The Astronaut Trailer Featuring Kate Mara and Laurence Fishburne
Vertical has released the official trailer and poster for the upcoming sci-fi thriller The Astronaut, which is set to open in theaters on October 17, 2025.
Written and directed by Jess Varley, The Astronaut stars Kate Mara, Laurence Fishburne, Gabriel Luna, Ivana Milicevic, and Macy Gray, and introduces Scarlett Holmes.
When astronaut Sam Walker (Mara) returns from her first space mission, she’s found miraculously alive in a punctured capsule floating deep off the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. General William Harris (Fishburne) arranges for her to be placed under intense NASA surveillance in a high-security house for rehabilitation and medical testing.
However, when disturbing occurrences begin happening around the property, she fears that something extraterrestrial has followed her back to Earth. The Astronaut is Varley’s solo directorial debut after directing two segments for 2021’s horror anthology Phobias.
“I’m forever grateful for the Fullers and Wonder Company’s dedication to the film, and over the moon to be partnering with Vertical on its release,” said Varley when Vertical acquired the film.
“Laurence and Kate gave their all to our nostalgic roller coaster ride with heart concealed behind its scares. We’re excited for audiences to join us on a journey of wonderment where all is not what it seems… even the genre itself.”
“Jess’ direction paired with my son Cameron and Wonder Company’s producing created something truly unique on The Astronaut. Vertical saw what we all felt – this is a special film from an exciting new team,” said producer Brad Fuller.
“Jess has created a claustrophobic, otherworldly sci-fi thriller anchored by fantastic performances from Kate and Laurence. We can’t wait for The Astronaut to keep U.S. audiences on the edge of their seats until the final frame,” added Vertical Partner Peter Jarowey.
The film was produced by genre heavyweight Brad Fuller, who has been behind some of the biggest titles in the space, including the A Quiet Place franchise and The Purge franchise. Cameron Fuller, Eric B. Fleischman, and Chris Abernathy also produced. Jan McAdoo, Stephen Braun, and Laurence Fishburne are executive producers.
The additional below-the-line talent includes cinematographer Dave Garbett (Evil Dead Rise), production designer Alan Gilmore (Cobweb), editors Joel Griffen (Shining Vale) and Terel Gibson (Star Wars: Skeleton Crew, Cuckoo), and costume designer Joanna David (Singing in My Sleep). The casting is by Lindsey Weissmueller (Sacramento), and the music is by Jacques Brautbar (Sting).
