David Mamet is, for lack of a better term, prolific. Playwright, producer, writer, director, author - the guy is a fascinating talent and when he’s attached to a project, it’s likely to get attention but I’m not quite sure what to make of his new feature, the action drama Redbelt.
Starring the always great Chiwetel Ejiofor, Emily Mortimer, Alice Braga (who some may remember from her pathetic appearance in I Am Legend (our review)) and the oddball of the bunch Tim Allen in what appears to be a completely dramatic role, the film tells the story of Mike Terry (Ejiofor), a mixed-martial arts expert who, in an effort to save his business, becomes involved in the film industry.
I’m not sure what to make of this. The trailer doesn’t look particularly inspiring and Tim Allen hasn’t really done much for me outside of Galaxy Quest but it’s doubtful this will be a dud - Mamet is a force to be reckoned with. Makes me wonder: what does he have up his sleeve?
Redbelt is scheduled to open on August 21st.
Redbelt Trailer: 
And Chiwetel Ejiofor is always a great choice. I’m really, really looking forward to this despite Tim Allen…(Note that Mamet used Steve Martin in a completely non-comedic role in The Spanish Prisoner, although I tend to think that Martin is waaaaaay more enjoyable to watch in general compared to Tim Allen. But then there is a film like GALAXY QUEST to reckon with)
Comment by Kurt Halfyard — February 15, 2008
Via Sony Picture Classics: “The film will open in limited release on May 2, 2008 in New York and Los Angeles before expanding nationwide on May 9. PLEASE NOTE: this date is different from the previously announced April 25, 2008 date.”
Comment by Kurt Halfyard — February 22, 2008
I think this looks pretty good and as Kurt said, you really can’t go wrong with Chiwetel Ejiofor in your film.
Comment by Andrew James — April 7, 2008