“Ezra,” the story of a stand-up comic embarking on a road trip with his autistic son, is the kind of movie that Hollywood doesn’t make much anymore. It’s not based on a toy or a comic book; instead it’s a warm-hearted, deeply human story without much in the way of special effects. But the movie, which opened last weekend in the height of summer popcorn season, is exactly what Closer Media, the new film and television company that backed the production, was founded to champion.
“We want to tell stories from all over the world that are meaningful and that can bring people closer together,” says Zhang Xin, noting that Closer’s mission statement is right there in its name. “When a project comes to us, we ask does it move our heart and does it open our eyes?”
It’s a new challenge for Zhang, a...
“We want to tell stories from all over the world that are meaningful and that can bring people closer together,” says Zhang Xin, noting that Closer’s mission statement is right there in its name. “When a project comes to us, we ask does it move our heart and does it open our eyes?”
It’s a new challenge for Zhang, a...
- 6/4/2024
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Another weekend in the books, another reason to be pessimistic about the state of the box office in 2024. We are just coming off of the worst Memorial Day weekend in decades in terms of ticket sales, thanks to weak performances by both "Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga" and "The Garfield Movie." Now? With no meaningfully big movies entering the marketplace, theaters were left to suffer -- so much so that this past weekend now ranks as literally one of the worst weekends the summer box office has experienced in a quarter century.
"The Garfield Movie" held far better than "Furiosa" in its second weekend, as the animated film topped the charts with a $14 million haul. That's good for Sony, but terrible for the industry at large. When we're in the midst of the summer moviegoing season and the number one movie on a given weekend pulls in $14 million, we're in trouble.
"The Garfield Movie" held far better than "Furiosa" in its second weekend, as the animated film topped the charts with a $14 million haul. That's good for Sony, but terrible for the industry at large. When we're in the midst of the summer moviegoing season and the number one movie on a given weekend pulls in $14 million, we're in trouble.
- 6/3/2024
- by Ryan Scott
- Slash Film
Update: (Monday Pm) As noted yesterday, the margin between the 2nd and 3rd place finish for If and Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga was slim, and in the end, after final figures were reported, their positions at the weekend box office flip-flopped. According to the latest numbers via Deadline, Furiosa made $10.785 million to If‘s $10.5. While that’s only a $285k difference, it gives Furiosa a bit of a better finish, allowing it to reclaim second place, although it trails far behind The Garfield Movie‘s first-place finish with $14 million.
Original Post:
The box office outlook for George Miller’s Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga looks pretty bleak. In my box office predictions, I anticipated the film being beaten by The Garfield Movie in its second weekend, but I didn’t think John Krasinski’s If, in week 3, would manage to overtake it at the box office. But,...
Original Post:
The box office outlook for George Miller’s Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga looks pretty bleak. In my box office predictions, I anticipated the film being beaten by The Garfield Movie in its second weekend, but I didn’t think John Krasinski’s If, in week 3, would manage to overtake it at the box office. But,...
- 6/3/2024
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
A new film sits atop the box-office weekend as The Garfield Movie managed to claim the number one slot by the margin of $3.2 million.
After finishing in second place last weekend, The Garfield Movie took over the box-office weekend top ten with $14.0 million in its second weekend of release. This gives the Sony Pictures Releasing offering a two-week tally of $51.6 million, allowing it to finish just $3.2 million ahead of second-place If. The Paramount Pictures product brought in $10.8 million during its third weekend in release, raising its overall total to $80.4 million. Meanwhile, the Warner Bros. film, Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga dropped two spots, after finishing in first place last weekend, to land in third place with $10.7, just $0.1 million behind If. Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes however, held steady in fourth place where it added $8.8 million to raise its four-week total to $140.1 million for 20th Century Studios. Also remaining...
After finishing in second place last weekend, The Garfield Movie took over the box-office weekend top ten with $14.0 million in its second weekend of release. This gives the Sony Pictures Releasing offering a two-week tally of $51.6 million, allowing it to finish just $3.2 million ahead of second-place If. The Paramount Pictures product brought in $10.8 million during its third weekend in release, raising its overall total to $80.4 million. Meanwhile, the Warner Bros. film, Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga dropped two spots, after finishing in first place last weekend, to land in third place with $10.7, just $0.1 million behind If. Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes however, held steady in fourth place where it added $8.8 million to raise its four-week total to $140.1 million for 20th Century Studios. Also remaining...
- 6/3/2024
- by Mike Tyrkus
- CinemaNerdz
Lots of ways to describe how bad it is for theaters. Here’s one: A year ago, the #2 film “The Little Mermaid” grossed $41.4 million; this weekend, the top four films grossed $44.4 million combined.
“The Garfield Movie” (Sony) took over #1 with $14 million and a 10-day total about $2 million better than last week’s #1, “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga.” (Warner Bros.). George Miller’s $160 million-budget prequel dropped 59 percent from a disappointing start and is in a tight battle for #2 with “If” (Paramount). The family fantasy with Ryan Reynolds tentatively stands at $50,000 ahead; to its credit, WB wasn’t aggressive in its estimate. (Tomorrow will tell the actual result).
The good news is that we have touched bottom for the summer, and it will get better from here. Both “Garfield” and “If” had strong holds: “Garfield” dropped 41 percent in its second weekend after a holiday Sunday, and “If” dropped 33 percent and now is at $80 million.
“The Garfield Movie” (Sony) took over #1 with $14 million and a 10-day total about $2 million better than last week’s #1, “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga.” (Warner Bros.). George Miller’s $160 million-budget prequel dropped 59 percent from a disappointing start and is in a tight battle for #2 with “If” (Paramount). The family fantasy with Ryan Reynolds tentatively stands at $50,000 ahead; to its credit, WB wasn’t aggressive in its estimate. (Tomorrow will tell the actual result).
The good news is that we have touched bottom for the summer, and it will get better from here. Both “Garfield” and “If” had strong holds: “Garfield” dropped 41 percent in its second weekend after a holiday Sunday, and “If” dropped 33 percent and now is at $80 million.
- 6/2/2024
- by Tom Brueggemann
- Indiewire
In A Violent Nature, an undead murderous monster’s slow striding through the woods, has generated IFC Films’ second-best opening ever since its indie horror hit Late Night With The Devil in March.
The artsy slasher written and directed by Chris Nash will see an estimated weekend gross of $2.1 million on 1,426 screens, IFC’s widest opening ever, and a no. 8 spot at the domestic box office.
Late Night, by Cameron and Colin Cairnes, which opened to $2.8 million at 1,034 locations, is pushing $10 million. It returns to theaters June 6 and runs through the weekend on about 500 screens.
In A Violent Nature “has been steadily making waves for redefining the classic slasher genre” since its Sundance premiere, said Scott Shooman, head of AMC Networks Film Group, calling Nash’s feature debut “a film that will have a lasting impact in the horror space.”
At 87% with critics on Rotten Tomatoes, the film is one...
The artsy slasher written and directed by Chris Nash will see an estimated weekend gross of $2.1 million on 1,426 screens, IFC’s widest opening ever, and a no. 8 spot at the domestic box office.
Late Night, by Cameron and Colin Cairnes, which opened to $2.8 million at 1,034 locations, is pushing $10 million. It returns to theaters June 6 and runs through the weekend on about 500 screens.
In A Violent Nature “has been steadily making waves for redefining the classic slasher genre” since its Sundance premiere, said Scott Shooman, head of AMC Networks Film Group, calling Nash’s feature debut “a film that will have a lasting impact in the horror space.”
At 87% with critics on Rotten Tomatoes, the film is one...
- 6/2/2024
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
It’s a fairly rare weekend at the box office when there are five new wide releases, but it’s even rare when none of those movies even crack the top six. Read on for the weekend box office report.
After one of the worst Memorial Day weekends in decades, the transition weekend between May and June wasn’t going to be much better with none of the new releases opening in more than 2,000 theaters. That wasn’t helped by the fact that Disney, the one major studio in the mix, decided to dump their latest well-reviewed movie into a few hundred theaters with very little fanfare.
After settling for second place over Memorial Day, Sony Pictures’ animated “The Garfield Movie” moved into first place with an estimated $14 million, down just 42% from its three-day opening weekend, to bring its domestic total to $51.6 million. Overseas, the Chris Pratt-starring family film...
After one of the worst Memorial Day weekends in decades, the transition weekend between May and June wasn’t going to be much better with none of the new releases opening in more than 2,000 theaters. That wasn’t helped by the fact that Disney, the one major studio in the mix, decided to dump their latest well-reviewed movie into a few hundred theaters with very little fanfare.
