Christian Bale gets back into action this fall with OUT OF THE FURNACE and today we have a look at the first poster for the film, as well as some new images and info from both Bale and director Scott Cooper (CRAZY HEART). What's being set up as a gritty crime drama, OUT OF THE FURNACE seems like it will be tackling some more intimate and deeper things, according to Bale, who says of his character's arc:
“It seemed uplifting and tragic at the same time. In the midst of this crumbling town of Braddock, Pennsylvania, which people were deserting, [Russell] was somebody who was staying, and also staying with principles and loyalty that defined his life, regardless of the consequences. And therefore a very memorable individual.”
According to director Scott Cooper, OUT OF THE FURNACE is a story about the heartland of America, as much as it is a story about revenge and that the struggle of Bale's character is representative of American life during the recession:
“Through his faith and the support of his family and community and through his resolve, he emerges a stronger man. Much like America has after coming through these last five or six difficult years.”
Cooper also says that he is proud to bring the spotlight to part of America that isn't represented often in Hollywood films, saying:
“Many people refer to it pejoratively as ‘flyover states.’ But I have a real fondness for those people who live in the heartland of America, and I like to see their stories onscreen.”
Here’s the synopsis:
OUT OF THE FURNACE tells a story about fate, circumstance and justice. Russell (Bale) and his younger brother Rodney (Affleck) live in the economically depressed Rust Belt, and have always dreamed of escaping and finding better lives. But when a cruel twist of fate lands Russell in prison, his brother is lured into one of the most violent and ruthless crime rings in the Northeast – a mistake that will almost cost him everything. Once released, Russell must choose between his own freedom, or risk it all to seek justice for his brother.
OUT OF THE FURNACE, starring Christian Bale, Woody Harrelson, Casey Affleck, Zoe Saldana, Willem Dafoe, Forest Whitaker, and Sam Shepard hits theaters on October 4, 2013.