'Balestra': Tessa Thompson To Star In Nicole Dorsey's Fencing Psychological Thriller

What if I told you that Tessa Thompson was starring in a new film about competitive fencing? Interested? Okay, that might not sound all that exciting. But what if that fencing film is a psychological thriller about a woman that using advanced lucid dreaming technology to become a better fencer and perhaps cheat on her husband? Yeah, that might sell some tickets.

According to Deadline, Thompson is signed on to star in the new film, “Balestra.” The film, as described above, tells the story of a professional fencer that takes part in an experiment using lucid dreaming to become better at her sport. And along the way, she may actually start a torrid love affair with her coach, played by Marwan Kenzari (“Aladdin”). The film is set to be directed by Nicole Dorsey.

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“Like the sport that ‘Balestra’ explores, the conception of this piece is sharp and riveting – it is a fascinating look at the price of winning, and what trouble dreams can become when our sense of self-worth, reality and identity are tethered too tightly to them,” said Thompson. “To embark on this journey, both in front of the lens and behind it, with Nicole Dorsey and this phenomenal team is a dream to me – a most beautiful one.”

Thompson is probably best known for her roles in films such as the “Creed” franchise, “Thor: Ragnarok,” “Sorry to Bother You,” and “Annihilation.” She’s also one of the stars in HBO’s hit sci-fi series “Westworld.” Upcoming, she has a couple of features on her slate, with the films “Sylvie’s Love” and “Passing” expected to be released soon.

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As mentioned, the film comes from director Nicole Dorsey. She recently made her feature-length directorial debut in “Black Conflux,” which premiered at last year’s Toronto International Film Festival. Obviously, with Tessa Thompson signed on, “Balestra” is set to be the film that could make for Dorsey’s big breakout feature.

There’s no expected release date for “Balestra,” as the film is now taking part in the Cannes Virtual Market and is seeking a studio.