After settling for second place over Memorial Day, Sony Pictures’ animated “The Garfield Movie” moved into first place with an estimated $14 million, down just 42% from its three-day opening weekend, to bring its domestic total to $51.6 million. Overseas, the Chris Pratt-starring family film...
- 6/2/2024
- by Edward Douglas
- Gold Derby
It’s another bummer of a weekend at the summer of box office, where overall domestic revenue looks to be down 69 percent — no, not a typo — from a year ago as Hollywood and theater owners continue to grapple with a lack of big event pics. And year-to-date revenue is now down 24 percent over last year.
For some, there is reason to smile. Alcon and Sony’s The Garfield Movie easily purred past George Miller’s Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga to top the weekend chart with an estimated $14 million for a domestic tally of $51.6 million. Alcon fully financed the $60 million film, which crossed the $100 million mark overseas for a global tally of $152.2 million.
Furiosa, costing a pricey $168 million to produce, fell a steep 59 percent to $10.8 million, dashing hopes that it could rebound after a disappointing Memorial Day opening. The dystopian epic is also stalling overseas, where it took in only...
For some, there is reason to smile. Alcon and Sony’s The Garfield Movie easily purred past George Miller’s Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga to top the weekend chart with an estimated $14 million for a domestic tally of $51.6 million. Alcon fully financed the $60 million film, which crossed the $100 million mark overseas for a global tally of $152.2 million.
Furiosa, costing a pricey $168 million to produce, fell a steep 59 percent to $10.8 million, dashing hopes that it could rebound after a disappointing Memorial Day opening. The dystopian epic is also stalling overseas, where it took in only...
- 6/2/2024
- by Pamela McClintock
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
“The Garfield Movie” clawed its way to first place, overtaking last weekend’s champion “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” at the domestic box office.
This weekend (unlike last) wasn’t a nail-biter as “Garfield” effortlessly pulled ahead with $14 million from 4,108 theaters in its second weekend of release, while “Furiosa” trailed in third place with $10.7 million from 3,864 venues in its sophomore outing. Now, Sony’s “The Garfield Movie” has grossed $51.5 million in North America and $152 million globally to date. It’s a solid showing for the $60 million-budgeted film. “Furiosa,” the fifth entry in Warner Bros. and director George Miller’s post-apocalyptic “Mad Max” series, has generated $49.6 million domestically and $114 million worldwide. With a $168 million price tag, the R-rated tentpole has a much steeper path to profitability.
Though “Garfield” gets first-place bragging rights, it’s another terrible weekend at the box office with ticket sales a staggering 65% behind the same three-day period in 2023. As a result,...
This weekend (unlike last) wasn’t a nail-biter as “Garfield” effortlessly pulled ahead with $14 million from 4,108 theaters in its second weekend of release, while “Furiosa” trailed in third place with $10.7 million from 3,864 venues in its sophomore outing. Now, Sony’s “The Garfield Movie” has grossed $51.5 million in North America and $152 million globally to date. It’s a solid showing for the $60 million-budgeted film. “Furiosa,” the fifth entry in Warner Bros. and director George Miller’s post-apocalyptic “Mad Max” series, has generated $49.6 million domestically and $114 million worldwide. With a $168 million price tag, the R-rated tentpole has a much steeper path to profitability.
Though “Garfield” gets first-place bragging rights, it’s another terrible weekend at the box office with ticket sales a staggering 65% behind the same three-day period in 2023. As a result,...
- 6/2/2024
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
If the summer box office is ever going to heat up, it’ll have to wait a while longer. In a weekend being led by holdovers, Sony’s “The Garfield Movie” looks to overtake “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” for first place on domestic charts.
The marketplace continues to be dire overall, but Sony is doing well for itself. The studio is also putting out the manga adaptation “Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle” through its anime banner Crunchyroll. Playing in 1,086 locations (including showtimes in a few Imax auditoriums), the high school sports film earned $1.9 million across Friday and preview screenings and looks to take sixth place on domestic charts. It’s just the latest example of how anime has found a niche but dedicated theatrical audience in North America. Not that stateside will make or break “Haikyu!!,” which released in its native Japan back in February and stands as the second-highest...
The marketplace continues to be dire overall, but Sony is doing well for itself. The studio is also putting out the manga adaptation “Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle” through its anime banner Crunchyroll. Playing in 1,086 locations (including showtimes in a few Imax auditoriums), the high school sports film earned $1.9 million across Friday and preview screenings and looks to take sixth place on domestic charts. It’s just the latest example of how anime has found a niche but dedicated theatrical audience in North America. Not that stateside will make or break “Haikyu!!,” which released in its native Japan back in February and stands as the second-highest...
- 6/1/2024
- by J. Kim Murphy
- Variety Film + TV
“Ezra” celebrated its premiere in New York, N.Y., on Thursday with stars Robert De Niro, Rose Byrne, Bobby Cannavale, and Tony Goldwyn all in attendance.
The film is a Bleeker Street Media release that follows Max Bernal (Cannavale), who is a stand-up comedy writer (with scenes filmed at Comedy Cellar) who lives with his dad (De Niro). The comedian faces challenges when it comes to co-parenting their autistic son (William A. Fitzgerald) with his ex-wife (Byrne).
“Ezra” was inspired by the film writer Tony Spiridakis’s personal life, as he has a child who is on the spectrum. “I realized I didn’t know anything about autism, I thought I gotta write this down. Because of the lack of understanding that I had, I kept thinking, every day was a surprise,” Spiridakis told Variety at the film’s premiere.
“I made so many mistakes as a father, I wanted...
The film is a Bleeker Street Media release that follows Max Bernal (Cannavale), who is a stand-up comedy writer (with scenes filmed at Comedy Cellar) who lives with his dad (De Niro). The comedian faces challenges when it comes to co-parenting their autistic son (William A. Fitzgerald) with his ex-wife (Byrne).
“Ezra” was inspired by the film writer Tony Spiridakis’s personal life, as he has a child who is on the spectrum. “I realized I didn’t know anything about autism, I thought I gotta write this down. Because of the lack of understanding that I had, I kept thinking, every day was a surprise,” Spiridakis told Variety at the film’s premiere.
“I made so many mistakes as a father, I wanted...
- 6/1/2024
- by Lexi Carson
- Variety Film + TV
Here’s a look at this week’s biggest premieres, parties and openings in Los Angeles and New York, including events for Bad Boys: Ride or Die, Hacks and Feud: Capote vs. the Swans.
Feud: Capote vs. the Swans FYC event
Ryan Murphy joined the Feud cast, including Naomi Watts, Tom Hollander, Diane Lane, Chloë Sevigny and Demi Moore, at a For Your Consideration event in Los Angeles on Wednesday.
Chloë Sevigny, Ryan Murphy, Demi Moore, Naomi Watts, Tom Hollander and Diane Lane
Bad Boys: Ride or Die premiere
Will Smith and Martin Lawrence celebrated their fourth Bad Boys movie at its L.A. premiere on Thursday, where Smith was supported by wife Jada Pinkett Smith and their three kids.
Jerry Bruckheimer, Adil El Arbi, Martin Lawrence, Will Smith and Bilal Fallah Trey Smith, Willow Smith, Will Smith, Jada Pinkett Smith, Jaden Smith and Adrienne Banfield-Norris Thomas Rothman, chairman and...
Feud: Capote vs. the Swans FYC event
Ryan Murphy joined the Feud cast, including Naomi Watts, Tom Hollander, Diane Lane, Chloë Sevigny and Demi Moore, at a For Your Consideration event in Los Angeles on Wednesday.
Chloë Sevigny, Ryan Murphy, Demi Moore, Naomi Watts, Tom Hollander and Diane Lane
Bad Boys: Ride or Die premiere
Will Smith and Martin Lawrence celebrated their fourth Bad Boys movie at its L.A. premiere on Thursday, where Smith was supported by wife Jada Pinkett Smith and their three kids.
Jerry Bruckheimer, Adil El Arbi, Martin Lawrence, Will Smith and Bilal Fallah Trey Smith, Willow Smith, Will Smith, Jada Pinkett Smith, Jaden Smith and Adrienne Banfield-Norris Thomas Rothman, chairman and...
