Can robots have a coming of age story? Well, Optimus Prime, Megatron and their assembled mechanical factions are alien robots known as Transformers, so, you know, anything is possible. And indeed, Transformers One takes us back to a time before sides had been taken in the war between the Autobots and Decepticons, when Optimus was known as Orion Pax, and Megatron went by the slightly less imposing moniker of D-16.
The animated adventure, directed by Toy Story 4's Josh Cooley, harkens back to the 1986 Transformers: The Movie, but is set even further back in time, when Cybertron holds secrets and threats – compelling Orion, D-16, B-127 (Aka Bumblebee) and their friend Elita-1 to become what they're supposed to be. They're about to go through a – pun entirely intended – transformational experience.
With the first trailer now online, Empire spoke to Cooley about taking on the challenge of directing a new Transformers story,...
The animated adventure, directed by Toy Story 4's Josh Cooley, harkens back to the 1986 Transformers: The Movie, but is set even further back in time, when Cybertron holds secrets and threats – compelling Orion, D-16, B-127 (Aka Bumblebee) and their friend Elita-1 to become what they're supposed to be. They're about to go through a – pun entirely intended – transformational experience.
With the first trailer now online, Empire spoke to Cooley about taking on the challenge of directing a new Transformers story,...
- 4/18/2024
- by James White
- Empire - Movies
After years of the Michael Bay Transformers movies (plus Bumblebee and last year's Rise Of The Beasts), it's time to turn back the clock to the earlier days of the heroes — and villains — of Cybertron. The Robots before they were In Disguise. Make way for Transformers One, a new animated entry in the canon, directed by Toy Story 4's Josh Cooley.
Transformers One centres on Orion Pax, the future Optimus Prime (here voiced by Chris Hemsworth) and Brian Tyree Henry's D-16, the 'bot who will one day be known as Megatron. As even the most entry-level Transformers fan will know, the pair become sworn enemies – but here they, along with B-127 and Elita (Scarlett Johansson), are friends who will have to embrace their destiny to save their home planet, all the while unaware that one of them will one day strive to dominate it.
The scope and scale...
Transformers One centres on Orion Pax, the future Optimus Prime (here voiced by Chris Hemsworth) and Brian Tyree Henry's D-16, the 'bot who will one day be known as Megatron. As even the most entry-level Transformers fan will know, the pair become sworn enemies – but here they, along with B-127 and Elita (Scarlett Johansson), are friends who will have to embrace their destiny to save their home planet, all the while unaware that one of them will one day strive to dominate it.
The scope and scale...
- 4/18/2024
- by James White
- Empire - Movies
"Transformers One" has released its first trailer, finally giving the public the peek that CinemaCon attendees got last week. Directed by Josh Cooley, the film looks to offer a breezy and colorful animated adventure akin to the "Spider-Verse" films.
Does the title "Transformers One" sound like a misnomer to you? Audiences have already been subjected to eight of these movies and they're infamously not good ("Bumblebee" is innocent and 1986's "The Transformers: The Movie" barely skirts by on nostalgia despite how cynical it was). Well, you see, the ninth "Transformers" movie will be going back to the beginning. Set on Cybertron, the home planet of the Robots in Disguise, the film is set before the Transformers got to Earth, before the Autobots and Decepticons went to war, and before Optimus Prime and Megatron had those names.
The 2007 "Transformers" movie (by far the most enjoyable of the ones Michael Bay...
Does the title "Transformers One" sound like a misnomer to you? Audiences have already been subjected to eight of these movies and they're infamously not good ("Bumblebee" is innocent and 1986's "The Transformers: The Movie" barely skirts by on nostalgia despite how cynical it was). Well, you see, the ninth "Transformers" movie will be going back to the beginning. Set on Cybertron, the home planet of the Robots in Disguise, the film is set before the Transformers got to Earth, before the Autobots and Decepticons went to war, and before Optimus Prime and Megatron had those names.
The 2007 "Transformers" movie (by far the most enjoyable of the ones Michael Bay...
- 4/18/2024
- by Devin Meenan
- Slash Film
Autobots, assemble: Paramount has released a trailer for “Transformers One,” the animated prequel film led by the voices of Chris Hemsworth, Brian Tyree Henry and Scarlett Johansson.
Hemsworth voices young Optimus Prime, when he was just known as Orion Pax. Henry is D-16, before he became Optimus’ rival Megatron. The trailer shows the two starting out as simple worker bots, unable to transform into anything. But soon they gain the ability to change into vehicles and gain weapons, as a battle against a mysterious, plant-like villain unfolds on the Transformers’ home planet of Cybertron.
Other cast members include Johansson as Elita, Keegan-Michael Key as Bumblebee, Jon Hamm as Sentinel Prime and Laurence Fishburne as Alpha Trion. Hemsworth and Henry introduced a first look at the prequel film April 11 at CinemaCon.
The franchise first hit the big screen with an animated movie in 1986 before director Michael Bay launched a live-action series...
Hemsworth voices young Optimus Prime, when he was just known as Orion Pax. Henry is D-16, before he became Optimus’ rival Megatron. The trailer shows the two starting out as simple worker bots, unable to transform into anything. But soon they gain the ability to change into vehicles and gain weapons, as a battle against a mysterious, plant-like villain unfolds on the Transformers’ home planet of Cybertron.
Other cast members include Johansson as Elita, Keegan-Michael Key as Bumblebee, Jon Hamm as Sentinel Prime and Laurence Fishburne as Alpha Trion. Hemsworth and Henry introduced a first look at the prequel film April 11 at CinemaCon.
The franchise first hit the big screen with an animated movie in 1986 before director Michael Bay launched a live-action series...
- 4/18/2024
- by Selena Kuznikov
- Variety Film + TV
Michael Bay’s influence on the Transformers franchise is undeniable. Since the series’ debut with the 2007 film, Transformers, Bay’s involvement has sparked both praise and dispute among critics and fans. The 2017 film Transformers: The Last Knight, marked the end of his directorial contributions to the franchise.
The Transformers franchise
Subsequently, filmmakers like Travis Knight and Steven Caple Jr. have carried the torch forward with movies like Bumblebee and the 2023 film Transformers: Rise of the Beasts. Despite not directing the latter, Bay’s influence loomed large, as revealed by Caple Jr., who acknowledged his guidance and insight in shaping the 2023 film.
Steven Caple Jr. Highlighted Michael Bay’s Contribution to Rise of the Beasts
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, filmmaker Steven Caple Jr. reflected on seeking advice from Michael Bay and Travis Knight for the 2023 film Transformers: Rise of the Beasts. He acknowledged the value of seeking guidance from those with prior experience.
The Transformers franchise
Subsequently, filmmakers like Travis Knight and Steven Caple Jr. have carried the torch forward with movies like Bumblebee and the 2023 film Transformers: Rise of the Beasts. Despite not directing the latter, Bay’s influence loomed large, as revealed by Caple Jr., who acknowledged his guidance and insight in shaping the 2023 film.
Steven Caple Jr. Highlighted Michael Bay’s Contribution to Rise of the Beasts
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, filmmaker Steven Caple Jr. reflected on seeking advice from Michael Bay and Travis Knight for the 2023 film Transformers: Rise of the Beasts. He acknowledged the value of seeking guidance from those with prior experience.
- 4/15/2024
- by Laxmi Rajput
- FandomWire
Since 2007, the "Transformers" movies have been A) Primarily set on Earth (excepting prologues in "Dark of the Moon" and "Bumblebee" showing the war for planet Cybertron) and B) Live-action, using CGI to integrate the Autobots and Decepticons into real settings. Director Josh Cooley ("Toy Story 4") is about to change that with "Transformers One." /Film's Ryan Scott, who attended the Paramount Pictures panel at CinemaCon 2024, got an early look at the upcoming animated movie.
"Transformers One" is a prequel set before the war when the Autobots and Decepticons were still one people. Since the movie is set entirely on Cybertron with only robot characters, it makes sense to tell the story through animation. "Transformers" is no stranger to prequels -- check out the comic series "The War Within," High Moon Studios' video game duology "War for Cybertron" and "Fall of Cybertron," and more. Still, this is new territory for the films.
"Transformers One" is a prequel set before the war when the Autobots and Decepticons were still one people. Since the movie is set entirely on Cybertron with only robot characters, it makes sense to tell the story through animation. "Transformers" is no stranger to prequels -- check out the comic series "The War Within," High Moon Studios' video game duology "War for Cybertron" and "Fall of Cybertron," and more. Still, this is new territory for the films.
- 4/11/2024
- by Devin Meenan
- Slash Film
Wednesday night was the end of the road for not one, but two “Masked Singer” contestants, marking the first double elimination of the season. And so, fans had to say goodbye to both Koala and Lovebird.
