“Ma’am, I’m 10 years old, you think I could write this alone? I don’t think so.” The age demographics in Hollywood are about to skew a lot younger because a pre-teen has pitched an idea that is soon enough going to be written for the screen – and it’s a wonder it hasn’t been made yet. Here we have Home Alone meets The Godfather, in which we imagine one scene where Kevin McCallister jumps on his parents’ bed, only to find a decapitated horse head at the foot of it. The title? Little Wiseguy.
But the pitch doesn’t come from a desperate studio suit but rather a 10-year-old named Connor Esterson, who you may actually be familiar with, as he co-starred in last year’s Spy Kids: Armageddon. And while Esterson has very likely seen Home Alone numerous times around the holiday season, he admits he...
But the pitch doesn’t come from a desperate studio suit but rather a 10-year-old named Connor Esterson, who you may actually be familiar with, as he co-starred in last year’s Spy Kids: Armageddon. And while Esterson has very likely seen Home Alone numerous times around the holiday season, he admits he...
- 3/31/2024
- by Mathew Plale
- JoBlo.com
Hollywood is proof that talent has no age bar, and 10-year-old Connor Esterson is a testament to that. The 5th grader who made his presence felt on screen in Spy Kids: Armageddon has now turned his attention to writing. Esterson has been in talks with bigwigs in the writing fraternity, namely Nick Vallelonga and George Gallo, to pitch a screenplay featuring a young boy’s relationship with a gangster.
Connor Esterson in Spy Kids: Armageddon
The veteran writers were extremely impressed with the aspiring screenwriter’s idea and are now in talks to find ways to get his narrative up and running. While this is a big achievement for someone so young, Esterson’s story is being criticized by netizens for its uncanny similarity to a 1993 Robert De Niro film.
Fans Connect Robert De Niro’s Film And This Young Writer’s Script
Apart from being an aspiring actor, young...
Connor Esterson in Spy Kids: Armageddon
The veteran writers were extremely impressed with the aspiring screenwriter’s idea and are now in talks to find ways to get his narrative up and running. While this is a big achievement for someone so young, Esterson’s story is being criticized by netizens for its uncanny similarity to a 1993 Robert De Niro film.
Fans Connect Robert De Niro’s Film And This Young Writer’s Script
Apart from being an aspiring actor, young...
- 3/28/2024
- by Sharanya Sankar
- FandomWire
In another installment of “What the heck are we doing with our lives?” A 10-year-old Connor Esterson is developing the script for a “Home Alone–meet-The-Godfather”-esque movie titled Little Wiseguy. Working alongside the preteen are Hollywood Oscar winner Nick Vallelonga and Bad Boys writer George Gallo, gearing up to pitch it to studios around town soon enough. Esterson however has many talents up his sleeve, he is not only a budding actor but also aspiring to become a director in Hollywood.
Marlon Brando in The Godfather Oscar Winner Nick Vallelonga Teamed with 10-Year-Old for this New Movie!
As soon as The Hollywood Reporter reported this, the internet was stunned by news of 10-year-old Connor Esterson, who had prepared a 6-page script for a film that instantly captivated Nick Vallelonga and George Gallo.
Suggested“The good, bad, and the ugly”: Michael Jackson Biopic Set To Finally Shed Light on...
Marlon Brando in The Godfather Oscar Winner Nick Vallelonga Teamed with 10-Year-Old for this New Movie!
As soon as The Hollywood Reporter reported this, the internet was stunned by news of 10-year-old Connor Esterson, who had prepared a 6-page script for a film that instantly captivated Nick Vallelonga and George Gallo.
Suggested“The good, bad, and the ugly”: Michael Jackson Biopic Set To Finally Shed Light on...
- 3/28/2024
- by Sampurna Banerjee
- FandomWire
Oscar Parties Are Full of Phonies (But They’re Getting Kicked Out)
Winning an Academy Award opens a lot of doors, especially at Oscar-night afterparties. One of Hollywood’s sacred red carpet rules is that merely holding an Oscar can be a golden ticket to just about every swell soiree in town. But in recent years, some gate-crashers have been exploiting that loophole by turning up with ersatz trophies or, as happened this year, an actual Oscar that didn’t belong to them. Rambling has learned that one non-invitee who arrived at Vanity Fair’s ultra-exclusive fete hauling a vintage 1986 Oscar quickly found himself kicked to the curb. The person was not the award winner, a rep for the magazine confirms to THR, adding that the trophy was confiscated. “Our head of security is working on tracking down its rightful owner.” It’s unclear how the crasher got his hands on the golden boy,...
Winning an Academy Award opens a lot of doors, especially at Oscar-night afterparties. One of Hollywood’s sacred red carpet rules is that merely holding an Oscar can be a golden ticket to just about every swell soiree in town. But in recent years, some gate-crashers have been exploiting that loophole by turning up with ersatz trophies or, as happened this year, an actual Oscar that didn’t belong to them. Rambling has learned that one non-invitee who arrived at Vanity Fair’s ultra-exclusive fete hauling a vintage 1986 Oscar quickly found himself kicked to the curb. The person was not the award winner, a rep for the magazine confirms to THR, adding that the trophy was confiscated. “Our head of security is working on tracking down its rightful owner.” It’s unclear how the crasher got his hands on the golden boy,...
- 3/27/2024
- by Edited by Benjamin Svetkey and Edited by Julian Sancton
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Recently Eric Dane has officially joined the Bad Boys 4. He was captured filming in Miami, showing the actor pointing a gun at his fellow Co-star Martin Lawrence.
Bad Boys is a series of American Buddy Cop Action Comedy Films, created by George Gallo. The stars of this movie are Will Smith and Martin Lawrence. The two played the characters of the Miami Police, who are detectives.
Let’s Delve Into the Thrilling World of Bad Boys:- Just Jared
The Bad Boy’s first movie was released in 1995 it was commercially successful. The chemistry between Smith and Lawrence became the heart of the franchise.
The second movie Bad Boys was Released in 2003. The movie took they new height, it was a roller coaster of adrenaline, humor, and camaraderie.
The third movie Bad Boys for Life was released in 2020. The plot explored loyalty, family, and legacy all while delivering thrilling action...
Bad Boys is a series of American Buddy Cop Action Comedy Films, created by George Gallo. The stars of this movie are Will Smith and Martin Lawrence. The two played the characters of the Miami Police, who are detectives.
Let’s Delve Into the Thrilling World of Bad Boys:- Just Jared
The Bad Boy’s first movie was released in 1995 it was commercially successful. The chemistry between Smith and Lawrence became the heart of the franchise.
The second movie Bad Boys was Released in 2003. The movie took they new height, it was a roller coaster of adrenaline, humor, and camaraderie.
The third movie Bad Boys for Life was released in 2020. The plot explored loyalty, family, and legacy all while delivering thrilling action...
- 3/2/2024
- by Anjali Rai
- https://dailyresearchplot.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/new-sam
Exclusive: Nick Vallelonga, the writer, producer and actor whose work on Universal’s Green Book brought him a pair of Oscars and Golden Globes for Best Original Screenplay and Best Picture, has signed with Independent Artist Group for representation.
Directed by Peter Farrelly, the film co-written by Vallelonga was inspired by the true story of his father, Tony Lip (Viggo Mortensen), a tough-nosed nightclub bouncer who took a job as the driver and bodyguard for celebrated pianist Don Shirley (Mahershala Ali) during the 1960s, cultivating an unexpected bond with the eccentric musical genius while on tour with him through the racially charged Deep South.
Released in November 2018 after world premiering at TIFF, where it won the People’s Choice Award, the DreamWorks title grossed more than $321M worldwide.
Vallelonga is fresh off success with international sales at AFM for his new film That’s Amore, a rom-com that he wrote...
Directed by Peter Farrelly, the film co-written by Vallelonga was inspired by the true story of his father, Tony Lip (Viggo Mortensen), a tough-nosed nightclub bouncer who took a job as the driver and bodyguard for celebrated pianist Don Shirley (Mahershala Ali) during the 1960s, cultivating an unexpected bond with the eccentric musical genius while on tour with him through the racially charged Deep South.
Released in November 2018 after world premiering at TIFF, where it won the People’s Choice Award, the DreamWorks title grossed more than $321M worldwide.
Vallelonga is fresh off success with international sales at AFM for his new film That’s Amore, a rom-com that he wrote...
- 11/1/2023
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
In the upcoming musical romantic comedy “That’s Amore!,” audiences will have their chance to see John Travolta doing what so many of his fans love to see him doing — singing and dancing with a smile on his face.
