The James Bond franchise has long been blossoming in the action genre and remains among the fan-favorite franchises. It is rich in many elements, from thrilling action sequences to innovative gadgets, that captivated audiences for decades. It is all thanks to Ian Fleming, the creator behind the iconic 007 spy, who laid the foundation of the vast saga.
Sean Connery in Goldfinger [Credit: United Artists]However, many would be surprised to know that he was against the idea of Sean Connery to take up the iconic role. Fleming would have done with anyone, but not Connery, and the reason would surprise many!
Sean Connery’s James Bond Was Different from What Ian Fleming Intended
In Nicholas Shakespeare’s biography of Bond author Ian Fleming, titled Ian Fleming: The Complete Man, the author shared insights on what went behind the scenes in a film adaptation of Ian Fleming’s first Bond novel Casino Royale.
Sean Connery in Goldfinger [Credit: United Artists]However, many would be surprised to know that he was against the idea of Sean Connery to take up the iconic role. Fleming would have done with anyone, but not Connery, and the reason would surprise many!
Sean Connery’s James Bond Was Different from What Ian Fleming Intended
In Nicholas Shakespeare’s biography of Bond author Ian Fleming, titled Ian Fleming: The Complete Man, the author shared insights on what went behind the scenes in a film adaptation of Ian Fleming’s first Bond novel Casino Royale.
- 5/31/2024
- by Priya Sharma
- FandomWire
Most actors would love to have a career like David Boreanaz's. The man wooed Buffy (Sarah Michelle Gellar) as her brooding, completely age-inappropriate vampiric boyfriend Angel on "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," took his fight against the forces of evil to Los Angeles in the "Buffy" spinoff "Angel," and solved murders while falling for stiff forensic anthropologist Temperance "Bones" Brennan (Emily Deschanel) in "Bones." He's since led the military drama series "Seal Team," which will wrap up after seven seasons (a miraculously long run in the brutal current TV landscape).
That's not to suggest his closet is devoid of skeletons. The actor was sued for allegedly sexually harassing a "Bones" extra in 2010; the lawsuit was dismissed after being resolved out of court in 2011. That same year, Boreanaz also publicly admitted to cheating on his wife Jaime Bergman. As of 2024, however, they are still married, with Bergman having since become one...
That's not to suggest his closet is devoid of skeletons. The actor was sued for allegedly sexually harassing a "Bones" extra in 2010; the lawsuit was dismissed after being resolved out of court in 2011. That same year, Boreanaz also publicly admitted to cheating on his wife Jaime Bergman. As of 2024, however, they are still married, with Bergman having since become one...
- 5/25/2024
- by Sandy Schaefer
- Slash Film
The dogged pursuit of the relationship unicorn that is the good break-up informs the wit and winking wisdom of Jonás Trueba’s “The Other Way Around,” a delightful showcase for the Spanish director’s lithe, airy style, here accented with glistening strands of Madrileño meta-melancholy. A hip, popular twosome decide to call it quits after 14 years, cuing a very funny yet properly grown-up portrait of the ideal couple trying to smoothe, and even to celebrate, their transition into ideal exes. It’s the celebration aspect that will prove their undoing. If the good breakup is rare, the joyous breakup is completely mythical.
Filmmaker Ale (Itsaso Arana) and her actor boyfriend of 14 years Alex (Vito Sanz) have decided — mutually, they insist — to pack their bags for Splitsville. They lie in the dark in their still-shared bed with a poignant politeness recognizable to anyone who has similarly ended a longterm relationship prior to canceling a longterm lease.
Filmmaker Ale (Itsaso Arana) and her actor boyfriend of 14 years Alex (Vito Sanz) have decided — mutually, they insist — to pack their bags for Splitsville. They lie in the dark in their still-shared bed with a poignant politeness recognizable to anyone who has similarly ended a longterm relationship prior to canceling a longterm lease.
- 5/23/2024
- by Jessica Kiang
- Variety Film + TV
James Stewart, more affectionately known as “Jimmy” to his fans, was an Oscar-winning performer who became famous for his polite, gentle screen persona, often playing the aww-shucks boy next door. Yet he also showed his range with a series of performances that found him playing against type. Let’s take a look back at 25 of his greatest films, ranked worst to best.
Born in 1908, Stewart earned his first Oscar nomination as Best Actor for playing an idealistic young senator in “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” (1939), which firmly established him as the patron saint of the common man. He clinched his one and only victory the very next year for “The Philadelphia Story” (1940), playing a tabloid reporter who stumbles into the marital strife of a high society couple (Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant).
After serving in WWII, Stewart returned home to play George Bailey, a businessman contemplating suicide on Christmas Eve,...
Born in 1908, Stewart earned his first Oscar nomination as Best Actor for playing an idealistic young senator in “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” (1939), which firmly established him as the patron saint of the common man. He clinched his one and only victory the very next year for “The Philadelphia Story” (1940), playing a tabloid reporter who stumbles into the marital strife of a high society couple (Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant).
After serving in WWII, Stewart returned home to play George Bailey, a businessman contemplating suicide on Christmas Eve,...
- 5/18/2024
- by Zach Laws and Chris Beachum
- Gold Derby
Severin Films Goes Goth On June 4th With Danza MacAbra Volume 3: The Spanish Gothic Collection: "Coming June 4th! Danza MacAbra Volume 3: The Spanish Gothic Collection is the latest in our acclaimed series of Gothic Horror Blu-ray box sets and the first to focus on Spain’s tradition of Gothic Horror, which – particularly during the Franco dictatorship – was characterized by daring concepts, lush visuals, extreme sexuality, and a startling aestheic all its own. These four classic shockers from the 1970s represent the genre at its most audacious: In Necrophagous, the debut feature by writer/director Miguel Madrid, a fractured family in a crumbling castle conceals a grisly graveyard secret. The anthology film Cake Of Blood – never previously available outside of Spain – presents a quartet of supernatural tales by four young filmmakers. Hammer Films director John Gilling brings his inimitable style to the occult thriller in Cross Of The Devil.
- 5/15/2024
- by Jonathan James
- DailyDead
Palais Intrigue Warren Beatty and Natalie Wood
Warren Beatty and his Splendor in the Grass co-star (and then girlfriend) Natalie Wood on the steps of the Palais du Festival, 1962.
Queen Elizabeth Liz Taylor
A bejeweled and becrowned Liz Taylor grabs a seat, and all the attention, at the 1957 edition of the festival.
Bonjour, Bb! Brigitte Bardot
French actress Brigitte Bardot at the Ninth Cannes Film Festival in 1956, the year Roger Vadim’s And God Created Woman made her a star.
Stars Aligning Cary Grant and Kim Novak
Cary Grant and Kim Novak at the 12th edition of the festival, perhaps discussing their recent work for Alfred Hitchcock.
Belle Journée Marie Laforêt
French singer Marie Laforêt in a dreamy moment at the Cannes Festival in 1960.
Moment of Reflection Grace Kelly
Grace Kelly in the Carlton Hotel in 1955, the year she appeared with Grant in Hitchcock’s To Catch a Thief, about...
Warren Beatty and his Splendor in the Grass co-star (and then girlfriend) Natalie Wood on the steps of the Palais du Festival, 1962.
Queen Elizabeth Liz Taylor
A bejeweled and becrowned Liz Taylor grabs a seat, and all the attention, at the 1957 edition of the festival.
Bonjour, Bb! Brigitte Bardot
French actress Brigitte Bardot at the Ninth Cannes Film Festival in 1956, the year Roger Vadim’s And God Created Woman made her a star.
Stars Aligning Cary Grant and Kim Novak
Cary Grant and Kim Novak at the 12th edition of the festival, perhaps discussing their recent work for Alfred Hitchcock.
Belle Journée Marie Laforêt
French singer Marie Laforêt in a dreamy moment at the Cannes Festival in 1960.
Moment of Reflection Grace Kelly
Grace Kelly in the Carlton Hotel in 1955, the year she appeared with Grant in Hitchcock’s To Catch a Thief, about...
