Emily Mortimer, known for her roles in “Hugo” and “The Newsroom,” is set to make her directorial debut with “Dennis” at A24, a period romance that she both wrote and will lead creatively. The film, produced in partnership with Fruit Tree, draws attention for its promising cast and unique setting, highlighting how Emily Mortimer directs Dennis Moscow romance at A24 in a way that blends history and personal connection.
Alison Oliver and Yura Borisov Cast as Leads
In this upcoming project, Alison Oliver, recognized for “The Order” and “Task,” has been selected alongside Yura Borisov, a recent Oscar nominee for “Anora.” The pair will portray a British student and a Russian poet whose relationship unfolds in the wake of the Soviet Union’s collapse, with their love story set in 1990s Moscow. This casting reflects the film’s ambition to bring together rising talents from different backgrounds, aiming to create an authentic portrait of the era.
Moscow’s Tumultuous Decade as the Film’s Backdrop
The 1990s in Moscow were marked by rapid societal change, as the city and Russia at large opened up to the Western world after decades of Cold War isolation. During this period, new international alliances formed, and foreign visitors became more common, making the city an intriguing and complex setting for “Dennis.” These historical dynamics, now seen in contrast to recent conflicts involving Ukraine and Crimea, provide a rich context for the personal story at the heart of the film.
Yura Borisov’s Expanding Career After Oscar Recognition
Securing this leading role marks another significant step for Yura Borisov after his recent Oscar nomination. In addition to “Dennis,” Borisov was also chosen to perform alongside Andrew Garfield and Monica Barbaro in Luca Guadagnino’s forthcoming Amazon MGM film “Artificial,” which revolves around the turbulent events at OpenAI involving Sam Altman. These choices underscore Borisov’s growing reputation and his versatility as an actor making waves on the international stage.
A24 and Fruit Tree’s History of Collaborative Success
A24, responsible for financing and distributing “Dennis,” collaborates once again with Fruit Tree, leveraging a track record that features projects such as Jane Schoenbrun’s “I Saw The TV Glow,” the series “The Curse,” and an untitled musical comedy by Jesse Eisenberg starring Julianne Moore and Paul Giamatti. Their partnership highlights a consistent effort to support ambitious independent films that push creative boundaries.
Next Stages for ‘Dennis’ and Its Ensemble
As development continues, the production is now focused on assembling a supporting cast to match the talent of Alison Oliver and Yura Borisov. Anticipation surrounds who will join this period romance, as the film aims to capture the emotional and cultural intricacies of its time.
Looking Ahead: The Impact of a New Voice in Direction
Emily Mortimer’s transition from noted actress to director marks a significant moment in her career and offers a fresh perspective within the independent film landscape. The choice to set “Dennis” in a transformative period for Moscow serves both as a tribute to a pivotal historical era and as a narrative opportunity to explore cross-cultural relationships. With A24’s involvement and an acclaimed cast, the film holds promise for audiences interested in love stories shaped by history’s ebb and flow.
