In his first narrative feature since the 2001's totally solid "The Pledge," Sean Penn has directed "Into the Wild," an adaptation of Jon Krakauer's book about a young and restless wayfarer. Paramount Vantage is releasing it this fall, and they've given the IGN network the exclusive trailer.

Starring Emile Hirsch as Christopher McCandless, "Into the Wild" recounts McCandless' story of ditching the family and lighting out for the Alaskan wilderness. At one point in the trailer, Vince Vaughn shows up as a friendly kook in a bar. "Into the Wild" is essentially a survival movie, mixed with some beat soul-searching and that patented smoldering angst expected from something Sean Penn-related. Don't expect a super fun happy ending.



I also can't resist adding that another Paramount Vantage flick, "Margot at the Wedding," had its trailer debut today. It's the newest film from writer-director Noah Baumbach, and everything about it seemed like some fey Wes Anderson/Eric Rohmer mash-up.

Then I remembered I'm a sucker for everything Anderson and Rohmer, and this delightful trailer has won me over with its choice music selections, natural acting and dialogue, and a well-sampled Jack Black. It's always initially weird to hear about Jack Black in a more serious role. But, once again, here he is, not making faces or overworking his eyebrow muscles and it does looks like the role's going to work out. You can check out the trailer at ComingSoon.net.

"Into the Wild" comes out this fall. Check out the trailer here. And it's October 19 for "Margot."