Whalefall (2026): cast, story, release date and box office

Whalefall (2026) is a survival thriller film that follows a scuba diver who becomes trapped inside a sperm whale after searching for his father's remains. Directed by Brian Duffield and co-written with Daniel Kraus, the film is based on Kraus's 2023 novel. The story centers on Jay Gardiner, a diver who, while diving in the ocean, is swallowed by a sperm whale and must survive for an hour to escape.

The film begins with Jay Gardiner searching for the remains of his father, Mitt Gardiner, in the deep sea. After being swallowed by a sperm whale, he finds himself inside the creature's body, where he must navigate the confined space and survive until he can find a way to escape. The film does not reveal the outcome or major plot twists, but the premise emphasizes survival, isolation, and the physical and emotional challenges of being trapped.

Austin Abrams plays Jay Gardiner. Josh Brolin plays Mitt Gardiner. Elisabeth Shue plays Zara Gardiner. John Ortiz plays Hewey. Jane Levy plays Eva Gardiner. Emily Rudd plays Nan Gardiner.

The film premiered in London on October 5, 2026, and was released theatrically in the United States on October 16, 2026, by 20th Century Studios. It will also be screened at the Sitges Film Festival on October 14, 2026, and at the Rome Film Festival in October 2026.

The film has a budget of $49.1 million. As of the release date, earnings have not been reported.

Whalefall is available in theaters. It is not listed on any streaming services. Availability may vary by country.

Production began in Los Angeles on June 9, 2025, with filming also taking place at the Monterey Peninsula on June 17. Imagine Entertainment secured the film rights in August 2023. 20th Century Studios won the distribution rights in March 2024. Joseph Trapanese composed the film's score.

The film is categorized as a survival film and a thriller film. It runs for 99 minutes.

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Where to watch

Whalefall opens in US theaters on October 16, 2026; tickets are on sale through cinema chains and Fandango. It is not listed on a major streaming service in our records yet. Availability changes and differs by country, so check the service before you subscribe. The film box at the top of this guide links to every streaming, rental and purchase option.