The theme of the night was “Transformers,” with contestants singing songs that were featured in the movie franchise. For Lovebird, that meant a performance of the Goo Goo Dolls’ “All That You Are,” which appeared on the “Transformers: Dark of the Moon” soundtrack.
After that, Koala performed “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” by Tears for Fears, which was part of the “Bumblebee” soundtrack.
In the end, Lovebird was the first to be eliminated, and was unmasked to reveal former “The Bachelor” star Colton Underwood. And, apparently, his appearance on the show has been a long time coming.
“This was like, the third or fourth time my team had been talking to possibly do this,...
The theme of the night was “Transformers,” with contestants singing songs that were featured in the movie franchise. For Lovebird, that meant a performance of the Goo Goo Dolls’ “All That You Are,” which appeared on the “Transformers: Dark of the Moon” soundtrack.
After that, Koala performed “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” by Tears for Fears, which was part of the “Bumblebee” soundtrack.
In the end, Lovebird was the first to be eliminated, and was unmasked to reveal former “The Bachelor” star Colton Underwood. And, apparently, his appearance on the show has been a long time coming.
“This was like, the third or fourth time my team had been talking to possibly do this,...
- 4/11/2024
- by Andi Ortiz
- The Wrap
Hailee Steinfeld is no stranger to the supernatural, having voiced Gwen Stacy in the immensely popular animated Spider-Man movies — Spider-Man: Into the Spider-verse and Spider-Man: Across the Spider-verse — and fighting alongside Transformers in the spin-off prequel Bumblebee. She also was teased to return to the MCU in the post-credits scene of The Marvels. Now, the actress is set to star in Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan’s secret genre project. Earlier, it was reported that Jack O’Connell of Unbroken is in talks to play the villain. Delroy Lindo is also attached and there’s said to be “a musical element” to his character. Recently, Loki‘s Wunmi Mosaku was also reported to have joined the project.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, leaked details indicate that Mosaku may be playing Jordan’s love interest while O’Connell is a villain with ties to the KKK. While the details of the project remain tight-lipped,...
According to The Hollywood Reporter, leaked details indicate that Mosaku may be playing Jordan’s love interest while O’Connell is a villain with ties to the KKK. While the details of the project remain tight-lipped,...
- 4/10/2024
- by EJ Tangonan
- JoBlo.com
Eiza González is a Mexican actress and singer who has achieved widespread success in Hollywood. Born in Mexico City in 1990, Eiza began her career as a teenager starring in several popular Mexican telenovelas. This early exposure helped launch her career, leading to her first American role in the teen drama series Lola: Érase una vez.
Eiza González
Eiza had her major breakthrough playing the lead role in the action film Baby Driver in 2017. Her performance earned her critical praise and marked her transition into Hollywood blockbusters. Since then, she has starred in high-profile films like Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw, Godzilla vs. Kong, and Ambulance.
In addition to her acting, Eiza has pursued a music career, releasing her debut album Contracorriente in 2009. She has also modeled for brands like Louis Vuitton and landed endorsements with L’Oréal Paris. With her diverse talents and ever-growing fame, Eiza has become one of...
Eiza González
Eiza had her major breakthrough playing the lead role in the action film Baby Driver in 2017. Her performance earned her critical praise and marked her transition into Hollywood blockbusters. Since then, she has starred in high-profile films like Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw, Godzilla vs. Kong, and Ambulance.
In addition to her acting, Eiza has pursued a music career, releasing her debut album Contracorriente in 2009. She has also modeled for brands like Louis Vuitton and landed endorsements with L’Oréal Paris. With her diverse talents and ever-growing fame, Eiza has become one of...
- 3/21/2024
- by Penelope H. Fritz
- Martin Cid Magazine - Movies
Oscars 2024 just got a little Nsfw after John Cena walked onto the stage naked to present the Best Costume Design category. Cena’s point was to prove why costumes were so important and his Barbie co-star Margot Robbie couldn’t stop blushing and laughing at his hilarious antics. But fans also noticed how well-maintained the WWE star’s body was. His clearly demarcated abs were one of the highlights of this Oscar evening.
John Cena in Ricky Stanicky
In comparison, another WWE wrestler-turned-actor could never dream of having the new Oscar streaker’s abs. Dwayne Johnson, who is known for his muscular, well-toned body in Hollywood, cannot have a six-pack due to medical reasons.
John Cena’s Streaker Moment At the Oscars Has Everyone Drooling Over His Six-Pack John Cena at the 96th Academy Awards
Families watching the Oscar night on television were in for a gasping moment when John...
John Cena in Ricky Stanicky
In comparison, another WWE wrestler-turned-actor could never dream of having the new Oscar streaker’s abs. Dwayne Johnson, who is known for his muscular, well-toned body in Hollywood, cannot have a six-pack due to medical reasons.
John Cena’s Streaker Moment At the Oscars Has Everyone Drooling Over His Six-Pack John Cena at the 96th Academy Awards
Families watching the Oscar night on television were in for a gasping moment when John...
- 3/11/2024
- by Hashim Asraff
- FandomWire
The transition from wrestlers to actors has become a prevailing trend in Hollywood, with notable figures like John Cena, Dwayne Johnson, and Dave Bautista seamlessly crossing over into the realm of acting. This evolution presents WWE fans with a delightful yet challenging dilemma: selecting a favorite actor among these accomplished individuals.
Whether it’s their prowess in the wrestling ring or their captivating performances on the silver screen, each of these individuals has demonstrated remarkable skill and versatility.
John Cena’s Peacemaker in Mortal Kombat 1
Despite the exceptional abilities of all three, there seems to be prevailing favoritism towards Dave Bautista, best known for his role in Guardians of the Galaxy. According to numerous WWE enthusiasts, Bautista’s on-screen charisma goes beyond mere physicality, striking a chord with viewers and securing his position as the epitome of a wrestler-turned-actor.
Dave Bautista Outshines John Cena and Dwayne Johnson Beyond the Wrestling...
Whether it’s their prowess in the wrestling ring or their captivating performances on the silver screen, each of these individuals has demonstrated remarkable skill and versatility.
John Cena’s Peacemaker in Mortal Kombat 1
Despite the exceptional abilities of all three, there seems to be prevailing favoritism towards Dave Bautista, best known for his role in Guardians of the Galaxy. According to numerous WWE enthusiasts, Bautista’s on-screen charisma goes beyond mere physicality, striking a chord with viewers and securing his position as the epitome of a wrestler-turned-actor.
Dave Bautista Outshines John Cena and Dwayne Johnson Beyond the Wrestling...
- 2/27/2024
- by Pritha Roy
- FandomWire
Emmy and BAFTA nominee Dominique Fishback is set to receive the Culture Certified award at The Creative Collective’s inaugural Creative Class celebration.
The Culture Certified award will honor both established and emerging Black talent and seeks to recognize individuals whose contributions “significantly impact, influence, and shape cultural landscapes at large.” The special award is presented by the Create Collective (Ccnyc) in partnership with Prime Video’s Culture Rated initiative, which champions Black creatives, perspectives, and community across social media, on Prime Video and with in-person events, like CultureCon.
The prize marks the latest accolade for Fishback, who experienced a breakout year in 2023. She earned her first Emmy nomination for her buzzworthy performance as Dre in the Prime Video series “Swarm.” Fishback also earned nods from the Indie Spirit Awards, Gotham Awards, the NAACP Image Awards and more for her transformative work in the psychological comic thriller from co-creators Janine Nabers and Donald Glover.
The Culture Certified award will honor both established and emerging Black talent and seeks to recognize individuals whose contributions “significantly impact, influence, and shape cultural landscapes at large.” The special award is presented by the Create Collective (Ccnyc) in partnership with Prime Video’s Culture Rated initiative, which champions Black creatives, perspectives, and community across social media, on Prime Video and with in-person events, like CultureCon.
The prize marks the latest accolade for Fishback, who experienced a breakout year in 2023. She earned her first Emmy nomination for her buzzworthy performance as Dre in the Prime Video series “Swarm.” Fishback also earned nods from the Indie Spirit Awards, Gotham Awards, the NAACP Image Awards and more for her transformative work in the psychological comic thriller from co-creators Janine Nabers and Donald Glover.
- 2/26/2024
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
The Star Wars franchise is coming to shoot a film entirely in California for the first time with The Mandalorian & Grogu movie, and the Golden State is paying out its weight in tax incentive gold to have the bounty hunter saga made within state lines.
To be specific, that is a total tonnage of $21,755,000 in conditional tax credits for the Jon Favreaudirected film. With a new Fantastic Four, Gladiator 2 and a new season of The Last of Us on his dance card, it is unclear right now if SAG Award winner Pedro Pascal will be resuming his role of Din Djarin and teaming back up with the charming Baby Yoda for the Mandalorian movie.
