New faces, new heights: the ‘Cliffhanger’ reboot

A fresh take on a classic

The reboot of the action-packed thriller Cliffhanger is officially in production, promising a bold new vision. Nearly 18 months after the initial announcement, the project has undergone significant changes, setting the stage for an exciting cinematic experience.

The star-studded cast

Originally, Sylvester Stallone was set to reprise his iconic role, but the film has shifted direction. Now, Lily James (“The Iron Claw,” “Pam & Tommy”) will take the lead, with Pierce Brosnan joining her as a co-star. This dynamic pair will be directed by Jaume Collet-Serra (“Carry-On,” “Non-Stop”), who brings his unique style and expertise to the project.

Fresh faces add depth

Filming is currently underway in Austria, featuring an impressive supporting cast that includes Nell Tiger Free (“Servant,” “The First Omen”), celebrated indie actor Franz Rogowski (“Passages”), Shubham Saraf (“Shantaram”), Assaad Bouab (“Franklin”), Suzy Bemba (“Poor Things”), and Bruno Gouery, who gained fame from Netflix’s “Emily in Paris.”

A gripping new storyline

The updated script, based on a story by Ana Lily Amirpour, offers a fresh twist: a father-daughter narrative. Brosnan will portray seasoned mountaineer Ray Cooper, who runs a luxury chalet in the breathtaking Dolomites with his daughter Sydney. During a weekend getaway with a billionaire’s son, they become targets of a kidnapping gang. Naomi (James), still haunted by past traumas, must overcome her deep fears to rescue her family from this perilous situation.

High-caliber production

High expectations

Lars Sylvest, Joe Neurauter, and Thorsten Schumacher are producing the film, with Neal Moritz and Toby Jaffe also on board. The ambition to capture the scenic beauty of the Dolomites using large-format cameras is a testament to the dedication and vision of the creators. This approach ensures that viewers will be engrossed in a truly thrilling and visceral cinematic adventure.

Collet-Serra praised Lily James for her remarkable dedication, highlighting her extensive training and climbing sessions to prepare for the role. This commitment allowed the crew to secure breathtaking shots that elevate the film’s authenticity and excitement.

Behind the scenes

The collaborative spirit

The project exemplifies the collaborative nature of independent filmmaking. Executive producers include Ana Lily Amirpour, Chance Wright, Gianluca Chakra, Hisham Alghanim, Josef Brandmaier, Jeff Most, Katy Most, Matthew Stedman, and Philipp Kreuzer. Additionally, Kwesi Dickson, Jay Taylor, and several other notable names contribute to this exciting endeavor.

Industry veterans and rising stars

In a nod to independent filmmaking’s collaborative nature, many established and emerging talents are executive producers on this project. Notable names include Kwesi Dickson, Jay Taylor, and Rodrigo Tarazona.

Anticipation building

The buzz is real

“Cliffhanger” is poised for a theatrical release, with Rocket Science handling international sales, and CAA Media Finance representing North American and Chinese territories. Collaborations include Studiocanal, securing the film’s rights and ongoing support. Keen to deliver an unparalleled theatrical experience, the creators focus on both story and visual spectacle.

With an intense plot, stellar cast, and high production value, this reboot promises to be a true homage to the original while infusing it with fresh energy and modern storytelling techniques. It’s a thrilling time for fans of the genre, and anticipation is palpable. From the dramatic landscapes of the Dolomites to the complex character dynamics, this film is set to capture the essence of an action classic while exploring new thematic depths.

Stay connected

As we await the premiere, fans of Lily James, Pierce Brosnan, and action thrillers can keep an eye on this space for more exciting updates about the film’s progress and release. Follow along for the latest in cinematic news and behind-the-scenes insights.