Oscar-winner Russell Crowe is starring in and co-writing a new MMA-themed film titled The Beast in Me, which features Daniel MacPherson and involves a partnership with ONE Championship, with production set to begin in late 2024 and include filming at a ONE event in Bangkok.
Oscar-winner Russell Crowe is crossing over to MMA for a new film that also includes a partnership with ONE Championship.
The Beast in Me stars Daniel MacPherson (A Wrinkle in Time, Foundation, Infini) as an out-of-work former MMA fighter. He suffers a personal tragedy involving his brother.
With the help of a veteran trainer played by Crowe, he sets out to avenge his brother. He comes out of retirement to compete for ONE.
Variety first reported the news.
The movie, directed by Tyler Atkins, is set to take the production overseas. Plans are to film at the upcoming ONE Friday Fights card on Jan. 24 from Bangkok, Thailand’s Impact Arena.
In addition to the MMA action being filmed during the event, the ONE Championship card also serves as a backdrop for other scenes. These take place throughout fight week.
ONE CEO Chatri Sityodtong is also expected to appear in the production. Select fighters from the roster will join him.
“I am thrilled to be partnering with the star-studded cast and production team behind The Beast In Me,” Sityodtong said in a statement. “I am confident ONE is the best platform to help tell their story of grit, perseverance, and determination.”
“We cannot wait to host their entire team in Bangkok at a ONE Friday Fights fight week in January.”
In addition to starring in the film, Crowe co-wrote the script for The Beast in Me alongside David Frigerio. They previously collaborated on the military action thriller Land of Bad.
Production on the film is expected to start in late 2024 and continue into 2025. This includes filming at the ONE Championship event from Thailand.