Killing Them Softly Trailer

Director Andrew Dominik did some great work on “The Assassination Of Jesse James By The Coward Robert Ford”. He coaxed a particularly good performance out of Brad Pitt, who played up his real-life celebrity status and slyly subverted it. That combination worked so well, many have been waiting for their reunion. And here it is. “Killing Me Softly” (formerly titled “Cogan’s Trade”) debuted at the Cannes Film Festival back in May, and was quite warmly received by critics. I’ve been itching to get a glimpse of the film, and this trailer does hint at what impressed them. It’s got a grimy, decidedly lived-in feel to the proceedings, not to mention a pretty solid cast. Also, it’s amusing to note how Ray Liotta seems to spend a lot of time getting roughed up. Hope this one makes it to cinemas here…

Here’s what the story’s about: “Adapted from George V. Higgins’ novel and set in New Orleans, “Killing Them Softly” follows professional enforcer, Jackie Cogan (Pitt), who investigates a heist that occurs during a high stakes, mob-protected, poker game. The film also features Scoot McNairy (“Monsters”), Ben Mendelsohn (“Animal Kingdom”), Ray Liotta, Richard Jenkins (“The Visitor”), with James Gandolfini, Vincent Curatola, Max Casella, Sam Shepard and Bella Heathcote among others.”

“Killing Them Softly” also stars Sam Rockwell and Linara Washington. It premieres 19th October. No word on a local release yet, pending censorship issues.