Ian McKellen and Michaela Coel lead Steven Soderbergh’s The Christophers to digital release this July

Steven Soderbergh’s latest feature, The Christophers, arrives on digital platforms to buy or rent from 20ᵗʰ July, bringing the acclaimed filmmaker’s art-world comedy-drama to home audiences following its theatrical release.

Written by frequent Soderbergh collaborator Ed Solomon, the film stars Sir Ian McKellen as Julian Sklar, a once-renowned artist whose estranged children hatch an elaborate plan to secure their inheritance. They recruit Lori (Michaela Coel), a struggling painter and talented art forger, to pose as Julian’s assistant and gain access to a legendary series of unfinished paintings hidden inside his London home.

As Lori spends more time with the reclusive artist, what begins as a carefully orchestrated deception develops into an unexpected relationship, with the film exploring questions of artistic legacy, authenticity and authorship.

McKellen and Coel are joined by Jessica Gunning and James Corden in the ensemble cast.

Our reviewer praised the film as “a welcome showcase for two performers across generational divides”, highlighting the “real, unexpected chemistry” between McKellen and Coel, while noting that Soderbergh’s latest feature raises timely questions about creativity, originality and the value of art.

The editorial unit

The Christophers will be available to buy or rent on digital platforms on 20^th July 2026. Read our review here.

Watch the trailer for The Christophers here: