Movie News
Freddy Fazbear will return to haunt multiplexes in 2025.
Universal and Blumhouse’s “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2,” a horror sequel set in the haunted Chuck E. Cheese-esque establishment known as Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza, will land in theaters on Dec. 5, 2025.
Universal added several Blumhouse titles to its release calendar, including “The Woman in the Yard” and “Drop”. The studio also shifted the dates for two other buzzy sequels: “M3GAN 2.0” from May 16, 2025, to June 27, 2025; and “The Black Phone 2” from June 27, 2025, to Oct. 17, 2025.
“Five Nights at Freddy’s,” adapted from the popular video game, made a killing at the box office last October with $297 million globally and became Blumhouse’s highest-grossing film of all time — all while streaming simultaneously on Peacock. Josh Hutcherson starred in the original as a nighttime security guard at Freddys Fazbear’s Pizza, where the animatronic mascots are prone to murder. The studio hasn’t clarified who is returning for the follow-up,...
Universal and Blumhouse’s “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2,” a horror sequel set in the haunted Chuck E. Cheese-esque establishment known as Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza, will land in theaters on Dec. 5, 2025.
Universal added several Blumhouse titles to its release calendar, including “The Woman in the Yard” and “Drop”. The studio also shifted the dates for two other buzzy sequels: “M3GAN 2.0” from May 16, 2025, to June 27, 2025; and “The Black Phone 2” from June 27, 2025, to Oct. 17, 2025.
“Five Nights at Freddy’s,” adapted from the popular video game, made a killing at the box office last October with $297 million globally and became Blumhouse’s highest-grossing film of all time — all while streaming simultaneously on Peacock. Josh Hutcherson starred in the original as a nighttime security guard at Freddys Fazbear’s Pizza, where the animatronic mascots are prone to murder. The studio hasn’t clarified who is returning for the follow-up,...
- 5/16/2024
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
Lily Allen is the latest star ready to lighten up Night and Day, an adaptation of the comedic Virginia Woolf novel.
The singer and actress joins a cast that includes Haley Bennett, Elyas M’Barek and Timothy Spall, who will bring to life the 1919 novel revolving around the daily lives and romances of two women. Katharine Hilbery (Bennett), is an Edwardian astronomer who avoids love, while Mary (Allen) is a straight-talking, fearless, funny suffragette. Jack Farthing rounds out the cast for the feature.
Justine Waddell penned the script and will produce, with BAFTA nominee Tina Gharavi directing the feature, which is aiming to shoot this fall in Newcastle, England and Cologne, Germany.
Financing company FilmHedge has come on board to back the project, withs its founder and CEO Jon Gosier and its COO Chandler Heinz Laun serving as executive producers, along with Konstantin Korenchuk.
Producers include Christopher Figg, Meg Thomson and German co-producers Glisk,...
The singer and actress joins a cast that includes Haley Bennett, Elyas M’Barek and Timothy Spall, who will bring to life the 1919 novel revolving around the daily lives and romances of two women. Katharine Hilbery (Bennett), is an Edwardian astronomer who avoids love, while Mary (Allen) is a straight-talking, fearless, funny suffragette. Jack Farthing rounds out the cast for the feature.
Justine Waddell penned the script and will produce, with BAFTA nominee Tina Gharavi directing the feature, which is aiming to shoot this fall in Newcastle, England and Cologne, Germany.
Financing company FilmHedge has come on board to back the project, withs its founder and CEO Jon Gosier and its COO Chandler Heinz Laun serving as executive producers, along with Konstantin Korenchuk.
Producers include Christopher Figg, Meg Thomson and German co-producers Glisk,...
- 5/16/2024
- by Aaron Couch
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The “Silent Hill” film franchise continues with “Return to Silent Hill,” the latest adaptation of the hit horror anthology video game series. Variety has the first look at the famed monster Pyramid Head in the Christophe Gans-directed film, which is previewing at the Cannes Film Festival.
After helming the “Silent Hill” in 2006, Gans returns to direct the next installment from a script he co-with Sandra Vo-Anh and William Josef Schneider. The project is produced by Victor Hadida for Davis Films, Molly Hassell for Hassell Free Productions and David Wulf.
“Return to Silent Hill” is based on “Silent Hill 2,” the second and most popular game in Konami’s successful video game series, which has been named to top video game lists by Time Magazine, IGN and more. Originally released in 2001 for PlayStation 2, “Silent Hill 2,” is widely considered the best game in the series (and introduced the Pyramid Head character.
After helming the “Silent Hill” in 2006, Gans returns to direct the next installment from a script he co-with Sandra Vo-Anh and William Josef Schneider. The project is produced by Victor Hadida for Davis Films, Molly Hassell for Hassell Free Productions and David Wulf.
“Return to Silent Hill” is based on “Silent Hill 2,” the second and most popular game in Konami’s successful video game series, which has been named to top video game lists by Time Magazine, IGN and more. Originally released in 2001 for PlayStation 2, “Silent Hill 2,” is widely considered the best game in the series (and introduced the Pyramid Head character.
