Amazon MGM Studios is moving forward with a new comedy film titled Compulsive Liar, featuring acclaimed actors Kumail Nanjiani and Emily V. Gordon. The studio has confirmed that Nanjiani will star in the film, which is based on the Quebec comedy Menteur. According to a report by Deadline, production will be handled by 21 Laps and Gaumont, with Gordon and Nanjiani serving as executive producers alongside various industry veterans.
The film’s premise centers around Simon, a habitual liar whose family and colleagues attempt an intervention when his fabrications spiral out of control. When Simon rejects their help, he experiences a surreal twist: every lie he has told becomes a reality. The original Menteur was written by Émile Gaudreault, Éric K. Boulianne, and Sébastien Ravary, and directed by Gaudreault himself.
Background on Nanjiani and Gordon
This project marks another collaboration for Nanjiani and Gordon, whose previous work on The Big Sick earned them an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay. The Big Sick not only received critical acclaim but also won multiple awards, such as Best First Screenplay at the Film Independent Spirit Awards and Best Comedy at the Critics Choice Awards.
In 2024, Gordon and Nanjiani launched their production company, Winter Coat, which secured a first-look deal with Sony Television. Nanjiani is currently promoting his new stand-up special titled Night Thoughts, set to premiere on Hulu on December 19, 2024. His extensive television credits include roles in popular series like Only Murders in the Building, Poker Face, and Silicon Valley.
Production Team and Future Projects
The adaptation of Compulsive Liar is overseen by Emily Feher for 21 Laps. Alongside Nanjiani and Gordon, producers include Shawn Levy and Dan Levine for 21 Laps, and Nicolas Atlan and Sidonie Dumas for Gaumont.
As audiences eagerly await further details about the film’s release and development, Nanjiani’s upcoming projects also include films such as Ella McCay, Driver’s Ed, and The Breadwinner. With the combination of Nanjiani’s comedic talent and Gordon’s writing prowess, Compulsive Liar is anticipated to deliver a fresh take on the comedy genre, building on their successful collaborative history.
