Hannah Einbinder on Hacks, Queer Horror, and Hollywood's Boldest 2026

Hannah Einbinder, the Emmy-nominated star of Hacks, is making waves in Hollywood with her bold new queer horror film Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma. In a candid interview, she reveals how the project helped her confront deep-seated shame and embrace desire.

From Hacks to Queer Horror: A Career Shift

Einbinder, who played Ava Daniels in the acclaimed HBO series Hacks, has transitioned to the big screen with a role that challenges her personally and professionally. The film, directed by Jane Schoenbrun, premiered at Cannes and became a breakout hit. Einbinder plays Kris, a filmmaker obsessed with a reclusive horror star, played by Gillian Anderson.

The actress admits the script resonated deeply. "Its through-line of confronting shame and dealing with repression and dissociation was intriguing to me," she says. This role forced her to "mine her own experiences" and face uncomfortable truths about desire and self-worth.

Confronting Shame and Self-Esteem

Einbinder has been open about her struggles with self-esteem. "I was born without self-esteem," she laughs. The film's themes of repression and liberation mirror her own journey. She explains that the movie served as "a roadmap for how it's supposed to feel and what one should feel comfortable with doing or saying."

Her willingness to sit with discomfort is a hallmark of her approach to acting. Whether in comedy or horror, she brings a raw authenticity that resonates with audiences.

Hacks Ending and New Beginnings

With Hacks ending in 2025, Einbinder is embracing new opportunities. She describes this period as "an embarrassment of riches," balancing the success of Camp Miasma with other projects. Her career trajectory shows a deliberate choice to take on roles that push boundaries and spark conversation.

Key Takeaways from the Interview

• Einbinder's role in Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma is a departure from comedy, exploring queer horror and psychological depth.
• She credits the film for helping her become "more open about desire" and setting personal boundaries.
• Her candidness about low self-esteem makes her a relatable and outspoken figure in Hollywood.
• The film's success at Cannes signals a growing appetite for queer narratives in mainstream cinema.

Comparison: Hacks vs. Camp Miasma

Why This Role Matters

Einbinder's performance in Camp Miasma is being hailed as a breakthrough. It showcases her range beyond comedy and aligns with a broader cultural shift toward authentic queer storytelling. Her willingness to explore vulnerability on screen is inspiring a new generation of actors.

FAQ

Hannah Einbinder's journey from sitcom star to horror film lead is a testament to her courage and versatility. As she continues to break new ground, audiences can expect more fearless performances that challenge conventions and spark important conversations.