Celebrated filmmaker Steven Soderbergh continues to explore bold new storytelling territory with his latest feature film, The Christophers, which premiered at this year’s Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) to enthusiastic buzz.
The film has now been officially acquired by Neon, the same studio behind several critically acclaimed indie hits. Following their recent collaboration on Presence, a haunting ghost story, Soderbergh and Neon are once again joining forces — this time for an art heist drama laced with family conflict, creative ambition, and dark humor.
A New Artistic Crime Drama from a Master Storyteller
Soderbergh, known for films like Ocean’s Eleven, Erin Brockovich, and Traffic, has long been admired for his versatility and willingness to experiment with genre. With The Christophers, he brings audiences a fascinating blend of drama, mystery, and satire that explores the fine line between inspiration and theft in the art world.
The screenplay is penned by Ed Solomon, best known for writing Men in Black and Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure. His sharp, witty writing style adds depth and irony to the film’s central premise — a story about the power of art, legacy, and family dysfunction.
Plot: A Creative Heist Filled with Emotion and Wit
At the center of The Christophers lies an irresistible premise. The story follows the estranged relatives of a world-renowned artist, portrayed by the legendary Ian McKellen, who has passed away leaving behind several unfinished masterpieces.
In a desperate bid to restore their family’s reputation and perhaps make some money, two of his relatives — played by Jessica Gunning and James Corden — come up with a daring plan. They enlist the help of a struggling artist, portrayed by Michaela Coel, to secretly steal, finish, and sell the incomplete works under the late artist’s name.
What begins as a simple scheme soon spirals into a complex web of deceit, creativity, and moral conflict, forcing each character to confront what art truly means — and who has the right to claim it.
The film reportedly balances tense emotional drama with moments of humor and absurdity, echoing Soderbergh’s signature storytelling style.
A Star-Studded Cast Bringing Complex Characters to Life
The ensemble cast of The Christophers adds considerable weight to the film’s emotional and dramatic layers.
- Michaela Coel, celebrated for her Emmy-winning work in I May Destroy You, plays the conflicted artist caught between integrity and temptation.
- Ian McKellen, the legendary actor behind Gandalf and Magneto, delivers what early festival reviews describe as a powerful and nuanced performance as the late master painter.
- Jessica Gunning, who recently rose to fame with Baby Reindeer, and James Corden, known from The Late Late Show and Into the Woods, portray the conniving relatives who drive much of the film’s dark humor and tension.
Critics at TIFF praised Soderbergh’s ability to bring out deeply human performances, especially in scenes between Coel and McKellen. One reviewer noted, “Soderbergh has proven himself a great director of actors, evident here in every moment McKellen or Coel are onscreen — and doubly so when they share scenes.”
Behind the Scenes: The Creative Team
The Christophers is produced and financed by Department M, with Mike Larocca, Michael Schaefer, Jim Parks, and Iain A. Canning serving as producers. Corey Bayes joins as the executive producer.
The film’s acquisition deal was negotiated by CAA Media Finance on behalf of the filmmakers, ensuring the movie finds a strong home under Neon’s distribution strategy.
Neon also recently picked up another major TIFF title — Baz Luhrmann’s “EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert”, signaling the company’s growing appetite for prestige-driven, art-forward films.
Why Neon Is the Perfect Fit
Over the past few years, Neon has built a reputation as a studio that embraces unconventional storytelling. Known for distributing acclaimed films like Parasite, Titane, and Anatomy of a Fall, Neon specializes in movies that challenge audiences while offering a deeply cinematic experience.
Their partnership with Soderbergh feels like a natural match — both are committed to taking creative risks and highlighting stories that defy mainstream formulas.
The film is set for a theatrical release in the United States in 2026, and Neon will also handle international sales rights, ensuring The Christophers reaches a global audience of cinephiles.
A Film About Legacy, Art, and Human Imperfection
At its core, The Christophers isn’t just about an art heist — it’s a reflection on legacy, identity, and the meaning of creativity itself. Through its complex characters and emotional undertones, the film explores how people connect with art, and how that connection can blur the line between admiration and exploitation.
Soderbergh, who has built his career on defying cinematic norms, seems to be returning to a deeply personal and philosophical space with this film. His decision to pair veteran icons with rising stars like Coel showcases his ongoing fascination with human relationships, morality, and ambition.
Conclusion
The Christophers is shaping up to be one of Steven Soderbergh’s most anticipated projects, combining his sharp directorial instincts with a fascinating cast and a story that promises depth, tension, and heart.
As the world awaits its 2026 theatrical release, anticipation continues to grow — not only for the film’s unique blend of drama and humor but also for how it might redefine the concept of artistic legacy in modern cinema.
With Michaela Coel, Ian McKellen, Jessica Gunning, and James Corden delivering standout performances, and Soderbergh steering the creative vision, The Christophers could easily become a future awards contender and a new favorite among art and film enthusiasts alike.