‘Severance’ Star and Four-Time Oscar Nominee Jane Alexander to Lead Comedy-Drama ‘Lillian, Next Door,’ WME Independent Boards Sales

Veteran actress Jane Alexander, a four-time Oscar nominee known for roles in 'Kramer vs. Kramer' and the series 'Severance,' will star in the upcoming comedy-drama 'Lillian, Next Door,' with production beginning this month in Nova Scotia under the direction of SXSW Audience Award-winning filmmaker Janice Engel. The casting news was announced as part of the sales launch for the independent film, which WME Independent has boarded to handle international distribution rights. The project marks a significant return to a leading film role for Alexander, whose distinguished career spans over five decades and includes acclaimed performances in 'All the President's Men,' 'Testament,' and 'The Great White Hope,' the latter of which earned her a Tony Award. Director Janice Engel, recognized for her documentary work including 'Raise Hell: The Life & Times of Molly Ivins,' will be making her narrative feature debut with this project, signaling a notable expansion of her filmmaking repertoire. Filming in Nova Scotia leverages the Canadian province's film production incentives and scenic locations, which have become increasingly popular for Hollywood and independent productions alike. The involvement of WME Independent, a major sales agency, indicates strong market confidence in the project's commercial potential, particularly given Alexander's enduring prestige and Engel's festival pedigree. The film's genre blend of comedy and drama suggests a character-driven story likely to showcase Alexander's range in what industry observers anticipate could be an awards-contending role. While specific plot details for 'Lillian, Next Door' remain under wraps, the combination of an esteemed actress with a director transitioning from documentary success to narrative features creates compelling artistic synergy. The production timeline suggests a potential festival premiere in late 2025 or early 2026, with international buyers getting their first look at the project during upcoming film markets.