When you’re the biggest streaming website in the world, you’re not going to sit back idly and let the likes of Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon steal all your thunder. So it shouldn’t be too much of a shock that YouTube is hitting the world of major motion pictures with its latest Original film, “Viper Club.” And unlike previous outings, the streaming site isn’t relying on its homegrown star power for this film.
As seen in the new trailer, “Viper Club” stars none other than Academy Award-winning actress Susan Sarandon as a mother working tirelessly to save her journalist son, who is being held for ransom in Syria. The film is clearly YouTube’s attempt at legitimizing its Originals output, while also diversifying what the website offers. Sure, go to YouTube for the cat videos and fails, but stay for the high-quality acting of Susan Sarandon!
It also appears that YouTube isn’t going to follow in the footsteps of Netflix and release “Viper Club” solely as a streaming title. The film, which is directed by Maryam Keshavarz, will get a small theatrical run before hitting the streamer’s Premium service later this fall.
Joining Sarandon in the cast of the film are Matt Bomer, Lola Kirke, Julian Morris, Shelia Vand, Adepero Oduye and Edie Falco. Obviously, YouTube is hoping that some decent traditional Hollywood star power can lead “Viper Club” to success.
“Viper Club” is set to hit theaters on October 26.
Here’s the synopsis:
ER nurse Helen Sterling (Susan Sarandon) struggles to free her grown son, a journalist captured by terrorists in the Middle East. After hitting walls with the FBI and State agencies, she discovers a clandestine community of journalists, advocates, and philanthropists who might be able to help.