## “Wait for It”: A New Short Film Expands the Leslie Vernon Universe
Fans of the 2006 meta-slasher *Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon* have long awaited further installments in this unique horror franchise. While a full-fledged sequel, *Before the Mask: The Return of Leslie Vernon*, remains in development, a new short film, *Wait for It*, offers a satisfying glimpse into this darkly comedic world. Written and directed by David J. Stieve (co-writer of *Behind the Mask*), this 13-minute short is now available for rent on the Gathr streaming service.
*Wait for It* offers a “loving deconstruction of the slasher genre,” as Stieve describes it, focusing on Darcy, a survivor grappling with the aftermath of her encounter with a psycho-slasher. The film follows Darcy’s journey home, perpetually on edge and anticipating the inevitable return of her tormentor. The short features Lily Anne Harrison as Darcy, alongside Ashley London and Nathan Baesel (the original Leslie Vernon himself), showcasing a blend of familiar faces and fresh talent. Amy Larsen and Dan Czerwonka produced the film, with Chris Gierowski, Steve Squillante, Richard Stringham, and Russ Troutt serving as executive producers.
Stieve explains that *Wait for It* explores “how a survivor girl copes with the monotony of day-to-day life” after a traumatic event, always anticipating the return of her boogeyman, even if most days pass uneventfully. He adds that the short “throws back to classic horror tropes, with a *Leslie Vernon* style spin on it.” The positive reception to the film, which has already made the festival rounds, has fueled hopes for further expansion within this beloved horror universe. Producer Chris Gierowski confirms this enthusiasm, stating, “We have several ideas of how to spinoff this expansion to make more films in the *Leslie Vernon* universe.”
Given the enduring appeal of *Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon*, *Wait for It* is a welcome addition to the franchise. Its exploration of post-trauma and its clever meta-commentary on slasher tropes promise a thrilling and darkly humorous experience for fans both old and new. For those eager to delve deeper into this unique world, *Wait for It* is available now on Gathr.