Pulling double-duty as star and director, British filmmaker Noel Clarke – who rose to fame through Kidulthood and Adulthood – is the driving force behind the upcoming sci-fi action film, The Anomaly, and we now have a new trailer to study for clues. Though Universal Pictures are handling the July 4 UK theatrical release, there is currently no sign of a foray into US cinemas. This may be scheduled if the movie performs well with British audiences, however.
Clarke directs for the third time, here from a script by relative newcomer Simon Lewis. Co-starring Luke Hemsworth (older brother of Chris and Liam), Ian Somerhalder (The Vampire Diaries), Brian Cox (RED 2), and Alexis Knapp (Pitch Perfect), the tale plays out in both London and New York City. Following a former soldier (Clarke) who is continually ‘re-booted’ after 9 minutes and 47 seconds, he must uncover the truth about what is happening to him and why, before everybody else is subjected to the same horrors.
What’s that you say? The Bourne Identity meets Edge Of Tomorrow? Well, yes – it certainly seems that way. But the reason this is a noteworthy release is the presence of Noel Clarke behind the camera. There is a very real sense that this is an opportunity to watch a talented director take his work to the next level. The trailer showcases some pretty impressive camera work, and some interesting special effects. There are some eye-catching action set-pieces and sterling attempts at visually arresting fight scenes – which are all incredibly ambitious undertakings, for a director relatively early in his career.
Make no mistake, The Anomaly is Noel Clarke’s move toward the next chapter in what is proving to be a career worth watching. Just as this story features both the US and the UK, it will surely not be long before the bigger Hollywood studios come calling for this British talent. In the meantime, you can check out the new trailer for the film below.
