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Horror anthology Arbor Day: The Root of Evil debuts at the legendary Smodcastle Cinemas in Atlantic Highlands, NJ. The film, a personal triumph for co-owner Michael Jayne following a stroke, explores terrifying Pine Barrens legends. Join the premiere on April 24, 2026, and help the environment: for every ticket sold, a tree is planted in a forest of need through the Arbor Day Foundation.

The moment Darkstone Entertainment fans have waited for has arrived! Three of the studio’s most influential independent horror films, including the notorious The Fright Before Christmas series and the fan-favorite The Jester, are officially available to stream on Relay: Stream Movies and TV. Dive into this trio of cult classics that helped define a particular era of fearless, DIY indie horror.

Episode 22 of The Big Damn Podcast explores how Big Damn Films shaped a new horror icon while finishing production on Arbor Day: The Root of Evil.

This teaser is just the first cutting; but Arbor Day: The Root of Evil isn't just about the terror, it's about giving back. The producers are proud to announce a new partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation. For every ticket sold during the film's theatrical run, a portion of the proceeds will go to planting a tree, helping to restore forests and give back to the earth.

Big Damn Films officially wrapped production on the micro-budget horror anthology, Arbor Day: The Root of Evil. Shot in Southern New Jersey, this feature introduces New Horror Icon, a supernatural killer tied to Arbor Day folklore. Post-production begins immediately for an early 2026 release.

Big Damn Films just wrapped principal photography on Arbor Day: The Root of Evil, and Michael jumps on the mic to share a quick update. Hear why this milestone matters, what comes next in post-production, how the team pulled it off, and why this marks a true new chapter for Big Damn Films.

Michael & Logan unveil Big Damn Films’ next era — Arbor Day: The Root of Evil, a micro-budget horror anthology and cult-fan strategy.

After losing our dream filming location in May and Michael’s stroke shortly after, we’ve had to adjust plans for Z*Con. The film is still happening—our script is complete, much of the cast is confirmed, and we’re committed to finishing it right.