Sean Penn to Direct Film on Capitol Riot Officer

Sean Penn is set to direct a new film about a police officer involved in the January 6 Capitol riot, according to Warner Bros. The announcement was made on Tuesday. Following his celebrated role in “One Battle After Another,” Penn will direct the yet-to-be-named movie based on his own screenplay. Bradley Cooper is in discussions to star, though no official agreement has been reached.

The film is based on the experience of a real person, although specific details about the protagonist have not been disclosed. At the 2022 hearings of the House Select Committee, Penn was seen seated with Metropolitan Police officers Michael Fanone and Daniel Hodges, who were present during the Capitol attack. Fanone testified about his ordeal, describing how he was rushed to the scene, beaten, tased, and called a traitor. His assault only ceased when he mentioned having children, which led to him suffering a heart attack. Hodges provided his own account of the traumatic events.

“I was attending as just another citizen,” Penn remarked at the hearings, indicating his interest in seeing justice served.

The movie is anticipated to explore “an unexpected friendship.” Filming is slated to commence in mid-2027.

In related industry news, the U.S. Justice Department recently announced it will not oppose Paramount Skydance’s acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery. This $111 billion agreement, finalized in February, will place Warner Bros. under the management of David Ellison, CEO of Paramount, who also holds ties to former President Donald Trump. Recently, Ellison was seen at an Ultimate Fighting Championship event held at the White House.

Sean Penn’s “One Battle After Another” was recognized at the Academy Awards in March, winning the best picture title. However, Penn, who won his third Oscar for his portrayal of Col. Steven J. Lockjaw, chose not to attend the ceremony, opting instead to visit Ukraine.