Angelina Jolie Reunites with Doug Liman for Spy Thriller The Initiative

Angelina Jolie is set to star in a new spy thriller titled The Initiative, reuniting with Doug Liman, the director of Mr. & Mrs. Smith, marking a return to the action-thriller genre that defined much of her career. The film, described as Training Day in the world of spycraft, features Jolie as Bright, a rogue master spy, and centers on her complex relationship with a new agent, Charlie, who is uncertain whether she is protecting or threatening him. The screenplay is written by F. Scott Frazier, with producers Joe Roth and Jeff Kirschenbaum, who previously collaborated with Jolie on Maleficent. Universal Pictures is reportedly close to acquiring the project, with production planned to begin in early 2026. Jolie's recent work includes the Maria Callas biopic Maria and a role in Marvel's Eternals, while she has upcoming projects such as the French film Couture and an action film co-starring Halle Berry. This new film continues Jolie's return to prominent acting roles after a period of fewer appearances.