Joel Courtney (“Super 8,” “The Kissing Booth” franchise) will star in and produce “Echo,” a psychological thriller that marks the directorial debut of popular TikTok creator Zac Stracener.

Stracener, who has 1.3 million followers on the short video platform, also wrote the independent film, which is described as “a character-driven thriller that delves into the complex landscape of military veterans,” according to its synopsis. “Echo” will mark the first production credit for Courtney and continues the creative collaboration between him and Stracener, with the duo already hosting the film podcast “The Long Cut.”

“Echo” will be the first feature film from Stracener’s production company Carousel Films, along with producer and casting director Briana Frapart (“Cut Your Teeth,” “Somnium”). Executive producers include Chris Frederick, Alex Moeller, Joshua Azran, Lorenzo Abbatiello, OneBridge Data Solutions and Sumax Properties.

Stracener’s short film, “Forever Sleep,” was shortlisted for the Young Director Award at the 2023 Cannes Lions Festival and was included in TikTok’s inaugural 2022 Entertainment List, which highlights creators making waves in the entertainment industry. His TikTok account, which focuses on mental health awareness with a cinematic twist, has racked up millions of views online and he has also worked with brands such as Jockey, Microsoft, Liquid Death, Nascar and The Northface.

“We are thrilled to launch Carousel Films with Zac’s exciting script and to have Joel on board both in front of and behind the camera,” said Jake Shull, co-founder and producer of Carousel Films. “To move forward independently with such a powerful story is a testament to the team we have built. We look forward to sharing more when the time is right.”

Casting is currently underway and principal photography will begin later this year.

Courtney is represented by Authentic and Gersh. Legal representation of “Echo” is provided by Ashley Reddy of AR Entertainment Law.