Some clever ideas are wasted in this wobbly drama as a group of friends discover a dead body in nearby woodland
A gender-switched riff on Stand By Me sounds like an intriguing idea – a dead body is discovered by four pre-teen girls – and interesting things do happen in this film at first, in that it declines to conform tonally to what you expect; and yet the quirky-dreamy YA style persists. However, there is something uncertain and soft-centre about what follows, and the plot unrealities make it very silly.
Lola (Sanai Victoria), Mari (Eden Grace Redfield), Daisy (Madalen Mills) and Daisy (Lia Barnett) are four best friends in an American suburb, whiling away the long hot summer before they start middle school. Rambling aimlessly through some woodland outside town, they are stunned to discover the corpse of a man, and find themselves mostly reluctant to tell the police or their parents:...
A gender-switched riff on Stand By Me sounds like an intriguing idea – a dead body is discovered by four pre-teen girls – and interesting things do happen in this film at first, in that it declines to conform tonally to what you expect; and yet the quirky-dreamy YA style persists. However, there is something uncertain and soft-centre about what follows, and the plot unrealities make it very silly.
Lola (Sanai Victoria), Mari (Eden Grace Redfield), Daisy (Madalen Mills) and Daisy (Lia Barnett) are four best friends in an American suburb, whiling away the long hot summer before they start middle school. Rambling aimlessly through some woodland outside town, they are stunned to discover the corpse of a man, and find themselves mostly reluctant to tell the police or their parents:...
- 11/30/2022
- by Peter Bradshaw
- The Guardian - Film News
Sony Pictures has debuted a new trailer for the coming-of-age offering ‘Summering.’
During their last days of summer and childhood – the weekend before middle school begins – four girls struggle with the harsh truths of growing up and embark on a mysterious adventure.
Directed by James Ponsoldt, the film stars Megan Mullally, Lake Bell, Sarah Cooper, Ashley Madekwe, Lia Barnett, Madalen Mills, Eden Grace Redfield, and Sanai Victoria.
Also in trailers – Michelle Yeoh stars in teaser trailer for series ‘The Witcher: Blood Origin’
The film hits cinemas on December 2nd.
The post “The older I am, the more complicated my life gets…” Trailer lands for ‘Summering’ appeared first on HeyUGuys.
During their last days of summer and childhood – the weekend before middle school begins – four girls struggle with the harsh truths of growing up and embark on a mysterious adventure.
Directed by James Ponsoldt, the film stars Megan Mullally, Lake Bell, Sarah Cooper, Ashley Madekwe, Lia Barnett, Madalen Mills, Eden Grace Redfield, and Sanai Victoria.
Also in trailers – Michelle Yeoh stars in teaser trailer for series ‘The Witcher: Blood Origin’
The film hits cinemas on December 2nd.
The post “The older I am, the more complicated my life gets…” Trailer lands for ‘Summering’ appeared first on HeyUGuys.
- 11/15/2022
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Summering Review — Summering (2022) Film Review, a movie directed by James Ponsoldt, written by Benjamin Percy and James Ponsoldt and starring Lia Barnett, Sanai Victoria, Madalen Mills, Eden Grace Redfield, Lake Bell, Sarah Cooper, Ashley Madekwe, Megan Mullally, Dale McKeel, Yolanda Stange, Colleen Baum, Nick Mathews, Lu Prickett and Camrey Bagley Fox. Summer’s not [...]
Continue reading: Film Review: Summering (2022): Director James Ponsoldt Returns with a Watchable Story of Four Young Friends...
Continue reading: Film Review: Summering (2022): Director James Ponsoldt Returns with a Watchable Story of Four Young Friends...
- 9/11/2022
- by Thomas Duffy
- Film-Book
A handful of smaller films will start to test audience enthusiasm for movie theaters without big tentpoles. It’s been a rocky summer for specialty releases, and an uphill climb as arthouses emerge from Covid jitters with franchise films sucking up oxygen and screens. But superheroes are on hiatus.
“There isn’t giant competition from tentpoles,” said Howard Cohen, co-president of Roadside Attractions. “On balance, it’s good. Obviously, if you have Top Gun, it sucks the air out of the marketplace. It’s still better — for the specialty market — to have three or four indies than one giant release. Exhibitors are antsy about the sudden dearth of new wide releases this month and next, but they’ve also been asking for more box office breadth.
“We have seen signs of life in our sector,...
“There isn’t giant competition from tentpoles,” said Howard Cohen, co-president of Roadside Attractions. “On balance, it’s good. Obviously, if you have Top Gun, it sucks the air out of the marketplace. It’s still better — for the specialty market — to have three or four indies than one giant release. Exhibitors are antsy about the sudden dearth of new wide releases this month and next, but they’ve also been asking for more box office breadth.
“We have seen signs of life in our sector,...
- 8/12/2022
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Here’s a look at this week’s biggest premieres, parties and openings in Los Angeles and New York, including red carpets for Never Have I Ever, Beast, Day Shift and Secret Headquarters.
Beast premiere
Idris Elba premiered his new film alongside producer Will Packer and costars Sharlto Copley, Iyana Halley and Leah Sava Jeffries at MoMA on Monday.
Idris Elba, Sabrina Dhowre, Heather Hayslett and Will Packer Sharlto Copley, Iyana Halley, Leah Jeffries and Idris Elba
Secret Headquarters premiere
Owen Wilson, Jesse Williams, Michael Peña and Jessie Mueller walked the red carpet on Monday in NYC for the premiere of their Paramount+ superhero family film.
Jesse Williams, Owen Wilson, Michael Peña, Ariel Schulman, Henry Joost and Jessie Mueller Paramount CEO Bob Bakish and Owen Wilson
Five Days at Memorial premiere
On Monday, Apple TV+ celebrated the premiere of Five Days at Memorial...
Here’s a look at this week’s biggest premieres, parties and openings in Los Angeles and New York, including red carpets for Never Have I Ever, Beast, Day Shift and Secret Headquarters.
Beast premiere
Idris Elba premiered his new film alongside producer Will Packer and costars Sharlto Copley, Iyana Halley and Leah Sava Jeffries at MoMA on Monday.
Idris Elba, Sabrina Dhowre, Heather Hayslett and Will Packer Sharlto Copley, Iyana Halley, Leah Jeffries and Idris Elba
Secret Headquarters premiere
Owen Wilson, Jesse Williams, Michael Peña and Jessie Mueller walked the red carpet on Monday in NYC for the premiere of their Paramount+ superhero family film.
Jesse Williams, Owen Wilson, Michael Peña, Ariel Schulman, Henry Joost and Jessie Mueller Paramount CEO Bob Bakish and Owen Wilson
Five Days at Memorial premiere
On Monday, Apple TV+ celebrated the premiere of Five Days at Memorial...
- 8/12/2022
- by Kirsten Chuba
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Scott Thompson on Wbgr-fm on August 11th, reviewing “Summering,” the latest from co-writer and director James Ponsoldt. The film is in theaters beginning August 12th.
Rating: 3.5/5.0
The film is a quasi-reimagining of the “Stand By Me” story … but this time it’s four girl pre-teens that discover a dead body, while at the same time celebrating their long grade school bond right before transitioning to middle school. Instead of going to the authorities regarding their find, they decide to investigate on their own, leading to the last adventure of their summer. The cast includes Sarah Cooper, Megan Mullally, Ashley Madekwe and Lake Bell as their mothers.
“Summering” opens in theaters on August 12th. Featuring Lia Barnett, Sanai Victoria, Madalen Mills, Eden Grace Redfield, Sarah Cooper, Megan Mullally, Ashley Madekwe and Lake Bell. Written by James Ponsoldt and Benjamin Percy.
Rating: 3.5/5.0
The film is a quasi-reimagining of the “Stand By Me” story … but this time it’s four girl pre-teens that discover a dead body, while at the same time celebrating their long grade school bond right before transitioning to middle school. Instead of going to the authorities regarding their find, they decide to investigate on their own, leading to the last adventure of their summer. The cast includes Sarah Cooper, Megan Mullally, Ashley Madekwe and Lake Bell as their mothers.
