Aaron Paul to lead psychological thriller 'The Midnight Pool'

"Breaking Bad" actor Aaron Paul is set to headline the upcoming psychological thriller "The Midnight Pool", directed by "V for Vendetta" filmmaker James McTeigue. The project, backed by Traction, McTeigue, and Gramercy Park Media—who are also financing the film—is slated for its market debut at the Cannes Film Festival.

The script, written by Jonathan Easley—best known for "Red Right Hand"—made the 2022 Black List and follows the story of Johnny Black (played by Paul), a disillusioned journalist drawn into the secretive world of an elite society after a personal loss. What begins as a search for a career-defining story soon spirals into a journey through deception, manipulation, and blurred realities.

Sharing his excitement about the project, Paul said, "The moment 'The Midnight Pool' landed on my desk I knew I had to sit down with James. The world Jonathan created stayed with me long after I finished the script. After speaking with James about our shared love for filmmaking, it became clear we both wanted to commit to this project. I feel truly blessed to be part of this journey with such an extraordinary team."

Production will be led by Jason Tamasco and Zak Kristofek of Traction, alongside McTeigue, Ford Corbett, and Nathan Klingher of Gramercy Park Media. Executive producers include Mason Eways, Keith Danko, Joshua Harris, Mark Fasano, Brandon Burrows, Nat McCormick, and Danny Gusman. CAA Media Finance and UTA Independent Film Group are handling North American sales, while Stoic is managing international rights.

Filming for "The Midnight Pool" is expected to commence in Europe later this year.

Director McTeigue described the project as a pivotal moment in his career. "'The Midnight Pool' felt like the culmination of everything I've done—a gripping psychological drama layered with striking visuals and intense action. And when Aaron Paul agreed to play Johnny Black, I knew we had something special."

Speaking on behalf of Traction, Kristofek added, "We're beyond excited to bring this film to life with the incredible talents of James McTeigue and Aaron Paul. The combination of James's eye for tension and Aaron's powerful screen presence promises a film that will leave audiences captivated and reflective long after it ends."

Aaron Paul, a three-time Emmy winner for his role as Jesse Pinkman in "Breaking Bad", is also known for "Black Mirror", "Westworld", "El Camino", "Need for Speed", and the animated series "BoJack Horseman".

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James McTeigue rose to prominence with "V for Vendetta" and went on to direct "Ninja Assassin", "The Raven", and "Survivor". His recent work includes producing "Matrix Resurrections" and directing "Breaking In". He has also been involved in television, notably with "Sense8", "Messiah", and "Marco Polo".