From Tarantino’s Typewriter to Fincher’s Lens: 'Aquaman' Star Joins Cliff Booth’s Next Chapter

Netflix’s upcoming film The Adventures of Cliff Booth is quietly assembling a potent mix of talent, with one of the latest additions being a familiar face from the superhero world. The project, directed by David Fincher and written by Quentin Tarantino, marks the return of Brad Pitt as Cliff Booth — the rugged stuntman-turned-cultural icon who earned Pitt an Academy Award for Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.

While official plot details remain tightly under wraps, early whispers suggest that Booth is now operating as a Hollywood fixer — the sort of behind-the-scenes operative who handles the industry’s messiest problems with a charming shrug and maybe a well-timed punch. Joining Pitt is Aquaman and Watchmen alum Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, reportedly playing a character inspired by real-life NFL legend-turned-action-star Jim Brown, though no role has been formally confirmed.

The film’s origin story is a curious one in itself. Pitt, after receiving Tarantino’s blessing, passed the script to Fincher — his old Se7en collaborator — who was intrigued enough to take the helm. With Fincher locked in an exclusive deal with Netflix, the film naturally found its home on the streaming platform. Tarantino, meanwhile, is busy developing his final feature and a new stage play, but remains closely involved as the film's screenwriter.

As for Abdul-Mateen II, he’s becoming a fixture in both blockbuster and prestige projects alike. His upcoming slate includes Marvel’s Wonder Man, Netflix’s Man on Fire series, and By Any Means, a crime thriller opposite Mark Wahlberg. Whether his role in Cliff Booth leans gritty, charismatic, or somewhere in between, one thing’s clear — Fincher and Pitt aren’t riding alone this time.