- 5/14/2024
- by Edited by Julian Sancton
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
There’s a story Alfred Hitchcock always liked to tell about how, when he was five years old, his father dropped him off at the local police station near his home in East London. William Hitchcock left a note for the coppers explaining that his son had been misbehaving. A policeman locked young Alfred in a cell for a few minutes and explained, “This is what we do to naughty boys.”
When Hitchcock recounted that story to Dick Cavett he was in his 70s, but the incident continued to leave a profound mark on the director. He said he was still “terrified of the police” because of that and drew a connection from that to the feelings of guilt and wrong-men-on-the-run paranoia that seeps into so many of his films.
The funny thing is, though, father characters are almost entirely absent from Hitchcock’s work. There are a few: Cedric Hardwicke...
When Hitchcock recounted that story to Dick Cavett he was in his 70s, but the incident continued to leave a profound mark on the director. He said he was still “terrified of the police” because of that and drew a connection from that to the feelings of guilt and wrong-men-on-the-run paranoia that seeps into so many of his films.
The funny thing is, though, father characters are almost entirely absent from Hitchcock’s work. There are a few: Cedric Hardwicke...
- 5/12/2024
- by Christian Blauvelt
- Indiewire
Exclusive: Chloe East (The Fabelmans), Jacqueline Novak (Get on Your Knees) and Jennifer Grant (Babylon) have boarded Sony Pictures’ romance A Big Bold Beautiful Journey from director Kogonada.
Starring Margot Robbie and Colin Farrell, the film’s plot is under wraps, but it’s described as an imaginative tale of two strangers and the extraordinary emotional journey that connects them.
Seth Reiss wrote the script. Imperative Entertainment’s Dan Friedkin, Bradley Thomas and Ryan Friedkin will produce, along with Reiss and Youree Henley. Exec producers include Kogonada, Ilene Feldman and Original Films’ Ori Eisen. 30West is financing the film.
The supporting cast also includes Lily Rabe, Jodie Turner-Smith, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Lucy Thomas, Hamish Linklater, Billy Magnussen, Sarah Gadon, Brandon Perea and Yuvi Hecht.
Breaking out as Monica, the love interest of lead Gabrielle Labelle’s Sammy, in Steven Spielberg’s semi-autobiographical drama The Fabelmans, East will next star opposite Hugh Grant...
Starring Margot Robbie and Colin Farrell, the film’s plot is under wraps, but it’s described as an imaginative tale of two strangers and the extraordinary emotional journey that connects them.
Seth Reiss wrote the script. Imperative Entertainment’s Dan Friedkin, Bradley Thomas and Ryan Friedkin will produce, along with Reiss and Youree Henley. Exec producers include Kogonada, Ilene Feldman and Original Films’ Ori Eisen. 30West is financing the film.
The supporting cast also includes Lily Rabe, Jodie Turner-Smith, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Lucy Thomas, Hamish Linklater, Billy Magnussen, Sarah Gadon, Brandon Perea and Yuvi Hecht.
Breaking out as Monica, the love interest of lead Gabrielle Labelle’s Sammy, in Steven Spielberg’s semi-autobiographical drama The Fabelmans, East will next star opposite Hugh Grant...
- 5/9/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
From the very early days of cinema, the love triangle has been a staple of romantic comedies and heartbreaking dramas alike. In its classic form, there’s either two guys and two girls both interested in the same girl or guy, who finds themself torn between the two possibilities. Fizzy screwball comedies usually ended with the love triangle resolving in favor of the lead; see, for example, how Katharine Hepburn’s free-spirited heroine in 1938 comedy “Holiday” steals Cary Grant from under the nose of her own sister (Doris Nolan). In dramas, the ending tends to be a tad more bittersweet, leading to iconically devastating moments like Humphrey Bogart saying goodbye to Ingrid Bergman before she hops on a plane to escape to safety with her husband Victor (Paul Henreid) during the climax of “Casablanca.”
However a love triangle ends, its clear why the formula is such a repeating trope in...
However a love triangle ends, its clear why the formula is such a repeating trope in...
- 5/8/2024
- by Wilson Chapman
- Indiewire
Uncropped
Director Dw Young's Uncropped rediscovers and re-evaluates the photography of James Hamilton, who for over four decades worked as a staff photographer at Harper’s Bazaar, The New York Observer and The Village Voice, among other publications.
Hamilton's breadth of work covered street photography, photojournalism, and film set photography for George Romero, Noah Baumbach and Wes Anderson. In his career he has photographed a who’s who of creative heavyweights: Jean-Luc Godard, François Truffaut, Alfred Hitchcock, Isabelle Huppert, Cary Grant and Liza Minnelli. His photojournalism saw him travel across the US, his images bringing to life the words of the investigative reporter in exposing the interesting side of America and documenting the horror of international theatres of conflict.
In conversation with Eye For Film, Young discussed his disinterest in biopics and Hamilton's cinephilic knowledge. He also spoke about creating an historical document and his hopes that Uncropped will not.
Director Dw Young's Uncropped rediscovers and re-evaluates the photography of James Hamilton, who for over four decades worked as a staff photographer at Harper’s Bazaar, The New York Observer and The Village Voice, among other publications.
Hamilton's breadth of work covered street photography, photojournalism, and film set photography for George Romero, Noah Baumbach and Wes Anderson. In his career he has photographed a who’s who of creative heavyweights: Jean-Luc Godard, François Truffaut, Alfred Hitchcock, Isabelle Huppert, Cary Grant and Liza Minnelli. His photojournalism saw him travel across the US, his images bringing to life the words of the investigative reporter in exposing the interesting side of America and documenting the horror of international theatres of conflict.
In conversation with Eye For Film, Young discussed his disinterest in biopics and Hamilton's cinephilic knowledge. He also spoke about creating an historical document and his hopes that Uncropped will not.
- 5/7/2024
- by Paul Risker
- eyeforfilm.co.uk
Warning: This article contains major spoilers for "The Fall Guy."
Don't look now, but Hollywood is going back to its old-school roots with "The Fall Guy." Director David Leitch's throwback blockbuster (reviewed here by /Film's Jacob Hall) not only gives stunt people the overdue celebration that they heartily deserve, but it uses some very tried-and-true methods to do so. Relying almost entirely on the star power of Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt along with the undeniable chemistry sizzling between the two leads, the rom-com masquerading as an action film might as well be shaking audiences by the collar to remind them why we go to the movies in the first place. Although based on a lesser-known television series, this adaptation doesn't resort to the same kinds of gimmicks as typical franchise films.
In fact, it's to the extent that even its biggest and most secretive cameo, saved for a late...
Don't look now, but Hollywood is going back to its old-school roots with "The Fall Guy." Director David Leitch's throwback blockbuster (reviewed here by /Film's Jacob Hall) not only gives stunt people the overdue celebration that they heartily deserve, but it uses some very tried-and-true methods to do so. Relying almost entirely on the star power of Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt along with the undeniable chemistry sizzling between the two leads, the rom-com masquerading as an action film might as well be shaking audiences by the collar to remind them why we go to the movies in the first place. Although based on a lesser-known television series, this adaptation doesn't resort to the same kinds of gimmicks as typical franchise films.
In fact, it's to the extent that even its biggest and most secretive cameo, saved for a late...
- 5/3/2024
- by Jeremy Mathai
- Slash Film
Martin Freeman-starring series “The Responder” has revealed first-look photos of its anticipated second season.
Produced by Fremantle’s Dancing Ledge Productions, it’s set to debut on BBC iPlayer and BBC One on May 5 and will be available on BritBox this summer. Fremantle is handling global distribution. It has also released a trailer.
Written by Tony Schumacher, it will see its conflicted protagonist, police officer Chris, “trying to find his way out of the woods.”
“I am abusing this metaphor, but it’s an evolution. He thinks his life is going to be O.K.,” Schumacher told Variety.
