Reload your pen with ink and bust out the foreclosure paperwork, because Apple has officially pulled THE BANKER from release.
The film starring Samuel L. Jackson and Anthony Mackie has been yanked from its limited theatrical release on December 6 as well as its January debut on Apple TV+. The upcoming drama directed by George Nolfi (THE ADJUSTMENT BUREAU) is based on the true story of Bernard Garrett (Anthony Mackie) and Joe Morris (Samuel L. Jackson), two revolutionary businessmen who devised a bold plan to take on the racially oppressive establishment of the 1960s and help other African Americans to pursue the American dream.
For the moment, the precise reason as to why the film has been pulled remains unclear, though a recent report from Deadline suggests that allegations have surfaced involving Garrett’s son, Bernard Garrett Jr. Again, the nature of the allegations have yet to be disclosed, though it's our understanding that a larger story is forthcoming. News of THE BANKER being pulled from release comes not long after the pic was scrapped from screening at AFI Fest, a day before the film was expected to have its premiere.
"We purchased The Banker earlier this year as we were moved by the film’s entertaining and educational story about social change and financial literacy. Last week some concerns surrounding the film were brought to our attention," reads Apple's official statement. "We, along with the filmmakers, need some time to look into these matters and determine the best next steps. In light of this, we are no longer premiering The Banker at AFI Fest."
An AFI Fest spokesperson responded, "We support Apple’s decision to postpone the premiere of The Banker. Fortunately our partners at Netflix have generously allowed us to screen their critically acclaimed Marriage Story to close out AFI Fest at the TCL Chinese Theatre."
While the film does not revolve around Bernard Garrett Jr., he was previously listed as a co-producer on the project, but has since had his name ousted from the credits. As the situation stands, THE BANKER is no longer being presented to audiences at this time. Whether Apple chooses to release the film at a later date also has yet to be determined.