Featured Image Credit: Fandango
Topics: Cinema, Idris Elba, TV and Film, Beast, Universal Pictures
Sarah Cayless
Topics: Cinema, Idris Elba, TV and Film, Beast, Universal Pictures
Beast, an exciting new film by Universal Pictures starring Idris Elba, looks set to be both moving and terrifying. The thriller takes place in the beautiful South African landscapes and promises intimate portrayals of fatherly love alongside, as the title would imply, some scary beasts. Namely, angry lions.
According to the official trailer, ‘sometimes the rustle in the bushes actually is a monster’, so be prepared for jump-scares.
The official trailer starts and ends with a lion charging into the side of a car as the passengers inside scream and cower. However, what has the potential to be a somewhat crass portrayal of the animal kingdom appears to be salvaged by its contemplation of the perils of poaching. Instead of David Attenborough’s usual lessons on the risks of extinction, this film explores the possibility of hunted animals seeking revenge against humans.
The trailer is interwoven with details about the characters’ lives. In particular, we are told that the father has been recently widowed, something which has left him wanting to reconnect with his two daughters. The family share in their bereavement as they visit the locations in which the mother had previously pursued her nature photography.
Advert
It is quite the unwelcome surprise, therefore, when their trip is violently disrupted by bloodthirsty lions.
The star of this film is former Sexiest Man Alive and all-round heartthrob, Idris Elba. He plays the father, Dr. Nate Daniels. His tour guide, Martin Battles, is played by the South African actor Sharlto Copley, who you may recognise from Russian Doll or Maleficent.
Other cast members include:
Beast is set to hit UK cinemas on the 26th of August. This is just a few days later than the US release date, which is scheduled for the 19th of August.