J.K. Simmons and Nina Arianda Join ‘109 Billion Followers’ Ensemble Cast (EXCLUSIVE)

As an ardent admirer of the captivating world of cinema, I am utterly thrilled to witness the union of some of the most exceptional talents in the industry for Ela Thier’s upcoming magical realism dramedy, “109 Billion Followers.” The ensemble cast, featuring Oscar winner J.K. Simmons, Tony winner Nina Arianda, and their daughter Olivia Simmons, promises a unique blend of drama, humor, and heartwarming performances that will undoubtedly leave audiences captivated.


Actors J.K. Simmons, who won an Oscar, and Nina Arianda, a Tony award winner, have signed on to be part of the star-studded cast for the magical realism comedy-drama titled “109 Billion Followers.” This film is being penned by writer-director Ela Thier, known for her work on “Foreign Letters” and “Tomorrow Ever After.

The movie titled ‘109 Billion Followers,’ set to start filming in November in New York City, boasts a star-studded cast that includes J.K. Simmons’ daughter, Olivia Simmons (from the film ‘You Can’t Run Forever’), and Jake Ryan (known for his roles in ‘Asteroid City’ and ‘Eighth Grade’).

The film chronicles a student in film production (Olivia Simmons), who produces a documentary featuring a homeless individual (J.K. Simmons), who firmly believes himself to be the embodiment of Death itself, or the Grim Reaper. Alongside her, Jake Ryan serves as both cameraman and potential romantic interest, injecting humor and affection into the narrative. Meanwhile, Nina Arianda’s character portrays Olivia’s troubled but caring mother, adding layers of emotional turmoil to the storyline.

J.K. Simmons and Arianda are set to reunite, as they played William Frawley and Vivian Vance respectively in the 2021 biographical drama about Lucille Ball, titled “Being the Ricardos,” directed by Aaron Sorkin.

In the year 2015, Simmons received an Academy Award for portraying a ruthless jazz tutor in the movie “Whiplash.” Upcoming roles include appearances in “The Union,” “Red One,” “Saturday Night,” and “Juror #2.

In the year 2015, Arianda received a Tony Award for her role in “Venus in Fur.” Besides this, she has also been involved in productions such as “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” “Goliath,” “Richard Jewell,” “Stan & Ollie” and “Florence Foster Jenkins.

As a movie enthusiast, I penned this script particularly for the duo, J.K. and Olivia Simmons, because I am confident that their bond will illuminate the screen and capture everyone’s affection. Our relationships with our parents or caregivers can be fraught with difficulties and complexities, shaping all of our connections in life. This film is my heartfelt tribute to all parents, including mine.

The film titled ‘109 Billion Followers’, a joint production by Thier Productions and Darius Films, is being produced by Ela Thier and Nicholas Tabarrok, known for their work on ‘The Baker’ and ‘Irena’s Vow’.

Tabarrok shares that he previously worked with J.K. Simmons, specifically on ‘A Beginner’s Guide to Endings’, and expresses delight at collaborating with him once more alongside this exceptional ensemble cast. He adds, with a touch of enthusiasm, “What could be more fitting than shooting in the legendary New York City during the Fall season?

The movie team is composed of Director of Photography Milton Kam, Production Designer Mariana Soares, Casting Directors Mia Cusumano and Meghan Rafferty as well.

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2024-10-04 21:48