Jonathan Bailey, Natalie Portman set to team up for upcoming psychological thriller 'Pumping Black'
Los Angeles, May 9
Hollywood star Jonathan Bailey has been brought on board for a new film opposite Oscar-winning actor Natalie Portman.
According to Variety, Jonathan Bailey and Natalie Portman will team up for an upcoming psychological thriller, 'Pumping Black', set in the competitive and cutthroat world of professional cycling.
The film is set to be directed by Mimi Cave, best known for 2022's horror film 'Fresh', with a screenplay from Haley Hope Bartels.
'Pumping Black' follows the story of cyclist Taylor Mace, who finds himself ageing out of the sport at the age of 35. He is then taken under the wing of Andrea Lathe, a doctor driven by her own thirst for victory and power.
As the race to the Tour de France progresses, Taylor will need to take increasingly dark measures to protect his secret.
The film has been described as an "adrenaline-fuelled, dangerous thriller", likened to both 'Whiplash' and 'Black Swan'.
'Pumping Black' is produced by Stacey Sher at Shiny Penny, Save, Anton's Sebastien Raybaud, and Natalie Portman and Sophie Mas.
"Haley's script immediately pulled us into a visceral, psychological world that feels both thrilling and completely original. I'm excited to partner with Natalie and MountainA on this bold project, and to work with Jonathan, whose talent makes him a perfect fit for the role. I can't wait to collaborate with Anton and bring Mimi Cave's incredible vision to life," Sher said, as quoted by Variety.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Whiplash and Black Swan vibes? That's a high bar! Cycling is a ruthless sport, and mixing in a doctor with a power-hungry streak sounds like a recipe for intense drama. Jonathan Bailey has been impressive lately—can't wait to see him in this! 🇮🇳
Honestly, the plot sounds a bit predictable—aging athlete, desperate measures, secret to protect. We've seen this before. But with Portman and Bailey, it might still be worth a watch. Mimi Cave's 'Fresh' was decent, so let's see. 👀
Finally a Hollywood film that doesn't center on US politics! 😂 As someone who follows cycling casually, this premise is chilling. The pressure to win at all costs—very relatable in today's competitive world. Hope they explore the psychological toll authentically.
'Pumping Black' sounds like a weird title—gives me pumping iron vibes but with a dark twist. Maybe it's a metaphor for the blood, sweat, and tears of cycling. Portman choosing this project says something. Could be a sleeper hit!
As a sports fan, I'm intrigued. Professional cycling is brutal—doping scandals, intense rivalries, and the mental toll. This could be a raw, gripping story. But I wish Hollywood would cast more diverse leads. Still, Jonathan Bailey is talented. Let's hope the script does justice!
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