Glen Powell’s schedule isn’t about to slow down. The actor and his production company, Barnstorm, have signed a first-look deal with Universal Pictures, the studio behind “Twister” (1996) and its Powell-starring sequel “Twisters” (2024).
“Barnstorm has been a dream of mine since I was a kid,” Powell said in a statement. “I want our company to be a destination for world class theatrical entertainment. Throughout the process of making ‘Twisters,’ I was so impressed with the leadership of Universal and the vision and ambition of their team across so many departments. We are so honored to call them home.”
More from IndieWire
“Glen is the complete package: a talented, charismatic producer, creator, writer, and actor at the top of his game, who is committed to entertaining global audiences across all genres,” Universal Pictures President Peter Cramer said. “He was an ideal partner throughout the production and release of our hit ‘Twisters,’ and we know that he will continue to expand on his success in the years to come. We couldn’t be more excited to collaborate with him, Dan, and the Barnstorm team to create compelling new stories for the big screen.”
Barnstorm produced “The Blue Angels,” “Hitman,” and the upcoming Hulu series “Chad Powers.”
Along with the news of the deal, Barnstorm announced Tuesday that Dan Cohen has joined the company as a partner.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the nearly 15 years I’ve spent at 21 Laps with Shawn Levy, Dan Levine & the 21 Laps entire team for everything we’ve made together and I wasn’t looking to leave,” Cohen said. “Glen is somebody I’ve admired for a long time and who’s earned every ounce of his success. Partnering with him at Barnstorm is an extraordinary opportunity. We share a passion for pushing creative boundaries, amplifying fresh voices, and telling bold, impactful stories that connect with audiences around the world. People often talk about doing ‘One for me… and one for them.’ But in looking forward to building Barnstorm, the philosophy is “All for me. And all for them.”
“Twisters,” released in July, earned $370 million at the global box office; the original almost made $500 million, and that’s not considering inflation.
Powell first broke out as the new Iceman (of sorts) opposite Tom Cruise in “Top Gun: Maverick.” He has since starred in every single movie made (that’s only a bit of hyperbole), and has written and produced more of them than you might think.
Best of IndieWire
Sign up for Indiewire’s Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.