What is known is that $21,755,000 in tax credits is one of the biggest allocations in the California Film Commission run program’s history.
Put another way, Mandalorian & Grogu won’t be getting the $22.4 million...
To be specific, that is a total tonnage of $21,755,000 in conditional tax credits for the Jon Favreaudirected film. With a new Fantastic Four, Gladiator 2 and a new season of The Last of Us on his dance card, it is unclear right now if SAG Award winner Pedro Pascal will be resuming his role of Din Djarin and teaming back up with the charming Baby Yoda for the Mandalorian movie.
What is known is that $21,755,000 in tax credits is one of the biggest allocations in the California Film Commission run program’s history.
Put another way, Mandalorian & Grogu won’t be getting the $22.4 million...
- 2/26/2024
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
John Cena stands as one of WWE’s most iconic performers, anchoring the company for over 15 years as its squeaky clean, do-gooder, poster child. But as Cena expands his acting pursuits, he recently revealed to Howard Stern that WWE’s creative team barred him from ever embracing a heel turn. This refusal to explore his character’s dark side restricted Cena creatively and may have hindered engaging new feuds and story angles that could have thrilled fans.
John Cena Admits WWE Limited His Character Growth John Cena in Ricky Stanicky
John Cena recently made a candid confession about his iconic WWE tenure that may dishearten loyal fans. In an interview on The Howard Stern Show, Cena acknowledged creative constraints that prevented him from turning heels or exploring more complexity.
“I didn’t have a lot of wild creative freedom in WWE. I had complete creative freedom over how I could curate my character,...
John Cena Admits WWE Limited His Character Growth John Cena in Ricky Stanicky
John Cena recently made a candid confession about his iconic WWE tenure that may dishearten loyal fans. In an interview on The Howard Stern Show, Cena acknowledged creative constraints that prevented him from turning heels or exploring more complexity.
“I didn’t have a lot of wild creative freedom in WWE. I had complete creative freedom over how I could curate my character,...
- 2/25/2024
- by Nivedita Dubey
- FandomWire
John Cena’s crazy marketing stunt has prompted some hilarious meme content on the internet. The WWE wrestler-turned-actor recently shared that he has joined the adult-themed subscription platform, OnlyFans. Fans initially couldn’t believe the news, but those who clicked on the link Cena shared found a free page under the name Ricky Stanicky. They quickly realized that it was all a promotional tactic for his upcoming film with Zac Efron, titled Ricky Stanicky.
Zac Efron and John Cena in Ricky Stanicky
John Cena was last seen in Matthew Vaughn’s spy thriller Argylle. Before that, he played Ken Merman in a brief cameo in the blockbuster hit, Barbie. The trailer for Ricky Stanicky recently dropped online, suggesting a full-on comedy film.
Fans Have Hilarious Replies To John Cena’s OnlyFans Account John Cena created an OnlyFans account to promote Ricky Stanicky
Zac Efron and John Cena‘s film, Ricky Stanicky,...
Zac Efron and John Cena in Ricky Stanicky
John Cena was last seen in Matthew Vaughn’s spy thriller Argylle. Before that, he played Ken Merman in a brief cameo in the blockbuster hit, Barbie. The trailer for Ricky Stanicky recently dropped online, suggesting a full-on comedy film.
Fans Have Hilarious Replies To John Cena’s OnlyFans Account John Cena created an OnlyFans account to promote Ricky Stanicky
Zac Efron and John Cena‘s film, Ricky Stanicky,...
- 2/24/2024
- by Hashim Asraff
- FandomWire
Following Shia Labeouf’s departure from the Transformers franchise, Mark Wahlberg assumed the lead role in the sci-fi action series, appearing in two films within the franchise. The actor has shared that the reason he chose to do the movies was because of his kids, as he believed that these films would be less adult-oriented compared to his other projects, and would potentially capture his children’s interest.
Mark Wahlberg in Transformers: Age of Extinction
However, the actor had to reconsider the idea of introducing his children to the films during their formative years due to the concern of them being exposed to inappropriate language.
Mark Wahlberg Did Not Want His Kids to Watch Transformers Films
The Transformers franchise is widely regarded as a children’s franchise due to its origins as a line of toys aimed at younger audiences, first introduced by Hasbro in the 1980s. Mark Wahlberg, who...
Mark Wahlberg in Transformers: Age of Extinction
However, the actor had to reconsider the idea of introducing his children to the films during their formative years due to the concern of them being exposed to inappropriate language.
Mark Wahlberg Did Not Want His Kids to Watch Transformers Films
The Transformers franchise is widely regarded as a children’s franchise due to its origins as a line of toys aimed at younger audiences, first introduced by Hasbro in the 1980s. Mark Wahlberg, who...
- 2/20/2024
- by Laxmi Rajput
- FandomWire
‘Bumblebee’ helmer, Travis Knight, has entered into negotiations to jump on board the long-awaited live-action adaptation of ‘Masters of the Universe’.
Knight’s longtime collaborator, Chris Butler (co-directed ‘ParaNorman’ and wrote ‘Kubo and the Two Strings’), is also along for the ride, He has been brought on to rewrite the script. Over the years the project had drafts from David Callaham and Aaron and Adam Nee.
Escape Artists’ Todd Black and Jason Blumenthal, who have been with the project for decades, are producing along with Mattel’s Robbie Brenner.
Also in news – Ewan McGregor set for David Robert Mitchell’s mystery dinosaur movie
Rumour has it that Conan the Barbarian was the influence behind the initial He-Man toy and comics released by Mattel in 1982, the toy was such a major success Mattel soon turned the action figure into a children’s animated TV series.
By the time the animated series was developed,...
Knight’s longtime collaborator, Chris Butler (co-directed ‘ParaNorman’ and wrote ‘Kubo and the Two Strings’), is also along for the ride, He has been brought on to rewrite the script. Over the years the project had drafts from David Callaham and Aaron and Adam Nee.
Escape Artists’ Todd Black and Jason Blumenthal, who have been with the project for decades, are producing along with Mattel’s Robbie Brenner.
Also in news – Ewan McGregor set for David Robert Mitchell’s mystery dinosaur movie
Rumour has it that Conan the Barbarian was the influence behind the initial He-Man toy and comics released by Mattel in 1982, the toy was such a major success Mattel soon turned the action figure into a children’s animated TV series.
By the time the animated series was developed,...
- 2/15/2024
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
“Barbie” is a cultural phenomenon, grossing nearly $1.5 billion and racking up eight Oscar nominations, all while launching scores of catchphrases and memes.
So it’s understandable that Mattel, the company behind the iconic doll, is looking to capitalize on its cinematic success by developing dozens of movies based on its games and toys. Moviegoers can look forward to Barney, Bob the Builder and He-Man hitting the big screen in the not-so-distant future.
But as Hollywood raids toy store shelves to feed its insatiable hunger for IP, it’s worth noting that when it comes to this type of film, for every “Barbie”-sized smash there’s a “Battleship”-like bomb. With that in mind, here are some of the movies that Mattel has in the works.
Barney
Key creative: Daniel Kaluuya (producer and star)
Another Barbie? You may think you know Barney. But Kaluuya is here to say the purple...
So it’s understandable that Mattel, the company behind the iconic doll, is looking to capitalize on its cinematic success by developing dozens of movies based on its games and toys. Moviegoers can look forward to Barney, Bob the Builder and He-Man hitting the big screen in the not-so-distant future.
But as Hollywood raids toy store shelves to feed its insatiable hunger for IP, it’s worth noting that when it comes to this type of film, for every “Barbie”-sized smash there’s a “Battleship”-like bomb. With that in mind, here are some of the movies that Mattel has in the works.
Barney
Key creative: Daniel Kaluuya (producer and star)
Another Barbie? You may think you know Barney. But Kaluuya is here to say the purple...
- 2/15/2024
- by Brent Lang and Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
Amazon’s Masters Of The Universe film may finally have a director, with Bumblebee and Kubo And The Two Strings’ Travis Knight said to be in ‘final negotiations.’
Tinseltown trade outlets often talk about actors and filmmakers ‘circling’ movie projects and deals, as though they’re little kestrels hovering about looking for their lunch.
The kestrel in question here is Travis Knight, who most recently directed the Transformers spin-off Bumblebee for Paramount Pictures. According to Deadline’s exclusive, Knight’s in “final talks” with Amazon MGM Studios to direct the latest film adaptation of Masters Of The Universe, based on the 1980s animated series and toy line of the same name.
Knight clearly has strong ideas for the film, with Deadline’s sources saying the filmmaker showed up at the studio’s offices with a presentation which laid out his take on He-Man. That presentation impressed Amazon MGM bosses enough...
