This is why I'm not a betting man. Speculation in the aftermath of Canuck creature feature Jack Brooks Monster Slayer was that the creative forces behind that film would return quickly to the same well to create a sequel, speculation reinforced by Brooks' sequel friendly ending and by comments made by the stars and director when the film was on the fest circuit. Well, all that speculation was wrong. The core creative team behind Jack Brooks starts production on their next feature next week and Jack Brooks 2 it aint, instead what we're getting is what appears to be a far more serious horror picture titled The Shrine.

After a young American backpacker goes missing in Europe, three journalists link his disappearance to a remote Polish village called Alvaina. Upon further investigation, the journalists discover that Alvaina has a history of bizarre cult activity revolving around human sacrifice. Hell bent on discovering the truth, they travel to the small village, but quickly find themselves pursued by a mysterious group set on killing them. Forced into the gruesome reality of true survival horror, the journalists soon discover that Alvaina hides a much darker secret than they could ever imagine.

The Shrine stars Aaron Ashmore (“The Thaw,” “Smallville,” “Veronica Mars,” “The Stone Angel,”) Trevor Matthews (“Jack Brooks: Monster Slayer,” “Moment of Truth,” “Still Life,” “Teen Massacre,”) and Cindy Sampson (“The Factory,” “High Plains Invaders,” “Durham County.”). More cast members to be announced soon. Jon Knautz returns as director for his second feature with Brookstreet Pictures, following Jack Brooks: Monster Slayer. He also co-writes with Brendan Moore. Trevor Matthews serves as executive producer with J. Michael Dawson producing. Director of photography James Griffith, production designer Craig Harris, special FX make-up David Scott, and costume designer Laura Montgomery complete the creative team.

I'm told the team will be blogging throughout production, so keep an eye on the official site for updates!