TriStar Pictures Acquires Film Rights for Ben Mezrich's The Last Orbit

TriStar Pictures has secured the film rights to *The Last Orbit*, a forthcoming speculative fiction novel by bestselling author Ben Mezrich, known for his works such as *The Accidental Billionaires*, which inspired the Oscar-winning film *The Social Network*. The novel, set for publication in the first quarter of 2027, revolves around the asteroid 2024 YR4, which has a statistically significant chance of impacting Earth or the moon in 2032. The narrative imagines a realistic international response to this potential threat, blending real scientific principles with fictional storytelling.

Gizmodo

Matt Shakman, recognized for his work on *The Fantastic Four: First Steps* and the Emmy-nominated series *WandaVision*, will direct the film adaptation. The screenplay will be adapted by Josh Friedman, who has previously contributed to major projects such as *War of the Worlds* and *Avatar: The Way of Water*. The film is being produced by FlynnPictureCo, the production company behind successful titles like *Red Notice* and the upcoming live-action adaptation of *Moana*.

Fantastic Four Director Matt Shakman Lands New Sci-Fi From The Social Network Author

The asteroid 2024 YR4 is currently monitored due to its 4% chance of colliding with Earth in 2032. This real-world concern serves as the backdrop for Mezrich's novel, which aims to explore the implications of such a scenario. The book's speculative nature allows it to delve into the possible actions humanity might take in response to an impending asteroid threat, drawing comparisons to films like *Armageddon* but grounded in scientific realism.

Gizmodo

While specific release dates for the film adaptation have not been announced, the acquisition of the rights and the involvement of notable figures in the project have generated anticipation. Shakman’s transition from the Marvel Cinematic Universe to a more realistic sci-fi narrative has been noted, although there are ongoing discussions about his potential return to Marvel for future projects.

Fantastic Four Director Matt Shakman Lands New Sci-Fi From The Social Network Author

As the project is still in its early stages, there has been limited public critique. However, some may question the feasibility of adapting a speculative fiction narrative based on a real asteroid threat, considering the complexities of translating scientific concepts into mainstream cinema.

Gizmodo

With the novel's release scheduled for early 2027, the film adaptation is expected to follow, although no specific timeline has been provided. The creative team will likely focus on developing a screenplay that balances the scientific aspects with engaging storytelling to attract a broad audience.

Deadline Hollywood

• “The book is science real and imagines what a realistic international response would be as everyone has to come together in order to save the planet.” — Ben Mezrich, Author

Deadline Hollywood

• “Shakman is setting his sights on more realistic sci-fi next, but does that mean he's done with the Marvel Cinematic Universe?” — Industry Commentary

Fantastic Four Director Matt Shakman Lands New Sci-Fi From The Social Network Author

This project marks an intriguing intersection of science fiction and real-world issues, positioning *The Last Orbit* as a significant upcoming title in both literature and film.

Gizmodo