Disney+ has unveiled the trailer for “Chang Can Dunk” from filmmaker Jingyi Shao, one of Variety’s “10 Directors to Watch” for 2023.
The coming-of-age sports film — which begins streaming March 10 — follows Chang (Bloom Li), an unpopular high schooler who loves basketball and Pokémon. Chang finds himself wagering a bet with the school’s all-star player, Matt (Chase Liefeld), that he will be able to make a slam dunk — in 12 weeks time.
The film also stars Zoe Renee, Ben Wang, Dexter Darden, Anthony Lopez, Nile Bullock, Mardy Ma and Angel Oquendo.
“I was really inspired by early ’90s coming-of-age films, but specifically sports-coming-of-age films like ‘Mighty Ducks,’” Shao tells Variety of his feature directorial debut.
The film examines teenage social hierarchies and family dynamics from the perspective of people of color living in communities where they’re a minority population.
“In a town where there aren’t a lot of other Asian American families,...
The coming-of-age sports film — which begins streaming March 10 — follows Chang (Bloom Li), an unpopular high schooler who loves basketball and Pokémon. Chang finds himself wagering a bet with the school’s all-star player, Matt (Chase Liefeld), that he will be able to make a slam dunk — in 12 weeks time.
The film also stars Zoe Renee, Ben Wang, Dexter Darden, Anthony Lopez, Nile Bullock, Mardy Ma and Angel Oquendo.
“I was really inspired by early ’90s coming-of-age films, but specifically sports-coming-of-age films like ‘Mighty Ducks,’” Shao tells Variety of his feature directorial debut.
The film examines teenage social hierarchies and family dynamics from the perspective of people of color living in communities where they’re a minority population.
“In a town where there aren’t a lot of other Asian American families,...
- 2/21/2023
- by Charna Flam
- Variety Film + TV
Netflix has laid off an additional 300 employees.
The news Thursday comes after Deadline revealed in May that redundancies were underway, with an initial 150 positions eliminated as a result of the slowdown in the company’s revenue growth.
“Today we sadly let go of around 300 employees,” a Netflix spokeswoman told Deadline. “While we continue to invest significantly in the business, we made these adjustments so that our costs are growing in line with our slower revenue growth. We are so grateful for everything they have done for Netflix and are working hard to support them through this difficult transition.”
We’re hearing that the cuts are impacting a number of different teams, mostly in the U.S. but also including Asia Pacific, Europe, Middle East and Africa and Latin America including the company’s legal and product divisions.
Netflix has a global workforce of around 11,000.
The latest layoffs come after Netflix...
The news Thursday comes after Deadline revealed in May that redundancies were underway, with an initial 150 positions eliminated as a result of the slowdown in the company’s revenue growth.
“Today we sadly let go of around 300 employees,” a Netflix spokeswoman told Deadline. “While we continue to invest significantly in the business, we made these adjustments so that our costs are growing in line with our slower revenue growth. We are so grateful for everything they have done for Netflix and are working hard to support them through this difficult transition.”
We’re hearing that the cuts are impacting a number of different teams, mostly in the U.S. but also including Asia Pacific, Europe, Middle East and Africa and Latin America including the company’s legal and product divisions.
Netflix has a global workforce of around 11,000.
The latest layoffs come after Netflix...
- 6/23/2022
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Layoffs are underway at Netflix today. About 150 positions out of the streamer’s workforce of 11,000 are being eliminated amid a slowdown in the company’s revenue growth.
They are largely based in the U.S., with a significant portion in creative, across both film and TV, sources said. A number of those laid off are in the executive ranks, including in original content, I hear, with a couple of director-level original series execs rumored to be leaving. There is also rampant rumor that the indie film division will suffer heavy casualties but sources internally say that is not the case.
“As we explained on earnings, our slowing revenue growth means we are also having to slow our cost growth as a company. So sadly, we are letting around 150 employees go today, mostly US-based,” a Netflix spokesperson said in a statement to Deadline. “These changes are primarily driven by business needs rather than individual performance,...
They are largely based in the U.S., with a significant portion in creative, across both film and TV, sources said. A number of those laid off are in the executive ranks, including in original content, I hear, with a couple of director-level original series execs rumored to be leaving. There is also rampant rumor that the indie film division will suffer heavy casualties but sources internally say that is not the case.
“As we explained on earnings, our slowing revenue growth means we are also having to slow our cost growth as a company. So sadly, we are letting around 150 employees go today, mostly US-based,” a Netflix spokesperson said in a statement to Deadline. “These changes are primarily driven by business needs rather than individual performance,...
- 5/17/2022
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Searchlight Pictures has set summer release dates for “Fire Island,” “Good Luck to You, Leo Grande” and “Not Okay.”
All three films will stream exclusively as Hulu Originals in the U.S., with “Fire Island” and “Not Okay” streaming internationally on Disney Plus as Star Originals.
First out of the gate is Andrew Ahn’s “Fire Island,” which will launch on June 3. Set and shot on location in the iconic Fire Island Pines, the movie is an unapologetic modern day rom-com inspired by Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice.” Written by and starring Joel Kim Booster, the story centers around two best friends who set out to have a legendary week-long summer vacation with the help of cheap rosé and a cadre of eclectic friends.
