Carnage Directed by: Roman Polanski Starring: Jodie Foster, John C. Reilly, Christoph Waltz, Kate Winslet Rating: R Release Date: December 16, 2011
TRAILER SCORE: 8/10
Thoughts by TSR: In August I wrote very positively about the international trailer for this film. With the release of this trailer, I have no reason to feel any less optimistic about Roman Polanski’s Carnage. If this second look does anything, it reaffirms my stance that this is one of my must-see films of December.
There are a number of funny moments in this trailer; I just hope there is plenty left to experience in the final film. That’s something that often plagues comedies, so hopefully that’s not the case this time. I particularly like the running gag with Christoph Waltz’s cell phone, my favorite instance being him on the phone laughing and snorting.
The standouts from the first international trailer were Kate Winslet and Christoph Waltz. While they still look strong, I’m most taken by John C. Reilly this time around. He was the one member of the cast who made the least impression last time, but here everything he did made me laugh. He has many great moments, including being thrilled to hear his son has a gang, proving how nice he and Jodie Foster’s character have treated their guests by mentioning the tulips (and by dressing as a liberal), and exclaiming “get a few drinks in her and BAM!” As the one cast member I was least sure about, I’m happy this trailer showcased him a bit more.
One of my favorite things is how the trailer escalates, much like I expect the film will. We start off slow, the couples attempting to remain cordial, as words like “sensible” and “patient” flash on screen. By the end a rush of words such as “mayhem,” “chaos,” and “insanity” pop up, perfectly mirroring the action.
Thus far, everything I’ve seen of Roman Polanski’s Carnage has only made me more excited for December to roll around. I can't wait to watch the havoc unfold.