As the highly anticipated urban-exploration thriller “Do Not Enter” prepares for its U.S. release on March 20, 2026, the cast and crew gathered at a special red carpet screening in Los Angeles to share insights into the film’s intense production. Directed by Marc Klasfeld, the movie is an R-rated adaptation of David Morrell’s novel Creepers, following a group of thrill-seeking urban explorers who find themselves trapped in the abandoned and haunted Paragon Hotel. Among the stars in attendance was Jake Manley, who plays the character Rick.
Manley spoke candidly about his character’s motivations, the challenges of filming in unique locations, and how the project tapped into his real-life fears.
A Character Driven by Ethics and Passion
In the film, Jake Manley portrays Rick, a dedicated urban explorer with a strict personal code. Manley expressed a deep affinity for the role, noting that he loves Rick because of the character’s serious approach to his craft.
“Rick was just so serious about what they were doing and his ethics about the urban exploring,” Manley explained during the event. He described the role as a fun departure, highlighting the group dynamic and the strong element of adventure that initially drew him to the story.
While the film’s “Creepers” are known for pushing boundaries, Manley admitted that the experience of filming at the Paragon Hotel, a setting inspired by the dark history of New Jersey’s abandoned landmarks, gave him a new perspective on risk.
When asked about the lessons he took away from the screenplay, Manley was quick to note that he wouldn’t be following in Rick’s footsteps anytime soon. “I don’t know if I would be going in to explore one of those abandoned hotels to try and get some videos,” he said. “That’s what Rick and the group want to do. So, it definitely exposed my fears in real life”.
Collaboration and the Ensemble Experience
The production of “Do Not Enter” was as intense as the film itself, with much of the filming taking place in Bulgaria during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Manley emphasized the strength of the ensemble cast, which includes Adeline Rudolph, Francesca Reale, Shane Paul McGhie, Kai Caster, and Javier Botet.
Manley’s co-star Francesca Reale echoed this sentiment, describing the incredible cast as a blessing to work with. The group’s chemistry was forged through long production days, some scenes took up to five days to complete, and a shared commitment to bringing the film’s supernatural scares to life.
A Message for Horror Fans
As the premiere approached, Manley shared a simple message for audiences ready to experience the nightmare for themselves. “I hope they go and watch ‘Do Not Enter.’ It’s fun and I hope they tell me what they think about it, what they love about it, what they don’t love about it and to just keep watching things,” he said.
“Do Not Enter” arrives in select theaters, on digital, and On Demand on March 20, 2026.
