VIDEO: Cory Michael Smith Stars as a Closeted Gay Man Returning Home for Christmas in '1985' Trailer

Cory Michael Smith stars as a closeted young professional who returns home to spend Christmas with his family in “1985,” a black-and-white drama set during the first wave of the AIDS crisis.

The actor, “Gotham” villain, and recent Stern Show guest plays Adrian, a New York advertising executive who returns to Texas for the holidays after having spent the past few years away from his family. While back at home he attempts to bond with his preteen brother Andrew (Aidan Langford) while also attempting to salvage his relationship with his deeply religious parents, played by Oscar-nominee Virginia Madsen (“Sideways”) and Golden Globe winner Michael Chiklis (“The Shield”), and reconnect with his childhood friend played by “The Gifted’s” Jamie Chung.

“1985” is written and directed by Malaysian filmmaker Yen Tan. In addition to starring in the film, Cory also executive produced it. The actor spoke to Howard about “1985” in May during his Stern Show debut as well as “First Man,” his upcoming astronaut biopic with Ryan Gosling. He also opened up about acting naked opposite “Game of Thrones” star Emilia Clarke on stage. Check out a clip from Cory’s interview with the King of All Media (below) and listen to the entire sit down here.