The high-stakes action thriller Cliffhanger is set for a fresh reboot, this time featuring Lily James and Pierce Brosnan in lead roles. Directed by Jaume Collet-Serra, the film has begun production in Austria, with scenes also planned in Italy’s dramatic Dolomites. Fans can expect a reimagined storyline and breathtaking mountain visuals in this new take on the 1993 original.
By Aubree Ross
A Revamped Plot with New Leading Roles
In the new Cliffhanger story, Pierce Brosnan takes on the role of Ray Cooper, an experienced mountaineer who runs a chalet in the Dolomites with his family. When Cooper and his daughter are kidnapped, his older daughter Naomi (played by Lily James) must conquer her own trauma to rescue them. This reboot takes the iconic mountain escape theme in a new direction, blending high-intensity action with personal resilience. Initially, Sylvester Stallone was set to star in the project, but he and former director Ric Roman Waugh ultimately departed.
Filming in the Dolomites for Authenticity
To capture the rugged beauty essential to the film, production is taking place in the actual Dolomites. Director Jaume Collet-Serra emphasized the importance of using large-format cameras to bring out the stunning vistas and heighten the film’s immersive experience. Lily James has undergone intense mountaineering training, impressing the team with her dedication, which has allowed for some truly dynamic action scenes. Her commitment ensures that the film captures a realistic portrayal of mountain survival, with breathtaking scenes that might not have been possible otherwise.
A Cast and Crew of International Talent
Alongside Brosnan and James, the film stars a diverse ensemble cast, including Nell Tiger Free, Franz Rogowski, and Shubham Saraf. The story was developed by Ana Lily Amirpour, a notable filmmaker whose unique approach has earned her acclaim. Collet-Serra’s direction promises to deliver a fast-paced, visually rich film that aims to captivate audiences. Producers Lars Sylvest, Joe Neurauter, and Thorsten Schumacher, in partnership with Thank You Pictures and Rocket Science, are working to bring this ambitious project to theaters.
Building on the Original’s Legacy
The original Cliffhanger, released in 1993, became a box office hit, grossing over $255 million and solidifying Stallone’s status as an action icon. With this new adaptation, producers hope to appeal to both fans of the original and new audiences who appreciate a well-crafted thriller. By using real locations and a talented cast, the reboot is expected to recreate the suspense and visual allure that made the original a classic.
As Cliffhanger heads back to theaters, producers anticipate an exciting new take on the classic mountain thriller for modern audiences.
Based on information from hollywoodreporter.com and own research.