- 5/16/2024
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety - Film News
Lionsgate is developing a John Wick spinoff movie around Donnie Yen’s Caine assassin character.
Yen will reprise his John Wick: Chapter 4 role in the untitled project set to shoot in Hong Kong in 2025. The franchise expanding film, with no director yet announced, will follow the events of John Wick 4 as Caine has been freed from his obligations to the High Table.
The project also follows Yen, a veteran Hong Kong action hero, pushing back against what he claimed were Asian stereotypes in the original script for John Wick 4. After some prodding, John Wick 4 director Chad Stahelski agreed to change the name and clothes for Yen’s character.
China-born Yen is a household name internationally thanks to his hugely popular and acclaimed Ip Man movie series, and he has crossed over to Hollywood with outings in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, which grossed over a billion dollars,...
Yen will reprise his John Wick: Chapter 4 role in the untitled project set to shoot in Hong Kong in 2025. The franchise expanding film, with no director yet announced, will follow the events of John Wick 4 as Caine has been freed from his obligations to the High Table.
The project also follows Yen, a veteran Hong Kong action hero, pushing back against what he claimed were Asian stereotypes in the original script for John Wick 4. After some prodding, John Wick 4 director Chad Stahelski agreed to change the name and clothes for Yen’s character.
China-born Yen is a household name internationally thanks to his hugely popular and acclaimed Ip Man movie series, and he has crossed over to Hollywood with outings in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, which grossed over a billion dollars,...
- 5/15/2024
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Natasha Lyonne is joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
The actor, best known for the TV shows “Russian Doll” and “Poker Face,” has been cast in Disney’s upcoming “The Fantastic Four” reboot. It’s not clear who Lyonne will portray in the comic book adventure.
Created for Marvel Comics by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, “The Fantastic Four” centers around Marvel’s First Family. This iteration of the superhero quartet will star Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards (aka Mr. Fantastic), Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm (aka the Invisible Woman), Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm (aka the Human Torch) and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm (aka the Thing). Other already-announced cast members include Julia Garner as the Silver Surfer, Paul Walter-Hauser and John Malkovich.
Matt Shakman, whose credits include “WandaVision,” is directing “The Fantastic Four” from a script by Josh Friedman, Jeff Kaplan, Eric Pearson and Ian Springer. Production is expected...
The actor, best known for the TV shows “Russian Doll” and “Poker Face,” has been cast in Disney’s upcoming “The Fantastic Four” reboot. It’s not clear who Lyonne will portray in the comic book adventure.
Created for Marvel Comics by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, “The Fantastic Four” centers around Marvel’s First Family. This iteration of the superhero quartet will star Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards (aka Mr. Fantastic), Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm (aka the Invisible Woman), Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm (aka the Human Torch) and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm (aka the Thing). Other already-announced cast members include Julia Garner as the Silver Surfer, Paul Walter-Hauser and John Malkovich.
Matt Shakman, whose credits include “WandaVision,” is directing “The Fantastic Four” from a script by Josh Friedman, Jeff Kaplan, Eric Pearson and Ian Springer. Production is expected...
- 5/15/2024
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
“If,” a fantasy-comedy from director John Krasinski and star Ryan Reynolds, looks to collect a promising $40 million in its box office debut.
Based on projections, “If” — short for imaginary friends — is tracking to land at least $35 million and as much as $45 million from 4,000 North American theaters. At the higher end of estimates, those ticket sales would mark a solid start for a live-action PG family film that’s not based on an existing property. But the movie cost $110 million, so it’ll need to resonate globally to justify its price tag. Ahead of its domestic release, “If” opened last weekend in two overseas markets, France and Belgium, where it’s earned $3.7 million to date. It lands this week in 56 additional international territories.
Krasinski wrote, directed and stars in “If,” which follows neighbors Cal and Bea (Reynolds and Cailey Fleming) with the ability to see other people’s imaginary friends. While...
Based on projections, “If” — short for imaginary friends — is tracking to land at least $35 million and as much as $45 million from 4,000 North American theaters. At the higher end of estimates, those ticket sales would mark a solid start for a live-action PG family film that’s not based on an existing property. But the movie cost $110 million, so it’ll need to resonate globally to justify its price tag. Ahead of its domestic release, “If” opened last weekend in two overseas markets, France and Belgium, where it’s earned $3.7 million to date. It lands this week in 56 additional international territories.
Krasinski wrote, directed and stars in “If,” which follows neighbors Cal and Bea (Reynolds and Cailey Fleming) with the ability to see other people’s imaginary friends. While...
- 5/15/2024
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety - Film News
DC Studios is wasting no time in setting a release date for Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow now that the movie has found its director.
