Initially released under the title The Policeman, the intense film featuring James Franco and Vincent Gallo has been renamed Golden State Killer. This gripping narrative about a serial killer has secured its place in the U.S. market through a deal with Lionsgate. As reported by Deadline, this true crime film is expected to attract significant attention at the Cannes Film Festival, where Lionsgate plans to showcase it for potential buyers after teaming up with Grindstone Entertainment to secure the domestic distribution rights. Currently in post-production, the film has experienced various challenges, including scrutiny from the SAG-AFTRA union due to allegations against Gallo made by several actresses.
The film’s creative team includes esteemed individuals such as Scott Clayton, Jordan Gertner, Barry Brooker, Todd Williams, and Gary A. Hirsch. Although Gertner was initially involved as both writer and director, recent updates indicate that there have been considerable shifts in the project’s management. The plot delves into the life of Gallo, who portrays the infamous Golden State Killer, Joseph James DeAngelo—a serial rapist and murderer terrorizing California since the 1970s, evading capture until his arrest in 2018. Franco takes on the role of a determined detective racing against the clock to stop DeAngelo from taking more lives.
Following a quieter phase in his career, where he continued his work on the acclaimed series The Deuce, Franco is building a resurgence, particularly in European film. He has recently completed filming an Italian-language feature entitled Joe and is also involved in a sequel to the French film Largo Winch, as well as several indie projects back in the U.S. In a revealing interview with Variety, he voiced his gratitude for the opportunities to act, stating, “I’m grateful to be working.” Yet, he expressed some frustration, highlighting that several completed films—including a controversial depiction of Fidel Castro—remain in limbo regarding their release. “I honestly don’t know what’s happening with that release,” he said, referring to the Castro portrayal.
Franco has also wrapped up work on an action film named The Razor’s Edge, featuring Tommy Lee Jones. Reflecting on his evolving career path, he exudes a sense of contemplation and calm, sharing his insights on life with, “…I think one thing that I’ve learned is just patience and to understand when the time is right that right things will come to you.” As anticipation builds for more updates, it remains to be seen what new opportunities await Franco and how audiences will react to Golden State Killer as its release approaches.
