Julia Garner has been cast alongside Charlize Theron in the highly anticipated thriller Tyrant, set to begin filming later this year in New York City. The movie, featuring the collaboration of director David Weil and writer Cody Behan, will explore the competitive world of upscale culinary arts under the banner of Amazon MGM Studios.
New Thriller Bringing Together Top Talent
Thirty-one-year-old Julia Garner will star opposite Charlize Theron, who is also producing the film through her company Secret Menu with partners Beth Kono and A.J. Dix. David Weil, notable as the creator of the Amazon Prime Video series Hunters, takes on both directing and writing responsibilities for Tyrant, working alongside Cody Behan to craft the story.
The plot remains tightly guarded, but reports suggest the film’s intensity will be reminiscent of the 2014 music drama Whiplash, starring Miles Teller and J.K. Simmons. Set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City, the narrative will focus on the high-stakes environment of the city’s elite culinary scene.
Production and Creative Team Behind Tyrant
In addition to Theron’s Secret Menu, the film will be produced by Weil and his partner Natalie Laine Williams. The Picture Company’s Alex Heineman and Andrew Rona also participate as producers, signaling a strong ensemble committed to delivering a gripping thriller.
Julia Garner’s Career Momentum and New Projects
Garner recently completed a successful year with performances in films including Wolf Man, The Fantastic Four: First Steps, and Weapons, all slated for 2025 release. Beyond Tyrant, she has signed on for an upcoming biopic about Madonna, which is currently in development.
Speaking with W Magazine about the biopic, Garner shared,
“I can’t say too much about it, but yes, it’s a work in progress.”
Julia also revealed her admiration for Madonna’s music, naming several favorite tracks:
“I love Borderline, that’s probably my favourite. I also love Papa Don’t Preach. I love Burning Up. I love Confessions on a Dance Floor. I grew up with that album. Obviously Vogue, and Ray of Light,”
she said.
“And I just love Madonna’s voice on Papa Don’t Preach. There’s a lot of emotions in that song and I love that.”
Audition Experience for the Madonna Biopic
Garner recounted her audition process during a podcast appearance, emphasizing the challenge of learning to dance and sing convincingly to meet Madonna’s exacting standards. She described her mindset:
“I was kind of like, ‘You can take it or leave it, but if you leave it, if I leave, then that’s on you.’”
This determination highlighted her commitment to embodying the role authentically despite not being a trained dancer initially.
Anticipated Impact and What’s Next
The collaboration between Garner and Theron in Tyrant marks a compelling addition to the thriller genre, blending intense performances with a vivid New York City setting. With David Weil’s direction and a powerhouse production team, the film promises to deliver a tense portrayal of ambition and artistry within the competitive culinary world. As production begins later this year, audiences can look forward to a captivating story that unites notable talent from film and television.
