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Marvel’s favorite frenemies are back in the second trailer for the hotly anticipated “Deadpool and Wolverine” — the third installment in the “Deadpool” series of films and the first set in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
This time, Deadpool and Wolverine fight like bloody hell to the tune of Madonna’s “Like a Prayer.”
“I’m about to lose everything that I’ve ever cared about,” Deadpool tells Wolverine in the trailer, to which Wolverine responds, “Not my fucking problem.”
“Is that what you said when your world went to shit?” Deadpool retorts, provoking Wolverine to strike his crotch with those claws before Deadpool shoots him several times in the torso.
Cut to the two heroes chumming it up over lunch: “Wanna talk about what’s haunting you, or should we wait for a third act flashback?”
The threequel stars Ryan Reynolds’ Deadpool and brings back Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine, whom...
This time, Deadpool and Wolverine fight like bloody hell to the tune of Madonna’s “Like a Prayer.”
“I’m about to lose everything that I’ve ever cared about,” Deadpool tells Wolverine in the trailer, to which Wolverine responds, “Not my fucking problem.”
“Is that what you said when your world went to shit?” Deadpool retorts, provoking Wolverine to strike his crotch with those claws before Deadpool shoots him several times in the torso.
Cut to the two heroes chumming it up over lunch: “Wanna talk about what’s haunting you, or should we wait for a third act flashback?”
The threequel stars Ryan Reynolds’ Deadpool and brings back Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine, whom...
- 4/22/2024
- by Diego Ramos Bechara
- Variety - Film News
Claymation legends Nick Park and Merlin Crossingham will offer stop-motion fans a sneak peek at their upcoming Wallace & Gromit film at this year’s Annecy animation festival.
The still-untitled feature will see inveterate, cheese-loving inventor Wallace designing a “smart gnome” for the family garden who begins to develop a mind of its own. As events spiral out of control, it is up to faithful dog Gromit to put things right. Park and Crossingham co-directed the film, based on a story by Park and a screenplay from Shaun the Sheep and Gnomeo & Juliet writer Mark Burton.
The film, which will premiere on Netflix worldwide outside the U.K., where it will have a first-release window on the BBC, is the second feature from Aardman Animations based on the beloved characters, following the Oscar-winning Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit (2005) and the series of award-winning shorts, including Oscar-winners The Wrong...
The still-untitled feature will see inveterate, cheese-loving inventor Wallace designing a “smart gnome” for the family garden who begins to develop a mind of its own. As events spiral out of control, it is up to faithful dog Gromit to put things right. Park and Crossingham co-directed the film, based on a story by Park and a screenplay from Shaun the Sheep and Gnomeo & Juliet writer Mark Burton.
The film, which will premiere on Netflix worldwide outside the U.K., where it will have a first-release window on the BBC, is the second feature from Aardman Animations based on the beloved characters, following the Oscar-winning Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit (2005) and the series of award-winning shorts, including Oscar-winners The Wrong...
- 4/22/2024
- by Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
“Lord of the Rings” owner Embracer is separating the group into three games and entertainment companies: Asmodee Group, Coffee Stain & Friends and Middle-earth Enterprises & Friends.
Asmodee is a tabletop games publisher and distributor with a studio network and IP catalogue. Coffee Stain & Friends is a gaming entity with a dual focus on indie and A/AA premium and free-to-play games for PC/console and mobile. Middle-earth Enterprises & Friends is known for its Aaa game development and publishing for PC and console, as well as managing the “The Lord of the Rings” and “Tomb Raider” IPs. Aaa is the term used to classify video games produced or distributed by a major publisher, which usually have higher development and marketing budgets than other tiers of games.
The company’s board of directors proposes that shares in two of these entities, Asmodee and Coffee Stain & Friends, will be distributed to the shareholders of Embracer Group,...
Asmodee is a tabletop games publisher and distributor with a studio network and IP catalogue. Coffee Stain & Friends is a gaming entity with a dual focus on indie and A/AA premium and free-to-play games for PC/console and mobile. Middle-earth Enterprises & Friends is known for its Aaa game development and publishing for PC and console, as well as managing the “The Lord of the Rings” and “Tomb Raider” IPs. Aaa is the term used to classify video games produced or distributed by a major publisher, which usually have higher development and marketing budgets than other tiers of games.
The company’s board of directors proposes that shares in two of these entities, Asmodee and Coffee Stain & Friends, will be distributed to the shareholders of Embracer Group,...
- 4/22/2024
- by Naman Ramachandran and K.J. Yossman
- Variety - Film News
The “One Piece” live-action series at Netflix is bringing in Joe Tracz to serve as its new co-showrunner for Season 2.
Tracz will helm the popular series based on the Eiichiro Oda manga of the same name alongside Season 1 co-showrunner, writer, and executive producer Matt Owens. Steven Maeda, who developed the series with Owens and was co-showrunner on Season 1, will step down but continue to serve as an executive producer on the series.
“Joe has brought a wealth of enthusiasm and experience into our second season that will help take ‘One Piece’ to new heights,” Owens said. “We’re incredibly lucky...
Tracz will helm the popular series based on the Eiichiro Oda manga of the same name alongside Season 1 co-showrunner, writer, and executive producer Matt Owens. Steven Maeda, who developed the series with Owens and was co-showrunner on Season 1, will step down but continue to serve as an executive producer on the series.
“Joe has brought a wealth of enthusiasm and experience into our second season that will help take ‘One Piece’ to new heights,” Owens said. “We’re incredibly lucky...
- 4/23/2024
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety - TV News
Alec Baldwin’s lawyers alleged a “stunning abuse of prosecutorial power” in the “Rust” case on Tuesday, arguing that a favorable plea offer was withdrawn last fall due to a misunderstanding about Baldwin’s role in a documentary about the case.
Baldwin is facing a trial in July in Santa Fe, N.M., on a felony charge of involuntary manslaughter in the shooting death of “Rust” cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. If convicted, he faces up to 18 months in prison.
Last October, prosecutors offered him a misdemeanor plea that would carry no jail time. But prosecutor Kari Morrissey said in a recent filing that she rescinded that offer after learning that Baldwin had “commissioned his own documentary” about Hutchins’ death, and was pressuring witnesses in the case to participate.
Concerned that Baldwin’s conduct would cause ongoing harm the victims and their families, she withdraw the offer and decided to seek a felony indictment.
Baldwin is facing a trial in July in Santa Fe, N.M., on a felony charge of involuntary manslaughter in the shooting death of “Rust” cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. If convicted, he faces up to 18 months in prison.
Last October, prosecutors offered him a misdemeanor plea that would carry no jail time. But prosecutor Kari Morrissey said in a recent filing that she rescinded that offer after learning that Baldwin had “commissioned his own documentary” about Hutchins’ death, and was pressuring witnesses in the case to participate.
Concerned that Baldwin’s conduct would cause ongoing harm the victims and their families, she withdraw the offer and decided to seek a felony indictment.
- 4/23/2024
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety - Film News
Terry Carter, who played sergeant Joe Broadhurst on the TV series “McCloud” and detective Colonel Tigh on the original “Battlestar Galactica,” died at his home in New York, N.Y., Tuesday morning. He was 95.
Born John Everett DeCoste in Brooklyn, N.Y., on Dec. 16, 1928, to parents of Dominican, Argentine and African American descent, Carter would go on to become the first Black TV news anchor for Boston’s Wbz-tv Eyewitness News, where he also became their first opening night drama and movie critic. He was also one of the first Black regulars on the 1956 TV sitcom series “The Phil Silvers Show,” in which he played Private Sugarman.
Carter’s other credits include the 1970 TV movie “Company of Killers,” in which he starred alongside Van Johnson and Ray Milland, and the 1974 film “Foxy Brown” with Pam Grier.
In 1979 Carter formed the Council for Positive Images, a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing intercultural and interethnic understanding through media.
Born John Everett DeCoste in Brooklyn, N.Y., on Dec. 16, 1928, to parents of Dominican, Argentine and African American descent, Carter would go on to become the first Black TV news anchor for Boston’s Wbz-tv Eyewitness News, where he also became their first opening night drama and movie critic. He was also one of the first Black regulars on the 1956 TV sitcom series “The Phil Silvers Show,” in which he played Private Sugarman.
Carter’s other credits include the 1970 TV movie “Company of Killers,” in which he starred alongside Van Johnson and Ray Milland, and the 1974 film “Foxy Brown” with Pam Grier.
In 1979 Carter formed the Council for Positive Images, a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing intercultural and interethnic understanding through media.
- 4/23/2024
- by Lexi Carson
- Variety - Film News
Terry Carter, who played sergeant Joe Broadhurst on the TV series “McCloud” and detective Colonel Tigh on the original “Battlestar Galactica,” died at his home in New York, N.Y., Tuesday morning. He was 95.