“He has decided to take matters into his own hands,” added Freeman, as Chris finally – and reluctantly – tries therapy.
“He goes: ‘I am going to give it a go, maybe I will learn something.’ It’s about putting yourself in a situation where you can actually get some help. He is...
Produced by Fremantle’s Dancing Ledge Productions, it’s set to debut on BBC iPlayer and BBC One on May 5 and will be available on BritBox this summer. Fremantle is handling global distribution. It has also released a trailer.
Written by Tony Schumacher, it will see its conflicted protagonist, police officer Chris, “trying to find his way out of the woods.”
“I am abusing this metaphor, but it’s an evolution. He thinks his life is going to be O.K.,” Schumacher told Variety.
“He has decided to take matters into his own hands,” added Freeman, as Chris finally – and reluctantly – tries therapy.
“He goes: ‘I am going to give it a go, maybe I will learn something.’ It’s about putting yourself in a situation where you can actually get some help. He is...
- 4/29/2024
- by Marta Balaga and John Hopewell
- Variety Film + TV
Watch just about any media from the mid-20th century and you'll quickly notice something: people smoked a lot more onscreen back then -- like, a lot more. Those born in the current century would no doubt be shocked to learn that even beloved cartoon icons like Donald Duck would light up a pipe or puff away on a stogie when the occasion merited (and that's to say nothing of commercials like the jaw-dropping marketing campaign where Fred Flinstone gets his buddy Barney and his wife Wilma hooked on Winston cigarettes).
Smoking was a useful visual shorthand for a variety of things. When Cruella De Vil spewed a wreath of putrid yellow smoke from her infamous cigarette holder in Disney's animated "101 Dalmatians," you just knew she was trouble, even before dog-napping entered the equation. Alternatively, when Cary Grant carefully lit Eva Marie Saint's cigarette in perhaps the ultimate Alfred Hitchcock picture,...
Smoking was a useful visual shorthand for a variety of things. When Cruella De Vil spewed a wreath of putrid yellow smoke from her infamous cigarette holder in Disney's animated "101 Dalmatians," you just knew she was trouble, even before dog-napping entered the equation. Alternatively, when Cary Grant carefully lit Eva Marie Saint's cigarette in perhaps the ultimate Alfred Hitchcock picture,...
- 4/28/2024
- by Sandy Schaefer
- Slash Film
Alfred Hitchcock’s North By Northwest arrives on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray for its 65th birthday: more on the release here.
Something that’s occasionally forgotten when talking about the work of Alfred Hitchcock is just how big and mainstream his films were. Because he’s now such a revered movie director, he tends to get boxed in towards art house classics sections, when actually, so many of his films are very, very broad churches.
Which leads me to North By Northwest. It took me a while to get to the film for the first time, but this is in its own way a big, broad, blockbuster film. Cary Grant, Eva Marie Saint and James Mason star, in a film that’s got some ambitious set pieces in it. And, well, it’s just a hell of a rollercoaster, that really holds up. Not bad for a movie that’s celebrating its 65th birthday.
Something that’s occasionally forgotten when talking about the work of Alfred Hitchcock is just how big and mainstream his films were. Because he’s now such a revered movie director, he tends to get boxed in towards art house classics sections, when actually, so many of his films are very, very broad churches.
Which leads me to North By Northwest. It took me a while to get to the film for the first time, but this is in its own way a big, broad, blockbuster film. Cary Grant, Eva Marie Saint and James Mason star, in a film that’s got some ambitious set pieces in it. And, well, it’s just a hell of a rollercoaster, that really holds up. Not bad for a movie that’s celebrating its 65th birthday.
- 4/23/2024
- by Simon Brew
- Film Stories
This article contains spoilers for "Star Wars: The Bad Batch" season 3, episode 13, "Into the Breach."
From the very beginning, "Star Wars" has been a smorgasbord of film influences and references. George Lucas cited John Ford and Akira Kurosawa films as chief inspirations for "A New Hope." In fact, here at /Film (and StarWars.com before that), I've written hundreds of articles about the cinematic influences behind "Star Wars."
The latest episode of "The Bad Batch" is no exception. As the Bad Batch further pursues a path to the secret Imperial science facility on Mount Tantiss where Omega is being held, they lead a daring mission to an orbital platform at Coruscant to get the coordinates and affect their rescue. Meanwhile, Omega is held inside a child prison with other gifted kids who are being experimented on. Be that as it may, she knows her brothers are coming for her, and...
From the very beginning, "Star Wars" has been a smorgasbord of film influences and references. George Lucas cited John Ford and Akira Kurosawa films as chief inspirations for "A New Hope." In fact, here at /Film (and StarWars.com before that), I've written hundreds of articles about the cinematic influences behind "Star Wars."
The latest episode of "The Bad Batch" is no exception. As the Bad Batch further pursues a path to the secret Imperial science facility on Mount Tantiss where Omega is being held, they lead a daring mission to an orbital platform at Coruscant to get the coordinates and affect their rescue. Meanwhile, Omega is held inside a child prison with other gifted kids who are being experimented on. Be that as it may, she knows her brothers are coming for her, and...
- 4/17/2024
- by Bryan Young
- Slash Film
Alfred Hitchcock is undoubtedly one of the most influential filmmakers that has ever lived and his films have made a mark on filmmakers today. He has an unusual yet affecting way of inducing suspense and intensity in his films and his works like Psycho, Rebecca, To Catch a Thief, Vertigo, North by Northwest, and The Birds are proof of that.
Alfred Hitchcock’s Vertigo is one of his most acclaimed films
The latter is one of Hitchcock’ most audacious films and actress Tippi Hedren was the lead of the film. The director is known for his rigorous process of bringing his vision to life and this proved to be an excruciating experience for Hedren as she got pecked at by real birds following a last-minute switch-up made by Hitchcock.
Tippi Hedren Was Horrified At Alfred Hitchcock’s Approach While Filming The Birds
Tippi Hedren as Melanie Daniels in Alfred Hitchcock...
Alfred Hitchcock’s Vertigo is one of his most acclaimed films
The latter is one of Hitchcock’ most audacious films and actress Tippi Hedren was the lead of the film. The director is known for his rigorous process of bringing his vision to life and this proved to be an excruciating experience for Hedren as she got pecked at by real birds following a last-minute switch-up made by Hitchcock.
Tippi Hedren Was Horrified At Alfred Hitchcock’s Approach While Filming The Birds
Tippi Hedren as Melanie Daniels in Alfred Hitchcock...
- 4/15/2024
- by Rahul Thokchom
- FandomWire
Mike Feist, Zendaya, and Josh O’Connor in ChallengersImage: Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures
Tennis is notoriously not a sport that lends itself well to the medium of film. The tension in this game is all about the silent moments between points, and continuously hitting a small ball with a racquet doesn’t make for exciting entertainment.
Tennis is notoriously not a sport that lends itself well to the medium of film. The tension in this game is all about the silent moments between points, and continuously hitting a small ball with a racquet doesn’t make for exciting entertainment.
- 4/12/2024
- by Murtada Elfadl
- avclub.com
When searching for powerful and relatable representations of women in film, most people probably don’t turn to the romantic comedy genre first. The leading ladies of romantic comedies typically have a perfect job as a magazine reporter in a stylish big city apartment, where they wake up every morning fresh-faced with a gorgeous hairstyle. A tall and handsome love interest will sneak his way into her life somehow when she least expects it, and they’ll live happily ever after. Unfortunately, life just doesn’t work that way for most women. But that doesn’t mean romantic comedies are unworthy of love from the female film community. They may not be the most prestigious pieces, but hold deep value for women who want to feel uplifted and hopeful when they’re consuming media. Things to do: Subscribe to The Hollywood Insider’s YouTube Channel, by clicking here. Limited Time...
