Jack Thorne’s New A24 Project: A Bold Shift After Enola Holmes and Adolescence
Millie Bobby Brown and David Harbour, best known for their roles in Netflix’s *Stranger Things*, are reuniting for a new A24-produced spy thriller written by *Enola Holmes* and *Adolescence* scribe Jack Thorne. The project, announced June 26, 2026, marks a pivot for both actors into high-stakes espionage, with production slated to begin in London by late 2027. This move could reshape global entertainment law contracts, amplify demand for UK production incentives, and test Netflix’s ability to compete with A24’s indie prestige brand.
Why This Reunion Matters: A Legal and Economic Landmark for UK Productions
Brown and Harbour’s collaboration is more than a star-driven project—it’s a strategic play in an industry where talent-driven IP and production hubs dictate success. The spy genre, once dominated by Hollywood, is now a battleground for European studios vying for tax breaks, skilled crews, and global distribution.
London’s production sector stands to gain. The UK government’s 2025 Film Tax Relief scheme, offering up to 25% cash rebates for qualifying productions, has already attracted major franchises like *Dune* and *The Batman*. A24’s involvement—known for its data-driven, audience-first approach—could push this project to claim even higher rebates by leveraging the UK’s cultural test, which prioritizes diverse storytelling.
“This isn’t just another Netflix-A24 collab. It’s a test case for how studios can navigate the new UK production ecosystem—where tax incentives, union agreements, and talent contracts are all in flux.”
How the Spy Genre Shift Could Reshape Talent Contracts
The spy thriller’s rise isn’t accidental. Data from The Numbers shows the genre’s global box office grew 18% year-over-year in 2025, driven by franchises like *Mission: Impossible* and *John Wick*. For actors, this means renegotiating contracts to include genre-specific residuals—a clause increasingly demanded by SAG-AFTRA members after the 2023 strike.
Brown and Harbour’s agents are already positioning them as “genre-flexible” stars, a tactic that could set a precedent for younger talent. “The days of actors being pigeonholed are over,” says Sophie Laurent, head of the UK Actors’ Association. “This project proves you can move from sci-fi to espionage without losing your fanbase.”
For studios, this means contracts must now include “genre transition clauses”, allowing for creative pivots without legal disputes. Firms like Loeb & Loeb (which advised on *Stranger Things*’ international distribution) are already drafting templates to address this.
The A24-Netflix Partnership: A Blueprint for Future Co-Productions?
A24’s reputation for low-budget, high-impact films (*Hereditary*, *The Lighthouse*) clashes with Netflix’s global streaming dominance. Their collaboration on this spy thriller could redefine how studios share creative control and revenue.
| Studio | Strengths | Weaknesses | Potential Synergy |
|---|---|---|---|
| A24 | Prestige indie brand, strong festival cachet, data-driven marketing | Limited global distribution infrastructure | Netflix’s international reach + A24’s creative control = hybrid model |
| Netflix | Global subscriber base (267M+), algorithmic content recommendation | Criticism for “quantity over quality” in originals | A24’s curatorial approach could elevate Netflix’s prestige content |
Legal experts warn this partnership may face scrutiny over Netflix’s 2024 antitrust investigation in the EU. If regulators deem this collaboration an attempt to monopolize talent-driven IP, it could trigger merger reviews under the Digital Markets Act.
“The EU is watching how Netflix and A24 structure this deal. If they’re seen as colluding to lock in top talent, expect a Gatehouse-style probe into fair competition.”
What Happens Next: Production Logistics and Talent Demand
With filming set to begin in London, the project will test the city’s ability to handle simultaneous large-scale productions. The UK’s Production Guild reports a 40% increase in studio bookings since 2024, but crew shortages persist.
Solutions are emerging:
- Staffing agencies like Crewbase are partnering with UK unions to fast-track crew training.
- Local production hubs in East London (e.g., Shepperton Studios) are offering tax incentives for crews.
- Legal firms specializing in entertainment law are advising studios to include force majeure clauses in contracts to mitigate delays.
The project’s budget—estimated at $60–80 million—will also strain London’s hotel and catering sectors. Local businesses are already preparing for a surge in demand.
The Long-Term Impact: A Shift in Global Talent Hubs
Brown and Harbour’s move to London could accelerate the UK’s rise as a post-Hollywood talent magnet. The city already hosts 30% of Europe’s film production, but this project may push it to compete with New York’s 30% tax credit and Toronto’s 20% rebate.
For actors, this means:
- Higher residuals from UK productions (thanks to cultural test compliance).
- Stronger SAG-AFTRA protections under UK labor laws.
- Easier dual citizenship pathways for international talent (a growing trend post-Brexit).
For studios, the risks are clear: Over-reliance on London could expose them to Brexit-related supply chain disruptions. Firms like Dentons are advising clients to diversify shoots across Ireland and Manchester.
The Bigger Picture: What This Means for the Industry
Brown and Harbour’s spy thriller isn’t just entertainment—it’s a case study in how talent, tax policy, and streaming wars collide. The project’s success could:
- Push Netflix to increase UK originals, countering A24’s indie prestige.
- Force IMDb to update genre classifications for hybrid actors.
- Accelerate WIPO’s negotiations on global talent IP rights.
One thing is certain: the entertainment industry’s center of gravity is shifting. For professionals navigating this change—whether in entertainment law, production staffing, or tax-incentive consulting—this project is a wake-up call.
Final thought: The spy genre thrives on secrets. But in this case, the biggest secret was already out in the open—London was waiting. And now, the world is watching to see if the city can deliver.