Angelina Jolie and Doug Liman Reunite for Spy Thriller ‘The Initiative’ at Universal
Hollywood stars Angelina Jolie and Doug Liman are set to reunite for the first time since their hit collaboration on Mr. and Mrs. Smith, bringing a new spy thriller to the big screen.
Project Details and Plot
Universal Pictures has secured The Initiative, a highly anticipated spy package featuring Jolie as the lead star and Liman in the director’s chair. F. Scott Frazier will pen the screenplay, with production expected to begin in early 2026.
Described as “Training Day meets espionage,” the story follows a maverick spy named Bright (Jolie) who operates beyond conventional boundaries. The plot thickens when a new agent, Charlie, joins her team, leading to intense situations where loyalties and motives become increasingly unclear.
Production Team and Background
Key production elements include:
- Producers: Joe Roth and Jeff Kirschenbaum (RK Films)
- Studio Oversight: Jay Polidoro and Tony Ducret for Universal
- Previous Collaborations: RK Films worked with Jolie on the successful Maleficent franchise
Star Power and Experience
This project marks a return to action-thriller territory for Jolie, who has recently alternated between fantastical roles (Eternals, Maleficent) and dramatic performances (Maria). For Liman, it follows his recent successes with Roadhouse on Amazon MGM and The Instigators on Apple TV+.
The Initiative promises to blend high-stakes espionage with complex character dynamics, potentially launching a new chapter in both Jolie’s and Liman’s celebrated careers.
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