Beast: release date, plot, cast, trailer and everything we know (2024)

Beast sees Idris Elba taking on an entirely new on-screen enemy: a large, ferocious lion who's become incredibly territorial and will stop at nothing to prove he's the one in charge.

Previously we've seen Idris Elba fighting supervillains in The Suicide Squad and Thor where he played the roles of Bloodsport and the Norse god Heimdall, but now he stars as Dr. Nate Samuels, a wildlife biologist taking a trip with his family.

His South African trip is important to him and it also gives him the opportunity to reconnect with an old friend, but as you can imagine, their peaceful safari is soon disrupted when an alpha-male lion makes his presence known.

The movie is directed by Icelandic director Baltasar Kormákur who is known for Netflix series Katla as well as films such as Everest and Adrift.

Here's everything you need to know about Beast...

Beast release date

Beast is released in US theaters on August 19, with the UK release following just a few days later on August 26 2022.

What is the movie Beast about?

The official plot via Universal reads: "Recently widowed Dr. Nate Daniels (Idris Elba) and his two teenage daughters travel to a South African game reserve managed by Martin Battles (Sharlto Copley), an old family friend and wildlife biologist.

"However, what begins as a journey of healing soon turns into a fearsome fight for survival when a lion, a survivor of bloodthirsty poachers, begins stalking them."

Who is in the cast of Beast?

Beast stars Idris Elba as Nate alongside Iyana Halley and Leah Sava Jeffries who plays his daughters Meredith and Norah. Meanwhile, Sharlto Copleyis Martin Battles and Riley Keoughplays a character called Savanna.

Other cast includes Melanie Jarnson, Damon Burtley, Robby MacIsaac and Billy Gallagher.

What is the run time of Beast?

Beast has a run time of 1 hour and 33 minutes.

Is Beast rated R/18?

Yes, Beastis rated R by the MPAA For violent content, bloody images and some language. In the UK it has a 15 rating.

Is the movie Beast a remake?

No, Beast is not a remake and is based on a story byJaime Primak Sullivan. The screenplay was written by Ryan Engle.

Is there a trailer?

Yes, a terrifying first trailer for Beast has been released and gives us a look at the lion in action, with plenty of tense moments as our characters try to survive out in the wild.

It starts out nice, with the Samuels arriving and reminiscing about their late wife and mother, but peace is soon disrupted once the lion makes his presence known and we even see Idris Elba trying to take a swing at the king of the jungle! You can watch below...