Jolie and Liman reunite for The Initiative

Angelina Jolie reteams with Doug Liman for a spy thriller called The Initiative, with Universal in talks to finance and produce.

Jolie and Liman reunite for The Initiative

Angelina Jolie will star in a new spy thriller called The Initiative, reuniting with director Doug Liman who previously collaborated on Mr. and Mrs. Smith. Universal is in talks to land the project with F. Scott Frazier writing the screenplay and Jeff Kirschenbaum producing for Roth/Kirschenbaum Films. Plot details are being kept under wraps as the studio weighs the budget, schedule and release plan.

The project would bring Jolie back to the slick action thrillers that helped define her box office pull, including Salt and Wanted. RK Films has a long standing relationship with Jolie, and Liman remains closely tied to Universal after a string of projects from The Bourne Identity to Roadhouse on the way. If the deal moves forward, Jay Polidoro and Tony Ducret would oversee development for the studio.

This pairing signals a focus on star driven action cinema as studios seek reliable tentpoles. Jolie maintains broad appeal with audiences who crave stylish set pieces and clear pacing. The move also reinforces Liman as a director who can blend smart character moments with fast moving sequences.

However the project faces risks like budget swings and timing in a crowded release slate. If well executed, The Initiative could cement Jolie as a durable action star beyond the drama heavy roles she has pursued recently.

Highlights

As studios chase big bets, Jolie's next move remains a telling signal.