The high-profile movie will fly into cinemas on June 26, 2026, DC and Warner Bros. announced Tuesday. It is the second film to receive a release date since James Gunn and Peter Safran were brought in to overhaul DC under the new banner DC Studios. The first was Superman, which Gunn is currently shooting for a July 2025 release date.
Flimmaker Craig Gillespie was tapped by Gunn and Safran to shepherd Supergirl, which stars Milly Alcock (House of the Dragon). She’ll play Superman’s Kara Zor-El, the cousin of Superman. The feature film, from a script by Ana Nogueira, is inspired by the Tom King and Bilquis Evely comic, and will depart from the earnest take on the character seen on the CW Supergirl series.
The plan is...
The high-profile movie will fly into cinemas on June 26, 2026, DC and Warner Bros. announced Tuesday. It is the second film to receive a release date since James Gunn and Peter Safran were brought in to overhaul DC under the new banner DC Studios. The first was Superman, which Gunn is currently shooting for a July 2025 release date.
Flimmaker Craig Gillespie was tapped by Gunn and Safran to shepherd Supergirl, which stars Milly Alcock (House of the Dragon). She’ll play Superman’s Kara Zor-El, the cousin of Superman. The feature film, from a script by Ana Nogueira, is inspired by the Tom King and Bilquis Evely comic, and will depart from the earnest take on the character seen on the CW Supergirl series.
The plan is...
- 5/14/2024
- by Pamela McClintock
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Warner Bros. is aiming for a flawless victory, dating “Mortal Kombat 2” for an IMAX release on Oct. 24, 2025.
The New Line sequel, first announced in January 2022, will be written by Jeremy Slater, best known for the Disney Plus Marvel series “Moon Knight.” Simon McQuoid, who directed “Mortal Kombat,” returns to direct the follow-up. Karl Urban, Adeline Rudolph, Lewis Tan, Jessica McNamee, Josh Lawson, Tadanobu Asano, Mehcad Brooks, Ludi Lin, Damon Herriman, Tati Gabrielle Martyn Ford, Max Huang and Ana Thu Nguyen star, with Chin Han, Joe Taslim and Hiroyuki Sanada. Todd Garner, James Wan, Simon McQuoid, E. Bennett Walsh and Toby Emmerich are producing.
The first “Mortal Kombat,” a martial arts-inspired adaptation of the popular video game created by Ed Boon and John Tobias, opened in theaters and on HBO Max in April 2021, earning $42 million domestically and $83 million worldwide.
In a 2021 interview with Variety, McQuoid hinted at characters he’d...
The New Line sequel, first announced in January 2022, will be written by Jeremy Slater, best known for the Disney Plus Marvel series “Moon Knight.” Simon McQuoid, who directed “Mortal Kombat,” returns to direct the follow-up. Karl Urban, Adeline Rudolph, Lewis Tan, Jessica McNamee, Josh Lawson, Tadanobu Asano, Mehcad Brooks, Ludi Lin, Damon Herriman, Tati Gabrielle Martyn Ford, Max Huang and Ana Thu Nguyen star, with Chin Han, Joe Taslim and Hiroyuki Sanada. Todd Garner, James Wan, Simon McQuoid, E. Bennett Walsh and Toby Emmerich are producing.
The first “Mortal Kombat,” a martial arts-inspired adaptation of the popular video game created by Ed Boon and John Tobias, opened in theaters and on HBO Max in April 2021, earning $42 million domestically and $83 million worldwide.
In a 2021 interview with Variety, McQuoid hinted at characters he’d...
- 5/14/2024
- by Katcy Stephan
- Variety - Film News
Stephen Curry has netted a new scripted project as the basketball superstar continues making inroads as a Hollywood playmaker.
Curry’s producing banner Unanimous Media and David Henrie’s Cedar Hill are developing the basketball-focused comedy feature Trick Shot. A director has yet to be attached to the film that has a script from Jay Longino, whose previous writing credits include Uncle Drew (2018) and Skiptrace (2016).
Trick Shot centers on a middle school student who is dismal at basketball until a freak accident occurs, and he suddenly can’t miss a shot. His newfound hoops talent leads him to become an unexpected NBA rookie, where he is soon an integral member of his favorite team.
Producers include Curry and Erick Peyton for Unanimous Media, David Henrie and James Henrie for Cedar Hill and Ben Everard for Everard Entertainment. Longino and Unanimous’ Brian Testuro Ivie serve as executive producers.
Curry is a...
Curry’s producing banner Unanimous Media and David Henrie’s Cedar Hill are developing the basketball-focused comedy feature Trick Shot. A director has yet to be attached to the film that has a script from Jay Longino, whose previous writing credits include Uncle Drew (2018) and Skiptrace (2016).
Trick Shot centers on a middle school student who is dismal at basketball until a freak accident occurs, and he suddenly can’t miss a shot. His newfound hoops talent leads him to become an unexpected NBA rookie, where he is soon an integral member of his favorite team.
