Squealer Writers Andy Armstrong And Danielle Burgio Talk The True Story And Those Captivating Characters

The oddball horror film Squealer, currently out in theaters and VOD everywhere, is hard to define. It is the kind of movie that refuses to be boxed in by conventional definitions and tropes. With a cast of quirky characters full of nuance and a horrific real backstory, it is a diamond in disguise. A remote pig farmer preys on the most vulnerable until a social worker takes matters into her own hands. Along the way, a gaggle of eccentric side players grace the screen.

It’s a promising premise. The gruesome nature of the crimes and the potential gore is a horror lover’s dream. The fact that the film is inspired by true events is better still. In an interview with co-writers Andy Armstrong, who also produced and directed, and Danielle Burgio, who also starred, they shared what made them choose this story. What the writing process was like for them and those kooky character choices.

Armstrong first heard of the real story of Willy Pickton, a Canadian serial rapist and killer who fed his victims to his pigs years ago. He was working with a friend on a documentary about the killer. He was interested in reimagining the story because it was “not a vintage horror movie.” Armstrong was drawn to the concept that this gruesome story was “grounded in some ways in a beautiful reality.” He said, “It makes the violence and the gore stand out.” He explained that “the real horror in life often takes place next door.” Squealer really capitalizes on the contrast between the ugliness of the violence and the bright, sunny beauty of the landscape.

Brugio continued that she had heard the story from Armstrong seven years prior, and everything finally lined up for the collaboration. She stressed that Squealer was “inspired by true events” and that “true crime buffs will pick up on nuggets” but that it was inspired by as opposed to a complete factual retelling of the story. Creating a horror film that was still respectful to the victims and their families was important to them both. Highlighting the forgotten nature of many of the victims was a primary focus. Giving voice to those on the fringe of society was a requirement. Burgio said, “It was a story that wrote itself” with “so much juicy material to pull from.”

Armstrong explained that Ronnie Gene Blevins was “their Squealer from day one.” He was “strangely gentle for a mass murderer.” That contrast appealed to them both. On the other side of the equation was Theo Rossi’s drug kingpin, who was so audacious and over the top he stole every scene he was in. That is no small feat, considering he was sharing visuals with squealing pigs and a truly evil killer with a very twisted habit. Armstrong said it was essential to “make him the extreme” but “still something charming about him.” All of the unexpected comedic beats come from his dialogue and performance. His over-the-top performance, coupled with Blevin’s subtle approach to his killer, is the best thing about the film. It elevates a simple “true story” horror film to a character study in strangeness.

Danielle said, “They wanted a very colorful cast of characters.” She explained that authenticity was essential for them in the storytelling process. The world is full of color and complexity, and Armstrong and Burgio brought both to Squealer. It was essential for them to show how each was “strange and very eccentric”. Squealer and the drug dealer’s relationship is a perfect foil for the horrendous nature of the crimes and the dogged determination of Burgio’s social worker, who feels compelled to help the victims regardless of her own safety.

The pair both spoke highly of their writing partnership, and Burgio said she was “thrilled to be mentored by him[Armstrong]. She said, “We found a really nice groove.” Armstrong “doesn’t know how anyone writes on their own” and stated that they were “kindred spirits.” For her part, Burgio said there were “plenty of challenges, but it was a really beautiful process.” When asked what was next, they both insisted they had several projects ready to pitch as soon as the strike was over. Their next project is more action-based but not in the expected sense. If these two bring the same menagerie of interesting characters to the screen, combined with Armstrong’s eye for landscape and set pieces, it will be a success.

Squealer is in theaters and on VOD everywhere. It is for fans of unexpected chargers and settings and true crime horror.