What to Expect from Jonathan Bailey and Natalie Portman's Thrilling New Film 'Pumping Black'

Hollywood stars Jonathan Bailey and Natalie Portman are set to collaborate in the psychological thriller 'Pumping Black'. Directed by Mimi Cave, the film explores ambition and obsession in the competitive world of cycling. As Bailey's character faces the harsh realities of aging in a youth-dominated sport, he becomes entangled in a web of risks and hidden truths under Portman's mentorship. With a talented production team and a gripping storyline, 'Pumping Black' promises to be an exhilarating cinematic experience. Don't miss out on this exciting project!

By Narendra Chaudhary May 8, 2026, 18:43 IST

Hollywood Stars Unite for 'Pumping Black'

Hollywood star Jonathan Bailey is set to team up with Academy Award winner Natalie Portman for their first collaboration in the psychological thriller Pumping Black. This film explores the intense themes of ambition, power, and obsession within the world of professional cycling. Directed by Mimi Cave, known for her work on Fresh and Holland, the screenplay is penned by Haley Hope Bartels. The narrative follows 35-year-old cyclist Taylor Mace, whose career and concealed truths lead him into dangerous territories under the mentorship of the determined doctor Andrea Lathe. Produced by Stacey Sher, Cave, Sébastien Raybaud, and Portman, the film promises to deliver a gripping and energetic cinematic experience.

Stars Jonathan Bailey and Natalie Portman in 'Pumping Black'

According to reports from Variety, both Jonathan Bailey and Natalie Portman will star in Pumping Black, which is set against the backdrop of the fiercely competitive cycling industry. Directed by Mimi Cave, who gained recognition for her horror film Fresh and the upcoming Holland, this thriller is based on a script by Haley Hope Bartels.

Plot Overview of 'Pumping Black'

The film follows Taylor Mace (played by Bailey), a 35-year-old cyclist grappling with the harsh realities of aging in a sport that prizes youth and relentless ambition. Under the mentorship of the complex and driven doctor Andrea Lathe (Portman), Taylor finds himself embroiled in a world filled with escalating risks and concealed truths, where each choice carries significant weight. Producers include Stacey Sher (The Hateful Eight, Heretic), Cave, Sébastien Raybaud (Victorian Psycho), and Natalie Portman, alongside Sophie Mas of MountainA (May December, Arco). The production is fully financed by Anton and is set to begin this fall, with international sales launching at Cannes, where CAA will co-represent the U.S.

Stacey Sher expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating that Haley’s script immerses them in a visceral psychological landscape that feels both thrilling and unique. She looks forward to working with Natalie and MountainA on this ambitious project, as well as with Jonathan, whose talent makes him a perfect fit for the role. Mimi Cave’s vision is impressive, and together they aim to create something truly distinctive for audiences.

Current Projects of Jonathan Bailey and Natalie Portman

Jonathan Bailey has gained fame through Netflix’s Bridgerton and has established himself as a global box-office star with the Wicked franchise and Jurassic World Rebirth. These films have collectively grossed impressive amounts, with Rebirth earning $869 million globally and Wicked: For Good bringing in $540 million, making him the highest-grossing actor of 2025. Meanwhile, Natalie Portman is also producing the Amazon/MGM erotic thriller Verity, directed by Michael Showalter.