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Glen Powell Negotiates to Star in Sam Esmail's Sci-Fi Project "Tesseract"

1/16/2026, 4:17:25 AM

Overview of the Project

Glen Powell is in negotiations to star in "Tesseract," an original science fiction feature written and directed by Sam Esmail, known for his work on the acclaimed series "Mr. Robot." The project has been secured by Amazon MGM Studios and United Artists, with Scott Stuber and Nick Nesbitt producing alongside Esmail and Chad Hamilton from Esmail Corp. While specific plot details remain undisclosed, it has been reported that the film will include two additional lead roles for female actors. The production is tentatively scheduled to begin in the summer, with filming locations planned for London and Hungary.

Glen Powell's Recent Work and Future Projects

Powell, who has gained significant recognition for his performances, is currently filming the second season of his Hulu sports comedy "Chad Powers." He recently starred in "The Running Man," a film adaptation directed by Edgar Wright. In addition to "Tesseract," Powell is set to appear in the A24 film "How to Make a Killing," where he plays a man seeking to reclaim his inheritance from a wealthy family. He is also involved in a project with J.J. Abrams, reportedly titled "The Great Beyond," which explores a fantastical narrative.

Sam Esmail's Directorial Background

Sam Esmail has transitioned from television to film, having recently directed "Leave the World Behind," a psychological thriller featuring Julia Roberts, Mahershala Ali, and Ethan Hawke. His previous works include the 2014 film "Comet" and the series "Homecoming." Esmail's ability to attract high-profile talent has been evident in his recent projects, which have garnered significant attention.

Official Statements & Responses

While neither Powell nor Esmail has made formal statements regarding "Tesseract," industry sources indicate that the project is a high priority for Amazon MGM Studios. The collaboration between Powell and Esmail is anticipated to generate considerable interest, given their respective successful careers.

Criticism & Opposition

As of now, there have been no notable criticisms or opposition regarding the project. However, the lack of detailed information about the film's plot has led to some speculation about its direction and potential audience reception.

What's Next

With negotiations ongoing, the next steps for "Tesseract" will involve finalizing the cast and production schedule. The film is expected to be a significant addition to both Powell's and Esmail's portfolios, potentially leading to further collaborations in the future.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “He’s a guy who pulls from so many different inspiration points, but his movies are unlike anything you’ve ever seen,” — Glen Powell on Edgar Wright
  • “ We’re sure Powell will be equally excited to work with Esmail, who boasts a number of impressive credits on his resume, too.” — Industry Source

In summary, "Tesseract" represents a promising collaboration between Glen Powell and Sam Esmail, with both figures poised to contribute their talents to this original sci-fi venture.