Producers include Curry and Erick Peyton for Unanimous Media, David Henrie and James Henrie for Cedar Hill and Ben Everard for Everard Entertainment. Longino and Unanimous’ Brian Testuro Ivie serve as executive producers.
Curry is a...
- 5/16/2024
- by Ryan Gajewski
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Horror and thriller directors Michael and Peter Spierig (Lionsgate’s Jigsaw) are set to direct Fall 2, it was announced by Capstone Studios’ CEO Christian Mercuri. Scott Mann, who directed and co-wrote the first film, is returning to co-write Fall 2 with Jonathan Frank.
Following the successful survival thriller Fall released in 2022 by Lionsgate, Fall 2 will reunite producers Mark Lane and James Harris of Tea Shop Productions (47 Meters Down), Capstone’s Christian Mercuri, David Haring, and Scott Mann via the Flawless banner.
Dan Asma, John Long, and Roman Viaris will also reunite as executive producers alongside Capstone’s Ruzanna Kegeyan. Capstone will finance the sequel, with Fall 2 set to begin shooting in June 2024.
Capstone Global is handling worldwide rights to the franchise. In late 2023, Capstone Studios greenlit both Fall 2 and Fall 3 under the franchise. Mann will return to write and direct the third installment.
“We’re extremely excited to helm the second...
Following the successful survival thriller Fall released in 2022 by Lionsgate, Fall 2 will reunite producers Mark Lane and James Harris of Tea Shop Productions (47 Meters Down), Capstone’s Christian Mercuri, David Haring, and Scott Mann via the Flawless banner.
Dan Asma, John Long, and Roman Viaris will also reunite as executive producers alongside Capstone’s Ruzanna Kegeyan. Capstone will finance the sequel, with Fall 2 set to begin shooting in June 2024.
Capstone Global is handling worldwide rights to the franchise. In late 2023, Capstone Studios greenlit both Fall 2 and Fall 3 under the franchise. Mann will return to write and direct the third installment.
“We’re extremely excited to helm the second...
- 5/16/2024
- by Mirko Parlevliet
- Vital Thrills
One Cannes ritual is IMAX CEO Rich Gelfond’s annual press lunch. IMAX is thriving in the global marketplace, with more than 1,700 screens in 90 countries, as audiences continue to recognize and embrace the global brand for giant film and digital cameras and big-screen formats. Helfand announced the company’s upcoming 2025 filmed for IMAX slate (below) while at Cannes, which he believes will break records for the company. Thanks to IMAX believer Chris Nolan‘s global blockbuster “Oppenheimer,” IMAX performed at peak capacity with over $1 billion in revenue in 2023, matching the company’s 2019 pre-pandemic record.
IMAX delivered 20% of the global box office for “Oppenheimer” — shot entirely with IMAX film cameras — and more than $190 million worldwide, making it the fifth highest grossing IMAX film of all time. IMAX also delivered 21% of the global box office for “Dune: Part Two” — shot entirely with IMAX-certified digital cameras — and over $145 million worldwide, making it the seventh highest.
IMAX delivered 20% of the global box office for “Oppenheimer” — shot entirely with IMAX film cameras — and more than $190 million worldwide, making it the fifth highest grossing IMAX film of all time. IMAX also delivered 21% of the global box office for “Dune: Part Two” — shot entirely with IMAX-certified digital cameras — and over $145 million worldwide, making it the seventh highest.
- 5/16/2024
- by Anne Thompson
- Indiewire
The main cast of Jim Jarmusch‘s first film since 2019’s “The Dead Don’t Die” has been revealed, and what a cast it is. Variety reports that Adam Driver, Mayim Bialik, Jarmusch regular Tom Waits, Charlotte Rampling, Indya Moore, and Luka Sabbat join Cate Blanchett and Vicky Krieps on “Father Mother Sister Brother.” Jarmusch has already wrapped shooting, with post-production underway in NYC, so expect the film to be ready for a premiere later this year.
Continue reading ‘Father Mother Sister Brother’: Jim Jarmusch’s Latest Star Cate Blanchett, Adam Driver, Tom Waits & More at The Playlist.
Continue reading ‘Father Mother Sister Brother’: Jim Jarmusch’s Latest Star Cate Blanchett, Adam Driver, Tom Waits & More at The Playlist.
- 5/16/2024
- by Ned Booth
- The Playlist
Dearest readers: It’s Bridgerton Week at IndieWire. We’re celebrating the new season by diving deep on one of the best romance shows on TV.
[Editor’s note: The following interview contains spoilers for “Bridgerton” Season 3 – Part 1″ including the ending.]
Oh, my God.
The “Bridgerton” team absolutely heard some fans’ complaints about the lack of steamy scenes in Season 2. This time around, there is no such issue.
“It’s all about character,” showrunner Jess Brownell told IndieWire. “In Season 2, we had a lot of discussions about how much intimacy we wanted to see. And it had everything to do with the fact that Anthony is a very rigid and duty-bound character. His arc is about that rigidity. And so him just willy nilly having intimacy before marriage with someone wouldn’t make any sense. Penelope and Colin are not nearly as rigid as Anthony. So it was much easier to show more intimacy this season, and it is definitely a very steamy season.