Born John Everett DeCoste in Brooklyn, N.Y., on Dec. 16, 1928, to parents of Dominican, Argentine and African American descent, Carter would go on to become the first Black TV news anchor for Boston’s Wbz-tv Eyewitness News, where he also became their first opening night drama and movie critic. He was also one of the first Black regulars on the 1956 TV sitcom series “The Phil Silvers Show,...
Born John Everett DeCoste in Brooklyn, N.Y., on Dec. 16, 1928, to parents of Dominican, Argentine and African American descent, Carter would go on to become the first Black TV news anchor for Boston’s Wbz-tv Eyewitness News, where he also became their first opening night drama and movie critic. He was also one of the first Black regulars on the 1956 TV sitcom series “The Phil Silvers Show,...
- 4/23/2024
- by Lexi Carson
- Variety - TV News
[This story contains some spoilers from the premiere of The Jinx — Part Two.]
When speaking recently about the remarkable series of events that led to Robert Durst’s arrest one day before The Jinx aired its season one finale in 2015, the filmmakers behind The Jinx — Part Two, which premiered its six-episode follow-up on Sunday, revealed that director Andrew Jarecki knew from the FBI when Durst went on the run.
“Andrew knew that he was already on the run because there was some talk about some personal danger that Andrew was in,” executive producer Zac Stuart-Pontier told The Hollywood Reporter. “So, he did know that for those four or five days that [Durst] was on the run. But this was not common knowledge.”
Jarecki acknowledged there was confusion about what the public knew at the time, including when the filmmakers submitted evidence for the police investigation into Durst for the 2000 murder of his close friend, Susan Berman. The Jinx — Part Two explained via a title...
When speaking recently about the remarkable series of events that led to Robert Durst’s arrest one day before The Jinx aired its season one finale in 2015, the filmmakers behind The Jinx — Part Two, which premiered its six-episode follow-up on Sunday, revealed that director Andrew Jarecki knew from the FBI when Durst went on the run.
“Andrew knew that he was already on the run because there was some talk about some personal danger that Andrew was in,” executive producer Zac Stuart-Pontier told The Hollywood Reporter. “So, he did know that for those four or five days that [Durst] was on the run. But this was not common knowledge.”
Jarecki acknowledged there was confusion about what the public knew at the time, including when the filmmakers submitted evidence for the police investigation into Durst for the 2000 murder of his close friend, Susan Berman. The Jinx — Part Two explained via a title...
- 4/23/2024
- by Jackie Strause
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Padma Lakshmi’s post-Top Chef career may veer further into comedy, as the popular former host of the hit reality competition show shops around a comedy series script and continues to host her stand-up comedy night in Brooklyn.
In a wide-ranging and revealing New Yorker profile, out on Tuesday, Lakshmi tells writer Helen Rosner that the series was developed with Bridesmaids and Spy director Paul Feig, adding that it is a “hard comedy,” but declining to share its title or more about the show’s pitch. Lakshmi plans to produce and star in the series, she told the magazine.
Lakshmi has managed to become a household name, or at least an icon of the sensual potential of food, over her two decades as host of Bravo’s Top Chef. She exited the reality competition series in 2023 after 19 seasons, she said, “after much soul searching.” Kristen Kish filled her shoes...
In a wide-ranging and revealing New Yorker profile, out on Tuesday, Lakshmi tells writer Helen Rosner that the series was developed with Bridesmaids and Spy director Paul Feig, adding that it is a “hard comedy,” but declining to share its title or more about the show’s pitch. Lakshmi plans to produce and star in the series, she told the magazine.
Lakshmi has managed to become a household name, or at least an icon of the sensual potential of food, over her two decades as host of Bravo’s Top Chef. She exited the reality competition series in 2023 after 19 seasons, she said, “after much soul searching.” Kristen Kish filled her shoes...
- 4/23/2024
- by Kevin Dolak
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
It took Richard Shepard years to get out of “movie jail” after he made “The Linguini Incident,” the nearly-forgotten 1991 crime comedy starring David Bowie and Rosanna Arquette. But now the film is getting a second chance, with a series of screenings and an upcoming Blu-ray release.
Just about everything went wrong with the production that could go wrong, Shepard recalls. “I made this movie when I was 25 — and I was no genius at 25,” admits the director, who went on to helm features including “The Perfection” as well as TV series like Lena Dunham’s HBO comedy “Girls.”
Unlike Dunham, who was “in complete control of her artistic self” at that age, “I was not,” says Shepard.
But when his original co-producer, Sarah Jackson, suggested he try to rerelease a director’s cut of the scrappy indie caper about two restaurant employees who decide to rob their bosses, Shepard jumped at...
Just about everything went wrong with the production that could go wrong, Shepard recalls. “I made this movie when I was 25 — and I was no genius at 25,” admits the director, who went on to helm features including “The Perfection” as well as TV series like Lena Dunham’s HBO comedy “Girls.”
Unlike Dunham, who was “in complete control of her artistic self” at that age, “I was not,” says Shepard.
But when his original co-producer, Sarah Jackson, suggested he try to rerelease a director’s cut of the scrappy indie caper about two restaurant employees who decide to rob their bosses, Shepard jumped at...
- 4/23/2024
- by Pat Saperstein
- Variety - Film News
The New York Times features interviews every day. In its news report, in its podcasts like The Daily, in The New York Times Magazine.
But there was, to hear deputy managing editor Sam Dolnick explain, something missing.
“We didn’t have the really big flagship audio show that interviewed the biggest names in culture, and a place like The New York Times should,” Dolnick says.
On April 27, the Times will remedy that problem, launching what it is calling The Interview, a new franchise that will include an audio podcast, and a print version that will run in The New York Times Magazine. The Interview will be led by Talk columnist David Marchese, as well as Times audio host Lulu Garcia-Navarro.
“It felt like we had different versions of this with David’s column and some work that Lulu’s done in other parts, but we wanted to kind of build...
But there was, to hear deputy managing editor Sam Dolnick explain, something missing.
“We didn’t have the really big flagship audio show that interviewed the biggest names in culture, and a place like The New York Times should,” Dolnick says.
On April 27, the Times will remedy that problem, launching what it is calling The Interview, a new franchise that will include an audio podcast, and a print version that will run in The New York Times Magazine. The Interview will be led by Talk columnist David Marchese, as well as Times audio host Lulu Garcia-Navarro.
“It felt like we had different versions of this with David’s column and some work that Lulu’s done in other parts, but we wanted to kind of build...
- 4/23/2024
- by Alex Weprin
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Jon Stewart used the April 22 episode of “The Daily Show” to eviscerate the media for giving way too much attention to Donald Trump’s ongoing hush money trial. The host said the legal battle is both “a test of the fairness of the American legal system” and “a test of the media’s ability to cover Donald Trump in a responsible way.” Stewart determined that the media is failing when it comes to the latter.
Throwing to footage from across cable news networks, including MSNBC host Chris Hayes proclaiming this is “the trial of the century” and various media outlets...
Throwing to footage from across cable news networks, including MSNBC host Chris Hayes proclaiming this is “the trial of the century” and various media outlets...
- 4/23/2024
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety - TV News
Victoria Gold, formerly co-publisher of the Hollywood Reporter, will join Variety next month as senior VP of entertainment and special projects.
The move marks a homecoming for Gold, who previously spent eight years with Variety prior to her 14-year tenure at the Reporter, where she rose to co-publisher in 2021. In her new role, Gold will succeed Dawn Allen, the respected Variety sales executive who is retiring after a 35-year career.
“We are thrilled to have Victoria rejoin our winning team as the No. 1 entertainment business news organization in the world,” said Michelle Sobrino-Stearns, CEO and Group Publisher of Variety. “Victoria...
The move marks a homecoming for Gold, who previously spent eight years with Variety prior to her 14-year tenure at the Reporter, where she rose to co-publisher in 2021. In her new role, Gold will succeed Dawn Allen, the respected Variety sales executive who is retiring after a 35-year career.
“We are thrilled to have Victoria rejoin our winning team as the No. 1 entertainment business news organization in the world,” said Michelle Sobrino-Stearns, CEO and Group Publisher of Variety. “Victoria...
- 4/23/2024
- by William Earl
- Variety - TV News
Roadside Attractions has acquired “Exhibiting Forgiveness,” the directorial debut of artist Titus Kaphar that premiered at this year’s Sundance Film Festival.
The drama, about an acclaimed painter whose life is upended by an unexpected visit from his estranged father, stars André Holland (“Moonlight”) and John Earl Jelks (“Miracle at St. Anna”), along with Oscar nominees Andra Day (“The United States vs. Billie Holiday”) and Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor (“King Richard”). Kaphar wrote the film, in addition to directing it.
