War Machine has released its first teaser trailer, a 30-second spot that focuses on Brad Pitt‘s character, but shows glimpses of stars such as Tilda Swinton and Will Poulter. The comedy film is based on the book The Operators: The Wild & Terrifying Inside Story Of America’s War In Afghanistan, which was written by the late journalist Michael Hastings. When Netflix first purchased the rights in 2015, it was their biggest investment too date on a feature film (around $30 million).
The story tells of the rise and fall of army general Glenn McMahon (played by Pitt), who enters the war in Afghanistan under the impression he is the best man for the job, which in many ways he is, but was reportedly known for saying and thinking what other military leaders were afraid to, which would lead to his demise. When a journalist interviews him, and reveals his true views on American political leaders, McMahon is faced with the reality of the intersection of military, government, and the media. The main character is based on real-life veteran General Stanley McChrystal.
The war satire will also star Ben Kingsley, Anthony Michael Hall, Topher Grace, Lakeith Stanfield, Emory Cohen, John Magaro, RJ Cyler, Alan Ruck, Scoot McNairy and Meg Tilly.
War Machine was filmed in London, England and in Berlin, Germany in 2015, but has been in post-production for the last year.
The film is expected to premiere at Cannes Film Festival in May, but has yet to be confirmed.
Check out the trailer below.