Charlize Theron and director Baltasar Kormákur are reuniting at Universal to produce an action thriller titled "Six Clean Kills" [1].
The project marks a return to collaboration for the pair following their work on the film "Apex." By adapting an unpublished manuscript, the team is leveraging a fresh narrative source to expand their footprint in the high-stakes action genre.
The film is based on an unpublished novel written by Stan Parish [1], [3]. While the specific plot details of the novel remain under wraps, the production is positioned as a thriller. Theron is confirmed as a producer for the project and may also star in the lead role [1], [2].
Universal will serve as the studio for the production [1], [3]. The announcement of the partnership occurred on May 8, 2026 [2], [3]. The title of the project explicitly references the number six [3].
Theron has increasingly moved into producing roles through her own production ventures, often selecting projects that blend physical intensity with complex character studies. Kormákur, known for his visceral directing style, previously collaborated with Theron to create a tense, contained environment in "Apex."
This new venture aims to bring Parish's unpublished work to a global audience through Universal's distribution network. The production team has not yet released a filming schedule, or a formal cast list, beyond Theron's potential involvement.
“Charlize Theron and director Baltasar Kormákur are reuniting at Universal”
The collaboration signals a strategic move by Theron to control the development of intellectual property from the ground up by adapting unpublished material. By reuniting with Kormákur, the production secures a proven creative shorthand, reducing the risk associated with the high budgets of studio-backed action thrillers.
