A psychological thriller titled Pumping Black began filming in the French Alps, starring Jonathan Bailey and Natalie Portman.

There is no announced release date yet; the film could arrive as early as late 2027 if production stays on track.

Directed by Mimi Cave from a screenplay by Haley Hope Bartels, the story centers on Taylor Mace, a 35-year-old professional cyclist nearing retirement who is drawn into dark schemes by Andrea Lathe, a driven doctor.

Amazon MGM secured international rights for just over $20 million, with Anton fully financing the project and world-wide sales and US co-representation by CAA.

Bartels’ screenplay ranked second on the 2022 Black List of favored unproduced scripts.

New cast members announced include Daniel Quinn-Toye, Lucas Lynggaard Tønnesen, Arieh Worthalter, and Tony Hale, joining previously announced Lukas Gage and Alex Akpobome.

The ensemble features Tony Hale, Arieh Worthalter, Lucas Lynggaard Tønnesen, Daniel Quinn-Toye, Lukas Gage, and Alex Akpobome, with roles for the newcomers not yet disclosed.

Cave’s previous horror-thriller work, such as Fresh and Holland, is highlighted, underscoring a focus on intense subcultures and unraveling protagonists.

The narrative explores ambition, aging, and the pressure to win amid cycling’s doping history, drawing early comparisons to Whiplash and Black Swan.

Filming runs through early December, with production in the European Alps to reflect the sport’s demanding terrain.

Bailey’s rising stardom and Portman’s Oscar-winning pedigree are emphasized; Portman is producing via MountainA, marking Bailey and Portman’s first on-screen collaboration.

Location shooting in the French Alps aims to leverage challenging terrain and scenic routes associated with the Tour de France.