In an exciting new collaboration, Oscar-nominated actors Ethan Hawke and Russell Crowe are set to star in the historical drama The Weight, directed by Padraic McKinley. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the film is positioned in the tumultuous backdrop of 1930s Oregon, showcasing themes of betrayal and survival. While the exact release date has not been announced, anticipation is building for this gripping tale.
In The Weight, Ethan Hawke takes on the role of Samuel Murphy, a man grappling with his wife’s tragic death. After finding himself imprisoned in a labor camp managed by the ruthless overseer Clancy, portrayed by Crowe, Murphy is driven by one singular hope: to escape and reclaim custody of his young daughter, Penny. As he plans his escape, he becomes entwined in Clancy’s dangerous gold smuggling operation, facing formidable challenges from the unforgiving wilderness and potential treachery from his fellow inmates.
Director Padraic McKinley, known for his previous work on American Gods and Kingdom, is making his feature film directorial debut with The Weight. McKinley’s transition from editing and producing to directing brings a fresh perspective to the project. He previously collaborated with Crowe on The Exorcism, establishing a strong professional rapport that is expected to enhance their co-starring dynamic.
As he prepares for The Weight, Ethan Hawke has recently finished filming the horror sequel The Black Phone 2. The original film, which was released in 2021, achieved impressive box office success, grossing $161.4 million globally and receiving critical acclaim with an 81% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The sequel is scheduled for a theatrical release on October 17, 2025, further solidifying Hawke’s standing in both the horror and drama genres.
While Russell Crowe’s recent film, Kraven The Hunter, encountered some struggles at the box office, the actor remains busy with upcoming projects, including Nuremberg, a World War II film based on Jack El-Hai’s book The Nazi and the Psychiatrist. In this film, Crowe portrays the infamous Nazi military leader Hermann Göring, alongside a cast that includes Rami Malek and Michael Shannon.
The collaboration between Ethan Hawke and Russell Crowe in The Weight promises to deliver intense performances and a compelling story, suggesting that viewers should keep an eye out for this upcoming film as it shapes the landscape of historical dramas in cinema.
