Tom Hardy was initially set to star alongside Aaron Taylor-Johnson in Cary Fukunaga?s adaptation of Blood on Snow. However, due to unforeseen scheduling conflicts, Hardy has had to step back from the project. This news was reported by THR, which also confirmed that Benedict Cumberbatch will be stepping into the role, adding his unique touch to the film’s complex storyline. Fans of both actors are now eager to see how Cumberbatch will interpret his character and what new elements he will bring to this thrilling narrative.

Joining the impressive cast of this crime thriller are notable actors such as Eva Green from Dirty Angels, Emma Laird from The Brutalist, and Ben Mendelsohn, well-known for his role in Andor. The film, based on Nesb?’s gripping novel, centers around a hitman named Olav, portrayed by Aaron Taylor-Johnson, who is assigned by his mob boss to assassinate the boss’s unfaithful wife. As Olav grapples with his feelings for the woman, his decision not to carry out the hit ignites a series of tragic events that could lead to a violent mob war. The screenplay is co-written by Jo Nesb? and Ben Powers, ensuring a faithful yet innovative adaptation that fans can look forward to.

While the specifics of Cumberbatch?s role remain under wraps, reports from THR suggest that he will portray a rival mob boss known as the Fisherman. This character is expected to bring a compelling antagonist dynamic to the film, further intensifying the storyline and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters. As a seasoned actor, Cumberbatch’s portrayal is anticipated to add depth and nuance to the conflict, making his character a pivotal part of the film’s narrative.

Benedict Cumberbatch was recently featured in The Thing with Feathers, which made its debut at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival. In this emotional film, he plays a grieving father who begins to suspect that a menacing giant black crow is threatening him and his two sons following the sudden loss of his wife. Critics praised Cumberbatch’s performance, highlighting his ability to portray a heartbroken character struggling to cope with unimaginable loss. As one reviewer noted, ?Cumberbatch is incredible as the heartbroken father, perfectly evoking a man who cannot even fathom how to move on in his life.? The film?s emotional weight and Cumberbatch?s stirring performance leave a lasting impression on audiences, showcasing his range as an actor.

Moreover, Cumberbatch is expected to reprise his iconic role as Doctor Strange in the upcoming film Avengers: Doomsday, despite his initial statements suggesting he would not return. He humorously admitted, ?I got that wrong, I am in the next one,? and cautioned fans, ?Don?t ever believe anything I say.? He also hinted that Doctor Strange will have a significant presence in Avengers: Secret Wars, stating, ?He?s quite central to where things might go.? Fans can look forward to seeing him back in action when Avengers: Doomsday hits theaters on May 1, 2026, followed by the highly anticipated Avengers: Secret Wars on May 7, 2027. Additionally, Cumberbatch is part of the ensemble cast of Wes Anderson?s The Phoenician Scheme, set to premiere on May 30th.