Apple is delaying the planned theatrical release of The Banker following sexual abuse claims against Bernard Garrett Jr., a producer and son of the real-life subject played by Anthony Mackie.
The drama had been scheduled to arrive in theaters for a limited run on Dec. 6, and later stream on Apple’s new service in January.
But on Friday, news came that the release would be delayed indefinitely as the tech giant looks into allegations against Garrett, whose name was recently removed from publicity materials.
The uncertainty comes after the company abruptly canceled the Nov. 21 premiere at the AFI Film Festival in Los Angeles.
“Last week some concerns surrounding the film were brought to our attention,” Apple said in a statement Wednesday, a day before the premiere. “We, along with the filmmakers, need some time to look into these matters and determine the best next steps.”
As previously reported, Garrett’s two half-sisters have accused him of molesting them when they were little girls. He has denied all of their allegations.
The women also claimed the film is full of inaccuracies, and alleged the script was specifically written to leave out key details.
“This entire project is poisoned. It’s the fruit of crime, lies and deception,” Cynthia Garrett, a former MTV and VH1 personality, told The Hollywood Reporter.
The Banker is based on the life of Garrett’s father, Bernard Garrett Sr., who in the 1950s and ’60s recruited a white man to front his real estate business in order to help African Americans overcome racial barriers and secure bank loans. The film co-stars Samuel L. Jackson, Nia Long and Nicholas Hoult. It’s directed by George Nolfi.
The movie was being positioned as an awards season contender, but with its theatrical release delayed, it’s possible the film will miss the deadline to qualify for the upcoming Academy Awards.
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