- 5/31/2024
- by Kirsten Chuba
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Tony Goldwyn has always been an impressive talent. As an actor, he brings honesty and heart to his work. The same is certainly true with his latest. Ezra not only features Mr. Goldwyn in a supporting role, he takes on the part of director. Ezra tells the story of divorced parents attempting to raise their their son who is on the autism spectrum. Bobby Cannavale and Rose Byrne are terrific as the parents, and William A. Fitzgerald is equally compelling as Ezra. The film also features Robert DeNiro, Vera Farmiga, Rainn Wilson, and Whoopi Goldberg.
We recently sat down to have a discussion with Tony Goldwyn about the new film. And yes, Mr. Goldwyn was as kind and professional as you can get. During our conversation, he opened up about taking on Tony Spiridakis’ wonderful script. The actor/director discussed casting both Bobby and Rose, as well as finding the...
We recently sat down to have a discussion with Tony Goldwyn about the new film. And yes, Mr. Goldwyn was as kind and professional as you can get. During our conversation, he opened up about taking on Tony Spiridakis’ wonderful script. The actor/director discussed casting both Bobby and Rose, as well as finding the...
- 5/31/2024
- by JimmyO
- JoBlo.com
Plot: A combative stand-up comedian (Bobby Cannavale) in a messy custody battle kidnaps his autistic son to keep him from being heavily medicated and placed in a special school.
Review: Tony Goldwyn’s Ezra is a warm-hearted father-son tale that tries to depict the challenges of raising an autistic child in an authentic way. The film was written by Tony Spiridakis, who has an autistic son of his own, while William Fitzgerald, who plays the title role, is on the spectrum. It’s realistic with some terrific performances from the ensemble cast, including Bobby Cannavale, Rose Byrne, Goldwyn himself, and Robert DeNiro (in a meatier role than usual).
The film is a great showcase for Cannavale, who’s pretty convincing as a somewhat confrontational comic who mines his own fractured personal life for material. In it, his character, Max, is reeling from a bitter divorce from his wife, Jenna (Rose...
Review: Tony Goldwyn’s Ezra is a warm-hearted father-son tale that tries to depict the challenges of raising an autistic child in an authentic way. The film was written by Tony Spiridakis, who has an autistic son of his own, while William Fitzgerald, who plays the title role, is on the spectrum. It’s realistic with some terrific performances from the ensemble cast, including Bobby Cannavale, Rose Byrne, Goldwyn himself, and Robert DeNiro (in a meatier role than usual).
The film is a great showcase for Cannavale, who’s pretty convincing as a somewhat confrontational comic who mines his own fractured personal life for material. In it, his character, Max, is reeling from a bitter divorce from his wife, Jenna (Rose...
- 5/31/2024
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Ben Thompson on Wbgr-fm on May 30th, reviewing “Ezra,” featuring Bobby Cannavale and Robert De Niro as a son and father, struggling to help raise an autistic boy. In theaters on May 31st.
Rating: 4.5/5.0
William Fitzgerald portrays the title character, an autistic boy in New York City who is being co-raised by his divorced parents Max (Bobby Cannavale) and Jenna (Rose Byrne). Max is an at-the-brink stand up comedian who lives with his father Stan (Robert De Niro). When Max attacks one of Ezra’s doctors, he is forced into a restraining order, but decides to take matters into his own hands and kidnaps his son, and takes a road trip while learning that he’s landed a gig on the Jimmy Kimmel show. As law enforcement, his ex-wife and Stan pursue Max and Ezra, the whole situation comes into focus.
Rating: 4.5/5.0
William Fitzgerald portrays the title character, an autistic boy in New York City who is being co-raised by his divorced parents Max (Bobby Cannavale) and Jenna (Rose Byrne). Max is an at-the-brink stand up comedian who lives with his father Stan (Robert De Niro). When Max attacks one of Ezra’s doctors, he is forced into a restraining order, but decides to take matters into his own hands and kidnaps his son, and takes a road trip while learning that he’s landed a gig on the Jimmy Kimmel show. As law enforcement, his ex-wife and Stan pursue Max and Ezra, the whole situation comes into focus.
- 5/31/2024
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Mega
Robert De Niro is sharing his thoughts on the recent guilty verdict of Donald Trump.
Known for his outspoken views and unwavering candor, the Hollywood legend's commentary about Trump's guilty verdict arrives at a pivotal moment.
Iconic actor Robert De Niro, who has been at loggerheads with the former president for a while now, could not contain his excitement at the viral news, but he still believes there is much to be done regarding the elections.
Robert De Niro Believes 'Justice Is Served' Amid Donald Trump's Guilty Verdict Mega
The actor expressed his satisfaction following the recent guilty verdict of former President Donald Trump, who was convicted on all 34 counts in his hush-money case.
This conviction marked Trump as the first former U.S. president to face criminal charges. De Niro shared his thoughts at a Cinema Society screening of his new movie, "Ezra," in New York City.
When...
Robert De Niro is sharing his thoughts on the recent guilty verdict of Donald Trump.
Known for his outspoken views and unwavering candor, the Hollywood legend's commentary about Trump's guilty verdict arrives at a pivotal moment.
Iconic actor Robert De Niro, who has been at loggerheads with the former president for a while now, could not contain his excitement at the viral news, but he still believes there is much to be done regarding the elections.
Robert De Niro Believes 'Justice Is Served' Amid Donald Trump's Guilty Verdict Mega
The actor expressed his satisfaction following the recent guilty verdict of former President Donald Trump, who was convicted on all 34 counts in his hush-money case.
This conviction marked Trump as the first former U.S. president to face criminal charges. De Niro shared his thoughts at a Cinema Society screening of his new movie, "Ezra," in New York City.
When...
- 5/31/2024
- by Afouda Bamidele
- The Blast
Chicago – There is a new movie theater in Chicagoland’s Highland Park, with the Grand Opening of Wayfarer Theaters at 1850 2nd Street. On May 31st, the official start of a new era in theatergoing in Highland Park begins, with multiple screenings of “Ezra” from the theater’s sister company, Wayfarer Studios. For complete information on these Free Screenings and the theater, click Wayfarer.
Wayfarer Theaters Highland Park will open the space as a multi-use facility for films, live events, and conversation, following extensive renovations to the street-level lobby and second floor gallery, along with updates to auditoriums to provide an enhanced audience experience. The theater will also retain the spaces that were modernized in 2023, with luxury reclining seating options in two of the five auditoriums and an inviting café area that was added to the second floor.
May 31st, 2024
Photo credit: WayfarerTheaters.com
The Grand Opening free screenings of “Ezra...
Wayfarer Theaters Highland Park will open the space as a multi-use facility for films, live events, and conversation, following extensive renovations to the street-level lobby and second floor gallery, along with updates to auditoriums to provide an enhanced audience experience. The theater will also retain the spaces that were modernized in 2023, with luxury reclining seating options in two of the five auditoriums and an inviting café area that was added to the second floor.
May 31st, 2024
Photo credit: WayfarerTheaters.com
The Grand Opening free screenings of “Ezra...
- 5/31/2024
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Robert De Niro — who made a surprise campaign appearance for Joe Biden outside of Donald Trump’s trial just two days before today’s guilty verdicts in the hush-money case — reacted to the news by saying “justice was served.”
While promoting his new movie Ezra on Thursday in New York City, the actor told Variety how “this never should have gotten to this stage. I don’t want to be talking, but I am so upset by it. I have to say something. This is my country. This guy wants to destroy it. Period. He’s crazy.”
A jury in New York City on Thursday found the former president guilty of all 34 counts of falsifying business records as part of a conspiracy to keep a potential sex scandal from derailing his first presidential campaign. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 11, just days before the start of the Republican National Convention.
While promoting his new movie Ezra on Thursday in New York City, the actor told Variety how “this never should have gotten to this stage. I don’t want to be talking, but I am so upset by it. I have to say something. This is my country. This guy wants to destroy it. Period. He’s crazy.”
A jury in New York City on Thursday found the former president guilty of all 34 counts of falsifying business records as part of a conspiracy to keep a potential sex scandal from derailing his first presidential campaign. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 11, just days before the start of the Republican National Convention.
- 5/31/2024
- by Lynette Rice
- Deadline Film + TV
Robert De Niro didn’t hold back when he was asked about Donald Trump’s guilty verdict in the Stormy Daniels hush money case Thursday.
“I think justice was served,” he said on the carpet for his new movie “Ezra.” “This is just one part of the whole picture, so I want to be very careful.” Though at first he was reticent to expand on his thoughts, he then continued to open up about Trump’s conviction.
“I would think it would,” he said when asked if he thought it could affect the presidential election.
“This never should have gotten to this stage,” he continued, “I don’t want to be talking, but I am so upset by it. I have to say something. This is my country. This guy wants to destroy it. Period. He’s crazy.”
