'The Current War' Release Date Delayed to 2018

By Denise See, Christian Post Contributor Monday, October 16, 2017

Following the controversy that erupted over Harvey Weinstein, The Weinstein Co. has delayed the release of "The Current War."

The film, which stars Benedict Cumberbatch and Michael Shannon, was screened earlier this year at the Toronto Film Festival. It was initially scheduled to premiere in select U.S. cinemas on Nov. 24. However, according to Deadline, The Weinstein Co. has pushed back its release to an unspecified date in 2018.

Other films from The Weinstein Co., however, are still on track to release as planned. "Polaroid" is set to open in theaters on Nov. 22, while "Paddington 2" will premiere on Jan. 12.

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As previously reported, "The Current War" is a historical film that depicts the War of the Currents that transpired between Thomas Edison (Cumberbatch) and George Westinghouse (Shannon). The trailer that was released features the start of the age of electricity, with Edison and Shannon fighting for control. It also features Nicholas Hoult as Nikola Tesla, an equally prominent figure in the War of the Currents. 

According to history, Edison ultimately lost the war, with the world favoring Westinghouse's alternating current. Edison was subsequently forced out of his own company, Edison Electric. The company is now known as General Electric.

The release date delay comes after sexual harassment allegations against Weinstein emerged. Multiple actresses and employees have already come forward as victims, including Rose McGowan, Angelina Jolie, Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Beckinsale, Heather Graham, and Cara Delevingne.

Cumberbatch himself has already spoken out about the Weinstein scandal, releasing a statement to the media.

"I am utterly disgusted by the continuing revelations of Harvey Weinstein's horrifying and unforgivable actions...We need to collectively stand up and support victims of abuse such as the brave and inspiring women who have spoken out against him and say we hear you and believe you," he said.

"The Current War" will premiere sometime in 2018.