- 4/9/2024
- by Kaitlyn Murphy
- Hollywood Insider - Substance & Meaningful Entertainment
Even before the final moments of No Time to Die made abundantly clear that a James Bond of the Daniel Craig variety would not return, people began wondering about the identity of the next 007. Eon Productions has not yet answered that question, despite rumors that Aaron Taylor-Johnson has been offered the part. Whoever ends up getting the honor to be the face of a new era of Bond, expectations are very high.
It’s a time honored tradition, one that goes all the way back before the first Eon Bond movie Dr. No released in 1962. While that movie, and especially its two follow-ups From Russia With Love (1963) and Goldfinger (1964), established Sean Connery as the Bond by which every other actor is now judged, the character’s creator, the novelist Ian Fleming, had something different in mind for his super spy. In fact, Fleming didn’t want Connery at all.
It’s a time honored tradition, one that goes all the way back before the first Eon Bond movie Dr. No released in 1962. While that movie, and especially its two follow-ups From Russia With Love (1963) and Goldfinger (1964), established Sean Connery as the Bond by which every other actor is now judged, the character’s creator, the novelist Ian Fleming, had something different in mind for his super spy. In fact, Fleming didn’t want Connery at all.
- 4/9/2024
- by Joe George
- Den of Geek
Lashana Lynch became the first woman to own the 007 title in the 2021 James Bond tentpole “No Time to Die,” but it turns out a plan to make James Bond a woman was actually pitched over 60 years prior. In Nicholas Shakespeare’s upcoming biography of Bond author Ian Fleming, titled “Ian Fleming: The Complete Man,” it’s confirmed that producer Gregory Ratoff floated the idea of casting Susan Hayward in a film adaptation of Fleming’s first Bond novel “Casino Royale.”
Shakespeare writes in the biography (via IndieWire): “Since the mid-1950s, many well-known actors had been approached [to play Bond]. Gregory Ratoff had the arresting idea of having Bond played by a woman, Susan Hayward. Ian had entertained several possibilities, from Richard Burton (‘I think that Richard Burton would be by far the best James Bond’), to James Stewart (‘I wouldn’t at all mind him as Bond if he can slightly...
Shakespeare writes in the biography (via IndieWire): “Since the mid-1950s, many well-known actors had been approached [to play Bond]. Gregory Ratoff had the arresting idea of having Bond played by a woman, Susan Hayward. Ian had entertained several possibilities, from Richard Burton (‘I think that Richard Burton would be by far the best James Bond’), to James Stewart (‘I wouldn’t at all mind him as Bond if he can slightly...
- 4/8/2024
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
Yes, a female James Bond has been over a half-century in the making.
Before Lashana Lynch briefly donned the 007 title in “No Time to Die,” the film adaptation of “Dr. No,” a woman was in talks to lead the franchise 50 years prior.
In Nicholas Shakespeare’s upcoming biography of Bond author Ian Fleming, titled “Ian Fleming: The Complete Man,” it’s revealed that original “Casino Royale” producer Gregory Ratoff had imagined a woman in the titular lead role. In fact, Oscar-winning actress Susan Hayward was in Ratoff’s mind to take the part.
Prior to “Casino Royale,” the two Bond films had floundered with “Thunderball” and “Casino Royale” receiving poor reviews, hence the proposed gender-swap.
Shakespeare writes in the biography, “Since the mid-1950s, many well-known actors had been approached. Gregory Ratoff had the arresting idea of having Bond played by a woman, Susan Hayward. Ian had entertained several possibilities,...
Before Lashana Lynch briefly donned the 007 title in “No Time to Die,” the film adaptation of “Dr. No,” a woman was in talks to lead the franchise 50 years prior.
In Nicholas Shakespeare’s upcoming biography of Bond author Ian Fleming, titled “Ian Fleming: The Complete Man,” it’s revealed that original “Casino Royale” producer Gregory Ratoff had imagined a woman in the titular lead role. In fact, Oscar-winning actress Susan Hayward was in Ratoff’s mind to take the part.
Prior to “Casino Royale,” the two Bond films had floundered with “Thunderball” and “Casino Royale” receiving poor reviews, hence the proposed gender-swap.
Shakespeare writes in the biography, “Since the mid-1950s, many well-known actors had been approached. Gregory Ratoff had the arresting idea of having Bond played by a woman, Susan Hayward. Ian had entertained several possibilities,...
- 4/8/2024
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
When David Boreanaz read for FBI agent Seeley Booth in the "Bones" pilot, he instantly thought of "Harry and the Hendersons." It's not hard to see why. The character's relationship with his then newfound partner, the forensic anthropologist Dr. Temperance "Bones" Brennan (Emily Deschanel), readily evokes that between the open-hearted Bigfoot Harry and John Lithgow's uptight, disapproving patriarch George Henderson Jr. in William Dear's Oscar-winning 1987 fantasy comedy film. Much like Harry and George, however, Bones gradually opens up to Booth in spite of his shenanigans and even bids him a teary farewell when he rejoins his fellow federal investigators living in the wilderness.
Alright, alright, fine, Boreanaz actually thought of "Romancing the Stone." Even in the pilot, long before they became a romantic item, Booth and Bones' repartee recalled Robert Zemeckis' 1984 hit action-rom-com, itself a throwback to Golden Age Hollywood screwball comedy and action-adventure classics like "It Happened One Night" and "The African Queen,...
Alright, alright, fine, Boreanaz actually thought of "Romancing the Stone." Even in the pilot, long before they became a romantic item, Booth and Bones' repartee recalled Robert Zemeckis' 1984 hit action-rom-com, itself a throwback to Golden Age Hollywood screwball comedy and action-adventure classics like "It Happened One Night" and "The African Queen,...
- 4/7/2024
- by Sandy Schaefer
- Slash Film
Liam Neeson stars in In the Land of Saints and Sinners, a film directed by Robert Lorenz.
In the golden age of cinema, spanning the 1950s and 60s, a star actor’s presence was so dominant that their character, the one they consistently played, heavily influenced the movie. It used to be a movie tailored for James Stewart or Cary Grant, with minimal variations of their “hero” or “villain” roles.
The same case applies to Liam Neeson, who has embraced this traditional role, heavily influencing nearly every movie he stars in or as we suspect, the films seem to be specifically designed for him. Decades ago, someone decided that this man, Liam Neeson, embodied goodness, whether portraying the character of Oskar Schindler or, in this case, a killer with a heart.
In the Land of Saints and Sinners Plot:
Finbar Murphy is a killer living in an Irish village in...
In the golden age of cinema, spanning the 1950s and 60s, a star actor’s presence was so dominant that their character, the one they consistently played, heavily influenced the movie. It used to be a movie tailored for James Stewart or Cary Grant, with minimal variations of their “hero” or “villain” roles.
The same case applies to Liam Neeson, who has embraced this traditional role, heavily influencing nearly every movie he stars in or as we suspect, the films seem to be specifically designed for him. Decades ago, someone decided that this man, Liam Neeson, embodied goodness, whether portraying the character of Oskar Schindler or, in this case, a killer with a heart.
In the Land of Saints and Sinners Plot:
Finbar Murphy is a killer living in an Irish village in...
- 4/6/2024
- by Molly Se-kyung
- Martin Cid Magazine - Movies
The preview opening of the new exhibit Meet the Stars: 100 Years of MGM Studios and the Golden Age of Hollywood on Thursday night was a crowded, buzzing affair. Held at the Hollywood Heritage Museum in the historic Lasky DeMille Barn across from the Hollywood Bowl, the event showcased the items of over 20 movie collectors. Memorabilia hunters, dressed in fedoras and flirty ’40s dresses, gabbed about their latest finds with others who have a similar passion.
The highlight of the night was when the crowd sang “Happy Birthday” to former MGM child star Cora Sue Collins (who played a little Greta Garbo in 1933’s Queen Christina), the last surviving MGM contract player from the 1930s. Sitting at a tableau that recreated a party thrown for her by MGM in 1935, Collins elegantly thanked everyone for their well wishes. Actor George Chakiris was also in attendance, and he posed next to a costume...
