Barry Jenkins is stepping into the sci-fi world with The Natural Order, his next big studio project after Mufasa: The Lion King. Universal Pictures has locked in the Oscar-winning director to helm the thriller, with Glen Powell attached to star.
Here’s what we know so far: While plot details are under wraps, we do know that it’s billed as an elevated sci-fi thriller exploring the pursuit of eternal life. Based on an unpublished manuscript by Coco writer Matt Aldrich, the project will see Jenkins and Aldrich adapting the book into a screenplay. As far as we can tell, this marks a new genre for Jenkins, who’s known for his human drama but is now stepping into the realm of sci-fi with a film that may be a game changer.
The Natural Order will also mark the first film from Powell’s production company, Barnstorm, under its first-look deal with Universal. Powell isn’t just starring in this—he’s also producing the film. This man is on fire right now. Between Twisters breaking records at the box office, Anyone But You taking audiences by storm, and his upcoming role in The Running Man remake, Powell is making moves. He’s clearly one of Hollywood’s go-to stars, and this project only adds to his growing list of high-profile gigs.
Jenkins is no stranger to making waves. After his Oscar-winning turn with Moonlight, followed by the success of If Beale Street Could Talk and The Underground Railroad, he’s now jumping into a new genre. Fans are curious to see how he tackles sci-fi, and with the incredible talent behind this project, expectations are high.
Along with Jenkins and Powell, Pastel—the production company co-founded by Jenkins—will be producing, with Adele Romanski and Mark Ceryak executive producing. Jewerl Keats Ross, who was instrumental in bringing the team together, is also in talks to produce. Ross has a solid track record, including producing Sujo, which won the Sundance Grand Jury Prize.
No official release date yet, but we can expect The Natural Order to hit theaters sometime in 2026. With all the talent involved, this is shaping up to be a must-watch. Keep an eye on this one—it’s sure to be a game-changer.