Following the buzz around Challengers, Josh O’Connor is now joining Oscar-winner Joel Coen for his first film together, called Jack of Spades. The film which will start shooting this summer in Scotland, looks set to break from the Coen brothers’ usual films and focus on drama involving mystery, ambition and personal rivalries. Although the story is being kept hidden, those familiar with the project say this may be the most emotionally charged and wordy project for the Coens — and O’Connor, with his recent awards, is in line to take on an intense leading role.
Thanks to a simple story, one filming location and Joel Coen working alone, Jack of Spades might become another brave addition to modern auteur cinema. Fans of these genres should remember this film.
What Is ‘Jack of Spades’ About?
Director Joel Coen, who won an Oscar, is taking on new concepts in Jack of Spades which mixes mystery, deep psychology and smart dialogue. Josh O’Connor anchors the story as he gives a powerful performance in a story that unfolds in one place. Official information about the plot is being kept secret, though rumors suggest the film will look into ambition, who we are and the bad parts of our minds.
This isn’t the same kind of thriller you might expect. According to the developer, Jack of Spades will tell its story through silence and leave a lot unsaid. Due to Coen’s plain style and O’Connor’s growing popularity, this film might become one of the best character studies we’ve seen in a while.
Joel Coen’s Bold New Vision & Josh O’Connor’s Most Daring Role Yet
Joel Coen, who won an Oscar, is once again directing a film on his own and Jack of Spades looks like it will have his trademark vivid storytelling and suspenseful drama. Known for telling his stories with suspense and little detail, the Coen brothers are likely to take things a step further in their new project, creating a tight, close-up drama that takes place in just one place.
At the center of the film is Josh O’Connor, taking on a challenging part that could be very significant for him. Having made a strong impression with his work in The Crown and Challengers, O’Connor is known for being emotional and Jack of Spades should further display his range. Even though the specifics of the plot are being kept secret, those within the film industry say his character could be hard to trust and will be crucial for explaining the movie’s mysteries.
Because Coen directs it so closely and O’Connor is on the rise, this isn’t just a typical art-house thriller. It’s an example of how psychological dramas might be told differently — smart, subtle and with plenty of tension.
Filming Begins in Scotland: Here’s What We Know About ‘Jack of Spades’ Production
Filming for Josh O’Connor and Joel Coen’s thriller will begin this summer in Scotland and choosing Scotland only adds to the excitement. Because the landscapes are serene and European in style, the movie’s mood is projected to be both mysterious and close.
Shooting begins in mid-2025 and the film is said to take place in just one location. Because much of the action stays in one location, the narrative is pushed mainly by events, dialogue and mental tension.
On this project, Joel Coen is directing by himself and he’s keeping up his style, with narrow sets, richly detailed characters and scenes that communicate more than words.
The details of the rest of the cast and the movie’s launch date are not confirmed, though insiders suggest it’s ready for filming — and should satisfy fans of thrillers.
