Henry Cavill is set to star alongside Kevin Hart in an untitled spy action-comedy for Netflix, bringing together two of the streamer’s biggest recurring names in one major film project. The movie is based on a short story by Sean Lewis and centers on two elite rival secret agents who unknowingly lead double lives until their worlds collide in an unexpected way. The story begins when their pregnant wives become close friends, pushing the two men into the same space during a Lamaze breathing class and forcing them to navigate fatherhood, espionage, and dangerous secrets at the same time.
The film is being developed by a strong behind-the-scenes team. Reports say Shawn Levy’s 21 Laps and Ryan Reynolds’ Maximum Effort will produce the project, while McG is attached to direct. The screenplay is being written by Adam and Aaron Nee, known for “Masters of the Universe” and “The Lost City,” along with Jonathan Tropper, whose credits include “The Adam Project” and “Banshee.” Hart is also expected to produce through his HartBeat banner, adding to his growing role behind the camera.
Cavill and Hart both have established relationships with Netflix through previous high-profile projects. Cavill starred in “The Witcher” and appeared as Sherlock Holmes in the “Enola Holmes” films opposite Millie Bobby Brown. Hart has become a frequent lead in Netflix films, including “Lift,” “The Man from Toronto,” “Me Time,” and “Fatherhood.” The new spy comedy gives Cavill another chance to play in the espionage space, especially after he recently said he feels too old to play James Bond but would still be interested in portraying a Bond villain.
The announcement comes shortly after Hart faced backlash over jokes from “The Roast of Kevin Hart,” a Netflix special that drew criticism for a line from Tony Hinchcliffe referencing George Floyd. During an appearance on “The Breakfast Club,” Hart acknowledged that the joke was not tasteful for the Black community, but defended the roast format as a place where edgy humor is expected. He said he understands the style of comedians like Hinchcliffe and does not judge them for pushing boundaries in that setting.
Despite the controversy, Hart remains one of Netflix’s most visible comedy and action stars, and this new project suggests the streamer is continuing to build around his broad audience appeal. Pairing Hart with Cavill creates a high-profile comedy built on contrast, mixing Hart’s fast-talking energy with Cavill’s action-star image. The film is positioned as a broad commercial play, combining spy thrills, workplace-style partnership, and family comedy in a premise designed to attract a wide streaming audience.