The star’s enduring popularity certainly isn’t lost on writer-director Nick Vallelonga, who won two Oscars for writing and producing the 2018 hit “Green Book,” and is thrilled to be finally getting the film off the ground. “I’m constantly writing and developing scripts, and I’ve always had Travolta in mind for the role. I got to work with John on a George Gallo film [“The Poison Rose”] and I was his stand-in for a week on ‘Staying Alive,’ so I’ve always been a big fan of his work. He just makes you happy when you see him on screen, and I’ve always dreamed of making this movie with him.
The star’s enduring popularity certainly isn’t lost on writer-director Nick Vallelonga, who won two Oscars for writing and producing the 2018 hit “Green Book,” and is thrilled to be finally getting the film off the ground. “I’m constantly writing and developing scripts, and I’ve always had Travolta in mind for the role. I got to work with John on a George Gallo film [“The Poison Rose”] and I was his stand-in for a week on ‘Staying Alive,’ so I’ve always been a big fan of his work. He just makes you happy when you see him on screen, and I’ve always dreamed of making this movie with him.
- 11/1/2023
- by Nick Clement
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Established Artists has joined forces with Steven Salisbury of Revenant Entertainment.
Salisbury built Revenant Entertainment from the ground up in 2019 and now represents a diverse list of international clients including Murielle Hilaire (George Gallo’s The Ritual Killer), Ciara Baxendale (Neil Burger’s Inheritance), Wasé Chief (Kevin Costner’s Horizon), Fernanda Romero (Wolf Mountain), Edward Fletcher (HBO’s True Detective), Dominique Druckman (HBO’s Fake Famous) and Keli Price (HBO’S Rap Shit).
Salisbury started at APA in 2008 and transitioned to management in 2010 working under Sandra Chang, then at Industry Entertainment, and later Evan Hainey at Untitled Entertainment.
“I could not imagine a better teammate than Patrick Havern. He is one of the most authentic people in this industry and I am absolutely thrilled to have the opportunity to work with him again,” said Salisbury. “Patrick helped show me the ropes when I first started at APA and has...
Salisbury built Revenant Entertainment from the ground up in 2019 and now represents a diverse list of international clients including Murielle Hilaire (George Gallo’s The Ritual Killer), Ciara Baxendale (Neil Burger’s Inheritance), Wasé Chief (Kevin Costner’s Horizon), Fernanda Romero (Wolf Mountain), Edward Fletcher (HBO’s True Detective), Dominique Druckman (HBO’s Fake Famous) and Keli Price (HBO’S Rap Shit).
Salisbury started at APA in 2008 and transitioned to management in 2010 working under Sandra Chang, then at Industry Entertainment, and later Evan Hainey at Untitled Entertainment.
“I could not imagine a better teammate than Patrick Havern. He is one of the most authentic people in this industry and I am absolutely thrilled to have the opportunity to work with him again,” said Salisbury. “Patrick helped show me the ropes when I first started at APA and has...
- 8/29/2023
- by Lynette Rice
- Deadline Film + TV
The Ritual Killer, directed by George Gallo, had an intriguing premise that promised to explore human psychology, culture, power, and morality. Excited for the cinematic journey, I looked forward to discovering the characters of Randoku and Mackles and delving into the ritualistic killings, cultural clashes, and the battle between darkness and morality. Unfortunately, the execution fell short. The film struggled to turn its concept into a coherent narrative. Some plot twists and developments felt illogical, diluting the suspense and leaving the viewers unsatisfied. Despite having strong characters, their depth wasn’t fully realized. The experience made me wish for a more logically paced and thought-provoking story, showing that a promising premise alone isn’t enough—skillful storytelling is crucial for cinematic satisfaction.
Spoilers Ahead
Who Was The “Ritual Killer?”
Randoku (played by Vernon Davis), the eponymous ritual killer is a complex and disturbing character that plays a central role in the plot of the movie.
Spoilers Ahead
Who Was The “Ritual Killer?”
Randoku (played by Vernon Davis), the eponymous ritual killer is a complex and disturbing character that plays a central role in the plot of the movie.
- 8/6/2023
- by Poulami Nanda
- Film Fugitives
Columbia Pictures is suing George Gallo, who wrote the story that was developed into the 1995 action hit Bad Boys, to reassert its rights to the movie franchise.
In a complaint filed in California federal court on Friday, the studio argues that Gallo can’t exploit a provision in copyright law that allows authors to claw back ownership of their works after a certain period of time. It’s asking the court for a declaration that Gallo penned the story as a work made for hire, which would make it ineligible for termination.
Bad Boys, which marked Michael Bay’s first feature and starred Martin Lawrence and Will Smith, has spawned two sequels and a TV spinoff. Sony is reportedly eyeing a fourth installment to the franchise with the duo expected to return.
When word of those plans broke, Gallo served the studio with termination notices that purported to terminate the...
In a complaint filed in California federal court on Friday, the studio argues that Gallo can’t exploit a provision in copyright law that allows authors to claw back ownership of their works after a certain period of time. It’s asking the court for a declaration that Gallo penned the story as a work made for hire, which would make it ineligible for termination.
Bad Boys, which marked Michael Bay’s first feature and starred Martin Lawrence and Will Smith, has spawned two sequels and a TV spinoff. Sony is reportedly eyeing a fourth installment to the franchise with the duo expected to return.
When word of those plans broke, Gallo served the studio with termination notices that purported to terminate the...
- 6/26/2023
- by Winston Cho
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Columbia Pictures on Friday filed a lawsuit in U.S. District Court as part of a dispute over rights to the original Bad Boys movie. The 1995 Will Smith-Martin Lawrence buddy comedy was a hit that spawned a franchise, with two sequels and a third in the works, that has grossed more than $840 million at the global box office.
The breach-of-contract suit (read it here) filed in the Central District of California, Western Division, is in response to copyright termination notices filed in 2020 by George Gallo, who co-wrote the story on which the first film was based, and Robert Israel.
Columbia argues that Gallo’s story, written in 1985 and called “Bulletproof Hearts,” was a work for hire via his company Sweet Revenge. Works for hire “are not subject to termination under Section 203 of the Copyright Act,” the studio says.
Gallo says the work was not work for hire and...
The breach-of-contract suit (read it here) filed in the Central District of California, Western Division, is in response to copyright termination notices filed in 2020 by George Gallo, who co-wrote the story on which the first film was based, and Robert Israel.
Columbia argues that Gallo’s story, written in 1985 and called “Bulletproof Hearts,” was a work for hire via his company Sweet Revenge. Works for hire “are not subject to termination under Section 203 of the Copyright Act,” the studio says.
Gallo says the work was not work for hire and...
- 6/24/2023
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
Tuesday’s iTunes chart saw a surge for two A24 Oscar-winning films. However, neither of the winning Netflix titles saw its winners reenter the top 10 chart. This week also saw three different films lead the top VOD charts, which is unusual, but even weirder is none placed on all three.
“Everything Everywhere All at Once” ($19.99) and “The Whale” ($4.99) jumped to #1 and 2 at iTunes, a platform that’s typically quick to reflect increased interest. The films also climbed to second and third at Google Play, more likely reflecting weekend pre-Oscars interest.
Google Play has “Dragon Ball Hero: Super Hero” on top, while Vudu showed “80 for Brady” as #1. Among the chart leaders, “Everything” and “Dragon Ball” made one other list, while “Brady” is only on Vudu’s. These differences can be accounted for by various factors: Vudu elevates PVOD releases with its revenue-based rankings, Google Play lags a few days behind,...
“Everything Everywhere All at Once” ($19.99) and “The Whale” ($4.99) jumped to #1 and 2 at iTunes, a platform that’s typically quick to reflect increased interest. The films also climbed to second and third at Google Play, more likely reflecting weekend pre-Oscars interest.
Google Play has “Dragon Ball Hero: Super Hero” on top, while Vudu showed “80 for Brady” as #1. Among the chart leaders, “Everything” and “Dragon Ball” made one other list, while “Brady” is only on Vudu’s. These differences can be accounted for by various factors: Vudu elevates PVOD releases with its revenue-based rankings, Google Play lags a few days behind,...
- 3/14/2023
- by Tom Brueggemann
- Indiewire
The Ritual Killer is a thriller movie directed by George Gallo starring Morgan Freeman and Cole Hauser.
One of those movies that make us appreciate other good murder thrillers: simplistic, incoherent and only made to bring in money.
Movie Review
A movie written from clichés and which hopes that those clichés, all stuck together, work. They have worked a thousand and one times, and in addition, we have a starring actor who specializes in thrillers. But, no – it doesn’t work and it doesn’t work in the slightest, with its telefilm photography and its unimaginative scenes, and a script which is quite simply incoherent and created from chunks grabbed from other, more intelligent, offerings in the genre.
