Sometimes there’s a film that falls between the cracks and doesn’t make much of an impact when it debuts at a film festival, even if the project is written by a big-time filmmaker, directed by a huge name, and has an impressive cast. Case in point — “The Pretenders.”
The plot for ‘Pretenders’ is pretty easy to sum up. A film student meets a girl that makes a huge impact on his life. They have a fling and part ways. Years later, she shows up again and the young filmmaker’s life is once again thrown into chaos. Sure, that premise is interesting enough, but once you realize all the talent behind-the-scenes, you’re going to wonder why you didn’t know this film existed before 5 minutes ago.
James Franco has literally directed over 20 feature films since 2005. Most of those, except for maybe “The Disaster Artist,” has yet to really register for many film fans. But yet, he keeps making films at an incredible pace. And “The Pretenders” just so happens to be his latest directorial effort (he also has a small role in the film). Not only is Franco the director, but the film also is scripted by Josh Boone, the man behind “The Fault in Our Stars” and the seemingly-shelved “New Mutants.”
And that’s just the people who wrote and directed the damn thing. “The Pretenders” stars Juno Temple, Brian Cox, Dennis Quaid, Shameik Moore, and Jane Levy, who are all accomplished actors that have starred in massive films. Yet, did you know about this film before clicking the link? Probably not. If so, then consider yourself the film fan extraordinaire for the day and you can pick up your no-prize at the door.
“The Pretenders” debuts on September 27.
Here’s the synopsis:
French New Wave obsessed film student Terry and his best friend, the smooth-talking Phil, are both seduced by mysterious actress Catherine. The longer they know each other, the more they realize they don’t truly know the real Catherine. After years of sex, betrayal, and collateral damage, the three careen into a lifestyle that leaves one of them fighting for their life.
