Alex Hedison is making a comeback to the big screen with the upcoming film Ponchik, which marks filmmaker Natalie Shirinian's directorial debut. She will join Angela Sarafyan in the film which is set to underline the complexities of Armenians.
While Hedison plays a scholar in Ponchik, Sarafyan portrays an aspiring writer.
Expressing her joy on onboarding the project, Hedison said in a statement, "It’s exciting for me to support Natalie’s vision as writer/director on this incredible project. Her immense talent combined with an unwavering commitment to center stories about our Armenian community made it an immediate yes. I can’t wait to jump in and help bring this meaningful story to life."
Ponchik explores the journey of a 30-year-old Armenian American, portrayed by Sarafyan, who lives with her immigrant parents in the Little Armenia district of Los Angeles. As she navigates life, she struggles to balance her deep-rooted Armenian traditions, family relationships, and her true sense of self.
True to the casting, Hedison, Sarafyan, and Shirinian all have Armenian heritage. Sharing her excitement on having Hedison on board, Shirinian said, "I’m thrilled to have Alex on board. She is a creative force. I wrote this role for her and love working with her. What excites me even more, is for us to band together and break the stereotype of how Armenians are portrayed in mainstream media."
The film is set to go on floors later this year or early 2026 and marks Hedison and Shirinian’s second time joining hands after the former's 2024 documentary Alok which was executive produced by her wife Jodie Foster.
