Photo courtesy of Adult Swim
Billing itself as “unapologetically absurd, dark, and wildly comedic,” Atlanta-based Adult Swim‘s unconventional original film Yule Log returns with a sequel, Yule Log 2: Branchin’ Out, on December 6. Shot entirely in the city, the production relied on a crew comprised soley of local talent.
The first film’s surprise midnight release in 2022 captivated audiences with its offbeat humor and genre-defying storytelling, earning rave reviews and even Emmy buzz. By fusing holiday romance with science-fiction horror, it introduced unsuspecting viewers to a uniquely twisted world where a seemingly innocuous yule log became a murder-hungry antagonist. Now, fans are eagerly anticipating what’s next for the characters. With director Casper Kelly once again at the helm and Adult Swim’s trademark irreverence, the sequel promises to push boundaries even further as the main character Zoe (Atlanta actor Andrea Laing) attempts to escape the murderous fireplace log by traveling to a quaint small town in a new country.
Photo courtesy of Adult Swim
Laing shares that the sequel offers a natural evolution for Zoe, amplifying both the stakes and the comedy. “These moments of vulnerability and self-doubt are at the heart of her character, and they’re woven into the larger, wackier narrative in a way that feels raw and relatable,” she says.
At a time when Atlanta’s film industry is grappling with a notable downturn in productions, the film serves as a reminder to viewers and studio executives of the city’s enduring presence in entertainment and the creativity that Atlanta filmmakers bring to the screen.
For Laing, the film is more than just another acting credit—it’s a chance to spotlight the cailbre and camaraderie of Atlanta’s film community. “I’ve worked with so many talented local actors and crew members, and there’s a real sense of community,” she says.
When asked what she hopes audiences will take away from the sequel, Laing channels Zoe’s knack for finding clarity in chaos: “I hope audiences take away this sense of acceptance—acceptance that life is messy … and that it’s okay to find humor in the weirdest, most inexplicable parts of our journey.”
Watch Adult Swim’s Yule Log 2: Branchin’ Out on December 6 at midnight. Both films will be available to stream on HBOMax on December 7.
Photo courtesy of Adult Swim
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