Afterburn the Movie Gets Its First Trailer! Bautista’s Post-Apocalyptic Thriller Ignites Hype

Afterburn the Movie gets its first Trailer! The explosive first look at Dave Bautista’s upcoming sci-fi action thriller Afterburn dropped on July 2, 2025, and it’s already setting the internet ablaze.

Directed by J.J. Perry, this post-apocalyptic adventure, based on the Red 5 Comics series, promises a high-octane treasure hunt through a world ravaged by a solar flare. Starring Bautista, Samuel L. Jackson, Olga Kurylenko, and Kristofer Hivju, the trailer teases intense action, a gritty dystopian vibe, and a quest for the Mona Lisa.

In this article, we break down the trailer’s key moments, analyze its potential, and explore why Afterburn is shaping up to be a 2025 must-watch.

What Is Afterburn About?

Set a decade after a massive solar flare wipes out Earth’s technology and devastates the Eastern Hemisphere, Afterburn follows Jake (Dave Bautista), an ex-soldier turned treasure hunter.

His latest mission: recover the Mona Lisa before a warlord claims it. Joined by freedom fighters Valentine (Samuel L. Jackson) and Drea (Olga Kurylenko), Jake navigates a mutant-filled, post-apocalyptic Europe.

The story, adapted from the Red 5 Comics series by Scott Chitwood, Paul Ens, and Wayne Nichols, blends Indiana Jones adventure with Children of Men’s dystopian grit.

The trailer, released by Endurance Media, showcases a world of “strong bloody violence and language,” earning an R rating from the MPA. Filming wrapped in June 2024 in Bratislava, Slovakia, with practical stunts and a comic-faithful tone.

Trailer Breakdown: Key Moments and Highlights

The Afterburn trailer is a 2-minute adrenaline rush, packed with action and intrigue. Here are the standout moments that have fans buzzing:

• Post-Apocalyptic Chaos: The trailer opens with sweeping shots of a ruined Europe, scarred by radiation and mutants. A gritty voice-over declares, “The world is a gladiatorial arena,” setting a brutal tone.

• Dave Bautista as Jake: Bautista’s Jake is a battle-hardened treasure hunter, wielding guns and grit. A car chase with explosions and a humorous fight scene hint at his charisma and physicality.

• Star-Studded Cast: Samuel L. Jackson’s Valentine delivers sharp one-liners, while Olga Kurylenko’s Drea shines in combat. Kristofer Hivju’s role remains mysterious, adding intrigue.

• Mona Lisa Heist: The quest for the Mona Lisa drives the plot, with rival hunters and pirates in pursuit. A “War Train” battle sequence teases epic set pieces.

• Practical Stunts: Director J.J. Perry, known for Day Shift, uses real stunts, including a gun battle at an abandoned nickel smelter, for visceral action.

These highlights make Afterburn a thrilling blend of sci-fi, action, and comedy, with a tone that honors its comic roots while appealing to blockbuster fans.

Why the Trailer Is Generating Buzz?

The trailer’s release sparked a frenzy on X, with posts praising its “action-packed” and “bloody” vibe. Fans of Bautista, fresh off The Killer’s Game, are hyped for his leading role, while Jackson’s presence adds gravitas.

Producer Toby Jaffe’s comparison to Indiana Jones and Children of Men has raised expectations for a smart, thrilling narrative.

The comic’s creators visited the Slovakia set and noted the crew’s fidelity to the source material, using the comic for visual inspiration.

With new comic volumes (Afterburn: Crossfire and Bad Blood) timed for the film’s release, the franchise is poised for a multi-media takeover.

Production Challenges and Triumphs

Afterburn’s journey to the screen wasn’t smooth. Initially announced in 2012 with Tommy Wirkola and Gerard Butler attached, it stalled until J.J. Perry took over in 2024. A fraud scandal involving backer Tristian Peter, who failed to deliver $7.5 million, led to a $7.7 million arbitration win for Fourth Chance Productions in May 2025.

Despite these hurdles, filming wrapped on June 27, 2024, and the trailer proves the team’s resilience.

With producers Neal H. Moritz (Fast and Furious) and Bautista’s Dogbone Entertainment backing the project, Afterburn has the pedigree to deliver. Composer Roque Baños’ score and Luke Dunkley’s editing add polish to Perry’s action expertise.

When and Where to Watch Afterburn

No official release date is confirmed, but Afterburn is slated for a 2025 theatrical release, with August 21, 2025, announced for German theaters.

The film awaits a U.S. distributor, but streaming options like Hulu, Amazon Prime, or Netflix may follow. Stay tuned for updates on digital and physical releases.

Why Afterburn Could Be a 2025 Hit?

Afterburn combines a stellar cast, a unique premise, and J.J. Perry’s action pedigree. The trailer’s mix of humor, violence, and high-stakes treasure hunting appeals to fans of Mad Max and Raiders of the Lost Ark.

With Bautista’s star power and the comic’s cult following, the film could dominate the 2025 box office.Don’t miss Afterburn when it hits theaters!

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