“Summering” opens in theaters on August 12th. Featuring Lia Barnett, Sanai Victoria, Madalen Mills, Eden Grace Redfield, Sarah Cooper, Megan Mullally, Ashley Madekwe and Lake Bell. Written by James Ponsoldt and Benjamin Percy.
- 8/12/2022
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
James Ponsoldt is expecting this question. Why did the guy who made films like “Smashed,” “The Spectacular Now,” and “The End of the Tour” — dark, knowing dramas about messed-up adults, typically with substance abuse problems and a host of neuroses — turn his attention to “Summering,” a film about four tween girls in the waning days of their favorite season?
He’s got the answer in hand: He’s a parent of three kids, his wife Megan works in the public-school system, and this is the stuff he wants to share with his family.
But the real answer? It’s still a James Ponsoldt film. It’s not as dark as its predecessors, but the filmmaker is still using his craft to ask some very deep questions. “Summering” is, after all, about a group of girls who discover a very dead body and must grapple with what to do next.
“Those...
He’s got the answer in hand: He’s a parent of three kids, his wife Megan works in the public-school system, and this is the stuff he wants to share with his family.
But the real answer? It’s still a James Ponsoldt film. It’s not as dark as its predecessors, but the filmmaker is still using his craft to ask some very deep questions. “Summering” is, after all, about a group of girls who discover a very dead body and must grapple with what to do next.
“Those...
- 8/12/2022
- by Kate Erbland
- Indiewire
If movies have taught us anything it’s that childhood is a magical time where, if you’re doing it right, you befriend space aliens, rescue orcas, inherit chocolate factories or play every sport imaginable with an omni-talented Olympian dog.
Or, if you’re more of the melancholic type, at least you find a dead body in the woods. That’s the bare minimum anyone can ask for.
James Ponsoldt’s “Summering” is a direct descendant of “Stand By Me,” films about youngsters peppered with wispy nostalgia, in which the innocence of their youth is challenged by a corpse tucked away where only children are likely to find it. But whereas Rob Reiner’s classic coming-of-age film romanticized a decades-bygone era, Ponsoldt finds the same magically complicated mash-up of naiveté and depth in a contemporary setting. Childhood, he seems to argue, is always magical and horrifying in equal measure, no...
Or, if you’re more of the melancholic type, at least you find a dead body in the woods. That’s the bare minimum anyone can ask for.
James Ponsoldt’s “Summering” is a direct descendant of “Stand By Me,” films about youngsters peppered with wispy nostalgia, in which the innocence of their youth is challenged by a corpse tucked away where only children are likely to find it. But whereas Rob Reiner’s classic coming-of-age film romanticized a decades-bygone era, Ponsoldt finds the same magically complicated mash-up of naiveté and depth in a contemporary setting. Childhood, he seems to argue, is always magical and horrifying in equal measure, no...
- 8/11/2022
- by William Bibbiani
- The Wrap
There’s a moment within the first few minutes of Summering — James Ponsoldt’s delicate, affectionate tribute to the wonder years (or more specifically, the seasonal wonder months) between childhood’s end and teenage riots — that captures the blurred, giddy adrenaline rush of youth in full bloom. Four girls are goofing around, hiding in bathtubs and scaring each other with masks. Someone’s mom shoos them all out of the house. And then the quartet begins to sprint across a front lawn in slow motion, screaming and giggling as they...
- 8/9/2022
- by David Fear
- Rollingstone.com
Chicago – Filmmaker James Ponsoldt has earned the moniker “veteran” in front of his name, after notable hits like “The Spectacular Now,” “The End of the Tour” and “The Circle” (with Tom Hanks). He’s back with a seasonal film called “Summering,” featuring four girls going through their own “Stand by Me” moment.
Ponsoldt’s latest film was co-written with Benjamin Percey, and it’s possibly his most romantic. It’s a quasi-reimagining of the “Stand By Me” story … but this time it’s a group of girl pre-teens that discover a dead body, and are celebrating their long grade school bond right before transitioning to middle school. Instead of going to the authorities regarding their find, they decide to investigate on their own, leading to the last adventure of their summer and the path to whatever is coming next. The cast includes Sarah Cooper, Megan Mullally, Ashley Madekwe and Lake Bell as their mothers.
Ponsoldt’s latest film was co-written with Benjamin Percey, and it’s possibly his most romantic. It’s a quasi-reimagining of the “Stand By Me” story … but this time it’s a group of girl pre-teens that discover a dead body, and are celebrating their long grade school bond right before transitioning to middle school. Instead of going to the authorities regarding their find, they decide to investigate on their own, leading to the last adventure of their summer and the path to whatever is coming next. The cast includes Sarah Cooper, Megan Mullally, Ashley Madekwe and Lake Bell as their mothers.
- 8/9/2022
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
The years of middle school — a swirl of hormones and insecurity — are remembered as primetime for agony by many. But there is also something beautifully wistful about those dog days of youth, on the cusp of becoming more of an adult in high school, or at least adult-adjacent.
“The Spectacular Now” and “The End of the Tour” director James Ponsoldt aims to capture in a bottle those feelings of The Last Summer of middle school before stepping onto the next phase with his film “Summering.” The film written by Ponsoldt with Benjamin Percy centers on four girls weathering harsh truths and coming of age at the end of middle school. It premiered at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year and next will release from Bleecker Street Films nationwide on August 12. Watch the trailer below.
The cast includes Lia Barnett, Lake Bell, Sarah Cooper, Ashley Madekwe, Madalen Mills, Megan Mullally,...
“The Spectacular Now” and “The End of the Tour” director James Ponsoldt aims to capture in a bottle those feelings of The Last Summer of middle school before stepping onto the next phase with his film “Summering.” The film written by Ponsoldt with Benjamin Percy centers on four girls weathering harsh truths and coming of age at the end of middle school. It premiered at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year and next will release from Bleecker Street Films nationwide on August 12. Watch the trailer below.
The cast includes Lia Barnett, Lake Bell, Sarah Cooper, Ashley Madekwe, Madalen Mills, Megan Mullally,...
- 7/17/2022
- by Ryan Lattanzio
- Indiewire
"I don't want this weekend to end... I don't want 'us' to end." Bleecker Street has revealed an official trailer for an indie coming-of-age film titled Summering, which premiered at the 2022 Sundance Film Festival earlier this year. This is the newest film from acclaimed director James Ponsoldt, who has been one of our Sundance favorites for more than a decade, directing Off the Black, Smashed, The Spectacular Now, and The End of the Tour previously. During their last days of summer and of childhood -- the weekend before middle school begins -- four girls struggle with the harsh truths of growing up and embark on a mysterious adventure. It's pretty much a remake of Stand By Me, but with four girls instead, and a few different twists thrown in. The cast features Lia Barnett, Lake Bell, Sarah Cooper, Ashley Madekwe, Madalen Mills, Megan Mullally, Eden Grace Redfield, and Sanai Victoria.
- 7/12/2022
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
“Summering” is a tender coming-of-age story that follows four best friends, Daisy (played by Lia Barnett), Dina (played by Madalen Mills), Mari (played by Eden Grace Redfield) and Lola (played by Sanai Victoria) who try to solve a mystery the last weekend before they start middle school and their lives — as they know them — change forever.
The girls find a body, and while searching for clues to figure out the man’s identity, they let their anxieties, worries and deeper feelings spill out to each other.
Director and writer James Ponsoldt and actors Lia Barnett, Lake Bell, Sarah Cooper, Ashley Madekwe, Eden Grace Redfield, Megan Mullally and Sanai Victoria sat down for interviews at TheWrap’s virtual Sundance studio to discuss the film.
Ponsoldt said the “biggest thing” that drove him to make this children-centered and driven film is the fact that he himself became a parent to three young kids.
The girls find a body, and while searching for clues to figure out the man’s identity, they let their anxieties, worries and deeper feelings spill out to each other.
Director and writer James Ponsoldt and actors Lia Barnett, Lake Bell, Sarah Cooper, Ashley Madekwe, Eden Grace Redfield, Megan Mullally and Sanai Victoria sat down for interviews at TheWrap’s virtual Sundance studio to discuss the film.
Ponsoldt said the “biggest thing” that drove him to make this children-centered and driven film is the fact that he himself became a parent to three young kids.
