Steven Soderbergh’s latest project, The Christophers, is attracting attention with the release of its first official image, showcasing Ian McKellen and Michaela Coel in their respective roles. The film, currently in post-production, is set in London and explores a darkly comedic story involving art fraud and complicated family dynamics.
Main Cast Introductions and Characters in The Christophers
The newly revealed photograph presents Ian McKellen portraying Julian Sklar, an aging figure embodying a worn, legendary presence with attire that includes a rainbow-striped sweater as he leans against a weathered doorframe. Michaela Coel appears as Lori Butler, observing McKellen’s character while holding a suitcase, signaling tension or anticipation. Alongside them, James Corden joins the cast in a notable role, marking his return to major film projects since his recent stage performance at London’s Old Vic. Corden’s specific role in the narrative remains undisclosed.
McKellen’s distinguished career includes two Oscar nominations and numerous BAFTA nods, with recent performances in theatrical productions like Hamlet and films such as The Good Liar affirming his ongoing presence in acting. Coel has earned acclaim for her Emmy- and BAFTA-winning work on I May Destroy You and is developing new projects, including the HBO/BBC drama First Day on Earth and David Lowery’s forthcoming film Mother Mary, starring Anne Hathaway.
Plot Overview and Creative Team Behind the Film
The Christophers tells the story of estranged siblings who devise a morally ambiguous scheme to hire a forger to complete their deceased father’s unfinished artwork, intending to pass it off as newly discovered originals. This premise sets the stage for a dark comedy rich with complex characters, intricate plotting, and reflections on capitalism. The film reunites Soderbergh with longtime collaborator Ed Solomon, who co-wrote this screenplay and has partnered with Soderbergh on projects such as the thriller Full Circle and the interactive series Mosaic.
Production for The Christophers began in London in February, backed by Department M, a financing company managed by Michael Schaefer and Mike Larocca, both of whom serve as executive producers. Schaefer previously worked with Soderbergh on the film Unsane during his tenure as President of New Regency, highlighting a continued professional relationship.
Anticipated Impact and Future Prospects for The Christophers
The Christophers marks another notable entry in Steven Soderbergh’s filmography that blends genre elements with thoughtful commentary. With a cast featuring veteran actors like Ian McKellen and rising talents such as Michaela Coel, the film is expected to offer a compelling exploration of artistic legacy and moral complexity. As post-production proceeds, industry observers await further updates, emphasizing the film’s potential to resonate with audiences seeking sophisticated dark comedies that challenge ethical boundaries within the art world and family relationships.
“It’s art fraud with a Soderbergh twist — which means expect stylish plotting, morally compromised characters, and at least one monologue about capitalism.”
—Unnamed Source
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What movie did Steven Soderbergh make on iPhone?
A. Unsane (2018) is Steven Soderbergh’s first movie filmed on an iPhone. This psychological horror movie was captured using an iPhone 7 Plus and the Filmic Pro app. The story is about a woman with a stalking experience in her past. She is admitted to a mental health center against her will.
Q. How many movies has Steven Soderbergh made?
A. He has made 33 movies and created eight TV shows.
