James Cameron has become involved as an executive producer in the upcoming action film Painter, which stars Walton Goggins alongside Amber Midthunder. This project will showcase the talents of those involved, with production now under 20th Century Studios. The James Cameron Painter movie aims to deliver a fresh take on the action genre.
A Closer Look at the Plot and Creative Team
Directed by Garrett Warren, who has extensive experience as a stunt coordinator, Painter is based on a screenplay by Derek Kolstad, known for writing John Wick. The story follows a young woman on a determined journey to save her kidnapped father, relying on the skills she honed during her training. The film promises high-intensity sequences and a strong central character driving the narrative.
Infrared president Drew Simon, discussing the film’s potential, said,
“Painter will be a seminal action hero film, making Midthunder into this generation’s Sarah Connor (Terminator).”
He also expressed optimism about the screenplay and direction:
“We loved [Derek] Kolstad’s high-octane script, and we know with Garrett Warren at the helm this film will kickstart an exciting new franchise in the world of action.”
Cast Updates and Walton Goggins’ Recent Work
Walton Goggins replaced Alan Ritchson in Painter due to scheduling conflicts, joining Amber Midthunder as a leading presence. Recently, Goggins appeared in films such as Queen of the Ring, The Uninvited, and The Luckiest Man in America, all released in 2024. Additionally, in 2025, he featured prominently in the third season of HBO’s The White Lotus and is set to return as The Ghoul in Amazon’s Fallout series later this year.
Why Painter Matters in Today’s Action Landscape
The involvement of James Cameron as executive producer, combined with the talents of Derek Kolstad and Garrett Warren, positions Painter as a noteworthy addition to the action genre. The film’s focus on a young woman hero resonates with contemporary trends toward strong, complex protagonists. With its potential to spark a new franchise, Painter could significantly impact upcoming action cinema.
