A slate of prominent industry figures has joined forces to executive produce “The Present Times,” an upcoming tragicomedy centered on the world of paparazzi photography. The film will feature acclaimed screenwriter Eric Roth, known for his work on “Forrest Gump” and “Dune: Part One,” alongside producer Brian Kavanaugh-Jones and the production company Dirty Films, which is run by actor Cate Blanchett and Andrew Upton.
Directed by Noah Stratton-Twine, the feature follows two jaded photographers named Roy and Ian, portrayed by Daniel Weyman and standup comedian Nick Helm respectively. The characters navigate the fallout from their invasive profession when they encounter both a morally questionable scheme and supernatural forces. The supporting cast includes notable performers such as Paul Kaye, Raffey Cassidy, and Emma McDonald, among others.
Stratton-Twine has described the project as a tribute to British cinema’s tradition of character-driven storytelling and the diverse landscape of London as a filming location. Principal photography concluded in May in the capital city. The film marks Stratton-Twine’s third directorial effort and reunites him with cinematographer Murray Zev Cohen, with whom he has previously collaborated on multiple projects.