Day Of The Cicada Premieres to A-List Horror Crowd and Standing Ovations

David W. Bailey’s latest venture into B-Horror cinema, Day Of The Cicada, delivered a pulse-pounding experience at its invitation-only premiere, where industry elites and cast members witnessed a film that repeatedly drove them to audible reactions.

At its core is the story of Jacob (portrayed by Bailey), whose protestations of innocence have echoed through prison walls for 34 years. Convicted of murdering his parents, he’s maintained not only his innocence but also an extraordinary claim – that the true killers were mysterious insects appearing on a seventeen-year cycle. Now, as another emergence approaches, Jacob orchestrates his escape, pursued relentlessly by Emily, a rookie investigator on his case. Her pursuit leads to a chilling revelation: the cicadas Jacob feared are horrifyingly real, and they’ve returned.

Bailey, who crafted the film as writer, director, and editor while starring in the lead role, is joined by horror cinema royalty Eileen Dietz, famed for her unforgettable work in The Exorcist. The ensemble features noteworthy performances from Lords of Acid’s DieTrich Thrall, seasoned actors Ron Russell and Mike Ferguson, alongside Kelly Lynn Reiter, who commands attention as Emily Thornton, the determined law enforcement psychiatrist probing the decades-old mystery of Jacob’s parents’ deaths.

The premiere attracted an array of entertainment luminaries, including respected filmmaker Joseph Kelly, supermodel Tyler Sebago, industry powerhouse Jimmy Star, multi-platinum producer Zachary Jaydon, filmmaker Cash Cassidy, Smile star Kevin Keppe and Survivor star, Daniel Rengering. The event also drew numerous media representatives and streaming platform executives looking to secure distribution rights.

Thunderous applause punctuated the screening, culminating in a standing ovation. Sebago encapsulated the evening’s energy, saying, “It was crazy, campy, and fun,” before adding, “I could definitely see this film developing a cult-following. All the elements are there for that. It was really well done. I’d see it again.”

Photo Credits: Rebel Yell Photography