• Mads Mikkelsen is in talks to join Martin Scorsese’s Apple-backed thriller What Happens At Night.
• The film already stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence; Rodrigo Prieto is confirmed as cinematographer.
• The movie adapts Peter Cameron’s novel, with a screenplay by Patrick Marber; production is set for February in the Czech Republic.
Casting update: Mikkelsen boards Scorsese’s thriller
Mads Mikkelsen is the latest high-profile name linked to Martin Scorsese’s What Happens At Night, joining a cast that already includes Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence. Sources say the Danish actor — known for Hannibal, Casino Royale, The Hunt and Another Round — is in talks to play one of the enigmatic figures the central couple encounter at a remote European hotel.
What the story is about
What Happens At Night adapts Peter Cameron’s novel. The story follows an American couple traveling to a snowy European town to adopt a baby. They stay at the Borgarfjaroasysla Grand Imperial Hotel, a nearly deserted place filled with strange, larger-than-life guests: a flamboyant singer, a corrupt businessman, and a magnetic faith healer. Those encounters test the couple’s marriage and grip on reality.
Role speculation and Mikkelsen’s likely part
While details on Mikkelsen’s character haven’t been officially released, industry reports suggest he could play the unnamed “debauched businessman” — a role described as possibly Scandinavian in origin. Mikkelsen’s track record of elevating complex supporting and antagonist roles makes him a logical fit for the film’s mysterious ensemble.
Creative team and production plans
Apple is producing the film, with the screenplay adapted by Patrick Marber (Closer). Four-time Oscar nominee Rodrigo Prieto is reported to return as Scorsese’s cinematographer. Production is scheduled to begin in February in the Czech Republic, with more casting announcements expected as Scorsese moves into prep.
Why this matters for DiCaprio fans and leo-focused searches
What Happens At Night adds to Leonardo DiCaprio’s long list of high-profile collaborations with iconic directors. For readers searching for leonardo dicaprio movies, this project is notable: it pairs DiCaprio with Jennifer Lawrence under Scorsese’s direction and brings another acclaimed actor — Mads Mikkelsen — into the mix.
What’s next
As Scorsese finalizes prep, watch for official casting confirmations and a first production schedule. With the novel’s uncanny tone and Scorsese’s interest in psychologically charged material, expectations are high for a suspenseful, actor-driven film.
Sources: industry reports and initial coverage from World of Reel and The InSneider.
Image Referance: https://www.worldofreel.com/blog/2025/12/19/mads-mikkelsen-joins-martin-scorseses-what-happens-at-night
