Sony Pictures has rescheduled the theatrical debut of Eric Appel's latest film, "The Breadwinner," starring renowned comedian Nate Bargatze. Originally slated for a March 13 release, the movie will now hit cinemas on May 29. This strategic shift aims to align the film's premiere with the onset of summer breaks for many students, potentially broadening its family audience reach. "The Breadwinner" marks a significant milestone as Bargatze's inaugural feature film, following his acclaimed hosting of the Emmy Awards.
The film, a family-oriented comedy, centers on Nate Wilcox (portrayed by Bargatze), a father who finds himself solely responsible for his three young daughters. This occurs after his wife, Katie (Mandy Moore), secures a lucrative business agreement following a successful appearance on the popular show "Shark Tank." The narrative explores the comedic challenges and heartwarming moments that arise as Nate navigates his new role as the primary caregiver while his wife pursues her career ambitions.
The ensemble cast supporting Bargatze and Moore includes notable names such as Colin Jost, Kumail Nanjiani, Will Forte, Zach Cherry, Martin Herlihy, and Kate Berlant. Eric Appel, known for his work on "Weird: The Al Yankovic Story," directed the film from a script he co-wrote with Dan Lagana. Both Appel and Lagana, alongside Jeremy Latcham, also served as producers for the project.
This new release date places "The Breadwinner" in direct competition with Paramount's horror film "Passenger," directed by André Øvredal and featuring Melissa Leo, Lou Llobell, and Jacob Scipio. Despite the competition, Sony is optimistic about the film's prospects, particularly given Bargatze's immense popularity as a stand-up comedian and the film's appeal as a movie suitable for the entire family. Nicole Brown, President of TriStar Pictures, emphasized the personal and authentic connection between Bargatze's comedy and the film's premise, noting his desire to create content that families can enjoy together, filling a niche beyond animated features.
The decision to move the release date to late May positions "The Breadwinner" as a prime contender for the summer movie season, hoping to capture a wide audience seeking lighthearted and engaging family entertainment. Bargatze's transition from stand-up to the big screen, coupled with a compelling story and strong supporting cast, suggests a promising outlook for the film's success.