The Inspection, a drama about a Black homosexual man who enlists in the military to find belonging and recognition, has a brand new trailer, published today by fan-favourite production firm A24. Early screenings have been quite positive, and the film has been well received at festivals, so preparations are underway for a late-Fall release. The new trailer for The Inspection emphasises the strained connection between Ellis French (Jeremy Pope) and his mother Inez French, while the earlier trailer for the film concentrated on the tale overall (Gabrielle Union).
Ellis has to cope with homophobia from a variety of sources, but it is especially painful when it comes from those closest to him. The trailer also emphasises the negative effects Ellis’ decision to join the Marines has on his mental health and the adaptations he must make to survive in the military environment. This took place during a period of heightened paranoia in the United States when the government enacted divisive foreign policies in an effort to curb terrorism. Elegance Bratton, who helms his first feature film with The Inspection, has previously directed several short films and documentaries, including 2019’s critically acclaimed Pier Kids, which follows a group of Black, queer, and transgender youth who make their home in New York City’s Christopher Street Pier.
The events of The Inspection were based on the real-life experiences of Bratton. During an interview with Deadline at the Toronto International Film Festival, Bratton said, “This movie is solely for them [LGBTQIA+] folks who feel ignored.” New York Picture Festival (NYFF) creative director Dennis Linn praised the film, calling it “a debut film for the ages” and praising its “unique strength and confidence.” The title has received Oscar hype, and the last quarter release window is the most advantageous for keeping films in the minds of voters.
This coming Sunday will mark the conclusion of the 2022 New York Film Festival, and the film The Inspection was chosen to serve as the festival’s final selection. The Inspection also stars Bokeem Woodbine (Marvel’s Cloak and Dagger), Andrew Kai (The Space Between), Eman Esfandi (King Richard), Andrew Dominguez (Only Murders in the Building), McCaul Lombardi (Anywhere With You), Ral Castillo (Hustle), McCaul Lombardi (Anywhere With You), Aaron Dominguez (Only Murders in the Building), and Nicholas Logan (I Care (Halo).
On November 18, cinemas throughout the world will show the first screenings of The Inspection.
Synopsis
Inspired by his own life, filmmaker Elegance Bratton creates a powerfully moving film about a young, gay Black man who, after being rejected by his mother and seeing few prospects for his future, decides to join the Marines and do whatever it takes to succeed in a system that would otherwise cast him aside. Despite facing prejudice and the monotony of basic training, he finds a surprising feeling of community that provides him with the strength and support he needs to forge a new identity and outlook on life.