When asked if he ever fears for his safety, De Niro admitted he does.
“I think justice was served,” he said on the carpet for his new movie “Ezra.” “This is just one part of the whole picture, so I want to be very careful.” Though at first he was reticent to expand on his thoughts, he then continued to open up about Trump’s conviction.
“I would think it would,” he said when asked if he thought it could affect the presidential election.
“This never should have gotten to this stage,” he continued, “I don’t want to be talking, but I am so upset by it. I have to say something. This is my country. This guy wants to destroy it. Period. He’s crazy.”
When asked if he ever fears for his safety, De Niro admitted he does.
- 5/30/2024
- by Lexi Carson and Jordan Moreau
- Variety Film + TV
“Ezra” is a heartwarming film about an autistic boy who makes everyone around him look through a different lens. Bobby Cannavale is fantastic as the stand-up comedian father co-parenting his autistic boy Ezra (the wonderful William Fitzgerald) with his ex-wife Jenna played by Rose Byrne. Vera Farmiga, Whoopi Goldberg, Rainn Wilson Tony Goldwyn stars
The post “Ezra” Interview with Rose Byrne and Tony Goldwyn appeared first on Manny the Movie Guy.
The post “Ezra” Interview with Rose Byrne and Tony Goldwyn appeared first on Manny the Movie Guy.
- 5/30/2024
- by manny
- Manny the Movie Guy
A sweet and gracious and often painfully labored dramedy about a stand-up comic who struggles to connect with his autistic 11-year-old son, Tony Goldwyn’s “Ezra” rides an emotional honesty that’s almost completely undone by the sweaty contrivances of its plotting. But this modest little movie’s refusal to be limited by its “problem” — its insistence that stories involving neurodiverse characters can, should, and must touch on a wider range of human experience if they hope to ring true — feels like a step in the right direction for how such people are depicted on screen and seen in the world. It’s an approach that’s sure to resonate with anyone whose kid is on the spectrum, their autism just one ingredient in the endlessly complex soup of who they are and how they’re raised.
It’s also an approach, “Ezra” suggests, that requires a hard-won degree of finesse.
It’s also an approach, “Ezra” suggests, that requires a hard-won degree of finesse.
- 5/30/2024
- by David Ehrlich
- Indiewire
Last weekend saw one of the closest box office battles of the summer, with Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga only narrowly inching out a victory over The Garfield Movie (by less than a million bucks). With very little in the way of competition this weekend, the orange, animated feline is set to overtake Miller’s post-apocalyptic actioner, thanks mainly to weekend family matinees.
Given how mediocre Furiosa’s box office start was (with many predicting it killed the chance of us ever getting Mad Max: The Wasteland), all eyes will be on the film’s hold this weekend. Given the reviews and word of mouth, I predict a 40% decline, which would put it in the $16-17 million range. To note, during its run, Mad Max: Fury Road never posted a drop over 50% until late in its run. Hopefully, word of mouth means the film will have a decent enough finish at the box office,...
Given how mediocre Furiosa’s box office start was (with many predicting it killed the chance of us ever getting Mad Max: The Wasteland), all eyes will be on the film’s hold this weekend. Given the reviews and word of mouth, I predict a 40% decline, which would put it in the $16-17 million range. To note, during its run, Mad Max: Fury Road never posted a drop over 50% until late in its run. Hopefully, word of mouth means the film will have a decent enough finish at the box office,...
- 5/30/2024
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
Let’s start here: watching Bobby Cannavale and Robert De Niro argue on a New York City street while cars angrily beep their horns is electric. Truly exhilarating to watch. Likewise, watching the great Rose Byrne manage multiple emotions on her face is tantamount to listening to Yo-Yo Ma play cello. Ezra, written by Tony Spiridakis and directed by Tony Goldwyn, tells the story of a separated couple’s attempt to raise their autistic son. Max (Cannavale) is a struggling stand-up comedian; his ex, Jenna (Rose Byrne), is trying to keep it all together and not doing well. Their son, Ezra (William A. Fitzgerald), is causing disturbances at his school. Soon he’s forced to go to a specialized school with other “special” kids. Max cannot allow this; neither can his temper. It’s all for Jenna and her lawyer boyfriend (Goldwyn) to do to keep Max from beating up the whole world.
- 5/30/2024
- by Dan Mecca
- The Film Stage
Sometimes, one of the shrewdest things a movie can do is to have its hero act in a way that’s not heroic or admirable or even very likable. In “Ezra,” Max Bernal (Bobby Cannavale), a stand-up comedian with a chip on his shoulder (he used to write for late night; now he performs edgy sets in places like the Comedy Cellar), is in a state of confused fury over what to do about his son, Ezra (William A. Fitzgerald), an owlish 11-year-old who’s autistic. Ezra attends public school in Hoboken, New Jersey, where he acts out, gets bullied, and responds to people on his own brainy but disconnected wavelength. His autistic behaviors aren’t particularly severe. He speaks in arcane pop-culture quotes, he’s scared that metal silverware will hurt his mouth, and he refuses to look you in the eye or allow himself to be hugged.
More and more,...
More and more,...
- 5/30/2024
- by Owen Gleiberman
- Variety Film + TV
Robert De Niro. Rose Byrne, Bobby Cannavale, and William A. Fitzgerald in EzraPhoto: Bleecker Street
Ezra isn’t your average kid, and Ezraisn’t your average movie to throw on when you need a good cry. The Tony Goldwyn-directed film, which follows a neurodivergent 11-year-old who gets caught in...
Ezra isn’t your average kid, and Ezraisn’t your average movie to throw on when you need a good cry. The Tony Goldwyn-directed film, which follows a neurodivergent 11-year-old who gets caught in...
- 5/29/2024
- by Emma Keates
- avclub.com
May comes to a close with a quieter weekend full of odds and ends and nothing particularly wide in terms of studio releases. Read on for Gold Derby’s box office preview.
After a fairly disappointing Memorial Day weekend, the month ends with a number of moderately wide releases. Since most of these new films are smaller, few theater counts have been reported, making it tougher to determine how some of them might perform, though it’s likely that only one will be getting a wide enough release to potentially break into the Top 5. Otherwise, we’re looking at a repeat of the Top 4 with the slightest chance that “The Garfield Movie” might pass “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” with few of the new releases targeting family audiences.
The one movie that has the best chance at cracking the Top 5 would probably be Crunchyroll’s latest Anime feature “Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle,...
After a fairly disappointing Memorial Day weekend, the month ends with a number of moderately wide releases. Since most of these new films are smaller, few theater counts have been reported, making it tougher to determine how some of them might perform, though it’s likely that only one will be getting a wide enough release to potentially break into the Top 5. Otherwise, we’re looking at a repeat of the Top 4 with the slightest chance that “The Garfield Movie” might pass “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” with few of the new releases targeting family audiences.
The one movie that has the best chance at cracking the Top 5 would probably be Crunchyroll’s latest Anime feature “Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle,...
- 5/29/2024
- by Edward Douglas
- Gold Derby
Whoopi Goldberg accepted her role in 'Ezra' without reading the script.The 68-year-old actress stars alongside Robert De Niro and Rose Byrne in the comedy-drama film, and Whoopi has now revealed that she jumped at the chance to join the Tony Goldwyn-directed project.Speaking on 'The View', Whoopi explained: "If [Tony] says he’s got something, I don’t care how other people respond to it, I’m there."Whoopi and Tony actually appeared together in the 1990 fantasy film 'Ghost', and the Hollywood star relished the experience of reuniting with the director.The veteran actress didn't have any doubts about committing herself to the project.She said: "The vibe of the film was like, yeah, I want to be part of this. People don’t usually ask me. So, when somebody says ‘Hey, you want to come play?’ It’s like, yes!"Similarly, Tony...
- 5/29/2024
- by Josh Evans
- Bang Showbiz
Whoopi Goldberg accepted her role in Tony Goldwyn’s Ezra without reading the script. The actors knew each other from co-starring in 1990’s Ghost.
“If he says he’s got something, I don’t care how other people respond to it, I’m there,” Goldberg said of Goldwyn during Tuesday’s episode of The View, where the actor appeared as a guest alongside Bobby Cannavale and Rose Byrne.
Goldberg played Oda Mae Brown, the medium who communicates with Patrick Swayze’s spirit, in Ghost (she won an Oscar for the role). Goldwyn was the antagonist, Carl Bruner, and Goldberg said this week he is a “wonderful partner.”
