The art scene has become a captivating backdrop for Hollywood, with a surge of films exploring its intricate dynamics. Following the recent releases like Cathy Yan's The Gallerist and Kelly Reichardt's upcoming The Mastermind, Steven Soderbergh adds to this trend with his new film, The Christophers.
Scheduled to hit theaters on April 10 in the US and May 15 in the UK after its debut at the Toronto Film Festival last September, The Christophers features Ian McKellen in the role of a once-renowned artist who finds himself entangled with an art forger portrayed by Michaela Coel.
Coel, celebrated for her work in the British sitcom Chewing Gum and the acclaimed series I May Destroy You, brings depth to her character, Lori, a former forger turned art restorer. This film promises to showcase her range and talent.
Film Synopsis
Written by Ed Solomon, known for Soderbergh's No Sudden Move, The Christophers tells the story of Julian Sklar (Ian McKellen), a once-prominent figure in the London pop art scene of the 1960s and 70s. After years of financial struggles and a long hiatus from painting, Julian's estranged children, played by James Corden and Jessica Gunning, devise a plan to secure their inheritance. They enlist Lori, the art restorer, to masquerade as an assistant, allowing her to access eight unfinished artworks hidden in Julian's storage. Lori's scheme involves completing these pieces and leaving them to be "discovered" posthumously.
As the narrative unfolds, audiences can expect a blend of intrigue, creativity, and the complexities of familial relationships set against the vibrant backdrop of the art world.
The film's trailer has generated excitement, hinting at a captivating exploration of art, identity, and the lengths one might go to reclaim lost glory.
