The Trailer Park: A Scanner Darkly

I first saw this trailer online a few months ago, then I saw it again theatrically, although I can't recall what film it was with. It looks great, the style is vastly different than most films that grace the local cineplex. Oh yeah, almost forgot, the film is called A Scanner Darkly.

I wish that a release date would get attached to this rather than the nebulous "Coming Soon." I am afraid that this may never see the light of a cinema screen, or it may just get a small indie theater run, which runs the risk of passing me by. It looks terribly interesting, I am just thinking that the studio (Warner Independent Pictures) may not know how to market it and do the quickie release and shuffle it off to DVD.

The film is based on a story by Philip K. Dick, whose work has previously been mined for features such as Bladerunner, Total Recall, Minority Report, and the underrated Screamers. It was adapted and directed by Richard Linklater. It has a laundry list of stars such as Keanu Reeves, Winona Ryder, Woody Harrelson, and Robert Downey, Jr.

I admit to not knowing the tale, but it involves the near future where we are all recorded all the time. All of out movements become a permanent record. It is told in a cross between animation and live action film, using rotoscoping, where the actors are filmed and then are traced, a technique used in Ralph Bakshi's animated Lord of the Rings from the 1970's.

Judging by this trailer alone this is a highly anticipated release. It promises an intriguing story, told with a unique vision. It has star power, but with a twist, actors that are willing to have their visages distorted with an artists touch. Definitely interested in this.

You can see the trailer HERE.

Visit me at Draven99's Musings.

Article Author: Chris Beaumont

Christopher Beaumont spends much of his time writing about music and movies when he isn't indulging in them. He is always ready to talk about his favorite form of entertainment and offer up recommendations. Interests: SF, horror, and metal. …

Visit Chris Beaumont's author page — Chris Beaumont's Blog