Cory Michael Smith is joining the cast of Scapegoat, a new thriller from director Ari Aster. The A24 production will also feature stars like Scarlett Johansson and Jacob Elordi.
A Powerhouse Ensemble Including Jude Law and Jacob Elordi
Cory Michael Smith has officially signed on for Scapegoat, adding his presence to a cast that already includes Scarlett Johansson, Jude Law, and Jacob Elordi.. According to the report, the ensemble also features Ella Purnell, Caleb Landry Jones, and Samba Schutte.. This gathering of high-profile talent suggests that A24 is aiming for a significant cinematic event with this particular thriller.
The production is being steered by Ari Aster, who is handlinng both the screenplay and directing duties. Aster is producing the film alongside his long-term partner Lars Knudsen through their Square Peg banner. As reported, A24 will handle the distribution, marking a continuation of a professional relationship that has spanned all four of Ari Aster's previous directorial efforts.
Between Sci-Fi Romance and Internet Celebrities:The Scapegoat Plot Mystery
Despite the star-studded cast, the narrative of Scapegoat remains shrouded in secrecy. The report notes that insiders are divided on the actual premise, with some suggesting the story centers on a doctor treating an internet celebrity. Other theories floating around the industry describe the project as a science fiction romance, while some sources characterize it as a more traditional, straightforward drama.
This lack of clarity leaves several critical questions unanswered. It remains unknown which of these conflicting genres Ari Aster is actually pursuing, or how the diverse cast members fit into the hierarchy of the story. Furthermore,the report provides no confirmation on whether the film will lean into the surrealist horror elements that defined Aster's earlier A24 work.
From the Riddler to Slayground's January 29 Release
The casting of Cory Michael Smith in Scapegoat comes during a period of significant career momentum for the actor. Smith is widely recognized for his five-season tenure as Edward Nygma, the Riddler, in the series Gotham. His ability to navigate diverse character archetypes—ranging from "ostentatious" showmen to "regal" professionals—has made him a versatile asset for directors like Ari Aster.
Beyond his DC Comics roots, Cory Michael Smith has recently garnered acclaim for his role in HBO's Mountainhead, where he starred opposite Steve Carell and Ramy Youssef. He is also appearing in The Sun Never Sets alongside Jake Johnson and Dakota Fanning.. This streak of high-profile work will continue with the A24 thriller Slayground, directed by Jeremy Saulnier, which is scheduled for release on January 29.
Ari Aster's Fifth Collaboration with A24
Scapegoat represents the latest chapter in the symbiotic relationship between Ari Aster and the studio A24. This project serves as Aster's first directorial venture following the production of Eddington. By maintaining this partnership, Ari Aster ensures a level of creative autonomy and a specific distribution pipeline that has defined his rise in the independent film scene.
With cameras expected to begin rolling later this year, the industry is watching to see if Scapegoat will follow the trajectory of Aster's previous hits.. The combination of Scarlett Johansson's star power and A24's branding typically signals a film intended for both critical acclaim and a strong performance in the prestige awards circuit.
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