An Interview with Phil Herman, Creator and Star of Unearthed

by Mike Haberfelner

January 2025

Your new movie Unearthed - in a few words, what's it about?

Unearthed is a gripping anthology that weaves together four haunting tales of suspense, terror and discovery. Each story follows individuals as they unearth hidden, long-lost or carefully guarded secrets—leading to chilling consequences. Masterfully helmed by a team of visionary filmmakers—Marcelo Fabani (Clean House) [Marcelo Fabani interview - click here], Derek Braasch (The Ties That Bind) [Derek Braasch interview - click here], Will Devokees (Look Towards the Sky) and James Panetta (Highway Rivalry)—this anthology plunges into the dark depths of human curiosity and its unforeseen repercussions. Hosted by the enigmatic Christopher Kahler [Christopher Kahler interview - click here] as Doom, Unearthed takes audiences on a thrilling journey beneath the surface to reveal mysteries that were never meant to see the light of day. Prepare for an odyssey of suspense that will leave you questioning what lies just beyond reach. Unearthed: Some secrets are better left buried.

Let's talk about Unearthed's wraparound segment first - what were your sources of inspiration when dreaming up this one?

The wraparound segment for Unearthed was inspired, as is often the case for me, by a nightmare. I envisioned a creepy figure in the woods stumbling upon a mysterious book and reading from it—a simple yet chilling concept. Honestly, it might have been the result of bad chili, but the idea stuck with me. I jotted down some notes the next morning and decided to pursue something supernatural and scary but not overly complicated. I wanted the segment to evoke genuine chills while capturing the spirit of a crypt keeper, reminiscent of the classic horror comics of the 1950s and the vibe of Creepshow. Christopher Kahler plays the creepy figure, Doom, and truly breathes life into the character. With his colorful rewrites and creative input, Chris added depth and personality to Doom, transforming him into a captivating, memorable presence. His performance and passion for the role elevated the segment, making it even more haunting and engaging.

What can you tell us about the wraparound segment's director Christopher Kahler, and what was your collaboration like?

Christopher Kahler is an exceptional talent who consistently goes above and beyond. As a true perfectionist, he worked tirelessly to achieve the exact look and feel he envisioned for the wraparound segment, bringing an incredible attention to detail that elevated the story to a whole new level. While his dedication delayed the project slightly, the results were more than worth it, showcasing his remarkable craftsmanship. Our collaboration was truly inspiring. Chris not only directed the segment but also brought the character Doom to life with his portrayal, breathing personality into the role through colorful rewrites and creative contributions. His enthusiasm for the material was infectious, and he connected so deeply with the character that he’s already developing a prequel to explore Doom’s backstory, slated for next year. I’m honored to have worked with someone who brought such brilliance and energy to Unearthed. Chris’s contributions were pivotal in creating a haunting, memorable segment, and I’m excited to see where he takes Doom’s story next.

Do talk about Unearthed's casts, and as creator/writer/producer, how much of a say did you have or demand in regards to casting?

The casting process for Unearthed was a collaborative effort that combined the unique visions of the writer/directors—Marcelo Fabani, Nina Trader, Derek Braasch, and James Panetta—with my input as creator, writer, and producer. While I focused on the wraparound segment, each director took the lead in selecting talent for their chapters, ensuring the cast matched their storytelling styles and gave each segment its own identity. The result is a dynamic and diverse ensemble of seasoned veterans and emerging talents. The cast, including Tina Krause [Tina Krause interview - click here], Will Devokees, Kristina Santiago, Samantha Hupp, Joe DeBartolo, Ralph Rey, Michael E. Pringle, Heather Harlow, Joe Debartolo, Lillian Lamour, Kirk Larson, James Arnold, Penelope Bogado, Dave Cook, Mike Doyle, Jim Ewald, Nina Trader, Claudio Martin Alvarez, Brandon Farmer, Paul Nada, Marcelo Fabani, Derek Braasch, Diego Osorio, Debbie D [Debbie D interview - click here], Phil Herman and Michael Holub, brings exceptional performances that anchor the narrative and set the tone for the anthology. Actors like Krause and Debbie D bring decades of experience and passion, while fresh faces like Will Devokees add vibrant energy, creating a perfect balance that elevates the film. This careful approach to casting was inspiring, and I’m thrilled with how the team came together to bring Unearthed to life, blending expertise, passion and an unwavering commitment to the project.

A few words about the shoot as such, and the on-set atmosphere?

The shoot for Unearthed was nothing short of fantastic. The atmosphere on set felt like being with family—supportive, collaborative, and filled with excitement. Every year, working on an anthology has become a cherished tradition, and this time was no different. My core team—Derek Braasch, Marcelo Fabani, James Panetta, and Will Devokees—brought their usual passion and creativity, pushing boundaries with fresh ideas and innovative filmmaking. Their dedication not only made the process enjoyable but also ensured that every segment of Unearthed was crafted with care and originality. It’s always a great experience working with such talented and driven individuals.