We love Morgan Freeman and celebrate each of his performances, but the films he appears in have not always been the best and nor have they flattered his brilliant resumé either. This...
One of those movies that make us appreciate other good murder thrillers: simplistic, incoherent and only made to bring in money.
Movie Review
A movie written from clichés and which hopes that those clichés, all stuck together, work. They have worked a thousand and one times, and in addition, we have a starring actor who specializes in thrillers. But, no – it doesn’t work and it doesn’t work in the slightest, with its telefilm photography and its unimaginative scenes, and a script which is quite simply incoherent and created from chunks grabbed from other, more intelligent, offerings in the genre.
We love Morgan Freeman and celebrate each of his performances, but the films he appears in have not always been the best and nor have they flattered his brilliant resumé either. This...
- 3/11/2023
- by Martin Cid
- Martin Cid Magazine - Movies
Shout! Studios presents The Magic Flute by Florian Zigl, executive produced by Roland Emmerich, at 325 theaters with expansion likely. A reimagining of the Mozart opera, it follows a present-day teen sent from London to the Austrian Alps on singing scholarship at the legendary Mozart boarding school. There, he discovers a century old forgotten passageway into the magical world of Mozart’s famed opera.
This Harry Potter-ish adventure fantasy stars Jack Wolfe as Tim Walker, who passes from school into the world of the opera and its many adventures as hero Prince Tamino. Wide releases may be picking up steam and Scream, but in terms of new specialty, and family fare, these isn’t much new competition this weekend.
Melissa Boag, EVP of Family Entertainment at Shout! Studios, hopes it will play with fans of magical adventure, Harry Potter, and classical music. Wolfe is a star of Netflix YA series Shadow & Bone.
This Harry Potter-ish adventure fantasy stars Jack Wolfe as Tim Walker, who passes from school into the world of the opera and its many adventures as hero Prince Tamino. Wide releases may be picking up steam and Scream, but in terms of new specialty, and family fare, these isn’t much new competition this weekend.
Melissa Boag, EVP of Family Entertainment at Shout! Studios, hopes it will play with fans of magical adventure, Harry Potter, and classical music. Wolfe is a star of Netflix YA series Shadow & Bone.
- 3/10/2023
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
(l-r) Morgan Freeman and Cole Hauser in The Ritual Killer. Courtesy of Screen Media
Any time Morgan Freeman is in the cast, a film is going to be worth considering. In the Ritual Killer, he’s second banana but still key to the proceedings. The crime drama opens with a grisly killing and dismemberment in Rome before an immediate switch to the Southern U. S. of A., where similar slayings start occurring in what may be some sort of occult ritual style. Cole Hauser stars as , Detective Boyd, the lead detective on the domestic cases, soon turning to a nearby professor of African cultures and historical practices, Professor Mackles (Freeman) who might understand why the bodies are piling up. Not because he’s the prime suspect. It’s just that aspects of the murder scenes seemingly relate to his slice (inadvertent pun) of academia. Hauser is right, and Freeman starts...
Any time Morgan Freeman is in the cast, a film is going to be worth considering. In the Ritual Killer, he’s second banana but still key to the proceedings. The crime drama opens with a grisly killing and dismemberment in Rome before an immediate switch to the Southern U. S. of A., where similar slayings start occurring in what may be some sort of occult ritual style. Cole Hauser stars as , Detective Boyd, the lead detective on the domestic cases, soon turning to a nearby professor of African cultures and historical practices, Professor Mackles (Freeman) who might understand why the bodies are piling up. Not because he’s the prime suspect. It’s just that aspects of the murder scenes seemingly relate to his slice (inadvertent pun) of academia. Hauser is right, and Freeman starts...
- 3/10/2023
- by Mark Glass
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
After 14 successful seasons in the NFL, Vernon Davis transitioned to acting. He’s been in a number of films and has shared the screen with some A-list celebrities. In his new movie, The Ritual Killer with Academy Award winner Morgan Freeman and Yellowstone star Cole Hauser, he plays a murderer named Randoku.
Showbiz Cheat Sheet caught up with Davis to talk about how he prepared for the role of a serial killer and what other projects he’s been working on.
Vernon Davis as Randoku in ‘The Ritual Killer’ | Credit: Brock Morse What ‘The Ritual Killer’ is about
The Ritual Killer is a dramatic thriller directed by George Gallo. The film follows a detective who teams up with a professor of African Studies to track down a serial killer performing ancient black magic.
“I play a serial killer named Randoku, who kills based on a brutal South African tribal ritual known as Muti,...
Showbiz Cheat Sheet caught up with Davis to talk about how he prepared for the role of a serial killer and what other projects he’s been working on.
Vernon Davis as Randoku in ‘The Ritual Killer’ | Credit: Brock Morse What ‘The Ritual Killer’ is about
The Ritual Killer is a dramatic thriller directed by George Gallo. The film follows a detective who teams up with a professor of African Studies to track down a serial killer performing ancient black magic.
“I play a serial killer named Randoku, who kills based on a brutal South African tribal ritual known as Muti,...
- 3/9/2023
- by Michelle Kapusta
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Plot: A detective teams up with a professor of African studies to stop a serial killer who has been making ritual sacrifices of local youths.
Review: The story and screenplay for The Ritual Killer were cobbled together by a writing team of five different people: Bob Bowersox, Francesco Cinquemani, Luca Giliberto, Jennifer Lemmon, and Joe Lemmon. Director George Gallo then endeavored to bring their work to the screen as a film that really feels like it wants to live up to classic, gritty serial killer crime thrillers of the past. They even got a dash of Seven in there by casting Morgan Freeman in a supporting role. The film just wasn’t written quite well enough to reach the heights of the classics, and at times it seems like the script was assembled by having each of the writers contribute their favorite elements from past movies.
You’ve got the detective on the edge,...
Review: The story and screenplay for The Ritual Killer were cobbled together by a writing team of five different people: Bob Bowersox, Francesco Cinquemani, Luca Giliberto, Jennifer Lemmon, and Joe Lemmon. Director George Gallo then endeavored to bring their work to the screen as a film that really feels like it wants to live up to classic, gritty serial killer crime thrillers of the past. They even got a dash of Seven in there by casting Morgan Freeman in a supporting role. The film just wasn’t written quite well enough to reach the heights of the classics, and at times it seems like the script was assembled by having each of the writers contribute their favorite elements from past movies.
You’ve got the detective on the edge,...
- 3/8/2023
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
Can you imagine a world without "The Dana Carvey Show?" To be fair, you probably can, as the ABC series only lasted for a meager eight episodes during the spring of 1996. While the show itself has gained a cult status over the decades, the real legacy of the series isn't about the show's impact on pop culture, but rather its bringing together of talent that would soon go on to impact pop culture.
Consider this staggering list of names involved: Robert Smigel, Stephen Colbert, Steve Carell, Spike Feresten (writer for David Letterman and "Seinfeld"), Robert Carlock (future showrunner of "30 Rock"), Dino Stamatopoulos (future writer of "Community" and Starburns himself) and Charlie Kaufman were all among the people helping Carvey bring his surreal sketch comedy show to the small screen.
Yet the series may not have happened at all had Carvey not been smarting after a short-lived career as a...
Consider this staggering list of names involved: Robert Smigel, Stephen Colbert, Steve Carell, Spike Feresten (writer for David Letterman and "Seinfeld"), Robert Carlock (future showrunner of "30 Rock"), Dino Stamatopoulos (future writer of "Community" and Starburns himself) and Charlie Kaufman were all among the people helping Carvey bring his surreal sketch comedy show to the small screen.
Yet the series may not have happened at all had Carvey not been smarting after a short-lived career as a...
- 2/12/2023
- by Bill Bria
- Slash Film
The Bad Boys are coming back. A fourth installment in the “Bad Boys” action franchise is in pre-production at Sony Pictures, it was announced Tuesday.
The series’ original stars, Will Smith and Martin Lawrence, announced the new installment in the franchise via posts on social media, which showed the two reuniting for filming on the project. The currently untitled film will see Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah, who directed 2020’s “Bad Boys for Life,” return as directors, with Chris Bremner writing the script. Series producer Jerry Bruckheimer, Doug Belgrad, and Chad Oman return to produce along with Smith for Westbrook. Lawrence, James Lassiter, Mike Stenson, Barry Waldman, and Jon Mone will executive produce the project.
Created by George Gallo, the “Bad Boys” action franchise focuses on Mike Lowrey (Smith) and Marcus Burnett (Lawrence), two detectives in the Miami police department’s narcotics division, as they take on major cases and fight drug rings.