“‘Exhibiting Forgiveness’ was produced by Stephanie Allain, Derek Cianfrance, Jamie Patricof and Sean Cotton. Roadside plans to open the film nationwide for the fall awards season.
Holland stars as Tarrell Rodin, an artist who lives with his wife, singer-songwriter Aisha (Day), and young son Jermaine. His artwork explores the anguish of his youth. His path to success is derailed when his father, La’Ron (Jelks), a recovering addict desperate to make amends,...
The drama, about an acclaimed painter whose life is upended by an unexpected visit from his estranged father, stars André Holland (“Moonlight”) and John Earl Jelks (“Miracle at St. Anna”), along with Oscar nominees Andra Day (“The United States vs. Billie Holiday”) and Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor (“King Richard”). Kaphar wrote the film, in addition to directing it.
“‘Exhibiting Forgiveness’ was produced by Stephanie Allain, Derek Cianfrance, Jamie Patricof and Sean Cotton. Roadside plans to open the film nationwide for the fall awards season.
Holland stars as Tarrell Rodin, an artist who lives with his wife, singer-songwriter Aisha (Day), and young son Jermaine. His artwork explores the anguish of his youth. His path to success is derailed when his father, La’Ron (Jelks), a recovering addict desperate to make amends,...
- 4/23/2024
- by Brent Lang
- Variety - Film News
Paris-based Xr distributor Diversion Cinema will partner with the Cannes Film Festival to oversee this year’s inaugural Immersive Competition. A specialist in location-based exhibition, Diversion will handle technical duties for the 14 immersive experiences spread across the competitive and non-competitive sections.
Running concurrent to the film event, Cannes’ immersive showcase will spread out across 700 sq. m. at the Cineum – a modern multiplex about three miles from the Palais that has served as an official festival site since 2021 – while Diversion will have a staff of eight welcoming festival attendees each and every day.
“Providing for festivals like Cannes is part of our DNA,” says Diversion founder Camille Lopato. “Cannes was one of our first clients when we started our business back in 2016. Back then, it was among the first A-class festival to screen VR with such ambition, and this year Cannes is back with a vengeance, with a very fine and...
Running concurrent to the film event, Cannes’ immersive showcase will spread out across 700 sq. m. at the Cineum – a modern multiplex about three miles from the Palais that has served as an official festival site since 2021 – while Diversion will have a staff of eight welcoming festival attendees each and every day.
“Providing for festivals like Cannes is part of our DNA,” says Diversion founder Camille Lopato. “Cannes was one of our first clients when we started our business back in 2016. Back then, it was among the first A-class festival to screen VR with such ambition, and this year Cannes is back with a vengeance, with a very fine and...
- 4/23/2024
- by Ben Croll
- Variety - Film News
“Homeland” actor David Harewood thinks that actors should be able to “Black up” for roles, but warns “it’d better be fucking good.”
Speaking to The Guardian, Harewood, who also serves as president of prestigious British drama school the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, said: “We’re at this strange point in the profession where people go: ‘Oh, you can’t play that role because you’re not disabled, or you can’t play that because you’re not really from there.’ The name of the game is acting.”
He added, “Yes, we’ve got to be representative, but I...
Speaking to The Guardian, Harewood, who also serves as president of prestigious British drama school the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, said: “We’re at this strange point in the profession where people go: ‘Oh, you can’t play that role because you’re not disabled, or you can’t play that because you’re not really from there.’ The name of the game is acting.”
He added, “Yes, we’ve got to be representative, but I...
- 4/23/2024
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety - TV News
PBS landed 11 nominations, by far the most of any outlet, as Peabody Awards Board of Jurors announced this year’s 41 nominees across its documentary, news, public service and radio/podcast categories. The pubcaster’s Peabody noms include “20 Days in Mariupol,” which recently won the Oscar for best documentary feature film.
“20 Days in Mariupol” is a production of “Frontline” and the Associated Press. Among PBS series, “Frontline” landed five noms, the most of any program, while “Independent Lens” received three.
Also scoring multiple nominations was the combination of HBO and Max, which received four — including one for the doc...
“20 Days in Mariupol” is a production of “Frontline” and the Associated Press. Among PBS series, “Frontline” landed five noms, the most of any program, while “Independent Lens” received three.
Also scoring multiple nominations was the combination of HBO and Max, which received four — including one for the doc...
- 4/23/2024
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety - TV News
Amazon MGM Studios has unveiled the first trailer for Zoë Kravitz’s twisted directorial debut “Blink Twice.”
Originally titled “Pussy Island,” the movie follows Frida (Naomi Ackie) and Jess (Alia Shawkat) as they are charmed by tech billionaire Slater King (Channing Tatum) and lured to his private island for a weekend getaway. What starts as a steamy vacation soon devolves into a reality-bending nightmare that the women soon learn they must escape if they want to live.
“So do you think the human sacrifice is before or after dinner?” Jess asks Frida in jest, before things get truly scary.
Other cast members include Kyle MacLachlan, Haley Joel Osment, Adria Arjona, Geena Davis, Simon Rex, Christian Slater and Liz Caribel. Producers include Kravitz, Bruce Cohen, Garret Levitz and Tiffany Persons with Jordan Harkins and Stacy Perskie serving as executive producers.
Amazon MGM has been off to a strong start with theatrical...
Originally titled “Pussy Island,” the movie follows Frida (Naomi Ackie) and Jess (Alia Shawkat) as they are charmed by tech billionaire Slater King (Channing Tatum) and lured to his private island for a weekend getaway. What starts as a steamy vacation soon devolves into a reality-bending nightmare that the women soon learn they must escape if they want to live.
“So do you think the human sacrifice is before or after dinner?” Jess asks Frida in jest, before things get truly scary.
Other cast members include Kyle MacLachlan, Haley Joel Osment, Adria Arjona, Geena Davis, Simon Rex, Christian Slater and Liz Caribel. Producers include Kravitz, Bruce Cohen, Garret Levitz and Tiffany Persons with Jordan Harkins and Stacy Perskie serving as executive producers.
Amazon MGM has been off to a strong start with theatrical...
- 4/23/2024
- by Jack Dunn
- Variety - Film News
Strand Releasing has acquired North American rights from sales company Films Boutique to tender coming-of-age drama “Young Hearts” by Belgian newcomer Anthony Schatteman, which recently launched from the Berlin Film Festival.
Schatteman’s standout debut follows a 13-year-old boy named Elias, who feels drawn to his new neighbor, Alexander, and must overcome his conflicted feelings about being attracted to another boy. “Young Hearts” won a special mention in the Generation Kplus section of the Berlinale in February and has now been selected by Cannes Écran Junior, the Cannes Film Festival sidebar section showcasing films for all audiences that have a specific cultural and educational value for younger viewers.
The film will soon have its North American premiere at the Seattle International Film Festival in May.
“Casting directors take note: Lou Goossens [who plays Elias] in this first feature film role is an actor to watch out for,” wrote Variety critic Catherine Bray in her “Young Hearts” review,...
Schatteman’s standout debut follows a 13-year-old boy named Elias, who feels drawn to his new neighbor, Alexander, and must overcome his conflicted feelings about being attracted to another boy. “Young Hearts” won a special mention in the Generation Kplus section of the Berlinale in February and has now been selected by Cannes Écran Junior, the Cannes Film Festival sidebar section showcasing films for all audiences that have a specific cultural and educational value for younger viewers.
The film will soon have its North American premiere at the Seattle International Film Festival in May.
“Casting directors take note: Lou Goossens [who plays Elias] in this first feature film role is an actor to watch out for,” wrote Variety critic Catherine Bray in her “Young Hearts” review,...
- 4/23/2024
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety - Film News
Al Pacino and Dan Stevens have teamed up for exorcism horror film “The Ritual” from director David Midell.
XYZ Films has acquired worldwide rights to the feature, with plans to release it theatrically in 2025 and arrange international distribution at the upcoming Cannes market.
“The Ritual” was written by Midell and Enrico Natale and produced by Andrew Stevens, Mitchell Welch and Natale. Ashley Greene and Abigail Cowen round out the cast.
Based on a true story, “The Ritual” follows two priests — one questioning his faith (Stevens) and one reckoning with a troubled past (Pacino) — who must put aside their differences to save a possessed young woman through a difficult and dangerous series of exorcisms. The film is an authentic portrayal of Emma Schmidt, an American woman whose demonic possession culminated in harrowing exorcisms. Her case remains the most thoroughly documented exorcism in American history.
Pacino has multiple projects in the pipeline,...
XYZ Films has acquired worldwide rights to the feature, with plans to release it theatrically in 2025 and arrange international distribution at the upcoming Cannes market.
“The Ritual” was written by Midell and Enrico Natale and produced by Andrew Stevens, Mitchell Welch and Natale. Ashley Greene and Abigail Cowen round out the cast.