The highlight of the night was when the crowd sang “Happy Birthday” to former MGM child star Cora Sue Collins (who played a little Greta Garbo in 1933’s Queen Christina), the last surviving MGM contract player from the 1930s. Sitting at a tableau that recreated a party thrown for her by MGM in 1935, Collins elegantly thanked everyone for their well wishes. Actor George Chakiris was also in attendance, and he posed next to a costume...
- 4/5/2024
- by Hadley Meares
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
What would movies be about if not for love? Since well before the days of Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman in “Casablanca,” romance has driven countless classic stories, setting up some of the highest highs in cinematic history to follow. Be it Cary Grant and Grace Kelly seeing stars in “To Catch a Thief” or Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal disturbing diner patrons in “When Harry Met Sally,” the 20th century was chock full of iconic romances that helped humanity fall in love with the movies. Of course, those titles were dominated by white artists telling largely heteronormative tales — meaning many (but not all) of the best and most inclusive romances have arrived this millennium.
Now, the best romance movies of the 21st century both resonate and surprise, showing audiences characters they might recognize from their own lives in new and surprising ways. Yes, finding “the one” is exceedingly well-frequented thematic territory,...
Now, the best romance movies of the 21st century both resonate and surprise, showing audiences characters they might recognize from their own lives in new and surprising ways. Yes, finding “the one” is exceedingly well-frequented thematic territory,...
- 3/20/2024
- by Wilson Chapman
- Indiewire
"Batman: The Animated Series" has many artistic fathers. Tim Burton's 1989 "Batman" film, of course, but also the Fleischer Studios Superman cartoons of the 1940s, the Art Deco movement (which the skyscrapers of Gotham City are made in the visage of), and film noir.
Noir is a film genre characterized by dark high-contrast shadows ("noir" means "black" in French) shot in black-and-white, featuring urban settings, crime (whether the lead is on the wrong or right side of the law), beautiful but duplicitous women, and nefarious schemes gone awry. Noir sprouted up in the 1930s-40s, when most films were black-and-white and pulp novels, from thrillers and to detective stories, were easy fodder for Hollywood adaptations. The storytelling motifs of those books were thus intertwined with Hollywood's biting black-and-white style.
"Batman: The Animated Series" was made in color (the villains have costumes running the whole rainbow spectrum), but it was drawn...
Noir is a film genre characterized by dark high-contrast shadows ("noir" means "black" in French) shot in black-and-white, featuring urban settings, crime (whether the lead is on the wrong or right side of the law), beautiful but duplicitous women, and nefarious schemes gone awry. Noir sprouted up in the 1930s-40s, when most films were black-and-white and pulp novels, from thrillers and to detective stories, were easy fodder for Hollywood adaptations. The storytelling motifs of those books were thus intertwined with Hollywood's biting black-and-white style.
"Batman: The Animated Series" was made in color (the villains have costumes running the whole rainbow spectrum), but it was drawn...
- 3/18/2024
- by Devin Meenan
- Slash Film
Sterling K. Brown doesn’t like drawing attention to himself, especially when it comes to fashion. But since earning his first Oscar nomination for best supporting actor for his role in Cord Jefferson’s comedy-drama American Fiction, even more eyes have been on the three-time Emmy-winning TV and film star.
“I’ll be honest with you, it is at times a bit overwhelming, especially when it comes to clothes and all the gear,” says Brown, 47, whose awards season obligations pile on by the day. “You can’t just go back and get your same suit every time. You’ve got to come with a fit that’s got a little bit of drip to it.”
Brown’s had good practice, portraying Clifford Ellison in the film based on Percival Everett’s 2001 novel Erasure. The flamboyant plastic surgeon is the brother of main character Thelonious “Monk” Ellison (Jeffrey Wright), a writer and professor who,...
“I’ll be honest with you, it is at times a bit overwhelming, especially when it comes to clothes and all the gear,” says Brown, 47, whose awards season obligations pile on by the day. “You can’t just go back and get your same suit every time. You’ve got to come with a fit that’s got a little bit of drip to it.”
Brown’s had good practice, portraying Clifford Ellison in the film based on Percival Everett’s 2001 novel Erasure. The flamboyant plastic surgeon is the brother of main character Thelonious “Monk” Ellison (Jeffrey Wright), a writer and professor who,...
- 3/7/2024
- by Brande Victorian
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
If its wins at the recent Screen Actors Guild Awards did not send enough of a message that “Oppenheimer” is far and away the frontrunner for Best Picture at the 2024 Oscars, the film’s receiving the Darryl F. Zanuck Award for Outstanding Producer of Theatrical Motion Pictures at the Producers Guild of America Awards on Sunday, February 25 almost certainly sealed the deal.
In her acceptance speech, “Oppenheimer” executive producer Emma Thomas was quick to to first thank the guild in general for the work that they do, as earlier in the evening, PGA co-presidents Stephanie Allain and Donald De Line announced a historic initiative to fund health insurance for full-time working producers in the guild. After that, however, she was also sure to make note of how writer/director Christopher Nolan (both her husband and business partner) also happens to be “the best producer. He’s absolutely brilliant.”
Nolan himself said that,...
In her acceptance speech, “Oppenheimer” executive producer Emma Thomas was quick to to first thank the guild in general for the work that they do, as earlier in the evening, PGA co-presidents Stephanie Allain and Donald De Line announced a historic initiative to fund health insurance for full-time working producers in the guild. After that, however, she was also sure to make note of how writer/director Christopher Nolan (both her husband and business partner) also happens to be “the best producer. He’s absolutely brilliant.”
Nolan himself said that,...
- 2/26/2024
- by Marcus Jones
- Indiewire
In 1965, Martin Scorsese was 22 and surrounded by legends when he won the Jesse L. Laskey Intercollegiate Award at the Milestone Awards dinner hosted by the then-called Screen Producers Guild on March 8, 1965. Now, almost 60 years later, the filmmaker received the David O. Selznick Achievement Award at the 2024 PGA Awards in what he called a “full-circle” moment.
Guillermo del Toro introduced the Killers of the Flower Moon director and producer at Sunday’s award show, calling him an “indispensable titan.” When Scorsese, now 81, took the stage, he started to tell the story of the 1965 awards show and how he kissed German actress Elke Sommer on stage.
“On the stage, Alfred Hitchcock, James Stewart, Jack Benny, Samuel Goldwyn, Jack Warner and Norman Lear, Lew Wasserman, Julie Stein, Cary Grant, Eva Marie Saint, Janel Leigh, Dick Van Dyke, Elke Sommer and David O. Selznick,” said Scorsese. “They were the people on the dais at...
Guillermo del Toro introduced the Killers of the Flower Moon director and producer at Sunday’s award show, calling him an “indispensable titan.” When Scorsese, now 81, took the stage, he started to tell the story of the 1965 awards show and how he kissed German actress Elke Sommer on stage.
“On the stage, Alfred Hitchcock, James Stewart, Jack Benny, Samuel Goldwyn, Jack Warner and Norman Lear, Lew Wasserman, Julie Stein, Cary Grant, Eva Marie Saint, Janel Leigh, Dick Van Dyke, Elke Sommer and David O. Selznick,” said Scorsese. “They were the people on the dais at...
- 2/26/2024
- by Beatrice Verhoeven
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Martin Scorsese accepted the Producers Guild’s David O. Selznick Achievement Award at the PGA Awards tonight and took the Hollywood & Highland Ovation Ballroom down memory lane — to about 60 years ago, when he accepted a PGA nod for his student film, It’s Not Just You, Murray! at the ripe age of 22.
Painting the scene, the Killers of the Flower Moon filmmaker said: “On the stage, Alfred Hitchcock, James Stewart, Jack Benny, Samuel Goldwyn, Jack Warner and Norman Lear, Lew Wasserman, Julie SteinCary Grant, Eva Marie Saint, Janel Leigh, Dick Van Dyke, Elke Sommer and David O. Selznick. They were the people on the dais at the 13th edition of this event on March 8, 1965. That dinner was called the Milestone Awards Dinner and presented at the Beverly Hilton Hotel.