So what can you tell us about the other segments, their creative teams, and what made them great for your anthology?

Each segment of Unearthed was brought to life by a unique creative team, and what made them all perfect for the anthology was their ability to blend horror with innovative storytelling, giving each segment its own identity while contributing to the overall theme. Will Devokees, Marcelo Fabani, Nina Trader, Derek Braasch, and James Panetta each directed a segment, bringing their distinct vision and expertise. Will’s segment, for example, showcased his knack for building suspense and tension, while Marcelo’s direction brought psychological horror that left viewers questioning what’s real. Nina, Derek and James each added their own flavors of suspense and terror, whether it was supernatural elements, gritty storytelling or eerie atmosphere, ensuring there was something for every horror fan. What made each creative team stand out was their passion for the genre and their commitment to delivering something unique. Whether it was crafting a shocking twist or capturing an unsettling tone, every director contributed to making Unearthed a standout anthology. The talent and diversity within these segments allowed the film to explore different facets of horror, making it a truly dynamic viewing experience.

You've co-written Unearthed's last segment Highway Rivalry with segment director James Panetta - so what were your sources of inspiration for that one, and what was the writing process like?

The writing process was collaborative from the start. James and I bounced ideas off each other, playing with different ways to heighten the tension while keeping the story grounded in a reality that felt relatable. We drew upon classic road thriller tropes—isolated locations, escalating confrontations, and the constant pressure of being at the mercy of others—while blending in our unique twist that brings the horror to the forefront. We both wanted to create something with relentless energy and suspense, something that kept the audience on the edge of their seat as the rivalry spirals out of control. The writing process felt organic, as we constantly built upon each other’s ideas and honed in on the emotions that drive both the characters and the tension between them. In the end, James injected something truly special and memorable into the way the segment concludes—an unexpected twist that left a lasting impression on audiences and was particularly praised by critics. It added a layer of depth and impact to the story, making Highway Rivalry a standout segment in the anthology. Working alongside James made it all the more enjoyable, as his vision and direction brought the script to life in the best way possible.

You also play one of the leads in Highway Rivalry - so what can you tell us about your character, what did you draw upon to bring him to life, and have you written him with yourself in mind from the get-go?

James Panetta played a huge role in bringing this character to life. As the director of Highway Rivalry, James’s vision and direction were key in shaping the mysterious, unsettling nature of my character. While I worked to embody the role, it was James who guided me in finding the perfect balance between charm and menace. His ability to craft an atmosphere of tension and ambiguity was essential in making the character both captivating and disturbing. James made sure that every aspect of the character’s performance felt authentic, and he pushed me to explore the darker, more complex layers of the role. His direction allowed me to tap into the nuances of the character, giving him the right amount of mystery and danger without revealing too much too soon. He understood the importance of keeping the audience guessing about whether my character was truly a serial killer or just a seemingly ordinary man caught up in an extraordinary situation. In short, while I brought my own take to the role, it was James Panetta’s direction that truly brought the character to life we gave him the depth and intrigue needed to make Highway Rivalry such a compelling and unpredictable segment.

Do talk about the rest of Highway Rivalry's cast, and why exactly these people?

The cast of Highway Rivalry was carefully chosen to bring out the complexity of the story and its characters. Each actor brought something unique to the table, adding depth to the narrative and really elevating the tension. 

Mike E. Pringle, who plays the cop in pursuit of the serial killer, was a perfect fit for the role. He has a strong presence and the kind of intensity needed to portray a lawman who’s driven to get justice but may not fully understand the darker forces at play. Mike’s performance anchored the story, providing a solid foundation as the chase grows more bizarre and unpredictable.

Jim Ewald, who plays alongside Mike in the cop role, was a fantastic addition. His chemistry with Mike added a layer of camaraderie and tension, making their partnership feel real and dynamic as they work together to unravel the mystery. 

Myself, portraying the serial killer, brought a chilling intensity to the role. My portrayal was captivating, and my ability to walk the fine line between calm and terrifying made the character unforgettable. My dedication to the role really brought the menace of his character to life in a way that kept the audience on edge. 

Debbie D, playing the mysterious passenger, was crucial in keeping the suspense alive. She’s enigmatic, and her interactions with my character add a layer of tension and unpredictability. Debbie’s performance was perfect for the role, creating an aura of mystery that leaves you wondering about her true intentions. 

Ralph Rey, who plays the doomed husband, is another standout in the cast. His portrayal brought emotional depth and a sense of vulnerability to the story. He added a touch of tragedy to the narrative, making his character’s fate even more impactful.

Finally, we have Tina Krause and Ally Batot a special guest star role. Tina’s presence was a real treat for the audience. She has a long history in indie films, and her talent and experience brought something extra to the scene. Her role added a twist, making things even more bizarre and captivating as the plot unfolds. 

Ultimately, the cast was a perfect blend of seasoned veterans and rising stars, each bringing their own flavor to the story. James Panetta did a fantastic job of assembling a group of actors who not only fit their roles but also elevated the entire experience, ensuring that Highway Rivalry stands out in the anthology.

