Apple has decided to pull one of their movies from being screened at the American Film Institute Festival. The movie in question is a historical drama called The Banker, based on the life story of Bernard Garrett and Joe Morris- two black business men who acquired mortgages for black people in the 1950’s and 60’s and were later accused of fraud. The movie was directed by George Nolfi and stars Anthony Mackie as Garrett and Samuel L. Jackson as Morris.
An Apple representative released a statement regarding their decision to pull the movie from the festival. Apple claims: “We purchased The Banker earlier this year as we were moved by the film’s entertaining and educational story about social change and financial literacy….Last week some concerns surrounding the film were brought to our attention. We, along with the filmmakers, need some time to look into these matters and determine the best next steps. In light of this, we are no longer premiering The Banker at AFI Fest.”
The Collider theorized that the reason for Apple’s decision to hold the movie was due to some issues regarding members of Garrett’s family that have recently come out. Deadline elaborated on the exact issue by noting some allegation regarding Bernard Garrett Jr. Apple is currently looking into the allegations but, until then, The Banker will continue to be put on hold.