Lights Out (2016 film)

Lights Out is a 2016 American supernatural horror film directed by David F. Sandberg in his feature directorial debut and written by Eric Heisserer. It is based on Sandberg’s 2013 short film of the same name and stars Teresa Palmer, Gabriel Bateman, Alexander DiPersia, Billy Burke, and Maria Bello. The narrative follows a woman who must protect her younger half-brother from a malevolent spirit that manifests only in darkness and is connected to their family’s past. Lotta Losten, who starred in the original short, appears in a supporting role.

The film was produced by Lawrence Grey, Eric Heisserer, and James Wan, and principal photography took place in Los Angeles from June to August 2015. Lights Out had its world premiere at the LA Film Festival on June 8, 2016, and was released theatrically in the United States and Canada by Warner Bros. Pictures on July 22, 2016.

Produced on a budget of $4.9 million, the film was a major box office success, grossing $148 million worldwide. It received generally positive reviews from critics, with praise directed at Sandberg’s direction, the screenplay, performances, cinematography, and musical score. A sequel is currently in development.