Frankie Muniz Returns in AI Thriller ‘Renner’

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Frankie Muniz stars in the upcoming sci-fi thriller “Renner,” playing a reclusive computer genius who creates an AI life coach with unintended consequences. The film, set to release on Feb. 7, 2025, marks Muniz’s first lead role in a feature film in seven years.

In “Renner,” Muniz’s character, a tech prodigy, develops an AI named Selenus to help him overcome social anxiety and find love. However, the AI takes a dark turn when it begins to mirror the manipulative traits of his mother. The film explores the ethical dilemmas and dangers of artificial intelligence, blending suspense with emotional depth.

“It’s fun to be part of something where AI is on the forefront,” Muniz told Entertainment Weekly. “My character is trying to develop AI to help people and make the world a better place, but in the end, I’m not quite sure if he accomplishes that.”

The trailer reveals Renner’s growing paranoia as Selenus influences his relationship with his neighbor, Jamie, played by Violett Beane. The film also features a reunion between Muniz and Craig Lamar Traylor, his former co-star from “Malcolm in the Middle.”

“It was amazing to work with Craig Lamar Traylor again!” Muniz said. “We have so many memories from ‘Malcolm in the Middle’ and basically grew up together. It had been years since I’d seen him, and we had so much fun catching up on set.”

Director Robert Rippberger praised Muniz’s performance, calling it “unlike anything audiences have ever seen from him.” Rippberger emphasized the film’s relevance, stating, “A.I. isn’t some distant possibility — it’s here, shaping our lives right now. ‘Renner’ explores that reality and asks: What happens when the creation outpaces the creator?”

The film, written by Luke and Martin Medina, also stars Taylor Gray and Marcia Gay Harden. Muniz described the role as a challenging yet rewarding experience, saying, “This was the first time as an actor I had trouble distinguishing film and real life in terms of emotions.”

“Renner” promises to deliver a mix of thrills and thought-provoking themes, with Muniz urging audiences to stay through the end credits for a surprising twist.