After a sudden detour from the big screen, filmmaker Tommy Wirkola’s next feature is officially heading to Netflix. The untitled thriller — once set up at Sony Pictures — will now debut on the streaming platform later this year, marking another high-profile title shifting from theatrical to digital-first release.
From Sony Theatres to Netflix Screens
The film was originally developed at Sony Pictures and had a theatrical date locked for August 1, 2025 under its former title Shiver. That plan later changed, with Sony pushing the release to July 3, 2026, before ultimately pulling it from its theatrical slate altogether.
Now, Netflix has stepped in, planning to launch the film globally later this year as part of its growing slate of high-concept thrillers.
A Cast That Signals Scale
The project brings together an impressive ensemble, led by Phoebe Dynevor, Whitney Peak, and Djimon Hounsou. While plot details remain tightly guarded, earlier reports suggest the story involves sharks, hinting at a survival-driven thriller rather than a traditional creature feature.
Behind the scenes, the film is backed by heavyweight producers Adam McKay and Kevin Messick, adding further credibility to Netflix’s decision to fast-track the project.
Part of Netflix–Sony’s Bigger Deal
The move is also tied to Netflix and Sony’s broader collaboration. The thriller heads to Netflix under the companies’ first-look deal for direct-to-streaming projects, a partnership that continues to reshape how Sony titles reach audiences.
Just this week, Sony reaffirmed its relationship with Netflix through a global Pay-1 licensing agreement, ensuring Sony’s theatrical releases eventually stream worldwide on Netflix after their cinema and home media runs.
Previous successes under this partnership include The Mitchells vs. the Machines, which is now getting a sequel, along with recent titles like People We Meet on Vacation and K-Pop Demon Hunters, which has become Netflix’s most-watched film ever.
Wirkola’s Busy Slate Continues
Known for blending genre chaos with sharp spectacle, Wirkola has previously directed cult favorites like Dead Snow, Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters, and What Happened to Monday.
He’s also gearing up for a theatrical return later this year with Violent Night 2, the follow-up to his 2022 holiday action hit, which sees David Harbour reprise his unconventional take on Santa Claus. That film is slated for a December 4 release from Universal Pictures.
Why Netflix Makes Sense
With its genre-heavy storytelling, star-driven cast, and mysterious premise, the thriller feels tailor-made for Netflix’s global audience. The streamer has increasingly become the go-to destination for projects that studios hesitate to gamble on theatrically — often giving them a second life and far wider reach.
Final Words
What began as a traditional studio thriller is now set for a streaming-first spotlight. With Tommy Wirkola’s track record, a strong cast, and Netflix’s promotional muscle, this untitled project could end up making a bigger splash online than it ever might have in theatres — sharks included.
