A film depicting one of the most notorious social experiments in American history is finally in the works. An exclusive from The Wrap states that Michael Angarano, Ezra Miller, and Billy Crudup will be contributing their talents to Stanford Prison Experiment, portraying human nature at its worst.

The infamous psychological study involved 24 male university students who were assigned roles as prisoners and prison guards, and were instructed to interact accordingly. The results were more ruthless and barbaric than anticipated, and the simple experiment escalated to become one of the most iconic studies in the world of psychology, eventually catching the attention of Congress.

Crudup will be playing Dr. Philip Zimbardo, the mind behind the experiment. Although casting details have not been disclosed about Angarano and Miller, it is likely that the young actors will portray student participants. Crudup has been seen in many renowned films, including Big Fish and Almost Famous, yet this could be the film that validates his potential as a notable lead actor. Miller has found rapid success in his young career, with very few questioning his talent. He is attached to an adaptation of the classic Flaubert novel, Madame Bovary, releasing next month. Keeping in mind Miller’s impactful demonstration of sinister, psychopathic behavior in the 2011 drama We Need to Talk About Kevin, it’s safe to assume that he will adapt strongly to a role in a film of this strain. Reuniting with Crudup after their work together in Almost Famous, Angarano has held a diverse range of roles in films catered to both child and adult audiences. He is also featured in the Cinemax original series The Knick. 

Given the current state of the American prison system and the scrutinization of judicial morality, not to mention the current issues in Ferguson, KY, this film should have no problem striking a chord with audiences.

Stay tuned as more information on the project becomes available.