Focus Features and Yahoo have debuted the first trailer for The American, the sophomore film from director Anton Corbijn (Control) starring George Clooney. The movie is an adaptation of Martin Booth’s novel A Very Private Gentleman. If only they’d kept that title over the generic new one.
Alone among assassins, Jack is a master craftsman. When a job in Sweden ends more harshly than expected for this American abroad, he vows to his contact Larry that his next assignment will be his last. Jack reports to the Italian countryside, where he holes up in a small town and relishes being away from death for a spell. The assignment, as specified by a Belgian woman, Mathilde, is in the offing as a weapon is constructed. Surprising himself, Jack seeks out the friendship of local priest Father Benedetto and pursues romance with local woman Clara. But by stepping out of the shadows, Jack may be tempting fate.
The American also stars Bruce Altman, Thekla Reuten, Paolo Bonacelli and Violante Placido. The script was written by Rowan Joffe.
I’m pretty excited about this one for two reasons. First, George Clooney has pretty great taste in projects and is among the only stars making mid-budget dramas for adults. Second, Anton Corbijn has won me over both with his extensive history of gorgeous music videos and his feature debut Control, an incredibly engaging biopic about Ian Curtis, singer for Joy Division.
Focus Features will release The American on September 1st.
