This week saw the release of our first footage from Ben Stiller‘s The Secret Life of Walter Mitty and, like many, we were surprised. The director, who had previously delivered such films as Zoolander and Tropic Thunder, looked to be stepping up his scope in a major way for the remake of the 1947 version.

Although a release isn’t coming until Christmas Day, those in New York will have a chance to see it much earlier, as Film Society of Lincoln Center have announced it as their centerpiece gala for their 51st New York Film Festival, where it will screen on Sunday, October 5th. Check out two quotes and the trailer below, a new still above, and return for our review from the festival, which will open with Paul GreengrassCaptain Phillips.

NYFF’s Director of Programming and Selection Committee Chair Kent Jones:

Ben Stiller has expanded on James Thurber’s beloved short story and crafted a beautifully lyrical comic epic, grounded in present day realities and concerns. He is wonderful in the lead, Kristen Wiig is nothing short of magical as the woman of his dreams, and it’s great to see Shirley MacLaine in perfect form. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty is one terrific ride, and I’m thrilled that we’re able to present it as our Centerpiece screening.

Ben Stiller:

I am incredibly honored and excited to have The Secret Life of Walter Mitty premiere in the New York Film Festival. When I first heard, I wanted to make sure it was the one at Lincoln Center and not one in Utica or somewhere. Making this film has been a wonderful collaboration with a really special screenwriter, Steve Conrad, and all the extremely talented cast and crew who worked on this movie. Having grown up a few blocks away on Riverside Drive, I couldn’t be happier to have it premiere here.

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