Maybe it was only a matter of time now that cancel culture seems to be turning out to be what everyone said it would be (aka, nothing more than a temporary cultural scolding, at most)? In a bid to return to mainstream industry acceptance, comedian Louis C.K. has a new movie on the way and wants the film to get as wide a release as possible. The new movie, which he recently revealed on his website (via THR), “Fourth Of July,” premieres at New York City’s Beacon Theater on June 30. However, it’s unclear if cinema chains will carry the film after two more screenings in Boston and Chicago on July 1 and 2.
C.K. co-wrote “Fourth Of July” with comedian Joe List (“Super Bummer Party”), who stars in the film as an NYC-based jazz pianist and recovering alcoholic who confronts his abrasive family during their annual Independence Day reunion in Maine. Sarah Tollemache, Lynne Koplitz, Nick Di Paoli, Robert Kelly, and Tony V also star. C.K. also has a small role in the film as List’s therapist. He also financed the film himself.
READ MORE: “These Stories Are True”: Louis C.K. Addresses Sexual Misconduct Allegations
“Fourth Of July” looks like an attempt by C.K. to reenter the industry mainstream after the 2017 sexual misconduct accusations he admitted to derailed his career entirely. Several media companies severed ties with C.K. after he admitted to several incidents of him undressing in front of women and masturbating.
In the five years since then, C.K. has gradually returned to live comedy and released specials independently on his website. But the stigma from the accusations still follows Louis C.K. In April, his Grammy victory for best comedy album for “Sincerely Louis C.K.” received a lot of backlash on social media.
“For me, it was fun as all fuck to direct and make a film again,” C.K. wrote in an open letter about the upcoming film. “Outside of my two scenes as Jeff’s therapist, which we shot first and got out of the way, for me, it was a real pleasure to direct without acting for the first time in many years. I felt able to look after the cast and focus on the look of the movie. Whether or not I did any of that properly, is up to pretty much everyone but me. I am very pleased with the results and hope that folks enjoy ‘Fourth Of July.’”
Outside of the three previously mentioned screenings, it’s unclear what kind of release “Fourth Of July” will get beyond that. “We are still compiling and constantly adding to the list of theaters which I will post on the web page for the movie which is on my website,” C.K. continued in his open letter. “Also, if you would like Fourth of July to play at a theater near you, please contact the theater directly and ask for it.” C.K.’s website lists no other additional screenings yet and currently says “CHECK BACK FOR LOCAL THEATERS” for its July 1 release.
So, will “Fourth Of July” get wider distribution and further salvage Louis C.K.’s career? Don’t hold your breath. Watch the trailer for the new movie below.