Rising star Austin Abrams has been cast in the lead role for Whalefall, a highly anticipated adaptation of Daniel Kraus’ novel, produced by 20th Century Studios. Brian Duffield, who will direct, is also co-writing the script alongside Kraus.
The film is being described as a gripping blend of The Martian and 127 Hours, focusing on a scuba diver who embarks on a quest to find his deceased father’s remains. However, his mission takes a shocking turn when he is swallowed by an 80-foot, 60-ton sperm whale, leaving him with only an hour of oxygen to escape. After initially surrendering to despair, the diver discovers a renewed will to live in the most perilous of circumstances.
Produced by Brian Grazer, Jeb Brody, and Allan Mandelbaum of Imagine Entertainment, Whalefall has attracted considerable attention since 20th Century Studios secured distribution rights through a competitive bidding process last year. The project quickly became a priority for the studio, and in recent weeks, a heated casting search ensued, with several young actors auditioning for the coveted role. Duffield and studio executives tested the final group of actors last week.
In addition to Duffield’s directorial and producing duties, Richard Abate and Will Rowbotham of 3 Arts Entertainment will serve as executive producers, with J.R. Young overseeing the project for the studio.
Whalefall has already generated significant buzz in the literary world, gaining critical praise from readers and industry insiders alike.
Abrams, who recently starred opposite George Clooney and Brad Pitt in Jon Watts’ Wolfs, continues to rise in Hollywood. The film, which premiered at the Venice Film Festival, saw a limited theatrical release in September 2024 and debuted on Apple TV+. Additionally, Abrams appeared in Ethan Berger’s The Line, which was showcased at the 2023 Tribeca Film Festival before its October 2024 theatrical release. On television, Abrams starred in Mark Duplass and Mel Eslyn’s series Penelope, which premiered at Sundance and debuted on Netflix in September 2024.
Next, Abrams will appear in the mystery thriller Weapons, directed by Zach Cregger. The film, set to release on January 16, 2026, also features Josh Brolin, Julia Garner, and Alden Ehrenreich.
Known for his breakout role as Ethan on HBO’s Euphoria, Abrams also gained widespread recognition for his role in Jennifer Kaytin Robinson’s Do Revenge, which became Netflix’s most-watched program upon its release. Abrams is represented by WME, Amplified, and attorney Derek Kroeger.
Duffield, acclaimed for his work on No One Will Save You, which earned critical nominations, will direct Whalefall. The film’s release date is yet to be confirmed.
Imagine Entertainment’s most recent production, After the Hunt, directed by Luca Guadagnino, is slated for release in theaters on October 10.
Related topic:
Blake Lively to Attend World Premiere of “Another Simple Favor” at SXSW
Bleecker Street Acquires ‘The Third Parent’ for North American Release
Pattinson Teases “The Batman 2” Return and Filming Plans