Things are revving up when it comes to this buzzy project. Samuel L. Jackson is in talks for a key role in J.J. Abrams’ untitled feature at Warner Bros (via Deadline).
Jackson would be joining a cast that already includes Glen Powell, Jenna Ortega, and Emma Mackey. The film is expected to shoot in Spring 2025. No plot details have been revealed for this ultra secretive project which, contrary to rumors, does not deal with time travel.
The Hot Mic recently revealed that Abrams’ film might be an 80s throwback, and loosely inspired by “The Last Starfighter.” The story is said to tackle “an author of popular fantasy novels who reveals that the mythical world he’s known for creating is actually real, sending Powell’s character on a quest.”
A recent Production Weekly listing had Abrams’ film going by the name of “Acorns,” but when reached for comment, Abrams’ reps denied the title, and acknowledged that the film is currently untitled.
Suffice to say, it does look like Abrams is finally coming back to directing. He hasn’t helmed a film in over five years. He’s also had a few TV projects get canned. Abrams mostly produces now, if that. Recently, the UK’s Telegraph claimed that he was in “director’s jail.” He’s about to get bailed out.
Abrams is the creator of acclaimed shows such as “Felicity,” “Alias” and “Lost.” Then he “graduated” into film and directed “Mission: Impossible 3,” “Star Trek,” and “Super 8,” among others. He was even being dubbed “the next Spielberg.” Things haven’t worked out that way, and he’s now looking at making a comeback.