featuring @netflix @charli_xcx @anyataylorjoy @chrisevans
Chris Evans is about to find himself in serious trouble in Netflix’s upcoming thriller Sacrifice, an ambitious new film packed with an all-star cast. Directed by Romain Gavras in his English-language feature debut and co-written with Succession writer Will Arbery, Sacrifice stars Evans alongside Anya Taylor-Joy, Salma Hayek Pinault, John Malkovich, Vincent Cassel, and Charli xcx.
Gavras, whose previous work includes music videos for artists such as M.I.A., Jay-Z, and Kanye West, as well as the acclaimed 2022 French film Athena, says assembling the cast felt like “being a kid in a toy shop.” He adds that he was grateful the actors joined him in Greece for what he describes as a “spectacular unconventional adventure.”
Evans plays Mike Tyler, an insecure movie star attempting to repair his public image following a viral meltdown. Before returning to the Marvel Cinematic Universe in Avengers: Doomsday, the actor takes on a very different kind of role as a celebrity struggling with ego, insecurity, and the bizarre pressures of fame. Mike’s attempt at a comeback begins at an environmental charity gala hosted by billionaire entrepreneur Vincent Cassel and his wife, played by Hayek Pinault. However, the glamorous evening quickly spirals out of control when Joan, portrayed by Taylor-Joy, and her radical group violently storm the event.
Their mission is tied to a mysterious volcanic prophecy and a plan to cleanse the planet, turning the gala into a terrifying hostage situation. As the night unfolds, those trapped inside are forced to question their beliefs, identities, and ultimately what they are willing to sacrifice.
According to the director, the performance allows Evans to portray a side of himself audiences have rarely seen before, particularly as the character grapples with his ego, distorted sense of reality, grand ambitions, and deep insecurities.
The film’s unusual setting adds another layer to its chaotic atmosphere. Half of Sacrifice was filmed inside a massive marble mine in northern Greece, which the production transformed into an extravagant gala venue. While the characters arrived dressed in formal clothing and luxury fashion, marble excavation was still taking place elsewhere in the mine.
Gavras describes the experience as “beautiful organized chaos,” an environment that perfectly suited the film’s unpredictable tone.
Blending psychological drama, dark comedy, and high-stakes suspense, Sacrifice promises a story that constantly shifts between absurdity and danger. Gavras describes the movie as being “built like a rollercoaster,” while also suggesting that its provocative story explores whether humanity can find a way to save a world seemingly headed for disaster.
The cast also includes Veep star Sam Richardson, One Day actress Ambika Mod, The Witcher actor Jade Croot, and rapper Yung Lean.
Sacrifice premieres October 16 on Netflix in the United States and France.
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