A24 has several highly anticipated new films on their fall slate, including Darren Aronofsky’s “The Whale” and Joanna Hogg’s “The Eternal Daughter.” The third world premiere you should be paying attention to is Elegance Bratton‘s narrative directorial debut, “The Inspection.” And not just because the autobiographical elements from Bratton’s life it features on screen.
Set to debut at the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival and close the 2022 New York Film Festival, “The Inspection” centers on Ellis (Tony and Emmy Award nominee Jeremy Pope), a gay, black man who decides to join the Marines might be the only hope he has in life. His upbringing has been tainted by a difficult relationship with his mother (a rare prestige turn for Gabrielle Union), who has little confidence in him. The film also stars Emmy nominee Bokeem Woodbine (“Fargo,” “Halo”) and Raúl Castillo (“Cha Cha Smooth,” “Looking”), among others.
The mini-major released a trailer today that teases a film that might be somewhat broader than the studio’s typical fare. It also looks like the film will be a major cinematic showcase for not just Pope but the always-underrated Union. Interestingly enough, the arty experimental indie band Animal Collective has written the score. You can watch the preview embedded in this post.
A24 continues to be a home for diverse filmmakers and stories. “The Inspection” hopes to find itself beside previous standouts such as Barry Jenkins‘ Best Picture-winning “Moonlight,” “The Last Black Man in San Francisco,” “The Farewell,” “Mirai,” “Zola” and, most recently, “Everything Everywhere All At Once.”
“The Inspection” is set for release later this year.