While James Franco may have been hitting the headlines for chatting up a British teen on Instagram and the movie dramatisation of his own short stories in Palo Alto, flying under the radar is the star’s directional debut.
The Hollywood A-lister’s film Child of God, which he stars and directs in, is getting an exclusive premiere at Manchester’s Dancehouse theatre tomorrow, thanks to Grimm Up North.
Grimm’s presentation of Franco’s first directing work will be the only airing of the film anywhere in the UK.
The film has been adapted from Cormac McCarthy’s seminal novel – which sparked controversy in the US after it caused distress when studied in schools.
Grimm Entertainment, who run Manchester film festival Grimm Up North, have managed to secure a copy of the new film and aim to give it the platform they feel it deserves.
Grimm’s assistant co-ordinator Ben Ross told MM: “The audience can expect an unrelenting macabre exploration of the true darkness of humanity. This is not for the squeamish, but it is for those willing to experience something distinctly unique.
“We’ll also be having an introduction to the film and the original text upon which is it is adapted from by MMU principal lecturer and Director of Manchester’s Centre for Gothic Studies, Linnie Blake.
“The UK premiere is being hosted by Grimm as we pride ourselves on being an entity that champions and promotes all manner of dark cinema.
“This title is going straight to DVD and we wanted to afford the public an opportunity to see it on the big screen.”
Audiences can expect a twisted cinematic experience which stays true to the novel’s sombre nature.
“The film is as disturbing as it could possibly be,” added Ben.
“The camera never shies away from depicting the heinous acts that (the protagonist) Lester continually indulges in, the audience is being invited to bear witness to them in their full and terrifying glory.”
Despite the film being fronted by a big name like Franco; Grimm Entertainment have set up a screening as they believe that Manchester cinema enthusiasts will appreciate the feature-length production.
“James Franco is indeed a big name – and this is one of his earliest forays in to directing,” he said.
“We at Grimm Up North believe the title deserves to have a UK screening.
“We approached the distributor about co-ordinating this premiere. We want to champion this film as much as possible as we exist to bring the fans the best in new and classic horror and cult cinema.”
Manchester’s film scene is thriving and continues to play a major role in supplying film-lovers with quality cinematic experiences.
“Manchester has a rich and vibrant filmmaking and film-watching community. There are meet-up groups, societies, and communities dedicated,” said Ben.
“Of course, any exclusive event with regards to cinema happening in Manchester is good for the film community.”
Child of God is available to buy on DVD on August 31.
Image courtesy of film festivals and indie films via Youtube, with thanks
