'Sons of Anarchy' Star Steps Behind the Camera for Heist Drama — Here’s What We Know So Far

Theo Rossi, best known for roles in Sons of Anarchy, Luke Cage, and Emily the Criminal, is making his directorial debut with a new action-heist feature titled Shell Game. Co-written by Rossi alongside Tommy DeNucci and James Crewe, the film follows a fractured crew of thieves who reunite for one high-risk job that promises either a life-changing payday or total ruin. No pressure, then.

But Shell Game isn’t just another heist caper. According to Rossi, the film explores how relationships survive — and often don’t — under pressure.

"Some of my favourite films ever made have been about how relationships navigate and are tested in the underworld of society," he told Deadline. "This film gives us the opportunity to explore that even more through these deeply flawed characters." One gets the feeling this won’t be all guns and getaways.

Rossi is also producing the film, alongside Chris Dent, Nicholas Carmona, and Crewe. Casting is currently underway, with Deanna Brigidi and Andrea Bunker handling the search. Filming is expected to begin this autumn in Texas and New Mexico. For those keeping an eye on Rossi’s career, this move behind the camera follows recent performances in Carry-On (Netflix), HBO’s The Penguin, and an upcoming indie drama Come with Me, where he reunites with Sons of Anarchy co-star Ron Perlman.

So, what happens when a character actor with a knack for intensity takes full creative control? With a premise like this and personal investment behind the lens, Shell Game might just deal a hand worth watching.