Amidst controversy and legal concerns surrounding actor Kevin Spacey, the British indie thriller ‘Control’ is aiming for a theatrical release in the U.S. and U.K. by the end of the year. The film, in which Spacey lends his voice to a character, had already sold to several territories before his recent acquittal on all nine charges in his U.K. criminal trial.
Control, written and directed by Gene Fallaize, revolves around the British home secretary, played by Lauren Metcalfe, who is involved in a secret love affair with the prime minister, portrayed by Mark Hampton. In the midst of this complex web of relationships, Spacey’s character becomes aware of the secret affair and seeks revenge. He plots to remotely hijack her self-driving car, leading to a dramatic and dangerous rampage through the streets of London.
Despite initial concerns surrounding Spacey’s involvement, TriCoast Worldwide, the film’s sales agent, received positive interest from buyers in territories where “social media matters and culture wars are not top of the agenda.” Before the trial, the film was already sold to Germany, the Middle East, Latin America, CIS, and Korea.
TriCoast Worldwide’s co-CEO, Strath Hamilton, expressed confidence in the film and the performance delivered by Spacey, calling it “amazing.” While Hamilton is currently in discussions with potential domestic partners for the theatrical release, he also confirmed that TriCoast Entertainment, the distribution arm of TriCoast Worldwide, is prepared to handle the release if necessary.
Hamilton also highlighted the film as a way to support artists who have faced accusations and cancellations through social media. He views this as an obligation for the industry to make a stand and support these artists during challenging times.
Director Gene Fallaize also stood by the decision to cast Spacey, acknowledging that it wasn’t an easy choice but one that he believed in. Following the not-guilty verdict, Fallaize felt that the decision had “proven itself.”
Despite the acquittal, Kevin Spacey’s future in the entertainment industry remains uncertain, with doubts lingering about whether he can regain his previous career heights. ‘Control’ is just one of the few projects he has been cast in, alongside the comedy thriller ‘Peter Five Eight,’ slated for a U.S. release in August.
As ‘Control’ eyes its theatrical release, the film serves as a platform for Spacey to showcase his talent and for audiences to decide their stance on supporting artists amidst ongoing controversies. The film’s release will undoubtedly spark discussions about art, accountability, and the complexities of the entertainment industry.