Nicolas Cage and Christian Bale are taking on two of the biggest names in NFL history in the first trailer for director David O. Russell’s upcoming sports biopic Madden. The two veteran actors look completely unrecognizable in the Amazon MGM Studios’ trailer released on Thursday, September 24.
The trailer follows Madden’s journey from an NFL coach dealing with a fear of flying to one of the most recognizable voices in sports. Cage’s performance captures Madden’s loud sideline presence, strong personality, and famous broadcasting style as the story moves through several stages of his career.
The movie also explores Madden’s relationship with Al Davis, with their partnership helping lead the Raiders to a Super Bowl XI victory. Their connection becomes a major part of the story as Madden moves beyond coaching and builds a successful career in television.
The film then follows Madden’s role in the creation of the Madden NFL video game series. His name and football knowledge became the foundation of a major video game franchise, helping turn his connection with the sport into a much larger part of popular culture.
Russell, whose previous films include Silver Linings Playbook and The Fighter, directs the movie from a script he co-wrote with Cambron Clark. Running for one hour and 50 minutes, Madden combines sports history, comedy, and drama while focusing on the very different personalities of its two central figures.
Check out the Madden trailer below.
Inside the cast bringing John Madden and Al Davis to the big screen
Kathryn Hahn plays Virginia Madden, John’s wife, who remained an important part of his life during his coaching career and later transitioned into broadcasting. Sienna Miller portrays Carol Davis, Al Davis’ wife and close confidante.
The cast also includes comedians John Mulaney and Shane Gillis in supporting roles, adding to the movie’s look at the world surrounding the NFL during Madden and Davis’ careers. Mulaney plays EA (Electronic Arts) founder Trip Hawkins, who famously pitched Madden on the groundbreaking 11-on-11 video game concept.
Todd Black, Jason Blumenthal, Steve Tisch, and Russell produced the film alongside NFL Films and Skydance Sports.
Madden opens in select theaters on November 11, 2026. The movie will then be available worldwide on Prime Video beginning November 18, 2026.
