Newton Mayenge to Lead Time-Bomb Feature Thriller ‘MANACLE’

Winning Time actor Newton Mayenge will star in the ticking time-bomb thriller feature film, Manacle, from Director/Writer Justin Galindo (Loco).

The story follows Detective Mills (Mayenge), a driven yet conflicted investigator, as he is thrust into a high-stakes case when a decorated soldier, David Martin, wakes to a nightmare — strapped with explosives and desperate to save his kidnapped daughter. With many lives hanging in the balance, Mills must work with David to untangle a web of deception and uncover the identity of the mysterious abductor. As the clock ticks down, the two men must navigate deception, guilt, and impossible odds — racing to bring the young girl home before time runs out.

Justin Galindo (photo by Bradford Rogne) and Natasha Ward (photo by Lechon Kirb)

Galindo will produce the project under his JIG Reel Studios banner, alongside Mayenge and veteran casting director Natasha Ward (La Fridge, Kold X Windy).

Principal photography is slated to being early 2026 in Oklahoma City.

Newton Mayenge is best known for his role as NBA Legend Jim Chones in the celebrated HBO series Winning Time, alongside 2-time Oscar winner Adrien Brody. He recently wrapped principal photography on the feature film The Other Side of Fame. He can be seen next in the drama Leave, set for a theatrical release in January 2026. Newton Mayenge is represented by Pallas Management Group and Feig Finkel Entertainment Law Firm.

Justin Galindo is an award-winning director, writer, and producer steering the creative vision of JIG Reel Studios, a leading Los Angeles demo reel production company. Known for his innovative storytelling and visual creativity, he has worked with top-tier companies including Disney, HBO, and MTV, on numerous films, music videos, and commercials. He recently directed the Amazon Prime feature film Loco, starring Maestro Harrell and Geffri Maya.

Natasha Ward is a distinguished casting director, producer, and acting coach with over 200 credits. She began producing films in 2016, with the SXSW film 9 Rides as a notable early project. She cast and co-produced the drama Brownies, alongside executive producer Spike Lee and writer-director Aisha Ford, which earned a 2024 Diversity in Cannes Shorts. Ward is a member of the Casting Society of America (CSA).