After releasing two films last year, Steven Soderbergh is set to debut The Christophers this spring. The dramedy, featuring Ian McKellen, Michaela Coel, James Corden, and Jessica Gunning, premiered at TIFF last fall and will be released by NEON on April 10. The first trailer has now been made available, drawing attention to Soderbergh’s latest work.
Plot Focuses on Aged Artist and His Estranged Family’s Schemes
The story centers on Julian Sklar (Ian McKellen), a once-prominent figure in London’s 1960s and 70s pop art scene who has not painted for many years and struggles financially. His two estranged children, played by James Corden and Jessica Gunning, are eager to secure an inheritance. They enlist Lori, an art restorer with a past as a forger, portrayed by Michaela Coel, to impersonate an assistant. Her mission is to find and finish eight unfinished paintings that Julian has hidden in storage and then return them to be “discovered” after his death.
Critical Reaction Highlights Strong Performances but Mixed Engagement
Christopher Schobert, writing after the TIFF premiere, noted the film’s primary dynamic involves Marianne’s portrayal by Michaela Coel and Julian’s character by Ian McKellen. He described Coel’s performance as confident yet tinged with weary irritation, while James Corden and Jessica Gunning’s roles as Julian’s anxious heirs add tension. However, Schobert found the film’s pacing and visual style less compelling, stating the extensive dialogue between McKellen and Coel can feel dull both dramatically and visually.
“The Christophers’ chief relationship is a drippy mix of all the above. It’s centered on a failed artist, Lori (played with confidence and seen-it-all annoyance by Michaela Coel), who is hired by the heirs (embodied with lustful nervousness by James Corden and Jessica Gunning) of the legendary painter Julian Sklar (Ian McKellen) to grab his famous (or infamous) series of unfinished paintings known as ‘The Christophers.’ What follows is a (seemingly) long dialogue between McKellen and Coel. And it is generally pretty compelling. Unfortunately, it’s also a bit dull, visually and dramatically.”
– Christopher Schobert, Film Critic
Anticipation Builds Ahead of April Release
As fans of Steven Soderbergh The Christophers await its official rollout, the film’s unique exploration of art, legacy, and deception is already sparking discussions. The combination of a talented cast and a tense, family-driven plot could offer a compelling drama despite some criticism about pacing. The April 10 NEON release will reveal how well this latest outing from the acclaimed director resonates with audiences.
