Samuel L. Jackson, Eva Green & María Pedraza To Star in Thriller Just Play Dead
The upcoming thriller Just Play Dead is generating major buzz at the Cannes Market. With an A-list cast led by Samuel L. Jackson, Eva Green, and María Pedraza, this high-stakes thriller promises to deliver suspense, betrayal, and shocking twists. Directed by Gary Fleder (Homefront) and written by Dan Gordon (Rambo: Last Blood), the film is poised to become one of the most talked-about projects in development.
The Plot of Just Play Dead
When wealthy criminal mastermind Jack Wolfe (Samuel L. Jackson) finds himself cornered by the Feds, he hatches a bold plan: fake his death, collect a $30 million life insurance payout, and frame his wife’s lover, Chad (María Pedraza), for the “murder.”
But Wolfe’s wife Nora (Eva Green) has her own deadly scheme. She intends to kill Jack for real, frame Chad, and keep the fortune all to herself. What follows is a deadly chess match of lies, deceit, and betrayal—raising one chilling question: Who will come out on top in this twisted game of life and death?
The Cast & Characters
- Samuel L. Jackson as Jack Wolfe — a powerful and cunning crime boss plotting his own fake death.
- Eva Green as Nora — Jack’s seductive yet dangerous wife, determined to outwit him.
- María Pedraza as Chad — Nora’s lover who finds himself caught in a deadly setup.
This trio promises explosive performances in a story where no one can be trusted.
Behind the Camera: Director, Writer & Producers
Just Play Dead is helmed by director Gary Fleder, best known for Homefront, and written by Dan Gordon, whose credits include Rambo: Last Blood.
The project is a European co-production led by Phil Hunt of Head Gear Films, alongside Valentin Dimitrov, Sagiv Diamant, Moshe Diamant, and Gaby Whyte Hart (who also serves as casting director).
It is executive produced by Arianne Fraser and Delphine Perrier for Highland Film Group, which is also co-financing the project and handling international sales. CAA Media Finance is managing U.S. domestic rights.
Filming is scheduled to begin this fall in the Canary Islands, providing a striking backdrop for the film’s dark, thrilling narrative.
Meet the Casting Director: Gaby Whyte Hart
One of the key creative figures behind Just Play Dead is Gaby Whyte Hart, who plays a dual role as both producer and casting director.
With a career spanning over 15 years in the film industry, Gaby began working in film at just 17 years old. She studied at the New York Film Academy and later completed her master’s in producing for the screen at Kings University in London.
Her career includes producing and directing several short films that earned recognition at international film festivals, achieving four nominations and one win. As casting director of Just Play Dead, Gaby was instrumental in securing powerhouse talents like Samuel L. Jackson, Eva Green, and María Pedraza, ensuring that the film’s tense and layered characters are brought to life with authenticity and impact.
Industry Buzz at Cannes
The project has already become a hot title at the Cannes Market. Highland Film Group CEO Arianne Fraser praised the film’s cast, saying:
“Working with such incredible talents as Samuel L. Jackson and Eva Green is truly an honor. Eva Green will deliver a captivating performance as the cunning and seductive wife to Samuel L. Jackson’s powerful kingpin in this intoxicating thriller.”
Highland COO Delphine Perrier added:
“Dan Gordon has crafted a complex tale of lies, deceit, and betrayal, and Gary Fleder is the ideal director to bring this enticing and suspenseful project to life.”
Director Gary Fleder also shared his excitement, noting:
“This film is provocative, sexy, and original—a perfect mix of clever storytelling and thrilling twists.”
Casting Opportunities
With filming scheduled to start later this year, casting calls for Just Play Dead could be announced soon. This international production offers exciting opportunities for actors and entertainment professionals to get involved in a high-profile thriller.
👉 For audition updates and the latest casting calls for Just Play Dead, stay tuned to Project Casting. We’ll keep you posted as soon as opportunities become available.
