Exclusive: Here’s the Gently Creepy Poster for Todd Solondz’s “Dark Horse”

Todd Solondz and his “Happiness” producer, Ted Hope, reteamed for Solondz’s latest, “Dark Horse,” which will premiere at the Venice International Film Festival. And while it’s hard to top the iconic Daniel Clowes’ comic-book portraits that advertised their 1998 film, a little chest hair and a cursive name necklace can go a long way.

The poster’s groovy design is courtesy Mojo, the same graphics house that produced one-sheets for Hope’s “SUPER” and Solondz’s “Life During Wartime” as well as “Greenberg,” “Where the Wild Things Are” and “300.” [Go to page 2 for full one-sheet. No, this isn’t a trafficmonger move; the layout looks much better and lets the poster shine. You can also see the full poster here.]

Jordan Gelber portrays the film’s titular dark horse — a man in his 30s who’s an avid toy collector, lives with his parents (Mia Farrow and Christopher Walken) and works for his dad. When he meets a woman (Selma Blair) he’s inspired to make more of his life — but, this being a Todd Solondz movie, it results in tragedy.

And, because this is a Solondz movie, the film’s teaser clip that dropped yesterday is like a digital New Yorker cartoon of the very driest black humor. (Note: Your settings are fine. The sound and movement here are minimalist.)

“Dark Horse” will also screen at Deauville and Toronto.

[Full one sheet poster on page 2.]

Poster for Todd Solondz’s “Dark Horse.”