In what is the TMZ equivalent of “The Tree Of Life” trailer dropping today, following its official trailer release, Summit has now pegged the Mel Gibson comedy “The Beaver” for a March 23, 2011 release.
With what will be the actor’s attempted re-entry into Hollywood, the truth-is-stranger-than-fiction film follows the story of Walter Black, a husband and successful toy company CEO who finds himself in a rut after separating from his wife. However, Black soon uncovers a beaver hand puppet which he is able to use as a tool for communication and a wall between himself and his life. From what we know the beaver’s outbursts are bit more genteel than those of the real life Mel Gibson. The film also co-stars Anton Yelchin, who plays Black’s son, and “Winter’s Bone” star Jennifer Lawrence, who plays Yelchin’s girlfriend. Jodie Foster directed and also stars.
The film opens in a limited run on March 23rd before expanding on April 8, 2011 and this will definitely be a case where Summit will be gauging reaction before deciding how wide (or not) the release of the film is. No word yet if the previously reported date of February 11, 2011 for the UK still stands but we’ll try to confirm. [Deadline]