In an exclusive with Variety Shout! Factory announced that they will be expanding into original productions starting with ‘Fender Bender.’ The film, described as a throwback to the horror films of the 80’s will be written and directed by Mark Pavia (The Night Flier) and is set to go into production this year in New Mexico.

‘Shout!’ has long been the source for classic content from both television and film, some of which may have been lost to time if not for their amazing DVD and Blu-Ray transfers. They distribute everything from long running kids show ‘Power Rangers’ to cult classic ‘Mystery Science Theater 3000’ and so much more. Through their sub-brand ‘Scream Factory’ they have released some of the greatest horror films of all time. The amount of hard work they put into the extra content for these releases alone is inspiring. If they put some much as half that energy into their original content we’re in for a real treat.

The company’s head of acquisitions Jordan Fields is confidant that they’ll be able to make the transition smoothly and strike a chord with horror audiences.

“Over the last few years we’ve built up credibility with these fans, we know this audience. We know where they live and what they love.”

The great team over at ‘Shout!’ hopes that this movie will be the first of many. Their plan is to be able to produce one or two films annually.

“We’re hoping that it’s the first of many, we have been in discussions and negotiations on other original projects, but ideally we’d like to get this one finished before we greenlight another one.” – Shout! Factory founder Garson Foos.

This is excellent news, both for fans and filmmakers. A great company like ‘Shout!’ getting into production means more opportunities for great films to be made and distributed to the masses. I can’t wait to see how ‘Fender Bender’ turns out and I hope Shout! Factory continues to grow and prosper.