Kellan Lutz races to save lives in thriller 'The Rescue'—buyers edge

Premiere Entertainment Group has unveiled a new faith‑based survival thriller, The Rescue, to international buyers at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) market. The project stars Kellan Lutz, known for his work in the Twilight franchise and The Expendables 3.

Production is slated to begin in New Zealand in January 2027.

The film’s story follows a rescue team trapped on a frozen Alaskan mountain after a violent storm, forcing them to confront not only the elements but also their faith. The narrative positions survival as a test of endurance and belief, with hope pushed to its breaking point.

The script was written by Jared van Berkel, who will also co‑direct the film with Darren Simmonds.

Alongside Lutz, the ensemble cast is still forming, but the production team includes producers Simon Ambridge, Anton Steel and van Berkel.

CEO Elias Axume of Premiere Entertainment Group praised the project, saying “The Rescue has everything international audiences respond to: a recognizable star, an expansive survival story, and a powerful emotional message.” Lutz’s representation is handled by Innovative Artists.

## Background & Context

Faith‑based thrillers have carved a niche in global markets, often pairing dramatic survival scenarios with spiritual themes. The Rescue’s premise—an isolated rescue squad confronting a brutal Alaskan storm—mirrors earlier blockbusters that blend intense action with moral questioning.

Premiere Entertainment Group is positioning the film to appeal to audiences who enjoy both high‑stakes adventure and reflective storytelling.

Kellan Lutz’s involvement brings recognition from his Twilight roles and recent work in The Expendables 3, establishing a familiar face for genre fans. The film will be directed by Darren Simmonds alongside Jared van Berkel, who also wrote the screenplay.

Production is scheduled to begin in New Zealand in January 2027, a location chosen for its rugged, alpine landscapes that can emulate the Alaskan setting.

## Next Steps

At the TIFF market, Premiere Entertainment Group is pitching The Rescue to international buyers, aiming to secure distribution deals before filming commences. The company emphasized the film’s blend of action and faith‑based messaging as a selling point for global markets.

Representatives also highlighted Lutz’s star power and the experienced production team as key advantages.

With filming slated to start in New Zealand in January 2027, the project is moving quickly from pitch to pre‑production. The ensemble cast is still being finalized, but the production team—led by producers Simon Ambridge, Anton Steel and Jared van Berkel—is already coordinating logistics.

Lutz’s agency Innovative Artists has expressed support for the project’s schedule and international ambitions.

Fans of Kellan Lutz can look forward to a fresh take on survival drama that promises both heart‑pounding stakes and a message of hope. The Rescue will remain on the radar as its development progresses and distribution agreements are finalized.