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Zendaya is set to return to the realm of science fiction, teaming up with writer-director Alex Garland on a new A24 feature slated to begin shooting in 2027. The project is tightly under wraps, but the collaboration reunites two major creative forces at a moment when both are riding high in film and television.
Zendaya and Garland: a fresh sci-fi collaboration
Zendaya will lead an untitled sci-fi film written and directed by Alex Garland. Production is scheduled for 2027. No plot details have been released.
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This pairing reunites Zendaya with a studio that has backed some of Garland’s most striking work. A24 will produce and distribute the mystery project.
Known facts and timeline
- Shooting window: Principal photography set to start in 2027.
- Creative roles: Alex Garland will write and direct.
- Studio: A24 is attached as producer and distributor.
The studio and filmmaker have a recent history. A24 handled Garland’s science-fiction films and the studio is billing this new film as part of its continued partnership.
Where this fits in Zendaya’s recent slate
Zendaya has had a busy stretch on screen. She starred in the HBO series that made her a household name again. She also led two major 2026 releases that performed strongly at the box office.
Earlier this year she co-starred in a dark comedy alongside Robert Pattinson. That film proved a commercial hit, racking up nearly $135 million worldwide. She also appears in the upcoming Dune: Part Three, scheduled for release on Dec. 16.
Recent highlights
- Euphoria — high-profile series run that ended after three seasons.
- The Drama — black comedy that connected with audiences.
- The Odyssey and Spider-Man: Brand New Day — big 2026 releases.
Garland’s continuing relationship with A24
Alex Garland and A24 have worked together repeatedly. That collaboration spans several of Garland’s most discussed projects.
- Ex Machina — Garland’s earlier sci-fi explored AI and ethics.
- Men and Warfare — titles that show his range within genre film.
- The Elden Ring adaptation — a large-scale fantasy project now wrapped and due for release.
The videogame adaptation finished shooting on July 30 and is slated for a March 2028 release. The success of these projects has cemented Garland’s place as a modern genre auteur.
Genre expectations and influences
Fans of Garland’s previous sci-fi work will watch this new film closely. His past titles, including a Netflix feature and a well-regarded FX limited series, shaped a distinct tone. Those works blended philosophical ideas and unsettling imagery.
Return to the speculative feels natural for Garland, and Zendaya’s presence signals an actor willing to dive into complex, idea-driven material.
What this could mean for other Garland projects
The new film may shift priorities for Garland’s other plans. He co-wrote and returned to a famous zombie franchise in recent years. That follow-up was announced and praised by collaborators. But with Garland occupied by multiple A24 projects, that third installment could be delayed.
Colleagues have said scripts exist for additional entries in that franchise, but schedules are tight. Garland’s focus on big adaptations and new sci-fi makes timelines fluid.
Industry impact and audience anticipation
The announcement feeds interest in both Zendaya’s career arc and Garland’s evolving filmography. A24’s involvement heightens expectations for a distinctive tone and artful marketing.
- Fans expect atmospheric, idea-rich science fiction.
- Industry watchers note A24’s growing appetite for genre films with major stars.
- Box office observers will track how Zendaya’s star power affects commercial scope.
