Tony Gilroy and Pedro Pascal’s new film, Behemoth!, has debuted to strong critical interest following its world premiere as the Centerpiece selection at the 64th New York Film Festival on October 2, 2026. The project, which marks Gilroy’s first directorial effort since 2012’s The Bourne Legacy.
Pascal stars as Alex Serian, a world-class cellist who returns to Los Angeles after 20 years. The narrative follows his attempts to reconnect with his family while transitioning his career into the specialized world of film scoring. To ensure authenticity during the film’s musical sequences, Pascal underwent professional cello training to perform the complex pieces required for the role.
The film represents a distinct artistic pivot for both Pascal and Gilroy. While Gilroy has recently been recognized as the creator of the Star Wars series Andor, this project moves away from high-stakes science fiction toward a focused character study of a musician.
The Behemoth! Collective
A central feature of the production is the “Behemoth! Collective,” a group of nine A-list composers who collaborated to create the film’s non-linear score. The collective includes industry veterans such as James Newton Howard, Michael Giacchino, and Alan Silvestri. This unique musical structure serves as the “narrative spine” of the film, reflecting Serian’s professional evolution and his struggle to find a new voice within the industry.
According to Searchlight Pictures, the studio has scheduled the film for a wide theatrical release on December 4, 2026. The film is expected to be a significant entry in the year-end awards conversation, particularly regarding its experimental approach to sound and its central performance by Pascal.
The debut marks a busy period for Pascal, who has spent much of 2026 in the blockbuster spotlight. Behemoth! serves as a more intimate counterpoint to his recent theatrical outings, focusing on the internal life of a gifted artist rather than the ensemble-driven action of his previous work.
