New Addition to a High-Stakes Thriller

Oscar-nominated actress Vera Farmiga is set to join the cast of “Billion Dollar Spy,” a Cold War thriller produced by Walden Media. She will star alongside acclaimed actors Russell Crowe and Harry Lawtey as production ramps up.

A Gripping Narrative Inspired by Real Events

The film is an adaptation of the Pulitzer Prize-winning book by David E. Hoffman, chronicling the true story of Adolf Tolkachev, played by Crowe. Tolkachev made a perilous choice to leak crucial Soviet intelligence documents to U.S. authorities, risking his life for a cause he believed in.

Despite facing initial skepticism from the CIA, Tolkachev’s tenacity led him to engage with CIA agent Tom Lenihan, portrayed by Lawtey. Together, they navigate the complexities of espionage and national loyalty, illustrating that true patriotism may involve standing against an unjust government.

Farmiga’s Role and Directorial Team

In this compelling narrative, Farmiga will portray Natasha Tolkachev, the wife of Adolf Tolkachev. Her involvement adds further depth to a story centered around sacrifice and courage.

The film is helmed by BAFTA Award-winning director Amma Asante, with the screenplay crafted by Oscar-winning writer Stephen Gaghan, known for his work on “Traffic” and “Syriana.” The project benefits from earlier script efforts by Ben August.

Production and Release Details

“Billion Dollar Spy” is a collaboration between Walden Media and Weed Road Pictures, with producers including Frank Smith, Benjamin Tappan, and Cher Hawrysh from Walden Media, alongside Akiva Goldsman and Greg Lessans from Weed Road. The film’s executive producers are Jane Hooks and Naia Cucukov, while Ildiko Kemeny, David Minkowski, and Ferenc Szále from Pioneer Stillking Films serve as co-producers.

International sales are managed by Hanway Films, with CAA Media Finance overseeing domestic rights.

Farmiga’s Career Highlights

Vera Farmiga garnered an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress in 2010 for her role in “Up in the Air.” Known for her early work in films like “The Manchurian Candidate” and “Autumn in New York,” she rose to prominence with her leading role in Martin Scorsese’s “The Departed.” Additionally, she is widely recognized for her portrayal of paranormal investigator Lorraine Warren in “The Conjuring” franchise, which has generated over $2.25 billion at the box office, including spin-offs like “The Nun” and “Annabelle.” Farmiga is expected to reprise her role in the forthcoming “The Conjuring: Last Rites,” set to release on September 5. She is also featured in “The Leader,” a film centered on the Heaven’s Gate cult, alongside Michael C. Hall and Tim Blake Nelson.