Dylan O’Brien and Hudson Williams Star in Sofia Banzhaf’s Exciting New Thriller ‘Apparatus’
Dylan O’Brien and Hudson Williams are set to star in Apparatus, a darkly comedic thriller that marks the feature directorial debut of Canadian actress Sofia Banzhaf. Banzhaf is known for her previous work on the short film I Am in the World as Free and Slender as a Deer on a Plain.
The screenplay, co-written by Banzhaf and Grayson Moore, follows Tyler, portrayed by Williams, a struggling rideshare driver increasingly influenced by JP, played by O’Brien. JP, a self-styled entrepreneur, promises Tyler a better future in his handheld-massager business. However, what appears to be a golden opportunity soon spirals into violence and chaos.
Producers for the film include Julie Baldassi of Younger Daughter Films, Daniel Bekerman of Scythia Films, Banzhaf, Moore, and Brian Robertson. The project is co-financed by Sam Sutcliffe and Jasmin Karibzhanova of Ursa Major Films, along with contributions from Nicholas Chepesiuk, Telefilm Canada, and Mongrel Media. WME Independent and CAA Media Finance are co-representing the film for sales. Production dates and shooting locations are still under finalization.
O’Brien has gained significant recognition recently, clinching a Sundance Jury Award and a Spirit Award nomination for his dual performances in Twinless. He also starred alongside Rachel McAdams in Send Help, a survival horror thriller that dominated the domestic box office, grossing over $93 million in January. O’Brien’s forthcoming projects include Being Heumann, where he will star alongside Ruth Madeley and Mark Ruffalo.
Williams gained prominence for his role opposite Connor Storrie in the acclaimed queer hockey romance Heated Rivalry, which is heading into its second season. He will also appear in Netflix’s upcoming series The Altruists.
Banzhaf previously directed the short film I Am in the World as Free and Slender as a Deer on a Plain, which premiered at TIFF and was included in Canada’s Top 10 shorts for the year. She is represented by Amanda Rosenthal Talent Agency. Meanwhile, Moore is represented by Verve and New Story Entertainment, with Bekerman being represented by WME.
