Eli Roth Released Horror Film Ice Cream Man
The slasher film moves to digital streaming platforms following a 10-day theatrical run in the United States.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Horror
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Director Eli Roth has brought his unrated horror film Ice Cream Man to digital streaming platforms. The move follows a brief 10-day theatrical release for the project, which stars Ari Millen as a local ice cream vendor.
Why it matters
Roth established his own production company, The Horror Section, specifically to bypass studio interference and Motion Picture Association content cuts. This independent distribution model allows the filmmaker to release the movie in its unrated form directly to home viewers.
The film earned $6 million at the worldwide box office against a $5.5 million production budget. It currently holds a 25% critic score and a 46% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.
The players
Eli Roth
He is an American filmmaker and actor known for his work in the horror genre and his founding of the production company The Horror Section.
Ari Millen
He is the lead actor who portrays the ice cream vendor in this production.
The Horror Section
This is a production company formed by Eli Roth to facilitate independent distribution of unrated films.
Iconic Events Releasing
This organization served as the distributor for the film during its domestic theatrical run.
The details
Distributed by Iconic Events Releasing, the film originally opened in 1,671 domestic theaters. Digital purchase is available for $19.99, while 48-hour digital rentals are projected to cost $14.99.
Timeline
Eli Roth wrote the film's script in 2003.
Roth suffered a career setback with Borderlands in 2024.
Ice Cream Man opened in domestic theaters on August 7, 2026.
The film debuted on digital streaming platforms on September 22, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
This release follows the precedent of the unrated theatrical distribution model designed to circumvent traditional industry censorship standards. The strategy signals a broader move among niche filmmakers to bypass studio oversight in favor of direct-to-consumer digital platforms.
The film is now accessible for digital purchase at $19.99, providing an alternative to the limited theatrical window. Viewers can also anticipate a 48-hour rental option priced at $14.99.
The takeaway
This release underscores the growing viability of independent production labels that operate outside of standard studio structures. Fans of the genre may find that unrated cuts offer a distinct experience compared to traditional wide-release horror films.
Further reading
For more on the latest trends in scary movies, visit the Horror section.
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