In Ezra, Goldberg plays the manager of Cannavale’s character, a stand-up comedian struggling to co-parent his autistic son. Byrne, Robert DeNiro, Rainn Wilson and others round out the cast. Goldwyn directed the movie, and also has a small part onscreen. The project...
“If he says he’s got something, I don’t care how other people respond to it, I’m there,” Goldberg said of Goldwyn during Tuesday’s episode of The View, where the actor appeared as a guest alongside Bobby Cannavale and Rose Byrne.
Goldberg played Oda Mae Brown, the medium who communicates with Patrick Swayze’s spirit, in Ghost (she won an Oscar for the role). Goldwyn was the antagonist, Carl Bruner, and Goldberg said this week he is a “wonderful partner.”
In Ezra, Goldberg plays the manager of Cannavale’s character, a stand-up comedian struggling to co-parent his autistic son. Byrne, Robert DeNiro, Rainn Wilson and others round out the cast. Goldwyn directed the movie, and also has a small part onscreen. The project...
- 5/29/2024
- by Zoe G Phillips
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
On Tuesday, May 28, 2024, The View welcomes Tony Goldwyn, Bobby Cannavale, and Rose Byrne to the show. Tony Goldwyn, an actor, director, and producer, joins the show to discuss his latest film, Ezra, in which he stars alongside Bobby Cannavale and Rose Byrne. Goldwyn is known for his roles in Ghost, Nixon, and Scandal. […]
The View: Tony Goldwyn, Bobby Cannavale, Rose Byrne...
The View: Tony Goldwyn, Bobby Cannavale, Rose Byrne...
- 5/28/2024
- by Riley Avery
- MemorableTV
Tony Goldwyn might be more known for his work as an actor, but he’s also prolific as a director, having helmed a few feature films and several TV episodes. Although his latest effort in the director’s chair, the family dramedy Ezra, does suffer from some of its more conventional and melodramatic elements, it’s successful enough in its approach to be a likable, if forgettable, crowd-pleaser.
The movie follows a comedian who sets out on a life-changing road trip with his autistic son after facing decisions that could change both of their futures forever. It doesn’t reinvent the road movie subgenre, but it sets out to deliver a heartwarming and funny family dramedy, and it mostly succeeds in doing so.
Ezra deserves praise for acknowledging that autism is a spectrum, unlike many cinematic portrayals of the disorder. The characters often discuss how not every solution may be...
The movie follows a comedian who sets out on a life-changing road trip with his autistic son after facing decisions that could change both of their futures forever. It doesn’t reinvent the road movie subgenre, but it sets out to deliver a heartwarming and funny family dramedy, and it mostly succeeds in doing so.
Ezra deserves praise for acknowledging that autism is a spectrum, unlike many cinematic portrayals of the disorder. The characters often discuss how not every solution may be...
- 5/27/2024
- by Sean Boelman
- FandomWire
Over the last few years, there have been some major shifts in the way those on the autism spectrum are understood. Conditions like autism have been reframed as an asset rather than a disability, due largely to conversations happening in spaces like TikTok. There has even been a vernacular reconfiguration, with the terms neurotypical and neurodivergent coming into wider acceptance as the more inclusive and less historically loaded categorizations.
As with basically all discourse, these positive developments have occasionally fueled actions with bad intent—like neurotypical people self-diagnosing as neurodivergent, essentially for purposes of clout. Enter Tony Goldwyn’s Ezra, which sees itself as a kind of rebuke to films like Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close for at least nominally wrestling with the notion of whether we should raise children to be as normative as possible or fully embrace their divergences.
The film’s plot concerns a New York comedian,...
As with basically all discourse, these positive developments have occasionally fueled actions with bad intent—like neurotypical people self-diagnosing as neurodivergent, essentially for purposes of clout. Enter Tony Goldwyn’s Ezra, which sees itself as a kind of rebuke to films like Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close for at least nominally wrestling with the notion of whether we should raise children to be as normative as possible or fully embrace their divergences.
The film’s plot concerns a New York comedian,...
- 5/26/2024
- by Charles Lyons-Burt
- Slant Magazine
Tony Goldwyn and Bobby Cannavale are stepping out to promote their new movie!
The two actors posed for photos together at a special screening of their new movie Ezra hosted by Tribeca and Bleeker Street on Monday evening (April 29) held at the Sva Theater in New York City.
Also in attendance at the screening was newcomer William A. Fitzgerald, who plays Bobby‘s son in the movie.
Keep reading to find out more…Ezra “follows Max Bernal (Cannavale), a stand-up comedian living with his father (Robert De Niro), while struggling to co-parent his autistic son Ezra (Fitzgerald) with his ex-wife (Rose Byrne). When forced to confront difficult decisions about their son’s future, Max and Ezra embark on a cross-country road trip that has a transcendent impact on both their lives.”
Tony directed by movie from a screenplay by Tony Spiridakis. Whoopi Goldberg, Vera Farmiga, and Rainn Wilson also appear in the movie.
The two actors posed for photos together at a special screening of their new movie Ezra hosted by Tribeca and Bleeker Street on Monday evening (April 29) held at the Sva Theater in New York City.
Also in attendance at the screening was newcomer William A. Fitzgerald, who plays Bobby‘s son in the movie.
Keep reading to find out more…Ezra “follows Max Bernal (Cannavale), a stand-up comedian living with his father (Robert De Niro), while struggling to co-parent his autistic son Ezra (Fitzgerald) with his ex-wife (Rose Byrne). When forced to confront difficult decisions about their son’s future, Max and Ezra embark on a cross-country road trip that has a transcendent impact on both their lives.”
Tony directed by movie from a screenplay by Tony Spiridakis. Whoopi Goldberg, Vera Farmiga, and Rainn Wilson also appear in the movie.
- 4/30/2024
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
Kent Sanderson has been promoted to president of Bleecker Street, the indie studio behind “Logan Lucky” and “Captain Fantastic.” The veteran executive previously served as the company’s head of acquisitions and ancillary distribution. Sanderson has been with Bleecker Street, which is celebrating its tenth anniversary, since its inception in 2014.
In his previous role, he led both the curation of Bleecker’s film slate and the company’s home entertainment strategy, including co-founding and co-running home entertainment label Decal, which Bleecker operates as a joint-venture with Neon. In his new post, Sanderson will continue to report to Bleecker Street CEO Andrew Karpen.
Sanderson’s elevation is one of several key promotions across the company. Vikki Hart has been elevated to vice president, distribution and sales. She previously had been director of sales, distribution. At the same time, Miranda King has been promoted to vice president, acquisitions and co-productions. She previously served as director,...
In his previous role, he led both the curation of Bleecker’s film slate and the company’s home entertainment strategy, including co-founding and co-running home entertainment label Decal, which Bleecker operates as a joint-venture with Neon. In his new post, Sanderson will continue to report to Bleecker Street CEO Andrew Karpen.
Sanderson’s elevation is one of several key promotions across the company. Vikki Hart has been elevated to vice president, distribution and sales. She previously had been director of sales, distribution. At the same time, Miranda King has been promoted to vice president, acquisitions and co-productions. She previously served as director,...
- 4/24/2024
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Cate Blanchett is taking on the U.N. by way of Hillary Clinton meets Margaret Thatcher garb in a first look at upcoming comedy “Rumours.”
The film is written and directed by Guy Maddin, Evan Johnson, and Galen Johnson, with Bleecker Street distributing. While no release date has been announced yet, the feature is expected to be released in 2024, and debuted first look footage as part of Bleecker Street’s 10-year anniversary reel.
Oscar winner Blanchett co-stars alongside fellow Academy Award winner Alicia Vikander, Roy Dupuis, Charles Dance, Denis Ménochet, Nikki Amuka-Bird, Rolando Ravello, Takehiro Hira, and Zlatko Burić. “Rumours” follows the seven leaders of the world’s wealthiest liberal democracies at the annual G7 summit after they become lost in the woods and face increasing peril while attempting to draft a provisional statement regarding a global crisis.
Ari Aster executive produces through his and Lars Knudsen’s Square Peg production company,...
The film is written and directed by Guy Maddin, Evan Johnson, and Galen Johnson, with Bleecker Street distributing. While no release date has been announced yet, the feature is expected to be released in 2024, and debuted first look footage as part of Bleecker Street’s 10-year anniversary reel.
Oscar winner Blanchett co-stars alongside fellow Academy Award winner Alicia Vikander, Roy Dupuis, Charles Dance, Denis Ménochet, Nikki Amuka-Bird, Rolando Ravello, Takehiro Hira, and Zlatko Burić. “Rumours” follows the seven leaders of the world’s wealthiest liberal democracies at the annual G7 summit after they become lost in the woods and face increasing peril while attempting to draft a provisional statement regarding a global crisis.
