Sarah Gadon and Tom Hughes Star in ‘Iron Ribbon’, a Tale of a Famous Paris Crime of Passion at Cannes Market
Sarah Gadon and Tom Hughes to Star in ‘Iron Ribbon’
Exciting news in the film industry: Sarah Gadon, known for her role in Alias Grace, will lead the cast of Iron Ribbon, alongside Tom Hughes from Victoria, Robert Kazinsky of Pacific Rim, and Tamer Hassan from Layer Cake. This UK independent feature is inspired by the true story of Polish actress Stanisława “Stasia” Umińska, whose trial in 1920s Paris became a landmark case involving a crime of passion.
In Iron Ribbon, Gadon will portray Umińska, an ambitious actress accused of murdering her lover, the artist Jan Zyznowski. This sensational case captivated Paris, and Umińska was ultimately acquitted, making it one of the early high-profile trials connected to “mercy killings."
Hughes will play Zyznowski, while Kazinsky takes on the role of Donat Guigne, and Hassan will portray Arnold Szyfman. Lee Knight, known for his performance in Hamlet, will depict Tuwim.
Written by Adam Howes, recognized for Foxhole, the film is set to be directed by Jarek Marszewski, who previously worked on Bikini Blue. The cinematography will be handled by Michał Sobociński, known for Chopin! Chopin!, and the film is framed against the vibrant backdrop of Jazz Age Paris.
Produced by Daniella Gonella’s DG Productions, Iron Ribbon aims to begin principal photography in late 2026. Joining Gonella in production are Lee Thomas, Jay Michaelson, and Rosa Russo. The project is currently in pre-production, with producers and actor Hassan scheduled to attend the Cannes market, where they will engage with potential partners.
The film’s crew will include notable talent such as Oscar- and BAFTA-winning sound designer Glenn Freemantle (Gravity) and BAFTA-nominated editor John Wilson (Billy Elliot). Composer Edmund Butt, known for his work on Yellowstone, will also be part of the project, alongside storyboard artist Temple Clark (Gravity), location manager Elliott Meddings (Skyfall), and production lawyer Richard Moxon (The Queen).
