Interview by Paul Salfen
DREAD’s Die’ced: Reloaded (2025), a blood-soaked love letter to ‘80s slasher films, is slashing its way into theaters on August 8 and hitting VOD on August 12. Directed and written by Jeremy Rudd, the film expands on his viral 2023 short Die’ced, introducing the terrifying scarecrow-masked killer Benny and his prey, the resilient final girl Cassandra. In an exclusive interview with AMFM Magazine, stars Jason Brooks (Benny) and Eden Campbell (Cassandra) shared their excitement, favorite moments, and the gritty thrill of creating a modern horror classic.
“It’s not quite close enough to Halloween for us, so this is a good time to bridge the gap,” host Paul Salfen said, setting the tone for a lively chat. Both actors, lifelong horror fans, described the project as a dream come true. “I’ve always loved horror since I was young,” Brooks shared, relishing the chance to embody the unhinged Benny. Campbell echoed, “Being able to live that, but not actually have to deal with a truly horrific experience—that’s just a few weeks of fun.”
The film, set in 1987 Seattle, follows Benny’s bloody rampage after escaping an asylum, with a synth-drenched soundtrack and neon-soaked visuals evoking ‘80s nostalgia. Campbell recalled a standout moment from the set: “During the party scene, Jason totally annihilates this guy… It looked like he was actually being beaten to a pulp, but it was visually incredible.” Brooks highlighted the warehouse finale, praising the location and lighting that made the sequence “a lot of fun.”
Both actors drew inspiration from classic horror. Campbell cited Scream as her favorite, loving its iconic opening with Drew Barrymore, while Brooks named Friday the 13th’s Jason Voorhees as his go-to, alongside Halloween and Nightmare on Elm Street. Their passion for the genre fueled their performances, with Campbell embracing Cassandra’s powerful final girl moment and Brooks channeling Benny’s menacing energy.
For aspiring actors, Brooks advised persistence: “You have to do it… It’s a lot of work, and it’s worth it in the end.” Campbell added, “It’s a lot of failing your way up… You just gotta keep going.” Their “Hail Mary” moments came with Die’ced: Reloaded itself. Brooks, who also contributed special effects with his partner Naomi, took a risk by investing heavily in the film’s gruesome effects. “We spent all the money on the effects themselves instead of paying ourselves,” he said, a gamble that paid off. Campbell cherished her role as Cassandra, a character that allowed her to shine as a fierce survivor.
Getting into character was intense. Campbell prepared by isolating herself to tap into Cassandra’s anger, protecting her voice for the role’s demanding screams. Brooks, juggling stunts and special effects, described a meticulous process akin to A Beautiful Mind, ensuring safety while snapping into Benny’s chaotic mindset when “action” was called. Their teamwork with special effects artist Joe Castro elevated the film’s visceral kills, with Brooks puppeteering effects to bring the horror to life.
Despite the high stakes, the set wasn’t without humor. Brooks laughed off the lack of major goofs, joking, “Maybe I just did it so well.” His dual role as actor and effects artist gave him unique insight, allowing him to build and execute Benny’s terrifying kills. Campbell, meanwhile, is balancing acting with school, hinting at a possible West Coast return for future projects. Brooks is keeping busy with nine films this year, including The Death of Snow White, where he also directs and acts.
Die’ced: Reloaded has sparked buzz for its brutal creativity, with some calling it a worthy successor to films like Terrifierfor its unapologetic gore and memorable villain. Director Jeremy Rudd promises a deeper dive into Benny’s murky past, while Epic Pictures CEO Patrick Ewald praised the film’s “savage vision.” Horror fans are in for a treat, with both actors teasing the possibility of a sequel. “I’m down for a sequel for sure,” Campbell said, with Brooks eagerly agreeing.
As Die’ced: Reloaded carves its place in horror history, Brooks and Campbell invite fans to experience the bloody, nostalgic thrill.
Catch it in theaters or on VOD, and get ready for a slasher that’s as fun as it is ferocious. Happy early Halloween!