- 1/29/2022
- by Aarohi Sheth
- The Wrap
“What’s going on with our girls?” asks the emotionally drained mother of a tween girl in James Ponsoldt’s Summering. As any parent (or relative) of a pre-teen can attest, that’s a complex question with no simple answer. The manner in which Ponsoldt answers said question is ultimately what sinks Summering, a ho-hum coming-of-age dramedy. Summering does not trust that its characters will hold the attention of its audience—a crucial miscalculation that derails this Sundance entry that is certainly promising on paper.
That miscalculation is the decision to force a murder-mystery subplot into a sweet story of four friends’ final days before the start of middle school. No surprise seeing that type of useless diversion wedged into the film. What is a surprise, though, is the degree to which that mystery takes over and ultimately dominates Summering. Perhaps this film, scripted by Ponsoldt and Benjamin Percy, is...
That miscalculation is the decision to force a murder-mystery subplot into a sweet story of four friends’ final days before the start of middle school. No surprise seeing that type of useless diversion wedged into the film. What is a surprise, though, is the degree to which that mystery takes over and ultimately dominates Summering. Perhaps this film, scripted by Ponsoldt and Benjamin Percy, is...
- 1/24/2022
- by Christopher Schobert
- The Film Stage
On a balmy Labor Day weekend, four best friends find a dead body in the woods, the discovery marking an end of innocence as adolescence beckons. If you think you’ve seen this one before, “Summering” makes no apology for the resemblance. Right down to a stolen pistol shoved in a backpack, James Ponsoldt’s unhurried, sun-kissed coming-of-age drama plays as an all-female homage to Rob Reiner’s “Stand By Me” — a reference that won’t mean much to the pre-teen girls at whom it’s aimed, but may make some of their parents a little misty-eyed. Yet nostalgia may be the strongest emotion engendered by this breeze-blown dandelion seed of a film, which nods to the bittersweet complexities of growing up and confronting adulthood, but never gets as far as fully dramatizing them.
As such, “Summering” is a pleasant enough watch for patient, thoughtful children and their elders alike,...
As such, “Summering” is a pleasant enough watch for patient, thoughtful children and their elders alike,...
- 1/23/2022
- by Guy Lodge
- Variety Film + TV
I might be tempted to call writer-director James Ponsoldt’s new coming-of-age film about four young girls who discover the dead body of a man on the last summer days before starting middle school Stand By She. Okay I will. Its actual title is Summering and it is a sweet and sincere attempt to give young girls the kind of edge-of-turning-teen story of a last summer of no worries with your friends that has mostly been reserved for boys in classic Hollywood films in the genre. With a screenplay Ponsoldt, with co-writer Benjamin Percy, was inspired to create coming out of the pandemic, and new questions about life presented to our youngest members of the planet, they land on a somewhat dark situation. Four carefree young girls come face to face with death, and some special bonding in this unusual entry into the Kids section of the Sundance Film Festival where it is premiering today.
- 1/23/2022
- by Pete Hammond
- Deadline Film + TV
Is Elena ready for the challenges of seventh grade in the second season of the Diary of a Future President TV show on Disney+? As we all know, the Nielsen ratings typically play a big role in determining whether a TV show like Diary of a Future President is cancelled or renewed for season three. Disney+ and other streaming platforms, however, collect their own data. If you've been watching this TV series, we'd love to know how you feel about the second season episodes of Diary of a Future President here. Status Update Below.
A Disney+ comedy series, Diary of a Future President stars Tess Romero, Gina Rodriguez, Selenis Leyva, Charlie Bushnell, and Michael Weaver, with Jessica Marie Garcia, Carmina Garay, Sanai Victoria, Harmeet Pandey, Brandon Severs, and Nathan Arenas in recurring roles. A family comedy series, the TV show unfolds the origin story...
A Disney+ comedy series, Diary of a Future President stars Tess Romero, Gina Rodriguez, Selenis Leyva, Charlie Bushnell, and Michael Weaver, with Jessica Marie Garcia, Carmina Garay, Sanai Victoria, Harmeet Pandey, Brandon Severs, and Nathan Arenas in recurring roles. A family comedy series, the TV show unfolds the origin story...
- 12/14/2021
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
Diary of a Future President has come to an early end. It's been revealed that Disney+ has cancelled the coming-of-age TV show so, there won't be a third season. The second season of 10 episodes was released on August 18th.
A comedy-drama series, Diary of a Future President stars Tess Romero, Gina Rodriguez, Selenis Leyva, Charlie Bushnell, and Michael Weaver, with Jessica Marie Garcia, Carmina Garay, Sanai Victoria, Harmeet Pandey, Brandon Severs, and Nathan Arenas in recurring roles. The TV show unfolds the origin story of a future leader. Told via the narration of the diary of Elena Cañero-Reed (Romero), a 12-year-old Cuban American girl, the series follows her journey through the ups and downs of middle school. This sets her on the path to becoming the President of the United States. Season two follows Elena as she enters seventh grade.
A comedy-drama series, Diary of a Future President stars Tess Romero, Gina Rodriguez, Selenis Leyva, Charlie Bushnell, and Michael Weaver, with Jessica Marie Garcia, Carmina Garay, Sanai Victoria, Harmeet Pandey, Brandon Severs, and Nathan Arenas in recurring roles. The TV show unfolds the origin story of a future leader. Told via the narration of the diary of Elena Cañero-Reed (Romero), a 12-year-old Cuban American girl, the series follows her journey through the ups and downs of middle school. This sets her on the path to becoming the President of the United States. Season two follows Elena as she enters seventh grade.
- 12/14/2021
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
“Diary of a Future President” has been canceled after two seasons at Disney Plus.
Series creator Ilana Peña broke the news on Twitter. “We found out that [“Diary of a Future President”] is not moving forward with a season 3 at Disney+,” Peña wrote. “Of course, we would love to continue telling this story, but I am filled with so much gratitude for the 2 seasons that we did get to make.” Her full statement can be seen below.
“Diary of a Future President” originally debuted on Disney Plus in January 2020, airing through March of that year. The entire second season was then released at once on Aug. 18, 2021.
The series told the origin story of Cuban American and future leader Elena Cañero-Reed as she enters the seventh grade. Told using the narration of excerpts from Elena’s diary, the series followed Elena through the ups and downs of middle school which set...
Series creator Ilana Peña broke the news on Twitter. “We found out that [“Diary of a Future President”] is not moving forward with a season 3 at Disney+,” Peña wrote. “Of course, we would love to continue telling this story, but I am filled with so much gratitude for the 2 seasons that we did get to make.” Her full statement can be seen below.
“Diary of a Future President” originally debuted on Disney Plus in January 2020, airing through March of that year. The entire second season was then released at once on Aug. 18, 2021.
The series told the origin story of Cuban American and future leader Elena Cañero-Reed as she enters the seventh grade. Told using the narration of excerpts from Elena’s diary, the series followed Elena through the ups and downs of middle school which set...
- 12/13/2021
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Vulture Watch
Is Elena a born leader? Has the Diary of a Future President TV show been cancelled or renewed for a third season on Disney+? The television vulture is watching all the latest cancellation and renewal news, so this page is the place to track the status of Diary of a Future President, season three. Bookmark it, or subscribe for the latest updates. Remember, the television vulture is watching your shows. Are you?
What's This TV Show About?
Streaming on the Disney+ subscription service, Diary of a Future President stars Tess Romero, Gina Rodriguez, Selenis Leyva, Charlie Bushnell, and Michael Weaver, with Jessica Marie Garcia, Carmina Garay, Sanai Victoria, Harmeet Pandey, Brandon Severs, and Nathan Arenas in recurring roles. A family comedy series, the TV show unfolds the origin story of a future leader. Told via the narration of the diary of Elena Cañero-Reed...
Is Elena a born leader? Has the Diary of a Future President TV show been cancelled or renewed for a third season on Disney+? The television vulture is watching all the latest cancellation and renewal news, so this page is the place to track the status of Diary of a Future President, season three. Bookmark it, or subscribe for the latest updates. Remember, the television vulture is watching your shows. Are you?
What's This TV Show About?
