Apple TV+ has officially secured the rights to Five Secrets, a new action thriller that drew attention from multiple studios. The film will be produced with Chernin Entertainment, expanding Apple’s growing list of original movies.
Written by Andrew Barrer and Gabriel Ferrari, the screenplay is based on an unpublished short story by Julianna Baggott. Industry insiders say the script sparked early buzz for its gripping concept, prompting Apple to act quickly before an all-out bidding war began.
A Thriller About Control and Secrets
The story centers on Hedrick, a professional mercenary who extracts people’s deepest secrets. In the film’s world, everyone hides five secrets, and knowing even one gives power over them. After years of manipulation and violence, Hedrick decides he wants to leave that life behind.
However, walking away from his work isn’t easy. He takes on one last mission — a dangerous job that forces him to protect both a crucial secret and his own.
The movie promises a blend of psychological depth and action, a style Apple TV+ has successfully delivered in shows like Severance and Slow Horses.
Apple Strengthens Its Partnership with Chernin
Chernin Entertainment, founded by Peter Chernin in 2009, is no stranger to Apple’s ecosystem. The company previously produced Truth Be Told, a popular Apple TV+ drama that ran for three seasons. In June 2025, Chernin signed a first-look deal with Apple to develop more original content.
The deal for Five Secrets arrives shortly after Apple’s theatrical experiment with F1, leading to questions about its future release strategy. Apple has not confirmed whether the new thriller will premiere in theaters or exclusively on streaming.
A Move Toward Original Storytelling
Apple continues to position itself as a serious player in entertainment. By securing Five Secrets, it reinforces its focus on original, story-driven films with high production value. The movie’s mix of tension, mystery, and emotional conflict could make it one of Apple TV+’s standout releases in 2026.
