DUST BUNNY writer/director Bryan Fuller

Dec 9, 2025

Bryan Fuller, known for his work in television and horror, dives into the realm of gateway horror films, exploring how family-friendly scares sparked his passion for the genre. He praises the tonal balance of classics like 'Gremlins' and discusses the joy of directing child actors, particularly Sophie Sloan. The conversation also touches on the influence of music scores in shaping emotional experiences and the origins of the PG-13 rating, leading to a nostalgic reflection on films that blend fright with wonder, highlighting pivotal flicks from his childhood.

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ANECDOTE

Actor Reinvents Accent In Two Weeks

Sophie Sloan taught herself a flat American accent via TikTok to win the lead in Dust Bunny.
Fuller recounts she learned it in two weeks and returned to audition successfully.

ADVICE

Let Kids Play On Set

Encourage child actors to play and try different things; their instincts can reveal unexpected truth.
Fuller says giving kids permission to experiment often uncovers performances adults can't stage.

INSIGHT

Gateway Horror's Tonal Power

Gateway horror mixes family-friendly tones with real horror to pull audiences deeper into the genre.
Bryan Fuller calls that tonal juxtaposition the kinetic energy that made 70s–80s films invite deeper horror exploration.

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