Joseph Kahn’s New Film, ICK, Blends Comedy and Horror
Joseph Kahn, a Grammy Award-winning director, has crafted a unique offering for movie aficionados: ICK. It’s a sci-fi horror comedy packed with humor, valuable life lessons, and just the right amount of suspense, all set to a nostalgic soundtrack filled with pop, punk, and rock beats.
“I wanted to create something for the whole family,” Kahn explains. “It’s not meant to be hurtful. ICK balances comedy and horror—it’s a thrilling ride.”
The story centers on Hank (Brandon Routh), once the Prom King with ambitions to marry his prom queen Stasi (Menas Bali), escape the small town of Eastbrook, and become an NFL star. Fast forward, and life has taken a turn. Stasi never realizes her dream of NFL fame, settling instead into a high school life with Peter Wong’s character. Together, they’ve raised a daughter named Grace (Marina Weissman), living comfortably in their small-town bubble.
In a contrasting narrative, Hank has become a 45-year-old struggling alcoholic who runs a bar and teaches science at the same high school he once ruled. Grace, who may or may not be Hank’s daughter, is one of his students, adding an intriguing twist to their relationship.
“Brandon has an incredible comedic timing,” Kahn notes, admiring Routh’s performance in the film, acknowledging the influence of Scott Pilgrim.
Dream casting also came in the form of Mena Suvari. “I thought there was no way we could land her,” Kahn recalled, reflecting on how luck played into their casting choices.
Another character is a peculiar plant-like substance, dubbed “The Ick,” that has progressively enveloped the town over two decades. Kahn muses on modern monsters, recalling the golden age of Hollywood horror. He fears that family-friendly thrillers like Gremlins and Ghostbusters may be relics of the past.
“There’s definitely a small-town feel to it. It feels like Hollywood has abandoned this sort of storytelling,” he says. “What happens when monsters invade? Today, I wonder if people would just ignore it or come together.”
As Hank approaches a showdown with the growing menace of The Ick, Kahn cleverly engages conspiracy theorists and skeptics, adding a layer of humor to the narrative.
ICK touches on themes of aging, parental love, and the significance of family bonds, especially as Hank faces his traumatic past and current responsibilities as a father figure.
Musically, the film boasts an impressive soundtrack featuring hits from the 2000s, handpicked by Kahn. “I reached out to some artists, including Blink 182,” he shared.
With a score laid out by a full orchestra, Kahn emphasized the care taken in production. “It took about a year to collaborate with our visual effects and music teams.”
Despite the obstacles posed by the pandemic, Kahn pivoted to independent filmmaking, choosing to direct ICK himself. He began its production in 2023 and plans to showcase it at film festivals in the fall of 2024, with a nationwide release set for summer 2025.
Ultimately, Kahn identifies the emotional core of ICK as the exploration of parental love and identity. “Is Hank really Grace’s father? The question looms large, but it appears he takes on that role wholeheartedly.” Kahn firmly believes that choosing to care for someone transcends bloodlines.
ICK is slated for release on various dates in July 2025. For ticket information, you can check online.
