Movies

Adam Sandler Goes Dark in Netflix Thriller Remake Time Out from Scott Cooper

Adam Sandler Goes Dark in Netflix Thriller Remake Time Out from Scott Cooper
Image credit: Legion-Media

Adam Sandler goes dark, teaming with Willem Dafoe on Netflix’s remake of an acclaimed 2001 psychological thriller.

Adam Sandler apparently isn’t ready to take a break from Netflix cashing in on his dramatic chops. If you were still reeling from the rumors that Sandler was sliding into a role meant for Christian Bale, you guessed right—the trade’s now official, so here comes what could be Sandler’s darkest movie yet.

Netflix’s big new project is called Time Out. And no, this isn’t about sports penalties or sending your kid to the corner. It’s a remake of L’Emploi du temps, which is one of those celebrated French films from the early 2000s that critics secretly hope you haven’t seen—just so they can sound smart talking about it. The original (from 2001) was directed by Laurent Cantet and is, depending on who you ask, a masterclass in uncomfortable suspense. Sandler is landing right in the thick of it.

Behind the Camera (and Why That Matters)

This is not just some random Sandler comedy vehicle getting a quick-and-dirty remake. Netflix has recruited Scott Cooper for this one. You might recognize his name from The Pale Blue Eye or Crazy Heart (plus a few very moody thrillers). So, expect a lot less slapstick and a lot more existential dread.

Here’s the Cast:

  • Adam Sandler (in the lead—presumably doing more 'Uncut Gems' stress-face)
  • Willem Dafoe (almost always worth watching, especially when things get weird)
  • Gaby Hoffmann (very underrated—glad to see her in this)
  • F. Murray Abraham (yes, he of the Oscar and the amazing eyebrows)
  • Steve Zahn (always sneaking in to make dramas a little funnier or sadder than expected)
  • Adam Horovitz (aka Ad-Rock from Beastie Boys… because why not?)

What’s this thing actually about? The original film centered on a guy who fabricates a new life and job for himself after losing his real one—unraveling into what’s basically a slow-burn look at desperation, lies, and what people are willing to do when their backs are against the wall. If Sandler goes full tragic, this could hit harder than the average Netflix thriller.

To quote Netflix—because Sandler news always comes with some official hype—the streamer says the casting is set, and filming is moving ahead. No word yet on release dates or if Sandler picks up a French accent (please, no).

Honestly, between the pedigree, the oddball casting (I see you, Adam Horovitz), and the fact Sandler seems to be chasing another shot at that ‘serious actor’ trophy, Time Out could end up a wild one. More updates as soon as we get them.