The series’ original stars, Will Smith and Martin Lawrence, announced the new installment in the franchise via posts on social media, which showed the two reuniting for filming on the project. The currently untitled film will see Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah, who directed 2020’s “Bad Boys for Life,” return as directors, with Chris Bremner writing the script. Series producer Jerry Bruckheimer, Doug Belgrad, and Chad Oman return to produce along with Smith for Westbrook. Lawrence, James Lassiter, Mike Stenson, Barry Waldman, and Jon Mone will executive produce the project.
Created by George Gallo, the “Bad Boys” action franchise focuses on Mike Lowrey (Smith) and Marcus Burnett (Lawrence), two detectives in the Miami police department’s narcotics division, as they take on major cases and fight drug rings.
- 1/31/2023
- by Wilson Chapman
- Indiewire
Exclusive: George Gallo (The Comeback Trail) is teaming with Green Book Oscar winner Nick Vallelonga to produce The Accidental Gangster, a new thriller based on reformed gangster Orlando ‘Ori’ Spado’s bestselling autobiography of the same name. The former will also direct from a script by the author’s son Anthony Spado and David Steenhoek.
Prior to leaving the mob, Ori Spado was an associate of NYC Colombo Crime Family underboss Sonny Franzese, as well as Los Angeles Family underboss Jimmy Caci, and Joey Pyle, who led the London-based criminal organization known as The Firm. He worked as a fixer in both Hollywood and New York and went on to pull off numerous jobs and heists during his time with the mafia, after working for a time as an insurance salesman. In 1997, one particular FBI Agent told Spado, “I will see the day you are chained, shackled and put on...
Prior to leaving the mob, Ori Spado was an associate of NYC Colombo Crime Family underboss Sonny Franzese, as well as Los Angeles Family underboss Jimmy Caci, and Joey Pyle, who led the London-based criminal organization known as The Firm. He worked as a fixer in both Hollywood and New York and went on to pull off numerous jobs and heists during his time with the mafia, after working for a time as an insurance salesman. In 1997, one particular FBI Agent told Spado, “I will see the day you are chained, shackled and put on...
- 10/20/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Oscar-winning screenwriters Bobby Moresco (Crash) and Nick Vallelonga (Green Book) have partnered with Midnight Run scribe George Gallo and John Gotti Jr. to develop the series Betrayal examining John Gotti and the Fall of La Cosa Notra.
The New York gangster—otherwise known as the Teflon Don, the Dapper Don—was a Caesar, an Emperor… a King. His flamboyant lifestyle and frequent public trials as the head of the Gambino crime family, which controlled New York’s largest organized-crime syndicates, made him not only a prominent figure in the 1980s and ’90s, but also one of the most well-known organized crime bosses in American history. Gotti’s rise from a loyal soldier to Boss of Bosses, and ultimately to his sentencing to life imprisonment after being betrayed by his underboss, Sammy Gravano, is legendary.
The story being packaged as a limited series will differ from past incarnations of Gotti...
The New York gangster—otherwise known as the Teflon Don, the Dapper Don—was a Caesar, an Emperor… a King. His flamboyant lifestyle and frequent public trials as the head of the Gambino crime family, which controlled New York’s largest organized-crime syndicates, made him not only a prominent figure in the 1980s and ’90s, but also one of the most well-known organized crime bosses in American history. Gotti’s rise from a loyal soldier to Boss of Bosses, and ultimately to his sentencing to life imprisonment after being betrayed by his underboss, Sammy Gravano, is legendary.
The story being packaged as a limited series will differ from past incarnations of Gotti...
- 7/29/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Welcome to this week’s “Just for Variety.”
When the announcement came that “Magic Mike’s Last Dance,” the third movie in Channing Tatum’s male stripper franchise, had the greenlight, it was revealed the film would premiere directly on HBO Max. However, director Steven Soderbergh says a theatrical run is still on the table. “We’re talking about it,” Soderbergh told me recently while promoting the “Magic Mike Live” tour, which makes its North American debut in Miami in October. “It’s certainly hard to argue that this isn’t a movie that’s best seen in a theater, because we have the data. People, primarily women, were going in packs, in large groups, to see the ‘Magic Mike’ movies.”
Soderbergh returns as director after helming the first “M.M.” (the second was directed by Gregory Jacobs). “That’s the discussion with Warners right now — can we eventize this?...
When the announcement came that “Magic Mike’s Last Dance,” the third movie in Channing Tatum’s male stripper franchise, had the greenlight, it was revealed the film would premiere directly on HBO Max. However, director Steven Soderbergh says a theatrical run is still on the table. “We’re talking about it,” Soderbergh told me recently while promoting the “Magic Mike Live” tour, which makes its North American debut in Miami in October. “It’s certainly hard to argue that this isn’t a movie that’s best seen in a theater, because we have the data. People, primarily women, were going in packs, in large groups, to see the ‘Magic Mike’ movies.”
Soderbergh returns as director after helming the first “M.M.” (the second was directed by Gregory Jacobs). “That’s the discussion with Warners right now — can we eventize this?...
- 7/20/2022
- by Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
Author and Tfh Guru Dennis Lehane joins Josh and Joe to discuss a few of his favorite movies.
Show Notes: Movies Referenced In This Episode
Gremlins (1984) – Glenn Erickson’s 4K Blu-ray review, Tfh’s Mogwai Madness
Home Alone (1990)
Mystic River (2003)
Shutter Island (2010)
Live By Night (2016)
Gone Baby Gone (2007)
The Drop (2014)
The Shining (1980) – Adam Rifkin’s trailer commentary
Apocalypse Now (1979) – Josh Olson’s trailer commentary
Apocalypse Now: Redux (2001)
Apocalypse Now: Final Cut (2019) – Glenn Erickson’s Blu-ray review
The Crying Game (1992)
Diner (1982)
Sweet Smell of Success (1957) – John Landis’s trailer commentary
American Graffiti (1973) – Allan Arkush’s trailer commentary
Body Heat (1981) – Dan Ireland’s trailer commentary
Blue Velvet (1986) – Josh Olson’s trailer commentary, Charlie Largent’s Criterion Blu-ray review
Raging Bull (1980) – Dan Perri’s trailer commentary
Picnic At Hanging Rock (1975)
Star Wars (1977)
Star Wars: The Special Edition (1997)
Manhunter (1986) – Josh Olson’s trailer commentary
Public Enemies (2009)
Last of the Mohicans (1992)
Miller’s Crossing (1990) – Josh Olson...
Show Notes: Movies Referenced In This Episode
Gremlins (1984) – Glenn Erickson’s 4K Blu-ray review, Tfh’s Mogwai Madness
Home Alone (1990)
Mystic River (2003)
Shutter Island (2010)
Live By Night (2016)
Gone Baby Gone (2007)
The Drop (2014)
The Shining (1980) – Adam Rifkin’s trailer commentary
Apocalypse Now (1979) – Josh Olson’s trailer commentary
Apocalypse Now: Redux (2001)
Apocalypse Now: Final Cut (2019) – Glenn Erickson’s Blu-ray review
The Crying Game (1992)
Diner (1982)
Sweet Smell of Success (1957) – John Landis’s trailer commentary
American Graffiti (1973) – Allan Arkush’s trailer commentary
Body Heat (1981) – Dan Ireland’s trailer commentary
Blue Velvet (1986) – Josh Olson’s trailer commentary, Charlie Largent’s Criterion Blu-ray review
Raging Bull (1980) – Dan Perri’s trailer commentary
Picnic At Hanging Rock (1975)
Star Wars (1977)
Star Wars: The Special Edition (1997)
Manhunter (1986) – Josh Olson’s trailer commentary
Public Enemies (2009)
Last of the Mohicans (1992)
Miller’s Crossing (1990) – Josh Olson...
- 6/28/2022
- by Kris Millsap
- Trailers from Hell
Veteran Hollywood multi-hyphenate George Gallo is attached to direct “Gambino,” a high-end biopic about organized crime boss Carlo Gambino that Gallo is co-writing with two-time Oscar winner Nick Vallelonga (“Green Book”).
The ambitious project, announced in Cannes, is being lead produced by Julius R. Nasso, also a Hollywood veteran, best known for his production partnership with Steven Seagal that went sour. Nasso more recently shepherded “Narc,” and is among producers of Susanne Rostock’s Harry Belafonte doc “Sing Your Song.”
Nasso has acquired rights to the novel “Gambino: The Rise” by Pierre James which delves into the U.S. story of Cosa Nostra starting from its roots in Italy and the role played by Carlo Gambino, who was its boss from 1957 until his death in 1976 of natural causes in his Massapequa, Long Island, home.
“I have known this story all my life,” Gallo told Variety, speaking from Los Angeles.
Gallo...