“Fire Island” features an epic ensemble with Bowen Yang, Margaret Cho, Conrad Ricamora, James Scully, Matt Rogers, Tomas Matos, Torian Miller, Nick Adams, Zane Phillips,...
All three films will stream exclusively as Hulu Originals in the U.S., with “Fire Island” and “Not Okay” streaming internationally on Disney Plus as Star Originals.
First out of the gate is Andrew Ahn’s “Fire Island,” which will launch on June 3. Set and shot on location in the iconic Fire Island Pines, the movie is an unapologetic modern day rom-com inspired by Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice.” Written by and starring Joel Kim Booster, the story centers around two best friends who set out to have a legendary week-long summer vacation with the help of cheap rosé and a cadre of eclectic friends.
“Fire Island” features an epic ensemble with Bowen Yang, Margaret Cho, Conrad Ricamora, James Scully, Matt Rogers, Tomas Matos, Torian Miller, Nick Adams, Zane Phillips,...
- 3/11/2022
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Chase Liefeld has joined the cast of Disney Studios’ high school basketball movie Chang Can Dunk which is intended for debut on Disney+.
The Yorba Linda, CA native will play Matt, the high school’s star basketball player, who becomes an obsession of 16-year old Chang, who we told you Bloom Li is set to play. Chang is a constantly marginalized, not-popular kid who wants to learn how to dunk so bad, he wants to best Matt at his game and win the adoration of Kristy.
Jingyi Shao is writing and directing the feature from Lena Waithe and Rishi Rajani’s Hillman Grad Productions. They’re producing with Brad Weston and Negin Salmasi.
Liefeld’s credits include the indie feature Honor Student from director Tamika Miller and the YouTube series Sunnyside Up. He is repped by Robert Stein Management and Gersh.
The Yorba Linda, CA native will play Matt, the high school’s star basketball player, who becomes an obsession of 16-year old Chang, who we told you Bloom Li is set to play. Chang is a constantly marginalized, not-popular kid who wants to learn how to dunk so bad, he wants to best Matt at his game and win the adoration of Kristy.
Jingyi Shao is writing and directing the feature from Lena Waithe and Rishi Rajani’s Hillman Grad Productions. They’re producing with Brad Weston and Negin Salmasi.
Liefeld’s credits include the indie feature Honor Student from director Tamika Miller and the YouTube series Sunnyside Up. He is repped by Robert Stein Management and Gersh.
- 9/29/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Bloom Li has landed the lead role in Disney Studios’ high school basketball feature Chang Can Dunk, which Jingyi Shao will direct and write.
In Chang Can Dunk, a 16-year old, constantly marginalized, not-popular high school kid and wannabe basketball player becomes obsessed with the idea of learning to dunk, all in an effort to best the school’s basketball star, Matt — and hopefully win the adoration of the very pretty Kristy.
Lena Waithe and Rishi Rajani are producing through their Hillman Grad Productions. Brad Weston and Negin Salmasi are also producing the movie, which is intended for Disney+.
Li has had a recurring role on Awesomeness TV’s My Dead Ex and appearances on CBS’ S.W.A.T. and Hulu’s Into the Dark. Some of the numerous short films in which Bloom appeared went on to play at the Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival, Palm Springs International ShortFest and South by Southwest.
In Chang Can Dunk, a 16-year old, constantly marginalized, not-popular high school kid and wannabe basketball player becomes obsessed with the idea of learning to dunk, all in an effort to best the school’s basketball star, Matt — and hopefully win the adoration of the very pretty Kristy.
Lena Waithe and Rishi Rajani are producing through their Hillman Grad Productions. Brad Weston and Negin Salmasi are also producing the movie, which is intended for Disney+.
Li has had a recurring role on Awesomeness TV’s My Dead Ex and appearances on CBS’ S.W.A.T. and Hulu’s Into the Dark. Some of the numerous short films in which Bloom appeared went on to play at the Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival, Palm Springs International ShortFest and South by Southwest.
- 9/22/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Dylan O’Brien has been snapped up to star in the upcoming satirical comedy ‘Not Okay.’
O’Brien joins Zoey Deutch on the cast of the feature which follows a misguided young woman who fakes a trip to Paris to up her social media presence. A terrifying incident in the real world becomes part of her imaginary trip and soon her white lie becomes a moral quandary that offers her all the attention she has wanted.
Mia Isaac, Embeth Davidtz, Nadia Alexander, Tia Dionne Hodge, Negin Farsad, Karan Soni and newcomer Dash Perry will also star.
Quinn Shephard wrote and directs, Brad Weston and Negin Salmasi’s Makeready are producing the film, which will premiere exclusively on Hulu in the U.S., and globally on Disney+ Star. Caroline Jaczko (“Bad Education”) will produce alongside Makeready.
Also in news – Nicholas Hoult cast opposite Anya Taylor-Joy in ‘The Menu’
Filming has already commenced in New York.
