Jake Gyllenhaal is heading back to the big screen in Code Black, a political thriller that’s shaping up to be a major project for Amazon MGM Studios.
The 44-year-old actor will not only star in the film, but his production company, Nine Stories, is also developing it. The film is based on a short story by Harrison Query, who is also adapting it for the screen.
Amazon MGM Studios secured the rights to Code Black with a guaranteed seven-figure deal, one of the largest ever for a short story. This comes under the first-look agreement Jake’s Nine Stories inked with the studio in 2024. That partnership has already brought titles like Road House and The Covenant to audiences, both of which saw Jake take on intense, action-driven roles.
In Code Black, Gyllenhaal plays the top heart surgeon in the United States. His character is urgently flown to Washington D.C. for a critical, high-stakes operation. But the mission quickly spirals into chaos. He’s caught in a trap that threatens not just his own life, but the safety of his family and the future of the nation. It’s part medical thriller, part political chess match, an ideal mix for fans of tension-packed cinema.
Behind the scenes, the production is stacked with heavyweight talent. In addition to Jake and Nine Stories’ Josh McLaughlin, producers in talks include Lynn Harris and Matt Reeves of 6th + Idaho, and Scott Glassgold from 12:01 Films. With that lineup, the film is clearly being treated as a top-tier release.
Jake’s recent projects with Amazon MGM have been well-received, and he’s clearly found a rhythm with the studio. Speaking about the deal, he said, “I’ve worked with Amazon MGM on two films this past year, and they’ve been a wonderful partner both times. Their dedication to filmmaking is contagious, and I so admire their commitment to fans all over the world. I’m thrilled to formalize what is already a fruitful collaboration, especially on the heels of Road House’s outstanding debut.”
Julie Rapaport, who heads up film production and development at Amazon MGM Studios, echoed that sentiment. “Jake is a one-of-a-kind talent whose passion and eye for filmmaking makes him a powerful storyteller both in front of the camera and behind the scenes. Following the record-breaking success of Road House, we couldn’t imagine a better time to cement our relationship.”
With Code Black, Gyllenhaal is once again blending high-stakes action with emotionally grounded storytelling. And with Amazon MGM Studios behind it, the film is already generating serious buzz. No release date has been announced yet, but expect Code Black to be a major title on everyone’s radar once production gets underway.
Jamie Wells has a knack for getting the inside scoop on Hollywood’s biggest stars and up-and-coming talent. With a sharp eye for industry trends and an ear for viral moments, Jamie covers everything from red-carpet events to behind-the-scenes drama in movies, TV, and celebrity culture.