[Editor’s note: The following interview contains spoilers for “Bridgerton” Season 3 – Part 1″ including the ending.]
Oh, my God.
The “Bridgerton” team absolutely heard some fans’ complaints about the lack of steamy scenes in Season 2. This time around, there is no such issue.
“It’s all about character,” showrunner Jess Brownell told IndieWire. “In Season 2, we had a lot of discussions about how much intimacy we wanted to see. And it had everything to do with the fact that Anthony is a very rigid and duty-bound character. His arc is about that rigidity. And so him just willy nilly having intimacy before marriage with someone wouldn’t make any sense. Penelope and Colin are not nearly as rigid as Anthony. So it was much easier to show more intimacy this season, and it is definitely a very steamy season.
- 5/16/2024
- by Erin Strecker
- Indiewire
Netflix unveiled the trailer for “Ultraman: Rising” (premiering at Annecy June 12 and streaming June 14), the animated feature from first-time director Shannon Tindle, who re-imagines the legendary anime franchise from Tsuburaya Productions as an action-packed, heartwarming ode to parenthood.
With Tokyo under siege from rising kaiju attacks, Dodgers baseball superstar Ken Sato (Christopher Sean) reluctantly returns home to take on the mantle of rogue superhero Ultraman from his father (Gedde Watanabe) while signing with the Giants. But he has trouble balancing his passion for baseball and his family obligation to be Ultraman. Then, when forced to raise a 35-foot-tall, fire-breathing baby kaiju girl, Sato must confront his huge ego to protect her and Japan from destruction.
Tindle first conceived of his film as an original parental superhero story (“Made in Japan”). That was back in 2001 when he was a character designer on “Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends.” He later developed it...
With Tokyo under siege from rising kaiju attacks, Dodgers baseball superstar Ken Sato (Christopher Sean) reluctantly returns home to take on the mantle of rogue superhero Ultraman from his father (Gedde Watanabe) while signing with the Giants. But he has trouble balancing his passion for baseball and his family obligation to be Ultraman. Then, when forced to raise a 35-foot-tall, fire-breathing baby kaiju girl, Sato must confront his huge ego to protect her and Japan from destruction.
Tindle first conceived of his film as an original parental superhero story (“Made in Japan”). That was back in 2001 when he was a character designer on “Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends.” He later developed it...
- 5/16/2024
- by Bill Desowitz
- Indiewire
Buffalo 8 has acquired worldwide rights excluding Canada to A Hundred Lies, a Canadian music industry drama directed by Rouzbeh Heydari.
After a handful of theatrical screenings in Toronto and Los Angeles the film will launch on June 7 on Apple TV, Amazon, Google Play, Vudu, Hoopla and cable networks.
Written and produced by Dana Abraham and set in the Toronto music scene, the film tells the story of washed-up former star Ricky and runaway Fiona as they confront their demons in a business where the pursuit of success comes at a heavy price.
The cast include Abraham, Rob Raco, Humberly Gonzalez,...
After a handful of theatrical screenings in Toronto and Los Angeles the film will launch on June 7 on Apple TV, Amazon, Google Play, Vudu, Hoopla and cable networks.
Written and produced by Dana Abraham and set in the Toronto music scene, the film tells the story of washed-up former star Ricky and runaway Fiona as they confront their demons in a business where the pursuit of success comes at a heavy price.
The cast include Abraham, Rob Raco, Humberly Gonzalez,...
- 5/16/2024
- ScreenDaily
When we talk about perfect casting choices -- even outside the realm of superhero movies -- J.K. Simmons as The Daily Bugle head honcho J. Jonah Jameson in "Spider-Man" has to be right up there with the best of the best. Simmons so perfectly encapsulated the role that he has, essentially, been kept on as just about every version of the character throughout the Marvel multiverse, as evidenced by "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse." But before Simmons signed on for the role, he was seen as perfect for another, very different role in Spidey's rogues gallery.
In the most recent issue of Empire Magazine, the Oscar-winning actor reflected upon the early days of his time in the Marvel universe when he was only just hearing that Sam Raimi was going to direct "Spider-Man." At the time, he was shooting another Raimi film, "The Gift," and it was suggested...
In the most recent issue of Empire Magazine, the Oscar-winning actor reflected upon the early days of his time in the Marvel universe when he was only just hearing that Sam Raimi was going to direct "Spider-Man." At the time, he was shooting another Raimi film, "The Gift," and it was suggested...
- 5/16/2024
- by Ryan Scott
- Slash Film
Spoiler Alert: This story contains spoilers for Francis Ford Coppola’s “Megalopolis,” which premiered at Cannes Film Festival on May 16.
The wait is over: Francis Ford Coppola’s sci-fi drama “Megalopolis” has finally premiered at Cannes Film Festival, shocking and dividing critics.
