Bob Odenkirk Stars in Ben Wheatley’s ‘Normal’ – A Violent Crime Thriller

Bob Odenkirk is back in action, this time as a temporary small-town sheriff in Ben Wheatley’s upcoming crime thriller, Normal. The film, penned by Derek Kolstad (known for his work on the John Wick franchise) and co-written with Odenkirk, promises a blend of suspense, dark humor, and visceral action.

Plot Summary

Normal centers on Ulysses (Bob Odenkirk), who steps in as the temporary sheriff of Normal, Minnesota, following the death of the previous sheriff. His quiet assignment is quickly disrupted when a bank robbery unravels a deeper criminal undercurrent within the seemingly peaceful town. The film explores the dark mysteries that lie beneath the surface of this idyllic community.

Cast and Crew

The film boasts a notable cast alongside Odenkirk, including Henry Winkler and Lena Headey. Key cast members and their roles include:

• Bob Odenkirk as Sheriff Ulysses
• Henry Winkler as Mayor Kibner of Normal
• Lena Headey as Moira
• Reena Jolly as Lori
• Brendan Fletcher as Keith

Behind the camera, Normal is directed by Ben Wheatley, known for his genre-bending films. The cinematography is by Armando Salas, with editing by Jonathan Amos and a musical score composed by Harry Gregson-Williams and Ryder McNair.

Production Details

Normal premiered at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in the Midnight Madness program on September 7, 2025. Derek Kolstad initially wrote the script prior to working on Nobody, and the project evolved through discussions with Bob Odenkirk. The film is a collaboration between OPE Partners, QWGmire Bonus Productions, Tradecraft Productions, and Le Foole Inc.

Release Information

Normal is scheduled for theatrical release in the United States on April 17, 2026, distributed by Magnolia Pictures. Amazon MGM Studios will handle distribution in Canada. The film has a runtime of 90 minutes and is filmed in both English and Japanese.

Reception

Early reviews suggest Normal delivers a “bone-crunching good time,” with Odenkirk solidifying his position as an action star. The film’s energetic reception at TIFF indicates a strong potential for success with audiences.