Remember that old argument that foreign directors who make the jump to English-language and/or Hollywood studio films, usually make something that’s not so good? Pascal Laugier (Martyrs) might be adding more proof to that theory.

The international trailer for The Tall Man (aka The Secret) features Jessica Biel trying to find her son after he’s taken, possibly, by a sort of urban legend who wears a big black cloak and could probably play professional basketball.

It’s pretty bland, but it might just be bitterness that this isn’t that Angus Scrimm documentary everybody’s been clamoring for. Check it out for yourself:

Martyrs was insanity, which is probably why this straightforward-looking flick seems set to disappoint. It’s being judged against a show stopper. Plus, it looks as generic as something that doesn’t deserve it’s own simile.

And, again, how do you borrow a villainous name as iconic as that one in Phantasm? Angus Scrimm for life! Snaking that name is a bold move, especially if this villain isn’t as awesome. It gives him a lot to live up to. On the plus side, Stephen McHattie! Always a good casting choice.

What do you think?