Idris Elba, fresh off his appearance at the Venice Film Festival, where he introduced Kathryn Bigelow's latest project, "A House of Dynamite," has lined up his next major creative endeavor. The Golden Globe-winning actor, filmmaker, and producer is set to both star in and direct a feature film adaptation of Neil LaBute's play "This is How it Goes" for Apple TV+, Variety has confirmed.
The film marks a new chapter in Elba's longstanding relationship with Apple, where he has become one of the streaming platform's most prominent creative voices following the success of his high-stakes thriller series "Hijack". The series, which he executive-produced and headlined, has already been renewed for a sequel.
A tense psychological drama, "This is How it Goes" explores themes of identity, truth, and manipulation through the story of a married couple who seemingly reconnect by chance with an old acquaintance from their school days. What begins as a generous offer to house the old friend spirals into a study of fractured relationships, uncomfortable secrets, and shifting perceptions of reality. LaBute, known for his provocative and often unsettling examinations of human behavior, originally premiered the play in 2005.
Elba is no stranger to the material. He starred in the 2005 West End production alongside Ben Chaplin and Megan Dodds, portraying Cody, a character central to the play's dramatic tension. However, Elba will step into a different, currently undisclosed role for the upcoming screen version, suggesting a fresh interpretation of the work and its dynamics.
The adaptation is being penned by Nathaniel Price (Mr. Loverman, The Outlaws), who brings his experience in layered, character-driven storytelling to the project. The film also represents a significant collaboration between Elba's newly formed production company, 22Summers-co-founded with Diene Petterle and Gina Carter-and the French studio Gaumont. Together, they will serve as the production backbone for the Apple Original Film.
Production details are still under wraps, with casting announcements expected in the months ahead. Gina Carter will produce for 22Summers, while Alison Jackson will produce on behalf of Gaumont. Elba himself will serve as executive producer through 22Summers, with Sidonie Dumas representing Gaumont on the executive production team.
For Elba, "This is How it Goes" continues his trajectory as both a performer and director. His directorial debut, Yardie, premiered in 2018 to critical recognition, and he has since expanded his behind-the-camera work with two forthcoming features: "Above the Below" and "Infernus", both of which he also stars in.