Colin Farrell is set to lead the upcoming action-thriller Ordained, produced under the Russo brothers’ AGBO banner. The film adapts the comic series of the same name from Bad Idea Comics, created by writers Robert Venditti and Raul Allen, along with artists Antonio Del Hoyo and Trevor Hairsine. Farrell will portray Father Roy Craig, a priest whose life takes a violent turn after performing last rites on a mob boss who miraculously survives and confesses his crimes to him.
The screenplay is penned by Derek Kolstad, renowned for creating the globally successful John Wick franchise, promising an intense blend of action and thriller elements. Though the director has not yet been announced, the Russo brothers are backing the project with their well-established production company AGBO, known for high-profile films such as those within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Farrell will also produce Ordained alongside his sister, Claudine Farrell, through their Chapel Place production company.
The story centers on Father Roy Craig, who becomes a target of hitmen, corrupt law enforcement, and gangsters aiming to silence him after the mob boss’s confession. However, Father Roy’s concealed violent past means he is a formidable adversary, setting the stage for a gritty narrative that explores themes of redemption, faith, and survival under siege.
Context and Industry Significance
Ordained represents the continuing trend of comic book adaptations expanding beyond traditional superhero narratives into more diverse genres like action thrillers with complex protagonists. The involvement of Derek Kolstad aligns with this shift, given his expertise in crafting stylish, high-octane storytelling with morally ambiguous characters, as showcased in the John Wick series.
The Russo brothers’ AGBO has cultivated a reputation for taking innovative approaches to genre storytelling, blending blockbuster appeal with character-driven narratives. Their backing of Ordained signals confidence in the project’s potential to attract both comic book fans and wider audiences, especially as streaming services and theatrical markets remain fiercely competitive in securing distinctive content.
Farrell’s participation as both lead actor and producer adds further weight. His recent work, including his role in Netflix’s Ballad of a Small Player, has reinforced his versatility and critical acclaim. This project aligns with his trajectory toward more complex, genre-bending roles that explore darker, nuanced characters.
Release and Reception
The first issue of the Ordained comic will be published on December 10, building anticipation among comic and thriller enthusiasts alike. While no release date for the film has been announced, the collaboration between these key creative forces suggests production momentum in the near term.
Industry insiders highlight the project as a potential standout given its narrative depth and strong creative pedigree. According to Variety, the fusion of Kolstad’s writing and the Russo brothers’ producing expertise could yield a fresh and compelling addition to the action-thriller genre.
Looking Ahead
With Ordained, the film industry continues to reflect evolving audience appetites for complex, character-driven action stories rooted in layered source material. The convergence of Farrell’s acting prowess, Kolstad’s scriptwriting, and AGBO’s production backing positions the film as a culturally and commercially significant project on the horizon.
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