'Foster' Release Date, Cast, and Plot: Everything We Know About James Franco’s 1980s Set Action Thriller

Published 09/18/2025, 9:43 PM EDT

In the diverse world of cinema, James Franco has proven himself a chameleon, transitioning from stoner comedies like Pineapple Express to dramatic biopics such as 127 Hours. His performances are always captivating, drawing audiences into the unique worlds of his characters. Now, his latest venture, the action thriller Foster, promises to add a new and intense chapter to his filmography.

Having appeared in limited titles since the past few years, James Franco has decided to test if audiences can hold their breath longer than his characters.

Who will wear the mask of the characters of Foster?

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The movie features a talented ensemble alongside James Franco, Ron Perlman, and Natalie Burn as per Deadl. Newly added to the cast are six actors: Dash Mihok, Randy J. Goodwin, Rhys Coiro, Alexis Knapp, James Frain, and Jeremy Luke. This group of experienced performers promises to create a compelling and dynamic on-screen presence for the intense thriller.

The narrative unravels a dark and dangerous past. What the plot reveals?

What is the story of Foster?

According to Deadline, the film follows Donald (Don) Foster, a man seeking peace and sobriety. His past comes back to haunt him when a troubled addict, June, leaves her son at his door. He is then pursued by his ruthless former boss, Brooks, a crime lord who knows all his secrets. Don must fight for redemption and protect the young boy. Don is pulled back into the violent underworld he worked so hard to escape. He must confront the sins of his past and the woman who drew him back in, all while a relentless enemy hunts him down. The movie is set in the 1980s, promising an analog, gritty feel to the action movie list.

The film's journey from production to the big screen is what viewers will anticipate next.

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When can one watch the 1980 thriller Foster?

Production for the action thriller began in August. Foster was recently introduced to buyers at the Toronto International Film Festival by Top Film Distribution, which is handling international sales. A specific release date has not been announced yet, but the film is already generating significant interest in the market. Director Timothy Woodward Jr., an Emmy winner known for his work on Studio City, is at the helm of this action thriller. The actors' representation is extensive, with agencies such as Gersh, Global Artists Agency, Formation Talent Agency, Elevate Artist Management, B-Side Management, and Luber Roklin all handling the careers of the newly announced cast members.

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Are you waiting for the release to be announced soon? Let us know in the comments below.

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Soma Mitra

348 articles

Soma is a journalist at Netflix Junkie. With a postgraduate degree in Mass Communication, she brings production experience from documentary films like Chandua: Stories on Fabric. Covering the true crime and docu-drama beat, she turns psychological thrillers into sharp, audience-aware storytelling.

Edited By: Aliza Siddiqui

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