The ambitious project, announced in Cannes, is being lead produced by Julius R. Nasso, also a Hollywood veteran, best known for his production partnership with Steven Seagal that went sour. Nasso more recently shepherded “Narc,” and is among producers of Susanne Rostock’s Harry Belafonte doc “Sing Your Song.”
Nasso has acquired rights to the novel “Gambino: The Rise” by Pierre James which delves into the U.S. story of Cosa Nostra starting from its roots in Italy and the role played by Carlo Gambino, who was its boss from 1957 until his death in 1976 of natural causes in his Massapequa, Long Island, home.
“I have known this story all my life,” Gallo told Variety, speaking from Los Angeles.
Gallo...
- 5/26/2022
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
Frank Pesce, a character actor who appeared in the first two “Beverly Hills Cop” movies, “Top Gun,” “Midnight Run” and “Miami Vice,” died on Feb. 6 due to dementia complications. He was 75.
Born in 1946 in New York City, Pesce’s circle of friends included Sylvester Stallone, Tony Danza and Robert Forster, among others. Known for his big smile and colorful personality, Pesce first appeared on screen in 1976 as a guest star on “Police Story.” Throughout his career, he appeared on other series such as “Kojak,” “Knight Rider,” “Blue Thunder,” “The Greatest American Hero,” “Matlock,” “Who’s the Boss?” and “The Master.”
Pesce landed small roles in Stallone films “Rocky” and “Paradise Alley,” as well as Don Simpson and Jerry Bruckheimer’s smash hits “Flashdance” and “Top Gun.”
In a statement to Variety, Pesce’s girlfriend Tammy Scher said, “I met Frank at a very low point in my life. He always said...
Born in 1946 in New York City, Pesce’s circle of friends included Sylvester Stallone, Tony Danza and Robert Forster, among others. Known for his big smile and colorful personality, Pesce first appeared on screen in 1976 as a guest star on “Police Story.” Throughout his career, he appeared on other series such as “Kojak,” “Knight Rider,” “Blue Thunder,” “The Greatest American Hero,” “Matlock,” “Who’s the Boss?” and “The Master.”
Pesce landed small roles in Stallone films “Rocky” and “Paradise Alley,” as well as Don Simpson and Jerry Bruckheimer’s smash hits “Flashdance” and “Top Gun.”
In a statement to Variety, Pesce’s girlfriend Tammy Scher said, “I met Frank at a very low point in my life. He always said...
- 2/16/2022
- by Ethan Shanfeld
- Variety Film + TV
Frank Pesce, a colorful character actor whose dozens of credits range from Beverly Hills Cop, Top Gun and Midnight Run to Miami Vice, Matlock and Kojak, has died. He was 75.
His girlfriend Tammy Scher told Deadline that Pesce died February 6 in Burbank of dementia complications.
Born on December 8, 1946, in New York City, Pesce put the “character” in character actor. A longtime close friend of Sylvester Stallone, Tony Danza, the late Robert Forster and many other industry players, he was known for his big smile, big stories and bigger personality.
“They make movies about guys like me,” he always said. That quote — more about it below — will be written on his epitaph, Scher said.
Pesce began his screen career in the mid-1970s, guesting on such series as Police Story and Kojak and playing bit roles in the early Stallone films Rocky and Paradise Alley. He went on to work in...
His girlfriend Tammy Scher told Deadline that Pesce died February 6 in Burbank of dementia complications.
Born on December 8, 1946, in New York City, Pesce put the “character” in character actor. A longtime close friend of Sylvester Stallone, Tony Danza, the late Robert Forster and many other industry players, he was known for his big smile, big stories and bigger personality.
“They make movies about guys like me,” he always said. That quote — more about it below — will be written on his epitaph, Scher said.
Pesce began his screen career in the mid-1970s, guesting on such series as Police Story and Kojak and playing bit roles in the early Stallone films Rocky and Paradise Alley. He went on to work in...
- 2/16/2022
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
The next edition of Universal’s 1988 cult classic comedy Midnight Run is finally happening after fits and starts throughout the years this time as a sequel we’re told. Regina Hall is set to star and produce in the feature which is being written by Brooklyn Nine-Nine scribe Aeysha Carr and also produced by Jesse Collins.
The details of the new version are being kept under wraps. The original movie marked multi-Oscar winner Robert De Niro’s pivot into broad mainstream comedy, the actor playing Jack Walsh, a bounty hunter whose job it is to collect mob accountant, Jonathan Mardukas, played by the late Charles Grodin, and get him to Los Angeles. The only thing is the accountant can’t fly, putting the easily irritable bounty hunter and fastidious accountant on an endless road trip in which they’re pursued by the Feds and a rival bounty hunter, Marvin Dorfler,...
The details of the new version are being kept under wraps. The original movie marked multi-Oscar winner Robert De Niro’s pivot into broad mainstream comedy, the actor playing Jack Walsh, a bounty hunter whose job it is to collect mob accountant, Jonathan Mardukas, played by the late Charles Grodin, and get him to Los Angeles. The only thing is the accountant can’t fly, putting the easily irritable bounty hunter and fastidious accountant on an endless road trip in which they’re pursued by the Feds and a rival bounty hunter, Marvin Dorfler,...
- 11/8/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Redbox Entertainment has picked up North American distribution rights to Muti, the action-thriller starring Oscar winner Morgan Freeman (Million Dollar Baby) and Yellowstone star Cole Hauser.
As we first revealed, Muti heralds from writer-director George Gallo (Bad Boys) and producers Iervolino & Lady Bacardi Entertainment (Waiting For The Barbarians). Above is a first look image of the production.
The film follows Detective Boyd (Hauser), who, unable to process the death of his daughter, embarks on the hunt for a serial killer who murders according to a brutal tribal ritual: Muti. The only person who can help Boyd is Professor Mackles (Freeman), an anthropologist who hides an unspeakable secret. The line between sanity and madness thins as Boyd goes deeper into the killer’s world.
Supporting cast includes Peter Stormare (Fargo) and former NFL player Vernon Davis.
Principal photography recently wrapped in Mississippi and will continue in Italy. The screenplay is written by Bob Bowersox,...
As we first revealed, Muti heralds from writer-director George Gallo (Bad Boys) and producers Iervolino & Lady Bacardi Entertainment (Waiting For The Barbarians). Above is a first look image of the production.
The film follows Detective Boyd (Hauser), who, unable to process the death of his daughter, embarks on the hunt for a serial killer who murders according to a brutal tribal ritual: Muti. The only person who can help Boyd is Professor Mackles (Freeman), an anthropologist who hides an unspeakable secret. The line between sanity and madness thins as Boyd goes deeper into the killer’s world.
Supporting cast includes Peter Stormare (Fargo) and former NFL player Vernon Davis.
Principal photography recently wrapped in Mississippi and will continue in Italy. The screenplay is written by Bob Bowersox,...
- 9/8/2021
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Morgan Freeman and “Yellowstone’s” Cole Hauser are set to star in an action thriller called “Muti” from director George Gallo.
The feature film follows a detective (Hauser) who is unable to process the death of his daughter and embarks on a hunt for a serial killer who kills based on a brutal tribal ritual known as Muti. He recruits the help of a professor and African anthropologist (Freeman) who hides an unspeakable secret but allows him to go deeper into the killer’s world, which reveals that one man’s insanity is another man’s religion.
The screenplay was written by Bob Bowersox, Jennifer Lemmon, Francesco Cinquemani, Giorgia Iannone, Luca Giliberto and Ferdinando Dell’Omo. “Muti” is based on a story by Joe Lemmon and Francesco Cinquemani.
The film’s producers are Joe Lemmon of Black Diamond Films, Andrea Iervolino, Monika Bacardi and Danielle Maloni of Iervolino & Lady Bacardi Entertainment Spa,...
The feature film follows a detective (Hauser) who is unable to process the death of his daughter and embarks on a hunt for a serial killer who kills based on a brutal tribal ritual known as Muti. He recruits the help of a professor and African anthropologist (Freeman) who hides an unspeakable secret but allows him to go deeper into the killer’s world, which reveals that one man’s insanity is another man’s religion.
The screenplay was written by Bob Bowersox, Jennifer Lemmon, Francesco Cinquemani, Giorgia Iannone, Luca Giliberto and Ferdinando Dell’Omo. “Muti” is based on a story by Joe Lemmon and Francesco Cinquemani.
The film’s producers are Joe Lemmon of Black Diamond Films, Andrea Iervolino, Monika Bacardi and Danielle Maloni of Iervolino & Lady Bacardi Entertainment Spa,...
