Controversial director Woody Allen's 50th film, 'Coup de Chance,' is on its way to U.S. theaters, set to hit screens on April 5th through MPI Media Group. Following a digital and video-on-demand release on April 12th, North American audiences will have the opportunity to witness Allen's latest cinematic endeavor.
'Coup de Chance' made its premiere at the prestigious Venice Film Festival in September. The movie generated a mixed response, with both protests and a noteworthy two-and-a-half minute standing ovation. Due to the #MeToo movement and the reemergence of Dylan Farrow's allegations of child molestation against Allen, theatrical distributors in the United States have generally been hesitant to work with the director. Many notable actors, such as Rebecca Hall, Timothée Chalamet, and Greta Gerwig, have expressed regret for their prior collaborations with him.
Translated as 'stroke of luck,' 'Coup de Chance' features a talented cast including Valerie Lemercier, Niels Schneider, Lou de Laage, Elsa Zylberstein, and Melvil Poupaud. The story revolves around a captivating couple residing in Paris, whose lives take an unexpected turn when a former flame reenters their orbit. Variety's chief film critic Owen Gleiberman acclaimed the film as Allen's best work since the critically acclaimed 'Blue Jasmine' in 2013. In his review, Gleiberman stated, 'If you're looking for an inviolable law of cinema, one that you can more or less take to the bank, the Venice Film Festival just confirmed an ironically delightful one. It is this: Murder agrees with Woody Allen.'
In an exclusive interview with Variety prior to the film's premiere, Allen shared that 'Coup de Chance' may mark the end of his directorial career. He expressed his reluctance to embark on another film-making journey if financing proves challenging. Allen stated, 'I have so many ideas for films that I would be tempted to do it if it was easy to finance, but beyond that, I don't know if I have the same verve to go out and spend a lot of time raising money.'
Although Allen's prolific career has been shadowed by allegations and controversy in recent years, the arrival of 'Coup de Chance' brings excitement and anticipation for his fans. Regardless of the debate surrounding the director, cinema enthusiasts can expect to see a thought-provoking murder mystery infused with Allen's signature style and storytelling prowess. As audiences flock to theaters, they will witness the culmination of Allen's five-decade-long journey in the world of filmmaking.
As the release approaches, 'Coup de Chance' will undoubtedly spark conversations while inviting viewers to take part in the ongoing dialogue surrounding the director's legacy.