Tinseltown trade outlets often talk about actors and filmmakers ‘circling’ movie projects and deals, as though they’re little kestrels hovering about looking for their lunch.
The kestrel in question here is Travis Knight, who most recently directed the Transformers spin-off Bumblebee for Paramount Pictures. According to Deadline’s exclusive, Knight’s in “final talks” with Amazon MGM Studios to direct the latest film adaptation of Masters Of The Universe, based on the 1980s animated series and toy line of the same name.
Knight clearly has strong ideas for the film, with Deadline’s sources saying the filmmaker showed up at the studio’s offices with a presentation which laid out his take on He-Man. That presentation impressed Amazon MGM bosses enough...
- 2/14/2024
- by Ryan Lambie
- Film Stories
Travis Knight just may have the power.
The Laika CEO and part-time filmmaker is in early talks to direct the long-in-the-works live-action adaptation of Masters of the Universe for Amazon MGM Studios, The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed.
Knight isn’t coming alone. Chris Butler, a longtime Knight and Laika collaborator who wrote and co-directed ParaNorman and wrote Kubo and the Two Strings, among other projects, has been brought on to rewrite the script. Over the years the project had drafts from David Callaham and Aaron and Adam Nee.
Escape Artists’ Todd Black and Jason Blumenthal, who have been with the projects for decades, are producing along with Mattel’s Robbie Brenner.
Amazon MGM had no comment.
Hollywood has long been trying to get the toy line centered on Prince Adam, the young man who becomes the muscular He-Man once he gets the Power Sword in his hands and says the words,...
The Laika CEO and part-time filmmaker is in early talks to direct the long-in-the-works live-action adaptation of Masters of the Universe for Amazon MGM Studios, The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed.
Knight isn’t coming alone. Chris Butler, a longtime Knight and Laika collaborator who wrote and co-directed ParaNorman and wrote Kubo and the Two Strings, among other projects, has been brought on to rewrite the script. Over the years the project had drafts from David Callaham and Aaron and Adam Nee.
Escape Artists’ Todd Black and Jason Blumenthal, who have been with the projects for decades, are producing along with Mattel’s Robbie Brenner.
Amazon MGM had no comment.
Hollywood has long been trying to get the toy line centered on Prince Adam, the young man who becomes the muscular He-Man once he gets the Power Sword in his hands and says the words,...
- 2/13/2024
- by Borys Kit
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Here we go again. Another year is starting, which means it's time for the "He-Man and the Masters of the Universe" movie to get yet another director. Like so many projects stuck in developing hell, it seems like practically every director currently working in Hollywood has, at some point, been involved in this film.
Now, Deadline reports that Travis Knight — the director of "Bumblebee" and "Kubo and the Two Strings," founder and CEO of Laika, and son of Nike co-founder Phil Knight — is the latest name to be attached to the long-in-development "Masters of the Universe" movie from Mattel. The report specifically says he is in "final negotiations" to direct, yet the deal hasn't closed just yet as other elements of the film are still being figured out. Nevertheless, this is exciting news, and brings the project one step closer to actually getting made.
Knight is reportedly bringing along writer...
Now, Deadline reports that Travis Knight — the director of "Bumblebee" and "Kubo and the Two Strings," founder and CEO of Laika, and son of Nike co-founder Phil Knight — is the latest name to be attached to the long-in-development "Masters of the Universe" movie from Mattel. The report specifically says he is in "final negotiations" to direct, yet the deal hasn't closed just yet as other elements of the film are still being figured out. Nevertheless, this is exciting news, and brings the project one step closer to actually getting made.
Knight is reportedly bringing along writer...
- 2/13/2024
- by Rafael Motamayor
- Slash Film
Mattel’s Masters of the Universe movie hasn’t had the easiest path, but the long-in-development project has taken a big step forward as Deadline reports that Bumblebee director Travis Knight is in final negotiations to helm the movie.
Although Deadline cautions that the deal is still coming together, the report states that Knight was the only director in the mix to give an in-person presentation, which made him the top choice for the gig. Chris Butler will rewrite the script from the previous draft penned by David Callaham, Aaron and Adam Nee. The project was previously set up at Netflix, but the streaming service scrapped the project last summer. It was later reported that the movie could find a new home at Amazon MGM Studios, and according to Deadline, they’re now in final negotiations for the rights.
Related Twister 2: Dan Trachtenberg not directing the sequel
Aaron and...
Although Deadline cautions that the deal is still coming together, the report states that Knight was the only director in the mix to give an in-person presentation, which made him the top choice for the gig. Chris Butler will rewrite the script from the previous draft penned by David Callaham, Aaron and Adam Nee. The project was previously set up at Netflix, but the streaming service scrapped the project last summer. It was later reported that the movie could find a new home at Amazon MGM Studios, and according to Deadline, they’re now in final negotiations for the rights.
Related Twister 2: Dan Trachtenberg not directing the sequel
Aaron and...
- 2/13/2024
- by Kevin Fraser
- JoBlo.com
Exclusive: The long-in-development Masters of the Universe reimagining from Mattel looks to be gaining some momentum as sources tell Deadline that Travis Knight is in final negotiations to direct. Insiders say his deal has not closed and that other elements on the project are still coming together, but all signs are pointing to Knight being the top choice.
Chris Butler will rewrite the script from an initial draft written by David Callaham and Aaron & Adam Nee. Amazon MGM Studios in final negotiations for rights to the project, with Mattel’s Robbie Brenner and Escape Artists’ Todd Black and Jason Blumenthal producing.
Amazon MGM had no comment.
Knight is the President and CEO of Laika, the Portland-based animation studio best known for hit stop-motion films including Coraline and Missing Link. Although his focus has still been on animation in recent years — he helmed the 2016 toon feature Kubo and the Two Strings...
Chris Butler will rewrite the script from an initial draft written by David Callaham and Aaron & Adam Nee. Amazon MGM Studios in final negotiations for rights to the project, with Mattel’s Robbie Brenner and Escape Artists’ Todd Black and Jason Blumenthal producing.
Amazon MGM had no comment.
Knight is the President and CEO of Laika, the Portland-based animation studio best known for hit stop-motion films including Coraline and Missing Link. Although his focus has still been on animation in recent years — he helmed the 2016 toon feature Kubo and the Two Strings...
- 2/13/2024
- by Justin Kroll
- Deadline Film + TV
"Transformers" is a tricky thing to talk about. Your average moviegoer tends to enjoy the movies (at least up until 2017's "The Last Knight"), but people who use words like "cinema" and "art" when talking about movies kind of hate them. Things got better when Michael Bay finally vacated the director's chair, with 2018's "Bumblebee" ranking as easily the most acclaimed entry in the multi-billion-dollar franchise to date. Last year's "Transformers: Rise of the Beasts" tried to keep that new magic going and did so with mixed results. But there is at least one scene in the film that stands a cut above the rest, reminding us of what this franchise can be in its best moments.
It is perhaps not surprising that arguably the best moment in director Steven Caple Jr.'s "Rise of the Beasts" involves Bumblebee. Everyone's favorite little yellow Autobot has been the secret sauce in...
It is perhaps not surprising that arguably the best moment in director Steven Caple Jr.'s "Rise of the Beasts" involves Bumblebee. Everyone's favorite little yellow Autobot has been the secret sauce in...
- 1/16/2024
- by Ryan Scott
- Slash Film
Clockwise from left: Foe (Amazon Studios), Mad Max (American International Pictures), The Passenger (Paramount Home Entertainment)Image: The A.V. Club
Amazon’s Prime Video revs up the new year with new originals and several movies focused on automobiles and other modes of transportation. A few short months before Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga...
Amazon’s Prime Video revs up the new year with new originals and several movies focused on automobiles and other modes of transportation. A few short months before Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga...
- 12/31/2023
- by Robert DeSalvo
- avclub.com
Friday Afternoon: Right now, it’s looking like Warner Bros/DC’s Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom will arrive at $40M over 4-days, which is where tracking had it.
That said, Warners can boast, and CEO David Zaslav can be happy, in having the top two films at the box office along with Wonka‘s second weekend in the No. 2 spot with a projected $31M over the Dec. 22-25 span. Friday/previews for Aquaman 2 is $14M with a 3-day of $30M at 3,706 theaters. Wonka‘s second Friday is $7M (-51%), which translates to a 3-day of $22M at 4,213 theaters. We’re hearing that Color Purple‘s Christmas Day gross could be around $10M-$12M, which would put it in the No. 4 spot behind Illumination and Universal’s Migration which is looking at $18M at 3,761 theaters; a better than expected result than the $10M-$12M we were hearing about.
With grosses like these,...
