Starring Sarah Paulson, Here Are a Series of Interesting Facts About the Psychological Thriller Film ‘HOLD YOUR BREATH’, Terror in the Midst of a Dust Storm

HOLD YOUR BREATH is inspired by classic horror films such as THE SHINING (1980) and THE OTHERS (2001). Directors Karrie Crouse and Will Joines strive to build an atmosphere of psychological terror that gradually seeps into the audience's mind, similar to the approach used in those films. HOLD YOUR BREATH also marks the directorial debut for Crouse and Joines.

This film is set during the Great Depression in 1933, one of the most difficult periods in American history. With high unemployment rates and widespread poverty, this setting adds depth and emotional pressure to its characters.

In addition to THE SHINING and THE OTHERS, directors Karrie Crouse and Will Joines were also inspired by Ken Burns' documentary DUST BOWL. They managed to capture the despair and psychological tension caused by the dust storms, making it not only a physical setting but also a symbol of deep inner suffering for its characters.

Zoe White, as the cinematographer, presents stunning and impactful visuals. The visual elements in this film are inspired by DAYS OF HEAVEN (1978), where dust and nature serve as significant characters to create a bleak atmosphere that continuously haunts the audience.

The visual effects in HOLD YOUR BREATH were handled by an experienced team, Dale Fay and Werner Hahnlein. They succeeded in creating a dust storm that looks very realistic, giving the impression that nature is fighting against humanity, thereby increasing the intensity of fear throughout the film.

Sarah Paulson reaffirms her position as one of the leading actresses in the horror and drama genres. Known for her role in AMERICAN HORROR STORY, Paulson delivers a truly impressive performance as Margaret Bellum. She manages to express a range of emotions—from confusion and anger to fear—so perfectly that it makes the audience truly feel and connect with her struggles throughout the film.

Paulson's stunning performance as a mother is also enhanced by the outstanding acting of two young stars, Amiah Miller as Rose (the eldest daughter) and Alona Jane Robbins as Ollie (the youngest daughter).

Before being known by the title HOLD YOUR BREATH, this film was originally developed under the name DUST. This project began in 2020 with Claire Foy initially planned to be the lead actress, but was later replaced by Sarah Paulson.

Although set in Oklahoma, most of the filming for this movie took place in New Mexico. This location was chosen because its landscape resembles the areas affected by dust bowl, with stretches of barren land that add to the eerie atmosphere throughout the story.