Chandler Balli: The Relentless Filmmaker Behind “Death After Dusk”

Chandler Balli, a visionary filmmaker, is no stranger to the grind and passion it takes to create something exceptional. Known for his previous works, Sect (2022), One Left (2021), and his most anticipated release yet, Death After Dusk (2024), Balli’s journey into filmmaking has been defined by self-determination, creativity, and an undying love for storytelling. His journey from making short films as a child to delivering a high-concept western horror film speaks to a career built on grit, artistic passion, and a relentless drive to bring his visions to life.

Since his early years, Chandler Balli has known his purpose. “I always knew I wanted to be a writer, director, and actor,” he shares.

As a child, Balli’s playground was iMovie, a place where he could experiment and begin his career in filmmaking.

By the age of 19, he moved to Atlanta, the burgeoning hub for independent filmmakers, and began the arduous journey of self-funding his projects. “I learned early on that no one is going to make this happen except for myself,” he says. This mindset, a cornerstone of his career, has propelled him to where he is today—on the cusp of releasing his biggest film to date, Death After Dusk.

The Early Grind: From One Left to Sect

In 2021, Balli took a bold step, writing, directing, and starring in his debut film One Left, an apocalyptic thriller crafted on a budget of $0. The film resonated at small film festivals, earning several awards and setting the stage for the career he had always envisioned. “Finally getting that awards recognition has been fueling my career ever since,” he recalls.

But life soon took an unexpected turn when Balli underwent heart surgery. “It was scary for a moment,” he admits, though this health scare didn’t extinguish his creative flame. Instead, it became the fuel for his next project.

Drawing from the anxiety and fear surrounding his health, Chandler poured his emotions into Sect, a religious horror film released in 2022. Once again, he wore multiple hats—director, writer, and actor—showcasing his versatility and unwavering commitment to his craft. The film premiered to a packed theater in Atlanta, confirming that Balli’s work resonated with audiences. Like One Left, Sect also found a home on Amazon Prime and Tubi, expanding his reach and audience. With two films under his belt, Balli was just getting started.

Death After Dusk: A Career-Defining Moment

Fast forward to 2024, and Chandler Balli stands on the brink of releasing Death After Dusk, his most ambitious project yet. A unique blend of western and slasher horror, the film takes viewers to the late 19th century, where a town in Texas is terrorized by a ruthless murderer known as the Buck Creek Killer. The film follows a group of nine bounty hunters assembled by the sheriff to hunt down this feared murderer.

“Death After Dusk is the culmination of everything in my life and career so far,” says Balli. Described as a movie that feels like “if Quentin Tarantino directed John Carpenter’s The Thing,” it’s clear that Balli has masterfully blended genres to create something entirely his own. Filming 140 pages in less than two weeks in the vast landscapes of Texas was one of the hardest experiences of his life, but it is this perseverance that makes him a filmmaker to watch.

Premiering in theaters across Atlanta, Tennessee, and Texas, Death After Dusk has already garnered critical acclaim, debuting on Rotten Tomatoes with a perfect 100% score. It’s also swept through film festivals, earning over 40 awards and leaving a significant mark on the indie film circuit. As its October 11th release date on Amazon Prime and Tubi approaches, anticipation builds for what promises to be a genre-defining film.

A Relentless Drive to Tell Stories

handler Balli’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion. Despite the challenges he’s faced—whether they were creative hurdles, health scares, or the practical limitations of indie filmmaking—he’s never let anything derail his commitment to telling stories.

“I want to create stories forever. It has been both a pro and a con in my life, but it’s what makes me happiest,” he says.

This obsession with creating films is more than just a career for Balli—it’s a calling. “It’s what drives me to get out of bed in the morning.

I can’t turn off this obsession with creating films, and I wouldn’t stop even if I could,” he adds. Balli’s relentless drive has not only shaped his path as a filmmaker but has also inspired countless others who are drawn to his work and his story.

The Future Awaits

As Death After Dusk makes its way to audiences around the world, Chandler Balli’s star is undeniably on the rise. His films may be born out of personal experiences and challenges, but they resonate on a universal level, connecting with audiences through their raw emotion, tension, and masterful storytelling.

With each project, Balli pushes the boundaries of independent filmmaking, proving that with determination, talent, and an undying love for the craft, anything is possible.

The release of Death After Dusk marks a career milestone, but for Balli, it’s just the beginning.

“I hope I can continue to tell stories that people connect to,” he says—and if his track record is any indication, the world of film has much to look forward to from Chandler Balli.

Death After Dusk premieres on Amazon Prime and Tubi on October 11th.