Exciting New Crime Thriller Set in Hawaii from 20th Century Studios
20th Century Studios, a division of Disney, is making waves with its latest acquisition: a crime thriller set against the stunning backdrop of Hawaii. This highly anticipated project boasts an impressive cast including Leonardo DiCaprio, Dwayne Johnson, and Emily Blunt, alongside legendary director Martin Scorsese.
Plot Insights
This untitled film, brought to life through a screenplay by journalist and author Nick Bilton, draws inspiration from true events and carries the dramatic essence reminiscent of Scorsese’s iconic films such as Goodfellas and The Departed. Set during the 1960s and 1970s, the narrative follows a powerful mob boss as he battles for dominance over the Hawaiian islands, engaging in ruthless conflicts with mainland corporations and rival criminal organizations while striving to protect his ancestral land.
Collaboration and Production Team
The film’s production is a collective effort from all major players involved. Scorsese will produce through his Sikelia Productions, while Johnson will lead production with Seven Bucks Productions. DiCaprio’s Appian Way Productions and Blunt’s Ledbury Productions will also contribute to the project, with Bilton joining them as a producer.
Project Origins
The idea for the film originated from the strong friendship between Blunt and Johnson, which has paved the way for further collaboration. Johnson is also teaming up with Bilton to co-author a book that explores similar themes related to this compelling story.
The Untold Story of Power and Survival
At its core, the film unveils a captivating true story of a man who endeavored to safeguard his homeland amid a relentless pursuit of power. This narrative captures the essence of the last major American mob saga, where the struggle for cultural survival unfolds in the most unexpected locale: paradise.
Creative Executives Backing the Project
In addition to the primary producers, several industry veterans will serve as executive producers, including Dany Garcia from Seven Bucks Productions, Lisa Frechette from Sikelia Productions, and Rick Yorn and Chris Donnelly from LBI Entertainment.
A New Era for 20th Century Studios
Earlier this year, Seven Bucks Productions, co-founded by Johnson and Garcia, entered into a first-look deal with Disney to create films for both theatrical release and streaming platforms. This project marks one of the inaugural outputs from that partnership, signaling a revitalized vision for 20th Century Studios.
The Hawaii-based package emerged as one of the standout offerings in a star-studded auction last month. The fact that 20th Century secured the project—rather than major competitors like Warner Bros. or various streaming services—illustrates the ambitious transformation underway at Disney’s live-action division under the leadership of David Greenbaum, who has been at the helm for a year.
Future Vision
Greenbaum’s strategy aims to position 20th Century as a premier destination for high-caliber films while fostering connections with renowned filmmakers. In the past year, the division, overseen by president Steve Asbell, has also greenlit Ridley Scott’s upcoming feature Dog Star and the time travel narrative The Barrier from Edward Berger and Austin Butler, in addition to completing production on the Bruce Springsteen biopic Deliver Me From Nowhere, featuring Jeremy Allan White.