- 8/17/2021
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Oscar winner Morgan Freeman (Million Dollar Baby) and Yellowstone star Cole Hauser have been set to lead action-thriller Muti from writer-director George Gallo (Bad Boys) and producers Iervolino & Lady Bacardi Entertainment (Waiting for the Barbarians).
The film will follow Detective Boyd (Hauser), who, unable to process the death of his daughter, embarks on a hunt for a serial killer who murders according to a brutal tribal ritual: Muti. The only person who can help Boyd is Professor Mackles (Freeman), an anthropologist who hides an unspeakable secret. The line between sanity and madness thins as Boyd goes deeper into the killer’s world.
The supporting cast will include Peter Stormare (Fargo) and former NFL tight end-turned-actor Vernon Davis, a Super Bowl winner and two-time Pro Bowler.
Filming is due to take place in Mississippi and Italy. The Exchange will introduce the project to international buyers during TIFF.
The screenplay was written by Bob Bowersox,...
The film will follow Detective Boyd (Hauser), who, unable to process the death of his daughter, embarks on a hunt for a serial killer who murders according to a brutal tribal ritual: Muti. The only person who can help Boyd is Professor Mackles (Freeman), an anthropologist who hides an unspeakable secret. The line between sanity and madness thins as Boyd goes deeper into the killer’s world.
The supporting cast will include Peter Stormare (Fargo) and former NFL tight end-turned-actor Vernon Davis, a Super Bowl winner and two-time Pro Bowler.
Filming is due to take place in Mississippi and Italy. The Exchange will introduce the project to international buyers during TIFF.
The screenplay was written by Bob Bowersox,...
- 8/17/2021
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Rick Aiello, actor and son of Oscar nominee Danny Aiello, died of pancreatic cancer on Monday at a hospital in Warwick, N.Y., his niece Sydney Fingerhut told Variety. He was 65.
Fingerhut remembers him as a great uncle who was close to all his nieces and nephews, and a “strong guy.”
With more than 60 acting credits, Aiello followed in his father’s footsteps, appearing alongside him in Spike Lee’s 1989 classic “Do the Right Thing.” His father earned an Oscar nomination for his portrayal of Salvatore “Sal” Fragione and Aiello played Officer Long, a role he’d reprise a couple years later in Lee’s “Jungle Fever.”
Aiello also starred in films, including Christian Maelen’s “Remedy” and George Gallo’s “29th Street,” and toplined the TV series “Dellaventura” and the movie “A Brooklyn State of Mind” opposite his dad. As a character actor, Aiello had roles in shows such as “The Sopranos,...
Fingerhut remembers him as a great uncle who was close to all his nieces and nephews, and a “strong guy.”
With more than 60 acting credits, Aiello followed in his father’s footsteps, appearing alongside him in Spike Lee’s 1989 classic “Do the Right Thing.” His father earned an Oscar nomination for his portrayal of Salvatore “Sal” Fragione and Aiello played Officer Long, a role he’d reprise a couple years later in Lee’s “Jungle Fever.”
Aiello also starred in films, including Christian Maelen’s “Remedy” and George Gallo’s “29th Street,” and toplined the TV series “Dellaventura” and the movie “A Brooklyn State of Mind” opposite his dad. As a character actor, Aiello had roles in shows such as “The Sopranos,...
- 7/27/2021
- by Ethan Shanfeld
- Variety Film + TV
A sequel to the 1996 TV movie "Gotti" about mobster John Gotti is in the works, with Nick Vallelonga (who co-wrote and produced "Green Book") and George Gallo (who wrote "Midnight Run") signed on to write.
Armand Assante, who won an Emmy for a Lead Actor in a Miniseries or a Special for his portrayal in the original, is set to reprise his title role in "Gotti 2: The Final Chapter, Facts Undisputed." The news was announced by the sequel's executive producer Michael Mota at the MobMovieCon event in Atlantic City Friday.
The 1996 film "Gotti" and this latest sequel is not to be confused with the 2018 John Travolta film "Gotti," which famously scored a 0% on Rotten Tomatoes and stands as one of the review aggregator's worst reviewed movies of all time.
The TV movie "Gotti: The Rise and Fall of a Real Life Mafia Don" aired on HBO and was a...
Armand Assante, who won an Emmy for a Lead Actor in a Miniseries or a Special for his portrayal in the original, is set to reprise his title role in "Gotti 2: The Final Chapter, Facts Undisputed." The news was announced by the sequel's executive producer Michael Mota at the MobMovieCon event in Atlantic City Friday.
The 1996 film "Gotti" and this latest sequel is not to be confused with the 2018 John Travolta film "Gotti," which famously scored a 0% on Rotten Tomatoes and stands as one of the review aggregator's worst reviewed movies of all time.
The TV movie "Gotti: The Rise and Fall of a Real Life Mafia Don" aired on HBO and was a...
- 7/24/2021
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
The Disney title will aim to shift ‘Peter Rabbit 2’ from the top spot.
Disney’s Cruella becomes the first title to debut in over 500 locations since UK cinemas reopened, as the number of releases grows following last weekend’s strong box office showing.
There are 10 new films debuting in UK cinemas today, plus an additional one which opened on Wednesday. This is up on the five that opened last Friday; at least 11 films did come out on Monday 17 when cinemas reopened, although several of these had previously been released on VoD during the shutdown.
Cruella will be available on...
Disney’s Cruella becomes the first title to debut in over 500 locations since UK cinemas reopened, as the number of releases grows following last weekend’s strong box office showing.
There are 10 new films debuting in UK cinemas today, plus an additional one which opened on Wednesday. This is up on the five that opened last Friday; at least 11 films did come out on Monday 17 when cinemas reopened, although several of these had previously been released on VoD during the shutdown.
Cruella will be available on...
- 5/28/2021
- by Ben Dalton
- ScreenDaily
“See ya in the next life,” The Duke and Jack Walsh say to each other near the end of Midnight Run, one the moviedom’s great buddy-action flicks. Charles Grodin, who played bail-jumping mob accountant John “The Duke” Mardukas in the 1988 film, died today at 86. His co-star, two-time Oscar winner Robert De Niro, paid tribute to the late actor today.
“Chuck was as good a person as he was an actor,” De Niro said in a statement. “Midnight Run was a great project to work on, and Chuck made it an even better one. He will be missed. I am very, very sad to hear of his passing.”
Midnight Run also was a great project to watch.
Charles Grodin: A Career In Pictures – Photo Gallery
Directed by Martin Brest from an underrated screenplay by George Gallo, the movie follows De Niro’s Walsh, a cop-turned-bounty hunter who is offered a...
“Chuck was as good a person as he was an actor,” De Niro said in a statement. “Midnight Run was a great project to work on, and Chuck made it an even better one. He will be missed. I am very, very sad to hear of his passing.”
Midnight Run also was a great project to watch.
Charles Grodin: A Career In Pictures – Photo Gallery
Directed by Martin Brest from an underrated screenplay by George Gallo, the movie follows De Niro’s Walsh, a cop-turned-bounty hunter who is offered a...
- 5/18/2021
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
Not Without My Daughter: Gallo Blunders with Absurd Thriller
The appeal of beholding a train wreck is assuredly a vibe based upon the morbid yet innate curiosity such tragedies inspire in humans. In a metaphorical sense, a film which earns a facetious comparison to the trauma of a vehicular accident can tend to court a cult audience, most often when accidental entertainment is the result.
Longtime Hollywood scribe and director George Gallo, who penned the 1988 comedy classic Midnight Run and received story credit for 1995’s Bad Boys, lassos Morgan Freeman for a third time in the risible Vanquish, a Z-grade action thriller penned by Samuel Bartlett (originally written in 2014).…...
The appeal of beholding a train wreck is assuredly a vibe based upon the morbid yet innate curiosity such tragedies inspire in humans. In a metaphorical sense, a film which earns a facetious comparison to the trauma of a vehicular accident can tend to court a cult audience, most often when accidental entertainment is the result.
Longtime Hollywood scribe and director George Gallo, who penned the 1988 comedy classic Midnight Run and received story credit for 1995’s Bad Boys, lassos Morgan Freeman for a third time in the risible Vanquish, a Z-grade action thriller penned by Samuel Bartlett (originally written in 2014).…...
- 4/23/2021
- by Nicholas Bell
- IONCINEMA.com
Sebastian Stan and Denise Gough set off on a whirlwind weekend romance in Monday, a romantic drama that IFC Films released in theaters and on-demand Friday.
It’s the fourth feature from director Argyris Papadimitropoulos, who also wrote and produced the film.