O’Brien joins Zoey Deutch on the cast of the feature which follows a misguided young woman who fakes a trip to Paris to up her social media presence. A terrifying incident in the real world becomes part of her imaginary trip and soon her white lie becomes a moral quandary that offers her all the attention she has wanted.
Mia Isaac, Embeth Davidtz, Nadia Alexander, Tia Dionne Hodge, Negin Farsad, Karan Soni and newcomer Dash Perry will also star.
Quinn Shephard wrote and directs, Brad Weston and Negin Salmasi’s Makeready are producing the film, which will premiere exclusively on Hulu in the U.S., and globally on Disney+ Star. Caroline Jaczko (“Bad Education”) will produce alongside Makeready.
Also in news – Nicholas Hoult cast opposite Anya Taylor-Joy in ‘The Menu’
Filming has already commenced in New York.
- 8/3/2021
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Dylan O’Brien has joined the cast of the upcoming feature satire “Not Okay.”
Star of “The Maze Runner” and “Love and Monsters,” O’Brien joins previously-announced leading lady Zoey Deutch in the project from writer-director Quinn Shephard. Brad Weston and Negin Salmasi’s Makeready are producing the film, which will premiere exclusively on Disney’s Dtc platforms.
With shooting already underway in New York City, “Not Okay” follows a misguided young woman desperate for friends and fame, who fakes a trip to Paris to up her social media presence. When a terrifying incident takes place in the real world and becomes part of her imaginary trip, her white lie becomes a moral quandary that offers her all the attention she’s wanted.
Rounding out the ensemble cast is Mia Isaac (Amazon’s upcoming “Don’t Make Me Go” opposite John Cho), Embeth Davidtz (“Old”) and Nadia Alexander. Actors Tia Dionne Hodge...
Star of “The Maze Runner” and “Love and Monsters,” O’Brien joins previously-announced leading lady Zoey Deutch in the project from writer-director Quinn Shephard. Brad Weston and Negin Salmasi’s Makeready are producing the film, which will premiere exclusively on Disney’s Dtc platforms.
With shooting already underway in New York City, “Not Okay” follows a misguided young woman desperate for friends and fame, who fakes a trip to Paris to up her social media presence. When a terrifying incident takes place in the real world and becomes part of her imaginary trip, her white lie becomes a moral quandary that offers her all the attention she’s wanted.
Rounding out the ensemble cast is Mia Isaac (Amazon’s upcoming “Don’t Make Me Go” opposite John Cho), Embeth Davidtz (“Old”) and Nadia Alexander. Actors Tia Dionne Hodge...
- 8/2/2021
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Teyana Taylor is set to star in A.V. Rockwell’s feature debut A Thousand And One, from Sight Unseen, Hillman Grad Productions, Makeready. Production is underway in New York City.
The film follows Inez (Taylor), who kidnaps six-year-old Terry from the foster care system. Holding onto their secret and each other, mother and son set out to reclaim their home, as well as their identity and stability, in a rapidly changing New York City.
The film is produced by Sight Unseen’s Eddie Vaisman and Julia Lebedev, Hillman Grad Productions’ Lena Waithe and Rishi Rajani, and Makeready’s Brad Weston. Sight Unseen’s Oren Moverman and Rachel Jacobs and Makeready’s Negin Salmasi are executive producing. Focus Features will distribute the film in the U.S. and Universal Pictures International will distribute internationally.
Taylor was most recently seen in Amazon’s Coming 2 America in her scene stealing role as Bopoto.
The film follows Inez (Taylor), who kidnaps six-year-old Terry from the foster care system. Holding onto their secret and each other, mother and son set out to reclaim their home, as well as their identity and stability, in a rapidly changing New York City.
The film is produced by Sight Unseen’s Eddie Vaisman and Julia Lebedev, Hillman Grad Productions’ Lena Waithe and Rishi Rajani, and Makeready’s Brad Weston. Sight Unseen’s Oren Moverman and Rachel Jacobs and Makeready’s Negin Salmasi are executive producing. Focus Features will distribute the film in the U.S. and Universal Pictures International will distribute internationally.
Taylor was most recently seen in Amazon’s Coming 2 America in her scene stealing role as Bopoto.
- 7/28/2021
- by Justin Kroll
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Searchlight and Makeready are partnering on the new feature film satire Not Okay, setting Quinn Shephard to direct and tapping Zoey Deutch to star. Shephard also penned the script to the film which is set to start production this summer in New York. The film will be released exclusively on Hulu.
In the pic, a misguided young woman (Deutch), desperate for friends and fame, fakes a trip to Paris to up her social media presence. When a terrifying incident takes place in the real world and becomes part of her imaginary trip, her white lie becomes a moral quandary that offers her all the attention she’s wanted.
Makeready’s Brad Weston & Negin Salmasi will produce along with Bad Education producer Caroline Jaczko. Deutch will exec produce. Chan Phung, Miranda Hill and Apolline Berty will oversee for Searchlight.
Searchlight and Deutch’s partnership continues to grow as this marks...
In the pic, a misguided young woman (Deutch), desperate for friends and fame, fakes a trip to Paris to up her social media presence. When a terrifying incident takes place in the real world and becomes part of her imaginary trip, her white lie becomes a moral quandary that offers her all the attention she’s wanted.
