I consider myself enough of a fan of helmer David Mackenzie to put Spread at the top tier of films I wanted to cover at Sundance back in January. I can’t say I was totally seduced on Mackenzie’s intro into comedy, but I was impressed that the film had a little bit of balls…..tits, ass and plenty of nudity. Actually the intro is pretty sharp, Ashton Kutcher narrates from the backdrop of a clubbing scene (an impressive three level long take) that inserts the viewer into the character’s lifestyle. My after-thought was, what kind of a life will this have in theaters, if any at all? The pic was surprisingly picked up despite the obvious issues at hand.
Clearly by the looks of their trailer (bottom version) Anchor Bay aren’t going the full monthy and representing the film as it is. Unlike the French who play up the flesh and gigolo angle, the U.S trailer makes this look like a rom com and explores the past the middle point portions, rather than naked buttocks bits. The indie distributor looks at the marketing of this film as a numbers game: try to get as many Ashton Kutcher fans grouped in with accidental tourists (those looking for a romantic comedy). I wonder what would happen if they choose to go the alternative, more authentic route? Take a look for yourself. Be the judge and let me know which you prefer.
Scripted by Jason Dean Hall and Paul Kolsby, set in modern day Los Angeles, Spread is a hard biting story about a high-end lethario, Nikki (Ashton Kutcher), who has slept his way into a life of privilege. He shares his secrets with us as he hosts parties and beds scores of women, all while living it up at the Hollywood Hills home of a middle-aged female attorney, Samantha (Anne Heche). Everything is going swimmingly until Nikki meets a gorgeous waitress named Heather (Margarita Levieva), who, unbeknownst to him, is playing the same game that he is.
and… the U.S trailer.
Anchor Bay releases Spread on August 14th.