Here is the plot: When Mickey (Stan) is dragged away from his DJ set by a drunken friend and introduced to Chloe (Gough) one hot summer night in Athens, the attraction between the pair is immediately palpable. So palpable that before they know it they’re waking up naked on the beach Saturday morning. And so it goes that a one-night stand on Friday turns into a whirlwind weekend romance that leads to serious conversations when they face the harsh sunlight on Monday morning.
The pic was an official selection at the 2020 Tribeca Film Festival and the 2020 Toronto Film Festival. Check out the trailer below.
Oscar-winner Morgan Freeman...
It’s the fourth feature from director Argyris Papadimitropoulos, who also wrote and produced the film.
Here is the plot: When Mickey (Stan) is dragged away from his DJ set by a drunken friend and introduced to Chloe (Gough) one hot summer night in Athens, the attraction between the pair is immediately palpable. So palpable that before they know it they’re waking up naked on the beach Saturday morning. And so it goes that a one-night stand on Friday turns into a whirlwind weekend romance that leads to serious conversations when they face the harsh sunlight on Monday morning.
The pic was an official selection at the 2020 Tribeca Film Festival and the 2020 Toronto Film Festival. Check out the trailer below.
Oscar-winner Morgan Freeman...
- 4/16/2021
- by Amanda N'Duka
- Deadline Film + TV
Early on in “Vanquish,” Ruby Rose as Morgan Freeman’s improbable housekeeper is very awkwardly chopping some vegetable — the awkwardness providing a rare plausible moment, as Rose seems an even less likely maker-of-dinner than she does slayer-of-many-criminal-goons. If she’d kept slicing that carrot or whatever for the remaining 90 minutes here, the results would have been approximately as exciting as the high-body-count action occupying most of veteran writer-director George Gallo’s feature.
“Vanquish” isn’t bad so much as inert — nothing here is convincing, tense, kinetic, outrageous, or silly enough to give the movie even fleeting life. The script is so by-the-numbers, the performers can hardly hide their disinterest, a feeling soon to be shared by viewers lured by the promise of these stars in a violent revenge tale. Lionsgate opens it in select theaters April 16, followed by on demand and digital release four days later.
Newspaper headlines under the...
“Vanquish” isn’t bad so much as inert — nothing here is convincing, tense, kinetic, outrageous, or silly enough to give the movie even fleeting life. The script is so by-the-numbers, the performers can hardly hide their disinterest, a feeling soon to be shared by viewers lured by the promise of these stars in a violent revenge tale. Lionsgate opens it in select theaters April 16, followed by on demand and digital release four days later.
Newspaper headlines under the...
- 4/15/2021
- by Dennis Harvey
- Variety Film + TV
“I hear you kill more people than Quentin Tarantino,” observes one of the many dispensable villains in the new action-thriller directed and co-written by George Gallo. It’s an unfortunate line. Not simply because it isn’t very funny, but also because it reminds viewers of so many earlier, far better examples of the overworked genre.
Vanquish stars Morgan Freeman — who’s apparently reached the “show up for the paycheck” stage of his career, already firmly occupied by the likes of Nicolas Cage, Bruce Willis and John Travolta — and Ruby Rose, fresh off her single-season stint ...
Vanquish stars Morgan Freeman — who’s apparently reached the “show up for the paycheck” stage of his career, already firmly occupied by the likes of Nicolas Cage, Bruce Willis and John Travolta — and Ruby Rose, fresh off her single-season stint ...
- 4/14/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
“I hear you kill more people than Quentin Tarantino,” observes one of the many dispensable villains in the new action-thriller directed and co-written by George Gallo. It’s an unfortunate line. Not simply because it isn’t very funny, but also because it reminds viewers of so many earlier, far better examples of the overworked genre.
Vanquish stars Morgan Freeman — who’s apparently reached the “show up for the paycheck” stage of his career, already firmly occupied by the likes of Nicolas Cage, Bruce Willis and John Travolta — and Ruby Rose, fresh off her single-season stint ...
Vanquish stars Morgan Freeman — who’s apparently reached the “show up for the paycheck” stage of his career, already firmly occupied by the likes of Nicolas Cage, Bruce Willis and John Travolta — and Ruby Rose, fresh off her single-season stint ...
- 4/14/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Vanquish starring Morgan Freeman and Ruby Rose will be available in Select Theaters on April 16th and on Apple TV, and everywhere you rent movies on April 20th. The trailer looks thrilling:
From the director of Double Take, Middle Men, and The Poison Rose comes this stylish, glossy action-thriller starring Morgan Freeman (Se7en) and Ruby Rose (“Orange Is the New Black”) that shows what desperation can drive a person to do. A mother, Victoria (Rose), is trying to put her dark past as a Russian drug courier behind her, but retired cop Damon (Freeman) forces Victoria to do his bidding by holding her daughter hostage. Now, Victoria must use guns, guts, and a motorcycle to take out a series of violent gangsters — or she may never see her child again.
Anquish stars Morgan Freeman and Ruby Rose, is directed By George Gallo, with a screenplay By George Gallo and Sam Bartlett.
From the director of Double Take, Middle Men, and The Poison Rose comes this stylish, glossy action-thriller starring Morgan Freeman (Se7en) and Ruby Rose (“Orange Is the New Black”) that shows what desperation can drive a person to do. A mother, Victoria (Rose), is trying to put her dark past as a Russian drug courier behind her, but retired cop Damon (Freeman) forces Victoria to do his bidding by holding her daughter hostage. Now, Victoria must use guns, guts, and a motorcycle to take out a series of violent gangsters — or she may never see her child again.
Anquish stars Morgan Freeman and Ruby Rose, is directed By George Gallo, with a screenplay By George Gallo and Sam Bartlett.
- 4/1/2021
- by Tom Stockman
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
On Sunday, Batwoman showrunner Caroline Dries confirmed that actress Wallis Day would be joining the cast as Kate Kane, taking over the role previously held by Ruby Rose. And now, Rose has taken to Instagram to share that she is “stoked” for Day.
“I’m sorry I didn’t congratulate @wallisday yesterday,” Rose said on Instagram, in response to a photo tribute to her version of Kane. “I knew about the casting beforehand and didn’t know when it aired so I forgot to.
“I’m seeing all the things I’m tagged in with people sad or wondering how I felt,” she added. “I feel great I have nothing but good vibes.”
In Season 1, Rose led the cast of the CW series, exploring Kane’s decision to become Batwoman in the absence of her vigilante cousin, Bruce Wayne (aka Batman). The recasting of her role had been long anticipated,...
“I’m sorry I didn’t congratulate @wallisday yesterday,” Rose said on Instagram, in response to a photo tribute to her version of Kane. “I knew about the casting beforehand and didn’t know when it aired so I forgot to.
“I’m seeing all the things I’m tagged in with people sad or wondering how I felt,” she added. “I feel great I have nothing but good vibes.”
In Season 1, Rose led the cast of the CW series, exploring Kane’s decision to become Batwoman in the absence of her vigilante cousin, Bruce Wayne (aka Batman). The recasting of her role had been long anticipated,...
- 3/23/2021
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Presents On Demand And Digital: April 23, 2021 On Blu-ray And DVD: April 27, 2021 Starring Morgan Freeman, Ruby Rose Directed By George Gallo Screenplay By George Gallo and Sam Bartlett Synopsis From the director of Double Take, Middle Men, and The Poison Rose comes this stylish, glossy action-thriller starring Morgan Freeman …
The post Official Trailer and Poster -Vanquish starring Morgan Freeman and Ruby Rose – On Demand and Digital April 23rd appeared first on Horror News | Hnn.
The post Official Trailer and Poster -Vanquish starring Morgan Freeman and Ruby Rose – On Demand and Digital April 23rd appeared first on Horror News | Hnn.
- 3/15/2021
- by Adrian Halen
- Horror News
Lionsgate Movies had debuted a new trailer for the action-thriller from George Gallo’s ‘Vanquish’.
From the director of Double Take, Middle Men, and The Poison Rose comes this, glossy action-thriller starring Morgan Freeman (Se7en) and Ruby Rose (“Orange Is the New Black”) that shows what desperation can drive a person to do.
A mother, Victoria (Rose), is trying to put her dark past as a Russian drug courier behind her, but retired cop Damon (Freeman) forces Victoria to do his bidding by holding her daughter hostage. Now, Victoria must use guns, guts, and a motorcycle to take out a series of violent gangsters — or she may never see her child again.
Directed by George Gallo. the film stars Morgan Freeman, Ruby Rose.
Also in trailers – New trailer drops for ‘Chaos Walking’ as April 2nd UK release date announced
The film is released in the US On Demand and...
From the director of Double Take, Middle Men, and The Poison Rose comes this, glossy action-thriller starring Morgan Freeman (Se7en) and Ruby Rose (“Orange Is the New Black”) that shows what desperation can drive a person to do.
