LaKeith Stanfield is teaming up with Joey King for an unconventional sci-fi romantic comedy. The casting news follows reports that Stanfield and Molepeople director Rob Savage have exited the horror film.
According to Variety, Stanfield will play an alien in Safe Space, starring opposite King. Directed by Gillian Wallace Horvat, known for I Blame Society, the film pairs Stanfield and King in a story about romance and relationship troubles in an unusual setting.
The project is currently seeking financing, with production scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2027 in the United States. Casting is reportedly ongoing, with additional roles yet to be announced.
French sales company Lucky Number is handling international sales, with CAA Media Finance and WME Independent also involved in the project’s market presentation. Lucky Number will screen an exclusive sizzle reel for potential buyers at American Film Market.
Joey King and LaKeith Stanfield’s new comedy takes toxic relationships to another galaxy
The story follows Sherrie, played by King, an intelligent but insecure scientist trying to move past a toxic relationship with her co-worker. She instead begins a rebound relationship with a gorgeous alien, played by LaKeith Stanfield, setting the stage for an intensely toxic romance.
The film is described as a satirical take on modern dating and explores sex, love, intimacy, and how people connect in an increasingly screen-driven society. Its sci-fi premise gives the story an unusual setting for examining familiar relationship problems.
Karen Lunder is producing the film through her production banner, Outdoor Cat. Lunder praised Horvat’s vision and tonal approach, saying, “What she has created with Safe Space is a wildly original take on the future of dating and humanity.”
King most recently appeared in Practical Magic 2. Stanfield’s recent credits include I Love Boosters and The Wrong Girls. His upcoming projects include F.A.S.T., Lear Rex, and Monsanto.
Safe Space does not yet have a release date.