Finn Wolfhard’s horror directorial debut

Finn Wolfhard already has his project after “Stranger Things”: directing.

The “Stranger Things” breakout star is making his directorial debut with the ’80s-inspired horror-comedy “Hell of a Summer,” which he co-wrote with co-director Billy Bryk. The duo also appear in the film, which is helmed by “Nickel Boys” and “Gladiator II” actor Fred Hechinger.

The official synopsis reads: “‘Hell of a Summer’ centers on 24-year-old camp counselor Jason Hochberg (Hechinger), who arrives at Camp Pineway and believes his biggest problem is that he feels out of touch with his teenage colleagues. What he doesn’t know is that a masked killer is lurking in the campsites, brutally picking off counselors one by one.”

D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai, Abby Quinn, Pardis Saremi, Rosebud Baker and Adam Pally also star. Hechinger, Wolfhard and Bryk all produce the feature along with Jason Bateman, Michael Costigan and Jay Van Hoy. The film completed post-production in 2023 before landing at Neon for distribution.

Wolfhard previously told Weekly entertainment that at the age of 20 he was met with skepticism from financiers about his ability to direct a feature.

“That’s what everybody said when we were trying to get money for this movie,” Wolfhard said. “They’re like, ‘You’re a little young to be directing a movie.’ I’m like, ‘Yep.'”

He added: “Oh my God, they gave money to two kids to make a crazy (film).’ Not to downplay it, I’m incredibly proud of it, but we want to let the film speak for itself. I don’t think age defines filmmaking in any way. I think everyone has stories that tell, and if you have the chance to do it, do it.”

Wolfhard will also reprise his role in the fifth and final season of “Stranger Things,” which debuts later this year. “Stranger Things” first aired in July 2016, with the show spanning four years in the town of Hawkins. The final season includes special screenings, in-person experiences, new limited-edition merchandise and more to mark the end of the viral show.

“Hell of a Summer” premieres April 18 in theaters from Neon. See the trailer below.