Kevin Costner Joins Surf Thriller ‘Headhunters’ as Star and Co-Writer
Kevin Costner Rides the Wave in Surf Thriller ‘Headhunters’
Kevin Costner is set to dive into his next cinematic adventure with the surf thriller Headhunters. The Academy Award-winning actor, along with his production company Territory Pictures, is collaborating with Scott Steindorff and Stone Village Films. This marks a new chapter for Costner, who has recently focused on his expansive Horizon: An American Saga franchise.
Costner takes on multiple roles in Headhunters as an actor, producer, and co-screenwriter. The film will be directed by Steven Holleran, an accomplished cinematographer making his feature debut. Holleran originated the film’s concept, which he and Costner developed into a script that transports Costner far from the rural landscapes of his recent work in Yellowstone and Horizon.
Headhunters is described as a thrilling blend of surf culture’s energy and horror’s suspense. Costner stars as Lazer, a washed-up American ex-pat with a shadowy past, living in Bali, Indonesia. Lazer recruits a team of surfers led by local photographer Bima to explore an uncharted island in search of the “perfect wave.” However, they soon discover the island is inhabited by a fierce tribe of headhunters fiercely protecting their territory. The film promises a gripping adventure that evolves into a survival story with intense and bloody stakes.
Currently in pre-production in Hawaii, Headhunters is set to begin filming in November. Multiple studios and streaming platforms are competing for distribution rights. The cast is still being finalized, but Daniel Zovatto, known for his standout roles in Station Eleven and The Pope’s Exorcist, has already joined the project, reuniting with Steindorff, who executive produced Station Eleven.
Steindorff expressed his excitement about collaborating with Costner: “For decades, my friend Kevin and I have been searching for the right project. This is one of the best scripts I’ve encountered in my career.” He praised Costner’s legendary status and the depth he brings to his roles.
Holleran, reflecting on his journey, shared, “My filmmaking career began with surf videos in California, and Headhunters brings together my lifelong passions for surfing, filmmaking, and adventure.”
The creative team includes renowned cinematographer Ericson Core (Point Break, The Fast and the Furious), production designer Derek Hill (Ozark, Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl), and costume designer Lisa Lovaas (Horizon: An American Saga).
With production led by Costner and Steindorff, the film promises to be a thrilling collaboration filled with talent. Costner, represented by WME, has recently received acclaim for his role in Yellowstone, while Zovatto is also set to star in Anna Kendrick’s upcoming directorial debut, Woman of the Hour.