Based on a true story, “The Ritual” follows two priests — one questioning his faith (Stevens) and one reckoning with a troubled past (Pacino) — who must put aside their differences to save a possessed young woman through a difficult and dangerous series of exorcisms. The film is an authentic portrayal of Emma Schmidt, an American woman whose demonic possession culminated in harrowing exorcisms. Her case remains the most thoroughly documented exorcism in American history.
Pacino has multiple projects in the pipeline,...
- 4/23/2024
- by Alex Ritman
- Variety - Film News
‘RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars’ Season 9 Queens Revealed, Will Compete for Charity for the First Time
Category is: All Star Charity Extravaganza!
Paramount+ and World of Wonder have officially announced the Season 9 cast of “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars,” which will consist of eight alumni of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” stretching from its first season to Season 14. It’s the first season of “All Stars” — other than the all-winners seventh season — to feature just eight queens.
They will be competing for a $200,000 grand prize, but for the first time in “Drag Race” herstory, the money will be donated to the charity of the winner’s choosing. The prize is supplied through The Palette Fund, a private foundation...
Paramount+ and World of Wonder have officially announced the Season 9 cast of “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars,” which will consist of eight alumni of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” stretching from its first season to Season 14. It’s the first season of “All Stars” — other than the all-winners seventh season — to feature just eight queens.
They will be competing for a $200,000 grand prize, but for the first time in “Drag Race” herstory, the money will be donated to the charity of the winner’s choosing. The prize is supplied through The Palette Fund, a private foundation...
- 4/23/2024
- by Adam B. Vary
- Variety - TV News
Jennifer Lopez confronts her mistrust of technology to battle artificial intelligence villain Harlan, played by Simu Liu, in the latest trailer for Netflix’s upcoming sci-fi movie Atlas.
In the first trailer for Atlas, Lopez’s data-driven counter-terrorism analyst Atlas Shepherd first showed her deep distrust of AI when disaster strikes. But the new trailer sees Liu introduced as the AI character Harlan, whom Atlas has long hunted and is now shown to have nearly ended humanity after first being engineered to advance it.
So to save the the future of humanity from AI, Atlas, in the latest teaser trailer, learns to trust AI. As dystopian, ground-pounding carnage dominates the trailer, Lopez rockets off to a far-off planet to capture a renegade robot and teams up with a computer program named Smith in what appears, at times, like buddy comedy.
“I don’t need your help. I don’t trust any AI,...
In the first trailer for Atlas, Lopez’s data-driven counter-terrorism analyst Atlas Shepherd first showed her deep distrust of AI when disaster strikes. But the new trailer sees Liu introduced as the AI character Harlan, whom Atlas has long hunted and is now shown to have nearly ended humanity after first being engineered to advance it.
So to save the the future of humanity from AI, Atlas, in the latest teaser trailer, learns to trust AI. As dystopian, ground-pounding carnage dominates the trailer, Lopez rockets off to a far-off planet to capture a renegade robot and teams up with a computer program named Smith in what appears, at times, like buddy comedy.
“I don’t need your help. I don’t trust any AI,...
- 4/23/2024
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
In many ways, “Letters From Drancy” has hewed a prestigious if unremarkable path. The VR doc premiered at last year’s Venice Immersive before additional festival slots at the BFI London Film Festival, South by Southwest and now the NewImages Festival in Paris. In other ways the title is all too uncommon – as it was one of three films commissioned by the Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center, where it is now on permanent display.
The wrenching film follows survivor Marion Deichmann as she returns to her native France to retrace both family tragedy and her own path to safety. Produced by East City Films, “Letters From Drancy” is part of a trilogy that uses new-media tools to shine light on these tales. Other films include “Walk to Westerbork” and “Escape to Shanghai.”
The film also crystalizes a major theme of this year’s NewImages, showing how an affecting and artistically...
The wrenching film follows survivor Marion Deichmann as she returns to her native France to retrace both family tragedy and her own path to safety. Produced by East City Films, “Letters From Drancy” is part of a trilogy that uses new-media tools to shine light on these tales. Other films include “Walk to Westerbork” and “Escape to Shanghai.”
The film also crystalizes a major theme of this year’s NewImages, showing how an affecting and artistically...
- 4/23/2024
- by Ben Croll
- Variety - Film News
Brian Helgeland’s illustrious Hollywood career includes winning an Oscar for writing “L.A Confidential,” directing Heath Ledger’s beloved 2001 comedy “A Knight’s Tale” and scripting films such as “Man on Fire” and “Mystic River.” It also could’ve included a “Game of Thrones” spinoff series had HBO moved forward on his pitch, which was titled “Ten Thousand Ships” and centered on Queen Nymeria.
“It came out great, but I think they felt the period of my show was too far removed from the pillars of the original,” Helgeland recently told Inverse about his spinoff. “That’s why it hasn’t been picked up yet,...
“It came out great, but I think they felt the period of my show was too far removed from the pillars of the original,” Helgeland recently told Inverse about his spinoff. “That’s why it hasn’t been picked up yet,...
- 4/23/2024
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety - TV News
Studiocanal’s Amy Winehouse biopic “Back to Black” stayed atop the U.K. and Ireland box office for the second consecutive weekend with £1.8 million ($2.3 million), according to numbers from Comscore. The film now has a running total of £6.3 million.
In its second weekend, in second place, Entertainment Film Distributors’ “Civil War,” directed by Alex Garland and starring Kirsten Dunst, collected £1.05 million for a total of £3.8 million. In third position, in its fourth weekend, Universal’s “Kung Fu Panda 4” collected £901,615 for a total of £18.5 million.
In fourth place, in its fourth weekend, Warner Bros.’ “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” earned £652,128 for a total of £12.8 million. Universal’s “Abigail” debuted in fifth position with £596,590. There were no other debuts in the top 10.
Coming up, Trafalgar Releasing is opening “Aespa World Tour in Cinemas” featuring the eponymous Korean band in their concert at London’s O2 Arena, midweek.
There are a...
In its second weekend, in second place, Entertainment Film Distributors’ “Civil War,” directed by Alex Garland and starring Kirsten Dunst, collected £1.05 million for a total of £3.8 million. In third position, in its fourth weekend, Universal’s “Kung Fu Panda 4” collected £901,615 for a total of £18.5 million.
In fourth place, in its fourth weekend, Warner Bros.’ “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” earned £652,128 for a total of £12.8 million. Universal’s “Abigail” debuted in fifth position with £596,590. There were no other debuts in the top 10.
Coming up, Trafalgar Releasing is opening “Aespa World Tour in Cinemas” featuring the eponymous Korean band in their concert at London’s O2 Arena, midweek.
There are a...
- 4/23/2024
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety - Film News
A24’s political thriller “Civil War” is resonating not just in red states and blue but overseas, too.
Alex Garland’s film, starring Kirsten Dunst as a photojournalist who traverses a violently divided United States, has grossed $45.7 million in North America and $20 million internationally. Global ticket sales stand at $67.3 million through Monday, and it’s projected to cross $70 million on Tuesday.
“Civil War” is the first A24 movie to top the domestic box office, and it’s impressively remained the No. 1 film for two consecutive weekends. Given the fiercely U.S.-centric subject matter, it wasn’t clear the film would resonate at the international box office. But “Civil War” has managed to appeal to overseas audiences with the biggest turnout in the United Kingdom, where it has grossed $4.8 million, followed by the Netherlands, where it has grossed $750,000. Over the weekend, the film opened in first place in several smaller moviegoing markets,...
Alex Garland’s film, starring Kirsten Dunst as a photojournalist who traverses a violently divided United States, has grossed $45.7 million in North America and $20 million internationally. Global ticket sales stand at $67.3 million through Monday, and it’s projected to cross $70 million on Tuesday.
“Civil War” is the first A24 movie to top the domestic box office, and it’s impressively remained the No. 1 film for two consecutive weekends. Given the fiercely U.S.-centric subject matter, it wasn’t clear the film would resonate at the international box office. But “Civil War” has managed to appeal to overseas audiences with the biggest turnout in the United Kingdom, where it has grossed $4.8 million, followed by the Netherlands, where it has grossed $750,000. Over the weekend, the film opened in first place in several smaller moviegoing markets,...
- 4/23/2024
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety - Film News
Elon Musk’s X platform is continuing its video push, launching a dedicated app for smart TV sets.
The X video app launched Tuesday, with the company touting a handful of key features, including a trending video algorithm, artificial intelligence-powered trending topics and cross-device compatibility, so users can start watching on their phone and continue watching on TV.
The X TV app will not have any ads at launch, according to a note sent to the company’s corporate partners Tuesday.
“We’re focusing on launching this new feature for consumers first, but we do plan to monetize it, and will discuss different forms of partnerships — and that may include ads,” the note said.
