The Unholy Trinity Western Thrills at Zurich Film Festival with a Sold-Out Closing Night Premiere
The 20th edition of the Zurich Film Festival (ZFF) wrapped up in spectacular style with the world premiere of The Unholy Trinity, a gripping western thriller directed by Richard Gray. Starring Brandon Lessard, Pierce Brosnan, and Samuel L. Jackson, the film brought the festival to a powerful close, captivating a packed audience at the Kongresshaus Theater with its thrilling narrative and standout performances.
The iconic 1,000-seat venue was filled to capacity as eager attendees gathered for the sold-out screening. Set against the harsh landscape of 1870s Montana, The Unholy Trinity explores themes of revenge, moral conflict, and loyalty, all centered around the character of Henry Broadway, played by Brandon Lessard. In one of his most intense performances to date, Lessard portrayed a man torn between fulfilling his duties and seeking vengeance, a dilemma that resonated deeply with the audience.
Reflecting on the film’s reception, Lessard shared, “Bringing this Western to life and seeing the audience respond so positively at Zurich is truly special. It’s an honor to be part of a film that resonates so deeply.” The actor’s heartfelt remarks were echoed by the enthusiastic applause from the audience, cementing his place as a rising star in Hollywood.
Adding further gravitas to the film were veteran actors Pierce Brosnan and Samuel L. Jackson, who portrayed Sheriff Gabriel Dove and the enigmatic St. Christopher, respectively. Their dynamic performances added layers of tension and intrigue to the story, and their on-screen chemistry with Lessard was one of the most talked-about elements of the film. Director Richard Gray, whose work continues to redefine modern Westerns, noted that the response from the festival-goers was overwhelming. “Seeing The Unholy Trinity premiere to a sold-out crowd as the closing night film at ZFF was an incredible experience. The audience’s response was beyond what we could have hoped for, and we are truly honored to have been part of such a fantastic festival.”
For producer Kellie Brooks, the film’s debut at ZFF was an ideal way to introduce their work to a wider audience. “Seeing the audience embrace our film at Zurich is beyond anything we could have hoped for—it’s the perfect launch for our story into the world.”
The Zurich Film Festival, renowned for highlighting both rising talents and celebrated filmmakers, once again delivered a memorable closing night. Over the course of 11 days, ZFF celebrated the best of world cinema, attracting film industry heavyweights, critics, and cinephiles. With The Unholy Trinity marking the final screening of the festival’s 20th edition, the event ended on a high note, maintaining its reputation for curating a stellar lineup of films.
The film, which is already generating buzz in Hollywood and is being handled domestically by UTA, is poised to make waves upon its general release. Its blend of compelling storytelling, stunning cinematography, and a star-studded cast has made it one of the most talked-about films of the festival.
As ZFF 2024 drew to a close, The Unholy Trinity left an indelible mark on attendees, further establishing Zurich as a premier destination for cinematic excellence. With a powerful narrative, unforgettable performances, and a visually stunning depiction of the Old West, The Unholy Trinity is sure to remain in the spotlight long after the festival lights dim.
Written by: Carla Morton
Photo credits: Getty Images
