Shawn Levy to Direct Emotional Sci-Fi Film for Netflix After Deadpool & Wolverine Success

Shawn Levy continues to strengthen his reputation as one of Hollywood’s most in-demand filmmakers.

Following the major success of Deadpool & Wolverine, the director is launching a new large-scale project — the emotional science-fiction drama Somewhere Out There, whose rights were reportedly acquired by Netflix after intense competition among studios and streaming platforms.

The film is expected to mark a notable shift for Levy away from the superhero and adventure genres that have recently defined much of his career.

A Story About Grief, Hope, and a Signal from Space
The movie centers on a man struggling to cope with the death of his wife.

In an attempt to deal with his grief, he sends a message into deep space — almost like speaking into emptiness itself. Unexpectedly, he receives a response.

That mysterious contact becomes the starting point for a story that reportedly combines intimate human drama with large-scale science-fiction mystery.

Industry insiders have already compared the project to Arrival by Denis Villeneuve — not because of identical plot elements, but because of its emotional depth and philosophical themes.

The comparison is particularly fitting given that Levy previously served as a producer on Arrival.

Netflix Won the Rights Battle
The screenplay was written by Max Taxe and reportedly generated strong interest almost immediately after entering the market.

Netflix ultimately secured the project after a competitive bidding process involving multiple major studios and platforms.

For the streaming company, the acquisition represents another major investment in ambitious original science fiction — a genre that continues to be one of the platform’s strategic priorities.

Levy Will Also Produce the Film
In addition to directing, Levy will produce the movie through his company 21 Laps Entertainment.

He will once again collaborate with longtime producing partner Dan Levine.

Over the past several years, 21 Laps has become one of Netflix’s most important creative partners, producing a range of major fantasy, science-fiction, and adventure projects for the platform.

The new film appears to be a natural continuation of that successful relationship.

Major Stars Are Already Interested
Although no official casting announcements have been made, insiders claim that several high-profile Hollywood actors are already showing interest in the lead role.

That is hardly surprising given Levy’s recent track record working with major stars such as Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, and Ryan Gosling.

A Strong Career Momentum Continues
The deal for Somewhere Out There comes during one of the most successful periods of Levy’s career.

The director recently completed work on Star Wars: Starfighter starring Ryan Gosling, following the release of one of the most anticipated superhero films of recent years.

The new project suggests Levy is increasingly interested in telling more personal and emotionally layered stories rather than focusing exclusively on large-scale blockbusters.

If the film successfully delivers on its ambitious tone, Somewhere Out There could become one of the most mature and distinctive entries in Shawn Levy’s filmography.