ROME — 'Watchful Eyes', the independent horror feature directed by Italian filmmaker Gianluca Lasaracina and distributed worldwide by Buffalo 8, will be available on demand on Amazon starting July 17, 2026.
Blending psychological horror and visual experimentation, 'Watchful Eyes' explores isolation, perception and the terror of unseen presences through a minimal, oppressive cinematic language. The film is Lasaracina’s feature debut and the first production from Rome-based independent label Lightless Productions.
Produced independently through a micro-budget approach and partly supported through Kickstarter, 'Watchful Eyes' embraces a radical, immersive visual style inspired by contemporary elevated horror while keeping a strong European identity. The film has been officially recognized as “film d’essai” by the Italian Ministry of Culture and has already attracted attention from the independent horror scene for its atmospheric construction and experimental structure.
The film stars Lorenzo Gioielli. Worldwide distribution is handled by Buffalo 8.
“'Watchful Eyes' was born from the idea that fear can exist even in silence,” says director Gianluca Lasaracina. “I wanted to create a psychological experience in which the viewer constantly questions what is real and what is only perceived. The film lives on tension, absence and visual obsession.”
The release follows recent recognition on the genre circuit, including a Vespertilio Awards 2026 shortlist nod for Best Visual Effects and further mentions across the international independent scene.
