Academy-nominated director Darren Aronofsky is said to be in early talks to helm a new psychological drama called 'Breakthrough'.
Deadline reports that Dwayne Johnson will be seen breaking away from his action-hero role to play a more complex and demanding part. The actor is not the lead but will reportedly play a central supporting character that is a new trajectory consistent with his increased desire to perform more complicated, character-oriented parts.
The film follows an intriguing tale of Southern California in the early 2000s about a lonely young guy who is swept under the wing by a charismatic self-help guru . Under the surface of this inspiring figure, there is a master manipulator with a dark, hidden agenda.
Fans of Johnson will next catch him in 'The Smashing Machine,' opening in theatres on October 3. The film represents a significant departure from Johnson's career, signaling a move toward more dramatic, independent fare. His production firm, Seven Bucks Productions, co-founded with longtime collaborator Dany Garcia is also behind Breakthrough in association with Stacey Sher's Shiny Penny Productions.
While negotiations are on, Aronofsky is keeping pace. His next film, 'Caught Stealing', which features Austin Butler and Zoe Kravitz will open in theatres this August.
On the Personal front
Dwayne Johnson's career shift comes after he spoke publicly about a dramatic personal transformation. In an insightful interview with Cageside Seats, he discussed a health issue that involved digestive issues, heart valve problems and a clogged artery. These developments led the actor to re-evaluate not only his physical health but his life priorities.