There’s nothing scarier than being a woman. That’s the truth behind the murder-loop premise of Shudder’s latest horror installation, Lucky, written by and starring Brea Grant. A self-help book author needs to help herself when a violent and disturbing intruder repeatedly breaks into her home and tries to kill her. The themes in this film are so loud and clear — especially for women — and that’s all because of Grant, who developed the project after a personal incident happened to her not too long ago.

"I had gone through some personal events, so writing this film was a form of catharsis for me," Grant said during our 10-minute phone conversation.

"It was really weighing on me. I knew I wanted to tackle violence against women, women not being listened to, and just the danger of being a woman living in America, so this film was birthed from that. Every woman I know has a story of being followed or violated in some way." 

Grant also stars in the project as May, one-half of a seemingly happy married couple until her husband abandons her after the first attack in their home, which he knows is happening but does nothing to ease her fear of it happening. Another poignant tick on the board of what it’s like to be a woman in the 21st century. We all know it’s happening, but nothing is being done about it. 

At first, Grant was hesitant to star in the project.

"I didn’t plan on acting but when Natasha [Kermani] came on board she was the one that suggested I do it. She told me she couldn’t imagine anyone else embodying the character of May and it worked out. It was a way for me to continue with the catharsis and the project because usually, as a writer we don’t get to see where the project goes." 

Grant and Kermani made sure to apply the feminist themes on the screen below the line and behind the camera as well. 

"We had mostly female department heads and our director is a woman. I have zero complaints on how it panned out. There were some long days on set with it being a small film and all, but overall it was a great atmosphere. Even the actor playing 'The Man' in the film was lovely." 

When asked about that shocking yet satisfying ending (no spoilers here), Grant explained it was actually a scene prior to the last frames of the film that informed her how to finish May’s storyline.

"As a writer, you’re trying to find that thing. That thing that’s missing from the movie and I found mine. I realized the location for the climax of the film is such a huge location for women and a huge revolution for May." 

To round out our interview, I asked Grant what advice she would give her younger writer self.

"Just keep writing," she said.

"I know it’s such cliché advice, but it’s true. I would also say don’t send your first draft. I get so excited to share my work, but don’t do that." 

Lucky will be available on VOD, Digital HD, and DVD on August 3.