How it unfolded
On March 27, 2026, the highly anticipated horror comedy film Forbidden Fruits had its world premiere at the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival in Austin, Texas. This event marked a significant moment for actress Lili Reinhart, who stars as the lead character, Apple, a mall employee who leads a witchy femme cult.
The film, directed by Meredith Alloway and co-written by Alloway and Lily Houghton, was filmed in Toronto between March 10 and April 4, 2025. It features a notable cast, including Victoria Pedretti and Lola Tung, contributing to the film’s appeal. With a running time of 1 hour and 43 minutes, Forbidden Fruits is set to be released in theaters on the same day as its premiere.
In the lead-up to the premiere, Reinhart expressed her excitement about the film, stating, “It’s a movie that has an incredibly large fan base that I had no idea existed until the movie was announced, which is amazing.” This sentiment reflects the growing anticipation surrounding the film and its unique premise.
Reinhart’s character, Apple, is described as a compelling figure who navigates the complexities of leading a cult within the confines of a mall. This role represents a departure from her previous work, showcasing her desire to explore diverse characters. She noted, “I just think each project I do, I want to be so different from the last,” highlighting her commitment to evolving as an actress.
The film’s distribution is handled by IFC Films and horror streamer Shudder, indicating a strategic partnership aimed at reaching a broad audience. As the horror genre continues to gain traction, Forbidden Fruits positions itself within this trend, appealing to fans of both horror and comedy.
As Reinhart continues to build her repertoire following the conclusion of Riverdale in 2023, her involvement in The Love Hypothesis, based on a novel by Ali Hazelwood, further demonstrates her versatility and ambition in the film industry. This trajectory suggests a promising future for the actress as she takes on varied roles.
As of now, the excitement surrounding Forbidden Fruits remains palpable, with audiences eager to see how Reinhart’s portrayal of Apple resonates with viewers. The film’s unique blend of horror and comedy, coupled with its strong cast, positions it as a noteworthy addition to the genre. Details remain unconfirmed regarding its box office performance, but the initial reception at SXSW indicates a positive outlook for the film’s release.
