Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga (2024 Film) – Selective Ranks

“Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” is an upcoming post-apocalyptic action-adventure film co-produced and directed by George Miller, who collaborated on the script with Nico Lathouris. Serving as both a spin-off and prequel to the acclaimed “Mad Max: Fury Road” (2015), it marks the fifth installment in the Mad Max franchise. Anya Taylor-Joy portrays the titular character Imperator Furiosa, alongside Chris Hemsworth.

In March 2020, casting auditions were held for the lead role, with Taylor-Joy, Hemsworth, and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II initially cast in starring roles in October. However, due to scheduling conflicts, Abdul-Mateen was replaced by Tom Burke in November. Key crew members from “Fury Road” returned for this film, including screenwriter Lathouris, film editor Margaret Sixel, costume designer Jenny Beavan, and composer Tom Holkenborg. Principal photography occurred in Australia from June to October 2022.

Produced by Warner Bros. Pictures, “Furiosa” is set to premiere at the 77th Cannes Film Festival on May 15, 2024, followed by releases in Australia on May 23, 2024, and in the United States the next day. The film is a prequel, set 15 to 20 years before the events of “Fury Road,” focusing on Furiosa’s journey from the Green Place of Many Mothers into the harsh hands of the Biker Horde led by Warlord Dementus. As she navigates the chaotic Wasteland, Furiosa plots her return home amidst the power struggles of two tyrants vying for control over the Citadel.

George Miller and co-writer Nico Lathouris meticulously developed the script over 15 years, particularly delving into the backstory of Imperator Furiosa. This backstory became the foundation for the screenplay, providing insight for Charlize Theron’s portrayal of Furiosa in “Fury Road.” Following the completion of “Three Thousand Years of Longing” (2022), Miller embarked on the casting process for a younger actress to portray Furiosa, opting against de-aging technology for Theron.

Filming commenced with second unit work in Australia in May 2022, before principal photography began in June. The production received a substantial filming incentive and spent a record-breaking sum in Australia. Hemsworth noted Miller’s inclusion of ex-convicts as supporting artists. Principal photography wrapped in October 2022. “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” unveils the origin story of the renegade warrior Furiosa prior to her fateful encounter and alliance with Mad Max.