Netflix is stepping in to give new life to an upcoming thriller led by Bridgerton star Phoebe Dynevor, following Sony Pictures’ decision to pull the film from its theatrical release calendar.
Directed by Tommy Wirkola, the still-untitled feature was previously developed under the name Shiver and had originally been positioned as a summer blockbuster. Sony had first targeted an August 2025 cinema debut, later pushing the release to July 2026 before ultimately removing the film from theaters altogether.
Now, Netflix has officially picked up the project, with plans to premiere it on the streaming platform later this year.
A Star-Driven Thriller Heads to Streaming
Alongside Dynevor, the cast includes rising star Whitney Peak and Academy Award nominee Djimon Hounsou. The film is produced by Adam McKay and Kevin Messick, adding further weight to the project’s creative lineup.
While the storyline remains tightly under wraps, earlier industry chatter has hinted at a survival-driven narrative involving sharks — a detail that has already fueled online speculation and curiosity among fans.
Part of Sony and Netflix’s Expanding Partnership
The move is another example of Sony’s ongoing first-look deal with Netflix for direct-to-streaming projects. The relationship between the two studios continues to grow, especially following their recently renewed global Pay-1 agreement, which ensures Sony’s theatrical releases eventually land on Netflix after their cinema and home entertainment runs.
Past collaborations between the companies have delivered major streaming hits, including The Mitchells vs. the Machines, which is currently developing a sequel. Recent Sony-backed Netflix releases such as People We Meet on Vacation and the animated phenomenon K-Pop Demon Hunters further highlight the success of the partnership.
Tommy Wirkola’s Busy Slate Continues
Wirkola, known for genre-heavy films like Dead Snow, Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters, and What Happened to Monday, remains a sought-after director in both streaming and theatrical spaces. He is also set to return to cinemas later this year with Violent Night 2, reuniting with David Harbour for the holiday-themed action sequel arriving December 4.
Phoebe Dynevor’s Momentum Keeps Building
For Dynevor, the Netflix release marks another high-profile step following her breakout success in Bridgerton and acclaimed film performances in Fair Play and Anniversary. With this latest thriller shifting to a global streaming audience, the actress is poised to reach an even wider fanbase.
As Netflix continues to absorb high-concept projects once destined for theaters, this shark-infused mystery could become one of the platform’s most talked-about releases later this year.