The upcoming horror-comedy Bad Karaoke is set to make its world premiere at Tubi FrightFest on August 30, 2026, bringing a blood-soaked twist to an activity that’s already terrifying for some. Directed by Chris Lightbody and Robert J. Steinmiller Jr., the independent feature will screen at London’s ODEON Luxe West End as part of the festival’s Discovery program.
Marking the feature directorial debut for Lightbody and Steinmiller Jr., Bad Karaoke stars Lexi Underwood (Little Fires Everywhere), Case Walker (The Other Two), Kat Cunning (Trinkets), and Jenna Karan.
The film follows wedding band keyboardist Emily, who uncovers an old karaoke machine tucked away in the back of a dive bar. What begins as a night of singing and camaraderie quickly descends into chaos when the seemingly ordinary machine reveals a deadly appetite. As performances determine who lives and who dies, the group scrambles to decipher the machine’s twisted rules before the next song becomes their last.
The filmmakers described the inspiration behind the project in a joint statement:
“We were inspired to make this film after years of painful karaoke performances nearly put us in an early grave. We found that many people have had near-death karaoke experiences and we wanted to play with that idea, as well as say something profound about the state of new music. But instead, we made Bad Karaoke.”
The film will screen on Sunday, August 30, at 8:55 p.m. BST in Discovery Screen 2 at the ODEON Luxe West End.
Attending the world premiere will be co-director/co-writer Chris Lightbody, co-director/producer Robert J. Steinmiller Jr., co-writer/producer Spencer Yaras, and cast members Lexi Underwood, Case Walker, and Jenna Karan. Kat Cunning will be available for virtual interviews.
Running 84 minutes, Bad Karaoke is rated R for bloody violent content, gore, language, drug use, and some sexual content/nudity.