That said, Warners can boast, and CEO David Zaslav can be happy, in having the top two films at the box office along with Wonka‘s second weekend in the No. 2 spot with a projected $31M over the Dec. 22-25 span. Friday/previews for Aquaman 2 is $14M with a 3-day of $30M at 3,706 theaters. Wonka‘s second Friday is $7M (-51%), which translates to a 3-day of $22M at 4,213 theaters. We’re hearing that Color Purple‘s Christmas Day gross could be around $10M-$12M, which would put it in the No. 4 spot behind Illumination and Universal’s Migration which is looking at $18M at 3,761 theaters; a better than expected result than the $10M-$12M we were hearing about.
With grosses like these,...
- 12/22/2023
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Friends! It is a treat to celebrate the passage of another year with you. 2023 has been an unusual one with the Writers and Actors’ strikes provoking much discussion about the current state (and future outlook) of the industry. But there were wonderful high points of pure joy – a Goonie won an Oscar! – and great work was seen and championed.
We saw new films from Hayao Miyazaki, Jeff Nichols, Greta Gerwig, Yorgos Lanthimos, Paul King, Mark Jenkin, Sofia Coppola, M. Night Shyamalan, Nicole Holofcener, Pedro Almodovar, Brandon Cronenberg, Emerald Fennell, Ari Aster, and a new TV series from Brit Marling and Zal Batmanglij – life in the chaotic tubetunnel is vibrant indeed!
It is with this spirit in mind that we, in our fifteenth year, take our fourteenth lookback and the films and people we want to celebrate in…
The 2023 Truffles – The HeyUGuys Alternative Movie Awards
Once again – from all of us...
We saw new films from Hayao Miyazaki, Jeff Nichols, Greta Gerwig, Yorgos Lanthimos, Paul King, Mark Jenkin, Sofia Coppola, M. Night Shyamalan, Nicole Holofcener, Pedro Almodovar, Brandon Cronenberg, Emerald Fennell, Ari Aster, and a new TV series from Brit Marling and Zal Batmanglij – life in the chaotic tubetunnel is vibrant indeed!
It is with this spirit in mind that we, in our fifteenth year, take our fourteenth lookback and the films and people we want to celebrate in…
The 2023 Truffles – The HeyUGuys Alternative Movie Awards
Once again – from all of us...
- 12/15/2023
- by Jon Lyus
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
It’s official: Paramount+ is finally available to consumers in Japan. As first tipped by the company in September, the streaming service launched in Japan Wednesday as a no-additional-cost addition to the on-demand services of local operators J:com and Wowow. J:com is one of Japan’s top cable television operators and broadband internet providers, while Wowow is the longstanding leading premium pay channel in the market.
The Japan launch completes Paramount+’s entry into all of the world’s top ten international subscription video growth markets. The partnership marks the second launch for Paramount+ in East Asia, following a similar arrangement set up last year in South Korea with TVing, the streaming service controlled by Korean entertainment giant Cj Enm. Parmount+ also launched in Australia via a partnership in August 2021. In Europe, the service is available through partnerships with Sky in Italy, the U.K., and Germany, and with Canal+ in France.
The Japan launch completes Paramount+’s entry into all of the world’s top ten international subscription video growth markets. The partnership marks the second launch for Paramount+ in East Asia, following a similar arrangement set up last year in South Korea with TVing, the streaming service controlled by Korean entertainment giant Cj Enm. Parmount+ also launched in Australia via a partnership in August 2021. In Europe, the service is available through partnerships with Sky in Italy, the U.K., and Germany, and with Canal+ in France.
- 12/6/2023
- by Patrick Brzeski
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Matt Damon has worked with a lot of young actors, but he walked away with a strong impression of his True Grit co-star. What he didn’t know at the time, however, was she was going to be a big star in Marvel.
Matt Damon couldn’t believe how good his younger ‘True Grit’ co-star was Hailee Steinfeld | Joe Maher/Getty Images
Damon starred in the Coen Brothers movie True Grit with an ensemble cast. He found himself working alongside the likes of Josh Brolin, Tommy Lee Jones, and Jeff Bridges in the 2010 drama. But he found his co-star Hailee Steinfeld just as impressive as the veterans he worked with. Especially given how young she was at the time.
“She’s quite extraordinary in general. She’s 13-years-old and I wouldn’t believe that a 13-year-old would really be capable of this type of performance. It’s a really tough...
Matt Damon couldn’t believe how good his younger ‘True Grit’ co-star was Hailee Steinfeld | Joe Maher/Getty Images
Damon starred in the Coen Brothers movie True Grit with an ensemble cast. He found himself working alongside the likes of Josh Brolin, Tommy Lee Jones, and Jeff Bridges in the 2010 drama. But he found his co-star Hailee Steinfeld just as impressive as the veterans he worked with. Especially given how young she was at the time.
“She’s quite extraordinary in general. She’s 13-years-old and I wouldn’t believe that a 13-year-old would really be capable of this type of performance. It’s a really tough...
- 11/27/2023
- by Antonio Stallings
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Updated Exclusive: Warner Bros’ feature musical Wonka arrived on three-week-out tracking this week with a revised industry projection of $35M-$40M when it opens on Dec. 15.
That start is in the vicinity of Sony’s Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle ($36.2M) which opened before Christmas on Dec. 20. While going pre-Christmas is always risky for any movie, family branded pics are quite safe and remain a powerful distraction for families who are still in the throes of shopping.
The Timothée Chalamet movie is great with women right now, under and over 25. Unaided awareness is 22-23 with women which is the category by which respondents cite a movie’s name to pollster’s without being prodded (it’s evidence that a movie’s promo machine is working on a title). Those numbers are a point above the unaided awareness for females on Illumination/Universal’s Super Mario Bros Movie. In first choice...
That start is in the vicinity of Sony’s Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle ($36.2M) which opened before Christmas on Dec. 20. While going pre-Christmas is always risky for any movie, family branded pics are quite safe and remain a powerful distraction for families who are still in the throes of shopping.
The Timothée Chalamet movie is great with women right now, under and over 25. Unaided awareness is 22-23 with women which is the category by which respondents cite a movie’s name to pollster’s without being prodded (it’s evidence that a movie’s promo machine is working on a title). Those numbers are a point above the unaided awareness for females on Illumination/Universal’s Super Mario Bros Movie. In first choice...
- 11/24/2023
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Photo credit: Sony Pictures
In “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,” our hero Miles Morales (Shameik Moore) is transported to a dimension where dozens of other Spider-heroes reside — or at least intersect like threads on a web.
There’s Miguel O’Hara/Spider-Man 2099 (Oscar Isaac), the leader of this Spider Society. His right hand is Jessica Drew/Spider-Woman (Issa Rae), who shares the same superhero name as Gwen Stacy/Spider-Woman (Hailee Steinfeld). You won’t confuse them though, as each hero has his/her own distinct character design and animation style.
Here’s a complete (and spoiler-free) “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” cast and character guide.
Photo credit: Sony Pictures Animation/Getty
Miles Morales/Spider-Man
Voiced by: Shameik Moore
Now 15-years-old, Miles is dealing with a lot of teenage issues: feeling isolated/lonely due to his secret life, college/career planning, and trying to be the best son he can. He resides on...
In “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,” our hero Miles Morales (Shameik Moore) is transported to a dimension where dozens of other Spider-heroes reside — or at least intersect like threads on a web.
There’s Miguel O’Hara/Spider-Man 2099 (Oscar Isaac), the leader of this Spider Society. His right hand is Jessica Drew/Spider-Woman (Issa Rae), who shares the same superhero name as Gwen Stacy/Spider-Woman (Hailee Steinfeld). You won’t confuse them though, as each hero has his/her own distinct character design and animation style.
Here’s a complete (and spoiler-free) “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” cast and character guide.
Photo credit: Sony Pictures Animation/Getty
Miles Morales/Spider-Man
Voiced by: Shameik Moore
Now 15-years-old, Miles is dealing with a lot of teenage issues: feeling isolated/lonely due to his secret life, college/career planning, and trying to be the best son he can. He resides on...
- 11/16/2023
- by Lawrence Yee
- The Wrap
Josh Allen is the quarterback for the Buffalo Bills and his love life is definitely going to be in the spotlight during the NFL season.
The 27-year-old football player is currently in a relationship with Oscar-nominated actress Hailee Steinfeld after splitting from his longtime girlfriend Brittany Williams earlier this year.
For those who don’t know, Hailee, 26, was nominated for an Oscar back in 2011 for her work in True Grit and she has also starred in Pitch Perfect 2 and 3, Bumblebee, The Edge of Seventeen, Ender’s Game, and shows like Hawkeye and Dickinson. She’s also a successful recording artist.
We’re taking a look at the new couple’s relationship timeline.
