Academy Award nominees Samuel L. Jackson and Michael Keaton topline the upcoming Lionsgate assassin thriller, ‘The Protégé.’

Also starring Maggie Q, the Martin Campbell-directed film  – formerly titled ‘The Asset’ – tells the story of how “Moody” (a legendary assassin portrayed by Jackson) was killed and how his protégé “Anna” (portrayed by Q) is working to avenge his death.

Ahead of its August 20 premiere date, look inside for the captivating official trailer.

“Rescued as a child by the legendary assassin Moody (Samuel L. Jackson) and trained in the family business, Anna (Maggie Q) is the world’s most skilled contract killer. But when Moody – the man who was like a father to her and taught her everything she needs to know about trust and survival – is brutally killed, Anna vows revenge. As she becomes entangled with an enigmatic killer (Michael Keaton) whose attraction to her goes way beyond cat and mouse, their confrontation turns deadly and the loose ends of a life spent killing will weave themselves ever tighter.”

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