**World Premiere: SXSW 2019**
**Opening Night: 2019 SEATTLE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL**
“Lynn Shelton’s loose, funny improv-based comedy feature [has an] excellent cast and something to say. One wishes more tightly scripted comedy screenplays had such savory dialogue, or inspired character conceptions . “
– Dennis Harvey, VARIETY
“Fun and funny, and we’re never entirely sure where it’s going. A sense of generosity and an emotional core in addition to its laughs.”
– Kimber Myers, THE PLAYLIST
Synopsis:
This riotously funny, improv-based eighth feature from acclaimed director Lynn Shelton (Outside In, Your Sister’s Sister, Humpday) is filled with her trademark insight and humanism while slyly exploring our increasingly divided culture of conspiracy theories and revisionist history. When Cynthia (Jillian Bell, 22 Jump Street) and Mary (Michaela Watkins, “Casual”) show up to collect Cynthia’s inheritance from her deceased grandfather, the only item she’s received is an antique sword that he believed to be proof that the South won the Civil War. The two attempt to unload the object to a curmudgeonly pawnshop owner Mel (Marc Maron, “GLOW”) and his man-child sidekick Nathaniel (Jon Bass, Molly’s Game). When Mel and Nathaniel discover there’s a black market for the relic, the two pairs reluctantly join forces to sell this rarefied ‘prover item’ to the highest bidder. The adventure that ensues takes the four of them on a wild journey into the depths of conspiracy theory and Southern disillusionment. Anchored by a hilarious and emotionally raw performance from Maron (who also wrote and performed the music), Sword of Trust is a sharp, unexpected ensemble comedy with Shelton’s authentic take on the complexities of interpersonal relationships on full display.
Director: Lynn Shelton
Screenwriters: Lynn Shelton, Mike O’Brien
Cast: Marc Maron, Jillian Bell, Michaela Watkins, Jon Bass, Toby Huss, Dan Bakkedahl
Release Date: New York on July 12 (IFC Center and The Landmark at 57 West); Los Angeles on July 19 (Landmark’s Nuart Theatre)
TRT: 89 min.
Producers: Ted Speaker, Lynn Shelton
Executive Producers: Peter Gilbert, Eddie Linker, Joe Swanberg
Director of Photography: Jason Oldak
Editor: Tyler L. Cook