Head inside to learn more about Josh Allen and Hailee Steinfeld’s relationship…
April 2023 – Josh appears to become single
It was reported in April that Josh and his longtime love Brittany Williams split up after dating since...
The 27-year-old football player is currently in a relationship with Oscar-nominated actress Hailee Steinfeld after splitting from his longtime girlfriend Brittany Williams earlier this year.
For those who don’t know, Hailee, 26, was nominated for an Oscar back in 2011 for her work in True Grit and she has also starred in Pitch Perfect 2 and 3, Bumblebee, The Edge of Seventeen, Ender’s Game, and shows like Hawkeye and Dickinson. She’s also a successful recording artist.
We’re taking a look at the new couple’s relationship timeline.
Head inside to learn more about Josh Allen and Hailee Steinfeld’s relationship…
April 2023 – Josh appears to become single
It was reported in April that Josh and his longtime love Brittany Williams split up after dating since...
- 11/14/2023
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
"Transformers" has been a staple in pop culture for going on 40 years now. From the somewhat humble beginnings as a bunch of transforming toys turned popular cartoon series to eventually becoming a multi-billion-dollar film franchise, Optimus Prime and the gang have come a long way. Speaking of the movies, we now live in a world with seven live-action movies, as well as the animated one from the '80s, with even more on the way. That being the case, it might be a little tough for casual movie lovers to keep track of things. We're here to help.
We're going to go over the correct movie to watch the "Transformers" movies, either for those who simply want to watch them in the order they were released, or those who would prefer to watch them in chronological order. Either way, we've got you covered. We're also going to go over some...
We're going to go over the correct movie to watch the "Transformers" movies, either for those who simply want to watch them in the order they were released, or those who would prefer to watch them in chronological order. Either way, we've got you covered. We're also going to go over some...
- 11/12/2023
- by Ryan Scott
- Slash Film
Josh Allen is the quarterback for the Buffalo Bills and his love life is definitely going to be in the spotlight during the NFL season.
The 27-year-old football player is currently in a relationship with Oscar-nominated actress Hailee Steinfeld after splitting from his longtime girlfriend Brittany Williams earlier this year.
For those who don’t know, Hailee, 26, was nominated for an Oscar back in 2011 for her work in True Grit and she has also starred in Pitch Perfect 2 and 3, Bumblebee, The Edge of Seventeen, Ender’s Game, and shows like Hawkeye and Dickinson. She’s also a successful recording artist.
We’re taking a look at the new couple’s relationship timeline.
Head inside to learn more about Josh Allen and Hailee Steinfeld’s relationship…
April 2023 – Josh appears to become single
It was reported in April that Josh and his longtime love Brittany Williams split up after dating since...
The 27-year-old football player is currently in a relationship with Oscar-nominated actress Hailee Steinfeld after splitting from his longtime girlfriend Brittany Williams earlier this year.
For those who don’t know, Hailee, 26, was nominated for an Oscar back in 2011 for her work in True Grit and she has also starred in Pitch Perfect 2 and 3, Bumblebee, The Edge of Seventeen, Ender’s Game, and shows like Hawkeye and Dickinson. She’s also a successful recording artist.
We’re taking a look at the new couple’s relationship timeline.
Head inside to learn more about Josh Allen and Hailee Steinfeld’s relationship…
April 2023 – Josh appears to become single
It was reported in April that Josh and his longtime love Brittany Williams split up after dating since...
- 10/27/2023
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
Today is the second and final day in Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days. Get a jump-start on holiday shopping for the genre fan in your life (or treat yourself!) with slashed prices on horror 4K Ultra HDs and Blu-rays ranging from classics to recent releases.
Many of yesterday’s deals are still active, along with a slew of new ones.
Here are the top horror and genre-adjacent highlights from the Prime Big Deal Days event…
4K Ultra HD Collections:
Us / Get Out – $17.99 Back to the Future: The Ultimate Trilogy – $23.74 Game of Thrones: The Complete Collection – $94.99
Individual 4K UHDs:
Color Out of Space – $9.96 Godzilla (2014) – $9.99 Godzilla vs. Kong – $9.99 John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum – $9.44 No Time to Die – $9.49 R.I.P.D. – $9.49 Glass – $9.99 The Mummy (2017) – $9.99 Bumblebee – $9.99 Ghost in the Shell (1995) – $10.19 Warcraft – $10.44 The Invisible Man (2020) – $10.99 A Clockwork Orange – $10.99 Jurassic Park – $10.99 Inglourious Basterds – $10.99 Knives Out – $11.89 Moonfall – $11.89 The Cabin in the Woods – $11.99 Highlander – $13.30 The Green Knight...
Many of yesterday’s deals are still active, along with a slew of new ones.
Here are the top horror and genre-adjacent highlights from the Prime Big Deal Days event…
4K Ultra HD Collections:
Us / Get Out – $17.99 Back to the Future: The Ultimate Trilogy – $23.74 Game of Thrones: The Complete Collection – $94.99
Individual 4K UHDs:
Color Out of Space – $9.96 Godzilla (2014) – $9.99 Godzilla vs. Kong – $9.99 John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum – $9.44 No Time to Die – $9.49 R.I.P.D. – $9.49 Glass – $9.99 The Mummy (2017) – $9.99 Bumblebee – $9.99 Ghost in the Shell (1995) – $10.19 Warcraft – $10.44 The Invisible Man (2020) – $10.99 A Clockwork Orange – $10.99 Jurassic Park – $10.99 Inglourious Basterds – $10.99 Knives Out – $11.89 Moonfall – $11.89 The Cabin in the Woods – $11.99 Highlander – $13.30 The Green Knight...
- 10/11/2023
- by Alex DiVincenzo
- bloody-disgusting.com
The “Transformers” franchise returned to theaters in 2023 with “Transformers: Rise of the Beasts,” the latest installment in the big-screen, live-action adaptation of the beloved Hasbro toy line. “Rise of the Beasts,” which is the planned start of a new trilogy, is the seventh film in the series. Chronologically, it comes after “Bumblebee,” which was a prequel to the first five films in the series. This means you don’t technically have to watch or rewatch any of the Michael Bay-helmed movies before — but don’t you kind of want to anyway?
In case you forgot, Michael Bay was behind the camera for “Transformers” (2007), “Revenge of the Fallen” (2009), “Dark of the Moon” (2011), “Age of Extinction” (2014), and “The Last Knight” (2017). Travis Knight (“Kubo and the Two Strings”) took over for “Bumblebee” (2018) and Steven Caple Jr. (“Creed II”) stepped in for “Rise of the Beasts” (2023). The latest film in the franchise takes place in the 1990s,...
In case you forgot, Michael Bay was behind the camera for “Transformers” (2007), “Revenge of the Fallen” (2009), “Dark of the Moon” (2011), “Age of Extinction” (2014), and “The Last Knight” (2017). Travis Knight (“Kubo and the Two Strings”) took over for “Bumblebee” (2018) and Steven Caple Jr. (“Creed II”) stepped in for “Rise of the Beasts” (2023). The latest film in the franchise takes place in the 1990s,...
- 10/11/2023
- by Kayti Burt
- The Wrap
After years of director Michael Bay bludgeoning viewers to within an inch of their lives with "Transformers" movies filled by nonstop explosions, crass toilet humor, and pretty much rampant instances of racism and misogyny, Paramount correctly realized that fans needed a bit of a change of pace with the 2018 prequel "Bumblebee." In the hands of director Travis Knight and writer Christina Hodson, their mission statement seemed to be erring on the side of character and raising the stakes not through end-of-the-world shenanigans, but by taking characters we'd grown to love and simply putting obstacles in their path. Wrap that up in a heartfelt coming-of-age story with a genuinely likable lead (thanks to Hailee Steinfeld's performance) and the end result was the best movie in the franchise, by default. What a concept!
The follow-up, this year's "Transformers: Rise of the Beasts," didn't exactly impress either critics or audiences (you can...
The follow-up, this year's "Transformers: Rise of the Beasts," didn't exactly impress either critics or audiences (you can...
- 10/10/2023
- by Jeremy Mathai
- Slash Film
The "Transformers" movies took a pretty healthy break after the release of 2018's "Bumblebee," even if that wasn't originally the plan that Paramount Pictures had in mind. Regardless, thanks to the pandemic, that's exactly what happened. But with the release of "Transformers: Rise of the Beasts" in 2023, the franchise is back with much more to come. Not only are we poised for more live-action movies but we're also getting a feature-length, theatrically-released animated film in the form of "Transformers One."
While the robots in disguise started out as toys, it was in no small part thanks to the '80s animated series, as well as 1986's "Transformers: The Movie" that helped make the Autobots and Decepticons staples of pop culture. So bringing it back around to animation feels like a full-circle moment, and one that may well excite fans who checked out during Michael Bay's later live-action entries. So...
