AFI Fest made an unprecedented move by making a last-minute switch of their closing night film. The Banker, which stars Samuel L. Jacksons, Anthony Mackie, Nicholas Hoult & Nia Long, was set to close the fest off on Thursday night but the screening of Apple’s first major film release was canceled due to damaging charges against a family member of the Garretts.
Anthony Mackie plays the late Bernard Garrett Sr. in the true story set in 1963. Reportedly a family member has leveled some troubling allegations about Garrett Sr’s son, Bernard Garrett Jr. and shared them with at least one Hollywood trade paper which is planning a story. Even though allegations aren’t leveled against anyone featured in the film, Apple felt it was best to proceed with caution:
“We purchased The Banker earlier this year as we were moved by the film’s entertaining and educational story about social change and financial literacy. Last week some concerns surrounding the film were brought to our attention. We, along with the filmmakers, need some time to look into these matters and determine the best next steps. In light of this, we are no longer premiering The Banker at AFI Fest.”
The Banker is scheduled to hit theatres on December 6, and then Apple TV’s new streaming service early next year. Netflix’s Marriage Story, already in theatrical release, has been tapped to take the closing night slot at AFI Fest after The Banker’s cancellation.
