In a high-octane new acquisition, Amazon MGM Studios has secured the film American Speed, an intense and captivating drama inspired by the real-life exploits of the infamous Whittington brothers, a duo of racecar drivers with a criminal twist.
Featuring powerhouse actors Tom Holland and Austin Butler in lead roles, this project will explore the turbulent and controversial lives of these speed-hungry siblings who, at the height of their careers, were entangled in one of motorsport’s most scandalous affairs. The casting of Holland and Butler, along with Academy Award-winning producer Charles Roven, signals a promising collaboration for Amazon MGM Studios as they continue to bring original stories to the screen.
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Revving Up the Storyline: The Whittington Brothers’ Saga
The narrative of American Speed will center around the true story of the Whittington brothers, whose ambition extended far beyond the racetrack. Known for their unmatched skills on the track, these brothers raced through the 1980s International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) circuit, a prestigious championship. However, their drive for speed had a darker underside. The Whittington brothers became infamous for their alleged involvement in financing their racing careers through illicit activities, including drug trafficking and money laundering. Their downfall, marked by scandal and legal battles, makes their story ripe for the big screen.
Dan Wiedenhaupt, acclaimed for his work on Alpha, will pen the script. With a knack for capturing the drama of high-stakes adventure, Wiedenhaupt is set to bring the Whittingtons’ gritty story to life, blending their dangerous lifestyle with the thrill of motorsport. The film will delve into both the brothers’ relentless pursuit of victory and the darker motivations that fueled their ambitions, capturing the juxtaposition of talent and transgression in a unique way.
Heavyweights in the Driver’s Seat: Tom Holland and Austin Butler
American Speed boasts an A-list lineup, casting Tom Holland and Austin Butler as the intense, dynamic Whittington brothers. Holland, celebrated for his versatile roles, including his recent appearances in The Crowded Room and his role as Romeo in a West End production of Romeo & Juliet, is set to bring depth to his portrayal of one of the brothers. Known for his physicality and emotional range, Holland will be tasked with exploring the complex psyche of a man who lived on the edge, both on and off the track. Following this project, Holland will reprise his iconic role as Spider-Man and collaborate with Christopher Nolan in a future film, highlighting his rising trajectory in Hollywood.
Austin Butler, fresh from his recent performances in The Bikeriders and Dune: Part Two, will join Holland as his on-screen sibling. With an impressive list of upcoming projects, including roles in Ari Aster’s Eddington and Darren Aronofsky’s Caught Stealing, Butler has cemented his position as a leading talent in Hollywood. His ability to portray dark, intense characters will serve him well as he steps into the shoes of one of the Whittingtons, offering a captivating and nuanced portrayal.
Atlas Entertainment Steers the Production
American Speed is helmed by renowned producer Charles Roven, whose prolific career spans several blockbuster films, including his recent success with Oppenheimer. Roven will produce through his banner, Atlas Entertainment, alongside collaborators RD Whittington and Douglas Banker. Ryan Sanak from Atlas Entertainment will serve as executive producer, rounding out a team that brings vast experience in high-stakes drama and action.
Roven’s ongoing relationship with Amazon MGM Studios is a testament to his success within the industry. Alongside American Speed, he is also producing Mercy, a sci-fi thriller featuring Chris Pratt, scheduled for release by Amazon MGM Studios on August 15, 2025. Roven’s involvement in both projects underscores his dedication to crafting compelling, big-budget stories that promise to engage audiences globally.
A Glimpse into the Fast Lane: A Tale of Ambition and Recklessness
As American Speed dives into the lives of the Whittington brothers, viewers will be taken on a thrilling journey that captures the allure of racing and the high-stakes lifestyle that accompanied it. From the flashing lights of the racetrack to the darker corridors of underground dealings, the film is set to offer a cinematic experience that combines speed, adrenaline, and betrayal. The scandal surrounding the brothers, particularly their alleged ties to drug smuggling and money laundering, speaks to the darker side of ambition and the lengths some will go to achieve their dreams.
The Whittington brothers’ story resonates with themes of brotherhood, fame, and the consequences of unchecked ambition, providing fertile ground for a narrative that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The combination of Wiedenhaupt’s storytelling, Roven’s production expertise, and the talents of Holland and Butler signals a gripping drama that promises both action and introspection.
An Acclaimed Lineup of Representation
The cast and crew behind American Speed bring a wealth of industry connections and support. Tom Holland is represented by WME, Shelter PR, and Sloane Offer, while Austin Butler is repped by WME, Anonymous Content, Sloane Offer, and The Lede Company. Writer Dan Wiedenhaupt is represented by WME, Adam Kolbrenner of Lit Entertainment Group, and attorney Jeff Frankel, while producer Charles Roven is represented by WME and attorney Michael Schenkman.
Shifting into High Gear for Amazon MGM Studios
American Speed marks a major acquisition for Amazon MGM Studios, promising to bring audiences a story that is as thrilling as it is complex. The tale of the Whittington brothers, captured through the lens of Holland and Butler, will deliver a captivating exploration of ambition, betrayal, and redemption. Backed by a seasoned team and a compelling narrative, American Speed is set to be a cinematic ride through the fast-paced, dangerous world of 1980s racing, where victory often came with a high price.
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What is American Speed about?
American Speed is a true-story drama following the Whittington brothers, racecar drivers entangled in scandal and accused of funding their careers through illegal activities, including drug trafficking.
Who stars in American Speed?
Tom Holland and Austin Butler lead as the Whittington brothers, bringing their talents to this high-stakes portrayal of ambition and deception.
Who is producing American Speed?
Academy Award-winning producer Charles Roven, known for Oppenheimer, is producing through Atlas Entertainment, along with RD Whittington and Douglas Banker.
Who wrote the script for American Speed?
Dan Wiedenhaupt, acclaimed for his work on Alpha, crafted the screenplay, capturing the intense world of the Whittington brothers.