A mother, Victoria (Rose), is trying to put her dark past as a Russian drug courier behind her, but retired cop Damon (Freeman) forces Victoria to do his bidding by holding her daughter hostage. Now, Victoria must use guns, guts, and a motorcycle to take out a series of violent gangsters — or she may never see her child again.
Directed by George Gallo. the film stars Morgan Freeman, Ruby Rose.
Also in trailers – New trailer drops for ‘Chaos Walking’ as April 2nd UK release date announced
The film is released in the US On Demand and...
- 3/11/2021
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
"You know who she is – just stay out of her way!" Lionsgate has unveiled a full trailer for an action movie called Vanquish, yet another of these dime-a-dozen bland action features with derivative plots. From the director of Double Take, Middle Men, and The Poison Rose comes this stylish, glossy action-thriller starring Morgan Freeman and Ruby Rose that shows what desperation can drive a person to do. A young mother is trying to put her dark past as a Russian drug courier behind her, but retired cop Damon forces Victoria to do his bidding by holding her daughter hostage. It also stars Patrick Muldoon, Julie Lott, Ekaterina Baker, Nick Vallelonga, Joel Michaely, and Miles Doleac. This doesn't look terrible, but doesn't look so great either. Freeman and Rose are cool to see in this, but that doesn't automatically make it a good film. Here's the official trailer (+ poster) for George Gallo's Vanquish,...
- 3/10/2021
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
Exclusive: Paul Ben-Victor is set to join Harvey Keitel, Emile Hirsch and Ruby Rose in the George Gallo-directed mobster drama The Legitimate Wise Guy, which tells the true story of Tony Spilotro, a feared mob enforcer from the crime syndicate known as the Chicago Outfit. Ben-Victor will step into the role of Spilotro.
Based on an original screenplay by Nicholas Celozzi and Jim McGrath, the film chronicles Spilotro, who ran the Chicago Outfit which rose to power in the 1920s under the notorious Al Capone. Spilotro overlooked the outfit’s skimming operations in Las Vegas. While there, he met a young man aspiring to make it big in Hollywood as an actor. The mob boss mentors and lures him into his criminal world.
Celozzi serves as producer for Monaco Films alongside Richard Salvatore for March on Productions. Michael Sportelli of Monaco Films and Freddy Braidy serve as executive producers.
Based on an original screenplay by Nicholas Celozzi and Jim McGrath, the film chronicles Spilotro, who ran the Chicago Outfit which rose to power in the 1920s under the notorious Al Capone. Spilotro overlooked the outfit’s skimming operations in Las Vegas. While there, he met a young man aspiring to make it big in Hollywood as an actor. The mob boss mentors and lures him into his criminal world.
Celozzi serves as producer for Monaco Films alongside Richard Salvatore for March on Productions. Michael Sportelli of Monaco Films and Freddy Braidy serve as executive producers.
- 3/1/2021
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
Harvey Keitel, Emile Hirsch and Ruby Rose are to star in upcoming gangster drama The Legitimate Wise Guy.
The film — being introduced to buyers at the upcoming virtual 2021 European Film Market by The Exchange — is set to tell the true story of Anthony Spilotro, considered one of the most feared enforcers to come out of the notorious crime syndicate known as the Chicago Outfit (which rose to power in the 1920s under Al Capone). Spilotro ran the outfit’s casino skimming operations in Las Vegas, where he would meet a young man dreaming of becoming a Hollywood actor. Seeing ...
The film — being introduced to buyers at the upcoming virtual 2021 European Film Market by The Exchange — is set to tell the true story of Anthony Spilotro, considered one of the most feared enforcers to come out of the notorious crime syndicate known as the Chicago Outfit (which rose to power in the 1920s under Al Capone). Spilotro ran the outfit’s casino skimming operations in Las Vegas, where he would meet a young man dreaming of becoming a Hollywood actor. Seeing ...
- 2/19/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Ruby Rose, Ekaterina Baker, Nick Vallelonga also in the cast.
Signature Entertainment has acquired UK-Ireland rights to George Gallo’s thriller Vanquish, starring Morgan Freeman, from Los Angeles-based Blue Box.
The film stars Freeman as a retired police commissioner who blackmails his caretaker into helping double-cross a team of dirty detectives by kidnapping her daughter.
The cast also includes Ruby Rose, Ekaterina Baker and Nick Vallelonga. The latter is the co-writer on 2019 Oscar best picture winner Green Book.
Vanquish shot in Mississippi, US in autumn 2020. Director Gallo’s previous credits include writing 1988 Robert De Niro crime comedy Midnight Run, and...
Signature Entertainment has acquired UK-Ireland rights to George Gallo’s thriller Vanquish, starring Morgan Freeman, from Los Angeles-based Blue Box.
The film stars Freeman as a retired police commissioner who blackmails his caretaker into helping double-cross a team of dirty detectives by kidnapping her daughter.
The cast also includes Ruby Rose, Ekaterina Baker and Nick Vallelonga. The latter is the co-writer on 2019 Oscar best picture winner Green Book.
Vanquish shot in Mississippi, US in autumn 2020. Director Gallo’s previous credits include writing 1988 Robert De Niro crime comedy Midnight Run, and...
- 2/16/2021
- by Ben Dalton
- ScreenDaily
Wine has famously inspired feature films and docs (Sideways, Somm). Add in entertainment-themed wines (The Walking Dead wine) and clubs (like TCM’s wine club), and even more celeb-backed bottles swirling around right now, and it’s clear that vino and film go hand in hand.
But it’s likely that no one has ever released a new wine brand alongside producing a wine-focused film. Enter producer Gene Kirkwood (Rocky, The Defiant Ones), writer-director George Gallo (The Comeback Trail, Bad Boys) and Broadway producer Kevin Kinsella (Jersey Boys), who are prepping a canned wine called Chasing Crush alongside a movie of the same name ...
But it’s likely that no one has ever released a new wine brand alongside producing a wine-focused film. Enter producer Gene Kirkwood (Rocky, The Defiant Ones), writer-director George Gallo (The Comeback Trail, Bad Boys) and Broadway producer Kevin Kinsella (Jersey Boys), who are prepping a canned wine called Chasing Crush alongside a movie of the same name ...
- 2/14/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Wine has famously inspired feature films and docs (Sideways, Somm). Add in entertainment-themed wines (The Walking Dead wine) and clubs (like TCM’s wine club), and even more celeb-backed bottles swirling around right now, and it’s clear that vino and film go hand in hand.
But it’s likely that no one has ever released a new wine brand alongside producing a wine-focused film. Enter producer Gene Kirkwood (Rocky, The Defiant Ones), writer-director George Gallo (The Comeback Trail, Bad Boys) and Broadway producer Kevin Kinsella (Jersey Boys), who are prepping a canned wine called Chasing Crush alongside a movie of the same name ...
But it’s likely that no one has ever released a new wine brand alongside producing a wine-focused film. Enter producer Gene Kirkwood (Rocky, The Defiant Ones), writer-director George Gallo (The Comeback Trail, Bad Boys) and Broadway producer Kevin Kinsella (Jersey Boys), who are prepping a canned wine called Chasing Crush alongside a movie of the same name ...
- 2/14/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Stars: John Travolta, Morgan Freeman, Robert Patrick, Famke Janssen, Peter Stormare, Brendan Fraser | Written and Directed by Francesco Cinquemani, George Gallo
I honestly don’t have a clue why I do it to myself… It seems like the more left-field the synopsis a movie has but it also deatures actors I’m into, the more I want to check it out. In this case the trailer features John Travolta doing some sort of accent I couldn’t quite place and even more exciting it looked like some sort of noir detective thriller complete with an old school narration. To say I was as giddy as a school girl at this prospect would be an understatement! Then the cast names started dropping: Famke Janssen, Robert Patrick, Peter Stormare, Brendan Fraser and Morgan Freeman. Tell me that’s not an exciting cast.
I really do wish Travolta would find his straight-to-dvd niche sooner rather than later.
I honestly don’t have a clue why I do it to myself… It seems like the more left-field the synopsis a movie has but it also deatures actors I’m into, the more I want to check it out. In this case the trailer features John Travolta doing some sort of accent I couldn’t quite place and even more exciting it looked like some sort of noir detective thriller complete with an old school narration. To say I was as giddy as a school girl at this prospect would be an understatement! Then the cast names started dropping: Famke Janssen, Robert Patrick, Peter Stormare, Brendan Fraser and Morgan Freeman. Tell me that’s not an exciting cast.
I really do wish Travolta would find his straight-to-dvd niche sooner rather than later.
- 1/29/2021
- by Kevin Haldon
- Nerdly
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