By Isabelle Wilson-
Renowned actor Idris Elba(pictured) is set to delve into a thrilling new role, this time as the mission commander, Jackson, in the survival thriller “Above the Below.”
The film, which Elba will also direct alongside Martin Owen, has piqued Lionsgate’s interest, securing the worldwide distribution rights.
Elba and The Loneliest Boy in the World’s Martin Owen are helming a new survival thriller that’s largely set underwater for Lionsgate. The movie, which started filming last week, also stars Caitlin FitzGerald and Hero Fiennes Tiffin alongside Elba.
Filming for “Above the Below” commenced last week at Pinewood Studios, utilizing two stages, including an underwater set.
The movie features a stellar ensemble cast, with Elba joined by actress Caitlin FitzGerald and rising star Hero Fiennes Tiffin, who reunites with Owen following their collaboration on “The Loneliest Boy in The World.”
Actress Caitlin FitzGerald
Below” revolves around a trio of astronauts who endure a tumultuous and destructive re-entry to Earth. Their survival instincts are put to the ultimate test as they find themselves adrift, cut off from the world and off course.
Plunging into the depths of the ocean within their capsule, the film chronicles their desperate struggle for survival.
FitzGerald portrays Brooks, the mission’s resilient and resolute co-pilot, while Fiennes Tiffin embodies Rhodes, an optimistic astronaut on his inaugural space mission.
The screenplay which was conceived by Martin Owen was developed by Future Artists Entertainment and written by Elizabeth Morris, Matt Mitchell, and Vicki Sargent.
Elba, who is celebrated for his diverse acting repertoire spanning films like “Luther,” “The Suicide Squad,” and “Hobbs & Shaw,” steps into the director’s chair once again following his directorial debut with “Yardie.” FitzGerald, known for her roles in “Masters of Sex,” “Succession,” and “Trial of the Chicago 7,” joins the stellar cast alongside Fiennes Tiffin, recognized for his breakout performance in “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” and his recent role in Sony’s “The Woman King.”
CEO of Future Artists Entertainment, Matt Williams, expressed enthusiasm for the challenging shoot, emphasizing that “Above the Below” will deliver an unforgettable cinematic experience exploring the extremes of survival against all odds.
The film’s production will be steered by producers Matt Williams and Gina Carter, with Pascal Degove, former managing director of Goldcrest Films, serving as the executive producer.
Helen Lee Kim, president of global sales at Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, hailed the collaboration with Elba, Owen, and the talented cast as a thrilling opportunity to deliver an exhilarating cinematic journey for audiences in 2024.
Elba, FitzGerald, and Fiennes Tiffin are represented by their respective agencies in what promises to be an enthralling venture blending directorial prowess, compelling performances, and gripping storytelling.