Michael B. Jordan is stepping behind the camera once again, this time for a reimagining of the classic heist thriller, The Thomas Crown Affair. The versatile actor and director has successfully cast Taylor Russell as his leading lady, marking another significant role for the rising star.
The news of Russell's casting came following a highly competitive audition process and was confirmed earlier this year, with her securing the role after impressing during a London screen test alongside Jordan. This will be Jordan's second feature film as director; he initially made his directorial debut with Creed III, where he also starred.
This fresh take on The Thomas Crown Affair will begin production this summer in London under the banner of Amazon MGM Studios, with Jordan producing through his own Outlier Society production company, alongside Elizabeth Raposo. The film will be co-produced by Patrick McCormick and Marc Toberoff.
While specific plot details of the new adaptation remain under wraps, the narrative traditionally revolves around the exploits of a wealthy playboy who masterminds high-stakes heists. Along the way, he encounters challenging investigators - roles which have proven to be pivotal, particularly for the female leads. Previous incarnations of the film featured strong performances by Faye Dunaway, alongside Steve McQueen, and Rene Russo, opposite Pierce Brosnan.
Russell's character is expected to hold substantial significance within the film, blending elements of intrigue and romance, which are characteristic of the Thomas Crown Affair legacy. The actress has quickly built an impressive career, with her breakout role coming from the Netflix sci-fi series Lost in Space. She garnered acclaim for her performances in Waves and Bones and All, establishing herself as one of Hollywood's promising talents.
The script for the new Thomas Crown Affair is penned by Drew Pearce, known for his work on Iron Man 3, and is based on earlier drafts by Wes Tooke and Justin Britt-Gibson. Notably, Alan Trustman, the original writer of the 1968 film, is also attached as an executive producer, underscoring the connection to its storied past.
Jordan's endeavor is poised to breathe new life and contemporary perspective to this timeless story, which has captivated audiences since its original release. By emphasizing the importance of its female lead, akin to its historical predecessors, the film aims to honor past performances, setting expectations high for Russell's contribution.
With the backdrop of London's exciting film scene, and the combined star power of Jordan and Russell, this adaptation of The Thomas Crown Affair is shaping up to not only be another exciting chapter for those familiar with the franchise but also to attract new audiences eager for suspense-filled storytelling, enhanced by compelling characters.
Fans of both Russell and Jordan, as well as those who appreciate heist films, will undoubtedly be eagerly anticipating the summer production start. This collaboration not only highlights the creative ambitions of Jordan—who aims to establish himself as both actor and director—but also provides Russell with the platform to shine alongside her esteemed co-star.
Even as the film industry prepares for the project, the legacy of The Thomas Crown Affair continues, reminding audiences of the enduring allure of well-crafted tales of love, crime, and cunning, against rich and lush backdrops. With Jordan and Russell at its helm, this adaptation promises to honor and innovate upon the original's spirit.