Full Breakdown
A24's Upcoming Film "Deep Cuts" Stars Cailee Spaeny and Drew Starkey
12/4/2025, 9:00:07 AM
Overview of the Film
A24 is set to adapt Holly Brickley's novel *Deep Cuts*, with rising stars Cailee Spaeny and Drew Starkey leading the cast. The film, directed and written by Sean Durkin, is a love story set in the 2000s that explores the lives of two music-obsessed twentysomethings as they navigate ambition, belonging, and adulthood during a transformative decade. Production is scheduled to begin in February 2026.
Background on Casting Changes
Initially, *Deep Cuts* was slated to feature Saoirse Ronan and Austin Butler in the lead roles. However, due to scheduling conflicts, both actors had to withdraw from the project. A24 quickly pivoted to cast Spaeny and Starkey, both of whom have established themselves as prominent figures in the industry.
Key Figures in the Production
- Cailee Spaeny: Known for her roles in *Civil War* and *Priscilla*, Spaeny has become a notable talent for A24, marking her fourth leading role with the studio. She has received critical acclaim, including a Golden Globe nomination and a Best Actress award at the Venice Film Festival.
- Drew Starkey: Starkey gained recognition for his performance in the A24 film *Queer*. He is also set to appear in the upcoming Apple series *Lucky* alongside Anya Taylor-Joy.
- Sean Durkin: The director and writer of *Deep Cuts*, Durkin has a history of successful collaborations with A24.
- Blake Mills: A Grammy-winning artist, Mills will create original music for the film.
Production Team
The film will be produced by Eli Bush, Ronald Bronstein, and Josh Safdie, along with Durkin and A24. Brickley will serve as an executive producer, ensuring the adaptation remains true to the source material.
Official Statements & Responses
A24 has not publicly commented on the casting changes or the film's production timeline. However, the studio's decision to cast Spaeny and Starkey reflects their commitment to nurturing emerging talent in the film industry.
Criticism & Opposition
While there has been no significant public dissent regarding the casting of Spaeny and Starkey, some industry observers have noted the challenges of adapting beloved novels into films, particularly when initial casting choices fall through.
What's Next for the Stars
Following *Deep Cuts*, Spaeny will reunite with A24 in the new season of the Emmy-winning series *Beef* on Netflix, while Starkey is set to star in *King Snake* alongside Margaret Qualley and Michael Shannon.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Set in the 2000s, Deep Cuts is a love story about two music-obsessed twentysomethings navigating the messy realities of ambition, belonging and adulthood over the course of an era-defining decade.” — Sean Durkin, Director
- “Spaeny has started to become the A24 darling as this would be her fourth leading role in an A24 production, following her acclaimed performances in Civil War and Priscilla — for which she received a Golden Globe nomination and won the Best Actress award at the Venice Film Festival.” — Industry Analyst
A24's *Deep Cuts* promises to be a significant addition to the studio's portfolio, showcasing the talents of its rising stars while exploring themes relevant to a generation.