Ari Aster executive produces through his and Lars Knudsen’s Square Peg production company,...
- 4/10/2024
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Exclusive: In celebration of its 10th anniversary, Bleecker Street has unveiled a reel showcasing both where the company has been and where it’s headed, unveiling never-before-seen footage from numerous upcoming titles.
Titles nearest on the horizon that are teased include Nathan and David Zellner’s acclaimed Sundance pic Sasquatch Sunset, starring Jesse Eisenberg and Riley Keough, which opens in select theaters April 12, and Tony Goldwyn’s family dramedy Ezra, out May 31. Others include Julia von Heinz’s Treasure (June 14), starring Lena Dunham and Stephen Fry; Jocelyn Moorhouse’s comedy The Fabulous Four (July 26), starring Susan Sarandon, Bette Midler, Megan Mullally and Sheryl Lee Ralph; Mikael Håfström’s sci-fi pic Slingshot (August 23), starring Casey Affleck, Laurence Fishbourne and Emily Beecham; and Mike Leigh’s Hard Truths (October 18), starring Marianne Jean-Baptiste.
Then, there’s Uberto Pasolini’s The Return, starring Ralph Fiennes, Juliette Binoche and Charlie Plummer, and the film Rumours with Cate Blanchett,...
Titles nearest on the horizon that are teased include Nathan and David Zellner’s acclaimed Sundance pic Sasquatch Sunset, starring Jesse Eisenberg and Riley Keough, which opens in select theaters April 12, and Tony Goldwyn’s family dramedy Ezra, out May 31. Others include Julia von Heinz’s Treasure (June 14), starring Lena Dunham and Stephen Fry; Jocelyn Moorhouse’s comedy The Fabulous Four (July 26), starring Susan Sarandon, Bette Midler, Megan Mullally and Sheryl Lee Ralph; Mikael Håfström’s sci-fi pic Slingshot (August 23), starring Casey Affleck, Laurence Fishbourne and Emily Beecham; and Mike Leigh’s Hard Truths (October 18), starring Marianne Jean-Baptiste.
Then, there’s Uberto Pasolini’s The Return, starring Ralph Fiennes, Juliette Binoche and Charlie Plummer, and the film Rumours with Cate Blanchett,...
- 4/10/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Robert De Niro is bringing his latest family-centered feature to his own turf thanks to Tribeca.
De Niro, who co-founded the festival and film program with Jane Rosenthal, is set to host a special screening of the upcoming film “Ezra” exclusively for Tribeca Members April 29 at the Sva Theatre in New York City. The advance screening marks the second Tribeca Members event since its inaugural offering, “An Evening with Larry David,” to celebrate the series finale of the beloved HBO comedy series “Curb Your Enthusiasm.”
“Ezra” follows stand-up comic Max Bernal (Bobby Cannavale), who lives with his father (De Niro) and autistic son Ezra (William Fitzgerald). As Max struggles to co-parent with his ex-wife (Rose Byrne), the family tries to make difficult decisions about Ezra’s future, leading father-son duo Max and Ezra to embark on a cross-country road trip. Vera Farmiga, Rainn Wilson, and Whoopi Goldberg co-star.
The feature is directed by Tony Goldwyn,...
De Niro, who co-founded the festival and film program with Jane Rosenthal, is set to host a special screening of the upcoming film “Ezra” exclusively for Tribeca Members April 29 at the Sva Theatre in New York City. The advance screening marks the second Tribeca Members event since its inaugural offering, “An Evening with Larry David,” to celebrate the series finale of the beloved HBO comedy series “Curb Your Enthusiasm.”
“Ezra” follows stand-up comic Max Bernal (Bobby Cannavale), who lives with his father (De Niro) and autistic son Ezra (William Fitzgerald). As Max struggles to co-parent with his ex-wife (Rose Byrne), the family tries to make difficult decisions about Ezra’s future, leading father-son duo Max and Ezra to embark on a cross-country road trip. Vera Farmiga, Rainn Wilson, and Whoopi Goldberg co-star.
The feature is directed by Tony Goldwyn,...
- 4/10/2024
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Screenwriter Tony Spiridakis wasn’t familiar with the Museum of the Moving Image’s Marvels of Media Festival — which celebrates the work of mediamakers with autism — before penning his star-studded film Ezra, about parenting a child on the spectrum. But he quickly became a supporter after MoM founder and former AMC Networks CEO Josh Sapan reached out.
“[The festival] understands the power of empathy and the undeniable beauty of diversity,” says Spiridakis, who now sits on its advisory board alongside Ezra director Tony Goldwyn. “It shows the unfiltered, authentic expression that comes from the unique perspectives of autistic mediamakers, something Hollywood and all artists can benefit from.”
Marvels of Media, taking place until tomorrow in Queens, joins the ReelAbilities Film Festival, which runs April 3 through 10, and is hosting Ezra’s New York premiere on opening night. Both of the film festivals are dedicated to disabled filmmakers and narratives showcasing characters with a disability.
“[The festival] understands the power of empathy and the undeniable beauty of diversity,” says Spiridakis, who now sits on its advisory board alongside Ezra director Tony Goldwyn. “It shows the unfiltered, authentic expression that comes from the unique perspectives of autistic mediamakers, something Hollywood and all artists can benefit from.”
Marvels of Media, taking place until tomorrow in Queens, joins the ReelAbilities Film Festival, which runs April 3 through 10, and is hosting Ezra’s New York premiere on opening night. Both of the film festivals are dedicated to disabled filmmakers and narratives showcasing characters with a disability.
- 3/29/2024
- by Abbey White
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The 27th Sonoma International Film Festival (March 20-24), as always, leaned into wine and food with the sold-out opening night U.S. premiere of Thomas Napper’s “Widow Clicquot” (Vertical Entertainment), starring Haley Bennett as the woman who saves the legendary winemaker’s legacy. The wine country film festival drew its highest audience attendance to date with a robust film slate programmed by artistic director Carl Spence (working with Executive Director Ginny Krieger), in his second year, including upcoming specialty fare like Luc Besson’s “DogMan” (Briarcliff Entertainment) starring Caleb Landry Jones in an incendiary performance, and Sony Pictures Classics’ raucous comedy “Wicked Little Letters,” starring Olivia Colman, along with a smattering of yummy wine and food events.
The five-day festival curated by Spence along with senior programmers Amanda Salazar and Ken Jacobson, showcased more than 100 films. Twenty-five countries were represented in this year’s lineup of 43 narrative features, 16 documentary features,...
The five-day festival curated by Spence along with senior programmers Amanda Salazar and Ken Jacobson, showcased more than 100 films. Twenty-five countries were represented in this year’s lineup of 43 narrative features, 16 documentary features,...
- 3/24/2024
- by Anne Thompson
- Indiewire
"I don't want him in his own world, I want him in *this* world." Bleecker Street has finally unveiled the full official trailer for the heartfelt comedy film titled Ezra, an autism story about parents and their autistic child. This initially premiered at last year's Toronto Film Festival, with stops at the Sun Valley and Boulder Film Festivals earlier this year. Ezra centers on comedian Max co-parenting autistic son Ezra with his ex-wife Jenna. Faced with crucial decisions about Ezra's future, Max and Ezra decide to go on a life-changing cross-country road trip. Robert De Niro plays the father of the main character Max, a stand-up comic who is struggling with the situation & his family. Ezra stars Bobby Cannavale, Rose Byrne, Vera Farmiga, Whoopi Goldberg, Rainn Wilson, Tony Goldwyn; and introducing William A. Fitzgerald as Ezra with De Niro as Stan. Reviews from the fests praise the film, stating it's "warm,...
- 3/15/2024
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
No one ever said loving people is easy. Each person comes with their own set of challenges and unpredictabilities. Patience, tolerance, and understanding are crucial for a meaningful and beneficial bond. If you’re willing to go the distance for someone you love, the rewards can be worth every moment of frustration, heartache, and pain. Today, Bleecker Street debuted a trailer for the studio’s comedic family drama, Ezra, a touching story about fathers and sons going above and beyond the call of duty to find balance in a world designed to judge and persecute.
Ezra follows Max Bernal (Bobby Cannavale), a stand-up comedian living with his father (Robert De Niro) while struggling to co-parent his autistic son Ezra (introducing William Fitzgerald) with his ex-wife (Rose Byrne). When forced to confront difficult decisions about their son’s future, Max and Ezra embark on a cross-country road trip that has a...
