EXCLUSIVE: Cognition has signed Scottish actor Grant O’Rourke following the award-winning Sundance debut of The Incomer, a comedy presenting him with a breakout role alongside Domhnall Gleeson and Gayle Rankin.
Marking the feature debut of Louis Paxton, who directed from his own script, The Incomer premiered in the NEXT section of this year’s festival, where it took home the Innovator Award, and was recently acquired by Sumerian Pictures for a North American theatrical release.
Set on a remote Scottish island, the film follows siblings Isla (Rankin) and Sandy (O’Rourke), who spend their days hunting birds, conversing with mythical beings, and fiercely fending off outsiders. Their eccentric existence is suddenly upended when Daniel (Gleeson), an awkward official, arrives with orders to relocate them.
Previously, O’Rourke had a major role alongside fellow Cognition clients Caitríona Balfe and Tobias Menzies in Starz’s historical fantasy series Outlander, based on the book series by Diana Gabaldon. He continues to be represented by Independent Talent in the UK.
Founded in 2022 by former WME partner Brian DePersia, Cognition also reps the likes of Mahershala Ali and Jimmi Simpson and is coming off the signing of Moon Choi, whose Sundance prize-winner Bedford Park was acquired by Sony Pictures Classics out of this year’s festival.