Actor Joel Courtney, known for "Super 8" and "The Kissing Booth" franchise, will star in and produce "Echo," a psychological thriller that marks the feature directorial debut of TikTok creator Zac Stracener. The project matters as a notable crossover between social media and film, with Stracener leveraging his online following to launch his own production company and directing career, while Courtney takes on his first-ever producing credit.

Stracener, who has 1.3 million TikTok followers, also wrote the script, which centres on a character-driven story exploring the experiences of military veterans. "Echo" will be the debut release for Stracener's new banner, Carousel Films, co-produced with Briana Frapart, alongside several executive producers. Stracener previously gained recognition for his short film "Forever Sleep," shortlisted at the 2023 Cannes Lions Festival, and was named to TikTok's inaugural Showbiz List in 2022. Casting is under way, with principal photography set to begin later this year.