It’s not a sneak, but it might be just as good. CBS Films and AFI announced this afternoon that Peter Berg‘s “Patriots Day” will close AFI FEST 2017 next month. The drama based on the Boston Marathon bombing in 2013 will have its world premiere on Nov. 17 at the TCI Chinese Theater.
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In a release, AFI FEST director Jacqueline Lyanga remarked, “‘Patriots Day’ is a moving tribute to the strength of the human spirit, the heroes of Boston and our nation’s capacity to unify in the wake of the unimaginable. Peter Berg brings together a riveting ensemble cast whose emotional performances beautifully humanize and personalize the people whose lives have been forever changed. We are honored to screen this film as the Special Closing Night Gala Presentation of AFI FEST.”
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The film is described by the studio as: “An account of the Boston Marathon bombing, “Patriots Day” is the powerful story of a community’s courage in the face of terror. In the aftermath of an unspeakable attack, Police Sergeant Tommy Saunders (Mark Wahlberg) joins courageous survivors, first responders and investigators in a race against the clock to hunt down the bombers before they strike again. Weaving together the stories of Special Agent Richard DesLauriers (Kevin Bacon), Police Commissioner Ed Davis (John Goodman), Sergeant Jeffrey Pugliese (J.K. Simmons) and nurse Carol Saunders (Michelle Monaghan), this visceral and unflinching chronicle captures the suspense of one of the most sophisticated manhunts in law enforcement history and celebrates the strength of the people of Boston.”
It’s worth noting that last year Adam McKay‘s Best Picture nominated “The Big Short” closed the festival as did CBS Films’ “Inside Llewyn Davis” a few years back.
Berg and Wahlberg previously collaborated on “Lone Survivor” and “Deepwater Horizon” which opened in September to solid reviews but disappointing box office.
“Patriots Day” opens in limited release on Dec. 21 in New York, Los Angeles and Boston. It expands nationwide on Jan. 13.