The company also posted a preview video of the video experience, providing a brief glimpse of the TV app. The videos included in the preview video included Tucker Carlson’s interview with Vladimir Putin and footage...
The X video app launched Tuesday, with the company touting a handful of key features, including a trending video algorithm, artificial intelligence-powered trending topics and cross-device compatibility, so users can start watching on their phone and continue watching on TV.
The X TV app will not have any ads at launch, according to a note sent to the company’s corporate partners Tuesday.
“We’re focusing on launching this new feature for consumers first, but we do plan to monetize it, and will discuss different forms of partnerships — and that may include ads,” the note said.
The company also posted a preview video of the video experience, providing a brief glimpse of the TV app. The videos included in the preview video included Tucker Carlson’s interview with Vladimir Putin and footage...
- 4/23/2024
- by Alex Weprin
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Nantucket Film Festival has set the lineup for its 2024 edition and will honor The Morning Show writer-producer Kerry Ehrin, Oscar-winning documentary filmmaker Roger Ross Williams and Girls5Eva showrunner Meredith Scardino.
The 29th edition of the festival will open with Josh Margolin’s June Squibb-starrer Thelma, close with Ian Bonhôte and Peter Ettedgui’s Christopher Reeve documentary Super/Man and Jeff Zimbalist’s documentary Skywalkers: A Love Story, about a daredevil couple who secretly filmed themselves climbing the world’s last super skyscraper. The festival will also continue its tradition of screening a Disney or Pixar film on its opening day, with a festival screening of Inside Out 2.
The festival also announced several honorees: Ehrin will receive the Excellence in Television Writing Award; Williams will receive the Career Achievement in Filmmaking Award and his latest feature Stamped From the Beginning, based on the book of the same name by Ibram X. Kendi,...
The 29th edition of the festival will open with Josh Margolin’s June Squibb-starrer Thelma, close with Ian Bonhôte and Peter Ettedgui’s Christopher Reeve documentary Super/Man and Jeff Zimbalist’s documentary Skywalkers: A Love Story, about a daredevil couple who secretly filmed themselves climbing the world’s last super skyscraper. The festival will also continue its tradition of screening a Disney or Pixar film on its opening day, with a festival screening of Inside Out 2.
The festival also announced several honorees: Ehrin will receive the Excellence in Television Writing Award; Williams will receive the Career Achievement in Filmmaking Award and his latest feature Stamped From the Beginning, based on the book of the same name by Ibram X. Kendi,...
- 4/23/2024
- by Hilary Lewis
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema has promoted Chaya Rosenthal to chief marketing officer.
She’s worked at the company since 2017 and previously served as VP of marketing. Rosenthal has 20 years of marketing experience, including stops at Fandango and its parent company NBCUniversal before joining Drafthouse.
“Alamo Drafthouse Cinema is a brand that is driven by differentiation, which requires having the guts to try new and innovative things, with the know-how and experience to scale it and drive deeper brand loyalty as a result,” said Alamo Drafthouse CEO Michael Kustermann. “Chaya is that 1 in 100 marketing leader that possesses that balance. She is courageous, creative and analytical at the same time.”
Alamo Drafthouse is known not just for its menu with craft beer and locally sourced food, but also themed events tied to new and beloved movies. Rosenthal helped to elevate some of those tailored in-theater experiences, like a “Barbie” “dress up and slumber...
She’s worked at the company since 2017 and previously served as VP of marketing. Rosenthal has 20 years of marketing experience, including stops at Fandango and its parent company NBCUniversal before joining Drafthouse.
“Alamo Drafthouse Cinema is a brand that is driven by differentiation, which requires having the guts to try new and innovative things, with the know-how and experience to scale it and drive deeper brand loyalty as a result,” said Alamo Drafthouse CEO Michael Kustermann. “Chaya is that 1 in 100 marketing leader that possesses that balance. She is courageous, creative and analytical at the same time.”
Alamo Drafthouse is known not just for its menu with craft beer and locally sourced food, but also themed events tied to new and beloved movies. Rosenthal helped to elevate some of those tailored in-theater experiences, like a “Barbie” “dress up and slumber...
- 4/23/2024
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety - Film News
David Rooney: We’re nearing the middle of one of the most contentious election years in America’s history, with bitter divisions making a mockery of the increasingly obsolete appellation, “United States.” People are Anxious as they weigh a presidential vote destined to fuel the rage of one side or the other, potentially inciting violence.
That climate would seem to make this the ideal time for Alex Garland’s Civil War, which set a house record for A24 with its $25.7 million opening weekend and held strong at No. 1 in its second weekend. You can’t argue with those numbers. But what’s more interesting is the debate the film has ignited as to whether its fuzzy politics are a cop-out.
In probably the most rah-rah American movie of recent years, 2022’s Top Gun: Maverick, the foreign enemy with a uranium enrichment plant that needs bombing was identified with vague allusions at best,...
That climate would seem to make this the ideal time for Alex Garland’s Civil War, which set a house record for A24 with its $25.7 million opening weekend and held strong at No. 1 in its second weekend. You can’t argue with those numbers. But what’s more interesting is the debate the film has ignited as to whether its fuzzy politics are a cop-out.
In probably the most rah-rah American movie of recent years, 2022’s Top Gun: Maverick, the foreign enemy with a uranium enrichment plant that needs bombing was identified with vague allusions at best,...
- 4/23/2024
- by David Rooney and Lovia Gyarkye
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
In 2020, director Hsin-Chien Huang won the NewImages Festival’s top prize for “Bodyless,” a dreamlike exploration of his own childhood growing up under Taiwanese martial law. That year’s jury was led by French music producer and composer Jean-Michel Jarre – and sometime over the course of the festival the two men hit it off.
This year, the fast friends will return as creative partners and co-directors of “The Eye and I,” a visual and musical collaboration screening in NewImages’ competition and born of the festival’s wider goal to develop the immersive ecosystem in part by encouraging such outcomes.
“Our mission is to connect people,” says festival director Michele Ziegler. “We’re always looking to expand our circle and build our community – and we hope more and more people will join.”
Indeed, a bout of jury duty has proven to be a powerful motivator, as Jarre is hardly the first creative to make the leap.
This year, the fast friends will return as creative partners and co-directors of “The Eye and I,” a visual and musical collaboration screening in NewImages’ competition and born of the festival’s wider goal to develop the immersive ecosystem in part by encouraging such outcomes.
“Our mission is to connect people,” says festival director Michele Ziegler. “We’re always looking to expand our circle and build our community – and we hope more and more people will join.”
Indeed, a bout of jury duty has proven to be a powerful motivator, as Jarre is hardly the first creative to make the leap.
- 4/23/2024
- by Ben Croll
- Variety - Film News
Running April 24 – 28 at Paris’ Forum des Images, this year’s NewImages Festival will focus on bridge building, looking to foster connection and bolster partnerships between new media creators and legacy institutions.
“We really want to bring the Xr industry closer to the cultural sector of museums and theaters, really anything that could be a future showcase for immersive works,” festival director Michele Ziegler tells Variety. “While a few distributors now specialize in this, there is still much work to do convincing cultural decision makers to invest in new media. We have much to mediate and explore.”
To that end, Ziegler and her team took a dual track, curating a 15-project competition with an eye toward audience accessibility and a seven-title out-of-competition showcase united around a shared theme of cultural transmission.
Spanning five continents, eight countries and a wealth of immersive approaches, many competition titles traverse memories and dreamscapes, accenting historical...
“We really want to bring the Xr industry closer to the cultural sector of museums and theaters, really anything that could be a future showcase for immersive works,” festival director Michele Ziegler tells Variety. “While a few distributors now specialize in this, there is still much work to do convincing cultural decision makers to invest in new media. We have much to mediate and explore.”
To that end, Ziegler and her team took a dual track, curating a 15-project competition with an eye toward audience accessibility and a seven-title out-of-competition showcase united around a shared theme of cultural transmission.
Spanning five continents, eight countries and a wealth of immersive approaches, many competition titles traverse memories and dreamscapes, accenting historical...
- 4/23/2024
- by Ben Croll
- Variety - Film News
Saudi director and producer Osama Alkhurayji’s debut feature film “Siwar” recently wrapped principal photography in AlUla, the swathe of northwest Saudi Arabia comprising ancient artifacts, a lush oasis and sandstone canyons that’s becoming a burgeoning local film production hub.
“Siwar” involves two families – one Turkish, the other Saudi – whose fates become entangled due to a revelation about their newborns. In the film, AlUla stands in for Najran, the city in southwestern Saudi Arabia near the Yemen border. The drama delves into the dynamics of how the lives of Yaner, a Turkish father played by Serkan Genç (“The Game-Hiyleger Axmaqlar”), and Hamad, a Saudi father played by Fhaid Bin Mohammed, intersect after their sons are swapped at birth.
