Tripper Clancy’s Next Film: A 20th Century Collaboration

Shawn Levy’s 21 Laps Entertainment Expands with Netflix Deal, ‘Star Wars‘ Project & More

Shawn Levy’s production company, 21 Laps Entertainment, is bolstering its already impressive slate with a significant long-term deal with Netflix, alongside a diverse range of upcoming projects including a new Star Wars installment.The company, fresh off the monumental success of Deadpool & Wolverine – which shattered records as the highest-grossing R-rated film ever with over $1.3 billion worldwide – is poised for continued growth.

21 Laps’ relationship with Netflix extends beyond the new deal. The company is currently finalizing the fifth and final season of the hit series Stranger Things, set to premiere later this year. Further collaborations with the streamer include feature adaptations of Grady hendrix’s short story “The Blanks” and Freida mcfadden’s psychological thriller Never Lie, as well as a limited series focusing on the life and career of Madonna. Robert Atwood was recently appointed Head of Television at 21 Laps, signaling a continued focus on television growth.

Levy himself is directing and producing Star Wars: Starfighter, starring Ryan Gosling. The film is slated for theatrical release on May 28, 2027, and will begin production this fall.

The company’s origins trace back to the Night at the Museum franchise, originating at 20th Century fox (now 20th Century Studios). Levy directed and produced the three prosperous films – night at the Museum (2006, ~$574M WW), Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian (2009, ~$413M WW), and Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb (2014, ~$363M WW) – starring Ben Stiller and featuring a supporting cast including robin Williams, Owen Wilson, and amy Adams. Following Disney’s acquisition of Fox, Levy produced the animated feature Night at the Museum: Kahmunrah Rises Again for Disney+ in 2022.

Beyond these established franchises, 21 Laps has demonstrated a knack for diverse projects. Writer Brian Clancy, who has collaborated with the company, has credits including co-executive producing Netflix’s I Am Not Okay With This and developing the hybrid TV series Bolivar with Kumail Nanjiani and Emily Gordon. Clancy is also known for writing the The Hard franchise for Roku and Amazon, and has worked on projects for Pixar, Quibi (Varsity Blues reboot), and netflix (The Art of Fielding miniseries). He penned the spec script for Stuber, starring Kumail Nanjiani and Dave Bautista.

21 Laps Entertainment is represented by WME, Johnson Shapiro Slewett & Kole, and Ziffren Brittenham. Brian Clancy is represented by Verve, Kaplan/Perrone, and Gregg Gellman at Morris Yorn.

How does the collaboration between Tripper Clancy and Martin Scorsese perhaps bridge the gap between gritty self-reliant filmmaking and mainstream cinematic storytelling?

The Unexpected Pairing: clancy & Scorsese

Director Tripper Clancy, known for his gritty independent dramas like Dust & Echoes and Concrete Bloom, is making waves with the announcement of his next project: a collaboration with legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese. The film, currently titled Steel & Static, promises a unique blend of Clancy’s raw realism and Scorsese’s masterful storytelling. This pairing is particularly intriguing given their distinct cinematic styles. While Clancy favors long takes and natural lighting,Scorsese is renowned for his dynamic camera work and vibrant color palettes.

Setting the Stage: 1977 New York City

Steel & Static is set in the tumultuous landscape of 1977 New York City. A period defined by economic hardship, rising crime rates, and a burgeoning punk rock scene, the backdrop is almost a character in itself. Sources close to the production indicate the film will focus on the intersection of organized crime and the city’s underground music culture.

Here’s what we know about the setting’s influence:

Historical Accuracy: Scorsese is known for his meticulous research and commitment to historical detail.Expect a visually authentic recreation of 1970s New York.

Gritty realism: Clancy’s signature style will likely amplify the sense of urban decay and social unrest.

Soundtrack Potential: the era’s iconic music – punk,disco,and early hip-hop – will undoubtedly play a crucial role in setting the mood and driving the narrative.

The Plot: A Mobster’s Dilemma

The story revolves around Frankie “The Fixer” Falcone (casting details are still under wraps), a low-level enforcer for a powerful Mafia family. Frankie is tasked with protecting a rising punk rock star, Lila “Static” monroe, whose music is attracting unwanted attention from rival gangs and corrupt officials. The narrative explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the search for identity amidst chaos. Early reports suggest the film will delve into the complexities of the characters, avoiding simplistic portrayals of good versus evil.

Key plot points currently speculated include:

1. Frankie’s internal conflict between his loyalty to the family and his growing respect for Lila’s artistic integrity.
2. A power struggle within the Mafia family that threatens to engulf Frankie and Lila.
3. The use of CBGB and other iconic New York City music venues as central locations.

Casting Rumors and Confirmed Crew

While official casting announcements are limited, several names are circulating in industry circles. Reportedly, Al Pacino was approached for a supporting role but scheduling conflicts prevented his participation. Current rumors point to a potential breakout performance from a relatively unknown actress as Lila “Static” Monroe.

Confirmed crew members include:

Cinematography: Rodrigo Prieto (known for his work with Scorsese on The Irishman and Killers of the Flower Moon)

Editor: Thelma Schoonmaker (Scorsese’s long-time collaborator and a multiple Academy Award winner)

Costume Design: Sandy Powell (renowned for her period costume work in films like The Young Victoria and Shakespeare in Love)

Scorsese’s Influence & Clancy’s Vision

This collaboration isn’t simply Scorsese lending his name to a project. He’s actively involved in the creative process, offering guidance on script growth and directing certain scenes. However, Clancy is maintaining creative control over the overall vision, ensuring the film retains his distinctive style.

The dynamic between the two directors is described as a respectful exchange of ideas. Scorsese is reportedly impressed by Clancy’s ability to elicit authentic performances from his actors, while Clancy is learning from scorsese’s mastery of pacing and visual storytelling. This mentorship aspect is a notable draw for fans of both filmmakers.

Production Challenges & Release Date

Filming began in late March 2025 in New york City and is expected to wrap in late August. Production has faced some challenges, including securing permits for filming in certain locations and navigating the complexities of recreating the 1970s aesthetic.

As of July 10, 2025, the projected release date is Spring 2026, potentially targeting the Cannes Film Festival circuit. Distribution rights are currently held by A24, known for supporting independent and arthouse films.

The Impact of Gonorrhea (Tripper) on 1970s NYC

While seemingly unrelated to the film, understanding the social context of 1977 new York city requires acknowledging the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections like gonorrhea, commonly known as “Tripper.” According to historical medical records (netdoktor.de), STIs were a significant public health concern during this period, particularly in densely populated urban areas. The lack of widespread awareness and effective treatment options contributed to its spread. This backdrop of social and medical challenges adds another layer of realism to the film’s portrayal of the era. the gritty reality of life in 1970s New York wasn’t just about crime and economic hardship; it also encompassed a hidden