Bryan Fuller wanted to create a movie like the ones he loved as a kid. He aimed for a blend of fun and fright, similar to Gremlins or Ghostbusters. His new film, Dust Bunny, follows a young girl named Aurora who hires a hitman to tackle the monster lurking under her bed. While it has humor and playful action, it also took an unexpected turn.
“I set out to make a family movie,” Fuller shared with The Verge, “but we ended up with an R rating.” Despite this, he hopes both kids and adults can enjoy it together.
Originally, Dust Bunny was an episode for Amazing Stories, a revival of Spielberg’s anthology series. However, it was cut, and Fuller saw this self-contained story as his chance to transition from TV to film. “It was clear what to do with it,” he noted.
Fuller also pulled from his own childhood experiences. The story echoes his past, where monsters felt very real, far beyond the supernatural. Growing up with a challenging home life shaped his narrative choices, influencing Aurora’s resilience and coping strategies.
The film’s R rating mainly comes from its violence, which Fuller considers “cartoon violence.” While not overly graphic, it includes shoot-outs and a particularly unsettling scene, an aspect that deviates from traditional family films.
Casting was also crucial. Fuller, who previously worked with Mads Mikkelsen on Hannibal, brought him on as the hitman, describing him as a “muse.” They opted for newcomer Sophie Sloan as Aurora. Her energy contrasts beautifully with Mikkelsen’s serious demeanor, creating a dynamic unique to their relationship.
The creature’s design was pivotal. Artist Jon Wayshak crafted a fluffy monster that is both cute and frightening. Fuller wanted it to capture the essence of a child’s imagination, keeping viewers guessing whether the monster is real or just in Aurora’s mind.
Dust Bunny aims to recapture the blend of horror and levity from 80s films. Fuller sees Gremlins as inspiration for this, emphasizing accessible yet thrilling content.
Despite its R rating, Fuller hopes the film reaches its intended young audience—though that depends on parents’ discretion. The film will be in theaters on December 12th, 2025.
Recent films with a similar mix of humor and horror have sparked discussions online. For example, The Suicide Squad (2021) and Zombieland (2009) found success blending genres, appealing to both younger audiences and adults.
In a quick recap: Fuller’s journey to Dust Bunny embodies the courage to face one’s fears, making it relatable for all ages—whether it’s facing childhood monsters or the challenges of growing up.
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