Makeready’s Brad Weston & Negin Salmasi will produce along with Bad Education producer Caroline Jaczko. Deutch will exec produce. Chan Phung, Miranda Hill and Apolline Berty will oversee for Searchlight.
Searchlight and Deutch’s partnership continues to grow as this marks...
- 6/8/2021
- by Justin Kroll
- Deadline Film + TV
Leonardo DiCaprio and his production company Appian Way have won the rights to remake the Danish film ‘Another Round‘.
The remake would see DiCaprio in the leading role which, in the original, saw Mads Mikkelsen play the role of Martin. Together with three of his friends, all weary high school teachers, embark on a risky experiment to maintain a constant level of intoxication throughout the workday. Initial results are positive, but as the units are knocked back and stakes are raised, it becomes increasingly clear that some bold acts carry severe consequences.
The film will be produced by Appian Way’s DiCaprio and Davisson, and Brad Weston and Negin Salmasi for Makeready, and Endeavor Content. Appian Way’s Mike Hampton will shepherd the project. The search for a scribe is underway.
Also in news – 2021 Oscar Winners – Nomadland & Chloe Zhao win big
The original film won the Oscar for Best International Feature,...
The remake would see DiCaprio in the leading role which, in the original, saw Mads Mikkelsen play the role of Martin. Together with three of his friends, all weary high school teachers, embark on a risky experiment to maintain a constant level of intoxication throughout the workday. Initial results are positive, but as the units are knocked back and stakes are raised, it becomes increasingly clear that some bold acts carry severe consequences.
The film will be produced by Appian Way’s DiCaprio and Davisson, and Brad Weston and Negin Salmasi for Makeready, and Endeavor Content. Appian Way’s Mike Hampton will shepherd the project. The search for a scribe is underway.
Also in news – 2021 Oscar Winners – Nomadland & Chloe Zhao win big
The original film won the Oscar for Best International Feature,...
- 4/27/2021
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Original director Thomas Vinterberg to serve as executive producer.
Endeavor Content and Makeready are financing an English-language remake of Danish Oscar winner Another Round after partnering with Appian Way on a project that could see Leonardo DiCaprio star in the Mads Mikkelsen role.
DiCaprio and his Appian Way partner Jennifer Davisson will produce with Makeready head Brad Weston and Negin Salmasi, and Endeavor Content.
Vinterberg’s agents at ICM Partners orchestrated an auction over two weeks in the run-up to Sunday’s (April 25) 93rd Oscar ceremony.
Vinterberg will serve as executive producer on the remake along with Sisse Graum Jørgensen and Kasper Dissing.
Endeavor Content and Makeready are financing an English-language remake of Danish Oscar winner Another Round after partnering with Appian Way on a project that could see Leonardo DiCaprio star in the Mads Mikkelsen role.
DiCaprio and his Appian Way partner Jennifer Davisson will produce with Makeready head Brad Weston and Negin Salmasi, and Endeavor Content.
Vinterberg’s agents at ICM Partners orchestrated an auction over two weeks in the run-up to Sunday’s (April 25) 93rd Oscar ceremony.
Vinterberg will serve as executive producer on the remake along with Sisse Graum Jørgensen and Kasper Dissing.
- 4/26/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Endeavor Content and Makeready to fully finance the remake based on Thomas Vinterberg’s film
Leonardo DiCaprio’s Appian Way has acquired the remake rights to an English-language take on “Another Round,” Thomas Vinterberg’s film that on Sunday won the Oscar for Best International Feature.
The remake of the film is being fully financed by Endeavor Content and Makeready, and it’s being developed with DiCaprio set for the lead role.
DiCaprio and Jennifer Davisson won the rights to the remake in an auction. No writer, director or cast is attached yet.
Also Read:
‘Another Round’ Director Thomas Vinterberg Dedicates Oscar to Daughter Killed Days Into Production (Video)
DiCaprio and Davisson will produce for Appian Way alongside Brad Weston and Negin Salmasi for Makeready and Endeavor Content. Appian Way’s Mike Hampton will oversee. Vinterberg will also executive produce.
“Another Round” is a Danish film starring Mads Mikkelsen as...
Leonardo DiCaprio’s Appian Way has acquired the remake rights to an English-language take on “Another Round,” Thomas Vinterberg’s film that on Sunday won the Oscar for Best International Feature.
The remake of the film is being fully financed by Endeavor Content and Makeready, and it’s being developed with DiCaprio set for the lead role.
DiCaprio and Jennifer Davisson won the rights to the remake in an auction. No writer, director or cast is attached yet.
Also Read:
‘Another Round’ Director Thomas Vinterberg Dedicates Oscar to Daughter Killed Days Into Production (Video)
DiCaprio and Davisson will produce for Appian Way alongside Brad Weston and Negin Salmasi for Makeready and Endeavor Content. Appian Way’s Mike Hampton will oversee. Vinterberg will also executive produce.
“Another Round” is a Danish film starring Mads Mikkelsen as...