The film, a $120 million epic starring Adam Driver, Aubrey Plaza, Giancarlo Esposito and Shia Labeouf, was financed by Coppola himself — and has yet to secure a distributor in the United States. Regardless, the movie earned a 7-minute standing ovation from Cannes, as Coppola hugged Driver and Esposito and delivered an emotional speech dedicating the film to hope and family.
Variety chief film critic Peter Debruge wrote in his review that the film “is positively awe-inspiring in some places and an absolute eyesore in others, until you pull back and try to take it all in.” Though reactions have been mixed, the film was undoubtedly jam-packed with scenes that...
The wait is over: Francis Ford Coppola’s sci-fi drama “Megalopolis” has finally premiered at Cannes Film Festival, shocking and dividing critics.
The film, a $120 million epic starring Adam Driver, Aubrey Plaza, Giancarlo Esposito and Shia Labeouf, was financed by Coppola himself — and has yet to secure a distributor in the United States. Regardless, the movie earned a 7-minute standing ovation from Cannes, as Coppola hugged Driver and Esposito and delivered an emotional speech dedicating the film to hope and family.
Variety chief film critic Peter Debruge wrote in his review that the film “is positively awe-inspiring in some places and an absolute eyesore in others, until you pull back and try to take it all in.” Though reactions have been mixed, the film was undoubtedly jam-packed with scenes that...
- 5/16/2024
- by Ellise Shafer and Matt Donnelly
- Variety - Film News
Children forced to grow up too fast understand the pained nature of powerlessness like few others. This is true of the pre-teen at the center of director Andre Arnold’s “Bird,” Bailey (Nykiya Adams). Born and bred in the small town of Gravesend, just 20 miles from the hustle and bustle of London, the 12-year-old lives in a heavily graffitied council block alongside her far too young father, tatted hopeful druglord Bug (Barry Keoghan) and older brother, Hunter (Jason Buda).
Continue reading ‘Bird’ Review: Franz Rogowski Shines In Arnold’s Beautiful Coming Of Age Tale [Cannes] at The Playlist.
Continue reading ‘Bird’ Review: Franz Rogowski Shines In Arnold’s Beautiful Coming Of Age Tale [Cannes] at The Playlist.
- 5/16/2024
- by Rafaela Sales Ross
- The Playlist
In Hollywood, director Fernando Meirelles is known for critically acclaimed films like “City of God” and “The Constant Gardner.” His TV work had been confined to Brazil, which, he discovered while shooting the Apple TV+ series “Sugar,” was nothing like American TV production.
“My first impression [was] the size, the scale of the whole thing, it’s a big circus,” Meirelles told IndieWire. “You’re tied into this big machine, and you’re piloting the machine, but the machine is also taking you. It’s an interesting experience, much different from what I was used to, but I really enjoyed it.”
Meirelles description makes it sound like he was an important cog in the big wheel of TV production, which, of course, is common for directors who enjoy more autonomy of smaller films. Except “Sugar” does not move, look, or feel like anything on American TV. The coverage and cutting patterns are anything but conventional.
“My first impression [was] the size, the scale of the whole thing, it’s a big circus,” Meirelles told IndieWire. “You’re tied into this big machine, and you’re piloting the machine, but the machine is also taking you. It’s an interesting experience, much different from what I was used to, but I really enjoyed it.”
Meirelles description makes it sound like he was an important cog in the big wheel of TV production, which, of course, is common for directors who enjoy more autonomy of smaller films. Except “Sugar” does not move, look, or feel like anything on American TV. The coverage and cutting patterns are anything but conventional.
- 5/16/2024
- by Chris O'Falt
- Indiewire
“Last year, as you know, we had a few polemics,” admitted Cannes General Delegate Thierry Fremaux at the opening of the 77th edition on Tuesday. “This year we decided to host a festival without polemics to make sure that the main interest for us all to be here is cinema.” With ignorance this willful, you have to laugh. Cannes has gotten so used to sweeping its problems under the rug that no one seems to know when, how, or if the Sous les Écrans la Dèche strike–-which would affect some 200 projectionists, programmers, floor managers, and press officers working the […]
The post Cannes 2024: The Second Act, An Unfinished Film and Wild Diamond first appeared on Filmmaker Magazine.
The post Cannes 2024: The Second Act, An Unfinished Film and Wild Diamond first appeared on Filmmaker Magazine.
- 5/16/2024
- by Blake Williams
- Filmmaker Magazine - Blog
Sharon Stone, Liam Neeson and more actors are coming to the defense of Kevin Spacey and calling for his return to the industry at large. Spacey has not worked in Hollywood since being accused by several men of sexual misconduct starting in 2017. The two-part documentary “Spacey Unmasked” recently aired in the U.K. and is now streaming on Max and features previously unheard of testimonies about Spacey’s alleged sexual misconduct, including a claim that he allegedly groped another “House of Cards” actor on set.
