Fences Trailer: Denzel Washington Directs Viola Davis

When an August Wilson play is adapted for the big screen with Denzel Washington and Viola Davis reprising two powerhouse roles that won them Tony Awards on Broadway, it’s almost impossible for there not to be Oscar buzz. Such is the case with “Fences,” whose first teaser left a bold impression at the end of September.

The new official trailer is bound to raise anticipation through the roof, as it features some of the most intense work of both actors’ film career. Davis recently confirmed she’d be campaigning for Best Supporting Actress, and from the looks of it she’s a bonafide frontrunner. Read our review of the drama right here.

Washington, who also directs, stars as Troy Maxson, a former baseball player now working as a waste collector in Pittsburgh and struggling to provide for his family. Much of the drama concerns Troy coming to terms with his life, which leads to hostility between himself and his son, Cory. Stephen Henderson, Russell Hornsby and Mykelti Williamson co-star, also reprising their roles from the 2010 stage production.

“Fences” marks Washington’s third outing behind the camera, following “Antoine Fisher” and “The Great Debaters.” Paramount Pictures will release “Fences” in select theaters Christmas Day. Watch the official trailer below.