Kiefer Sutherland is set to star in action thriller Sierra Madre.

The story centers on Sutherland’s Captain Jordan Wright and his squadron, who are granted leave from their mission to attend a crewmate’s wedding in Mexico. While there, festivities are interrupted by a murderous cartel, and, as Jordan attempts to lead his remaining men to safety, war breaks out between his squad and the cartel. Jordan has to engage in a full-scale battle to save his men.

The project, which is being sold out of the Cannes film market by Highland Film Group, is set to be directed by Justin Chadwick from a script by and Delbert Hancock and The Grey writer Ian Mackenzie Jeffers. Production is due to start this fall in Colombia, with Robert Stein (The Call), James Keach (Walk the Line) and Griff Furst (Devil’s Peak) producing.

Highland Film Group is co-financing the action thriller and handling worldwide rights, selling it at the Marché du Film.

“I’m thrilled to be joining the team on Sierra Madre, led by director Justin Chadwick. I feel it is a compelling thriller with great emotional and dramatic opportunities. Or more simply put, a damn good story,” said Sutherland.

“Sutherland will capture the intensity and physicality of a leader fighting to keep his squad alive, embodying the spirit of brotherhood that pulsates throughout this story,” said Highland Film Group CEO Arianne Fraser. Added COO Delphine Perrier:“Set in the exotic and remote landscape of Mexico, Sierra Madre shows a poignant narrative of heart and heroism. With Justin Chadwick at the helm, known for his skill in directing talent and his performance-driven approach, we are eager to see his remarkable vision come to life.”

Highland’s slate includes Renny Harlin’s crime thriller The Postcard Killer starring Jeffrey Dean Morgan and William Eubank’s action thriller Land of Bad starring Russell Crowe.

Sutherland, repped by CAA, Entertainment 360, and Lichter Grossman, most recently worked on Clint Eastwood’s latest drama Juror #2.

by Mai Galuppo, The Hollywood Reporter