“Siwar” is the latest Saudi film to shoot in AlUla, following Netflix drama “The Matchmaker” and Saudi auteur Tawfik Alzaidi’s debut feature “Norah” that – after premiering locally in December at...
“Siwar” involves two families – one Turkish, the other Saudi – whose fates become entangled due to a revelation about their newborns. In the film, AlUla stands in for Najran, the city in southwestern Saudi Arabia near the Yemen border. The drama delves into the dynamics of how the lives of Yaner, a Turkish father played by Serkan Genç (“The Game-Hiyleger Axmaqlar”), and Hamad, a Saudi father played by Fhaid Bin Mohammed, intersect after their sons are swapped at birth.
“Siwar” is the latest Saudi film to shoot in AlUla, following Netflix drama “The Matchmaker” and Saudi auteur Tawfik Alzaidi’s debut feature “Norah” that – after premiering locally in December at...
- 4/23/2024
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety - Film News
“East Bay,” a dark comedy film starring “Fresh Off the Boat” and “Crazy Rich Asians” star Constance Wu, has been picked up for North American distribution and world sales by Level 33 Entertainment.
The film won the audience award last year at the Cinequest Film and Creativity festival in San Jose. Level 33 plans to release it next month in North American theaters, ahead of a later digital outing.
Wu portrays a close friend of a man who feels let down by his immigrant parents and, after a string of personal and professional humiliations, is forced to accept that he is a failure. His friends, an arts administrator, a guru and computer programmers, each have issues of their own and struggle with pressure to be happy and successful. As the man tries to get back on track, he has hallucinations that make him question reality.
“East Bay” is written directed and produced by Daniel Yoon,...
The film won the audience award last year at the Cinequest Film and Creativity festival in San Jose. Level 33 plans to release it next month in North American theaters, ahead of a later digital outing.
Wu portrays a close friend of a man who feels let down by his immigrant parents and, after a string of personal and professional humiliations, is forced to accept that he is a failure. His friends, an arts administrator, a guru and computer programmers, each have issues of their own and struggle with pressure to be happy and successful. As the man tries to get back on track, he has hallucinations that make him question reality.
“East Bay” is written directed and produced by Daniel Yoon,...
- 4/23/2024
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety - Film News
Shameik Moore and Paris Jackson have grabbed lead roles in the drama One Spoon of Chocolate, which has started production in Atlanta.
Rapper and filmmaker Robert Fitzgerald Diggs, also known RZA, is directing from his own screenplay. The feature follows an ex-military convict leaving the city for a small town where he ends up finding love, danger and more trouble than he can handle, according to a synopsis from the producers.
RZA made his directorial debut with 2012’s The Man With the Iron Fists, in which he starred as the title character and penned the script alongside producer Eli Roth. His directorial follow-up, the Lionsgate rap and poetry drama Love Beats Rhymes, starred Azealia Banks, Common, Jill Scott and Lorraine Toussaint.
RZA’s acting credits include Paul Walker’s final film Brick Mansions, Fox’s Gang Related (as a series regular) and Ridley Scott’s American Gangster, for which he...
Rapper and filmmaker Robert Fitzgerald Diggs, also known RZA, is directing from his own screenplay. The feature follows an ex-military convict leaving the city for a small town where he ends up finding love, danger and more trouble than he can handle, according to a synopsis from the producers.
RZA made his directorial debut with 2012’s The Man With the Iron Fists, in which he starred as the title character and penned the script alongside producer Eli Roth. His directorial follow-up, the Lionsgate rap and poetry drama Love Beats Rhymes, starred Azealia Banks, Common, Jill Scott and Lorraine Toussaint.
RZA’s acting credits include Paul Walker’s final film Brick Mansions, Fox’s Gang Related (as a series regular) and Ridley Scott’s American Gangster, for which he...
- 4/23/2024
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Paris- and Berlin-based sales house Salaud Morisset has picked up international sales duties on Palestinian-Danish director Mahdi Fleifel’s “To a Land Unknown,” which is set to world premiere next month in Directors’ Fortnight at Cannes. The exclusive first-look image was released Tuesday.
Eurozoom just signed on to release the film in French theaters.
“To a Land Unknown” tells the story of the desperate attempts of two Palestinian cousins stranded in Athens to find a way to reach Germany. Chatila and Reda are saving to pay for fake passports to get out of Athens. When Reda loses their hard-earned cash to his drug addiction, Chatila hatches an extreme plan, which involves them posing as smugglers and taking hostages in an effort to get him and his best friend out of their hopeless environment before it is too late.
Fleifel said, “It’s especially moving to me, in these incredible times,...
Eurozoom just signed on to release the film in French theaters.
“To a Land Unknown” tells the story of the desperate attempts of two Palestinian cousins stranded in Athens to find a way to reach Germany. Chatila and Reda are saving to pay for fake passports to get out of Athens. When Reda loses their hard-earned cash to his drug addiction, Chatila hatches an extreme plan, which involves them posing as smugglers and taking hostages in an effort to get him and his best friend out of their hopeless environment before it is too late.
Fleifel said, “It’s especially moving to me, in these incredible times,...
- 4/23/2024
- by Leo Barraclough
- Variety - Film News
Paramount Global is planning a suite of streaming channel for South Park fans to launch on the ad-based service Pluto TV in international markets.
The series, from creators Matt Stone and Trey Parker, has aired 26 seasons on Comedy Central and spawned a 1999 theatrical feature, South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut. Now Pluto TV is doubling down on the South Park brand by creating a dedicated main channel across all international markets where the AVOD streaming platform is active.
Studio execs note the expansion of the South Park Universe on Pluto TV outside of the U.S. does not represent new content, as it will instead make the existing animated series more widely available on the ad-based streaming platform.
The studio also plans a series of monthly South Park-themed channels across Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Canada, Italy, Spain, Brazil, Latin America and Australia. As the South Park series expands on Pluto TV,...
The series, from creators Matt Stone and Trey Parker, has aired 26 seasons on Comedy Central and spawned a 1999 theatrical feature, South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut. Now Pluto TV is doubling down on the South Park brand by creating a dedicated main channel across all international markets where the AVOD streaming platform is active.
Studio execs note the expansion of the South Park Universe on Pluto TV outside of the U.S. does not represent new content, as it will instead make the existing animated series more widely available on the ad-based streaming platform.
The studio also plans a series of monthly South Park-themed channels across Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Canada, Italy, Spain, Brazil, Latin America and Australia. As the South Park series expands on Pluto TV,...
- 4/23/2024
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Park Life
Paramount’s Pluto TV is to launch a “South Park” category, dedicated to the long-running satirical cartoon series, within its free ad-supported streaming television service.
The “South Park” category will include a “South Park” main channel, available across all international markets where Pluto TV is present, as well as a series of “South Park” themed channels in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Canada, Italy, Spain, Brazil, Latin America and Australia. This will feature a selection of “South Park” episodes dedicated to the theme of the month. These markets will also carry a series of channels, individually...
Paramount’s Pluto TV is to launch a “South Park” category, dedicated to the long-running satirical cartoon series, within its free ad-supported streaming television service.
The “South Park” category will include a “South Park” main channel, available across all international markets where Pluto TV is present, as well as a series of “South Park” themed channels in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Canada, Italy, Spain, Brazil, Latin America and Australia. This will feature a selection of “South Park” episodes dedicated to the theme of the month. These markets will also carry a series of channels, individually...
- 4/23/2024
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety - TV News
Range Media has raised fresh cash in what it is calling a “growth capital” round meant to expand its business both domestically and abroad.
The management and production firm, founded in 2020 by former CAA agent Peter Micelli and other former agents, says that it has completed an investment round with media mogul John Malone’s Liberty Global, Tpg founder David Bonderman’s Wildcat Capital, and the family entertainment company Playground Productions.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed, though a source said that it was a “substantial” minority investment. Liberty, Wildcat and Playground join Steve Cohen’s Point72 Ventures and A+E Networks as investors in Range.
A+E Networks invested in Range in 2022, in connection with a production deal.
Since its founding Range has expanded into other areas, including music, sports, and gaming. The company also merged with the production company Automatik.
The company says it will use the cash...
The management and production firm, founded in 2020 by former CAA agent Peter Micelli and other former agents, says that it has completed an investment round with media mogul John Malone’s Liberty Global, Tpg founder David Bonderman’s Wildcat Capital, and the family entertainment company Playground Productions.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed, though a source said that it was a “substantial” minority investment. Liberty, Wildcat and Playground join Steve Cohen’s Point72 Ventures and A+E Networks as investors in Range.
A+E Networks invested in Range in 2022, in connection with a production deal.
Since its founding Range has expanded into other areas, including music, sports, and gaming. The company also merged with the production company Automatik.
The company says it will use the cash...