What can you tell us about your collaboration with your director James Panetta during the shoot?

Working with James Panetta on Highway Rivalry was an incredible experience. From the moment we started, it was clear that James had a very strong vision for the project. His approach to direction was both collaborative and insightful, which made the entire process smooth and enjoyable. We worked closely together to shape my character, making sure that he was not just a serial killer but someone with layers of complexity. James really took the time to understand the nuances of the character and encouraged me to explore the darker, more ambiguous sides of the role. His attention to detail and his ability to create an atmosphere of tension and suspense were invaluable. He also knew when to push me further to make sure the performance was as intense as it needed to be. Throughout the shoot, James made sure the whole cast was on the same page and kept the energy up, which was key in a story like this, where the stakes are constantly rising. His leadership on set was outstanding, and his ability to adapt to the evolving nature of the shoot really stood out. By the time we wrapped, I felt we had created something special, and it was all thanks to James’ clear direction and his understanding of what made the story truly engaging. Working with him was a fantastic experience, and I’m proud of what we accomplished together.

Again, do talk about the shoot as such, and the on-set atmosphere!

The shoot for Highway Rivalry was a fantastic experience. The atmosphere on set was incredibly collaborative, with everyone involved bringing their A-game to make the film as impactful as possible. From the very beginning, it was clear that James Panetta set the tone for a creative, yet relaxed environment, which allowed the cast and crew to give their best performances. James has a way of making everyone feel comfortable and part of the process. It’s rare to find that perfect balance between professionalism and fun on set, but James managed to achieve it, which made it an enjoyable atmosphere throughout. The cast bonded quickly, and we all supported one another, especially when it came to navigating the tension and unpredictability of the script. Despite the intensity of the subject matter, there was a sense of camaraderie that really made the experience memorable. We had a great time between takes, swapping stories and keeping the energy up. The creative team, including the actors and crew, truly became like family during this shoot. What made it special was that everyone had a clear understanding of the story and the importance of the atmosphere James was creating. We were all on the same page in terms of tone, making sure the suspense and the twists landed perfectly. The collaborative spirit of the shoot really paid off, and it was one of those rare projects where everyone worked together seamlessly to bring something amazing to life. It’s a testament to the fantastic leadership and direction from James.

The $64-question, where can Unearthed be seen?

The movie will be streaming later this year in selected services. Will also be available on DVD, BluRay and VHS later this month. 

Anything you can tell us about audience and critical reception of Unearthed?

So far the critics love it and it’s our best received movie to date.

Any future projects you'd like to share?

Feeling lucky? Want to search any of my partnershops yourself for more, better results? (commissions earned) The links below will take you just there!!! Find Phil Herman at the amazons ...   amazon.com   amazon.co.uk   amazon.de Looking for imports? Find Phil Herman here ...   eThaiCD.com Your shop for all things Thai

We’re thrilled to share that we are working on a brand new anthology: The Actor’s Curse: A Tale of Twisted Fate! In this chilling tale, a washed-up actor, abandoned by fans and loved ones, stumbles upon a mysterious journal. Fueled by bitterness, he pens four macabre stories of revenge targeting those he blames for his downfall—director, producer, writer, and makeup artist. To his horror, the gruesome deaths he imagines begin to come true. But as the journal’s dark magic unfolds, he soon realizes that the next victim may very well be himself. The Actor’s Curse is a blood-soaked journey where the line between art and reality shatters, and no one is safe from the horrors that unfold. The creative team is back! We have James Panetta, Marcelo Fabani, Derek Braasch, and Will Devokees bringing their unique touch to this anthology, with Joe DeBartolo stepping up to take the lead this time. I wrote, produced, and will also star in this thrilling project. Stay tuned for more updates on The Actor’s Curse: A Tale of Twisted Fate—you won’t want to miss this one! Check out our IndieGoGo campaign - https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/phil-herman-s-the-actors-curse-a-tale-of-twisted#/

Anything else you're dying to mention and I have merely forgotten to ask?

A story I wrote years ago has now been retitled and is officially called A Soldier’s Descent. The story follows Barney, a former war veteran and prisoner of war for a year, who has chosen to live off the grid in the deep woods to escape a world that abandoned him. Haunted by PTSD and estranged from his family, his only connection to humanity is Daniel, his old friend and lawyer, who visits to offer support. When a group of reckless teens enter the wilderness and accidentally kill Daniel, Barney’s fragile peace is shattered. Consumed by grief and rage, he embarks on a violent quest for revenge, unleashing his fury on those responsible. A Soldier’s Descent is a gripping and harrowing tale of trauma, loss, and the deadly consequences of pushing a broken man too far. The project is being developed by Andrew and Carissa Pierson, with Guthrie Lowe directing. It’s going big, and I’m beyond excited for what’s to come! Stay tuned for more updates on A Soldier’s Descent! You won’t want to miss this one!

Thanks for the interview!

© by Mike Haberfelner

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