The octagon is calling Russell Crowe in the new MMA drama, Beast. The Oscar-winning actor is co-writing and starring in the film directed by Tyler Atkins, playing the grizzled coach of a former MMA champion dragged back to the cage after his brother is put in danger.
Crowe co-wrote the Beast screenplay with David Frigerio, and stars alongside Strike Back actor Daniel MacPherson, Luke Hemsworth, Bren Foster, Amy Shark, Mojean Aria, and Kelly Gale. It’s a story of pride, redemption, and tough men with bruised egos. Crowe previously worked with McPherson and Hemsworth on his 2022 gambling drama, Poker Face.
Here’s the official synopsis: After years away from the cage, a once-feared MMA champion is pulled back in for the fight of his life when his younger brother is put in danger. Reuniting with the trainer who once made him a legend, he commits to one final showdown against the reigning title-holder — a brutal fighter determined to dismantle the ex-champ’s legacy in front of the world. Pushed to his breaking point, the contender’s stakes are simple: win, or lose everything he’s built. Starring Daniel MacPherson, Luke Hemsworth, and Oscar winner Russell Crowe (Actor in a Leading Role, Gladiator, 2000).
The film was developed in conjunction with combat sports promotion ONE Championship, with key sequences shot in Bangkok during an event in January 2025.
Lionsgate will release Beast in theaters on April 10th.
