It looks like Fox is treating the New York Film Festival as a lucky charm, and why not? Last year, the festival provided the world premiere for Ang Lee‘s “Life Of Pi,” which went on to earn 11 Oscar nominations, resulting in 4 wins including Best Director. And clearly, the studio has high hopes for “The Secret Life Of Walter Mitty.”
The New York Film Festival will present the world premiere of Ben Stiller‘s film, which is already gaining some huge buzz following its evocative trailer that unspooled earlier this week. Stiller, who directs and stars in the film, seems to have pushed the remake of the 1947 Danny Kaye musical fantasy into something of a life-affirming, crowd-pleasing, heart-warmer at first glance, and undoubtedly, it’s in the Oscar conversation now. “Ben Stiller has expanded on James Thurber’s beloved short story and crafted a beautifully lyrical comic epic, grounded in present day realities and concerns,” NYFF’s Director of Programming and Selection Committee Chair Kent Jones said. “He is wonderful in the lead, Kristen Wiig is nothing short of magical as the woman of his dreams, and it’s great to see Shirley MacLaine in perfect form. ‘The Secret Life of Walter Mitty’ is one terrific ride, and I’m thrilled that we’re able to present it as our Centerpiece screening.”
Adjust your Oscar predictions folks. The New York Film Festival runs from September 27th to October 13th, and ‘Mitty’ will screen on October 5th.