While the robots in disguise started out as toys, it was in no small part thanks to the '80s animated series, as well as 1986's "Transformers: The Movie" that helped make the Autobots and Decepticons staples of pop culture. So bringing it back around to animation feels like a full-circle moment, and one that may well excite fans who checked out during Michael Bay's later live-action entries. So...
- 10/9/2023
- by Ryan Scott
- Slash Film
Since her debut in the 1986 animated "Transformers" movie, Arcee has been one of the most famous Autobots of all. The default girl Transformer, Arcee rocks a feminine pink-and-white color scheme and either a sports car or motorcycle vehicle mode. She's also had a bit of a rough history.
Arcee was considered for the 2007 "Transformers" film (check out concept art of her here), but like a few other characters, she was cut during development. Co-writer Roberto Orci explained the removal to IGN: "The idea of a female Transformer needs its own explanation, and there just wasn't going to be enough time."
The sequel, "Revenge of the Fallen," featured Arcee, but in one of its many faults, it didn't do much with her. Arcee is one of a trio of female motorcycle transformers; she's painted pink while her sisters are blue and purple (media differs on if the trio are separate...
Arcee was considered for the 2007 "Transformers" film (check out concept art of her here), but like a few other characters, she was cut during development. Co-writer Roberto Orci explained the removal to IGN: "The idea of a female Transformer needs its own explanation, and there just wasn't going to be enough time."
The sequel, "Revenge of the Fallen," featured Arcee, but in one of its many faults, it didn't do much with her. Arcee is one of a trio of female motorcycle transformers; she's painted pink while her sisters are blue and purple (media differs on if the trio are separate...
- 10/2/2023
- by Devin Meenan
- Slash Film
Paramount+ is expanding in Asia. The streaming service will debut in Japan on Dec. 1 in partnership with Japanese cable provider J:Com and premium pay television channel WowWow, Paramount+ announced Tuesday.
However, Paramount+ won’t be available as a stand-alone streaming service as it is in North America. Instead, the streamer’s movies and TV shows will be available to as part of the on-demand offerings on J:com and WowWow.
It’s the Paramount-owned streamer’s second Asian market, following its launch in South Korea in 2022. The partnership is an expansion of existing agreements between Paramount, J:com and WowWow.
Paramount+ shows including “Tulsa King,” “Mayor of Kingstown” and “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds” will be available for the first time in Japan. The deal also includes movies and TV from Paramount’s back catalogue, such as “Mission: Impossible,” “Bumblebee” and “Gi-Joe” from Paramount pictures, CBS hits like “NCIS,” and Showtime...
However, Paramount+ won’t be available as a stand-alone streaming service as it is in North America. Instead, the streamer’s movies and TV shows will be available to as part of the on-demand offerings on J:com and WowWow.
It’s the Paramount-owned streamer’s second Asian market, following its launch in South Korea in 2022. The partnership is an expansion of existing agreements between Paramount, J:com and WowWow.
Paramount+ shows including “Tulsa King,” “Mayor of Kingstown” and “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds” will be available for the first time in Japan. The deal also includes movies and TV from Paramount’s back catalogue, such as “Mission: Impossible,” “Bumblebee” and “Gi-Joe” from Paramount pictures, CBS hits like “NCIS,” and Showtime...
- 9/20/2023
- by Ross A. Lincoln
- The Wrap
Paramount+ has finally found a home in Japan. Paramount revealed Wednesday that the streaming service and its library will launch in the Japan market on Dec. 1 as a no-additional-cost addition to the on-demand services of local operators J:com and Wowow. J:com is one of Japan’s top cable television operators and broadband internet providers, while Wowow is the longstanding leading premium pay channel in the market.
The deal marks the second launch for Paramount+ in East Asia, following a similar arrangement set up last year in South Korea with TVing, the streaming service controlled by Korean entertainment giant Cj Enm. Parmount+ also launched in Australia via a partnership in August 2021. In Europe, the service is available through partnerships with Sky in Italy, the U.K., and Germany, and with Canal+ in France.
The Japan deal will give J:com and Wowow subscribers access to Paramount+ originals like Tulsa King, Mayor of Kingstown,...
The deal marks the second launch for Paramount+ in East Asia, following a similar arrangement set up last year in South Korea with TVing, the streaming service controlled by Korean entertainment giant Cj Enm. Parmount+ also launched in Australia via a partnership in August 2021. In Europe, the service is available through partnerships with Sky in Italy, the U.K., and Germany, and with Canal+ in France.
The Japan deal will give J:com and Wowow subscribers access to Paramount+ originals like Tulsa King, Mayor of Kingstown,...
- 9/20/2023
- by Patrick Brzeski
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The "X-Men" movie "Dark Phoenix" was hurt by upheaval at its studio, 20th Century Fox. The film was developed during the merger between Fox and Disney; in fact, "Dark Phoenix" was released on June 7, 2019, early into the new management's tenure. During that theatrical run, it made only $254 million on a $200 million budget, ultimately losing $133 million in the worst bomb of 2019.
It's tempting to think Disney undermined "Dark Phoenix." The movie was released as a lame duck, the last product assembled before all Marvel properties were back under Disney's umbrella. Marvel Studios would've doubtlessly preferred not to inherit a completed "X-Men" film, so that they could get to work on their own versions of the characters (even if the Marvel Cinematic Universe has brought back some faces from Fox's "X-Men" movies since).
However, The Hollywood Reporter indicates there was another player who helped doom "Dark Phoenix" — James Cameron.
Read more: The...
It's tempting to think Disney undermined "Dark Phoenix." The movie was released as a lame duck, the last product assembled before all Marvel properties were back under Disney's umbrella. Marvel Studios would've doubtlessly preferred not to inherit a completed "X-Men" film, so that they could get to work on their own versions of the characters (even if the Marvel Cinematic Universe has brought back some faces from Fox's "X-Men" movies since).
However, The Hollywood Reporter indicates there was another player who helped doom "Dark Phoenix" — James Cameron.
Read more: The...
- 9/16/2023
- by Devin Meenan
- Slash Film
In modern Hollywood, it’s not uncommon for WWE stars to become movie stars, mainly because they have already built their reputation and recognition as celebrities through WWE. John Cena is certainly one of those stars. He started his career as an actor in 2006’s ‘The Marine,’ and he gained further recognition with ‘Trainwreck,’ ‘Bumblebee,’ and the two latest installments of the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise. However, he won’t be remembered for any of these roles as much as he’s going to be with the role of Christopher Smith, aka Peacemaker, in DC Extended Universe.
John Cena debuted as Peacemaker in 2021’s ‘The Suicide Squad,’ written and directed by the current co-ceo of DC Studios, James Gunn. Cena’s performance received positive feedback, and many fans agreed that Cena found a role that suited him the best, which Cena proved even more in 2022’s spin-off series ‘Peacemaker,’ which is...
John Cena debuted as Peacemaker in 2021’s ‘The Suicide Squad,’ written and directed by the current co-ceo of DC Studios, James Gunn. Cena’s performance received positive feedback, and many fans agreed that Cena found a role that suited him the best, which Cena proved even more in 2022’s spin-off series ‘Peacemaker,’ which is...
- 8/25/2023
- by Lukas Abramovich
- Comic Basics
DC’s “The Flash” is set to stream on Warner Bros. Discovery’s Max starting Aug. 25.
The first-ever standalone feature film for Barry Allen, which stars Ezra Miller and is directed by Andy Muschetti, follows the titular superhero as he uses his powers to travel back in time to change the events of the past.
But when his attempt to save his family inadvertently alters the future, Barry becomes trapped in a reality in which General Zod has returned, threatening annihilation, and there are no Super Heroes to turn to. That is, unless Barry can coax a very different Batman out of retirement and rescue an imprisoned Kryptonian… albeit not the one he’s looking for.
The streaming announcement comes as the film was a commercial disappointment when it hit theaters back in May. It grossed $108 million domestically and just $268 million worldwide.
In addition to Miller, the cast of “The Flash” includes Sasha Calle,...
The first-ever standalone feature film for Barry Allen, which stars Ezra Miller and is directed by Andy Muschetti, follows the titular superhero as he uses his powers to travel back in time to change the events of the past.
But when his attempt to save his family inadvertently alters the future, Barry becomes trapped in a reality in which General Zod has returned, threatening annihilation, and there are no Super Heroes to turn to. That is, unless Barry can coax a very different Batman out of retirement and rescue an imprisoned Kryptonian… albeit not the one he’s looking for.
The streaming announcement comes as the film was a commercial disappointment when it hit theaters back in May. It grossed $108 million domestically and just $268 million worldwide.
In addition to Miller, the cast of “The Flash” includes Sasha Calle,...