- 4/23/2024
- by Alex Weprin
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Audio streaming giant Spotify has reached 239 million paying premium subscribers for the first quarter of 2024, up from 236 million at the fourth quarter of 2023, which met analyst expectations.
Stockholm-headquartered Spotify, led by CEO Daniel Ek, also reported that it hit 615 million monthly active users (MAUs) as of the end of the first quarter to March 31, 2024, up 19 percent from 602 million at the end of the fourth quarter of 2023. That missed on a Wall Street forecast for 617.9 million MAUs for Q1.
In the earnings call, CEO Daniel Ek attributed the Mau slowdown to the comparison to record numbers achieved during 2023, company layoffs in December, which disrupted operations “more than anticipated,” and lower marketing spend, which the company plans to increase going into the second quarter.
In the second quarter, the company is forecasting 631 million monthly active users, an increase of 16 million from the first quarter and 245 million premium subscribers, an increase of six million.
Stockholm-headquartered Spotify, led by CEO Daniel Ek, also reported that it hit 615 million monthly active users (MAUs) as of the end of the first quarter to March 31, 2024, up 19 percent from 602 million at the end of the fourth quarter of 2023. That missed on a Wall Street forecast for 617.9 million MAUs for Q1.
In the earnings call, CEO Daniel Ek attributed the Mau slowdown to the comparison to record numbers achieved during 2023, company layoffs in December, which disrupted operations “more than anticipated,” and lower marketing spend, which the company plans to increase going into the second quarter.
In the second quarter, the company is forecasting 631 million monthly active users, an increase of 16 million from the first quarter and 245 million premium subscribers, an increase of six million.
- 4/23/2024
- by Etan Vlessing and Caitlin Huston
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Cannes Film Festival has unveiled the inaugural lineup for its Immersive Competition section, the first-ever selection of augmented and virtual reality works to screen at the austere French film fest.
The 8 competition titles and 6 out-of-competition screenings include works featuring such talents as Jessica Chastain, Colin Farrell, Millie Bobby Brown, and Tahar Rahim. The lineup highlights cutting-edge VR and Ar techniques and includes location-based virtual reality, mixed reality experiences, projection mapping, and holographic works.
Introducing the new immersive section, Cannes said it hoped to “spotlight the next generation of international artists who are redefining storytelling and inventing new narrative-driven experiences that move beyond the traditional two-dimensional cinema screen.” The section is being organized with support from the French national film board, the Cnc. The immersive works will be presented at an exhibition space in the Cannes Cineum complex on the outskirts of the city and at the campus of Cannes’s Georges Méliès film school.
The 8 competition titles and 6 out-of-competition screenings include works featuring such talents as Jessica Chastain, Colin Farrell, Millie Bobby Brown, and Tahar Rahim. The lineup highlights cutting-edge VR and Ar techniques and includes location-based virtual reality, mixed reality experiences, projection mapping, and holographic works.
Introducing the new immersive section, Cannes said it hoped to “spotlight the next generation of international artists who are redefining storytelling and inventing new narrative-driven experiences that move beyond the traditional two-dimensional cinema screen.” The section is being organized with support from the French national film board, the Cnc. The immersive works will be presented at an exhibition space in the Cannes Cineum complex on the outskirts of the city and at the campus of Cannes’s Georges Méliès film school.
- 4/23/2024
- by Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Cannes Film Festival has announced the selections for its Immersive lineup, including projects voiced by stars like Cate Blanchett, Colin Farrell and Jessica Chastain.
According to a press release, the Immersive competition includes “collective location-based virtual reality and mixed reality experiences, and projection mapping and holographic works. These carefully selected immersive works showcase the cutting edge of this new era in storytelling, challenging convention, embracing new technologies, and above all celebrating new artists as well as old.”
The eight projects in competition include the French premiere of “Evolver,” voiced by Blanchett, and the European premiere of “Maya: The Birth of a Superhero,” which counts “Bridgerton” star Charithra Chandran among its voice cast.
The out-of-competition lineup comprises six projects, including “Emperor” with “House of the Dragon” star Olivia Cooke; “Gloomy Eyes,” the English version of which is voiced by Farrell; and Eliza McNitt’s “Spheres” with Chastain, Millie Bobby Brown and Patti Smith.
According to a press release, the Immersive competition includes “collective location-based virtual reality and mixed reality experiences, and projection mapping and holographic works. These carefully selected immersive works showcase the cutting edge of this new era in storytelling, challenging convention, embracing new technologies, and above all celebrating new artists as well as old.”
The eight projects in competition include the French premiere of “Evolver,” voiced by Blanchett, and the European premiere of “Maya: The Birth of a Superhero,” which counts “Bridgerton” star Charithra Chandran among its voice cast.
The out-of-competition lineup comprises six projects, including “Emperor” with “House of the Dragon” star Olivia Cooke; “Gloomy Eyes,” the English version of which is voiced by Farrell; and Eliza McNitt’s “Spheres” with Chastain, Millie Bobby Brown and Patti Smith.
- 4/23/2024
- by Ellise Shafer
- Variety - Film News
Leading French production-distribution outfit Le Pacte has boarded the upcoming 2D animated feature project “Conference of the Birds,” which will be spotlighted at the Marché du Film’s Animation Day during this year’s Cannes Festival.
In addition to co-producing, Le Pacte will handle French distribution and serve as international sales agent on the film, part of the five-title Annecy Showcase at the Animation Day. Confirmed voice cast members include Golshifteh Farahani and Louis Garrel.
“Conference of the Birds” is an updated adaptation of Farid al-Din Attar’s 900-year-old Persian poem of the same name. The film centers on a flock of birds who are the sole survivors of a man-made natural disaster. Leading the avian gang is Hod-Hod, a young adventurous hoopoe who sets off on a quest to meet the legendary bird Simorgh, rumored to hold the key to solving all the birds’ problems.
According to the filmmakers,...
In addition to co-producing, Le Pacte will handle French distribution and serve as international sales agent on the film, part of the five-title Annecy Showcase at the Animation Day. Confirmed voice cast members include Golshifteh Farahani and Louis Garrel.
“Conference of the Birds” is an updated adaptation of Farid al-Din Attar’s 900-year-old Persian poem of the same name. The film centers on a flock of birds who are the sole survivors of a man-made natural disaster. Leading the avian gang is Hod-Hod, a young adventurous hoopoe who sets off on a quest to meet the legendary bird Simorgh, rumored to hold the key to solving all the birds’ problems.
According to the filmmakers,...
- 4/23/2024
- by Jamie Lang
- Variety - Film News
Colombian producer Letrario and Spain’s Abano Producións have unveiled a new 2D animated feature co-production, “Mu-Ki-Ra,” which will be spotlighted at the 2024 Cannes’ Marché du Film Animation Day.
“Mu-Ki-Ra” was created by Colombian actress and screenwriter Estefanía Piñeres Duque, who co-wrote the screenplay with María Barro Guntín and is directing.
Part of the Annecy Animation Showcase at Cannes Animation Day, the film has some strong production power backing it. Galicia’s Abano Producións recently produced Spanish auteur Alberto Vázquez’s feature “Unicorn Wars,” and Letrario has an impressive catalog of live-action and animated works, including Piñeres’ 2020 short film “Color-ido,” which was an official selection at Pixelatl, AniMaze, and Rotterdam.
Several of the film’s Spanish-language voice cast roles have been filled by actors Maria Fernanda Marín, Isa Mosquera, Carmenza Gómez, and Witsey Mena.
“Mu-Ki-Ra” takes place in a land haunted by monsters made of vegetation. There, Cleo, a thirteen-year-old girl,...
“Mu-Ki-Ra” was created by Colombian actress and screenwriter Estefanía Piñeres Duque, who co-wrote the screenplay with María Barro Guntín and is directing.
Part of the Annecy Animation Showcase at Cannes Animation Day, the film has some strong production power backing it. Galicia’s Abano Producións recently produced Spanish auteur Alberto Vázquez’s feature “Unicorn Wars,” and Letrario has an impressive catalog of live-action and animated works, including Piñeres’ 2020 short film “Color-ido,” which was an official selection at Pixelatl, AniMaze, and Rotterdam.
Several of the film’s Spanish-language voice cast roles have been filled by actors Maria Fernanda Marín, Isa Mosquera, Carmenza Gómez, and Witsey Mena.
“Mu-Ki-Ra” takes place in a land haunted by monsters made of vegetation. There, Cleo, a thirteen-year-old girl,...
- 4/23/2024
- by Jamie Lang
- Variety - Film News
Two of France’s fastest-rising young stars, Lyna Khoudri and Rio Vega, will lead the French voice cast of animated feature “In Waves,” an unconditional first love story, and tale of loss and memories adapting American illustrator Aj Dungo’s same-titled multi-prized graphic novel.
