Film Preview: The Big Short (2015)

Page Revisions:

(September 27, 2015) Original
(December 6, 2015) New Trailer (#2) / New Posters (#1-#3) / Updated Release Date (changed from 12/23/15)

Release Date:

December 11, 2015

Synopsis:

From IMDb: “Four outsiders in the world of high-finance who predicted the credit and housing bubble collapse of the mid-2000’s decide to take on the big banks for their lack of foresight and greed.”

Poster Rating: B / C- / B+

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Review: (#1) Any interesting design that takes a tired style and gives it a new, pointy edge. It isn’t the greatest design, but is refreshing at least. (#2) This was a teaser trailer for the film, with little more than a simple, uncomplicated image with a lot of text. Neither of these elements is well used or particularly compelling even when combined. (#3) Like the first design, this one does something fresh with a familiar design and, unlike the excessive white space in the first design, seems to nail the idea that all space on a design is valuable.

Trailer Rating: B- / B+

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Review: (#1) The trailer unfurls the plot with a great deal of mediocre humor and purported significance, but might be a touch too confusing for a regular audience. Only the film’s stars might attract viewers based on this.

(#2) The first trailer made for a dull watch, but this new trailer is a bit fresher and more entertaining. It makes a compelling case for audiences to find out more about what went down when the housing market crashed and see how one group of folks went about sticking it to the banks who caused it to happen. The trailer has a political angle, but one which most working class folk can appreciate, which makes it look like the kind of film that could draw a wide swath of the public to the theater.

Oscar Prospects:

The studio obviously felt strongly enough about the film to push it for a 2015 release, which means they think they have a serious contender. It’s quite possible, though the trailer doesn’t quite give that impression. Still, with a cast like this, there is sure to be contention and even if it doesn’t make the Best Picture category, it’s a strong competitor for acting nominations.