Ping pong lovers unite; today saw the release of the trailer for Susan Sarandon and Lea Thompson-helmed PING PONG SUMMER. The comedy, written and directed by Michael Tully (SEPTIEN), premiered at this year’s Sundance Film Festival and has since done the rounds at various others including SXSW and the upcoming San Francisco Film Festival. It has no release date for here in the UK but if it continues to do well on the circuit it may be picked up by a distributor yet.
From first viewing we’re already loving the 80’s-beats soundtrack, 80’s movie references and 80’s legends making up the cast.
Here’s the synopsis:
The year is 1985. Rad Miracle is a shy 13-year-old white kid who’s obsessed with two things: ping pong and hip hop. During his family’s annual summer vacation to Ocean City, Maryland, Rad makes a new best friend, experiences his first real crush, becomes the target of rich, racist local bullies, and finds an unexpected mentor in his outcast next-door neighbor. Ping Pong Summer is about that time in your life when you’re treated like an alien by everyone around you, even though you know deep down you’re as funky fresh as it gets.
We love a coming-of-age story here at THN and this trailer reminded us of last years’ THE WAY, WAY BACK in terms of style. It’s all about your young lead actor in these movies; they ultimately make or break the movie and, from what we’ve just seen, newcomer Marcello Conte looks set to shine.
Have a look at the trailer and see what you make of it for yourself – it’s just shot to the top of our ‘ones to watch’ list!
Originally from deep in the London suburbs Vicky is now enjoying the novelty of being able to catch a night bus home from anywhere in the city. Her favourite films are anything John Hughes is involved in, SAY ANYTHING and DEAD POETS SOCIETY. Don't mention the rumour she once served cold tea to Robert Webb and Olivia Coleman. Find her on twitter @chafferty