- 4/26/2021
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Exclusive: English-language remake rights to Thomas Vinterberg’s Best International Film Oscar winner Another Round have been acquired after an auction. The film will be developed as a potential star vehicle for Leonardo DiCaprio and was won in a bid by his and Jennifer Davisson’s Appian Way, Endeavor Content and Brad Weston’s Makeready. The film will be fully funded by Endeavor Content and Makeready.
This was a hotly sought after project, even before the film won Oscar in last night’s ceremony at Union Station. The difference maker here to Vinterberg was the chance to see DiCaprio in a new role, the vulnerable middle aged man in existential crisis played by Mads Mikkelsen.
The film will be produced by Appian Way’s DiCaprio and Davisson, and Brad Weston and Negin Salmasi for Makeready, and Endeavor Content. Appian Way’s Mike Hampton will shepherd the project. They will hire a writer quickly.
This was a hotly sought after project, even before the film won Oscar in last night’s ceremony at Union Station. The difference maker here to Vinterberg was the chance to see DiCaprio in a new role, the vulnerable middle aged man in existential crisis played by Mads Mikkelsen.
The film will be produced by Appian Way’s DiCaprio and Davisson, and Brad Weston and Negin Salmasi for Makeready, and Endeavor Content. Appian Way’s Mike Hampton will shepherd the project. They will hire a writer quickly.
- 4/26/2021
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Makeready will turn the fantasy tale The Gilded Ones into a film, and the producer/financier has set its author, Namina Forna, to write the script in the first of what will be a trilogy. The novel debuted this week in the U.S. through the Penguin Random House imprint Delacorte Press, this after bowing in the UK last week. The trilogy is called the Deathless book series and it shot to the top of Amazon’s fantasy lists. Makeready’s Brad Weston and Negin Salmasi are producing along with Lovecraft Country‘s Misha Green.
The Gilded Ones is an bold and immersive West African-inspired and empowering feminist fantasy story that follows sixteen-year-old Deka living in Otera, a deeply patriarchal ancient kingdom. There, a woman’s worth is tied to her purity, and she must bleed to prove it. But when Deka bleeds gold – the color of impurity, or...
The Gilded Ones is an bold and immersive West African-inspired and empowering feminist fantasy story that follows sixteen-year-old Deka living in Otera, a deeply patriarchal ancient kingdom. There, a woman’s worth is tied to her purity, and she must bleed to prove it. But when Deka bleeds gold – the color of impurity, or...
- 2/10/2021
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
A.V. Rockwell’s feature directorial debut, “A Thousand and One,” has been greenlit by Focus Features, Sight Unseen, Makeready and Hillman Grad Productions
Rockwell also penned the script for the pic, which begins production next year. It will be produced by Hillman Grad’s Lena Waithe and Rishi Rajani, Makeready’s Brad Weston, and Sight Unseen’s Eddie Vaisman and Julia Lebedev. Makeready’s Negin Salmasi, and Sight Unseen’s Oren Moverman and Rachel Jacobs are executive producing. Casting has yet to be announced. Focus Features will distribute the film in the U.S. and Universal Pictures International will distribute it internationally.
“A Thousand and One” centers on a free-spirited woman who tries to redeem herself by kidnapping her six-year-old from the foster care system. Holding onto their secret and each other, mother and son set out to reclaim their home, identity and stability in a rapidly changing New York City.
Rockwell also penned the script for the pic, which begins production next year. It will be produced by Hillman Grad’s Lena Waithe and Rishi Rajani, Makeready’s Brad Weston, and Sight Unseen’s Eddie Vaisman and Julia Lebedev. Makeready’s Negin Salmasi, and Sight Unseen’s Oren Moverman and Rachel Jacobs are executive producing. Casting has yet to be announced. Focus Features will distribute the film in the U.S. and Universal Pictures International will distribute it internationally.
“A Thousand and One” centers on a free-spirited woman who tries to redeem herself by kidnapping her six-year-old from the foster care system. Holding onto their secret and each other, mother and son set out to reclaim their home, identity and stability in a rapidly changing New York City.
- 12/2/2020
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
Lena Waithe will produce the directorial debut from A.V. Rockwell, a drama called “A Thousand And One” that will be produced equally by Focus Features, Sight Unseen, Makeready and Hillman Grad Productions.
Rockwell has received fellowships from Tribeca Film Institute, the Sundance Institute and the John S. Guggenheim Foundation, and she’s been named one of Filmmaker Magazine’s 25 New Faces of Independent Film.
Rockwell also wrote the script for “A Thousand And One,” which tells the story of a woman who kidnaps a 6-year-old boy from the foster care system. Casting has yet to be set, but production is expected to begin next year. Here’s the full synopsis:
Convinced that it is one last, necessary crime on the path to redemption, unapologetic and free-spirited Ines kidnaps six-year-old Terry from the foster care system. Holding onto their secret and each other, mother and son set out to reclaim their home,...
Rockwell has received fellowships from Tribeca Film Institute, the Sundance Institute and the John S. Guggenheim Foundation, and she’s been named one of Filmmaker Magazine’s 25 New Faces of Independent Film.
