Jack O’Connell, Odessa A’zion Star in Flat-Earther Film

Jack O’Connell and Odessa A’zion are set to star in the feature film debut of filmmaking duo Ross White and Tom Berkeley, titled "The End of the World as We Know It." The project is being developed with Studiocanal, Working Title, Parkville Pictures, and Film4. White and Berkeley previously garnered critical acclaim and won an Oscar and a BAFTA for their short film "An Irish Goodbye." This new film will see them transition to feature-length filmmaking, with O’Connell and A’zion taking on the lead roles.

"The End of the World as We Know It" will reportedly follow a narrative centered around characters who are flat-earthers. While specific plot details remain under wraps, the casting of O’Connell and A’zion, both recognized for their performances in recent acclaimed projects, signals a significant artistic endeavor for the emerging directorial team. O’Connell most recently appeared in Michael Mann's "Ferrari" and the Apple TV+ series "Slow Horses." A’zion gained prominence for her role in the Netflix series "Grand Army" and the film "Hellraiser."

The involvement of established production companies such as Studiocanal and Working Title, known for producing critically and commercially successful films like "Billy Elliot" and "Four Weddings and a Funeral," underscores the potential of "The End of the World as We Know It." Parkville Pictures and Film4, which have supported numerous award-winning independent films, also contribute to the project's robust backing. The collaboration brings together a team with a proven track record in delivering impactful cinematic experiences, from the intimate storytelling of "An Irish Goodbye" to the broader appeal of Working Title's extensive filmography.

Ross White and Tom Berkeley’s "An Irish Goodbye" achieved significant recognition, winning the Academy Award for Best Live Action Short Film and a BAFTA Award. This success has paved the way for their feature directorial debut, with "The End of the World as We Know It" marking their ambitious next step. The film's premise, focusing on flat-earther characters, offers a contemporary and potentially provocative theme, allowing the filmmakers to explore societal beliefs and individual perspectives through their distinct directorial vision. The production is expected to commence principal photography in the coming months, with further casting announcements anticipated.