Samuel Goldwyn Films has released the first trailer for Andrew Renzi’s well-reviewed directorial debut “The Benefactor,” which features a dynamite performance from Richard Gere.
Originally known as “Franny,” the indie drama stars Gere as a wealthy yet troubled philanthropist who enters the lives of a young married couple played by Dakota Fanning and rising star Theo James.
Gere’s character, Franny, is wracked with guilt as he holds himself responsible for the deaths of Fanning’s parents. Five years later, after learning of her new beau, he reaches out to help them but gets a little too close, a little too quickly.
Renzi is an up-and-coming filmmaker who draws strong performances from both Gere and James. You’ll be able to see his first film when Samuel Goldwyn Films releases it in theaters on Jan. 15.
Watch the trailer above and let us know what you think in the comments section below.
