Black Bear’s burgeoning theatrical distribution operation continues to expand its portfolio with the announcement of the upcoming film Shelter, starring Jason Statham. The action-thriller is slated to debut in theaters on January 30, 2026.
Directed by Ric Roman Waugh, known for his work on Greenland and Angel Has Fallen, Shelter promises to engage audiences with a gripping narrative penned by Ward Perry. Joining Statham in the cast are Bodhi Rae, praised for her performance in the film festival favorite Hamnet, Naomi Ackie from Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody, and veteran actor Bill Nighy.
The film’s storyline revolves around a reclusive man residing in a secluded house by the sea. His life takes a dramatic turn when he saves a young girl from drowning amidst a fierce storm, an act of heroism that inadvertently triggers a violent chain of events, compelling him to confront his past decisions.
Black Bear’s U.S. distribution arm, which launched in July, aims to release up to a dozen films annually, showcasing a mix of filmmaker-driven projects and mainstream action and genre titles, including Shelter. “Jason is an icon who continues to be at the top of his game,” commented Benjamin Kramer, Black Bear’s U.S. distribution president. He added, “Collaborating with Ric—another significant force in the action genre—along with an exceptional cast and an engrossing story, sets the stage for a must-see cinematic event.”
Additionally, Black Bear’s upcoming slate features Christy, a drama led by Sydney Sweeney, which is set for release on November 7, following its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, along with the romantic-thriller Tuner by Oscar-winning filmmaker Daniel Roher, starring Leo Woodall and Dustin Hoffman, scheduled for next year.
Shelter is being produced by Black Bear Pictures, Punch Palace Pictures, CineMachine, and Stampede Ventures. Involved in production are Statham, alongside Black Bear’s John Friedberg, Brendon Boyea, Greg Silverman, and Jon Berg. Executive producers include Black Bear’s Teddy Schwarzman, Michael Heimler, Andrew Golov, Mike Shanks, Waugh, Rachael Cole, Volodymyr Artemenko, Yevgen Stupka, Macdara Kelleher, Victor Hadida, Gideon Yu, and Elizabeth A. Bell.
Based on reporting by Hollywood Reporter. Read the full story at Hollywood Reporter.