In the Croatian capital, Zagreb, in August 2026, a large-scale film set for the new political action thriller "Snake Island" (Ostrvo Zmijinski) has unfolded. The event caused a wide resonance not only among filmmakers but also among local residents, who witnessed the transformation of the city's central streets into the sets of a military conflict. At the center of the film's plot is one of the most discussed sabotage acts of modern times: the explosion of the Nord Stream gas pipelines in the Baltic Sea.
Filming in the center of Zagreb: military equipment and barricades
The filming process, which began back in July, covered key locations in the Croatian capital. The main location became the square in front of the famous Esplanade Hotel and Mihanović Street. To create an authentic atmosphere, directors and production designers did not skimp on sets: barricades, sandbags, and real military equipment appeared on the streets. Local residents, used to a peaceful rhythm of life, watched with surprise as "armed" men in Ukrainian military uniforms appeared on the streets, adding a surreal touch to the city.
Star cast and directorial approach
The project is being worked on by a quintet of world-class talents. The director's chair is occupied by Doug Liman, known for his work in the spy action genre ("The Bourne Identity", "Mr. & Mrs. Smith"). The leading roles feature two Oscar-winning actors: Sean Penn and Adrien Brody. On the day of filming near the Esplanade Hotel, both artists were spotted, confirming their active participation in the project. The film promises to be a sharp political statement, exploring themes of sabotage and international security against the backdrop of the 2022 Russian-Ukrainian conflict.
Plot: a secret team of divers
The film's plot revolves around the theory of the involvement of a secret team of Ukrainian divers in the explosions on "Nord Stream" that occurred on September 26, 2022. This makes the film not just an entertainment product, but a provocative work touching on unresolved issues of modern geopolitics. The premiere date is not yet disclosed, but the industry is already anticipating a loud release capable of sparking heated discussions.
Political context and actors' positions
The participation of Sean Penn and Adrien Brody in the project is not accidental. Both actors are known for their active civic stance and support for Ukraine. Adrien Brody, in March 2023, recorded a video address to Ukrainians, expressing solidarity with people experiencing the war. Sean Penn went even further: since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, he has repeatedly visited Ukraine, met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and worked on a documentary about the war. In March 2026, Penn even skipped the Oscar ceremony, where he received his third statuette for Best Supporting Actor in the film "One Battle After Another," to personally travel to Kyiv.
Contradictory data
Although the filming of the film is confirmed by visual materials and eyewitness accounts, the plot details and the exact release date remain the subject of speculation. Some sources indicate that the film may be based on a fictional version of events, while others suggest that the script relies on real investigations. In addition, the exact premiere date has not yet been announced, leaving room for speculation regarding the timing of the film's release.
Conclusion
The film "Snake Island" is becoming not just a cinematic event, but an important cultural phenomenon reflecting the tension of international relations. Filming in Zagreb, the participation of a star cast, and a sharp political plot make this project one of the most anticipated thrillers of 2026. We are left waiting to see when viewers will be able to see how Doug Liman and his team interpret one of the most mysterious events of recent years.
