Jeremiah Kipp, a filmmaker recognized for his contributions to underground horror cinema, has passed away. His partner, Lindsay Katt, confirmed the news, which was also acknowledged by The Long Island International Film Expo. Kipp had recently completed his largest film project, an adaptation of the popular indie horror game, The Mortuary Assistant.
The Film Expo remembered Kipp as "a gentle soul who was always generous with advice and sharing his knowledge of cinema," adding that he "leaves behind many friends and an important legacy."
The film adaptation of The Mortuary Assistant, based on the 2022 video game, centers on Rebecca, portrayed by Willa Holland, who takes on a new job at a morgue hoping for a fresh start. Her seemingly routine shifts take a dark turn when she begins experiencing strange visions, which her employer, Raymond (Paul Sparks), explains is due to a demonic spirit attached to one of the cadavers. Rebecca must then perform specific rituals to expel the entity.
Dread Presents, the studio behind the film, stated, "Jeremiah brought his singular voice and passion to Dread through SLAPFACE and THE MORTUARY ASSISTANT." The studio extended condolences to Kipp's family, friends, and collaborators.
Kipp was a notable figure in the New York horror community, described by peers as someone who fostered talent with his time, passion, and expertise. Before The Mortuary Assistant, his filmography included a variety of independent horror projects, ranging from short films to the Shudder release Slapface in 2021. According to Deadline, Kipp had recently finished production on Faceless, a new horror feature inspired by Cambodian folklore.
The Mortuary Assistant was a significant release for publisher DreadXP, known for their Dread X collections. The game blended horror elements with simulator gameplay, marking a notable expansion for the company into more ambitious cross-media projects. DreadXP is also involved in other adaptations, including a planned film based on Amanda the Adventurer with Blumhouse and YouTuber MatPat.