Joel Courtney (“Super 8,” “The Kissing Booth” franchise) will star in and produce “Echo,” a psychological thriller marking the feature directorial debut of popular TikTok creator Zac Stracener.
Stracener — who boasts 1.3 million followers on the short-form video platform — also wrote the independent film, which is described as “a character-driven thriller that dives deep into the complex landscape of military veterans,” according to its synopsis. “Echo” will mark the first producing credit for Courtney and continues he and Stracener’s creative collaboration, with the duo already co-hosting film podcast “The Long Cut.”
“Echo” will serve as the debut feature for Stracener’s production banner Carousel Films, alongside producer and casting director Briana Frapart (“Cut Your Teeth,” “Somnium”). Executive producers include Chris Frederick, Alex Moeller, Joshua Azran, Lorenzo Abbatiello, OneBridge Data Solutions and Sumax Properties.
Stracener’s short film, “Forever Sleep,” was shortlisted for the young director award at the 2023 Cannes Lions Festival and he was named on TikTok’s inaugural Showbiz List in 2022, which highlights creators making waves in the entertainment industry. His TikTok account, which focuses on mental health awareness with a cinematic touch, has amassed millions of views online and he has also worked with brands including Jockey, Microsoft, Liquid Death, Nascar and The Northface.
“We are thrilled to launch Carousel Films with Zac’s gripping script and to have Joel on board both in front of and behind the camera,” said Jake Shull, co-founder and producer of Carousel Films. “To move forward independently with a story this powerful is a testament to the team we’ve assembled. We look forward to sharing more when the time is right.”
Casting is currently underway, with principal photography to begin later this year.
Courtney is repped by Authentic and Gersh. Legal representation for “Echo” is handled by Ashley Reddy of AR Entertainment Law.
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