Gus Van Sant has long line of notable works to his name. One of the most popular fan favorites is Good Will Hunting, but he also struck gold a few years ago with the political biopic, Milk. But his most recent film, The Sea of Trees, has not had such a good run. It was passed from studio to studio, finally landing at A24 after a weak premiere during the 2015 Cannes Film Festival.
The Sea of Trees, starring Matthew McConaughey as a depressed widower, takes place primarily in one of Japan’s most notorious areas that’s known as the “Suicide Forest.” After the tragic death of his wife, McConaughey travels to the forest to end his life. Before he does, he runs into a stranger (Ken Watanabe) who is lost. The two team together to find a way out, all the while sharing stories of love, loss, and wisdom. The new footage features a lot more of McConaughey’s backstory, an aspect the first trailer didn’t have.
So, despite the poor reception, there’s always hope for film like this. There’s a lot of talent involved, as well as having a seemingly heartfelt story. While it may not be getting an awards-friendly release date, at least we are getting it sooner rather than later. In the meantime, see the new trailer below.
The Sea of Trees opens on August 26, 2016.
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