Vertical, the independent film distributor known for spotlighting culturally relevant projects, has announced its acquisition of North American rights to Breed of Greed, a psychological thriller from director Ralph Hemecker (Once Upon a Time). The film is scheduled to debut Friday, September 26, 2025, in theaters and on VOD, offering both a theatrical and at-home option for audiences.
The story centers on the Wendolyn pharmaceutical dynasty, a once-powerful family whose polished façade begins to crack after the sudden death of its patriarch. As the surviving heirs gather to divide the estate, old rivalries and grudges come to the surface. What begins as an inheritance dispute escalates into something more complex. Wayward son Henry Wendolyn, played by Andrew Boszhardt, who also co-wrote and produced, discovers that greed may not be the only threat. A sinister supernatural force appears to be influencing events behind the scenes.
Hemecker co-wrote the screenplay with Boszhardt and Otto Eckstein, with the trio also producing the film. Boszhardt shared their vision: “We wanted to make a film that was topical but also timeless. Everyone enjoys a good downfall story, and we aimed to make one that is entertaining and engaging, without being preachy. We are pleased to have Vertical as our partner.”
The cast features a strong combination of seasoned talent and emerging stars. Gina Gershon (Bound, Face/Off) headlines the cast, bringing her trademark intensity. Chelsea Gilligan (Star-Crossed), Madison Lewis (Alexander IRL), and Adrian Enscoe (Dickinson) offer fresh perspectives and emotional range. Boszhardt’s dual role as star and producer adds a personal dimension to the film’s supernatural tension.
Vertical’s Senior Vice President of Acquisitions Tony Piantedosi praised the film’s tone and relevance: “Ralph has done a commendable job of balancing horror thrills with a dark sense of humor, reflecting themes of the privileged class seen in modern headlines. We look forward to presenting the film to North American audiences.”
Andrew Boszhardt and Adrian Enscoe
Piantedosi negotiated the deal for Vertical, while VMI represented the filmmakers. This acquisition further highlights Vertical’s commitment to championing distinctive stories that resonate beyond genre conventions.
Breed of Greed is set to stand out in the crowded fall release schedule. The film’s combination of supernatural suspense, biting humor, and commentary on privilege feels particularly relevant in a city where power, legacy, and influence remain central to cultural discussions. Hemecker’s genre work has long been known for blending emotional depth with spectacle, and this film appears to continue that tradition.
Vertical’s upcoming slate also underscores the company’s growing influence in the independent film scene. Alongside Breed of Greed, the distributor is preparing to release Kristin Scott Thomas’s My Mother’s Wedding (starring Scarlett Johansson, Sienna Miller, Emily Beecham, and Freida Pinto), Ron Howard’s TIFF 2024 premiere Eden (featuring Jude Law, Ana de Armas, Vanessa Kirby, Daniel Brühl, and Sydney Sweeney), and the SXSW standout The Threesome directed by Chad Hartigan and starring Zoey Deutch. These projects reflect Vertical’s ongoing dedication to merging entertainment with cultural resonance.
As September 26 approaches, Breed of Greed is shaping up to be an intriguing choice for fans of psychological thrillers, supernatural twists, and sharp social commentary. Whether you plan to see it on opening night at a Sunset Boulevard theater or stream it from home, the film promises an experience that will leave an impact long after the credits roll.