Zendaya is set to star in a new science-fiction film written and directed by Alex Garland for A24. The project, scheduled to begin filming in 2027, brings together the actress and the filmmaker behind Ex Machina and Civil War. The untitled feature marks another collaboration between Zendaya and A24, while giving Garland an opportunity to return to the science-fiction genre that has shaped much of his career.
The project marks another significant collaboration between Zendaya and A24, following her Emmy-winning performance in Euphoria and her recent theatrical release The Drama, in which she starred opposite Robert Pattinson. Directed by Kristoffer Borgli, the dark comedy earned nearly $135 million worldwide. These projects have allowed Zendaya to explore different kinds of stories, from the complicated lives of young people in Euphoria to the uncomfortable relationship dynamics at the centre of The Drama.
The new film also continues Garland’s relationship with A24, which has supported several of his recognised projects. His work with the studio includes Ex Machina, Men, Civil War and Warfare, the last of which he co-directed with Ray Mendoza. The upcoming feature will add another title to his filmography, with Zendaya taking the lead in a story shaped by Garland’s interest in human behaviour and technology.
Science fiction has been a defining part of Garland’s career. His 2014 film Ex Machina examined artificial intelligence through the relationship between a programmer and an advanced humanoid robot. Annihilation explored a mysterious region where the natural world undergoes unusual transformations, while the FX series Devs examined technology, free will and the possibility of predicting human actions. His latest collaboration with Zendaya will bring him back to the genre through another A24 production.
The project adds another high-profile production to A24’s upcoming theatrical slate. The collaboration comes during a busy period for both Zendaya and Garland, extending the actress’s relationship with the studio while giving the filmmaker another science-fiction story to develop for the big screen.
Zendaya is also preparing to reprise her role as Chani in Denis Villeneuve’s Dune: Part Three, which is scheduled for release on December 18, 2026. The A24 film is expected to begin production in 2027, following her work on the third instalment of the Dune franchise.
Garland also has another major production on his schedule. His live-action adaptation of the video game Elden Ring, backed by A24, is scheduled for release on March 3, 2028. The film features Kit Connor and Cailee Spaeny, among other cast members, adding a fantasy project to the filmmaker’s growing list of commitments.
Garland’s schedule has also affected plans for the proposed third film in the 28 Years Later series. Director Danny Boyle recently said the project had been put on the back burner. Boyle has previously worked with Garland on the franchise, with Garland writing the screenplays. The delay highlights the number of projects competing for the filmmaker’s time as he moves between science fiction, fantasy and post-apocalyptic stories.
The new A24 project offers Zendaya another opportunity to work with a filmmaker whose approach differs from the large franchise productions that have become a significant part of her career. For Garland, the film brings a leading actress into a genre he has explored through several distinctive projects. With production planned for 2027, the collaboration adds another title to A24’s upcoming film slate.
