Lorcan Finnegan's Nicholas Cage-starring film The Surfer acquired by Lionsgate

The North American rights to Irish director Lorcan Finnegan’s The Surfer - a psychological thriller starring Nicolas Cage – have been acquired by Lionsgate and Roadside Attractions.

Scheduled for a 2025 release, the film tells the tale of a man who returns to a picturesque beach from his childhood to surf with his son, before, according to the official logline, “he is humiliated by a group of powerful locals and drawn into a conflict that rises with the punishing heat of the summer and pushes him right to his breaking point.”

Shot and set in Australia, the film also stars Julian McMahon, Nic Cassim, Miranda Tapsell, Alexander Bertrand, Justin Rosniak, Rahel Romahn, Finn Little and Charlotte Maggi.

"Lorcan's movie is a stunning visual experience with an incredible palette, coupled with Nicolas Cage at his absolute best," said Lauren Bixby, SVP, Acquisitions and Co-Productions, Lionsgate Motion Picture Group. "We could not be more proud to bring this film to theatres."

The Surfer was written by Dubliner Thomas Martin, who’s previous credits include Tin Sar, Ripper Street and Raw. Fellow Dublin native Finnegan meanwhile is known for his directorial work on features like Nocebo, Without Name and Vivarium.