LOS ANGELES – Vertical Entertainment has secured U.S. distribution rights to The Astronaut film, Jess Varley’s sci-fi thriller that had its world premiere at the 2025 South by Southwest Film Festival.
The movie stars Kate Mara as astronaut Sam Walker and Laurence Fishburne as General William Harris, with Gabriel Luna, Ivana Milicevic, and Macy Gray in supporting roles. Produced by Brad Fuller — known for A Quiet Place and The Purge franchises — the film is slated for release later this fall.
The plot follows Walker, who is found alive in a damaged capsule drifting in the Atlantic after her first space mission. Placed under strict NASA surveillance, she soon experiences strange events, raising fears that something extraterrestrial has followed her back to Earth.
Creative Team Behind The Astronaut
The Astronaut film marks Varley’s solo directorial debut, building on her earlier work in the 2021 anthology Phobias. The feature was co-produced by Cameron Fuller, Eric B. Fleischman, and Chris Abernathy, with executive production by Laurence Fishburne, Jan McAdoo, and Stephen Braun. The project was also supported by Ireland’s film tax incentive program.
Cinematographer Dave Garbett (Evil Dead Rise), production designer Alan Gilmore (Cobweb), and editors Joel Griffen and Terel Gibson bring high technical polish to the film, complemented by a score from Jacques Brautbar.
Anticipation Builds Ahead of Release
Producer Brad Fuller praised Varley’s direction, describing the film as “a unique roller coaster ride blending nostalgia, scares, and heart.” Vertical partner Peter Jarowey added that the gripping story, combined with standout performances from Mara and Fishburne, will keep audiences “on the edge of their seats until the final frame.”
With its blend of suspense, psychological tension, and extraterrestrial mystery, The Astronaut film is poised to capture sci-fi fans and general audiences alike. Its U.S. release later this year is expected to spark strong interest following the buzz from SXSW.
