When I first watched the INHERENT VICE trailer after I saw the film, I was disappointed with how many excellent gags and beats it unceremoniously ruined. Like in the worst trailers, moments that hit hard and heavy in the context of the film flop when isolated, and then the momentum's absent when the moments finally occur in the actual film.
However, I tend to adore P.T.A.'s self-cut trailers (watch his teasers for MAGNOLIA and THE MASTER), and this 37-second spot gets across all you need to know about the director's latest. It's a perfect montage of moments, looks, and lines that conveys the oddball mood of the film without spoiling much of anything (except the presence of a certain scene-stealing cast member, which is on the poster anyway). It's still something of a hard sell, but Anderson knows how to highlight what's poppy and attractive about his work without misrepresenting the actual product. Wish more directors were allowed to cut trailers for their films like this *sigh*.
The trailer also alludes to two "secret" screenings in London at the Prince Charles Cinema this Wednesday the 19th. Our U.K. readers way want to visit here and buy your tickets promptly.
As for the rest of us, this tease should suffice until we get the film in theaters in less than a month. Don't wait 'till last minute to roll up your joints, folks.
INHERENT VICE lights you up on December 12th.
Above art by Alex Fellows
