Saccharine 2026

Overview

Saccharine is a 2026 Australian supernatural horror film written and directed by Natalie Erika James. The film stars Midori Francis, Danielle Macdonald, Madeleine Madden, and Robert Taylor. It follows Hana, a lovelorn medical student who becomes involved in an obscure weight-loss trend that involves consuming human ashes. After participating in this practice, Hana begins to experience haunting visions and supernatural disturbances. The film explores themes of guilt, grief, and bodily autonomy through its horror narrative. Saccharine premiered in 2026 and was noted for its ambitious approach to blending psychological and supernatural horror elements. The title refers to the saccharine substance central to the weight-loss fad within the story, rather than the artificial sweetener of the same name. The film received attention for its unique premise and atmospheric direction, though some critics noted that its thematic focus suffered from an overabundance of ideas. It features a predominantly Australian cast and crew, continuing director James’s exploration of trauma and the human body in horror cinema.