Acclaimed Burmese-Taiwanese filmmaker Midi Z has unveiled the first look at his upcoming crime thriller The Exiles, currently filming in Taipei. The image features Sam Worthington and Taiwanese actress Ke-Xi Wu in a tense, twilight moment along Taiwan’s coast, setting the tone for the film’s ominous atmosphere.
Inspired by True Events
The Exiles tells the story of a Westerner who travels to Asia in search of opportunity but instead encounters greed, rivalry, and ego that spiral into a shocking murder. The project marks Midi Z’s first English-language feature, co-written by the director and described as his bold step into genre filmmaking while retaining his signature visual ambition.
Star-Studded Cast
The film stars Worthington, Wu, and David Duchovny in leading roles. Producers also announced new supporting cast members at the Berlinale, including Sam Rechner (The Fabelmans, Scream 7), Nicholas Hamilton (It, Captain Fantastic), Sky Yang (Rebel Moon Part 1), G. Madison IV (MJ: The Musical), and Valerie Laury (The Requiem Boogie).
Award-Winning Creative Team
Behind the camera, The Exiles boasts a multi-Oscar-nominated crew. Cinematographer Ed Lachman (Carol, The Virgin Suicides), editor Hank Corwin (The Big Short, The Tree of Life), and composer Lim Giong (Cannes Best Score winner for The Assassin) bring their expertise to the project.
Producers and Support
The film is produced by Anita Gou (The Farewell), Tom Heller (Foxcatcher), Claudia Tseng, and Midi Z, with Killer Films’ Christine Vachon (Carol), Gabi Meyers (A Different Man), and Wu serving as executive producers. The Taiwan Creative Content Agency (TAICCA) is providing financing and support.
International Sales
Mister Smith Entertainment is handling international sales at the European Film Market, while CAA represents U.S. rights. Shane Kelly, senior VP of international sales at Mister Smith, described the film as “an unrelenting crime thriller that grips from the first page,” praising its blend of auteur ambition and muscular genre storytelling. With its striking first look, powerhouse cast, and award-winning creative team, The Exiles is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated international thrillers of 2026.
