Emma Stone and Chris Pine are teaming up for what could be one of the most anticipated romantic comedies in recent years. The project, titled The Catch, has generated buzz in Hollywood after reports confirmed Emma Stone is attached to star, with Chris Pine in talks for the lead opposite her.
According to an exclusive from Deadline, Universal Pictures is behind this upcoming rom-com, described as a “two-hander” that focuses primarily on its two central characters. The film marks the first time these two charismatic actors will share the screen, promising fresh chemistry in a genre both have excelled in during different phases of their careers.
Behind the Camera: A Personal Touch
Adding an intriguing layer to the production, The Catch will be directed by Dave McCary, Emma Stone’s husband. McCary, best known for directing the cult favorite Brigsby Bear (2017), brings his signature blend of humor and heart to the project. The screenplay comes from writers Patrick Kang (known for The Paper) and Michael Levin (Young Rock), setting the stage for sharp, witty dialogue and emotional depth.
The film is being produced through Fruit Tree, the production company founded by Stone and McCary in 2020, alongside other producers including Shawn Levy and Dan Levine through 21 Laps.
Plot Details: Still Under Wraps
Specific plot information remains closely guarded, with no official synopsis released yet. However, some earlier speculation has linked the title “The Catch” to baseball themes—possibly involving a devoted fan whose actions inadvertently impact her favorite team, leading to guilt, attention, and unexpected romance. Whether Pine’s character ties into that sports angle or brings a different dynamic is anyone’s guess, but the setup hints at classic rom-com elements: mishaps, personal growth, and undeniable sparks.
A summer shoot has been eyed in some reports, which could position The Catch for a 2027 theatrical release, though no official timeline has been announced.
Emma Stone’s Hot Streak Continues
For Emma Stone, this project arrives at the peak of her career momentum. The two-time Academy Award winner (for La La Land and Poor Things) recently starred in Yorgos Lanthimos’ Bugonia (2025), a performance that earned her another Best Actress Oscar win. That followed her role in Ari Aster’s Eddington (2024). With her producing involvement and critical acclaim, Stone has solidified her status as one of Hollywood’s most versatile and bankable stars. The Catch represents a return to lighter fare, where her comedic timing and charm have always shone.
Chris Pine’s Versatile Path to Rom-Coms
Chris Pine, no stranger to high-profile roles, brings his own star power to the table. Known for franchises like Star Trek and blockbusters such as Wonder Woman and Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, Pine has also shown dramatic range in films like Don’t Worry Darling. More recently, he starred in The Kidnapping of Arabella (2025) and is set for the 2026 romantic drama Carousel, written and directed by Rachel Lambert.
If Pine officially signs on, The Catch would mark a fun pivot back to romantic comedy territory, leveraging his effortless charisma and quick wit.
Why This Pairing Has Fans Excited
The combination of Stone’s quirky, relatable energy and Pine’s suave, grounded appeal could revive the spark of mid-2000s sports-tinged rom-coms like Fever Pitch, Wimbledon, or Bend It Like Beckham. In an era where original rom-coms are rarer on the big screen, The Catch stands out as a promising, character-driven original from Universal.
Stay tuned for updates on casting confirmation, production start dates, and the first glimpses of what could be a delightful addition to both stars’ filmographies. Hollywood rom-com lovers, this one might just be the catch of the year!