Streaming on the Disney+ subscription service, Diary of a Future President stars Tess Romero, Gina Rodriguez, Selenis Leyva, Charlie Bushnell, and Michael Weaver, with Jessica Marie Garcia, Carmina Garay, Sanai Victoria, Harmeet Pandey, Brandon Severs, and Nathan Arenas in recurring roles. A family comedy series, the TV show unfolds the origin story of a future leader. Told via the narration of the diary of Elena Cañero-Reed...
- 8/19/2021
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
Bleecker Street has acquired the U.S. rights to “Summering,” the next film from director James Ponsoldt that co-stars comedian Sarah Cooper as part of an ensemble cast.
“Summering,” which is currently in production, is a coming-of-age story and mystery of four girls and their moms. The film’s four young stars include Lia Barnett, Madalen Mills, Eden Grace Redfield and Sanai Victoria. The girls’ mothers will be played by Cooper, Lake Bell, Ashley Madekwe and Megan Mullally.
“Summering” follows the four girls on the brink of starting middle school on the last weekend of summer, who take a mystery into their own hands when they make a startling discovery at one of their favorite old hangout spots.
Ponsoldt also co-wrote the script with Benjamin Percy.
Producers on “Summering” are P. Jennifer Dana of 3311 Productions, Peter Block of A Bigger Boat and James Ponsoldt through his Ninety-One Braves banner.
“Summering,” which is currently in production, is a coming-of-age story and mystery of four girls and their moms. The film’s four young stars include Lia Barnett, Madalen Mills, Eden Grace Redfield and Sanai Victoria. The girls’ mothers will be played by Cooper, Lake Bell, Ashley Madekwe and Megan Mullally.
“Summering” follows the four girls on the brink of starting middle school on the last weekend of summer, who take a mystery into their own hands when they make a startling discovery at one of their favorite old hangout spots.
Ponsoldt also co-wrote the script with Benjamin Percy.
Producers on “Summering” are P. Jennifer Dana of 3311 Productions, Peter Block of A Bigger Boat and James Ponsoldt through his Ninety-One Braves banner.
- 8/10/2021
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Bleecker Street and Stage 6 Films have jointly acquired worldwide rights to Summering, a new coming-of-age film from director James Ponsoldt (The Spectacular Now).
Bleecker Street will handle the film’s U.S. release, with Stage 6 overseeing its international distribution.
Lia Barnett, Lake Bell, Sarah Cooper, Ashley Madekwe, Madalen Mills, Megan Mullally, Eden Grace Redfield, and Sanai Victoria star in the film, scripted by Ponsoldt & Benjamin Percy.
It centers on Mari, Dina, Lola and Daisy, best friends on the brink of starting middle school, who realize their lives are about to change forever. So on the last weekend of summer, they set out to make the most of it. Nothing could prepare them, though, for the startling discovery they make while revisiting one of their favorite haunts. Instead of calling the police or telling their parents, they decide to take matters into their own hands by attempting to solve a mystery,...
Bleecker Street will handle the film’s U.S. release, with Stage 6 overseeing its international distribution.
Lia Barnett, Lake Bell, Sarah Cooper, Ashley Madekwe, Madalen Mills, Megan Mullally, Eden Grace Redfield, and Sanai Victoria star in the film, scripted by Ponsoldt & Benjamin Percy.
It centers on Mari, Dina, Lola and Daisy, best friends on the brink of starting middle school, who realize their lives are about to change forever. So on the last weekend of summer, they set out to make the most of it. Nothing could prepare them, though, for the startling discovery they make while revisiting one of their favorite haunts. Instead of calling the police or telling their parents, they decide to take matters into their own hands by attempting to solve a mystery,...
- 8/10/2021
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Bleecker Street and Stage 6 Films have picked up the worldwide rights to James Ponsoldt’s coming of age film Summering, now in production.
The film stars Lia Barnett, Lake Bell, Sarah Cooper, Ashley Madekwe, Madalen Mills, Megan Mullally, Eden Grace Redfield and Sanai Victoria. Written by Ponsoldt and Benjamin Percy, Summering portrays best friends Mari, Dina, Lola and Daisy making the most of their last summer weekend and facing a startling discovery as they revisit a favorite haunt.
Instead of calling the police or telling their parents, they take matters into their own hands to solve a mystery that takes them on a life-changing ...
The film stars Lia Barnett, Lake Bell, Sarah Cooper, Ashley Madekwe, Madalen Mills, Megan Mullally, Eden Grace Redfield and Sanai Victoria. Written by Ponsoldt and Benjamin Percy, Summering portrays best friends Mari, Dina, Lola and Daisy making the most of their last summer weekend and facing a startling discovery as they revisit a favorite haunt.
Instead of calling the police or telling their parents, they take matters into their own hands to solve a mystery that takes them on a life-changing ...
- 8/10/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Bleecker Street and Stage 6 Films have picked up the worldwide rights to James Ponsoldt’s coming of age film Summering, now in production.
The film stars Lia Barnett, Lake Bell, Sarah Cooper, Ashley Madekwe, Madalen Mills, Megan Mullally, Eden Grace Redfield and Sanai Victoria. Written by Ponsoldt and Benjamin Percy, Summering portrays best friends Mari, Dina, Lola and Daisy making the most of their last summer weekend and facing a startling discovery as they revisit a favorite haunt.
Instead of calling the police or telling their parents, they take matters into their own hands to solve a mystery that takes them on a life-changing ...
The film stars Lia Barnett, Lake Bell, Sarah Cooper, Ashley Madekwe, Madalen Mills, Megan Mullally, Eden Grace Redfield and Sanai Victoria. Written by Ponsoldt and Benjamin Percy, Summering portrays best friends Mari, Dina, Lola and Daisy making the most of their last summer weekend and facing a startling discovery as they revisit a favorite haunt.
Instead of calling the police or telling their parents, they take matters into their own hands to solve a mystery that takes them on a life-changing ...
- 8/10/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
James Ponsoldt directs, produces with P. Jennifer Dana, Peter Block.
Bleecker Street and Stage 6 Films have acquired worldwide rights to James Ponsoldt’s coming-of-age film Summering featuring a cast that includes Lake Bell, Sarah Cooper and Megan Mullally.
Ponsoldt and Benjamin Percy wrote the screenplay to the story of three best friends on the cusp of middle school who embark on a mystery. The cast includes Lia Barnett, Ashley Madekwe, Madalen Mills, Eden Grace Redfield and Sanai Victoria.
Bleecker Street will release the film in the US and Sony-owned Stage 6 Films handles international rights.
Producers are P. Jennifer Dana of 3311 Productions,...
Bleecker Street and Stage 6 Films have acquired worldwide rights to James Ponsoldt’s coming-of-age film Summering featuring a cast that includes Lake Bell, Sarah Cooper and Megan Mullally.
Ponsoldt and Benjamin Percy wrote the screenplay to the story of three best friends on the cusp of middle school who embark on a mystery. The cast includes Lia Barnett, Ashley Madekwe, Madalen Mills, Eden Grace Redfield and Sanai Victoria.
Bleecker Street will release the film in the US and Sony-owned Stage 6 Films handles international rights.
Producers are P. Jennifer Dana of 3311 Productions,...
- 8/10/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Season two of Diary of a Future President is coming to Disney+ next month. The second season will follow the middle school years of Elena Cañero-Reed – a future American president.
Gina Rodriguez executive produces the series, and she will appear as the grown-up Elena. Others in the cast include Tess Romero, Charlie Bushnell, Selenis Leyva, Michael Weaver, Jessica Marie Garcia, Carmina Garay, Sanai Victoria, Harmeet Pandey, Brandon Severs, and Nathan Arenas. All 10 episodes of season two will be available on its release date.
Read More…...
Gina Rodriguez executive produces the series, and she will appear as the grown-up Elena. Others in the cast include Tess Romero, Charlie Bushnell, Selenis Leyva, Michael Weaver, Jessica Marie Garcia, Carmina Garay, Sanai Victoria, Harmeet Pandey, Brandon Severs, and Nathan Arenas. All 10 episodes of season two will be available on its release date.
Read More…...
- 7/13/2021
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
Imagine Entertainment, Warner Music Group Join Forces to Produce and Finance Music-Centered Projects
Brian Grazer and Ron Howard’s Imagine Entertainment has signed a co-producing and co-financing partnership with Warner Music Group.
