James Franco has put Rob Lowe under pressure in the Confession trailer. The historical drama Ben Shapiro wrote is set in 1938 Moscow. The picture follows a former literature professor whom Soviet authorities arrest and interrogate.
Its official logline reads, “In Stalin’s 1938 Moscow, a disillusioned former literature professor, Alexei, is arrested and brought to the infamous Lubyanka Prison. There, Alexei faces interrogation by his brilliant and brutal former student, Vladimir.”
Check out the Confession trailer below:
What happens in the Confession trailer?
The trailer begins with Soviet authorities arresting Alexei, played by Lowe, in Moscow in 1938 for alleged counter-revolutionary activity under Article 58. They take him to Lubyanka Prison, where gloomy corridors and dark, dingy cells highlight the harsh conditions of his detention.
Vladimir, played by Franco, questions Alexei about his alleged disloyalty. He explains that authorities must deal with numerous people accused of crimes against the state, saying, “They have to deal with so many enemies of the state, all of whom claim their innocence, who protest, who cry.”
Vladimir then tells Alexei, “Today is your opportunity to demonstrate your loyalty to the people.” When Alexei asks why he is there, Vladimir replies, “Of course. But you already know, don’t you.” Vladimir also reminds him of his duty.
Alexei maintains his innocence, insisting, “I have told you I know nothing.” The trailer also shows him interacting with another prisoner, who warns him that everyone eventually breaks under interrogation. Alexei responds briefly, “Maybe,” leaving his ability to withstand the pressure uncertain.
The cast includes Lowe and Franco, along with Jennifer Jason Leigh, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Nick Nolte, Richard Brake, Emile Hirsch, Brad Dourif, and Dean Norris. Václav Marhoul, known for directing The Painted Bird, helms the historical drama.
Shapiro also serves as a producer alongside Dallas Sonnier, Lowe, Travis Mills, and Amanda Presmyk. With a 130-minute runtime, the film blends historical and dramatic elements to depict an interrogation shaped by fear, suspicion, and political repression.
Confession will premiere on The Daily Wire on November 11, 2026.
Originally reported on ComingSoon.