In statements given to The Telegraph, Stone and Neeson were joined by the likes of Stephen Fry and F Murray Abraham in their calls for Spacey’s return. Abraham himself was accused of sexual misconduct during the production of the Apple TV+ series “Mythic Quest,” which reportedly led to his firing.
“I can’t wait to see Kevin back at work. He is a genius.
In statements given to The Telegraph, Stone and Neeson were joined by the likes of Stephen Fry and F Murray Abraham in their calls for Spacey’s return. Abraham himself was accused of sexual misconduct during the production of the Apple TV+ series “Mythic Quest,” which reportedly led to his firing.
“I can’t wait to see Kevin back at work. He is a genius.
- 5/16/2024
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety - Film News
How often do you think about ancient Rome? If you're director Francis Ford Coppola, the answer is apparently "quite a lot." HIs latest film is "Megalopolis," a passion project that he had to finance himself in order to have full creative freedom, and it takes place in a crumbling city called New Rome, following an architect named Cesar (Adam Driver) as he seeks to build a more sustainable future. It's some wacky stuff, and Coppola has bought in completely.
The very first batch of reviews and reactions to "Megalopolis" are coming out of Cannes Film Festival in France, where the film made its world premiere. Given the movie's troubled production and absolutely wild teaser trailer, it should come as no surprise that the reviews are as intense as they are mixed, though most praise the unique sci-fi epic for its audacity and willingness to fully commit to its ideas and world.
The very first batch of reviews and reactions to "Megalopolis" are coming out of Cannes Film Festival in France, where the film made its world premiere. Given the movie's troubled production and absolutely wild teaser trailer, it should come as no surprise that the reviews are as intense as they are mixed, though most praise the unique sci-fi epic for its audacity and willingness to fully commit to its ideas and world.
- 5/16/2024
- by Danielle Ryan
- Slash Film
"Madame Web," released on Abraham Lincoln's birthday, frustrated audiences everywhere with its bizarre scripting, its lack of action, its weirdly unmotivated villain, and its staunch refusal to depict its lead characters actually turning into the superheroines they were destined to become. The title character was Cassandra Webb (Dakota Johnson) a New York paramedic in 2003 who discovers she has clairvoyant powers. She traces the origin of her powers back to her birth in the Amazon rainforests, where a rare, mystical spider bit her pregnant mother. Her powers also bring her inexplicably into the company of three New York teenagers who will all become Spider-Women someday -- but not in this film.
Chasing the quartet is Spider-Man (Tahar Rahim), or rather an evil precursor to Spider-Man who has the same super-strength, the same costume, the same wall-crawling powers, and who shares Madame Web's talent for clairvoyance. He has seen a...
Chasing the quartet is Spider-Man (Tahar Rahim), or rather an evil precursor to Spider-Man who has the same super-strength, the same costume, the same wall-crawling powers, and who shares Madame Web's talent for clairvoyance. He has seen a...
- 5/16/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Summer is coming, but streamers want you to bundle up.
It has long not been an original thought to say that streaming is starting to look more and more like cable, but the industry has been taking new steps to ensure the comparison doesn’t die. On Tuesday, Comcast chief Brian L. Roberts revealed a coming bundle between NBCUniversal’s Peacock, Apple’s Apple TV+, and Netflix’s, well, Netflix. We did not get a price point or a launch date, but we do have a name: StreamSaver. Roberts promised significant savings, hence the name.
If the StreamSaver announcement sounds familiar, it’s probably because that is the precise promise of an also newly announced Summer 2024 Disney bundle between Disney+, Hulu, and Max. Disney has long-experienced the strength of a bundle with two options for consumers to combine its in-house streaming services: the duo is Disney+ and Hulu, the trio adds ESPN+.
It has long not been an original thought to say that streaming is starting to look more and more like cable, but the industry has been taking new steps to ensure the comparison doesn’t die. On Tuesday, Comcast chief Brian L. Roberts revealed a coming bundle between NBCUniversal’s Peacock, Apple’s Apple TV+, and Netflix’s, well, Netflix. We did not get a price point or a launch date, but we do have a name: StreamSaver. Roberts promised significant savings, hence the name.
If the StreamSaver announcement sounds familiar, it’s probably because that is the precise promise of an also newly announced Summer 2024 Disney bundle between Disney+, Hulu, and Max. Disney has long-experienced the strength of a bundle with two options for consumers to combine its in-house streaming services: the duo is Disney+ and Hulu, the trio adds ESPN+.
- 5/16/2024
- by Tony Maglio
- Indiewire
The May 17 release of the 2024 Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue celebrates the swimsuit franchise’s 60th anniversary. A new documentary highlights the woman who founded the issue in 1964 – Jule Campbell.
Directed by Campbell’s daughter-in-law Jill Campbell, “Beyond the Gaze: Jule Campbell’s Swimsuit Issue” explores how the editor, who died in 2022, broke glass ceilings, navigated a sexist workplace and battled accusations of objectification, all while launching the careers of mogul models including Kathy Ireland, Christie Brinkley and Tyra Banks.
