Kristoffer Polaha Directorial Debut ‘Mimics’ Secures Nationwide Theatrical Release

Hallmark star Kristoffer Polaha is celebrating a major career milestone. His directorial debut, the feature film “Mimics,” has been acquired for a nationwide release. The movie will hit theaters on February 6, 2026. This fulfills a three-decade-long dream for the beloved actor.

The film was acquired by Panoramic Pictures. Polaha expressed immense pride in the project’s completion. He described the collaborative filmmaking process as the joy of his career so far.

Inside Kristoffer Polaha’s Genre-Bending Directorial Debut

The first trailer for “Mimics” dropped on October 16. The film is described as a genre-bending mix of horror, fun, and romance. Polaha both directs and stars in the movie.

He plays a down-on-his-luck impressionist named Sam Reinhold. Sam makes a pact with a wicked puppet named Fergus. This deal for stardom unleashes a nightmare for his loved ones. According to EntertainmentNow, the logline promises laughs and scares.

The cast includes Kevin Lawson, Mōriah, and Chris Parnell. Filming took place over 15 days in Polaha’s hometown of Reno, Nevada. He was intimately involved in every step, from script development to securing funding.

A Three-Decade Dream Realized for the Hallmark Star

Polaha’s dream of directing an independent film began 30 years ago. He told EntertainmentNow it started after watching “Pulp Fiction” in 1994. He decided then to break into the industry as an actor to eventually make his own films.

His acting career includes TV series and major movies. He has also become a staple of Hallmark Channel romances. Despite this success, he never let go of his directorial ambition.

He called the completion of “Mimics” a “wild thing.” The world premiere was held in Reno in late September. Panoramic Pictures plans a limited release in roughly 400 theaters initially.

The goal is for audience demand to spur a wider rollout. Polaha hopes the film performs well but remains proud regardless of its financial success. He sees its very existence as a victory.

The nationwide release of Mimics marks a significant pivot for Kristoffer Polaha from actor to director. This long-awaited project brings his unique creative vision to the big screen. Fans can witness his directorial debut in theaters starting February 2026.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the plot of Kristoffer Polaha’s movie ‘Mimics’?

It follows a struggling impressionist who makes a deal with a puppet for fame. The pact unleashes a dangerous nightmare. The story blends horror, romance, and comedy.

When will ‘Mimics’ be released in theaters?

The film is scheduled for a theatrical release on February 6, 2026. It will begin with a limited run in approximately 400 theaters. A wider release may follow based on its performance.

Who stars in the film alongside Kristoffer Polaha?

The cast includes Kevin Lawson, Latin country artist Mōriah, and Chris Parnell. Jesse Hutch and Stephen Tobolowsky also appear. Polaha serves as both director and lead actor.

Where was ‘Mimics’ filmed?

The movie was shot entirely in Kristoffer Polaha’s hometown of Reno, Nevada. Filming took 15 days during the summer of 2024. The local premiere was also held there.

Why is this movie so important to Kristoffer Polaha?

It fulfills a 30-year dream to direct an independent feature film. He first conceived the goal after seeing “Pulp Fiction” in 1994. He calls the project the joy of his career.