Lily-Rose Depp to Lead Searchlight's 'Playmates', a Coming-of-Age Drama Set at the Playboy Mansion

Key points

• Lily-Rose Depp is set to star in 'Playmates,' a coming-of-age drama written and directed by Lorraine Nicholson for her feature directorial debut.
• The film has been acquired by Searchlight Pictures, with Alex Orlovsky and Duncan Montgomery of High Frequency Entertainment serving as producers alongside Depp.
• Bill Pullman has joined the cast to portray Hugh Hefner, while Indiana Elle will play the young protagonist, Elle, who considers the Playboy Mansion her second home.
• The story centers on an unlikely friendship between 13-year-old Elle and Anna, a Playmate hopeful, as they navigate their respective desires for a magazine cover and a romantic interest.
• Nicholson, the daughter of Jack Nicholson, drew inspiration from her own childhood visits to the Playboy Mansion in the 1990s, as detailed in a 2024 essay for Vanity Fair.
• Depp is currently active in several projects, including Robert Eggers' 'Werwulf' and the sci-fi comedy 'Alpha Gang,' while Pullman is set to appear in 'Spaceballs: The New One' next year.

Background

This announcement follows a period of increased visibility for Lily-Rose Depp, who recently starred in Robert Eggers' 'Nosferatu' and is set to appear in 'Werwulf' and 'Alpha Gang.' Lorraine Nicholson, previously known for her role in 'Soul Surfer' and her short film 'Life Boat,' is making her feature directorial debut with this project. The film's premise draws from Nicholson's personal history, which she previously shared in a 2024 essay for Vanity Fair, detailing her unique upbringing at the Playboy Mansion during the 1990s.

Why it matters

The acquisition of 'Playmates' by Searchlight Pictures signals a continued interest in personal, biographical, and coming-of-age narratives that explore the intersection of celebrity culture and childhood. The involvement of high-profile names like Lily-Rose Depp and Bill Pullman, alongside a directorial debut from a figure with a unique connection to the subject matter, suggests a project with significant marketing potential and critical attention. It also highlights the ongoing cultural fascination with the Playboy Mansion and its historical impact on Hollywood's social fabric.

What to watch

Production details, including a start date and filming locations, are expected to be announced in the coming months. Searchlight Pictures will oversee the project through its VP of production Richard Ruiz and creative executive Cornelia Burleigh. Audiences will likely see updates on the film's progress at major film festivals or through industry news outlets as it moves toward a release date.