Alan Ritchson is currently in Queensland, Australia, to commence filming an Amazon MGM Studios feature inspired by the true story of decorated Navy SEAL Mike Thornton. The project, which started principal photography this month at Village Roadshow Studios on the Gold Coast, signifies Ritchson's second recent venture in the area, following his action-thriller "Runner," filmed in Brisbane and the Gold Coast in 2025.
The film, directed by Australian filmmaker Patrick Hughes, chronicles Thornton's incredible survival narrative in the South China Sea, an act of heroism that earned him a Congressional Medal of Honor. Ritchson, recognized for his performances in "Reacher" and "Fast X," is joined by Joe Cole and Hoa Xuande in leading roles. The production team boasts a strong lineup, including Sylvester Stallone and D. Matt Geller producing under Balboa Productions, along with Hidden Pictures' Todd Lieberman and Alex Young, Ritchson's AllyCat Entertainment, and Alan Rautbort. The screenplay was co-written by Mark Semos, Ritchson, and Jason Hall.
This cinematic endeavor has garnered substantial backing from the Australian government through the Location Offset, the Queensland government via Screen Queensland's Production Attraction Strategy, and the City of Gold Coast's Screen Attraction Program. Acting Minister for the Arts, Tim Nicholls, emphasized the project's positive economic impact, projecting the creation of approximately 260 local jobs and an infusion of an estimated AUD50 million (USD 33.5 million) into Queensland's economy. Screen Queensland CEO Jacqui Feeney underscored the state's proven capabilities in handling complex action and water-based productions, making it an ideal location for such an ambitious film. The Mike Thornton project is one of several Amazon MGM Studios productions choosing Queensland, highlighting the region's growing appeal as a major filmmaking hub.
The collaborative spirit and strategic investments in film production, as demonstrated by this project, not only foster artistic endeavors but also create tangible economic benefits and cultivate a thriving creative industry. Such initiatives contribute to local prosperity, showcase regional talent, and affirm the power of storytelling to inspire and entertain on a global scale.