Halina Reijn, the director behind critically acclaimed films like Bodies, Bodies, Bodies and Babygirl, has tapped singer-songwriter Gracie Abrams for her next project, please. This marks a meaningful shift for abrams, who is set to make her acting debut with the A24-distributed film.
The news arrives as Abrams continues to solidify her position as a rising force in the music industry. Her Wikipedia page now includes a filmography section, reflecting this exciting new chapter in her career. But Abrams’ artistic lineage runs deep, stemming from a family steeped in filmmaking tradition.
A Legacy of Storytelling: The Abrams Family
Gracie Abrams isn’t just a talented musician; she’s part of a filmmaking dynasty. Her father is the renowned J.J. Abrams, the creative force behind blockbuster franchises like Mission: Impossible, Star Wars, and Star Trek, as well as films like Super 8. Her grandfather, Gerald W. Abrams, boasts an impressive career as an Emmy Award-nominated producer. Similarly, her grandmother, Carol Abrams, is a Peabody Award-winning producer, demonstrating a multi-generational commitment to visual storytelling. Despite this powerful legacy, Abrams initially forged her own path in music, deliberately distancing herself from the family business.
From Eras Tour Opener to Silver Screen Star
Abrams’ decision to pursue music has proven remarkably accomplished. The 26-year-old has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase, earning two Grammy Award nominations – Best New Artist in 2024 and Best Pop Duo/Group Performance in 2025 for her collaboration with Taylor Swift.She served as an opening act on Swift’s record-breaking Eras Tour, and recently completed a successful headlining tour of her own, with performances at iconic venues like Madison Square Garden and Red Rocks Amphitheatre.This trajectory demonstrates her ability to connect with audiences on a large scale, a skill that will undoubtedly translate to her acting debut.
A24: A Haven for Musician-Actors
please is slated for distribution by A24, a production company increasingly known for its willingness to embrace artists from diverse backgrounds, including musicians venturing into film. A24’s recent projects showcase this trend.Tyler, the Creator starred alongside timothée Chalamet in Marty Supreme, and the company is set to release The Moment, a mockumentary starring Charli XCX that offers a satirical look at pop stardom. Other A24 projects featuring musicians include spike Lee’s Highest to Lowest, starring ASAP Rocky alongside ice Spice and Jensen McRae, and Sky Ferreira’s contribution to the soundtrack of Babygirl. This pattern suggests A24 is actively cultivating a space where musicians can explore their creative potential beyond music.
Embracing Vulnerability and Artistic Independence
Abrams’ journey to the screen wasn’t without its internal conflict. In a 2023 interview with Cyndi Lauper for Rolling Stone’s Musicians on Musicians series,Abrams revealed her initial reluctance to share her musical aspirations with her parents. “I was very private about the fact that I was playing music,” she explained. “I wanted nothing to do with any of that. I just felt like my body shut down if I was playing or singing something I wrote. And I woudl hear someone walk by, I would stop.” This vulnerability speaks to her desire for artistic independence and a need to establish her identity outside of her family’s legacy. It also highlights the pressure that can come with a famous surname, and Abrams’ determination to succeed on her own terms.
What to expect from Please
Details surrounding Please remain scarce, but the involvement of Halina Reijn and A24 suggests a film that will be both thought-provoking and visually striking. Reijn’s previous work, especially Bodies, Bodies, Bodies and Babygirl, is known for its sharp wit, complex characters, and exploration of contemporary social dynamics. With Abrams taking on her first acting role, audiences can anticipate a fresh and compelling performance from the multi-talented artist. The film promises to be a fascinating addition to A24’s growing catalog of innovative and boundary-pushing cinema.