The two companies will collaborate on music-centered projects across multiple mediums, including film, television, documentary, and other short-form content. Imagine and Warner Music Group are already working together on the third season of National Geographic’s “Genius” anthology series, which spotlights Aretha Franklin.
Warner Music’s participation in the series will allow the series to feature many of Franklin’s songs and recordings, including “I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You),” “Chain of Fools,” “Don’t Play That Song,” “Since You’ve Been Gone” and “Baby I Love You.” It will also feature Franklin’s performances of “I Knew You Were Waiting for Me,” “Freeway of Love” and “Sisters Are Doin’ It for Themselves.” Cynthia Erivo stars the late Queen of Soul, alongside Courtney B. Vance, David Cross, Malcolm Barrett,...
The two companies will collaborate on music-centered projects across multiple mediums, including film, television, documentary, and other short-form content. Imagine and Warner Music Group are already working together on the third season of National Geographic’s “Genius” anthology series, which spotlights Aretha Franklin.
Warner Music’s participation in the series will allow the series to feature many of Franklin’s songs and recordings, including “I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You),” “Chain of Fools,” “Don’t Play That Song,” “Since You’ve Been Gone” and “Baby I Love You.” It will also feature Franklin’s performances of “I Knew You Were Waiting for Me,” “Freeway of Love” and “Sisters Are Doin’ It for Themselves.” Cynthia Erivo stars the late Queen of Soul, alongside Courtney B. Vance, David Cross, Malcolm Barrett,...
- 7/6/2020
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
National Geographic has pushed back the premiere date for “Genius: Aretha” from Memorial Day 2020 to “later this year.”
Like basically every other TV show, the limited series starring Cynthia Erivo as Aretha Franklin is on a forced production hiatus due to the coronavirus pandemic.
“Production on National Geographic’s limited series ‘Genius: Aretha’ (from Fox 21 Television Studios and Imagine Television Studios) remains suspended and it has become clear that the series will not be completed in time for our previously announced Memorial Day airdate,” a Nat Geo spokesperson said in a statement. “We look forward to resuming work as soon as is possible and safe, and at that time will announce a new premiere date for later this year.”...
Like basically every other TV show, the limited series starring Cynthia Erivo as Aretha Franklin is on a forced production hiatus due to the coronavirus pandemic.
“Production on National Geographic’s limited series ‘Genius: Aretha’ (from Fox 21 Television Studios and Imagine Television Studios) remains suspended and it has become clear that the series will not be completed in time for our previously announced Memorial Day airdate,” a Nat Geo spokesperson said in a statement. “We look forward to resuming work as soon as is possible and safe, and at that time will announce a new premiere date for later this year.”...
- 3/30/2020
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
Cynthia Erivo is ready for her close-up as Aretha Franklin!
The Oscars nominee, 33, completes her transformation into the Queen of Soul in the first teaser for National Geographic’s Genius: Aretha, a biographical television anthology series about the legendary singer.
In a short trailer released on Friday, Erivo captures Franklin’s passion for music — from her humble upbringing to recording her iconic hits in the studio.
“What kind of music do you really want to make, Miss Franklin?” producer Jerry Wexler, played by actor David Cross, asks her at one point in the clip.
To which Erivo’s Franklin replies,...
The Oscars nominee, 33, completes her transformation into the Queen of Soul in the first teaser for National Geographic’s Genius: Aretha, a biographical television anthology series about the legendary singer.
In a short trailer released on Friday, Erivo captures Franklin’s passion for music — from her humble upbringing to recording her iconic hits in the studio.
“What kind of music do you really want to make, Miss Franklin?” producer Jerry Wexler, played by actor David Cross, asks her at one point in the clip.
To which Erivo’s Franklin replies,...
- 2/8/2020
- by Gabrielle Chung
- PEOPLE.com
Have your first look at Cynthia Erivo as the Queen of Soul in the first teaser for Nat Geo’s “Genius: Aretha.” Watch it above now.
The clip is set to air on Nat Geo’s sister broadcast network ABC during Sunday’s Oscars telecast to promote the upcoming season of the anthology ahead of its May premiere.
Led by Ervio, who is nominated for multiple Oscars for her role in the Harriet Tubman biopic “Harriet,” “Genius: Aretha” is the third installment of the Nat Geo anthology dramatizing the lives of histories greatest innovators.
Also Read: 'Genius: Aretha' Star Cynthia Erivo Sent a Note of Congratulations to 'Respect' Star Jennifer Hudson
“Genius: Aretha” will premiere on Nat Geo across four consecutive nights, beginning Memorial Day, Monday, May 25. Per Nat Geo, the eight-part series will “explore Franklin’s musical genius and incomparable career — and the immeasurable impact and lasting...
The clip is set to air on Nat Geo’s sister broadcast network ABC during Sunday’s Oscars telecast to promote the upcoming season of the anthology ahead of its May premiere.
Led by Ervio, who is nominated for multiple Oscars for her role in the Harriet Tubman biopic “Harriet,” “Genius: Aretha” is the third installment of the Nat Geo anthology dramatizing the lives of histories greatest innovators.
Also Read: 'Genius: Aretha' Star Cynthia Erivo Sent a Note of Congratulations to 'Respect' Star Jennifer Hudson
“Genius: Aretha” will premiere on Nat Geo across four consecutive nights, beginning Memorial Day, Monday, May 25. Per Nat Geo, the eight-part series will “explore Franklin’s musical genius and incomparable career — and the immeasurable impact and lasting...
- 2/7/2020
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
Season 3 of National Geographic’s “Genius” will focus on Aretha Franklin, with two-time Oscar nominee Cynthia Erivo (“Harriet”) tapped to play the legendary singer. So why was Erivo right for the part? “It’s just all about her capability in bringing Aretha to the screen with real power and integrity,” Ron Howard revealed to Gold Derby at the 2020 Television Academy Hall of Fame ceremony. Howard is an executive producer and director of the Emmy-winning biopic limited series, which has already chronicled the lives of Albert Einstein (Geoffrey Rush) in 2017 and Pablo Picasso (Antonio Banderas) in 2018. Watch our red carpet interview with Howard above.
SEEOscars 2020 performers include Cynthia Erivo, Elton John, Idina Menzel, Chrissy Metz, Randy Newman
In between shooting “Genius: Aretha,” Erivo is busy campaigning for a pair of Oscars for “Harriet”: Best Actress for portraying Harriet Tubman and Best Song for co-writing “Stand Up” with Joshuah Brian Campbell.
SEEOscars 2020 performers include Cynthia Erivo, Elton John, Idina Menzel, Chrissy Metz, Randy Newman
In between shooting “Genius: Aretha,” Erivo is busy campaigning for a pair of Oscars for “Harriet”: Best Actress for portraying Harriet Tubman and Best Song for co-writing “Stand Up” with Joshuah Brian Campbell.
- 1/31/2020
- by Marcus James Dixon and Chris Beachum
- Gold Derby
‘Genius: Aretha’ Star Cynthia Erivo Sent a Note of Congratulations to ‘Respect’ Star Jennifer Hudson
2020 will see dueling Aretha Franklin biopics, with Cynthia Erivo set to portray the Queen of Soul in Nat Geo’s “Genius: Aretha” and Jennifer Hudson taking on the role in the feature film “Respect.” But all involved in the Nat Geo series say there’s room for everyone.
“I haven’t spoken to Jennifer personally,” Erivo said at the Television Critics Association press tour on Friday. “[But] I sent her a message saying congratulations. I’m really looking forward to seeing her version in the film.”
“I’m actually excited by the fact that we get to tell her story more than once,” she said. “I think the more the merrier. There are many heroes out there who have had their story told many different times, and to have someone like Aretha to have a moment to tell her story more than once, and tell it again and again, is kind of amazing.
“I haven’t spoken to Jennifer personally,” Erivo said at the Television Critics Association press tour on Friday. “[But] I sent her a message saying congratulations. I’m really looking forward to seeing her version in the film.”
“I’m actually excited by the fact that we get to tell her story more than once,” she said. “I think the more the merrier. There are many heroes out there who have had their story told many different times, and to have someone like Aretha to have a moment to tell her story more than once, and tell it again and again, is kind of amazing.
