Dwayne Johnson teams up with Darren Aronofsky at A24 for what may become one of the studio‘s most anticipated films. Current reports indicate Johnson is engaged in two A24 projects, with the latest development hinting at Aronofsky possibly directing a newly announced film called Breakthrough.
A24’s collaboration with Johnson extends beyond his upcoming turn as Mark Kerr in Benny Safdie’s The Smashing Machine, set to release this October. The second project, Breakthrough, written by Zeke Goodman, was initially announced in May without a director attached. According to recent updates from Deadline, Aronofsky is in early talks to direct, though neither A24 nor the filmmaker has provided official comment.
Potential Reunion for Aronofsky and A24
If Aronofsky signs on, it would mark his return to working with A24, after the studio distributed his 2022 hit, The Whale. These talks arrive during a notably active period for Aronofsky. His next movie, Caught Stealing, featuring Austin Butler and Zoë Kravitz, is set to debut on August 29. Beyond traditional filmmaking, Aronofsky has recently been involved in a generative AI venture called Primordial Soup, which produced Eliza McNitt’s AI-generated film Ancestra. The film, which explores McNitt’s personal health ordeal, is premiering at the Tribeca Film Festival.
“own life-threatening birth, when doctors discovered a hole in her heart.”
—Eliza McNitt, Filmmaker
Breakthrough’s Unconventional Storyline and Dwayne Johnson’s Role
The premise of Breakthrough stands out for its unique plot, described as
“Set in turn-of-the-millennium Southern California, the story follows an alienated young man who comes under the influence of a motivational guru, whose intoxicating charm masks his morally questionable methods of manipulation and his own concealed darkness.”
—Deadline
Dwayne Johnson is expected to portray the enigmatic guru. Casting for the young male lead is currently underway, and confirmation of Aronofsky’s involvement is anticipated soon. This narrative marks a noticeable shift for Johnson, known for action-driven and comedic roles, as he navigates a character described with moral ambiguity and hidden motives.
Industry Context and What Comes Next
Should Aronofsky confirm his commitment to Breakthrough, it will underscore a significant new collaboration between high-profile industry figures and a studio renowned for creative risk-taking. The film‘s plot, compared by some to psychological dramas like Fight Club, may attract attention from both critics and audiences, especially with Dwayne Johnson in an unconventional role. With project details unfolding, further announcements about casting and production are expected in the coming weeks, setting the stage for A24’s next headline-making release.
