, it’s difficult to find more pure and deliberate performances from two of today’s most revered actors. If this late-bloomer in the awards season can make enough noise and get enough butts in screening seats, a worthy play for several categories could be on the horizon. In addition, this seems like the first film that feels authentically identifiable to Apple Original Films, which will bode well for its awards brand moving forward.
“Swan Song” takes place in the near future where family man Cameron Turner is diagnosed with a terminal illness. To shield his family from grief, he grapples with the decision to swap himself out with an identical clone to continue raising his children and being a loving husband.with Benedict Cumberbatch , Andrew Garfield and Denzel Washington , who is also on the Apple Original Films roster.
Ali’s career has been so enjoyable to watch unfold over the last few years. Always adding a sense of richness in more minor roles in films like “The Place Beyond the Pines” and “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1” , he ushered a colossal breakout moment with Barry Jenkins’ best-picture winner “Moonlight” . Despite minimal screen time, he dominated the precursors that season, ultimately winning supporting actor and becoming the first Muslim actor to win an Academy Award.
Harris, who received her first nom for “Moonlight,” is gorgeously reverent, delivering another awards-worthy turn. The final scene will destroy every audience member’s tear ducts. She and Ali simply continue to make magic together. Though brief, eight-time Oscar-nominee Glenn Close, Adam Beach and especially Awkwafina are bright spots throughout the film.