“At the very end of the dais was me,” Scorsese continued. “I was all the way on the end. I was receiving the Jesse L.
Painting the scene, the Killers of the Flower Moon filmmaker said: “On the stage, Alfred Hitchcock, James Stewart, Jack Benny, Samuel Goldwyn, Jack Warner and Norman Lear, Lew Wasserman, Julie SteinCary Grant, Eva Marie Saint, Janel Leigh, Dick Van Dyke, Elke Sommer and David O. Selznick. They were the people on the dais at the 13th edition of this event on March 8, 1965. That dinner was called the Milestone Awards Dinner and presented at the Beverly Hilton Hotel.
“At the very end of the dais was me,” Scorsese continued. “I was all the way on the end. I was receiving the Jesse L.
- 2/26/2024
- by Anthony D'Alessandro and Fred Topel
- Deadline Film + TV
Playing James Bond is often viewed as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, coveted by actors worldwide. However, American actors have consistently been denied the chance to portray this iconic character on screen. Whether due to contractual constraints or the character’s British nationality, Bond has been portrayed by actors from various backgrounds, including Scottish, Irish, Australian, and English, but never American.
Despite this barrier, there have been moments when American actors nearly became James Bond, with some even signing contracts with the production house.
Clint Eastwood
Clint Eastwood in Bronco Billy
Clint Eastwood, renowned for his portrayal of iconic characters such as The Man with No Name and Dirty Harry, has etched his name in cinematic history with unforgettable performances. Yet, amidst his illustrious career, one notable role has remained conspicuously absent: that of Agent 007, James Bond.
Despite his charisma and undeniable talent, Eastwood’s journey to the world of Bond...
Despite this barrier, there have been moments when American actors nearly became James Bond, with some even signing contracts with the production house.
Clint Eastwood
Clint Eastwood in Bronco Billy
Clint Eastwood, renowned for his portrayal of iconic characters such as The Man with No Name and Dirty Harry, has etched his name in cinematic history with unforgettable performances. Yet, amidst his illustrious career, one notable role has remained conspicuously absent: that of Agent 007, James Bond.
Despite his charisma and undeniable talent, Eastwood’s journey to the world of Bond...
- 2/24/2024
- by Pritha Roy
- FandomWire
When a sitcom reaches a certain level of longevity, it can be easy for writers to take their audience for granted. Storylines get lightly reworked, if not recycled wholesale. Cheap ratings are scored by having a significant character get married (call it the "Rhoda boost"). And there's no better way to guarantee the maximum amount of eyeballs than to have a major celebrity play themselves within the world of our favorite characters.
This typically works. Who can forget the time Bobby Brady faked a serious illness to earn a bedside visit from Joe Namath on "The Brady Bunch," or the time that pint-sized prankster Arnold Jackson pulled the same trick to get Muhammad Ali up to the Drummond's penthouse on "Diff'rent Strokes?" These are memorable episodes to be sure, but there's nothing more to them than the cameo.
It's far more satisfying when you can drop the celeb into...
This typically works. Who can forget the time Bobby Brady faked a serious illness to earn a bedside visit from Joe Namath on "The Brady Bunch," or the time that pint-sized prankster Arnold Jackson pulled the same trick to get Muhammad Ali up to the Drummond's penthouse on "Diff'rent Strokes?" These are memorable episodes to be sure, but there's nothing more to them than the cameo.
It's far more satisfying when you can drop the celeb into...
- 2/17/2024
- by Jeremy Smith
- Slash Film
Before he started filling up the nation's drug store book racks with tawdry tales of romance and suspense, Sidney Sheldon was one of Hollywood and Broadway's most prolific writers. He could write comedies, musicals, musical-comedies, mysteries, dramas, thrillers ... just about everything short of slasher flicks (though he probably would've knocked out one of those had they been a thing during his 1940s - '60s heyday). Clearly, he had an ear for what worked, and he wasn't just knocking out quickie programmers. He won a Best Original Screenplay Oscar for the Cary Grant-Myrna Loy-Shirley Temple screwball hit "The Bachelor and the Bobby-Soxer," and earned a Best Musical Tony for the Gwen Verdon-led Broadway smash "Redhead."
And when television came calling, rather than turn up his nose as many of his established film and theater colleagues did during the medium's early days, he enthusiastically picked up the phone.
Sheldon...
And when television came calling, rather than turn up his nose as many of his established film and theater colleagues did during the medium's early days, he enthusiastically picked up the phone.
Sheldon...
- 2/16/2024
- by Jeremy Smith
- Slash Film
Courtesy of Studiocanal
by James Cameron-wilson
1960 was a year that sent shockwaves throughout the film industry. Alfred Hitchcock, who was to direct Anna Massey twelve years later in his lurid thriller Frenzy – about a serial killer in central London – opened a movie called Psycho. Psycho was significant in several regards. Hitchcock refused to show the film to critics and barred his two leads, Anthony Perkins and Janet Leigh, from doing any promotional interviews as he wanted total control over the film’s publicity and its content. This was in June of 1960. Two months earlier another celebrated filmmaker had released an equally shocking film called Peeping Tom and whose critical reception ruined both the movie and the reputation of its director, Michael Powell. Hitchcock wanted audiences to judge Psycho for themselves. Most audiences never got a chance to evaluate Peeping Tom.
Both films were about serial killers and both showed the murderer as a self-effacing,...
by James Cameron-wilson
1960 was a year that sent shockwaves throughout the film industry. Alfred Hitchcock, who was to direct Anna Massey twelve years later in his lurid thriller Frenzy – about a serial killer in central London – opened a movie called Psycho. Psycho was significant in several regards. Hitchcock refused to show the film to critics and barred his two leads, Anthony Perkins and Janet Leigh, from doing any promotional interviews as he wanted total control over the film’s publicity and its content. This was in June of 1960. Two months earlier another celebrated filmmaker had released an equally shocking film called Peeping Tom and whose critical reception ruined both the movie and the reputation of its director, Michael Powell. Hitchcock wanted audiences to judge Psycho for themselves. Most audiences never got a chance to evaluate Peeping Tom.
Both films were about serial killers and both showed the murderer as a self-effacing,...
- 2/15/2024
- by James Cameron-Wilson
- Film Review Daily
From left: Enchanted (Buena Vista Pictures), When Harry Met Sally (Columbia Pictures), Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (FilmPublicityArchive/United Archives via Getty Images)Graphic: The A.V. Club
Chemistry is perhaps the most elusive of all cinematic ingredients. Critics can point to craft in elements like directorial technique, set design, editing, and the...
Chemistry is perhaps the most elusive of all cinematic ingredients. Critics can point to craft in elements like directorial technique, set design, editing, and the...
- 2/14/2024
- by Gwen Ihnat, A.A. Dowd, David Anthony, Becca James, Caitlin PenzeyMoog, Alex McLevy, Danette Chavez, Ignatiy Vishnevetsky, Cameron Scheetz, and Marah Eakin
- avclub.com
Clockwise from top left: Notting Hill (Universal Pictures), Love & Basketball (New Line Cinema), Amelie (20th Century Fox),Say Anything (Ugc-Fox Distribution)Graphic: The A.V. Club
Running through the airport to stop a lover’s flight. Making a big speech in front of a crowd of strangers. Picking the perfect song for a serenade.
Running through the airport to stop a lover’s flight. Making a big speech in front of a crowd of strangers. Picking the perfect song for a serenade.