Ezra follows Max Bernal (Bobby Cannavale), a stand-up comedian living with his father (Robert De Niro) while struggling to co-parent his autistic son Ezra (introducing William Fitzgerald) with his ex-wife (Rose Byrne). When forced to confront difficult decisions about their son’s future, Max and Ezra embark on a cross-country road trip that has a...
- 3/13/2024
- by Steve Seigh
- JoBlo.com
Bobby Cannavale, Robert De Niro and Rose Byrne lead a starry ensemble drama focused on caring for a neurodivergent child in the trailer for Ezra.
Director Tony Goldwyn’s family-focused feature is set to hit theaters May 31 from Bleecker Street after debuting at last year’s Toronto International Film Festival. Vera Farmiga, Whoopi Goldberg, Rainn Wilson and Goldwyn round out the film’s cast.
Ezra follows Max, a stand-up comic who lives with his father (De Niro) and decides to take his autistic son, Ezra (newcomer William Fitzgerald), on a road trip amid questions about the boy’s future.
“You’re fighting for something,” De Niro says in the trailer. “You might have to suffer consequences, but it’s worth it because you did it.”
Later in the footage, Cannavale says, “A dad’s job is to take his son down the field. If he gets tackled, all that dad...
Director Tony Goldwyn’s family-focused feature is set to hit theaters May 31 from Bleecker Street after debuting at last year’s Toronto International Film Festival. Vera Farmiga, Whoopi Goldberg, Rainn Wilson and Goldwyn round out the film’s cast.
Ezra follows Max, a stand-up comic who lives with his father (De Niro) and decides to take his autistic son, Ezra (newcomer William Fitzgerald), on a road trip amid questions about the boy’s future.
“You’re fighting for something,” De Niro says in the trailer. “You might have to suffer consequences, but it’s worth it because you did it.”
Later in the footage, Cannavale says, “A dad’s job is to take his son down the field. If he gets tackled, all that dad...
- 3/13/2024
- by Ryan Gajewski
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Bobby Cannavale Is a Stand-up Comic with an Autistic Son, a Road Trip, and a Dream in ‘Ezra’ Trailer
Bobby Cannavale has been passed over at the Comedy Cellar, but if he doesn’t get his act together — and we don’t mean his stand-up act — life itself will pass him by.
Bleecker Street released the trailer for its upcoming feature film “Ezra” on Wednesday, March 13, which in addition to Cannavale stars Rose Byrne, Vera Farmiga, Whoopi Goldberg, Rainn Wilson, Tony Goldwyn, and newcomer William A. Fitzgerald, and Robert De Niro. Pretty good cast there.
“Ezra” follows Max Bernal (Cannavale), a stand-up comedian living with his father (De Niro) while struggling to co-parent his autistic son Ezra (Fitzgerald) with ex-wife (Rose Byrne). Cannavale is broke — the living with dad part probably gave that away — and “still not over” Byrne.
Max gets his potential big break when invited to do a late-night set for Jimmy Kimmel. (Unclear if it’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” in the “Ezra” Cinematic Universe.) One problem:...
Bleecker Street released the trailer for its upcoming feature film “Ezra” on Wednesday, March 13, which in addition to Cannavale stars Rose Byrne, Vera Farmiga, Whoopi Goldberg, Rainn Wilson, Tony Goldwyn, and newcomer William A. Fitzgerald, and Robert De Niro. Pretty good cast there.
“Ezra” follows Max Bernal (Cannavale), a stand-up comedian living with his father (De Niro) while struggling to co-parent his autistic son Ezra (Fitzgerald) with ex-wife (Rose Byrne). Cannavale is broke — the living with dad part probably gave that away — and “still not over” Byrne.
Max gets his potential big break when invited to do a late-night set for Jimmy Kimmel. (Unclear if it’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” in the “Ezra” Cinematic Universe.) One problem:...
- 3/13/2024
- by Tony Maglio
- Indiewire
Bleecker Street has released a first-look trailer for their new family comedy/drama “Ezra,” which will be released in theaters on May 31. Featuring Bobby Cannavale, Rose Byrne, and Oscar-winner Robert De Niro, the trio star as three adults from the same family with wildly differing opinions about what’s best for one precious neurodivergent little boy, the titular Ezra. Cannavale and De Niro previously worked together in the Martin Scorsese gangster pic “The Irishman.”
This project will be much more lighthearted than the previous one; however, it still has dramatic aspects.
Continue reading ‘Ezra’ Trailer: Bobby Cannavale & Robert De Niro Reunite For Autism Dramedy Coming May 31 at The Playlist.
This project will be much more lighthearted than the previous one; however, it still has dramatic aspects.
Continue reading ‘Ezra’ Trailer: Bobby Cannavale & Robert De Niro Reunite For Autism Dramedy Coming May 31 at The Playlist.
- 3/13/2024
- by Christopher Marc
- The Playlist
Variety will honor Molly Ringwald with the Variety Creative Vanguard Award at the Miami Film Festival on Saturday, April 6. The award will be for her outstanding career achievements, earning acclaim from critics and audiences alike.
Ringwald will participate in a Q&a about her extensive work in film and TV with Variety Senior Awards Editor Clayton Davis.
“It’s important to remember that before Molly Ringwald was the iconic young star of John Hughes’ teen angst-driven comedies such as ‘Sixteen Candles,’ ‘Pretty in Pink’ and ‘The Breakfast Club,’ she first starred in Paul Mazursky’s contemporary update of Shakespeare’s ‘Tempest,’” said Steve Gaydos, Variety EVP of Global Content and Executive Editor. “This is important because the secret of Ringwald’s early success and career longevity is the simple fact she has always been one of American film and television’s most gifted and versatile actresses. Her dazzling work this...
Ringwald will participate in a Q&a about her extensive work in film and TV with Variety Senior Awards Editor Clayton Davis.
“It’s important to remember that before Molly Ringwald was the iconic young star of John Hughes’ teen angst-driven comedies such as ‘Sixteen Candles,’ ‘Pretty in Pink’ and ‘The Breakfast Club,’ she first starred in Paul Mazursky’s contemporary update of Shakespeare’s ‘Tempest,’” said Steve Gaydos, Variety EVP of Global Content and Executive Editor. “This is important because the secret of Ringwald’s early success and career longevity is the simple fact she has always been one of American film and television’s most gifted and versatile actresses. Her dazzling work this...
- 3/12/2024
- by William Earl
- Variety Film + TV
After the 96th Academy Awards honors were handed out on Sunday night, here’s a look at the next projects the Oscar nominees in the acting categories (supporting and lead) are planning to tackle:
Annette Bening
Nyad
The five-time Oscar nominee stars with Alison Brie and Sam Neill on Peacock series Apples Never Fall (March 14), an adaptation of a Liane Moriarty novel. Also this year, Bening stars in Poolman opposite Chris Pine in his feature directorial debut.
Emily Blunt
Oppenheimer
She stars opposite fellow Oscar nominee Ryan Gosling in David Leitch’s movie The Fall Guy, premiering at SXSW before Universal releases it May 3. Two weeks after that, Blunt can be heard voicing a unicorn in husband John Krasinski’s Paramount feature If.
Danielle Brooks
The Color Purple
The actress has been filming Jared Hess’ video game adaptation Minecraft with Jack Black, set for release from Warner Bros. in 2025. She...
Annette Bening
Nyad
The five-time Oscar nominee stars with Alison Brie and Sam Neill on Peacock series Apples Never Fall (March 14), an adaptation of a Liane Moriarty novel. Also this year, Bening stars in Poolman opposite Chris Pine in his feature directorial debut.
Emily Blunt
Oppenheimer
She stars opposite fellow Oscar nominee Ryan Gosling in David Leitch’s movie The Fall Guy, premiering at SXSW before Universal releases it May 3. Two weeks after that, Blunt can be heard voicing a unicorn in husband John Krasinski’s Paramount feature If.
Danielle Brooks
The Color Purple
The actress has been filming Jared Hess’ video game adaptation Minecraft with Jack Black, set for release from Warner Bros. in 2025. She...
- 3/11/2024
- by Ryan Gajewski
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Miami Film Festival has announced the lineup for its 41st edition, including “Thelma,” starring June Squibb, opening the event and Tony Goldwyn’s “Ezra” as closing night selection.
Goldwyn will be honored at the festival with the Art of Light award along with Alison Brie, while Greg Kwedar, director of “Sing Sing,” will receive the Impact Award.
