Hemsworth's most recent appearance was in the first season of the HBO TV series Westworld. Currently shooting in Georgia, it is being directed by industry veteran Paul J. Salamoff. Salamoff has worked in make-up FX on over 40 films, while also serving as a writer in multiple media formats. Written by Salamoff, the script is said to be inspired by The Twilight Zone. The plot synopsis is as follows:
"A group of friends make a remarkable discovery in a rural field – a crashed spacecraft - And there’s a survivor. But when they bring the otherworldly being home, they soon discover that it holds even greater secrets than they could imagine. But with the government on their tail, time is running out to ascertain the alien’s true intentions."
Salamoff says that:
“We are all very excited to bring this unique and exciting modern day science fiction story to life. The world of Encounter is a nod back to classic Sci-Fi movies of the 70’s and 80’s. Its fresh approach offers a new twist on science fiction’s strengths of exploring very human themes of loss, grief in an unexpected and thought-provoking way.”
The rest of the cast includes Anna Hutchison (Cabin in the Woods), Tom Atkins (My Bloody Valentine), Glenn Keogh (Transformers: Age of Extinction), Vincent M. Ward (The Walking Dead), Cheryl Texiera (It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia) and Christopher Showerman (Supergirl).
This is the first feature length film for Augusta-basted production company Beyond Casual Media, with worldwide sales and distribution being handled by Lightning Entertainment. Executive Producer and studio veteran Robert Hollocks says that:
“The reaction to Encounter has been incredible. It's intelligent, smart and terrific on every level. As an Exec. Producer it’s the kind of material you always hope to find. I’m proud to be part of the team bringing it to fruition.”