Rockwell also wrote the script for “A Thousand And One,” which tells the story of a woman who kidnaps a 6-year-old boy from the foster care system. Casting has yet to be set, but production is expected to begin next year. Here’s the full synopsis:
Convinced that it is one last, necessary crime on the path to redemption, unapologetic and free-spirited Ines kidnaps six-year-old Terry from the foster care system. Holding onto their secret and each other, mother and son set out to reclaim their home,...
- 12/2/2020
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Focus Features has teamed with Sight Unseen, Makeready and Hillman Grad Productions on the feature directorial debut of A.V. Rockwell, A Thousand and One.
The project, written by Rockwell, follows unapologetic and free-spirited Ines, who convinced that it is one last, necessary crime on the path to redemption, kidnaps six-year-old Terry from the foster care system. Holding onto their secret and each other, mother and son set out to reclaim their home, their identity, and stability in a rapidly changing New York City. Casting has yet to be set. Focus is releasing the movie stateside and via Universal abroad. Production is to begin next year.
The pic is produced by Hillman Grad’s Lena Waithe and Rishi Rajani, Makeready’s Brad Weston, and Sight Unseen’s Eddie Vaisman and Julia Lebedev. Makeready’s Negin Salmasi and Sight Unseen’s Oren Moverman and Rachel Jacobs are executive producing. Makeready and Hillman...
The project, written by Rockwell, follows unapologetic and free-spirited Ines, who convinced that it is one last, necessary crime on the path to redemption, kidnaps six-year-old Terry from the foster care system. Holding onto their secret and each other, mother and son set out to reclaim their home, their identity, and stability in a rapidly changing New York City. Casting has yet to be set. Focus is releasing the movie stateside and via Universal abroad. Production is to begin next year.
The pic is produced by Hillman Grad’s Lena Waithe and Rishi Rajani, Makeready’s Brad Weston, and Sight Unseen’s Eddie Vaisman and Julia Lebedev. Makeready’s Negin Salmasi and Sight Unseen’s Oren Moverman and Rachel Jacobs are executive producing. Makeready and Hillman...
- 12/2/2020
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Focus Features anticipates 2021 production star.t
Focus Features is partnering with Sight Unseen, Makeready, and Hillman Grad Productions on A Thousand And One, the feature directorial debut by Tribeca Film Institute, Sundance Institute, and John S. Guggenheim Foundation fellow A.V. Rockman.
Rockman wrote the screenplay about a woman who kidnaps her six-year-old son from the foster care system in a final, necessary crime to set her on the road to redemption and reclaim her home in New York.
Casting is underway and Focus Features anticipates a 2021 production start. Focus will distribute the film in the US and Universal Pictures International will handle international.
Focus Features is partnering with Sight Unseen, Makeready, and Hillman Grad Productions on A Thousand And One, the feature directorial debut by Tribeca Film Institute, Sundance Institute, and John S. Guggenheim Foundation fellow A.V. Rockman.
Rockman wrote the screenplay about a woman who kidnaps her six-year-old son from the foster care system in a final, necessary crime to set her on the road to redemption and reclaim her home in New York.
Casting is underway and Focus Features anticipates a 2021 production start. Focus will distribute the film in the US and Universal Pictures International will handle international.
- 12/2/2020
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Simon Gillis.
See-Saw Films has promoted Simon Gillis to the newly created position of chief operating officer of the company’s film division.
Based in London, Gillis will continue to report directly to joint managing directors Emile Sherman and Iain Canning. Having most recently served as See-Saw’s head of commercial affairs, Gillis will now oversee the film division’s day-to-day operations across its London, Sydney and La offices, including production finance and strategy, business development, legal and business affairs.
He will work with heads of production Nicky Earnshaw (UK), Libby Sharpe (Australia), and head of development, Katherine Bridle. See-Saw’s TV division will continue to be co-run by its COO, Hakan Kousetta and head of TV, Jamie Laurenson.
Gillis will be responsible for sourcing and structuring the financing, sales and distribution for See-Saw’s feature film slate, as well as exploring new lines of business. He will also...
See-Saw Films has promoted Simon Gillis to the newly created position of chief operating officer of the company’s film division.
Based in London, Gillis will continue to report directly to joint managing directors Emile Sherman and Iain Canning. Having most recently served as See-Saw’s head of commercial affairs, Gillis will now oversee the film division’s day-to-day operations across its London, Sydney and La offices, including production finance and strategy, business development, legal and business affairs.
He will work with heads of production Nicky Earnshaw (UK), Libby Sharpe (Australia), and head of development, Katherine Bridle. See-Saw’s TV division will continue to be co-run by its COO, Hakan Kousetta and head of TV, Jamie Laurenson.
Gillis will be responsible for sourcing and structuring the financing, sales and distribution for See-Saw’s feature film slate, as well as exploring new lines of business. He will also...
- 1/23/2019
- by jkeast
- IF.com.au
See-Saw Films’ Head of Commercial Affairs Simon Gillis has been promoted to the newly created position of Chief Operating Officer of the company’s film division, effective immediately.
