Sam Claflin’s New Horror Film ‘Bagman’ Brings Terrifying Urban Legend to Life

Lionsgate has unveiled the official trailer for ‘Bagman’, a chilling horror film set to hit theatres this fall. Directed by Colm McCarthy, known for Outcast and ‘The Girl with All the Gifts’, the film centres around a terrifying urban legend. 

The plot follows Patrick McKee, portrayed by Sam Claflin, who must confront a nightmarish creature from his past that threatens his family. The trailer opens with a woman narrating the legend of the Bagman, a sinister figure used by parents to frighten children into good behaviour. This myth claims that Bagman targets not only misbehaving but also kind-hearted children.

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As the trailer progresses, viewers see Patrick McKee haunted by disturbing childhood memories of the Bagman. Having relocated his family back to his hometown, Patrick fears the creature might return, especially now that he has a son of his own. The trailer teases numerous jump scares and shows the Bagman menacingly grabbing children.

The official synopsis for ‘Bagman’ reads: “In the dark horror film Bagman, a family is ensnared in a nightmare as they are pursued by a malevolent, mythical being. For centuries, the Bagman has been a frightening figure in folklore, snatching innocent children and stuffing them into his vile, rotting bag—never to be seen again.” 

The film also features Antonia Thomas (known from The Good Doctor and Love Sick) as Patrick’s wife Karina, and Caréll Vincent Rhoden as their son Jake. The cast includes William Hope, Steven Cree, and Frankie Corio. Produced by Marty Bowen, John Fischer, Wyck Godfrey, and Isaac Klausner, ‘Bagman’ is Lionsgate’s latest horror offering, joining recent releases like ‘Imaginary and The Strangers: Chapter 1’.

Director Colm McCarthy shared his thoughts with Collider, stating, “Reading John Hume’s script, I was immediately captivated by the folk horror elements, especially the crisis of fatherhood that Pat faces. The raw horror of knowing your child is in danger but being powerless to protect them is every parent’s worst nightmare.”

-Sushmita Sarkar