Film Preview: Hail, Caesar! (2016)

Page Revisions:

(October 11, 2015) Original
(January 17, 2016) New Trailer (#2) / New Poster (#1)
(January 31, 2016) New Posters (#2-#8)

Release Date:

February 5, 2016

Synopsis:

From IMDb: “A Hollywood fixer in the 1950s works to keep the studio’s stars in line.”

Poster Rating: C+ / B- (7)

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Review: (#1) A passable, if forgettable design that somewhat reminds the viewer of Old Hollywood, but not in a very meaningful way. There is also a light connection in terms of coloring to Fargo, but that may be incidental.

(#2-#8) Although they lack a visually distinct backdrop, these character posters play into the style of the first design, which makes for an interesting visual connection. The film’s appreciation of character and of period are evident and that’s the best way to draw in an audience, especially with actors like these.

Trailer Rating: B+ / B

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Review: (#1) I’m not the biggest fan of the Coens, but I’ve found a few of their films to be quite enjoyable. This one looks like it might be one of them. An all-star cast sending up Hollywood should be a fun time for any cinephile.

(#2) As much as this scene plays out quite humorously, it drags on too long and by the time we get to it in the film itself, we’re bound to grow bored with it quickly. The film still looks like a hoot, but its veneer of humor is wearing thin.

Oscar Prospects:

The Coen Brothers are quite popular with the Academy, but their comedy work isn’t often recognized. That could change with this film, but I suspect the lengthy time between release and contention won’t keep it visible long enough to make a difference.