Ella Purnell lands next lead movie role in “bold” new thriller about “dark family secret”

Ella Purnell, known for her roles in Sweetpea and Yellowjackets, is set to star in a new thriller called The Return of Stanley Atwell. The film is being produced by Hera Pictures, the company that made Hamnet, and is being described as a daring and thought-provoking story. She will be acting alongside Nicholas Galitzine.

Brian Welsh, known for directing the BBC Three film What It Feels Like for a Girl, wrote and directed this new film. The original concept came from Academy Award-winning director Steven Soderbergh, who also serves as an executive producer. Hera Pictures and John Gore Studios are also executive producers on the project.

In the movie Red, White & Royal Blue, actor Galitzine plays Stanley Atwell, who is believed to have died and is the heir to a Lord’s title and wealth.

When Atwell suddenly reappears at his family home after being held captive for ten years, everything falls into disarray. His sister, Beatrice, has been battling to get her hands on his inheritance, and a friend, Pamela (Purnell), is using his shocking return—and a hidden family secret—to steal the Atwell fortune for herself.

According to Variety, the movie tells a story of intense relationships, hidden betrayals, and family secrets coming to light on a wealthy estate. As the truth emerges, the reputation of the Atwell family begins to crumble.

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Just how much will each family member do to safeguard their money and position? And what’s the real reason Stanley Atwell has come back?

Welsh praised Ella Purnell’s acting, noting her remarkable talent for portraying characters who are vulnerable, funny, and threatening.

Ella is a remarkably talented actor, and we’re excited she’ll be starring alongside Nicholas in The Return of Stanley Atwell. It’s a fantastic pairing, and I can’t wait to see her unique take on the character.

John Gore, who founded John Gore Studios, praised Ella Purnell, saying she has a captivating presence on screen, a strong ability to convey emotion, and a natural talent for making her characters feel real and believable.

We’re very excited to welcome her to the team. We’re also happy to be working with Hera Pictures and Brian Welsh on this daring and thought-provoking project.

Purnell was last seen on the small screen in Sweetpea, which is returning for a second season.

Earlier this month, Sky released the first images from the upcoming second season, but hasn’t announced when it will be available yet.

In season two, Rhiannon is dealing with a lot: a new job with more responsibility, a tempting new relationship, and a dangerous killer who’s imitating her past crimes. As the body count rises, she starts to wonder if her ex-boyfriend, AJ, was right about her – is she truly a monster?

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2026-03-29 19:49