- 1/18/2020
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Nat Geo is rounding out its cast for Genius: Aretha, the next installment of its popular anthology from Imagine Television and Fox 21 TV Studios that stars Cynthia Erivo as the Queen of Soul.
Newcomer Shaian Jordan is set as a series regular in a recasting. Additionally, Dear White People‘s Marque Richardson, Pauletta Washington (She’s Gotta Have It), Steven Norfleet (Watchmen) and Queen Sugar star Omar J. Dorsey have been cast in recurring roles. They join Erivo and previously announced cast Courtney B. Vance, Malcolm Barrett, Patrice Covington, Kimberly Hébert Gregory and Rebecca Naomi Jones. Anthony Hemingway executive produces and directs the pilot episode.
Billed as the first, definitive and only authorized scripted limited series on Franklin’s life, Genius: Aretha is slated for a spring premiere on National Geographic channels in 172 countries and 43 languages.
Jordan will play Little Re, replacing Sanai Victoria who played the role in the pilot.
Newcomer Shaian Jordan is set as a series regular in a recasting. Additionally, Dear White People‘s Marque Richardson, Pauletta Washington (She’s Gotta Have It), Steven Norfleet (Watchmen) and Queen Sugar star Omar J. Dorsey have been cast in recurring roles. They join Erivo and previously announced cast Courtney B. Vance, Malcolm Barrett, Patrice Covington, Kimberly Hébert Gregory and Rebecca Naomi Jones. Anthony Hemingway executive produces and directs the pilot episode.
Billed as the first, definitive and only authorized scripted limited series on Franklin’s life, Genius: Aretha is slated for a spring premiere on National Geographic channels in 172 countries and 43 languages.
Jordan will play Little Re, replacing Sanai Victoria who played the role in the pilot.
- 1/15/2020
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
In today’s TV news roundup, Showtime drops the trailer for the final season of “Homeland,” and National Geographic reveals the first look at Cynthia Erivo as Aretha Franklin in “Genius: Aretha.”
First Looks
Showtime released the trailer for the final season of “Homeland,“ premiering Feb. 9. The eighth and final season, starring Claire Danes and Mandy Patinkin, finds Carrie (Danes) recovering from months of brutal confinement. The Emmy-winning drama is produced by Fox 21 Television Studios.
National Geographic released a first look photo at Cynthia Erivo as Aretha Franklin in the eight-part limited biopic series “Genius: Aretha,“ premiering in May 2020. “Over the last few months, I’ve been preparing myself to embody the Queen of Soul, from re-listening to her music to discovering her rare interviews and reading some amazing books on her — all to really capture Aretha’s attitude and spirit,” said Erivo. The ensemble cast includes Courtney B. Vance (“The People v.
First Looks
Showtime released the trailer for the final season of “Homeland,“ premiering Feb. 9. The eighth and final season, starring Claire Danes and Mandy Patinkin, finds Carrie (Danes) recovering from months of brutal confinement. The Emmy-winning drama is produced by Fox 21 Television Studios.
National Geographic released a first look photo at Cynthia Erivo as Aretha Franklin in the eight-part limited biopic series “Genius: Aretha,“ premiering in May 2020. “Over the last few months, I’ve been preparing myself to embody the Queen of Soul, from re-listening to her music to discovering her rare interviews and reading some amazing books on her — all to really capture Aretha’s attitude and spirit,” said Erivo. The ensemble cast includes Courtney B. Vance (“The People v.
- 12/7/2019
- by LaTesha Harris
- Variety Film + TV
National Geographic released a first look photo of “Genius” star Cynthia Erivo in character as Aretha Franklin on Friday.
The “Harriet” star is currently in production on the third season of the anthology series, which is set to premiere on Nat Geo in May 2020.
“Over the last few months, I’ve been preparing myself to embody the Queen of Soul, from re-listening to her music to discovering her rare interviews and reading some amazing books on her — all to really capture Aretha’s attitude and spirit,” Erivo said. “I’m truly humbled to be working alongside a very talented and musical team. Together, we’ll serve the Queen and create something special.”
Also Read: Courtney B Vance Joins Nat Geo's 'Genius' as Aretha Franklin's Father
Nat Geo
Joining Erivo in “Genius: Aretha” is an ensemble cast including Courtney B. Vance, David Cross, Malcolm Barrett, Patrice Covington, Kimberly Hébert Gregory,...
The “Harriet” star is currently in production on the third season of the anthology series, which is set to premiere on Nat Geo in May 2020.
“Over the last few months, I’ve been preparing myself to embody the Queen of Soul, from re-listening to her music to discovering her rare interviews and reading some amazing books on her — all to really capture Aretha’s attitude and spirit,” Erivo said. “I’m truly humbled to be working alongside a very talented and musical team. Together, we’ll serve the Queen and create something special.”
Also Read: Courtney B Vance Joins Nat Geo's 'Genius' as Aretha Franklin's Father
Nat Geo
Joining Erivo in “Genius: Aretha” is an ensemble cast including Courtney B. Vance, David Cross, Malcolm Barrett, Patrice Covington, Kimberly Hébert Gregory,...
- 12/6/2019
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
Cynthia Erivo is transformed into the late, great Queen of Soul in a first-look photo from Genius: Aretha, the upcoming biographical series from National Geographic and Fox 21 Television Studios.
See the photo below.
Erivo, a Tony Award winner for Broadway’s 2015 The Color Purple and the star of this year’s Harriet Tubman biopic Harriet, will play Aretha Franklin in the third installment of the series (following seasons devoted to Albert Einstein and Pablo Picasso).
“Over the last few months,” said Erivo, “I’ve been preparing myself to embody the Queen of Soul, from relistening to her music to discovering her rare interviews and reading some amazing books on her — all to really capture Aretha’s attitude and spirit. I’m truly humbled to be working alongside a very talented and musical team. Together, we’ll serve the Queen and create something special.”
Also featured in the cast are...
See the photo below.
Erivo, a Tony Award winner for Broadway’s 2015 The Color Purple and the star of this year’s Harriet Tubman biopic Harriet, will play Aretha Franklin in the third installment of the series (following seasons devoted to Albert Einstein and Pablo Picasso).
“Over the last few months,” said Erivo, “I’ve been preparing myself to embody the Queen of Soul, from relistening to her music to discovering her rare interviews and reading some amazing books on her — all to really capture Aretha’s attitude and spirit. I’m truly humbled to be working alongside a very talented and musical team. Together, we’ll serve the Queen and create something special.”
Also featured in the cast are...
- 12/6/2019
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
David Cross has joined the cast of the upcoming third season of “Genius” at Nat Geo, which will focus on music legend Aretha Franklin.
Cross will star as music producer Jerry Wexler. Cynthia Erivo is set to play Franklin, with Courtney B. Vance, Malcolm Barrett, Patrice Covington, Kimberly Hébert Gregory, Rebecca Naomi Jones, and Sanai Victoria also set to star in the eight-episode season.
Cross’ Wexler is described as a scrappy, Bronx-born legendary producer who is one of the first to spot Franklin’s incredible talent and potential. He’s a street savvy music man with great ears who isn’t afraid to go into segregated clubs to find talented performers like Ray Charles and Wilson Pickett. He even coined the term “rhythm and blues.” He poached Franklin from Columbia to Atlantic Records and works with her from 1966-79 during which time she records some of her most iconic hits.
Cross will star as music producer Jerry Wexler. Cynthia Erivo is set to play Franklin, with Courtney B. Vance, Malcolm Barrett, Patrice Covington, Kimberly Hébert Gregory, Rebecca Naomi Jones, and Sanai Victoria also set to star in the eight-episode season.
Cross’ Wexler is described as a scrappy, Bronx-born legendary producer who is one of the first to spot Franklin’s incredible talent and potential. He’s a street savvy music man with great ears who isn’t afraid to go into segregated clubs to find talented performers like Ray Charles and Wilson Pickett. He even coined the term “rhythm and blues.” He poached Franklin from Columbia to Atlantic Records and works with her from 1966-79 during which time she records some of her most iconic hits.