Based in London, Gillis will continue to report directly to joint MDs Emile Sherman and Iain Canning and will oversee the film division’s day-to-day operations across its London, Sydney and La offices, including production finance and strategy, business development, legal and business affairs.
Gillis will continue to work closely with the film division’s Heads of Production, Nicky Earnshaw (UK), Libby Sharpe (Australia), and Head of Development, Katherine Bridle. See-Saw’s TV division will continue to be co-run by its COO, Hakan Kousetta and Head of TV, Jamie Laurenson.
See-Saw’s upcoming slate includes Francis Lee’s Ammonite, starring Kate Winslet and Saoirse Ronan, which will start shooting in March. Gillis recently brokered pre-sales on Ammonite on behalf of See-Saw’s in-house sales arm,...
Based in London, Gillis will continue to report directly to joint MDs Emile Sherman and Iain Canning and will oversee the film division’s day-to-day operations across its London, Sydney and La offices, including production finance and strategy, business development, legal and business affairs.
Gillis will continue to work closely with the film division’s Heads of Production, Nicky Earnshaw (UK), Libby Sharpe (Australia), and Head of Development, Katherine Bridle. See-Saw’s TV division will continue to be co-run by its COO, Hakan Kousetta and Head of TV, Jamie Laurenson.
See-Saw’s upcoming slate includes Francis Lee’s Ammonite, starring Kate Winslet and Saoirse Ronan, which will start shooting in March. Gillis recently brokered pre-sales on Ammonite on behalf of See-Saw’s in-house sales arm,...
- 1/23/2019
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: New Regency has acquired N, a Javier Gullón short story he pitched as a grounded science fiction film with franchise potential. See-Saw’s Iain Canning and Emile Sherman and Pacific View’s Peter Dealbert are attached to produce.
The deal was mid-six against seven figures and had at least six bidders vying both for film and TV. Gullón chose to do it as a feature and he’ll write the script. Fox will handle worldwide distribution through its deal with New Regency.
A small group of journalists are invited to a remote location on the South Island of New Zealand to witness a scientific discovery in DNA that seemingly will change the course of history. What could go wrong? The journos find themselves forced to confront an experiment that could threaten the human race. One female journalist is left to fend for herself, alter the course of the future...
The deal was mid-six against seven figures and had at least six bidders vying both for film and TV. Gullón chose to do it as a feature and he’ll write the script. Fox will handle worldwide distribution through its deal with New Regency.
A small group of journalists are invited to a remote location on the South Island of New Zealand to witness a scientific discovery in DNA that seemingly will change the course of history. What could go wrong? The journos find themselves forced to confront an experiment that could threaten the human race. One female journalist is left to fend for herself, alter the course of the future...
- 11/27/2018
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Iain Canning and Emile Sherman’s See-Saw Films has appointed Nicky Earnshaw as Head of Production for the UK film and TV divisions. The exec is moving to the Lion and King’s Speech producer from Film4 where she has been acting Head of Production. At See-Saw, she is replacing Amy Jackson who is moving into independent producing and will continue to collaborate with the company on various projects.
Earnshaw, who at Film4 oversaw physical production on such titles as Disobedience, Beast and I Am Not A Witch, will be responsible for the production and day-to-day operations of See-Saw’s expanding film and TV slate developed and produced out of the UK office. In addition, she will oversee productions greenlit through the recently announced first look deal with New Regency, as part of See-Saw’s increasing presence in the U.S.
She will report to Co-Managing Directors Canning and...
Earnshaw, who at Film4 oversaw physical production on such titles as Disobedience, Beast and I Am Not A Witch, will be responsible for the production and day-to-day operations of See-Saw’s expanding film and TV slate developed and produced out of the UK office. In addition, she will oversee productions greenlit through the recently announced first look deal with New Regency, as part of See-Saw’s increasing presence in the U.S.
She will report to Co-Managing Directors Canning and...
- 5/31/2018
- by Nancy Tartaglione
- Deadline Film + TV
See-Saw Films has hired veteran executive Nicky Earnshaw as head of production for its U.K. film and television divisions, effective July 9.
Earnshaw will be responsible for the production and day-to-day operations of See-Saw’s film and TV slate developed and produced out of the U.K. office. In addition, she will oversee productions greenlit through the recently announced first-look deal with New Regency, as part of See-Saw’s increasing presence in the U.S.
Managing directors Iain Canning and Emile Sherman said: “Nicky is undeniably one of the most experienced and respected production executives in the business, with extensive industry knowledge particularly in the U.K. and excellent relationships with globally renowned filmmakers and talent. We are excited to have her join our team and have no doubt she will be an extraordinary asset to our growing film and television business.”
Earnshaw takes over the role from Amy Jackson,...
Earnshaw will be responsible for the production and day-to-day operations of See-Saw’s film and TV slate developed and produced out of the U.K. office. In addition, she will oversee productions greenlit through the recently announced first-look deal with New Regency, as part of See-Saw’s increasing presence in the U.S.
Managing directors Iain Canning and Emile Sherman said: “Nicky is undeniably one of the most experienced and respected production executives in the business, with extensive industry knowledge particularly in the U.K. and excellent relationships with globally renowned filmmakers and talent. We are excited to have her join our team and have no doubt she will be an extraordinary asset to our growing film and television business.”
