It looks like Amazon MGM is ready to bankroll Will Smith‘s comeback trail. Deadline reports that the ex-A-list actor is set to star in “Supermax,” an action-thriller from the studio, with David Gordon Green directing; Miramax first announced the project last Fall. The project marks the second non-franchise project starring Smith in development since his infamous Oscars 2022 fiasco. The other is “Fast & Loose,” a crime thriller over at Netflix from “King Ivory” director John Swab.
“Supermax” will star Smith as one of two FBI agents investigating a murder that has taken place in the most secure prison in the world; Deadline notes that the other agent will be a female lead. Amazon MGM eyes the project as a mid-budget, streaming-only affair: something in the $70 million range.
David Weil and David J. Rosen co-pen the script for “Supermax,” with Andrew Rona and Alex Heineman producing, with Smith and Adam Fishbach also producing via Smith’s Westbrook banner. Executive producers include Weil and Rosen, Miramax CEO Jonathan Glickman, President of Film Alexandra Loewy, COO Thorn Zadra, and SVP Spencer Ela. Natalie Laine is also on board as an associate producer.
Also of note: Amazon MGM swooped in on the rights for “Supermax” before it had a chance to hit the Cannes market. Is that because the studio sees the project as a hot commodity? Maybe, maybe not. Given the box-office success of “Bad Boys: Ride Or Die,” Smith’s first film in theaters after he slapped Chris Rock, one would think he remains a bankable star who puts butts in seats. And yet, “Supemax” will be a streaming release. That makes this move feel like a safe gamble for Amazon MGM and a measured move regarding Smith’s remaining stardom.
“Supermax” will be Gordon Green’s first film since 2024’s “Nutcrackers.” Other recent projects for the director include the Prime Video series “Scarpetta,” as well as “The Exorcist: Believer” and his “Halloween” trilogy. “Supermax” will be the biggest budget he’s ever had on a movie.
Stay tuned for more details on “Supermax,” and whether it reaches audiences before “Fast & Loose”; don’t expect another upcoming Smith project, “I Am Legend 2,” for a while yet.