- 11/20/2019
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Courtney B. Vance, an Emmy winner for his performance as Johnnie Cochran in FX’s The People V. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story, is set to star opposite Cynthia Erivo in Genius: Aretha, the next installment of Nat Geo’s popular anthology series, from Imagine Television and Fox 21 TV Studios.
Billed as the first-ever, definitive and only authorized scripted limited series on the life of Franklin, Genius: Aretha will begin production in December for a spring 2020 premiere on National Geographic channels in 172 countries and 43 languages.
Vance joins as Aretha’s (Erivo) father, C.L. Franklin, an influential reverend and civil rights activist known as the “Million Dollar Voice.” A star in his own right, C.L.’s legendary sermons were published and sold in record stores and broadcast on a weekly radio show, and he booked national ministry tours and public appearances. C.L. had a close but fraught relationship...
Billed as the first-ever, definitive and only authorized scripted limited series on the life of Franklin, Genius: Aretha will begin production in December for a spring 2020 premiere on National Geographic channels in 172 countries and 43 languages.
Vance joins as Aretha’s (Erivo) father, C.L. Franklin, an influential reverend and civil rights activist known as the “Million Dollar Voice.” A star in his own right, C.L.’s legendary sermons were published and sold in record stores and broadcast on a weekly radio show, and he booked national ministry tours and public appearances. C.L. had a close but fraught relationship...
- 11/7/2019
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Courtney B. Vance has joined the cast of the upcoming third season of “Genius” at Nat Geo, which will focus on Aretha Franklin.
Vance will star as Aretha’s father C.L. Franklin. Cynthia Erivo is set to play Aretha, with Malcolm Barrett, Patrice Covington, Kimberly Hébert Gregory, Rebecca Naomi Jones, and Sanai Victoria also set to star in the eight-episode season. Suzan-Lori Parks serves as showrunner and executive producer with Anthony Hemingway executive producing and directing. The season is slated to debut in the spring.
C.L. Franklin is described as an influential reverend and civil rights activist known as the “Million Dollar Voice.” A star in his own right, C.L.’s legendary sermons were published and sold in record stores and broadcast on a weekly radio show, and he booked national ministry tours and public appearances. C.L. had a close but fraught relationship with his daughter and supported her throughout her career,...
Vance will star as Aretha’s father C.L. Franklin. Cynthia Erivo is set to play Aretha, with Malcolm Barrett, Patrice Covington, Kimberly Hébert Gregory, Rebecca Naomi Jones, and Sanai Victoria also set to star in the eight-episode season. Suzan-Lori Parks serves as showrunner and executive producer with Anthony Hemingway executive producing and directing. The season is slated to debut in the spring.
C.L. Franklin is described as an influential reverend and civil rights activist known as the “Million Dollar Voice.” A star in his own right, C.L.’s legendary sermons were published and sold in record stores and broadcast on a weekly radio show, and he booked national ministry tours and public appearances. C.L. had a close but fraught relationship with his daughter and supported her throughout her career,...
- 11/7/2019
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
In today’s roundup, National Geographic announced the ensemble cast joining “Genius: Aretha” and Comedy Central has ordered eight episodes of Bobby Moynihan’s digital series “Loafy.”
Casting
Malcolm Barrett, Patrice Covington (“The Color Purple”), Kimberly Hébert Gregory (“Vice Principals”), Rebecca Naomi Jones (“The Big Sick”), Sanai Victoria (“Black-ish”) have been cast alongside Cynthia Erivo in National Geographic’s “Genius: Aretha.” Also, Emmy, Golden Globe and BAFTA TV award-winner Anthony Hemingway joined the anthology series as executive producer and pilot director.
Quinn Copeland, Lauren Donzis, Oliver De Los Santos and Noah Cottrell have been cast as series regulars in Peacock’s “Punky Brewster” pilot. From Ucp and Universal Television, the multi-camera/hybrid continuation of the ’80s sitcom follows Punky (Soleil Moon Frye), now a single mother of three trying to get her life back on track when she meets Izzy (Copeland), a young girl who reminds her a lot of her younger self.
Casting
Malcolm Barrett, Patrice Covington (“The Color Purple”), Kimberly Hébert Gregory (“Vice Principals”), Rebecca Naomi Jones (“The Big Sick”), Sanai Victoria (“Black-ish”) have been cast alongside Cynthia Erivo in National Geographic’s “Genius: Aretha.” Also, Emmy, Golden Globe and BAFTA TV award-winner Anthony Hemingway joined the anthology series as executive producer and pilot director.
Quinn Copeland, Lauren Donzis, Oliver De Los Santos and Noah Cottrell have been cast as series regulars in Peacock’s “Punky Brewster” pilot. From Ucp and Universal Television, the multi-camera/hybrid continuation of the ’80s sitcom follows Punky (Soleil Moon Frye), now a single mother of three trying to get her life back on track when she meets Izzy (Copeland), a young girl who reminds her a lot of her younger self.
- 10/28/2019
- by BreAnna Bell
- Variety Film + TV
Timeless vet Malcolm Barrett is getting hitched to one of music’s biggest icons: The actor will co-star in National Geographic’s Aretha Franklin installment of the anthology series Genius as the singer’s first husband and business manager Ted White.
Also joining the cast are Patrice Covington (Broadway’s The Color Purple) and Rebecca Naomi Jones (Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll) as Aretha’s sisters Erma and Carolyn, Kimberly Hébert Gregory (Vice Principals) as Ruth Bowen, the head of a successful black-owned agency, and Sanai Victoria (No Good Nick) as young Aretha.
More from TVLineBatwoman and Nancy Drew...
Also joining the cast are Patrice Covington (Broadway’s The Color Purple) and Rebecca Naomi Jones (Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll) as Aretha’s sisters Erma and Carolyn, Kimberly Hébert Gregory (Vice Principals) as Ruth Bowen, the head of a successful black-owned agency, and Sanai Victoria (No Good Nick) as young Aretha.
More from TVLineBatwoman and Nancy Drew...
- 10/28/2019
- TVLine.com
Exclusive: Malcolm Barrett, Patrice Covington (The Color Purple), Kimberly Hébert Gregory (Vice Principals), Rebecca Naomi Jones (The Big Sick) and Sanai Victoria (Black-ish) are set to co-star opposite Cynthia Erivo in Genius: Aretha, the next installment of Nat Geo’s popular anthology series, from Imagine Television and Fox 21 TV Studios. Additionally, Anthony Hemingway has been tapped to executive produce and direct the pilot episode.
Billed as the first-ever, definitive and only authorized scripted limited series on the life of Franklin, Genius: Aretha will begin production in December for a spring 2020 premiere on National Geographic channels in 172 countries and 43 languages.
Barrett will play Ted White, Aretha’s (Erivo) first husband and business manager, who develops relationships with songwriters and producers and picks some of her biggest hits. But as Aretha gains fame, White’s heavy drinking and volatile behavior ends their marriage.
Billed as the first-ever, definitive and only authorized scripted limited series on the life of Franklin, Genius: Aretha will begin production in December for a spring 2020 premiere on National Geographic channels in 172 countries and 43 languages.
Barrett will play Ted White, Aretha’s (Erivo) first husband and business manager, who develops relationships with songwriters and producers and picks some of her biggest hits. But as Aretha gains fame, White’s heavy drinking and volatile behavior ends their marriage.
- 10/28/2019
- by Nellie Andreeva and Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Vulture Watch
Can Curtis and Ella finally sit back and relax? Has The Paynes TV show been cancelled or renewed for a second season on Own? The television vulture is watching all the latest cancellation and renewal news, so this page is the place to track the status of The Paynes season two. Bookmark it, or subscribe for the latest updates. Remember, the television vulture is watching your shows. Are you?
What's This TV Show About?
A scripted Own comedy series, The Paynes stars Cassi Davis Patton, Lavan Davis, Jackée Harry, Stephanie Charles, Markice Moore, Jd McCrary, Sanai Victoria, and Anthony O. Dalton. The sitcom centers on Ella and Curtis Payne (Davis Patton and Davis). He’s a somewhat brash, retired fire chief, while she’s a patient, long-suffering homemaker. Retirement isn’t all smooth sailing for them, and amidst the laughter they experience plenty of lows along...
