featuring @a24
Amanda Seyfried is adding another intriguing project to her growing filmography, joining Sharon Stone and Ramy Youssef in Martha & Muhammad, an upcoming comedy from independent studio A24.
The Oscar-nominated actress has signed on to the project as anticipation continues to build around her recent performances, including her acclaimed turn in The Testament of Ann Lee. While details surrounding Seyfried’s character remain under wraps, her addition brings another major name to a film that already boasts an exciting creative team.
Youssef will write, direct and star in the comedy, marking his feature directorial debut. The project follows his success in television and stand-up comedy, where he has developed a distinctive approach to stories exploring identity, faith and the complexities of contemporary life.
What Is
Martha & Muhammad
About?
The film centres on a wealthy, widowed white socialite living in New York who develops an unexpected relationship with a much younger Muslim man. The story is expected to explore themes of religion, immigration, social class and the complications surrounding relationships with significant age differences.
With Youssef at the helm, the premise offers plenty of room for the uncomfortable situations and cultural observations that have become a hallmark of his comedy. However, the filmmakers have yet to reveal how Seyfried and Stone fit into the story, leaving their respective characters a mystery for now.
A24 is financing the film, with Youssef producing through his Cairo Cowboy banner alongside Josh Safdie, Ronald Bronstein and Eli Bush of Central, as well as Christopher Storer and Tyson Bidner through American Light & Fixture.
Ramy Youssef Makes the Move to Feature Filmmaking
Youssef has established himself as a distinctive creative voice through projects including Ramy, the Hulu comedy-drama series he created and starred in. The series earned him a Golden Globe Award and a Peabody Award, alongside two Primetime Emmy nominations.
His directing experience also includes episodes of FX’s The Bear, while his recent work has extended to the animated comedy #1 Happy Family USA and his stand-up specials. His performance in Yorgos Lanthimos’ Poor Things further demonstrated his ability to move between comedy and more unconventional cinematic projects.
Stepping into feature filmmaking as a writer, director and leading actor represents a significant new chapter for Youssef, with Martha & Muhammad giving him the opportunity to bring his distinctive perspective to the big screen.
Amanda Seyfried Continues Her Busy Run
Seyfried has maintained a strong presence across film and television, earning recognition for her versatility in projects ranging from the musical phenomenon Mamma Mia! to the acclaimed limited series The Dropout, in which she portrayed disgraced Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes.
More recently, she has appeared in The Housemaid and The Testament of Ann Lee, further demonstrating her range across different genres. Her involvement in Martha & Muhammad adds another notable collaboration to her upcoming slate.
Stone, meanwhile, remains one of Hollywood’s most recognisable screen performers. Best known for films including Basic Instinct and Casino, the latter earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. Her casting alongside Youssef already made the project an unexpected pairing, and Seyfried’s arrival adds further intrigue.
With A24 backing the production and Youssef taking on his first feature as a director, Martha & Muhammad is shaping up to be an interesting addition to the studio’s comedy lineup.
A release date and further casting details have yet to be announced.
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