The Catcher In the Rye is a classic not only because it is beautifully written, but also because the story of an overthinking loner named Holden Caulfield perfectly captured the hearts and imaginations of millions, who at some point could relate to the boy's acute sense of loneliness. It's been called one of the best novels of the 20th century as well as one of the best novels ever written by an American author. And yet, this novel's author was notorious for shunning the limelight that would have embraced him.
The trailer for the upcoming investigative documentary Salinger explains that the reclusive author stopped publishing in 1965, despite wide acclaim. But this didn't stop the demand for his works or for contact with him, leading to some relentlessly seeking out a man who didn't want to be found. The tenderhearted author who changed the world of contemporary fiction died January 27th, 2010 at the age of 91. But while he is at rest, his admirers still demand to know who he was, what drove him to write, and maybe most importantly what spurred him to retreat from the world that wanted more of him.
Savages producer Shane Salerno directs this documentary that THR reports contains more than 150 interview subjects in the search to uncover the truth of Salinger's life and character. Among those featured are close friends, family members, and big-named admirers like Edward Norton, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Judd Apatow, Danny DeVito, and Gore Vidal.
The Weinstein Company will be screening Sallinger on the festival circuit leading up to its theatrical run on September 6th. PBS will later air the doc as part of their American Masters series.
