A New Film Adaptation Takes The Screen
Quiver Distribution secured North American rights to the film version of Eugene O’Neill’s play, Long Day’s Journey Into Night. The project features Jessica Lange as Mary Tyrone, reprising the role that earned her a Tony Award on Broadway in 2016. Quiver scheduled the North American release for September 25, 2026. This wide release follows a special screening event at Film at Lincoln Center on September 14.
Jonathan Kent directed the production. This film marks his debut as a feature director. Kent previously directed the 2016 stage version of the play. He worked with a cast that includes Ed Harris, Ben Foster, and Colin Morgan. The film adapts O’Neill’s classic work for the screen, focusing on the internal struggles of the Tyrone family.
Cast and Production Details
Jessica Lange takes on the role of Mary Tyrone, a matriarch battling addiction. Ed Harris portrays her husband, James, a man who built his success as an actor and property investor. Ben Foster plays the older son, Jamie, while Colin Morgan portrays the younger son, Edmund. David Lindsay-Abaire wrote the screenplay for this adaptation. Production credits go to Gabrielle Tana, Bill Kenwright, Gleb Fetisov, and Redmond Morris.
Kent expressed confidence in the ensemble cast. He noted that the film relies on the portrait of the family. According to Kent, the lead actors bring a level of skill to the screen that matches their theater experience. The production aims to preserve the weight of the original play while adapting the material for a visual medium.
The Director’s Path to Film
Jonathan Kent brings an extensive background in theater and opera to this project. He co-founded the Almeida Theatre in London in 1990. His work spans decades with productions in the West End, New York, and across Europe. Kent has received nominations for Tony and Olivier awards for his stage direction. He has directed major opera productions at the Royal Opera House and Mariinsky Theatre.
His shift to film signifies a transition from decades of stage work. The production team negotiated the rights with the goal of reaching broad audiences through the Quiver release. Kent remains busy with other projects, including a musical scheduled to open in Madrid in October 2026. This film stands as his first major entry into cinema directing after a career defined by live performance.
Industry Context and Release Strategy
Quiver Distribution officials, including Co-Presidents Berry Meyerowitz and Jeff Sackman, cited the quality of the performances as a driver for the acquisition. The distribution strategy relies on the prestige of the source material and the star power of the cast. The September release date positions the film in the early stages of the fall awards window.
This acquisition highlights the continued interest in prestige theater adaptations for film. Studios often turn to established stage plays to attract veteran actors and provide high-quality drama for adult audiences. The reception at the upcoming Lincoln Center screening will likely determine the momentum for the theatrical rollout. As the industry moves into the final quarter of 2026, the success of this film could serve as a model for similar mid-budget adult dramas.