Dacre Montgomery, best known for playing Billy Hargrove in Stranger Things, is stepping behind the camera for his directorial debut. The actor will direct and star in The Engagement Party, a new film with a gripping storyline. The project is already gaining attention ahead of its planned shoot later this year.
Montgomery shared his excitement about the film.
“I could not be more honoured to be directing The Engagement Party, a film with an extremely important and timely message. I’m equally thrilled to have such a wonderful team of collaborators to help bring this story to life,” he said.
The movie follows two couples reuniting on a secluded island for a celebration. A disturbing memory resurfaces, threatening to destroy their relationships. The official synopsis describes it as a tense drama where truth and deception collide.
“On a beautiful, secluded island, amidst the golden rays and ocean breeze of a stunning beach house, two couples reunite to celebrate a momentous occasion. Until a conflicting memory arises which threatens to tear their relationships apart. With each wave crashing against the shore, the line between memory and manipulation blurs, forcing them to confront a question they’ve tried to forget: What really happened that night?”
Montgomery will star alongside Lily Sullivan (Evil Dead Rise), Abbey Lee (Mad Max: Fury Road), and Arlo Green (M3GAN). The script is written by Jory Anast, who previously worked with Montgomery on Went Up the Hill.
Producers Nick Batzias and Virginia Whitwell praised the project.
“We felt strongly that this was a special film from the start. It’s a bold and unique exploration of trauma, love, friendship and consent. Writer Jory Anast and director Dacre Montgomery are brave and fearless storytellers, and we’re delighted to be working with them on this important film.”
The film is backed by GoodThing Productions, with Ian Booth and Nash Edgerton also producing. Metro International will handle sales at the Cannes market, while Madman Entertainment will distribute in Australia and New Zealand.
Montgomery rose to fame as Billy Hargrove in Stranger Things, appearing in Seasons 2 and 3 as a main cast member and returning in Season 4. He also starred in Power Rangers (2017) and played Steve Binder in Elvis (2022).
Fans have been curious about Montgomery’s career trajectory. Some online reactions show mixed opinions.
“I’m surprised Dacre Montgomery didn’t take off more. It seemed like he was going to with Stranger Things but it never happened.”
“I think they were hoping Power Rangers would launch him. It really is interesting who breaks out and who doesn’t.”
“His best work was The Broken Hearts Gallery. He should make more rom-coms.”
Despite varied opinions, Montgomery’s shift to directing marks a major career move. He has other projects lined up, including Faces of Death with Barbie Ferreira and Dead Man’s Wire alongside Al Pacino and Bill Skarsgård.
