Paramount+ has officially greenlit a new legal thriller titled “Discretion,” starring Nicole Kidman and Elle Fanning. This marks a significant step for the streaming platform following its acquisition by Skydance. The series has been ordered straight to production and is set to feature eight episodes.
Overview of “Discretion”
“Discretion” is a legal thriller produced by A24, written by Chandler Baker, who is also set to executive produce. The story centers on Lenny, played by Fanning, who works as a summer associate at a prestigious law firm in Dallas. She discovers a series of non-disclosure agreements that hide a troubling reality. When Lenny realizes she is bound by one of these agreements, it puts her directly at odds with the firm’s powerful female partner, Sharon, played by Kidman.
Key Personnel and Productions
- Nicole Kidman: Oscar-winning actress, known for “The Perfect Couple.”
- Elle Fanning: Emmy-nominated actress from “The Great.”
- Chandler Baker: Author of “The Husbands,” writer, and executive producer for “Discretion.”
- Susannah Grant: Academy Award-nominated writer and executive producer, known for “Unbelievable.”
Bidding War and Acquisition
A24 initially acquired the rights to Baker’s unpublished short story, navigating a competitive bidding landscape. Reports indicate that the acquisition included a seven-figure purchase price along with additional funding for script development, making it a notable deal within the industry.
Strategic Vision for Paramount+
Cindy Holland, Paramount+’s new Direct-to-Consumer chair, aims to broaden the streamer’s offerings beyond its established franchises. She seeks to integrate premium, female-driven drama series to complement the current programming lineup, which includes titles from the Taylor Sheridan universe and CBS features.
Immediate Future and Production Timeline
Filming for “Discretion” is slated to begin in 2026. This rapid turnaround from concept to series order is particularly impressive by today’s standards. The series aims to leverage Holland’s established relationships in the industry, potentially providing robust support to new projects.
Complementing Current Works
Kidman and Fanning previously worked together in “The Beguiled,” demonstrating a successful partnership in their careers. Both actresses are currently engaged in various other projects, underscoring their status in Hollywood.
Conclusion
As “Discretion” prepares to make its debut on Paramount+, the excitement surrounding its talented cast and creative team is growing. This series is positioned as a pivotal part of the platform’s evolving narrative strategy, promising to intrigue audiences with its intense storytelling.