- 2/12/2024
- by Mary Kate Carr, Gabrielle Sanchez, and Saloni Gajjar
- avclub.com
It’s no wonder the 1940s boast an outsize share of romantic classics. As Americans flocked to theaters seeking an escape, the booming studios fed them a steady stream of hits coupling Holly-wood’s major stars. Here are our faves. In the 1942 drama Casablanca (on Max) the backdrop of Nazi-occupied French Morocco intensifies the stakes of a rekindled affair between world-weary café owner Rick (Humphrey Bogart) and the married Ilsa (Ingrid Bergman). Alfred Hitchcock’s film noir Notorious sets up an agonizing romance for Cary Grant as a postwar spymaster and Bergman as the daughter of a convicted Nazi, forced to sacrifice their relationship for a mission that could get her killed. Cary Grant and Ingrid Bergman in Notorious (Everett Collection) A trio of legends—Katharine Hepburn, Cary Grant and James Stewart—have one of the wittiest love triangles in rom-com history in 1940’s The Philadelphia Story (on Tubi). Hepburn...
- 2/12/2024
- TV Insider
When "Alfred Hitchcock Presents" first premiered on CBS in October 1955, the episodic half-hour anthology series immediately gained immense popularity. Hosted by Hitchcock himself, every episode opened with the director's silhouette and Charles Gounod's "Funeral March of a Marionette" playing in the background, which became a cultural landmark in itself. As Hitchcock believed that the show's half-hour format did not do justice to the intricate anthology tales of suspense and terror, the episodic duration was subsequently extended when the show was revamped and retitled to "The Alfred Hitchcock Hour," which ran from 1962 to 1965.
Per John McCarty and Brian Kelleher's "Alfred Hitchcock Presents: An Illustrated Guide to the Ten-year Television Career of the Master of Suspense," NBC (where the show ended up airing alternatively), after witnessing the success of Hitchcock's show, started planning a brand new mystery/suspense anthology that was set to run from 1957 through 1958. This unofficial spin-off was titled "Suspicion,...
Per John McCarty and Brian Kelleher's "Alfred Hitchcock Presents: An Illustrated Guide to the Ten-year Television Career of the Master of Suspense," NBC (where the show ended up airing alternatively), after witnessing the success of Hitchcock's show, started planning a brand new mystery/suspense anthology that was set to run from 1957 through 1958. This unofficial spin-off was titled "Suspicion,...
- 2/11/2024
- by Debopriyaa Dutta
- Slash Film
There’s no question that the James Bond film franchise – the second longest-running such series in cinema history after Godzilla – comes with certain expectations in the minds of viewers. We can predict, mostly like clockwork, that 007 will wear a tux at some point in every film, he will bed at least one or more beautiful women, he’ll drive an Aston Martin (or some other high-end vehicle), and that he’ll have one polite conversation with the villain before the shooting really starts. There will also be a surreal, psychedelic credits sequence, often a big action scene before the credits, and so on.
But all those iconic trademarks of the Bond film franchise didn’t happen overnight. They were gradually introduced, especially in the early films, with some of them springing from the original Ian Fleming books and others invented by the filmmakers who adapted them. Some have remained virtually the same since their inception,...
But all those iconic trademarks of the Bond film franchise didn’t happen overnight. They were gradually introduced, especially in the early films, with some of them springing from the original Ian Fleming books and others invented by the filmmakers who adapted them. Some have remained virtually the same since their inception,...
- 2/10/2024
- by Don Kaye
- Den of Geek
Clockwise from top left: Priceless (Screengrab); 2 Days In Paris (Screengrab); Jeffrey (Screengrab); Something’s Gotta Give (Screengrab); The Big Sick (Amazon/Lionsgate); My Man Godfrey (Screengrab)
Lovers of romantic comedies have an array of options on Amazon Prime Video—particularly when it comes to oldies but goodies. Cary Grant classics abound,...
Lovers of romantic comedies have an array of options on Amazon Prime Video—particularly when it comes to oldies but goodies. Cary Grant classics abound,...
- 2/10/2024
- by The A.V. Club
- avclub.com
Sam Rockwell probably isn’t anyone’s idea of a suave secret agent, but that seems to be just the point for director Matthew Vaughn. He cast the Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri Oscar winner against type and let him rip with a witty, eminently watchable performance that lets him steal every scene he is in.
If only the movie, Argylle, were a star vehicle for him in the same way that, say, Hitchcock’s North by Northwest was for Cary Grant in its day, this pseudo spy thriller might have been a classic. But unfortunately too much of it, especially the final half hour of this two-hour-plus frenetic action picture, just throws it all against the wall to see what sticks. It will have your head spinning trying to keep up with a far-too-busy set of characters playing mind games with us in a twisted scenario that spins out...
If only the movie, Argylle, were a star vehicle for him in the same way that, say, Hitchcock’s North by Northwest was for Cary Grant in its day, this pseudo spy thriller might have been a classic. But unfortunately too much of it, especially the final half hour of this two-hour-plus frenetic action picture, just throws it all against the wall to see what sticks. It will have your head spinning trying to keep up with a far-too-busy set of characters playing mind games with us in a twisted scenario that spins out...
- 1/31/2024
- by Pete Hammond
- Deadline Film + TV
Denzel Washington, Anna Kendrick, Tom Cruise, Jeremy RennerScreenshot: Sony, Photo: Lionsgate, Paramount
Every streaming service offers a wide range of film genres, but Amazon Prime Video seems to be particularly focused on the action-adventure sector. If you’re looking for pulse-pounding, edge-of-your-seat thrills, the streamer makes for a solid starting point.
Every streaming service offers a wide range of film genres, but Amazon Prime Video seems to be particularly focused on the action-adventure sector. If you’re looking for pulse-pounding, edge-of-your-seat thrills, the streamer makes for a solid starting point.
- 1/31/2024
- by The A.V. Club
- avclub.com
Exclusive: Matthew Vaughn reveals that last year he received what he terms “flattering” offers to sell Marv Films, the production company behind productions that include the Kick-Ass and Kingsman franchises and the Apple Original Films romance spy-thriller Argylle. That film is having its world premiere today in London, ahead of its February 2 U.S. theatrical release through Universal.
Marv is owned and controlled by Vaughn and Claudia Schiffer, his wife of 23 years. At the time, he says, “everyone was buying everything, and it was all very flattering and tempting.”
Vaughn admits he that nearly entered into a deal to sell, but his biggest mentor — whom he won’t name — cautioned him, saying, ”There’s no money in the world which would make it worthwhile for you having a boss.”
Vaughn shot back, “What do you mean?” And his friend went, ”Trust me, it will be a f*cking disaster.”
The...
Marv is owned and controlled by Vaughn and Claudia Schiffer, his wife of 23 years. At the time, he says, “everyone was buying everything, and it was all very flattering and tempting.”
Vaughn admits he that nearly entered into a deal to sell, but his biggest mentor — whom he won’t name — cautioned him, saying, ”There’s no money in the world which would make it worthwhile for you having a boss.”
Vaughn shot back, “What do you mean?” And his friend went, ”Trust me, it will be a f*cking disaster.”
The...
- 1/24/2024
- by Baz Bamigboye
- Deadline Film + TV
Since the establishment of the Academy Awards in 1929, exactly 60 films have achieved lone lead male acting nominations, meaning they were each recognized in the Best Actor category and nowhere else. The last such instance occurred in 2023 and involved “Aftersun” star Paul Mescal, who, at 26, stood out as the youngest member of a lineup consisting only of first-time Oscar contenders. Although his low-budget movie had a strong shot at an original screenplay bid and was viewed as a serious Best Picture candidate, it ended up getting no love outside the acting branch.
Before Mescal was recognized, his category hadn’t seen a lone nominee since Willem Dafoe earned his first lead bid for “At Eternity’s Gate” in 2019. This was the ninth time that four or more years separated consecutive Best Actor loners, with the single largest gap having spread between Cary Grant and Clifton Webb. Such nominations appear to be becoming less common in this category,...
Before Mescal was recognized, his category hadn’t seen a lone nominee since Willem Dafoe earned his first lead bid for “At Eternity’s Gate” in 2019. This was the ninth time that four or more years separated consecutive Best Actor loners, with the single largest gap having spread between Cary Grant and Clifton Webb. Such nominations appear to be becoming less common in this category,...