An anticipated banner prestige animation title from Paris-based Silex Films, “In Waves’” lead producer which has Agathe Riedinger’s “Wild Diamond” in main competition at Cannes, the feature also marks the first animated co-production of both Anonymous Content and Charades, behind sales of Jeremy Clapin’s “I Lost My Body” and Mamoru Hosoda’s “Mirai,” both Oscar nominated titles.
In Waves is directed by Phuong Mai Nguyen, a former student of French animation schools Gobelins and La Poudrière who helmed episodes of the Silex-produced animated series “Brazen” and was Oscar-shortlisted for her short “My Home,” “In Waves” has just been announced as one of five titles at the Annecy Animation Showcase,...
An anticipated banner prestige animation title from Paris-based Silex Films, “In Waves’” lead producer which has Agathe Riedinger’s “Wild Diamond” in main competition at Cannes, the feature also marks the first animated co-production of both Anonymous Content and Charades, behind sales of Jeremy Clapin’s “I Lost My Body” and Mamoru Hosoda’s “Mirai,” both Oscar nominated titles.
In Waves is directed by Phuong Mai Nguyen, a former student of French animation schools Gobelins and La Poudrière who helmed episodes of the Silex-produced animated series “Brazen” and was Oscar-shortlisted for her short “My Home,” “In Waves” has just been announced as one of five titles at the Annecy Animation Showcase,...
- 4/23/2024
- by John Hopewell
- Variety - Film News
Anime artist Yoshitoshi Shinomiya cut his teeth working on films by superstar Japanese filmmaker Makoto Shinkai, including the director’s box office smash hit “Your Name.” Now, Shinomiya is prepping his feature directorial debut, “A New Dawn,” a profoundly personal film inspired by the changing Japanese landscape after the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011.
Tokyo-based Asmik Ace and France’s Miyu Productions are producing the feature, which the former will distribute globally.
“A New Dawn” unwinds inside an inactive fireworks factory that is about to go into administrative action. For the past four years, young Keitaro has lived inside the derelict structure, chasing the illusion of a father who vanished years before. The location used to be nestled in a lush forest, but the surrounding area has recently been redeveloped by the city, which covered the land with solar panels. Only a scant bit of greenery around the factory remains amongst the sea of panels.
Tokyo-based Asmik Ace and France’s Miyu Productions are producing the feature, which the former will distribute globally.
“A New Dawn” unwinds inside an inactive fireworks factory that is about to go into administrative action. For the past four years, young Keitaro has lived inside the derelict structure, chasing the illusion of a father who vanished years before. The location used to be nestled in a lush forest, but the surrounding area has recently been redeveloped by the city, which covered the land with solar panels. Only a scant bit of greenery around the factory remains amongst the sea of panels.
- 4/23/2024
- by Jamie Lang
- Variety - Film News
It’s been less than 12 years since Dan Stevens raised a middle finger to the British aristocracy, quitting “Downton Abbey” as the show neared its Emmy-amassing zenith and setting sail for America with his family. As he admits, he had “absolutely no idea” what was going to happen to him.
“There was no roadmap,” the 41-year-old actor explains with frank honestly about a decision that, at the time, was considered by many to be sheer lunacy. “I left ‘Downton’ with a blank slate. It was just, ‘I think I want to do other things.’ But I didn’t know what that looked like.”
To have an idea of what that currently looks like, anyone need just head to their nearest cinema, where Stevens is going head-to-head against himself in two of the biggest studio releases of the season. In what has become something of a calling card for the Brit...
“There was no roadmap,” the 41-year-old actor explains with frank honestly about a decision that, at the time, was considered by many to be sheer lunacy. “I left ‘Downton’ with a blank slate. It was just, ‘I think I want to do other things.’ But I didn’t know what that looked like.”
To have an idea of what that currently looks like, anyone need just head to their nearest cinema, where Stevens is going head-to-head against himself in two of the biggest studio releases of the season. In what has become something of a calling card for the Brit...
- 4/23/2024
- by Alex Ritman
- Variety - Film News
“A New Dawn,” the feature debut of Yoshitoshi Shinomiya, an animator on Makoto Shinkai’s blockbuster “Your Name,” is one draw in a five-title Annecy Animation Showcase which involves producers of real impact on the global independent animation scene.
The showcase will unveil a second brand-new animation project, “Mu-Ki-Ra,” co-produced by “Unicorn Wars” backer Abano Producións. The Showcase also features two key French prestige animation titles: “Conference of the Birds,” now backed by Le Pacte, and “In Waves,” from Silex Films, Anonymous Content, and leading sales agency Charades. Rounding up the selection is the anticipated Mexican feature “The Language of Birds.”
The Annecy Festival has long been the most important date on the international animation calendar, unfolding on the picturesque shores of Lake Annecy in France each summer.
In 2016, Cannes’ Marché du Film started providing a spring sneak peek at a small collection of work-in-progress titles that would...
The showcase will unveil a second brand-new animation project, “Mu-Ki-Ra,” co-produced by “Unicorn Wars” backer Abano Producións. The Showcase also features two key French prestige animation titles: “Conference of the Birds,” now backed by Le Pacte, and “In Waves,” from Silex Films, Anonymous Content, and leading sales agency Charades. Rounding up the selection is the anticipated Mexican feature “The Language of Birds.”
The Annecy Festival has long been the most important date on the international animation calendar, unfolding on the picturesque shores of Lake Annecy in France each summer.
In 2016, Cannes’ Marché du Film started providing a spring sneak peek at a small collection of work-in-progress titles that would...
- 4/23/2024
- by Jamie Lang
- Variety - Film News
The Karlovy Vary Film Festival and Variety have teamed up to honor Francine Maisler, one of the world’s most respected casting directors, whose recent credits include “Dune: Part Two,” “The Bikeriders,” “Challengers,” “Civil War” and “Joker: Folie à Deux.”
Maisler has worked on more than 70 feature films and is a recipient of 15 Artios Awards from the Casting Society of America, including for “Marriage Story” in 2020 and “Don’t Look Up” in 2021. As well as working with director Denis Villeneuve on “Dune: Part Two,” “Dune,” “Arrival” and “Sicario,” her other films include Terrence Malick’s “Tree of Life” and “Knight of Cups,” and Alejandro González Iñárritu’s “The Revenant” and “Birdman.” In 2022, she won a Primetime Emmy Award for her work on HBO’s “Succession.”
As part of its homage, Karlovy Vary will hold a special screening of one of the films which Maisler worked on. Maisler will also give a public master class,...
Maisler has worked on more than 70 feature films and is a recipient of 15 Artios Awards from the Casting Society of America, including for “Marriage Story” in 2020 and “Don’t Look Up” in 2021. As well as working with director Denis Villeneuve on “Dune: Part Two,” “Dune,” “Arrival” and “Sicario,” her other films include Terrence Malick’s “Tree of Life” and “Knight of Cups,” and Alejandro González Iñárritu’s “The Revenant” and “Birdman.” In 2022, she won a Primetime Emmy Award for her work on HBO’s “Succession.”
As part of its homage, Karlovy Vary will hold a special screening of one of the films which Maisler worked on. Maisler will also give a public master class,...
- 4/23/2024
- by Leo Barraclough
- Variety - Film News
The Karlovy Vary Festival will pay tribute to one of the Czech Republic’s most famous sons with a retrospective of film adaptations of the work of Franz Kafka from some of the greatest names in cinema. To mark the centenary of Kafka’s death, the festival will screen a series of films directly adapted from, or inspired by, the literary master of angst.
The retrospective will include such classics as Orson Welles’s The Trial (1962), Martin Scorsese’s Kafkaesque New York dramedy After Hours (1985) and Federico Fellini’s Intervista; Steven Soderbergh’s Kafka (1991) and its 2021 re-edit Mr. Kneff — both starring Jeremy Irons as a set-upon insurance man and writer — alongside lesser-known adaptations, including Jan Němec’s Metamorphosis, a German TV movie version of Kafka’s famous short story. Other highlights include Ousmane Sembene’s Senegalese feature The Money Order (1968) and Kôji Yamamura’s animated short Franz Kafka’s a Country Doctor (2007).
“For decades,...
The retrospective will include such classics as Orson Welles’s The Trial (1962), Martin Scorsese’s Kafkaesque New York dramedy After Hours (1985) and Federico Fellini’s Intervista; Steven Soderbergh’s Kafka (1991) and its 2021 re-edit Mr. Kneff — both starring Jeremy Irons as a set-upon insurance man and writer — alongside lesser-known adaptations, including Jan Němec’s Metamorphosis, a German TV movie version of Kafka’s famous short story. Other highlights include Ousmane Sembene’s Senegalese feature The Money Order (1968) and Kôji Yamamura’s animated short Franz Kafka’s a Country Doctor (2007).
“For decades,...
- 4/23/2024
- by Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
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