- 8/18/2023
- by Lucas Manfredi
- The Wrap
For years, the live-action "Transformers" movie franchise's box office numbers appeared to have a reverse correlation with Rotten Tomatoes scores: the more scathing reviews a "Transformers" movie got, the more tickets it would sell. This was held up as proof that (depending on your perspective) either snooty film critics are out of touch with modern moviegoers, or modern moviegoers will watch any old trash as long as it's loud and action-heavy and has characters they recognize.
Neither of these conclusions are really fair. Director Michael Bay, for all his faults, does a great explosion and also perfected the art of the 360 spinning hero shot. Sometimes the world needs a loud movie with robots that will entertain kids who aren't really paying attention to the plot. And film critics can love trash just as much as the next person. Even The New Yorker, a publication so snooty that its mascot is...
Neither of these conclusions are really fair. Director Michael Bay, for all his faults, does a great explosion and also perfected the art of the 360 spinning hero shot. Sometimes the world needs a loud movie with robots that will entertain kids who aren't really paying attention to the plot. And film critics can love trash just as much as the next person. Even The New Yorker, a publication so snooty that its mascot is...
- 8/15/2023
- by Hannah Shaw-Williams
- Slash Film
For good or ill, "Transformers" broke new ground in creating photorealistic computer-generated characters and, in turn, splicing them into live-action footage. It's hard to imagine "The Avengers" in a world where the Autobots and Decepticons don't battle it out in the so-called Mission City. However, working in uncharted waters always leads to challenges in conceptualization.
"Transformers" screenwriter Roberto Orci spoke to IGN after the movie's release. It was "very hard" for him and co-writer Alex Kurtzman to merge the human and robot stories. I can understand their caution; before writing any scenes with the robots, they probably had to consider if the animators would even be able to pull them off. Accordingly, the first draft didn't have many Transformers at all; producer Steven Spielberg pitched the story as "a boy and his car," so that's what Orci and Kurtzman initially wrote.
"The first draft was almost exclusively just Shia [LeBeouf] and...
"Transformers" screenwriter Roberto Orci spoke to IGN after the movie's release. It was "very hard" for him and co-writer Alex Kurtzman to merge the human and robot stories. I can understand their caution; before writing any scenes with the robots, they probably had to consider if the animators would even be able to pull them off. Accordingly, the first draft didn't have many Transformers at all; producer Steven Spielberg pitched the story as "a boy and his car," so that's what Orci and Kurtzman initially wrote.
"The first draft was almost exclusively just Shia [LeBeouf] and...
- 8/8/2023
- by Devin Meenan
- Slash Film
Have you ever noticed Optimus Prime in Michael Bay's "Transformers" films isn't really all that heroic? To be fair, he doesn't start that way in Bay's original 2007 "Transformers" film. There, he tries to keep the fights between the Autobots and Decepticons away from densely-populated areas and, when that's not possible, makes an active effort to minimize casualties. Optimus even implores Sam Witwicky (Shia Labeouf) to place the AllSpark (ie. the film's MacGuffin) in his chest during the climax, knowing it will kill him but will also prevent his arch-nemesis Megatron and the other Decepticons from wreaking havoc on the universe.
Of course, Sam sticks the AllSpark in Megatron's chest to kill him instead, and Optimus and the Autobots return in the 2009 sequel, "Revenge of the Fallen," now working with humanity to hunt down the remaining Decepticons. By this point, however, Optimus has basically morphed into Judge Dredd, anointing himself judge,...
Of course, Sam sticks the AllSpark in Megatron's chest to kill him instead, and Optimus and the Autobots return in the 2009 sequel, "Revenge of the Fallen," now working with humanity to hunt down the remaining Decepticons. By this point, however, Optimus has basically morphed into Judge Dredd, anointing himself judge,...
- 8/7/2023
- by Sandy Schaefer
- Slash Film
DC’s latest movie, ‘The Flash,’ was released last month after nine long years of development hell. Although the movie ultimately turned out to be one of the worst box-office failures in the history of this genre, it still got more-or-less decent reviews from fans and more mixed reviews from critics, who praised action sequences and performances but criticized visual effects, and the third act.
Still, the Ezra Miller-starring movie is one of the most unique DC movies to date since it presented itself as some sort of DC’s ‘No Way Home,’ and it featured a ton of cameos, not only from Dceu but from the entire DC Multiverse in general. Although bringing back Christopher Reeve’s Superman via computer-generated imagery sparked controversies, one other Superman that showed up in the movie was Nicolas Cage’s incarnation of the character from a movie that never happened.
Nicolas Cage...
Still, the Ezra Miller-starring movie is one of the most unique DC movies to date since it presented itself as some sort of DC’s ‘No Way Home,’ and it featured a ton of cameos, not only from Dceu but from the entire DC Multiverse in general. Although bringing back Christopher Reeve’s Superman via computer-generated imagery sparked controversies, one other Superman that showed up in the movie was Nicolas Cage’s incarnation of the character from a movie that never happened.
Nicolas Cage...
- 7/29/2023
- by Lukas Abramovich
- Comic Basics
“Transformers: Rise of the Beasts” is coming to Paramount+ this week.
The streamer announced the action- and visual effects-packed film will be available to stream on the service beginning Tuesday, July 25 in the United States and Canada. The film’s availability in additional international Paramount+ markets will be announced at a later date.
The seventh installment of the hit Paramount Pictures film franchise opened atop the domestic box office back in June and has grossed over $420 million worldwide.
Returning to the action and spectacle that have captured moviegoers around the world, the film takes audiences on a ‘90s globetrotting adventure with the Autobots and introduces a whole new faction of Transformer – the Maximals – to join them as allies in the existing battle for earth against the Terrorcons.
While “Rise of the Beasts” is the newest Transformers film, it actually takes place before most of its predecessors in terms of storyline.
The streamer announced the action- and visual effects-packed film will be available to stream on the service beginning Tuesday, July 25 in the United States and Canada. The film’s availability in additional international Paramount+ markets will be announced at a later date.
The seventh installment of the hit Paramount Pictures film franchise opened atop the domestic box office back in June and has grossed over $420 million worldwide.
Returning to the action and spectacle that have captured moviegoers around the world, the film takes audiences on a ‘90s globetrotting adventure with the Autobots and introduces a whole new faction of Transformer – the Maximals – to join them as allies in the existing battle for earth against the Terrorcons.
While “Rise of the Beasts” is the newest Transformers film, it actually takes place before most of its predecessors in terms of storyline.
- 7/25/2023
- by Lawrence Yee
- The Wrap
Streaming
Prime Video and BBC Studios have launched BBC Player and BBC Kids on Prime Video Channels in India. The subscription-based service will provide Indian viewers a curated line-up of popular British content spanning dramas, comedy, documentaries, factual shows, entertainment, lifestyle programming and children’s shows. Prime members can purchase an annual add-on subscription to BBC Player for Inr 599 ($7.30) that includes full access to BBC Kids. Alternatively, members can also subscribe to BBC Kids only for Inr 199 ($2.42) annually.
Title available at launch on BBC Player include “Six Four,” “The Diplomat,” “Chivalry,” “Citizen Khan,” “Sherlock,” “Unforgotten,” “Happy Valley,” “Top Gear,” “The Great British Bake Off,” “This is Going to Hurt,” “Small Axe” and “Strictly Come Dancing.” BBC Kids will feature “Hey Duggee,” “Go Jetters,” “JoJo & Gran Gran,” “Sarah & Duck” and “Junior Bake Off.”
Stanley Fernandes, VP distribution BBC Studios, South Asia, said: “These brands will offer a curated, multi-genre content line-up,...
Prime Video and BBC Studios have launched BBC Player and BBC Kids on Prime Video Channels in India. The subscription-based service will provide Indian viewers a curated line-up of popular British content spanning dramas, comedy, documentaries, factual shows, entertainment, lifestyle programming and children’s shows. Prime members can purchase an annual add-on subscription to BBC Player for Inr 599 ($7.30) that includes full access to BBC Kids. Alternatively, members can also subscribe to BBC Kids only for Inr 199 ($2.42) annually.
Title available at launch on BBC Player include “Six Four,” “The Diplomat,” “Chivalry,” “Citizen Khan,” “Sherlock,” “Unforgotten,” “Happy Valley,” “Top Gear,” “The Great British Bake Off,” “This is Going to Hurt,” “Small Axe” and “Strictly Come Dancing.” BBC Kids will feature “Hey Duggee,” “Go Jetters,” “JoJo & Gran Gran,” “Sarah & Duck” and “Junior Bake Off.”
Stanley Fernandes, VP distribution BBC Studios, South Asia, said: “These brands will offer a curated, multi-genre content line-up,...
- 7/20/2023
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
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