Netflix has an odd way of marketing films, almost antithetical to how typical film studios do things. Instead of hyping the release date of the film a year in advance, with trailers normally coming six months or more ahead of time, the streaming service normally waits until right before the film will drop to announce a release date and begin marketing. This means it’s easy for film fans to forget about some upcoming projects, like the new David Fincher movie, “Mank.”
However, just because Netflix isn’t talking about “Mank,” and the studio hasn’t released a trailer yet doesn’t mean the film isn’t arriving in 2020. In fact, according to a new interview with Eric Roth, a producer on “Mank,” the film is actually coming sooner than you might think.
Speaking on the Pardon My Take podcast (via The Film Stage), Roth revealed that “Mank” is being eyed for an October release. A specific date wasn’t mentioned, and obviously, this hasn’t been confirmed by Netflix, but Roth would definitely be one of the people that would know when the film is expected to arrive. In addition, the producer took the time to talk about his excitement for the project.
“It’s an incredible piece,” said Roth. “He did a black-and-white ’30s movie. It looks like a ’30s movie and feels like one.”
He added, jokingly, “Six people will go see it, but it’s pretty amazing.”
“Mank” is Fincher’s upcoming feature about “Citizen Kane” screenwriter Herman J. Mankiewicz, played by Gary Oldman. The cast also features Amanda Seyfried, Lily Collins, Tuppence Middleton, and Tom Burke as Orson Welles. Clearly, this is a great cast, and Fincher is one of the most acclaimed filmmakers working today. So, planning for a fall release for the film is a no-brainer, as that’s a great time for Netflix to begin the Oscar push for “Mank.”
Plus, that would give the film ample time to premiere at one of the upcoming fall festivals, which have been welcoming to Netflix films in years past, especially ones with well-known filmmakers and possible awards recognition. So, maybe we’ll see “Mank” in Venice or TIFF? We’ll just have to wait and see.