Paul Greengrass Takes the Wheel with ‘Test Drive’ at 20th Century
Oscar-Nominated Director Paul Greengrass in Talks to Direct ‘Test Drive’
Paul Greengrass, the Oscar-nominated filmmaker known for his compelling storytelling, is in negotiations to direct the thriller Test Drive for 20th Century Studios. This project follows the critical success of his recent film, The Lost Bus, which received acclaim last fall.
The studio acquired the screenplay from writer Matt Venne in a competitive bidding process in fall 2024. Enthusiastic reactions to the initial draft prompted 20th Century to pursue Greengrass for the project. With his involvement, the studio aims to advance production by late 2026 or early 2027.
While specific plot details remain undisclosed, Test Drive is characterized as an action-packed two-hander thriller. Joby Harold and Tory Tunnell are set to produce through their Safe House banner, alongside Joanna Kaye, with Greg Goodman also in a producing role. Scott Aversano will oversee production for 20th Century Studios.
Greengrass is well-regarded for his ability to engage audiences, dating back to his Oscar-nominated work on United 93. His career gained momentum with The Bourne Supremacy in 2004, starring Matt Damon, and he continued to direct subsequent sequels, including The Bourne Ultimatum (2007) and Jason Bourne (2016). His other noteworthy films include News of the World, 22 July, Captain Phillips, Bloody Sunday, and The Theory of Flight.
Most recently, Greengrass directed The Lost Bus for Apple Original Films, which premiered at the Toronto Film Festival and garnered strong reviews for both the director and star Matthew McConaughey. He is also helming the upcoming Focus Features film The Uprising (formerly The Rage), a story set during a turbulent rebellion against King Richard II in 14th-century England, starring Andrew Garfield.
Greengrass is represented by CAA and attorney Carlos Goodman.
