EXCLUSIVE: Go Behind the Monster of Tom Chaney’s New Bigfoot Nightmare, SQUATCH

Fresh off a triumphant, sold-out world premiere at the Bigfoot Days Festival in Estes Park, CO, director Tom Chaney (Frostbiter: Wrath of the Wendigo) is back to prove that the woods are still terrifying. To celebrate the film’s festival success, we have an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the practical magic bringing a legend to life.

The Legend Reborn
SQUATCH follows a young man (Jack Chaney) who returns to his estranged father’s remote cabin to find answers about his mysterious death. However, he quickly learns that some family secrets are better left buried—especially when those secrets involve the legendary Sasquatch. What begins as a somber drama quickly spirals into a brutal battle for survival against America’s most iconic apex predator.

Meet the Monster
Bringing the titular beast to life is former professional wrestler Jacob Southwick (known to fans as Madman Fulton). Standing as a massive physical presence, Southwick’s performance as the creature is a masterclass in primal aggression.

But a monster is only as good as its skin. The stunning creature effects seen in our exclusive clip were helmed by FX veteran David Greathouse. Eschewing CGI for a “boots-on-the-ground” practical approach, Greathouse has crafted a Bigfoot that feels visceral, heavy, and terrifyingly real.

A Midwest Horror Reunion
In addition to newcomers Jack Chaney and Paige Weishuhn, SQUATCH serves as a reunion for fans of the cult hit Thorns. The film brings back stars Cassandra Shomer, Jon Bennett, and Bo Shumaker, rounding out a cast that knows exactly how to navigate the dark, claustrophobic atmosphere Chaney is known for.

Watch the exclusive FX breakdown below to see how David Greathouse and Jacob Southwick transformed a wrestling powerhouse into the king of the woods.