Dylan Sprouse, Barbie Ferreira, and Tanner Buchanan have joined forces for a new psychological thriller titled 'The Sleeping Dogs of Southampton.' The film is set against the backdrop of the Hamptons and explores a dangerous environment defined by sex, money, and obsession. Principal photography for the project has recently concluded, marking the end of the production phase before the film enters the distribution market.
The movie is currently being presented at the American Film Market, where Highland Film Group is launching its worldwide sales campaign. David Lipper, who directed 'Neglected,' helms the film, while the screenplay was penned by Peter James Cooper. The production team includes Robert A. Daly Jr. of Latigo Films, Kipp Tribble, and Rick Moore as producers, with a roster of executive producers that includes Kevin Weisberg, Ryan Adams, and others.
The ensemble cast also features Jack Kilmer, known for 'The Nice Guys,' Rainey Qualley from 'Shut In,' Bianca Ghezzi of 'The Idol,' and Ethan Cutkowsky from 'Shameless.' These actors join the three leads to populate the story with a mix of rising stars and established faces, creating a dynamic group of characters for the narrative.
The plot centers on Dorsey Grace, a ruthless Wall Street rainmaker played by Sprouse. Dorsey is characterized by his ability to close deals and manipulate others mentally. During a social gathering involving scotch and business associates, he boasts about a past romantic encounter. This statement prompts Henry Barrett, a rising and hyper-competitive banker portrayed by Buchanan, to suspect that the unnamed woman is his wife, Lindsay, played by Ferreira.
As the story unfolds over a seductive summer, the characters move through the circles of Manhattan's moneyed elite. The setting includes sprawling estates and lavish pool parties in the Hamptons, where suspicion gradually evolves into deep obsession. Henry finds himself trapped in a lethal game of corporate warfare and psychological chess. His goal becomes the destruction of Dorsey, a man who always appears to be one move ahead of his opponents.
Arianne Fraser, the CEO of Highland Film Group, described the project as an irresistibly sexy thriller. She noted that the film takes audiences into a glamorous world where money, power, and desire combine to create a dangerous mix. The studio is eager to showcase this unique blend of genre elements to international buyers.
Delphine Perrier, the company's COO, emphasized the strategic positioning of the film. She stated that the combination of Sprouse, Ferreira, and Buchanan leading an exciting ensemble cast makes the movie perfectly positioned to attract a global Gen-Z audience. Perrier expressed enthusiasm for the project, calling it a fun endeavor and looking forward to introducing it to buyers at the market.
The cast members are represented by various talent agencies. Dylan Sprouse is represented by Nate Steadman at Gersh Agency and managed by Bonnie Liedtke at Authentic Management. Barbie Ferreira is represented by Chris Kiely at Authentic and Jessie Blackhall at Untitled; Entertainment. Tanner Buchanan is represented by Jasmine Mausner at Gersh Agency and managed by Julien Tacchini at Linden Management. Jack Kilmer is also represented by Bonnie Liedtke at Authentic Management.
The film's entry into the market represents a significant moment for the cast, as it brings together a diverse range of talent known for recent popular television and film projects. The psychological thriller genre, combined with the high-stakes setting of the financial world, offers a compelling premise for audiences seeking drama and suspense.
