How it unfolded
On March 27, 2026, the vibrant city of Austin, Texas, played host to the much-anticipated world premiere of Forbidden Fruits at the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival. This horror comedy film, featuring the talented Lili Reinhart, has been generating buzz within the film community, especially given Reinhart’s impressive transition from her earlier work in Riverdale.
The excitement surrounding the film reached a peak as attendees gathered to witness the first screening. Forbidden Fruits, directed by Meredith Alloway and co-written by Alloway and Lily Houghton, is based on Houghton’s play. It tells the story of Apple, a mall employee who leads a witchy femme cult, a role that Reinhart embraces with both humor and depth.
Filming for Forbidden Fruits took place from March 10 to April 4, 2025, in Toronto, where the cast, including Victoria Pedretti and Lola Tung, brought the quirky and chilling narrative to life. The film, which runs for 1 hour and 43 minutes, is set to be released in theaters on the same day as its premiere, March 27, 2026, and will be distributed by IFC Films and horror streamer Shudder.
As the lights dimmed in the theater, Lili Reinhart took a moment to reflect on her journey. “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,” she shared, highlighting the unexpected support for the project. Her enthusiasm for the film is palpable, and she expresses a desire to diversify her roles, stating, “I just think each project I do, I want to be so different from the last.”
Reinhart’s portrayal of Apple marks a significant departure from her previous roles, showcasing her versatility as an actress. This film not only allows her to explore new dimensions of her craft but also positions her within a genre that has captivated audiences. The premiere at SXSW serves as a testament to her evolving repertoire since Riverdale wrapped in 2023.
The premiere event was attended by a host of notable figures, including Gabrielle Union and Diablo Cody, further elevating the film’s profile. The presence of such esteemed guests underscores the film’s potential impact within the industry and its appeal to a broad audience.
As the evening concluded, the buzz surrounding Forbidden Fruits left many eager for its theatrical release. Lili Reinhart’s journey in this film signifies not only her growth as an actress but also the importance of storytelling that resonates with diverse audiences. With the film’s unique premise and Reinhart’s compelling performance, it promises to be a memorable addition to the horror comedy genre.
