First trailer and poster for City of God director Fernando Meirelles’ new film 360 has arrived

At least, that’s how the film was being described two years ago. A film – inspired by the controversial play Reigen – that “examines sexual morals within and between social classes, using various pairs of characters who have sexual encounters in and outside of their social classes.” That sounded interesting to me. A film with the potential for some truly insightful observations about human nature and our socio-cultural divides. But what’s funny is that the film now is being sold (at least here in America) simply on the “importance” of its filmmakers. Is that just a marketing thing? Or has the film been somewhat watered down since its initial development? Who’s to say? All I know is that the film premiered last year at the Toronto Film Festival and was met with a pretty lukewarm response. I’ve avoided reviews, but that response of course doesn’t fill me with confidence. Still, it’s Meirelles – the guy who directed one of my absolute favorite films – so I’m willing to hope for the best.

360 opens in theaters on August 3rd but will become available on iTunes on June 29th. Is that an ill sign?

Synopsis: From two acclaimed artists: director Fernando Meirelles (City of God, The Constant Gardener) and writer Peter Morgan (The Queen, Frost/Nixon). With a stellar international cast that includes Rachel Weisz, Anthony Hopkins, Jude Law, Ben Foster, Jamel Debbouze and Moritz Bleibtreu, 360 is a moving and exciting dramatic thriller that dazzlingly weaves together the stories of an array of people from disparate social backgrounds through their intersecting relationships.