Filmmaker James Gray’s “Armageddon Time” has been billed as a “deeply personal story on the strength of family, the complexity of friendship and the generational pursuit of the American Dream.” The semi-autobiographical film addresses tense themes like generational trauma from the Holocaust, Jewish immigration and assimilation as well as racism.
The film also bosts an impressive ensemble cast as the emotional story intertwines struggles of different children, the fight to maintain their friendship and the expectations placed upon them by their families.
So how can you see the new film from the director behind “The Lost City of Z,” “The Immigrant” and “Ad Astra?” All your questions answered below.
When Does “Armageddon Time” Come Out?
The film premiered at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival in May, and will receive a limited release in theaters Oct. 28.
Is “Armageddon Time” Streaming or in Theaters?
The film only has plans for a theatrical release so far, but seeing that production company Focus Features is owned by Universal Pictures, the film will msot likely head to Peacock for streaming, eventually.
“Armageddon Time” is playing in select theaters on Oct. 28 and will expand nationwide on Nov. 11.
What Is “Armageddon Time” About?
Set during the 1980s, the story takes after the filmmaker’s own life story in semi-autobiographical fashion. Paul Graff, a young Jewish boy whose great-grandmother escaped the Holocaust to settle in America, befriends a young Black boy only to be told by his family to not associate with him. Racism brings Graff’s mother to send him to a new school and his parents to put pressure on him to abandon the friendship, but Graff cannot align with the idea of doing so. His grandfather also makes him think twice about certain aspects of the social norms during their time.
Who Is in the “Armageddon Time” Cast?
Michael Banks Repeta (“The Black Phone”) portrays Paul Graff. Jeremy Strong (“Succession”) portrays Paul’s father Irving, and Anne Hathaway portrays his mother Esther. Jaylin Webb (“The Wonder Years”) plays Graff’s Black classmate Johnny Davis. Banks’ grandfather Aaron is brought to life by Oscar Award winner Anthony Hopkins (“The Father”). Jessica Chastain also makes a cameo as Maryanne Trump.