We’d seen an international trailer earlier this year but now we’ve got the UK trailer for the unique-looking THE CONGRESS, and I really must emphasise it’s completely original flavour.
Directed by Ari Folman, the visionary director of WALTZ WITH BASHIR, the film follows ageing actress (Robin Wright, playing a version of herself) who chooses to take her final job: one that’ll preserve her digital likeness for a future Hollywood. The deal is set up by longtime agent (Harvey Keitel) and the head of Miramount Studios (Danny Huston). Her virtual alias will be controlled by the studio, and will star in any film they want with no restrictions. In return, she receives healthy compensation so she can care for her ailing son.
Twenty years later, under the creative vision of the studio’s head animator (Jon Hamm), Wright’s digital double rises to immortal stardom. With her contract expiring, she is invited to take part in “The Congress” convention as she makes her comeback straight into the world of future fantasy cinema.
This trailer is something unlike you’ve ever seen before and the title might undersell it – as you’ll assume it’s a political thriller. But, interestingly, there’s sure to be both a political and society question with what they’re trying to portray. Through a standard set-up, we dive in to fantasy worlds, animation and more. Have a watch below and let us know what you think:
THE CONGRESS is released on the 15th August in the UK and on the 29th August in the US. It stars Robin Wright, Harvey Keitel, Jon Hamm, Paul Giamatti, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Danny Huston, Sami Gayle, Michael Stahi-David, Michael Landes, and Sarah Shahi.
