Get ready for a zombie apocalypse like you’ve never seen before—because This Is Not a Test is coming to theaters in 2026, and it’s already stirring up excitement. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can a zombie film truly redefine the genre while staying faithful to its source material? That’s exactly what writer-director Adam MacDonald aims to do with his adaptation of Courtney Summers’ New York Times best-selling YA novel. This isn’t just another undead rampage—it’s a story that dives deep into raw human emotion, survival, and what it means to truly live in the face of chaos.
Independent Film Company (IFC) and Shudder have joined forces to bring this gripping tale to life, securing the rights for distribution in the US, UK, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand. Starring Olivia Holt (Heart Eyes), Froy Gutierrez (The Strangers), Luke MacFarlane (Bros), Corteon Moore (Overcompensating), Chloe Avakian (John Wayne Gacy), and Carson MacCormac (Clown in a Cornfield), the film follows Sloane and her classmates as they seek refuge in their high school during a sudden zombie outbreak. And this is the part most people miss: It’s not just about survival—it’s about Sloane’s transformation as she sees the world through the eyes of those desperate to live, forcing her to take charge in ways she never imagined.
MacDonald, no stranger to IFC, marks his fourth collaboration with the company after Backcountry, Pyewacket, and Out Come the Wolves. In a statement, he shared his passion for the project: ‘Courtney Summers’ book captivated me with its raw energy and dynamic characters. I knew it had to be brought to the screen. Olivia Holt’s talent in bringing Sloane to life is exceptional, and I’m thrilled the film has found a home with IFC and Shudder, who share our passion for storytelling.’ Alongside producer Cybill Lui of Anova Pictures, MacDonald assembled a creative team dedicated to crafting a film that’s as emotionally gritty as it is intense—a rollercoaster that leaves you on the edge of your seat with a glimmer of hope.
Adam Koehler, IFC’s Director of Acquisitions and Productions, praised MacDonald’s unique ability to infuse genre filmmaking with heart and intelligence: ‘We’re excited to bring *This Is Not a Test to a new generation of horror fans craving stories that hit both the gut and the soul.’* The deal was negotiated by Koehler for IFC and Shudder, with Lui representing the filmmakers.
Here’s the bold question: In a world saturated with zombie stories, can This Is Not a Test stand out as more than just another horror flick? MacDonald and his team believe so, betting on its emotional depth and character-driven narrative to leave a lasting impact. What do you think? Will this film redefine the zombie genre, or is it just another entry in an oversaturated market? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take!
