Leonardo DiCaprio and Martin Scorsese are teaming up again for their seventh collaboration on a new mystery thriller titled What Happens at Night. The legendary actor-director duo, whose previous films include The Wolf of Wall Street, The Departed, and Killers of the Flower Moon, will begin production later this year with filming expected to start in summer 2026.

Leonardo DiCaprio Martin Scorsese Partnership Continues

The Leonardo DiCaprio Martin Scorsese partnership spans over two decades and represents one of Hollywood's most successful creative alliances. Their collaborations have generated multiple Academy Awards and nearly $2 billion in worldwide box office receipts.

"Working with Marty is like coming home," DiCaprio said in a recent interview. "We understand each other creatively, and he always pushes me to places I didn't know I could go." Film critics consistently rank their partnership among the greatest actor-director collaborations in cinema history.

What Happens at Night marks a departure from their recent historical dramas, venturing into psychological thriller territory. The plot centers on a former detective investigating a series of mysterious disappearances in a small New England town during the dead of winter.

What Happens at Night Plot and Production Details

What Happens at Night follows retired detective Jack Harper, played by DiCaprio, who returns to his hometown after 20 years to investigate the disappearance of his estranged brother. As Harper digs deeper, he uncovers a conspiracy that reaches the highest levels of local government.

The film will be shot primarily on location in Vermont and Maine, taking advantage of the harsh winter conditions to create an atmospheric, claustrophobic setting. Cinema enthusiasts are already comparing the premise to Scorsese's earlier crime thrillers like Cape Fear and Shutter Island.

Oscar-winning cinematographer Rodrigo Prieto, who shot Killers of the Flower Moon and The Irishman, will reunite with Scorsese for this project. The screenplay comes from Eric Roth, the veteran writer behind Forrest Gump and Dune.

Supporting Cast Joins DiCaprio

What Happens at Night has attracted an impressive ensemble cast to support DiCaprio. Robert De Niro, a longtime Scorsese collaborator, will play the town's corrupt mayor. Recent Oscar winner Zoe Saldana joins as a local journalist who assists Harper's investigation.

"The script is incredible," Saldana said during a press event. "It's a smart thriller that keeps you guessing until the very end." Hollywood casting news suggests additional high-profile names will be announced as production approaches.

The film also marks a reunion between DiCaprio and Paul Dano, who previously starred together in There Will Be Blood. Dano plays Harper's brother, appearing primarily in flashbacks that slowly reveal the truth behind his disappearance.

Release Date and Awards Buzz

Paramount Pictures has scheduled What Happens at Night for a December 2027 release, positioning the film for awards season consideration. The Leonardo DiCaprio Martin Scorsese combination has historically performed well with Academy voters, earning numerous nominations and wins.

Industry analysts predict the film could premiere at the Venice or Telluride film festivals before its theatrical release. Read Deadline's exclusive on What Happens at Night production details. With this powerhouse team assembled, What Happens at Night is already generating significant Oscar buzz nearly two years before release.