Indie Filmmakers Revolutionize Distribution: “IT NEEDS EYES” Launches Nationwide Theatrical Tour

Bypassing traditional streaming deals, Zack Ogle and Aaron Pagniano bring their chilling horror/thriller directly to theaters

A Bold Move Against the Streaming Status Quo

Writer/directors Zack Ogle and Aaron Pagniano are rejecting the conventional low-budget film path of quick streaming releases. Instead, they’re partnering with distributor Insurgence to launch a grassroots theatrical tour for their independent horror/thriller IT NEEDS EYES.

Tired of major distributors claiming theatrical runs aren’t profitable for indie projects, the duo is taking control—hitting the road to bring the film straight to audiences across the country. The tour kicks off in Columbus, Ohio, and continues along the East Coast, with plans for many more cities to be announced.

“When a band plays a music festival, they get paid to be there. Filmmakers have to pay to play at festivals and they don’t get a dime of ticket sales. Then after festivals, the predominant offer now for low budget films is that you give a distributor your movie for free and they fart it out onto whatever streamer will take it with no advertising. So, inspired by recent success stories like Hundreds of Beavers, Two Sleepy People, and Childish Things, we wanted to “go on tour” ourselves and bring this movie directly to audiences where we can dictate our own schedule and marketing plan. We love going to the theater and seeing independent movies and we’re willing to bet that other people do too!”

— Aaron Pagniano

Adding to the excitement, Pagniano, Ogle, or cast members will attend every screening for engaging Q&As, special performances, and after-parties—creating a true event experience for horror fans.

A Revolution in the Making

“If we want to build the next generation of filmmakers, we should create a healthy environment where new voices have the opportunity to show their abilities. The film industry needs a revolution, so we built one.”

— Niccolo Messina, head of Insurgence

Synopsis: A Screen-Haunting Nightmare

IT NEEDS EYES follows Rowan, a teenager who sinks into increasingly bizarre—and often violent—online content until she discovers a missing woman known only as “Fish Tooth.” Convinced the woman is calling out through the screen for help, Rowan is drawn into a spiraling, screen-haunting mystery where her digital obsession puts her in real-world danger.

Confirmed Tour Dates (More Coming Soon!)

• Columbus, Ohio – May 9 at Studio 35 (tickets available soon)
• Winston-Salem, North Carolina – March 21 (venue and tickets TBA)
• Cranford, New Jersey – May 7 (TICKETS)
• Doylestown, Pennsylvania – May 15 (TICKETS)
• Somerville, Massachusetts – May 26 (TICKETS)

Stay updated on additional dates, venues, and ticket info via the filmmakers’ social media and official website (links in signature).

This DIY approach highlights a growing movement among indie creators to reclaim distribution power and connect directly with theater-loving audiences. Don’t miss your chance to experience IT NEEDS EYES on the big screen—where the horror truly comes alive.