Netflix Is Bringing Danny Boyle’s Ink To Screens — A Gripping New Drama About The Birth Of A Media Empire. Set in 1969, the film follows Rupert Murdoch and editor Larry Lamb as they attempt to transform The Sun, sparking a revolution in British journalism. Jack O’Connell, Guy Pearce and Claire Foy lead the cast in this adaptation of James Graham’s Tony-winning play. After opening the 83rd Venice International Film Festival, Ink arrives in select theaters December 11, 2026, before hitting Netflix January 8, 2027.

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Ink: Danny Boyle Brings the Birth of The Sun to the Big Screen

Danny Boyle’s latest film turns one of the most consequential chapters in British tabloid history into a fast-paced drama about ambition, power and the relentless pursuit of readers. Ink, adapted from James Graham’s Tony-winning play, stars Jack O’Connell as Larry Lamb, Guy Pearce as Rupert Murdoch and Claire Foy as Jules Davies.

The film explores the moment in 1969 when Rupert Murdoch acquired the struggling newspaper The Sun and brought Larry Lamb in as editor. Together with a team of unconventional journalists, Lamb set out to reshape the paper around bold headlines, provocative stories and a simple philosophy: give readers what they want. That transformation would ultimately change the direction of British tabloid journalism.

Danny Boyle's Rupert Murdoch Drama 'Ink' Starring Claire Foy & Guy Pearce Sets Netflix and Theatrical Release

A newspaper empire takes shape

At the heart of Ink is the uneasy partnership between Murdoch and Lamb. Murdoch, portrayed by Pearce, is the ambitious media owner looking to challenge the established order, while O’Connell’s Lamb is the tough, determined editor tasked with turning that vision into reality.

The story unfolds inside the frenetic world of the newsroom and printing press, where every headline carries the potential to increase circulation — and every decision raises questions about how far journalists should go to capture public attention.

Boyle approaches the material with the kinetic energy associated with his filmmaking, transforming the rise of a newspaper into a vivid portrait of ambition and media power. The film has also drawn attention for the way its story remains relevant to modern debates surrounding sensationalism, journalism and the influence of mass media.

Two men in dress shirts talk at a dimly-lit restaurant table surrounded by framed paintings and warm lighting, creating an intimate, vintage atmosphere.

Jack O’Connell, Guy Pearce and Claire Foy lead the cast

The film brings together a trio of acclaimed performers:

  • Jack O’Connell as Larry Lamb, known for Sinners and 28 Years Later
  • Guy Pearce as Rupert Murdoch, following roles in The Brutalist and L.A. Confidential
  • Claire Foy as Jules Davies, with credits including The Crown and First Man

Foy’s character, Jules Davies, is part of the newspaper’s editorial world alongside Lamb, adding another perspective to the rapidly changing newsroom.

From the stage to Venice

Ink: Cast, Release Date, Photos, Plot of New Danny Boyle Movie - Netflix Tudum

Ink is adapted by James Graham from his own acclaimed stage play, which originally explored the creation of The Sun and the relationship between Murdoch and Lamb.

The film made its world premiere on Sept. 2, 2026, as the opening film of the 83rd Venice International Film Festival.

Early reviews have already highlighted O’Connell’s performance and Boyle’s energetic approach to the material, with Rotten Tomatoes currently listing the film at 92% from 12 critic reviews.

When will Ink arrive on Netflix?

Following its Venice premiere, Ink will open in select theaters on Dec. 11, 2026. It will then arrive on Netflix in the United States and Latin America on Jan. 8, 2027.

For Boyle, Graham and the film’s cast, the story offers a dramatic look at how one newspaper’s transformation helped reshape the media landscape — and how the pursuit of attention can permanently change the way news is created and consumed.