Robert De NiroandShia LaBeoufare two of the fall’s most interesting stories. De Niro stars in DC’sJokerand Netflix’sThe Irishman, and on the latter front, everyone is hoping the two-time Oscar winner will conjure some of his old magic. Meanwhile, LaBeouf continues to make a case for himself as one of the most talented actors of his generation, and he has the semi-autobiographicalHoney Boyarriving on the heels of his soulful turn inThe Peanut Butter Falcon. These two actors could, conceivably, find themselves on the awards campaign trail this year, and now they’re attached to star together in the redemption dramaAfter Exile.
Joshua Michael Stern(Jobs) is directing from a script byAnthony ThorneandMichael Tovo, the latter of whom based the story on true events from his own life. Thorne is producing withSteve Snyderof Pacific Shore Films, which is also financing the indie movie.Les Cohenwill serve as executive producer on the project, which is slated to start production in October in Philadelphia.
LaBeouf will play Mike Delaney, sent to prison for killing an innocent man after a violent robbery. Upon his release, he must re-enter his old life to help his alcoholic, guilt-ridden, fellow ex-con father (De Niro) attempt to save his younger brother from a life of crime and drugs. The film is billed as a father-son drama about forgiveness and redemption. To be honest, I’ve always seen a little of De Niro in LaBeouf, so I can definitely buy them as father and son.
De Niro will soon be seen as a TV personality inJokeroppositeJoaquin Phoenix, and he reunites with old friendsMartin Scorsese,Al Pacino,Joe PesciandHarvey KeitelonThe Irishman, which he also co-produced. The Netflix movie will appropriately make its world premiere at the New York Film Festival.
Stern previously wrote and directed theKevin CostnermovieSwing Vote, as well asJobs, which starredAshton Kutcheras Apple geniusSteve Jobs. He also created the Epix seriesGravesstarringNick Nolte. Stern is represented by MGMT, while CAA reps both De Niro and LaBeouf. Deadline broke the news.
