In switching from low-key character dramas (read: Mud and Take Shelter) to the realm of science fiction, director Jeff Nichols has cited many inspirations including E.T. and Close Encounters of the Third Kind. And those touchstones shine bright in today’s new trio of clips for Nichols’ latest creative effort, Midnight Special.
Set to make its bow during SXSW 2016 next week, there’s a palpable buzz surrounding the filmmaker’s genre departure, and it’s one that orbits around the father-son bond between Michael Shannon (Roy) and newcomer Jaeden Lieberher.
Heavy on style and light on spoilers, the snippets come by way of The Playlist, not only showcasing the striking neon-blue visuals, but also Midnight Special‘s star-studded ensemble. Hunting down Lieberher’s peculiar (and powerful) anomaly is Adam Driver’s deranged governmental agent, who believes the child’s innate power ought to be kept under lock and key. Also snapping on the heels of Roy’s gifted son is a mysterious cult, leading to a set-up that Nichols describes as a sci-fi chase movie.
Shortly after its worldwide premiere at next week’s SXSW 2016, Midnight Special will land in theaters on March 18. Joel Edgerton, Kirsten Dunst and Sam Shepard also star.
To get a sense of the film’s eerie tone, check out those new clips in question below.
Roy (Michael Shannon) is a father desperate to protect his uniquely gifted, eight-year-old son in this genre-defying thriller which proves once again that director Jeff Nichols is one of the most compelling storytellers of our time. As father and son go on the run, an intense chase ensues as they are hunted down by a mysterious cult and a clandestine government agency – the outcome of which could bring about a world-changing event.
Published: Mar 7, 2016 02:27 pm