In the city of cinema, where the art of storytelling reigns supreme, a new thriller is generating buzz that’s impossible to ignore. As the curtains draw open on the Cannes Market, a dream cast is coming together for “Just Play Dead”, a gripping tale of suspense that promises to keep them on the edge of their seats. Academy Award nominee Samuel L. Jackson, known for his intense performances, is set to star alongside the enigmatic Eva Green, and the captivating Maria Pedraza. This powerhouse trio is poised to bring a level of sophistication and intrigue to the thriller genre, and we can’t wait to see the sparks fly.
Thriller Alert: Star-Studded Cast Unveils Twisted Game of Life and Death

Samuel L. Jackson, Eva Green, and Maria Pedraza are set to star in the thriller Just Play Dead, we can reveal. The film will be directed by Gary Fleder and is written by Dan Gordon. The synopsis reads: “When wealthy criminal mastermind Jack Wolfe (Samuel L. Jackson) is cornered by the Feds, he plans to fake his own death and claim the $30 million life insurance payout with his “grieving” wife Nora (Eva Green), while framing her surfer lover Chad for his murder. But Nora is cooking up a scheme of her own: kill Jack for real, frame Chad and keep the fortune for herself. As lies unravel, Nora and Jack scramble to outsmart one another, leaving one burning question: who will come out on top in this twisted game of life and death?”
Pic is a European co-production spearheaded by Head Gear Films’ Phil Hunt who produces alongside Gemstone Films’ Valentin Dimitrov, Sagiv Diamant, Moshe Diamant and Gaby Whyte Hart, who also serves as the casting director. It is executive produced by Arianne Fraser and Delphine Perrier for Highland Film Group.

Behind the Scenes: Production Powerhouse
Phil Hunt, Valentin Dimitrov, Sagiv Diamant, Moshe Diamant, and Arianne Fraser come together to produce the film, with Highland Film Group co-financing and handling international rights.
From Cannes Market to the Big Screen
Highland Film Group is co-financing the film and handling international rights, with CAA Media Finance overseeing domestic rights at the Cannes market. Production is set to begin this fall in the Canary Islands.
“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,” said Highland Film Group CEO Arianne Fraser. “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, which is already attracting buyers worldwide,” added Highland Film Group COO Delphine Perrier.
“I’ve always been drawn to stories that defy categorization, that live somewhere between genres and challenge audiences to stay on their toes. With Just Play Dead, written by the immensely talented Dan Gordon, and starring Samuel L. Jackson and Eva Green, I have the chance to return to that same rich, unpredictable territory. This film is provocative, sexy, and original—a perfect mix of clever storytelling and thrilling twists,” commented director Gary Fleder.
Market Buzz: International Rights and Domestic Distribution

Highland Film Group CEO Arianne Fraser and COO Delphine Perrier discuss the film’s global appeal, with CAA Media Finance overseeing domestic rights.
Casting Magic: Samuel L. Jackson, Eva Green, and Maria Pedraza Bring the Thrill
The film’s complex tale of lies, deceit, and betrayal is brought to life by the talented cast, with director Gary Fleder praising the script and the actors’ captivating performances.
The Art of Twisted Storytelling
Director Gary Fleder on the Film’s Provocative and Original Mix
Fleder discusses his attraction to stories that defy categorization, living between genres, and challenging audiences to stay on their toes.
The Thrill of the Chase and the Complexity of Human Nature
The film’s twisted game of life and death, with lies unraveling and characters scrambling to outsmart one another, raises questions about human nature and the stakes of survival.
Conclusion
The Thrilling Combination: ‘Just Play Dead’ Takes Center Stage
The recent announcement of Samuel L. Jackson, Eva Green, and Maria Pedraza joining forces for the thriller ‘Just Play Dead’ at the Cannes Market has sent shockwaves through the film industry. The star-studded cast brings together three incredibly talented actors, each with a proven track record of delivering unforgettable performances. This dynamic trio will undoubtedly bring a level of excitement and unpredictability to the film, making it a must-watch for thriller enthusiasts. Moreover, the involvement of renowned talent agent, ICM Partners, and production company, The Fyzz Facility, further solidifies the project’s potential for success.
The significance of this project lies in its ability to push the boundaries of the thriller genre, offering a fresh take on the traditional formula. With the combined talents of Jackson, Green, and Pedraza, ‘Just Play Dead’ is poised to captivate audiences worldwide, sparking conversations and debates about the nature of trauma, survival, and the human condition. As the film industry continues to evolve, projects like ‘Just Play Dead’ serve as a testament to the power of creative collaboration and the limitless potential for innovation.
As ‘Just Play Dead’ inches closer to production, fans and industry insiders alike are eagerly anticipating the release of this gripping thriller. With its talented cast, reputable production team, and innovative storytelling, this project has the potential to leave a lasting impact on the film industry. As we eagerly await the premiere of ‘Just Play Dead’, one thing is certain: this film will be a masterclass in tension, suspense, and emotional depth, leaving audiences on the edge of their seats and begging for more.