Melissa Barrera Faces a Closet Creature in ‘Your Monster’

Your Monster, starring Melissa Barrera, blends dark humour, romance, and horror in a modern feminist fairytale that reimagines what it means to confront your demons—literally. Directed by Caroline Lindy, this romantic-comedy-horror lands in UK and Ireland cinemas on 29 November, courtesy of Vertigo Releasing.
Barrera stars as Laura Franco, a struggling actress recovering from both a serious illness and a devastating breakup. Returning to her childhood home, she hopes to find solace, but instead discovers a Monster (Tommy Dewey) living in her bedroom closet. Initially terrified, Laura soon realises that the creature is as witty as he is unnerving. As their unlikely relationship develops, the Monster becomes her confidant and ally, helping her to confront her manipulative ex-boyfriend and reclaim her life.

The film explores themes of self-discovery, empowerment, and rage as Laura channels her experiences into a renewed sense of purpose. Supported by standout performances from Meghann Fahy (The White Lotus), Edmund Donovan (Civil War), and Kayla Foster (Call Jane), Your Monster offers a uniquely heartfelt and comedic take on what it means to face personal and external battles.

Adapted from Lindy’s 2019 short film, Your Monster debuted in the Midnight section of the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, earning praise for its sharp dialogue and bold fusion of genres. Lindy describes the project as a love letter to embracing inner strength and individuality, themes brought to life by Barrera’s captivating portrayal of Laura.

Shot over 20 days in Hoboken, New Jersey, the production relied on the tight-knit collaboration of an indie filmmaking team. Barrera has spoken about the creative freedom and collaboration that indie projects like Your Monster offer, calling the experience “incredibly satisfying.” Her dedication is evident in a performance that cements her reputation as one of the most versatile talents in contemporary genre cinema.

Vertigo Releasing, known for championing independent films like Sound of Metal and Boiling Point, brings Your Monster to UK audiences following its US release in October. With its quirky yet empowering message and a balance of laughs and scares, the film is a must-watch for fans of genre-defying films. It joins a growing roster of horror comedies that are redefining what the genre can achieve, from exploring personal resilience to tackling societal expectations with a sharp, supernatural twist.

Catch Your Monster in cinemas on 29 November.

Your Monster trailer