When it comes to winter, most moviegoers have come to expect a slate of Oscar contenders filling their theaters. But those indifferent about the awards season can always find a few counterprogramming choices. For example, audiences this December can choose to watch Marley & Me, Punisher: War Zone...or they can watch the latest attempt from Mariah Carey.

Tennessee, a movie about two brothers embarking on a journey to find their real father, had its debut back in April at the Tribeca Film Festival. Now the film will officially premiere in late 2008, approximately seven years after Carey’s disastrous turn in Glitter.

In the film, Mariah stars as a waitress trying to escape a bad marriage. The aspiring country singer joins the men on their road trip when they travel through her town. This role was a part Janet Jackson had originally intended to play. In fact, the Jackson specifically gained 60 lbs. for the character. (She said the producers wanted to see her “in a different light.”) But scheduling conflicts eventually forced Janet to drop out of the movie. (Weight gain was apparently not a requirement for Carey’s participation.)

Those interested in previewing Tennessee can find a few a few clips after the jump.