Can Curtis and Ella finally sit back and relax? Has The Paynes TV show been cancelled or renewed for a second season on Own? The television vulture is watching all the latest cancellation and renewal news, so this page is the place to track the status of The Paynes season two. Bookmark it, or subscribe for the latest updates. Remember, the television vulture is watching your shows. Are you?
What's This TV Show About?
A scripted Own comedy series, The Paynes stars Cassi Davis Patton, Lavan Davis, Jackée Harry, Stephanie Charles, Markice Moore, Jd McCrary, Sanai Victoria, and Anthony O. Dalton. The sitcom centers on Ella and Curtis Payne (Davis Patton and Davis). He’s a somewhat brash, retired fire chief, while she’s a patient, long-suffering homemaker. Retirement isn’t all smooth sailing for them, and amidst the laughter they experience plenty of lows along...
- 5/4/2019
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
Own's original scripted programming has largely revolved around dramas, and some of them have done quite well on the smaller cable network. While Tyler Perry's For Better or Worse has ended its first run, now the prolific creator is bringing some laughter to the Oprah Winfrey Network, with a spinoff of his long-lived sitcom, Tyler Perry's House of Payne. Is the audience ready for more laughs with this family? Will The Paynes be cancelled or renewed for season two? Stay tuned. A comedy, The Paynes TV show stars Cassi Davis Patton, Lavan Davis, Jackée Harry, Stephanie Charles, Markice Moore, Jd McCrary, Sanai Victoria, and Anthony O. Dalton. The Own TV series centers on Ella and Curtis Payne (Davis Patton and Davis). He’s a somewhat brash, retired fire chief, while she’s a patient, long-suffering homemaker. Retirement isn’t all smooth...
- 4/24/2018
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
How much do you enjoy Curtis and Ella's retirement during the first season of The Paynes TV show on Own? As we all know, the Nielsen ratings typically play a big role in determining whether the TV show The Paynes is cancelled or renewed for season two. Unfortunately, most of us do not live in Nielsen households. Because many viewers feel frustration when their viewing habits and opinions aren't considered, we'd like to offer you the chance to rate all of The Paynes season one episodes below. An Own sitcom, The Paynes stars Cassi Davis Patton, Lavan Davis, Jackée Harry, Stephanie Charles, Markice Moore, Jd McCrary, Sanai Victoria, and Anthony O. Dalton. The comedy centers on Ella and Curtis Payne (Davis Patton and Davis). He’s a somewhat brash, retired fire chief, while she’s a patient, long-suffering homemaker. Retirement isn’t all smooth sailing...
- 3/10/2018
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
Network: Own. Episodes: Ongoing (half-hour). Seasons: Ongoing. TV show dates: January 16, 2018 — present. Series status: Has not been cancelled. Performers include: Cassi Davis-Patton, Lavan Davis, Jackée Harry, Stephanie Charles, Markice Moore, Jd McCrary, Sanai Victoria, and Anthony O. Dalton. TV show description: A spinoff to Tyler Perry's House of Payne, The Paynes TV show centers on Ella and Curtis Payne (Davis-Patton and Davis). He's a somewhat brash, retired fire chief, while she's a patient, long-suffering homemaker. Retirement isn't all smooth sailing for them, and they experience plenty of lows along with the highs. After a death in the family, Ella and Curtis travel to Florida, and Curtis ends up getting drawn into a real estate...
- 1/17/2018
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
The Oprah Winfrey Network has more Tyler Perry coming to a TV near you. Today, Own announced The Paynes TV show, a spinoff of Perry's cancelled House of Payne TV series, will premiere on Tuesday, January 16, 2018 at 10:00pm, with two back-to-back half-hour episodes. It will then settle into its regular timeslot beginning Saturday, January 20th at 9:00pm Et/Pt. An Own scripted comedy, The Paynes stars Cassi Davis and Lavan Davis as Cassi Davis and Lavan Davis, as they adjust to the retired way of life. The cast also includes Jackée Harry, Stephanie Charles, Markice Moore, Jd McCrary, Sanai Victoria, and Anthony O. Dalton. Read More…...
- 11/22/2017
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
Stars: Natalie Brown, Jonathan Watton, Peter DaCunha, Melanie Lynskey, Seth Duhame, Sanai Victoria, Casey Adams, Breeda Wool, Angela Trimbur, Christina Kirk, Kyle Allen, Mike Doyle | Directed by Roxanne Benjamin, Karyn Kusama, Annie Clark, Jovanka Vuckovic
Genres like horror survive by having many voices to tell their tales. There needs to be imagination, and there needs to be different perspectives to show that people are frightened by different things, or in some cases the same thing. This is where Xx comes in, an anthology of horror written and directed by women.
In Xx we are given four stories, each completely separate from each other. The first is The Box, which is arguably the best of the four, then The Birthday Party, Don’t Fall, and finally Her Only Living Son.
The Box is interesting because it uses mystery in an artful way. When Susan’s (Natalie Brown) son Danny (Peter DaCunha...
Genres like horror survive by having many voices to tell their tales. There needs to be imagination, and there needs to be different perspectives to show that people are frightened by different things, or in some cases the same thing. This is where Xx comes in, an anthology of horror written and directed by women.
In Xx we are given four stories, each completely separate from each other. The first is The Box, which is arguably the best of the four, then The Birthday Party, Don’t Fall, and finally Her Only Living Son.
The Box is interesting because it uses mystery in an artful way. When Susan’s (Natalie Brown) son Danny (Peter DaCunha...
- 5/10/2017
- by Paul Metcalf
- Nerdly
Idina Menzel and Nia Long star in the powerful story of lifelong friendship in an all-new remake of the classic movie when Beaches arrives on DVD at Walmart on May 9 from Lionsgate.
Relive the powerful story of lifelong friendship in an all-new remake of the classic movie when Beaches arrives on DVD at Walmart on May 9 from Lionsgate. Tony Award® winner Idina Menzel and NAACP Image Award Winner Nia Long star as two very different women who share an unexpected friendship that, even with its ups and downs, lasts for decades. This new version of the 1988 film includes performances by Menzel of iconic songs from the original movie such as “Wind Beneath My Wings” and “The Glory of Love,” in addition to Menzel’s new original song, “Last Time.” The Beaches DVD will be available at Walmart for the suggested retail price of $14.98.
Official Synopsis
In this contemporary remake, Beaches...
Relive the powerful story of lifelong friendship in an all-new remake of the classic movie when Beaches arrives on DVD at Walmart on May 9 from Lionsgate. Tony Award® winner Idina Menzel and NAACP Image Award Winner Nia Long star as two very different women who share an unexpected friendship that, even with its ups and downs, lasts for decades. This new version of the 1988 film includes performances by Menzel of iconic songs from the original movie such as “Wind Beneath My Wings” and “The Glory of Love,” in addition to Menzel’s new original song, “Last Time.” The Beaches DVD will be available at Walmart for the suggested retail price of $14.98.
Official Synopsis
In this contemporary remake, Beaches...
- 4/24/2017
- by Tom Stockman
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
MaryAnn’s quick take… My anger that women filmmakers doing a horror anthology is seen as a novelty almost overshadows my disappointment that these short films aren’t very scary. I’m “biast” (pro): I’m desperate for movies by and about women
I’m “biast” (con): I’m not much of a horror fan
(what is this about? see my critic’s minifesto)
I’m looking forward to the time when the work of four women filmmakers coming together in a horror anthology is not considered a novelty, but we do not live in that world yet. So that is the motif that connects the segments of Xx: they were written and directed by women. (Imagine how ridiculous it would be to try to sell an anthology on the fact that all the segments were made by men!) I’m always glad to see women filmmakers working,...
I’m “biast” (con): I’m not much of a horror fan
(what is this about? see my critic’s minifesto)
I’m looking forward to the time when the work of four women filmmakers coming together in a horror anthology is not considered a novelty, but we do not live in that world yet. So that is the motif that connects the segments of Xx: they were written and directed by women. (Imagine how ridiculous it would be to try to sell an anthology on the fact that all the segments were made by men!) I’m always glad to see women filmmakers working,...
- 2/17/2017
- by MaryAnn Johanson
- www.flickfilosopher.com
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