own identity. In an exclusive interview with Netflix Junkie, Ross Partridge spoke about what anchors the film’s early vision, how its humanity drives the horror, and why its quieter approach might end up cutting deeper than loud scares.

Shedding light on the same, Partridge revealed three striking reasons this emerging horror project deserves early attention, even before it reaches the New York City Horror Film Fest on December 7, 2025.

One quality that consistently defines Jeremy Herbert’s work is his ability to blend horror with genuine psychological depth. When Ross Partridge reflected on his experience of working with Herbert, he was quick to say how he was “pretty hands-off.” Throughout the filming, Herbert was allowed to have as much fun as possible while also working on his intentions.

Duffer Brothers Drop Major 'Stranger Things' Spoiler: Fate of a Main Character at Risk

Partridge described him as a deeply “visual director,” someone “conscientious” about what the story needs as it unfolds. That “seamless,” playful atmosphere allowed the cast to experiment within scenes without hesitation. According to Partridge, Herbert’s “easy approach” is a big part of what makes Blood & Rust a compelling entry for this year’s Horror Film Festival.

Another reason that should make Blood & Rust your next watch is the use of prosthetics in the film. Talking to us, Ross Partridge said that during the filming, they were doing a “lot of crazy things,” including “prosthetics.” This approach places Blood & Rust firmly in the company of genre entries where practical effects are not just an add-on but a backbone.

In Stranger Things, which might arrive earlier than expected, the creature design for Vecna involved hundreds of prosthetic pieces applied meticulously, with the team declaring the final look was built “90% practical” (via Vanity Fair). Likewise, Frankenstein’s latest iteration received accolades for its astounding prosthetics on the central monster, underscoring that real physical craft still carries visceral impact. It is this same hands-on horror DNA that Ross says Blood & Rust embraces.

For Ross Partridge, the soul of Blood & Rust lies in its devotion to how everything was “practically done,” which he found “really cool to see.” Together, the director’s trust-driven style, the cast’s freedom to play, and the film’s reliance on tactile horror paint a clear picture of why Blood & Rust stands out. 

As it heads to the New York City Horror Film Fest, Partridge’s insights suggest a project shaped by passion, precision, and a commitment to craft. Blood & Rust may still be in its post-production phase, but everything he shared points to a film made with intention: one that values atmosphere, performance, and the tactile artistry that defines memorable horror.

Fact Check: Did Netflix Really Leak the ‘Stranger Things' Season 5 Trailer Early?

Are Ross Partridge's reasons enough for you to catch Blood and Rust at the New York City Horror Film Fest? Let us know in the comments below.