Al Pacino joins thriller 'Dead Man's Wire': What to expect
What's the story
Hollywood legend Al Pacino has joined the star-studded cast of the upcoming crime thriller, Dead Man's Wire, reported Deadline.
Directed by Academy Award nominee Gus Van Sant and written by Austin Kolodney, the film is based on a real-life hostage situation from 1977.
The ensemble also features Bill Skarsgård (Nosferatu), Cary Elwes (Saw), Dacre Montgomery (Stranger Things), Myha'la Herrold (Bodies Bodies Bodies), and Colman Domingo (Euphoria).
Film plot
'Dead Man's Wire': A return to hostage thrillers for Pacino
The plot of Dead Man's Wire is based on a true incident that transpired on February 8, 1977.
Anthony G. "Tony" Kiritsis held Meridian Mortgage Company president Richard O. Hall hostage with a shotgun wired with a "dead man's wire."
He demanded $5 million, no criminal charges, and an apology from Hall.
This film marks a return to hostage thriller for Pacino since the 1975 classic Dog Day Afternoon.
Role speculation
Pacino's role in 'Dead Man's Wire' remains undisclosed
While Pacino's exact role in Dead Man's Wire remains undisclosed, his late addition to the cast indicates he may not be playing a lead character.
Considering his vast experience in the crime genre, there's speculation he could possibly play Hall or maybe even the roles of a police chief or newsman.
More details about his casting are expected to emerge as production progresses.
Production details
'Dead Man's Wire' production timeline and release
The production of Dead Man's Wire began in January 2025 and is expected to wrap up by May.
The film is inspired by the true story of what happened when Kiritsis, believing Hall was after his property, held him hostage after being refused more time to pay.
Throughout the 63-hour ordeal, Kiritsis reportedly often spoke to radio station reporter Fred Heckman as he negotiated with Hall.