Announcing “C.L.A.Y.”: A New Psychological Cyber-Thriller
EXCLUSIVE: A stellar cast including Nicolas Cage (Longlegs), Michael Sheen (Masters of Sex), Jordi Mollà (Mobland), Emilio Sakraya (One Piece: The Battle Of Alabasta), and Adrian Topol (Snowflake) will feature in the new film C.L.A.Y., a psychological cyber-thriller from the creative mind of Simon Afram.
This marks Afram’s first venture into directing, following his work as a writer and producer on the forthcoming WWII espionage thriller Fortitude, directed by Simon West. The film sees Afram reuniting with several actors from Fortitude, with additional casting still underway.
Plot Overview
C.L.A.Y. centers around a gifted yet overlooked computer savant who discovers a sense of purpose and community with C.L.A.Y. (Clowns Laughing At You), a covert group of hackers. The group’s bold actions escalate from online mischief to tangible global impacts, drawing attention from government bodies, criminal organizations, and competing hackers alike.
Set to begin filming in November 2026, the movie will be shot on location in London, under the banner of Clay Pictures Ltd.
The production team includes Edward Kahl (Queen of Manhattan), Reza Roohi (Fortitude), and Adrian Topol (Faking Bullshit) as producers. Bianca Goodloe (Mission: Impossible II), David Scaramanga (Fortitude), and Daniel Haido (Fortitude) serve as executive producers. Casting is managed by Rich Mento (Warm Bodies). Legal matters are overseen by Bianca Goodloe Esq. at Goodloe Law.
Simon Afram expressed his vision for the film, stating, “C.L.A.Y. explores themes of identity, the quest for belonging, and the profound influence the digital sphere exerts on our tangible existence. At its core, the film is a poignant narrative about individuals seeking meaning in a realm where the lines between virtual and real are blurred. My goal is to present a film that is engaging, unpredictable, and resonant.”
Representing the high-profile cast, Nicolas Cage is managed by WME, Stride Management, and GGSS&C LLP. Michael Sheen works with CAA, Link Entertainment, and Schreck Rose. Jordi Mollà is with IAG and Creative Partners Group. Emilio Sakraya’s agents are Independent Talent Group, Done Deal Entertainment, and Artist International Group. Adrian Topol is represented by Fischer & Partner Agency Germany.
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