Another day, another fall movie releases a poster. Murtada here with the details.
Following the Beasts of No Nation trailer, the character posters for the African war drama have arrived. The trailer told us a lot about the film by introducing its two main characters - played by Idris Elba and newcomer Abraham Atta - and the hypnotic dynamic between them in one brief scene. The striking but simple posters continue the efficient storytelling and with just a few pictures and words tell us all we need to know. For now...
Taken together they are smart marketing - getting us interested without giving away much beyond the basic premise...
Beasts is Netflix’s first major film release. A same day theatrical release is planned for awards eligibility. It is also the online giant’s first test playing the film awards game outside of documentaries (The Square, Virunga). Netflix has already been successful with TV awards (House of Cards, Orange is the New Black to name just two).
It will be interesting to see if a Netflix original movie will be taken seriously. Not by just the Academy and other awards bodies, but also by critics. Being included in year-end ten best lists and awards is crucial. Of course the movie has to deliver first. It certainly has the pedigree. Based on a well received novel, Cary Fukunaga is hot off the acclaimed first season of True Detective and Idris Elba looks to have finally found the great role that eluded him with Mandela : Long Walk to Freedom (2013). He was excellent, the movie mediocre.
While the rumor is that Cannes passed, other film festivals are certainly taking notice. Beasts is playing in competition at Venice, will be at TIFF and possibly Telluride. That trifecta of fall festivals can often lead to success early the following year.
Will you venture out to a theater to see this or enjoy it in the comfort of your own home?