Dacre Montgomery, the star of Stranger Things and Elvis, is poised to make his directorial debut with the upcoming film The Engagement Party, which is generating significant buzz ahead of its planned shoot later this year. Montgomery will not only direct but also star in the film, alongside a talented cast that includes Lily Sullivan, Abbey Lee, and Arlo Green.
Metro International has taken charge of sales for the Cannes market, while Madman Entertainment will handle distribution in Australia and New Zealand. The film's intriguing synopsis sets the stage for a gripping narrative: "On a beautiful, secluded island, amidst the golden rays and ocean breeze of a stunning beach house, two couples reunite to celebrate a momentous occasion. Until a conflicting memory arises which threatens to tear their relationships apart. With each wave crashing against the shore, the line between memory and manipulation blurs, forcing them to confront a question they’ve tried to forget: What really happened that night?" This premise hints at deeper themes lurking beneath the surface of a seemingly joyous celebration.
Producers Nick Batzias and Virginia Whitwell, who are affiliated with GoodThing Productions, along with Ian Booth and Nash Edgerton, have expressed their enthusiasm for the project. They noted, "We felt strongly that this was a special film from the start. It’s a bold and unique exploration of trauma, love, friendship, and consent. Writer Jory Anast and director Dacre Montgomery are brave and fearless storytellers, and we’re delighted to be working with them on this important film." Jory Anast, who previously collaborated with Montgomery on the film Went Up the Hill, serves as the screenwriter for The Engagement Party.
Montgomery shared his thoughts on the project, stating, "I could not be more honoured to be directing The Engagement Party, a film with an extremely important and timely message. I’m equally thrilled to have such a wonderful team of collaborators to help bring this story to life." His passion for the subject matter and the collaborative effort behind the film is evident.
The cast features a blend of rising stars and established talent. Lily Sullivan, known for her lead role in the 2023 horror film Evil Dead Rise, will bring her experience to the ensemble. Abbey Lee, who gained recognition for her role as one of Immortan Joe's wives in Mad Max: Fury Road, and Arlo Green, who appeared in the sci-fi horror hit M3GAN, round out the cast. Their previous work in major franchises positions them well to tackle the emotional complexities of The Engagement Party.
Montgomery's journey in the film industry has been notable. He first captured audiences' attention as Billy Hargrove in Stranger Things, where he became a fan favorite during the series' second and third seasons and made a guest appearance in the fourth. His versatility was further showcased in the 2017 Power Rangers reboot, where he portrayed Jason Scott/Red Ranger, and in the biopic Elvis, where he played Steve Binder, the director of Elvis Presley’s iconic 1968 comeback special.
As Montgomery steps into the role of director, he joins a growing list of actors who have transitioned behind the camera. His directorial debut is particularly significant, as it reflects a shift in his career that allows him to explore storytelling from a new perspective. The film's themes of trauma and memory resonate in today's cultural landscape, making it a timely project.
With the film set to begin production later this year, anticipation is building within the industry and among fans. The combination of a compelling narrative, a talented cast, and a passionate director positions The Engagement Party as a potentially impactful addition to the cinematic landscape. As Montgomery continues to evolve as an artist, his directorial debut will undoubtedly be a moment to watch.
In an era where films are increasingly scrutinized for their messages and themes, The Engagement Party aims to navigate complex emotional territory. The exploration of relationships, memory, and the darker aspects of human experience promises to engage audiences on multiple levels. As the film moves forward, it will be interesting to see how Montgomery’s vision translates to the screen and resonates with viewers.
As the production gears up, the involvement of experienced producers and a talented cast suggests that The Engagement Party could make a significant mark at film festivals, particularly at Cannes, where it will be showcased. The film's unique premise and the buzz surrounding Montgomery's directorial debut are likely to draw attention, making it a must-watch for cinephiles.
In conclusion, Dacre Montgomery's foray into directing with The Engagement Party marks an exciting chapter in his career, blending his acting prowess with a new creative role. With a strong narrative foundation and a collaborative team, the film is set to explore themes that resonate deeply in contemporary society, promising to leave an impact long after the credits roll.
