Timothée Chalamet is set to collaborate once again with director James Mangold on a new film titled High Side. This project marks a reunion for the pair, who previously worked together on the acclaimed film A Complete Unknown. The upcoming feature is based on an unpublished short story by author Jaime Oliveira and is being produced by Chernin Entertainment. Paramount Pictures secured the film rights following a competitive bidding process.
The storyline of High Side centers on a former MotoGP racer named Billy, who is drawn back into a life of crime after a career-ending accident. The narrative unfolds as Billy is approached by his estranged brother Cole, who is already under FBI scrutiny. Together, they plan a series of daring bank robberies, utilizing Billy’s motocross skills. The film promises high-speed action and emotional depth, exploring themes of family and redemption against a backdrop of criminal undertakings.
The synopsis details Billy’s struggle with his past, stating, “Haunted by a career-ending crash and a family legacy of abandonment, Billy is recruited by Cole to use his talents for bank heists.” The stakes escalate when an FBI agent named Lennox, who has a complicated history with Cole, begins to close in on the crew as they prepare for their biggest score during a major motorcycle parade.
Dana Goldberg and Josh Greenstein, co-chairs of Paramount Pictures, expressed their enthusiasm for the project, stating, “What Jaime has created reflects the kind of bold, original storytelling we’re committed to championing at Paramount.” They added that the collaboration with visionary artists like Mangold and Chalamet aligns with their focus on innovative filmmaking.
In a recent statement, Mangold emphasized the commitment of Paramount executives to original storytelling, noting that this shared vision made it easy for the team to pursue High Side. He described Chalamet as a “trusted collaborator” and a “generational artist,” expressing eagerness to work together again.
Currently, Chalamet is busy filming the third installment of the Dune franchise and leading another project titled Marty Supreme, directed by Josh Safdie. Mangold’s previous work on A Complete Unknown earned him eight Oscar nominations, showcasing his skill in narrative filmmaking. He is also known for his action direction in films such as Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny and Copland.
Discussing his approach to directing, Mangold shared insights with IndieWire, highlighting the importance of adaptability in filmmaking. He remarked, “The one thing I can say consistently is that they may have a plan, but what we all do is if something better comes up, we jump on it and make it look like we thought of it.” He also encourages open communication with his cast, fostering an environment where actors feel free to challenge the script.
As production for High Side moves forward, the film is poised to deliver a thrilling blend of high-octane action and dramatic storytelling, further cementing the partnership between Chalamet and Mangold as one to watch in the coming years.
