VIDEO: Steve Carell Is a Doll Photographer Daydreaming About Fighting Nazis in ‘Welcome to Marwen’ Trailer

Steve Carell blurs the line between real life and make-believe in “Welcome to Marwen,” the upcoming Robert Zemeckis (“Forrest Gump”) fantasy drama inspired by a documentary about artist, photographer, and Nazi hate crime-survivor Mark Hogancamp.

The film’s newly released trailer (above) begins with Hogancamp (Carell) painting a doll that looks just like him, save for its World War II bomber jacket. He’s putting the finishing touches on a unique art and photo installation showcasing Marwen, a tiny society he cobbled together from parts of old action figures and Barbies. It’s an art project that came to be after Mark was beaten and nearly killed by a group of Nazis.

“I was a hell of a good artist, and now I can barely write my name.” Carell’s character explains in the clip (above). “So, my dolls have to tell the story.”

In a montage fittingly set to Foo Fighters’ “Walk,” the trailer shows Hogancamp learning to not only eat and walk again but also to cope with the violent trauma he endured. So, he populates his miniature world of Marwen with the strong women in his life, including his physical therapist (Janelle Monáe) and the pretty girl next door (Leslie Mann). Soon, Mark is daydreaming he’s one of the dolls killing WW II-era Nazis by the dozen.

Carell may still be best known for his comedic roles, but in recent years the actor and repeat Stern Show guest has scored award nominations for his portrayals of real-life figures like tennis pro Bobby Riggs (“Battle of the Sexes”) and murderous millionaire John du Pont (“Foxcatcher”). Steve sat down with Howard a few years back to discuss “Foxcatcher,” revealing his portrayal of du Pont was so dark the film’s other actors were uncomfortable around him on set.

“Welcome to Marwen,” also starring Diane Kruger (“Inglourious Basterds”) and Gwendoline Christie (“Game of Thrones”) opens Nov 21. Watch the trailer (above).