Earnshaw takes over the role from Amy Jackson,...
- 5/31/2018
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
The TV team at See-Saw Films is working on a diverse mix of upcoming projects.
Top Of The Lake has come to define the work of See-Saw’s TV team, in the same way The King’s Speech did for their film division.
The first series of Jane Campion and Gerard Lee’s crime drama was nominated for five Emmys, two Golden Globes (with star Elisabeth Moss winning best miniseries actress) and best drama at the Baftas.
Led by head of television Jamie Laurenson (pictured below, left) and COO, television Hakan Kousetta (below, right), the independent production house pursue prestigious TV projects, often with film directors, and always with “people who have something to say and have a vision”, says Laurenson.
The duo are supported by television development executive Patrick Walters, Australia based producer Rachel Gardner and La-based VP of creative affairs (USA) Negin Salmasi, who works across both TV and film.
See-Saw has bases...
Top Of The Lake has come to define the work of See-Saw’s TV team, in the same way The King’s Speech did for their film division.
The first series of Jane Campion and Gerard Lee’s crime drama was nominated for five Emmys, two Golden Globes (with star Elisabeth Moss winning best miniseries actress) and best drama at the Baftas.
Led by head of television Jamie Laurenson (pictured below, left) and COO, television Hakan Kousetta (below, right), the independent production house pursue prestigious TV projects, often with film directors, and always with “people who have something to say and have a vision”, says Laurenson.
The duo are supported by television development executive Patrick Walters, Australia based producer Rachel Gardner and La-based VP of creative affairs (USA) Negin Salmasi, who works across both TV and film.
See-Saw has bases...
- 8/4/2017
- by orlando.parfitt@screendaily.com (Orlando Parfitt)
- ScreenDaily
The TV team at See-Saw Films are working on a diverse mix of upcoming projects.
Top Of The Lake has come to define the work of See-Saw’s TV team, in the same way The King’s Speech did for their film division.
The first series of Jane Campion and Gerard Lee’s crime drama was nominated for five Emmys, two Golden Globes (with star Elisabeth Moss winning best miniseries actress) and best drama at the Baftas.
Led by head of television Jamie Laurenson (pictured below, left) and COO, television Hakan Kousetta (below, right), the independent production house pursue prestigious TV projects, often with film directors, and always with “people who have something to say and have a vision”, says Laurenson.
The duo are supported by television development executive Patrick Walters, Australia based producer Rachel Gardner and La-based VP of creative affairs (USA) Negin Salmasi, who works across both TV and film.
See-Saw has bases...
Top Of The Lake has come to define the work of See-Saw’s TV team, in the same way The King’s Speech did for their film division.
The first series of Jane Campion and Gerard Lee’s crime drama was nominated for five Emmys, two Golden Globes (with star Elisabeth Moss winning best miniseries actress) and best drama at the Baftas.
Led by head of television Jamie Laurenson (pictured below, left) and COO, television Hakan Kousetta (below, right), the independent production house pursue prestigious TV projects, often with film directors, and always with “people who have something to say and have a vision”, says Laurenson.
The duo are supported by television development executive Patrick Walters, Australia based producer Rachel Gardner and La-based VP of creative affairs (USA) Negin Salmasi, who works across both TV and film.
See-Saw has bases...
- 8/4/2017
- by orlando.parfitt@screendaily.com (Orlando Parfitt)
- ScreenDaily
Former Pascal Pictures executive Negin Salmasi to oversee Los Angeles-based operation.
Coming off a busy Cannes where they premiered How To Talk To Girls At Parties and Top Of The Lake: China Girl, See-Saw Films joint MD’s Iain Canning and Emile Sherman have opened a Los Angeles office, effective immediately.
Negin Salmasi will head the Us hub and has joined the company in the newly created role of vice-president of creative affairs for the film and television divisions.
Salmasi, who most recently served as a film and TV development executive at Amy Pascal’s Sony-based Pascal Pictures, will work closely with See-Saw’s UK and Australian offices.
“We are thrilled to have Negin join the See-Saw family,” Canning and Sherman said. “It’s clear that Negin is an extremely talented creative executive with wonderful talent relationships and a deep understanding of quality material. Negin is the perfect person to spearhead our Us presence as part...
Coming off a busy Cannes where they premiered How To Talk To Girls At Parties and Top Of The Lake: China Girl, See-Saw Films joint MD’s Iain Canning and Emile Sherman have opened a Los Angeles office, effective immediately.
Negin Salmasi will head the Us hub and has joined the company in the newly created role of vice-president of creative affairs for the film and television divisions.
Salmasi, who most recently served as a film and TV development executive at Amy Pascal’s Sony-based Pascal Pictures, will work closely with See-Saw’s UK and Australian offices.
“We are thrilled to have Negin join the See-Saw family,” Canning and Sherman said. “It’s clear that Negin is an extremely talented creative executive with wonderful talent relationships and a deep understanding of quality material. Negin is the perfect person to spearhead our Us presence as part...
- 6/1/2017
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
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