The indie genre-bender Mascotland is moving ahead with an updated ensemble as production begins in Southern California.
Written and directed by Kerry Mondragon, the project was previously announced under the title Mascots and has seen several changes since its initial reveal. Cameras recently began rolling in Los Angeles and the surrounding desert. Salomé Breziner produces, with Ben Braham Ziryab behind the lens.
Billy Zane plays a disturbed kidnapper whose captives — brothers portrayed by Oliver Hibbs Wyman and Blaine Kern III — experience the outside world for the first time after growing up in confinement.
Their journey begins to transform after they encounter Tyrese Gibson’s character, setting the stage for a redemptive turn.
Jake Busey assumes the role that had earlier been associated with Udo Kier, who died late last year.
Felicia ‘Snoop’ Pearson, Leo Fitzpatrick, James Paxton and Lin Shaye round out the ensemble.
When the film was first introduced, Mickey Rourke and Mekhi Phifer were part of the announced lineup. As development progressed, the cast configuration shifted into what audiences see today.
Mondragon previously directed Tyger Tyger and continues leaning into bold, unconventional storytelling that blends trauma, identity and survival.
Executive producers include Ben Lewin, Bryan Anderson, Matt Karol, Gabrielle Almagor, Samuel J. Pauling, Jijo Reed, Sugar Studios, Maritime Artists and Akashic Studios.