Movies that slip under the radar are nothing new. Just last year the press thought so little of “Still Alice” that only HitFix and the entertainment trades were on hand to review its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival. We all know how silly that must have seemed when Julianne Moore was taking home Oscar gold five months later.
In 2009 “Precious” (then known as “Push: A Novel by Sapphire”) debuted at the Sundance Film Festival to an rapturous audience filled with few members of the media because some “other” film was the hot ticket at the same time (a movie that was so hot no one remembers what it was now). “Precious” starred Mariah Carey and Mo'Nique. How good could it be? Well, quite amazing it turns out.
While there will no doubt be a surprise or two amongst the deluge of new films screening at Venice, Telluride and Toronto, the new teaser for A24's “Room” will make sure this indie drama isn't a complete unknown when it makes its expected debut at that annual Colorado film festival held over Labor Day weekend.*
*We're only guessing “Room” will screen at Telluride. However, since it's being slotted as a “Canadian Premiere” at TIFF that indicates a North American debut somewhere else beforehand. Do the math.
“Room” is the latest feature from Lenny Abrahamson who helmed the irreverent, but polarizing “Frank” last year and 2012's critically acclaimed thriller “What Richard Did.” Adapted by Emma Donoghue from her own novel, the drama is told through the eyes of 7-year-old Jack (Jacob Tremblay), a young boy who lives in a single room dwelling with his mother (Ma played by Brie Larson). When they escape their prison Jack's understanding of the world is simply turned upside down.
The film's teaser trailer, which you can view embedded below, promises an emotional journey that is instantly more accessible than Abrahamson's last effort. More importantly, Larson, who is the emotional core of this summer's Amy Schumer comedy “Trainwreck,” may finally have the role that puts her in that top tier of prestige film actresses. The good news is that no matter what the critics think moviegoers won't have to wait long to catch the film themselves. “Room” opens in limited release on Oct. 16.
What do you think of the first preview for the “Room”? Share your thoughts in the comments section.