Will Smith is heading to the world’s most secure prison for his next major role. The Oscar winner is set to star in David Gordon Green’s upcoming action-thriller ‘Supermax’ as Rex, one of two FBI agents tasked with investigating a high-profile murder within the facility. The project marks a notable shift for Smith, serving as his first non-franchise studio film in recent years.
Amazon MGM Studios locked in the film’s future this week, jumping ahead of the competition to buy the global rights for around $70 million just before the Cannes Film Festival—underscoring the major interest in the Miramax project. While further plot details remain undisclosed, casting is currently underway for Smith’s partner—a female FBI agent who will join him in navigating the high-security investigation.
The screenplay was written by David Weil and David J. Rosen, both of whom will also serve as executive producers. The production team includes Andrew Rona and Alex Heineman for The Picture Company, while Will Smith and Adam Fishbach will produce through Westbrook Inc.
Executive producers include Natalie Laine Williams, along with Miramax’s leadership: CEO Jonathan Glickman, President of Film Alexandra Loewy, COO Thom Zadra, and SVP Spencer Ela.
The deal was brokered by CAA Media Finance, and production is expected to begin this August.
–Dominique Young // @heyyydommm