The first official poster for Buddy has been released, offering a distorted look at the smiling orange unicorn at the center of the upcoming horror-comedy.

The image presents Buddy through the flickering screen of an old television. His bright orange costume and friendly expression initially resemble the host of a harmless children’s program, but the heavy static and warped picture make the character feel far more threatening.

The words “From the creators of Friendship and Weapons” appear above the image, while the title sits beneath Buddy’s face in bold red lettering.

The poster reflects the film’s central idea: something violent and disturbing is hiding inside a colorful television show designed to make children feel safe.

Buddy takes place inside It’s Buddy!, a cheerful children’s program where a group of young performers sing, dance and help their unicorn host teach lessons about happiness and friendship.

That perfect world begins to fall apart after one child refuses to continue playing along. Buddy’s friendly personality starts to crack, revealing the violent force hiding beneath the costume.

Delaney Quinn stars as Freddy, one of the children attempting to escape the television show. Cristin Milioti plays Grace, while Topher Grace appears as Ben.

Keegan-Michael Key provides the voice of Buddy. The cast also includes Michael Shannon and Patton Oswalt.

Buddy is written and directed by Casper Kelly, the filmmaker behind the Adult Swim short Too Many Cooks. Kelly co-wrote the screenplay with Jamie King.

The film premiered at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival before Roadside Attractions and Saban Films acquired it for a wide theatrical release.

The first poster arrives alongside a second teaser and upcoming promotional appearances planned around San Diego Comic-Con.

Buddy opens in theaters on August 28, 2026.