Cory Michael Smith has joined the “Scapegoat” cast, boarding Ari Aster’s next film for A24 alongside Scarlett Johansson, according to Deadline, which broke the casting news Oct. 21. Smith joins an ensemble that already includes Jacob Elordi, Jude Law, Ella Purnell, Caleb Landry Jones and Samba Schutte.
Aster is writing and directing the thriller, his follow-up to “Eddington,” after taking his time to settle on what came next. A24, the studio behind all four of Aster’s previous features, is distributing.
The Role and Casting Details
Smith’s character hasn’t been revealed, and the plot is still locked down. That hasn’t stopped the guessing. Some say the story follows a doctor who operates on an internet celebrity, while others peg it as a sci-fi romance or a more traditional drama for Aster. Insiders told Deadline there’s no consensus yet.
The Project So Far
Johansson leads the cast. Aster is also producing with his longtime partner Lars Knudsen through their Square Peg banner.
Cameras are reportedly set to roll Nov. 9, with cinematographer Darius Khondji reuniting with Aster, according to World of Reel. A24 hasn’t confirmed a production schedule.
Cory Michael Smith’s Recent Work
Smith earned acclaim for his performance as a tech billionaire in the HBO movie “Mountainhead,” which he headlined alongside Steve Carell, Jason Schwartzman and Ramy Youssef. He also stars opposite Dakota Fanning and Jake Johnson in Joe Swanberg’s romantic drama “The Sun Never Sets,” which hit theaters nationwide Sept. 4.
Smith also leads “Slayground,” Jeremy Saulnier’s Halloween-set thriller for A24, arriving in theaters Jan. 29, 2027.
What’s Next for ‘Scapegoat’
No release window has been announced. If filming starts on schedule, World of Reel suggests the film could be ready for a 2027 premiere.
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