The iconic “Mother of Dragons” is poised to ignite the screen once more.
Emilia Clarke, renowned for her role in Game of Thrones, stars in the upcoming horror film When Darkness Loves Us. This film is an adaptation of the 1985 novella by Elizabeth Engstrom, brought to life by writer and director James Ashcroft.
Bleecker Street has officially confirmed the acquisition of Clarke’s latest venture into the horror genre, with plans for a 2027 release, as reported by Variety. The film has recently completed its production phase in New Zealand.
The film’s chilling narrative follows a young, newlywed farm girl who is pregnant when she finds herself trapped in a cavernous underground system. She survives in complete darkness for 15 years before emerging to reclaim her previous life at any horrific cost.
Ken Sanderson, CEO of Bleecker Street, has lauded Ashcroft’s terrifying creative vision. He remarked on the exceptional ‘world-building’ achieved in the film, emphasizing the meticulously crafted subterranean world that promises to lead audiences on a harrowing journey into both literal and metaphorical darkness.
When Darkness Loves Us is a project close to Ashcroft’s heart. He shared that Engstrom’s narrative powerfully intertwines tragedy and monstrosity within its characters, who, despite their dark actions, retain a compelling humanity that resonates deeply with the audience.
Joining Clarke in the cast are Marlon Williams, Victoria Pedretti, and Natascha McElhone.
Clarke, who famously portrayed Daenerys Targaryen, has mostly avoided darker roles since her controversial final scenes in Game of Thrones. Her post-Thrones career includes the thriller Above Suspicion in 2019, followed by lighter projects like the rom-coms Last Christmas and The Pod Generation, as well as voice roles in animated films The Amazing Maurice and The Twits. She is also set to appear in the romantic drama Next Life.
Since the conclusion of Game of Thrones in 2019, Clarke has made appearances in a few television projects including her role as G’iah in Marvel’s Secret Invasion, and as Bea in the upcoming 2026 spy thriller series Ponies. In a 2026 interview with The New York Times, Clarke expressed a definitive shift away from fantasy roles, stating you would “highly unlikely” see her with dragons again.
With When Darkness Loves Us, Clarke seems to embrace a return to intense roles, portraying a character with a relentless determination reminiscent of her days as Daenerys, albeit in a context devoid of mythical creatures.
Ava Thornton is an entertainment journalist with a keen eye for the latest in Hollywood, indie films, and streaming trends.
Her work blends insider knowledge with a deep appreciation for storytelling.
