Are there consequences for a one-night stand? Lionsgate’s “Fatale” offers its own take on the age-old question. In the film, star Michael Ealy plays a married man whose random one-time-thing sexual encounter turns out to be a nightmare. In a time where genre entries are often reboots and remakes, the project sounds familiar to audiences; it’s hard not to see the remnants of “Fatal Attraction” in the overarching story. For “Fatale,” the main character is faced with a female detective as his predator—seemingly punishing him for his dalliance. Whether that character development is enough for those seeking a higher level of danger ultimately relies on the viewer.
READ MORE: The Best Films Of 2020… So Far
Academy Award-winner Hilary Swank takes on the role of Detective Valerie Quinlan. The actress, more known for protagonists, seems at home in her new character, both devious and destructive. It’s not Swank’s only recent title to establish her as the baddie. She also took a surprising turn in “The Hunt” as a woman whose deepest obsessions lead to murder.” Along with Ealy, “Fatale” promises a steamy pairing that highlights sensuality wrapped in mystery and intrigue. Mike Colter, Kali Hawk, and Danny Pino also star.
READ MORE: 100 Most Anticipated Films Of 2020
The film’s creative team is led by director Deon Taylor and screenwriter David Loughery. For Taylor, this has been a busy time with three post-production projects and one currently in pre-production. While “Fatale” seems like a departure from his comedic efforts like Mike Epps’ “Meet The Blacks,” the versatile director seems to be channeling the tone of his 2018 contribution “Traffik” instead. Loughery carries his own unique filmography that bounces from the sci-fi world of “Dreamscape” to the thriller “Lakeview Terrace.” He gets a sole writing credit for the current film, something he didn’t have on major projects, including “Passenger 57” and similar titles.
“Fatale” premieres on December 18 in theaters (uhh, wherever those things are open after the highest coronavirus deaths in one day reported this week). Watch the film’s trailer below.
