A prestige pairing is heading to the European Film Market. Jessica Chastain and Chris Pine are set to star in This Is Pleasure, a buzzy new feature inspired by This Is Pleasure and positioned as one of EFM’s most talked-about packages.
The project blends literary pedigree with awards-season talent — and tackles complicated questions around power, loyalty, and accountability.
A Friendship Tested by Allegations
The film centers on Margot (Chastain), whose world is shaken when accusations of misconduct threaten to dismantle the career of her closest friend, Quin (Pine), a charismatic and influential publisher. As the fallout grows, Margot is forced to confront an impossible choice: stand by friendship, pursue forgiveness, or face the truth head-on — even if it costs her everything.
Rather than offering easy answers, the story leans into moral ambiguity, examining how long-standing relationships fracture under public reckoning.
From Page to Screen
The screenplay is adapted by Nina Raine, based on Mary Gaitskill’s acclaimed 2019 novella, widely praised for its measured and unsettling take on the #MeToo era.
Gaitskill’s work has a notable history on screen. Her short story Secretary, from the 1988 collection Bad Behavior, was previously adapted into the now-cult 2002 film starring Maggie Gyllenhaal and James Spader — a touchstone for provocative, character-driven storytelling.
An Awards-Caliber Creative Team
Directing duties fall to Shari Springer Berman and Robert Pulcini, the longtime creative partners behind American Splendor, which earned an Oscar nomination. The duo have also directed episodes of prestige TV hits including Fleishman Is in Trouble, Succession, and Only Murders in the Building — experience that fits the film’s intimate, dialogue-driven tone.
Producers and Market Launch
This Is Pleasure is produced by Killer Films’ Christine Vachon and Pamela Koffler, with Chastain producing via Freckle Films and Pine through Barry Linen Motion Pictures. Fremantle is backing the production.
Worldwide sales will be handled by CAA Media Finance and The Veterans, who will officially introduce the project at the European Film Market (EFM).
Final Words
With two heavyweight stars, a fearless source text, and filmmakers known for nuanced, adult storytelling, This Is Pleasure is shaping up as a serious contender in the prestige space. As conversations around accountability and power continue to evolve, this project looks ready to meet them head-on — not with slogans, but with complexity.
