David Koepp Says Spielberg’s New Sci-Fi Film Is “Very Emotional” But Still Under Wraps

Steven Spielberg’s next movie is already finished filming, but it’s still mostly a mystery. The film is expected to be a sci-fi story, and it’s based on an idea Spielberg came up with himself. Longtime writing partner David Koepp wrote the script, and fans are already curious about what’s to come.

The project was first reported in April 2024, and since then, not much has been revealed. However, it’s confirmed that big names like Emily Blunt, Colin Firth, Eve Hewson, and Colman Domingo are part of the cast. Universal Pictures plans to release the movie in theaters on May 15, 2026.

In a recent interview with Deadline, Koepp talked a bit more about the movie. He was attending the premiere of Jurassic World Rebirth when asked about the film’s title. “Not that we’re talking about… not that we’ve released,” he said, keeping it vague.

People have been guessing that the movie is about UFOs, but Koepp didn’t say yes or no. Instead, he focused on the film’s emotional side. “What he does so brilliantly is that he combines a vast spectacle with really honest, human emotion,” Koepp explained. “Unlike, I think, any other director—it’s a very emotional experience, this movie.”

Screenwriter and Steven Spielberg’s longtime collaborator David Koepp on the upcoming Untitled Steven Spielberg Film, which he penned: “We finished shooting about 3 weeks ago… It’s a very emotional experience this movie” pic.twitter.com/INsL7KR3wD

— Deadline (@DEADLINE) June 18, 2025

He also shared that Spielberg was deeply involved in the writing process. Koepp said the director started with a 50-page story draft before the script was completed. “He was the most involved as he’s been on any movie I’ve written for him to direct,” he noted.

In a separate interview, Koepp gave another clue about the movie’s style. He said the project felt like a return to Spielberg’s older sci-fi roots. “It does harken back to maybe a different tone than [what he’s done lately]. Something he used to do that he hasn’t done for a little bit,” he said.

While the story and title are still under wraps, the team behind it and the early hints suggest a movie that might feel similar to Spielberg’s past classics. With strong emotions and large-scale scenes promised, fans have plenty to look forward to.

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