AceShowbiz - Barracuda is an upcoming action thriller that pairs Marvel star Anthony Mackie with former X-Men actress Dafne Keen in a gripping story of survival and escape. Fresh off his role as the new Captain America in 2025's Captain America: Brave New World, Mackie takes on the role of Karl, a haunted ex-smuggler, in this high-stakes film directed by Neil Burger, known for his work on Limitless.

The movie's plot centers around Karl, who launches a daring rescue mission to save Jodie, played by Keen, a kidnapped teenage girl. Set against the backdrop of Mexico, the film follows their perilous journey as they evade relentless criminals in a desperate bid to reach the U.S. border. The story is framed as a “Lone Wolf and Cub” dynamic, with Karl as the seasoned protector and Jodie as the vulnerable but determined youth.

The synopsis reveals the tension and action that drive the narrative: "When Karl (Mackie), a former smuggler with a haunted past, storms a nightclub in Mexico to rescue Jodie (Keen), a kidnapped teenage girl, he ignites a chain reaction of blood and bullets that burns across 100 miles of deadly roads toward the U.S. border." The stakes escalate when Karl kills the brother of a ruthless club owner and steals a prized 1973 Plymouth Barracuda, triggering a relentless pursuit through the desert.

Director Neil Burger expressed his enthusiasm for the project, praising the screenplay by Adam Mason and Simon Boyes. He described the film as a “non-stop action thriller” that “never lets up,” promising an “out-of-control, relentless mayhem in a real-time sprint to the border.” Burger also mentioned his excitement about collaborating with Mackie, aiming to create a visually innovative and thrilling cinematic experience, continuing his tradition of inventive filmmaking seen in Limitless and Inheritance.

Producers Arianne Fraser and Delphine Perrier also offered strong endorsements for the film and its lead actor. Fraser highlighted Burger’s talent for striking visual style and pacing, calling Barracuda a showcase of his visionary skills. Perrier emphasized Mackie’s unique qualities, stating he brings the “perfect blend of cunning, physical prowess and deeply human vulnerability” necessary for the role of Karl.

While Mackie prepares to begin filming Barracuda, he is also completing post-production on his next Marvel Cinematic Universe project, Avengers: Doomsday. Additionally, he has a role lined up in David Mamet’s drama Speed-the-plow, indicating a busy and diverse slate ahead.

Keen, who made her screen debut as the young mutant in the 2017 blockbuster Logan, returns to an action-oriented role with Barracuda. She previously reprised her role in Deadpool & Wolverine and is set to star in the upcoming sex comedy The Marshmallow Experiment as well as the horror film Night Comes. Her casting alongside Mackie continues her trajectory in intense and dramatic roles.

For Neil Burger, Barracuda represents a potential critical rebound after his 2025 thriller Inheritance and 2023 mystery drama The Marsh King’s Daughter received lukewarm responses. Burger’s most acclaimed work remains 2006’s The Illusionist, and this new film aims to recapture his earlier critical success with a fresh, adrenaline-fueled narrative.

Currently, Barracuda has commenced filming and is anticipated to deliver a fast-paced, visually striking thriller. However, an official release date has not been announced. Fans of Mackie, Keen, and high-octane action films will be watching closely for updates on this promising collaboration.