Brian De Palma Plots a Final Act with Sweet Vengeance

For decades, Brian De Palma’s name has been synonymous with cinematic flair and audacious storytelling. Yet, as the years have rolled on, his output has not quite kept pace with the likes of Martin Scorsese, whose recent work continues to draw both critical and public acclaim. De Palma’s more recent efforts, particularly the 2019 release Domino, left many wondering if his best days were behind him. That film, met with a rather muted response, seemed to signal a quiet end to a storied career.

Sweet Vengeance: A New Chapter

Now, however, De Palma is preparing to step behind the camera once more. Sweet Vengeance, his latest and reportedly final project, is set to begin filming this summer. Details about the plot remain closely guarded, but early hints suggest a return to the director’s roots in crime and suspense. De Palma first mentioned the project back in 2018, revealing that it draws inspiration from two real-life murder cases and other true crime material—territory he’s navigated with considerable skill in the past.

His previous outing, Domino, was beset by production woes and ultimately bypassed cinemas for a quiet digital release. There’s hope that this time, the process will be less fraught. De Palma himself has said,

I’m interested in how they tell the story of the crime, so I’ll do it the way [they] do on television, based on two real cases.

Filming is due to take place in Portugal, with casting announcements expected soon. Given the recent appetite for original stories among audiences, there’s a sense that De Palma could find a receptive new generation for his work—if he delivers the goods.

Unrealised Ambitions: The Predator That Never Was

Sweet Vengeance isn’t the only project De Palma has toyed with in recent years. At one point, he was developing a film called Predator—not to be confused with the sci-fi franchise. This version was inspired by the scandals surrounding Harvey Weinstein, reimagined as a horror set within the film industry. De Palma described it as a story about a sexual predator, with the action unfolding against the backdrop of Hollywood’s inner workings.

He explained,

I’am writing a film about this scandal, which I am currently discussing with a French producer. My character will not be called Harvey Weinstein. But it will be a horror movie, with a sexual aggressor, and it will happen in the film industry.

Ultimately, the project never materialised, but it’s clear De Palma’s creative instincts remain as sharp as ever, even if the industry has changed around him.

Looking Ahead

With Sweet Vengeance, De Palma has a chance to remind audiences why his work once set the standard for cinematic suspense. The film is expected to start shooting in Portugal this summer, though a release date has yet to be announced. As anticipation builds, fans and critics alike are left to wonder whether this final act will see De Palma bow out on a high note—or simply fade into the background of film history.

Are you looking forward to seeing what De Palma has in store? The wait for Sweet Vengeance continues.