Russell Crowe stars in the sports drama film Beast directed by Tyler Atkins
- Russell Crowe stars as former mixed martial arts legend Patton James in the sports drama Beast, which secured an 81 percent approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on...
- The film follows Patton James, a former MMA star who now works as a professional fisherman.
- Alongside Crowe, the main cast includes Daniel MacPherson and Luke Hemsworth.
Russell Crowe stars as former mixed martial arts legend Patton James in the sports drama Beast, which secured an 81 percent approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 31 critical reviews, averaging 6.0 out of 10. Directed by Tyler Atkins, the international production was filmed across the United States and Australia, featuring a narrative centered on professional combat sports.
Plot and Production Background
The film follows Patton James, a former MMA star who now works as a professional fisherman. James is forced back into the sport to protect his brother when danger arises. With assistance from his former trainer Sammy, James prepares for a final challenge against Xavier Grau, the reigning champion of ONE Championship. Originally announced under the working title The Beast in Me, the project was written by Russell Crowe and David Frigerio. Production duties were handled by David Frigerio, John Schwarz, Michael Schwarz, Jamie Arscott, and Tim O’Hair. The film is a collaboration involving several production entities, including Deepwater Films, Black Pearl Productions, Broken Open Pictures, Storm Alley Entertainment, Armagh Films, and One Championship.
Cast and Collaborative Filming
Alongside Crowe, the main cast includes Daniel MacPherson and Luke Hemsworth. The production also features Mojean Aria, Kelly Gale, George Burgess, Bren Foster, Saphira Moran, and Australian singer-songwriter Amy Shark in her feature film debut. Filming took place in Bangkok, utilizing the Impact Arena as the backdrop for central fighting sequences. Production teams captured footage during the ONE 170 event featuring Tawanchai versus Superbon 2 on Jan. 24, 2025, with additional shooting continuing throughout that week.
Global Release Schedule
Grindstone Entertainment Group acquired the United States distribution rights for the film in October 2025. PLAION Pictures managed the Italian distribution arrangements, while Rialto Distribution handled the Australian release. North American audiences received theatrical releases starting April 10, 2026. Australian cinemas debuted the film on April 23, 2026, and Italian theaters scheduled their release for Oct. 1, 2026.
