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Ben Shapiro just announced Daily Wire’s explosive action film starring Jonathan Majors. The untitled project began filming last week in South Carolina. Will this throwback thriller mark a major Hollywood comeback?
🔥 Quick Facts
- First Film Since 2023: Major returning to camera for first time in 4 years
- Red Dawn Influence: Director Kyle Rankin crafted screenplay inspired by ’80s and ’90s action classics
- High-Profile Cast: David Lucas, James Bingham, and Jason Gray-Stanford joining ensemble
- Production Timeline: South Carolina filming launched February 26, rolling cameras actively
Jonathan Majors Makes Bold Comeback with Daily Wire Action Thriller
Jonathan Majors is stepping in front of cameras for the first time since 2023 in what could become a turning point for his career. After being dropped by Marvel and multiple studios following his assault conviction, the acclaimed actor had been largely sidelined from major projects. This independent film from Ben Shapiro’s Daily Wire marks a strategic pivot toward alternative financing and creative freedom outside the traditional studio system.
The action-packed thriller brings together a talented ensemble cast including comedian David Lucas, James Bingham from the series Swagger, and veteran character actor Jason Gray-Stanford from Monk. The film promises high-octane sequences and intense patriotic themes that align with its described ’80s and ’90s action aesthetic.
Ben Shapiro announces Daily Wire’s new Jonathan Majors action film in production
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Director Kyle Rankin Returns for Second Daily Wire Collaboration
Writer-director Kyle Rankin brings proven expertise to this ambitious project, having previously collaborated with Daily Wire and Bonfire Legend on the 2020 Venice Film Festival selection titled Run Hide Fight. His original screenplay channels the spirit of iconic Cold War thrillers and features younger protagonists forced to defend themselves against invading forces. This narrative framework suggests a film that blends contemporary action cinematography with timeless heroic storytelling.
| Production Detail | Information |
| Director | Kyle Rankin (writer-director) |
| Producers | Ben Shapiro, Dallas Sonnier, Travis Mills, Lillian Campbell |
| Filming Location | South Carolina, active production |
| Genre Inspiration | Red Dawn, Toy Soldiers (1980s/90s action) |
Daily Wire’s Strategy: Building an Alternative Hollywood Pipeline
The Daily Wire has strategically positioned itself as an alternative entertainment studio outside traditional studio gatekeeping. By backing Jonathan Majors, the company follows a proven pattern: investing in talented actors whose careers have faced obstacles in mainstream Hollywood. Previous projects featured Gina Carano and other performers seeking independent production financing.
Ben Shapiro‘s involvement signals ideological commitment alongside commercial ambition. The company controls distribution channels, audience demographics, and cultural alignment, creating leverage that traditional studios fear losing. This financial model allows for creative autonomy and faster decision-making compared to major studio bureaucracy.
Can This Film Resurrect Majors’ Career Outside the Studio System
The central question haunting Hollywood remains unresolved: Can audiences separate the artist from controversy and reconnect with Jonathan Majors’ talent? Before his 2023 conviction, he starred in critically acclaimed films like Creed III and secured the coveted Kang role in Marvel’s MCU. His dramatic range and physical intensity impressed industry observers.
This independent action vehicle offers a clean break from franchise baggage. If the film achieves commercial success or audience enthusiasm, it may demonstrate that Majors retains market value outside the studio system. Success could crack open doors previously closed by major distributors. Conversely, if the film underperforms, the streaming wars and alternative production companies may represent his only realistic pathway forward.
“When threats strike the heart of the homeland, American warriors rise with unbreakable grit and unrelenting firepower to defend what makes this country worth fighting for.”
Daily Wire, official film description
Sources
- Deadline – Exclusive cast and production details with confirmed filming status
- The Hollywood Reporter – Ben Shapiro interview and major project announcement
- Military.com – Comprehensive career analysis and comeback narrative context