The festival runs April 5-14, with Goldwyn in attendance for the April 13 closing screening of “Ezra,” which stars Bobby Cannavale, Rose Byrne, Robert De Niro, Vera Farmiga, Whoopi Goldberg, and Rainn Wilson.
“This year’s lineup spotlights exciting narrative programming, essential documentaries, and groundbreaking shorts, bringing an unbelievable host of films to our local community,” said James Woolley, Executive Director. “The Miami Film Festival is delighted to welcome our audiences back for another year of incredible screenings and inspiring conversations.”
“We are thrilled to be bringing this incredible slate of diverse and exciting films to Miami,...
Goldwyn will be honored at the festival with the Art of Light award along with Alison Brie, while Greg Kwedar, director of “Sing Sing,” will receive the Impact Award.
The festival runs April 5-14, with Goldwyn in attendance for the April 13 closing screening of “Ezra,” which stars Bobby Cannavale, Rose Byrne, Robert De Niro, Vera Farmiga, Whoopi Goldberg, and Rainn Wilson.
“This year’s lineup spotlights exciting narrative programming, essential documentaries, and groundbreaking shorts, bringing an unbelievable host of films to our local community,” said James Woolley, Executive Director. “The Miami Film Festival is delighted to welcome our audiences back for another year of incredible screenings and inspiring conversations.”
“We are thrilled to be bringing this incredible slate of diverse and exciting films to Miami,...
- 3/7/2024
- by William Earl
- Variety Film + TV
The Emmy®-winning and critically acclaimed Max Original comedy series Hacks has added Helen Hunt, Christina Hendricks, Christopher Lloyd, Dan Bucatinsky, George Wallace, and Tony Goldwyn as guest stars for the highly anticipated third season, debuting this spring.
Season 3 logline: A year after parting, Deborah Vance (Jean Smart) is riding high off the success of her standup special while Ava (Hannah Einbinder) pursues new opportunities back in Los Angeles.
Newly announced cast: Helen Hunt, Christina Hendricks, Christopher Lloyd, Dan Bucatinsky, George Wallace (“Clean Slate”), and Tony Goldwyn.
Returning cast: Emmy®, SAG Award, and Critics Choice Award winner Jean Smart and Emmy®, SAG Award, and Critics Choice Award nominee Hannah Einbinder return alongside Paul W. Downs, Megan Stalter, Carl Clemons-Hopkins, Kaitlin Olson, Christopher McDonald, Mark Indelicato, Rose Abdoo, and Lorenza Izzo.
Season 3 credits: Hacks is created and showrun by Emmy® winners Paul W. Downs, Lucia Aniello, and Jen Statsky. It is...
Season 3 logline: A year after parting, Deborah Vance (Jean Smart) is riding high off the success of her standup special while Ava (Hannah Einbinder) pursues new opportunities back in Los Angeles.
Newly announced cast: Helen Hunt, Christina Hendricks, Christopher Lloyd, Dan Bucatinsky, George Wallace (“Clean Slate”), and Tony Goldwyn.
Returning cast: Emmy®, SAG Award, and Critics Choice Award winner Jean Smart and Emmy®, SAG Award, and Critics Choice Award nominee Hannah Einbinder return alongside Paul W. Downs, Megan Stalter, Carl Clemons-Hopkins, Kaitlin Olson, Christopher McDonald, Mark Indelicato, Rose Abdoo, and Lorenza Izzo.
Season 3 credits: Hacks is created and showrun by Emmy® winners Paul W. Downs, Lucia Aniello, and Jen Statsky. It is...
- 3/2/2024
- by TV Shows MCM
- Martin Cid Music
Tony Goldwyn, the beloved actor and filmmaker who is perhaps best known for starring in the film Ghost and the TV series Scandal, will receive the Boulder International Film Festival’s Career Achievement Award on Friday in Boulder, Col., The Hollywood Reporter can exclusively report.
The entire evening — which kicks off the fest’s 20th edition — will be a celebration of the 63-year-old actor. At the historic Boulder Theatre, the proceedings will begin at 7:30 p.m. with a screening of Ezra, a new film directed by Goldwyn that features an all-star cast including Robert De Niro, Bobby Cannavale, Rose Byrne, Rainn Wilson, Vera Farmiga and Goldwyn himself. The movie also made a big splash at the most recent Toronto International Film Festival last September.
Immediately afterward, Goldwyn will be presented with the festival’s highest honor. And then, he and yours truly will sit down for a career retrospective...
The entire evening — which kicks off the fest’s 20th edition — will be a celebration of the 63-year-old actor. At the historic Boulder Theatre, the proceedings will begin at 7:30 p.m. with a screening of Ezra, a new film directed by Goldwyn that features an all-star cast including Robert De Niro, Bobby Cannavale, Rose Byrne, Rainn Wilson, Vera Farmiga and Goldwyn himself. The movie also made a big splash at the most recent Toronto International Film Festival last September.
Immediately afterward, Goldwyn will be presented with the festival’s highest honor. And then, he and yours truly will sit down for a career retrospective...
- 2/28/2024
- by Scott Feinberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The 13th annual Sun Valley Film Festival, kicking off Feb. 28, will aim to once again to capture the spirit of storytelling by celebrating poignant films at the Idaho ski resort town.
This year’s festival kicks off with “Ezra,” directed by Tony Goldwyn and starring Bobby Cannavale, Rose Byrne and Robert De Niro, and concludes March 3 with a screening of “Sugarcane,” a documentary about missing children at a Native residential school that recently won a directing trophy for Emily Kassie and Julian Brave NoiseCat at Sundance.
The programming team also chose multiple films from first-time feature filmmakers, including Sophia Sabello and Pablo Feldman’s “Edge of Everything,” Annie Baker’s “Janet Planet,” Marc Marriott’s “Tokyo Cowboy,” Caroline Lindy’s “Your Monster,” while the documentary line-up includes Maggie Contreras’ “Maestra” and Lisa D’Apolito’s “Shari & Lamb Chop.”
Panels and starry tributes are planned at the fest, with movies screening at...
This year’s festival kicks off with “Ezra,” directed by Tony Goldwyn and starring Bobby Cannavale, Rose Byrne and Robert De Niro, and concludes March 3 with a screening of “Sugarcane,” a documentary about missing children at a Native residential school that recently won a directing trophy for Emily Kassie and Julian Brave NoiseCat at Sundance.
The programming team also chose multiple films from first-time feature filmmakers, including Sophia Sabello and Pablo Feldman’s “Edge of Everything,” Annie Baker’s “Janet Planet,” Marc Marriott’s “Tokyo Cowboy,” Caroline Lindy’s “Your Monster,” while the documentary line-up includes Maggie Contreras’ “Maestra” and Lisa D’Apolito’s “Shari & Lamb Chop.”
Panels and starry tributes are planned at the fest, with movies screening at...
- 2/28/2024
- by Nick Clement
- Variety Film + TV
Meredith Hama-Brown’s feature debut “Seagrass,” starring Ally Maki, will debut in U.S. theaters on Feb. 22, beginning with special screenings with the cast and director.
Q&a’s will be held at New York’s Roxy Cinema and Los Angeles’ Laemmle Royal on Feb. 22 and Las Vegas’ Regal Theatre on Feb. 23. Maki will be in Los Angeles, Hama-Brown and cinematographer Norm Li will be in New York, and actor Chris Pang will be in Las Vegas. The film will also have its U.S. festival premiere at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, screening on Feb. 12 and Feb. 13.
The synopsis for “Seagrass” reads, “Set in the mid 1990’s, a Japanese Canadian woman (Maki) grappling with the recent death of her mother brings her family to a self-development retreat. When her distressed relationship with her husband begins to affect the children’s emotional security, the family is forever changed.”
In addition to Maki and Pang,...
Q&a’s will be held at New York’s Roxy Cinema and Los Angeles’ Laemmle Royal on Feb. 22 and Las Vegas’ Regal Theatre on Feb. 23. Maki will be in Los Angeles, Hama-Brown and cinematographer Norm Li will be in New York, and actor Chris Pang will be in Las Vegas. The film will also have its U.S. festival premiere at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, screening on Feb. 12 and Feb. 13.
The synopsis for “Seagrass” reads, “Set in the mid 1990’s, a Japanese Canadian woman (Maki) grappling with the recent death of her mother brings her family to a self-development retreat. When her distressed relationship with her husband begins to affect the children’s emotional security, the family is forever changed.”
In addition to Maki and Pang,...
- 2/6/2024
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
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