EXCLUSIVE: Sean Astin (The Lord of the Rings) has taken his first starring role since winning the SAG-AFTRA presidency.

In the Scrooge-inspired indie pic Scruggs, Astin will star opposite Calvin Kassab, who plays the titular character, and serves as executive producer. Also starring are Donnell Clayton (Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F), Andrew Dawe-Collins (Pitchfork) and opera singer Sarah Catherine Moore in her film debut.

Sam Logan Khaleghi is the producer on Scruggs, which is headed to the Cannes Market. Kassab Pictures is making it in association with SLK Media Group, with Zachary Ruda directing in a freshman effort. Production recently wrapped in Detroit, Michigan, with a plan to release during the 2026 festive season.

The film reimagines Charles Dickens’ novel A Christmas Carol as an “edgy modern-day take filled with outrageous characters, as it follows a greedy real estate mogul, Edward Scruggs, on a magical journey with three larger-than-life spirits on Christmas Eve,” per the producers.

“I am thrilled and elated to have the absolute honor of such an amazing cast,” said producer Khaleghi. “We have a diverse corps of talent that delivers both comedy and drama perfectly in our gritty contemporary take that still maintains the traditions and customs of the original literature.”

“We live in a world that needs more empathy,” added Kassab. “The Scrooge archetype is about compassion through shared human moments.”

Astin is represented by Jay Schachter at Stewart Talent, Luber Roklin and Brecheen Feldman Breimer Silver & Thompson, LLP.