The upcoming feature The Grim Rapper offers a gritty, urban twist on the supernatural vigilante archetype, trading the gothic rock aesthetic for a narrative centered on the hip-hop world. Produced by Charles Band and helmed by first-time director Hugo Velazco, the film presents a high-concept story of life after death on an independent budget.

The plot follows D.A. Mann, played by Lamarr Mattison, a rap superstar whose life was stolen just as he reached the top of the industry. Three decades after his assassination, he re-emerges in the physical world thanks to a pact with a blood-hungry Aztec entity. His resurrection is fueled by a dual purpose: to exact violent justice on those who crossed him and to seek out his long-lost partner for one last encounter.

The tension peaks when a cold-blooded industry veteran, Hathorne Slim, tries to profit from the tragedy by marketing the artist’s archival music. This act of exploitation provokes a lethal, paranormal backlash from the undead musician, who begins a systematic hunt for the executive and his inner circle.

The production boasts a decent lineup including Ernie C. of the Heavy Metal band Body Count and Vincent M. Ward, known for his role in The Walking Dead. The cast is rounded out by Akin Coley, Osmara Rojas, Akeem Mair, Tarik Lawrence, Gigi Cambra, Chuey Martinez, Kemo the Blaxican, and Anthony J Cruz.