- 1/22/2024
- by Matthew Stewart
- Gold Derby
He was born Archibald Alec Leach in South West England on January 18, 1904. As a teen, he became attracted to show biz at an early age, becoming friends with a troupe of acrobats and doing odd jobs while hanging out backstage at theaters. At 16, he would travel by ship to the United States, where he would eventually change his name to Cary Grant after signing his first movie contract in 1931. He became one of the most admired and beloved leading men that Hollywood would ever produce.
Grant’s suave looks and elegant voice served him well when he started acting in films, but his artistry and nuance on screen matured considerably over the years. He would work with the master Alfred Hitchcock several times, including “North by Northwest,” “Notorious” and “To Catch a Thief.” Grant was also quite deft with comedy roles, including “His Girl Friday,” “The Awful Truth,” “Arsenic and Old Lace...
Grant’s suave looks and elegant voice served him well when he started acting in films, but his artistry and nuance on screen matured considerably over the years. He would work with the master Alfred Hitchcock several times, including “North by Northwest,” “Notorious” and “To Catch a Thief.” Grant was also quite deft with comedy roles, including “His Girl Friday,” “The Awful Truth,” “Arsenic and Old Lace...
- 1/12/2024
- by Susan Wloszczyna, Misty Holland and Chris Beachum
- Gold Derby
On Jan. 11, 1940, Columbia bowed director-producer Howard Hawks’ newspaper comedy His Girl Friday, starring Cary Grant and Rosalind Russell, at Radio City Music Hall in New York. The Hollywood Reporter’s original review is below:
With the original Hildy Johnson of the Hecht-MacArthur newspaper yarn, Front Page, metamorphized into Hildegarde Johnson and played by Rosalind Russell, Columbia has made a fast-moving, always interesting picture out of the story. There may, and probably will be those who will say it is not up to the former version, but it nevertheless furnishes good entertainment.
In the present version, Hildegarde is the former wife of the editor, played by Cary Grant, and instead of wishing to retire, as did Hildy, she wants to marry an insurance salesman (Ralph Bellamy). It is to prevent this marriage that the complications, instigated by Grant, ensue. Also, the twist of making the star reporter a woman gives opportunity for some new situations,...
With the original Hildy Johnson of the Hecht-MacArthur newspaper yarn, Front Page, metamorphized into Hildegarde Johnson and played by Rosalind Russell, Columbia has made a fast-moving, always interesting picture out of the story. There may, and probably will be those who will say it is not up to the former version, but it nevertheless furnishes good entertainment.
In the present version, Hildegarde is the former wife of the editor, played by Cary Grant, and instead of wishing to retire, as did Hildy, she wants to marry an insurance salesman (Ralph Bellamy). It is to prevent this marriage that the complications, instigated by Grant, ensue. Also, the twist of making the star reporter a woman gives opportunity for some new situations,...
- 1/10/2024
- by THR Staff
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
"It's A Wonderful Life" is an unforgettable classic that renews itself every holiday season. The striking narrative articulates strong morals, like the importance of family and an individual's importance in a community, punctuated by almost hallucinogenic imagery of the ground opening up beneath one's feet. It's a heartwrenching picture made all the emotional by the sentimentality of Christmastime. The Frank Capra film is nostalgic for everyone, from older people who watched it as a child to the generations to follow who passed down the tradition to their children. Most kids aren't dying to sit down and watch a black-and-white talkie from studio-era Hollywood, and yet the film's fanbase gains new members every year.
But as the 1946 film ages, so too does its cast, and many of the main cast members have not made it to 2024, including leading man Jimmy Stewart. In fact, most of the adults in the film passed...
But as the 1946 film ages, so too does its cast, and many of the main cast members have not made it to 2024, including leading man Jimmy Stewart. In fact, most of the adults in the film passed...
- 1/7/2024
- by Shae Sennett
- Slash Film
You probably know the premise of "Bones." Set in Washington DC, forensic anthropologist Dr. Temperance "Bones" Brennan (Emily Deschanel) and FBI agent Seeley Booth (David Boreanaz) solve murders by studying the mortal remains of the victims. Or do they?
For the show's 200th episode, "The 200th in the 10th", the team decided to do something totally different (and non-canon). In this episode, the show moves to 1950s Los Angeles, where Brennan is an LAPD detective pursuing Booth, a jewel thief. At his latest robbery, Booth finds a burnt skeleton while safecracking and is immediately labeled as suspect No. 1 of the murder. Brennan, knowing it's not Booth's Mo, recruits her quarry to solve this new case together. Hey, after 10 seasons, a show has earned the right to swing for the fences!
"The 200th in the 10th" is made in the style of Old Hollywood thrillers, especially Alfred Hitchcock's 1950s technicolor noir films.
For the show's 200th episode, "The 200th in the 10th", the team decided to do something totally different (and non-canon). In this episode, the show moves to 1950s Los Angeles, where Brennan is an LAPD detective pursuing Booth, a jewel thief. At his latest robbery, Booth finds a burnt skeleton while safecracking and is immediately labeled as suspect No. 1 of the murder. Brennan, knowing it's not Booth's Mo, recruits her quarry to solve this new case together. Hey, after 10 seasons, a show has earned the right to swing for the fences!
"The 200th in the 10th" is made in the style of Old Hollywood thrillers, especially Alfred Hitchcock's 1950s technicolor noir films.
- 1/6/2024
- by Devin Meenan
- Slash Film
If you're anything like us, you can still hear the sound -- that sickening ping that marked the end of Jennifer Coolidge's tenure as the best part of The White Lotus.
Sorry for opening with a spoiler, but hey -- it's been over a year!
In case you managed to successfully block the incident from your memory, Coolidge's lovably ditzy Tanya McQuoid-Hunt dispatched a crew of gangsters who had it out for her -- but then she fatally conked her head while escaping from the yacht where she'd been held captive.
It was arguably the saddest exit from a show that's given us a couple of them so far.
But on the upside, now there's room for a whole new slate of guests to enjoy a stay at our favorite chain of fictitious luxury resorts!
And based on this week's casting announcement, it sounds like we're in for another round of Emmy-worthy performances.
Sorry for opening with a spoiler, but hey -- it's been over a year!
In case you managed to successfully block the incident from your memory, Coolidge's lovably ditzy Tanya McQuoid-Hunt dispatched a crew of gangsters who had it out for her -- but then she fatally conked her head while escaping from the yacht where she'd been held captive.
It was arguably the saddest exit from a show that's given us a couple of them so far.
But on the upside, now there's room for a whole new slate of guests to enjoy a stay at our favorite chain of fictitious luxury resorts!
And based on this week's casting announcement, it sounds like we're in for another round of Emmy-worthy performances.
- 1/5/2024
- by Tyler Johnson
- TVfanatic
Alice Walker published her acclaimed novel “The Color Purple” in 1982. It sold five million copies; Walker became the first Black woman to win the Pulitzer Prize and she also received the National Book Club Award. Three years later, Steven Spielberg directed the lauded film version which made stars out of Whoopi Goldberg, Oprah Winfrey and Danny Glover. It earned 11 Oscar nominations. The story revolves around a young woman who suffers abuse from her father and husband for four decades until she finds her own identity. Not exactly the stuff of a Broadway musical.
But the 2005 tuner version received strong reviews, ran 910 performances and earned ten Tony nominations, winning best actress for Lachanze. The 2015 production picked up two Tonys for best revival and actress for Cynthia Erivo. The movie musical version opened strong Christmas Day with $18 million and is a strong contender in several Oscar categories especially for Fantasia Barrino and Danielle Brooks.
But the 2005 tuner version received strong reviews, ran 910 performances and earned ten Tony nominations, winning best actress for Lachanze. The 2015 production picked up two Tonys for best revival and actress for Cynthia Erivo. The movie musical version opened strong Christmas Day with $18 million and is a strong contender in several Oscar categories especially for Fantasia Barrino and Danielle Brooks.
- 1/2/2024
- by Susan King
- Gold Derby
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.