Clint Eastwood’s latest – and possibly final film – was released in cinemas a few weeks ago to very little fanfare.
The 94-year-old’s critically acclaimed new courtroom drama was screened in less than 50 US movie theatres with little marketing support ahead of a streaming debut in December.
Reacting to the news, EmpireCity Box Office wrote prior: “I’ve given Warner Bros Pictures the benefit of the doubt, but what a dumpster fire.”
Since then, the studio has decided to give Juror No 2 a small awards campaign, which is getting even more attention after an Oscar-winning director called out Warner Bros.
Guillermo Del Toro praised Eastwood’s new film on Bluesky (the Twitter equivalent for those abandoning Elon Musk’s X) when he made the comments.
The Oscar-winning director wrote: “Went to the theatre to see Juror#2, Clint Eastwood’s latest film. We enjoyed it tremendously. Its – in aome ways- his Crimes and Misdemeanors. The film is precisely and assuredly filmed and its Nicolas Hoult’s to lead. The cast delivers beautifully and it has an ending that set the theatre abuzz- Its central dilemma reminded me of the quiet turmoil boiling under Dana Andrews in Preminger Noir of your choice (for me- Where The Sidewalk Ends) and it wrestles with it supported by a well-paced structure and well pondered twists. Why was this not released wide in the states? We saw at the Grove with a significant crowd that was vocal and responsive all the way. I truly hope WB can hold it longer. Eastwood is a master filmmaker and the steady, unfussy craft reveals him still in great form. Go see it on the big screen!”
Following Del Toro’s comments, insider Matt Belloni reports that “Academy influences” are now inspired to push Eastwood’s film for Oscars season. As a result, Warner Bros is reportedly setting up industry screenings for the movie, which will be announced next week.
Juror No 2 is out now in UK cinemas.
