‘The Ugly Stepsister’ Digital Release Date

IFC Films is set to release their provocative body horror film The Ugly Stepsister on digital platforms next month, arriving on PVOD services on May 9th, 2025. The film has been shocking audiences since its theatrical debut on April 18th, 2025, and will soon be available to experience at home.

The Ugly Stepsister offers a twisted take on the classic Cinderella story, following Elvira (Lea Myren) as she battles against her gorgeous stepsister in a realm where beauty reigns supreme. Set in a fairy-tale kingdom where physical perfection is a brutal, cutthroat business, Elvira resorts to extreme measures to captivate Prince Julian (Isac Calmroth), undergoing grotesque surgical procedures and painful transformations in her quest for social acceptance.

This directorial debut from Emilie Blichfeldt, who also wrote the screenplay, has been described as a subversive reimagining that recalls the visceral atmosphere of films like "Perfume: The Story of a Murderer." The film stars Lea Myren as Elvira, Ane Dahl Torp as her ruthless stepmother Rebekka, Thea Sofie Loch Næss, and Flo Fagerli as Alma, Elvira's younger stepsister who provides a grounded perspective amid the film's chaotic transformations.

Critics have praised the film's bold vision and commentary on beauty standards, with Marcel Zyskind's cinematography capturing the surreal, almost carnivalesque staging of the transformation sequences. The Norwegian production has earned a solid 7.3/10 on IMDb and a Metascore of 74, with reviewers noting its effective blend of body horror, psychological horror, satire, and dark comedy elements.

The digital release will be available on major platforms including Amazon Video and iTunes, with the film expected to stream exclusively on Shudder at a later date. Viewers should be warned that the film contains disturbing imagery that reportedly caused someone to vomit during a festival screening.

We've added the release date to our streaming calendar

Please note: While we strive for accuracy, release dates and availability may vary by region and platform.