Jessica Chastain stars in dual roles for horror film Other Mommy trailer

Universal Pictures has unveiled the first official trailer for *Other Mommy*, a supernatural horror film starring Jessica Chastain in a dual role, set for a theatrical release on October 9, 2026. The film, based on Josh Malerman’s 2024 novel *Incidents Around the House*, follows a young girl named Bela who forms a disturbing bond with a sinister entity in her home that resembles her mother. The trailer, released alongside Christopher Nolan’s *The Odyssey* in theaters, has already sparked intense reactions from horror fans, with some describing it as “terrifying” and “unsettling.”

Directed by Rob Savage, known for *Host* and *The Boogeyman*, *Other Mommy* emphasizes psychological tension over conventional jump scares. The story centers on Bela, portrayed by Arabella Olivia Clark, whose family grapples with an otherworldly presence that mimics her mother’s appearance. Jessica Chastain plays both Bela’s biological mother and the malevolent “Other Mommy,” a role that highlights her versatility as an actress. The trailer suggests a narrative that blurs the boundaries between familial love and supernatural dread, with the entity initially appearing harmless before revealing its threat.

Chastain’s return to the horror genre is a notable moment for fans, as it follows a seven-year hiatus since her role in *It: Chapter Two* (2019). Her previous horror work includes *Crimson Peak* (2015) and *Mama* (2013), with her performances often praised for their emotional depth and chilling intensity. The film’s screenplay, written by Nathan Elston, adapts Malerman’s novel, which explores themes of isolation and the uncanny. The production team includes James Wan, producer of *The Conjuring* and *Saw*, alongside Blumhouse and Atomic Monster, studios renowned for their contributions to modern horror.

The trailer’s impact has been immediate, with audiences expressing fear and fascination. One viewer described the experience as “wtf” after encountering the preview before *The Odyssey*, while another noted their spouse’s alarm, mistaking the trailer for a horror film. The film’s promotional strategy leveraged its placement alongside a major summer blockbuster, positioning it as a standout release for the fall horror season. Despite the lack of explicit gore, the trailer’s atmosphere of unease and the ambiguity of the “Other Mommy”’s true nature have left viewers unsettled.

The cast also includes Jay Duplass as Bela’s father, Dichen Lachman, Arian Moayed, and Karen Allen, with supporting roles adding layers to the family dynamic. The film’s focus on psychological horror aligns with recent trends in the genre, prioritizing suspense and character-driven storytelling. Savage’s direction, combined with Wan’s production expertise, underscores the project’s ambition to deliver a fresh take on the supernatural thriller. With its acclaimed creative team and Chastain’s star power, *Other Mommy* is poised to become one of the most anticipated horror films of 2026.

As the release date approaches, the film’s marketing has emphasized its ability to evoke fear through atmosphere rather than overt horror tropes. The trailer’s restrained approach—focusing on eerie sounds, distorted reflections, and the gradual unraveling of Bela’s reality—has generated speculation about the entity’s origins and motivations. For Chastain, the role represents a return to the genre that first showcased her range, while for audiences, it promises a chilling exploration of the unknown. Whether the film will live up to the hype remains to be seen, but its early reception suggests it has already made an impression.