The 107 minute film, produced by Eue Documentaries and Red Barn Productions, recently wrapped production. The director is currently submitting the doc for consideration at various fall film festivals.
During her 32-year tenure as founding editor of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition, Campbell was charged with the task of creating a yearly swimsuit issue that did not come across as gratuitous. The docu investigates how she managed to control the photographs that...
Directed by Campbell’s daughter-in-law Jill Campbell, “Beyond the Gaze: Jule Campbell’s Swimsuit Issue” explores how the editor, who died in 2022, broke glass ceilings, navigated a sexist workplace and battled accusations of objectification, all while launching the careers of mogul models including Kathy Ireland, Christie Brinkley and Tyra Banks.
The 107 minute film, produced by Eue Documentaries and Red Barn Productions, recently wrapped production. The director is currently submitting the doc for consideration at various fall film festivals.
During her 32-year tenure as founding editor of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition, Campbell was charged with the task of creating a yearly swimsuit issue that did not come across as gratuitous. The docu investigates how she managed to control the photographs that...
- 5/16/2024
- by Addie Morfoot
- Variety - Film News
Lovo, a Berkeley-based AI startup, was accused in a class action lawsuit on Thursday of stealing actors’ voices to create Genny, a publicly accessible AI generator.
Paul Skye Lehrman and Linnea Sage, a New York couple who work as voice actors, alleged that they were deceived into providing voice samples through a freelance website. They were paid $1200 and $400, respectively, for reading scripts, and were told the recordings would be used internally, or for academic purposes.
Years later, they discovered that their voices had been cloned and were being used publicly without their permission or additional payment, the suit alleges. They are seeking to represent every actor whose voice was taken, and to stop Lovo from using those voices without consent and payment.
“You gotta get back control of their voices and their professional destiny,” said Steve Cohen, a partner at Pollock Cohen Llp, who filed the complaint. “There’s gotta...
Paul Skye Lehrman and Linnea Sage, a New York couple who work as voice actors, alleged that they were deceived into providing voice samples through a freelance website. They were paid $1200 and $400, respectively, for reading scripts, and were told the recordings would be used internally, or for academic purposes.
Years later, they discovered that their voices had been cloned and were being used publicly without their permission or additional payment, the suit alleges. They are seeking to represent every actor whose voice was taken, and to stop Lovo from using those voices without consent and payment.
“You gotta get back control of their voices and their professional destiny,” said Steve Cohen, a partner at Pollock Cohen Llp, who filed the complaint. “There’s gotta...
- 5/16/2024
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety - Film News
With a mission wholly unique at the time, make money while inspiring social change through entertainment, Participant Media managed to rewrite the rules of Hollywood during its all too short 20-year run. The studio singlehandedly proved to the world that you can produce unbelievably great films that have an impact, and audiences will go see them. Most studios and filmmakers working today owe a debt of gratitude to Jeff Skoll and his team of visionaries. That’s why the announcement that the studio will be shutting its doors felt like a gut punch, especially at a time when Hollywood is feeling a bit limp and lifeless.
Amidst the backdrop of faltering democracies, news and information channels that appear polarized, a marathon pandemic, and the proliferation of streaming, entertainment media still stands king as a unifier, capable of bringing together broad swathes of audiences. So, while Participant’s award-winning documentary “He...
Amidst the backdrop of faltering democracies, news and information channels that appear polarized, a marathon pandemic, and the proliferation of streaming, entertainment media still stands king as a unifier, capable of bringing together broad swathes of audiences. So, while Participant’s award-winning documentary “He...
- 5/16/2024
- by Scott Budnick
- Indiewire
When news first began circulating that distributors found Francis Ford Coppola’s long-awaited passion project “Megalopolis” tough to market, people were quick to shrug their shoulders in response. How could a film by the legendary “The Godfather” and “Apocalypse Now” director be hard to market? Well, those who shrugged their shoulders had not yet seen “Megalopolis.”
What is “Megalopolis”?
Continue reading ‘Megalopolis’ Review: Francis Ford Coppola’s Epic Is A Madman’s Fever Dream [Cannes] at The Playlist.
What is “Megalopolis”?
Continue reading ‘Megalopolis’ Review: Francis Ford Coppola’s Epic Is A Madman’s Fever Dream [Cannes] at The Playlist.
- 5/16/2024
- by Rafaela Sales Ross
- The Playlist
The only constant in life is change, folks. The best-laid plans end up having to be adjusted, external factors force even the wisest decision-makers to improvise on the fly, and, all the while, the ruthless film gods laugh at us from their ivory towers in the sky. Is this lede a tad melodramatic for what's nothing more than just another article about movie release dates jumping around? Probably, but we have to make sure you're all paying attention somehow!
Variety reports that Universal Pictures and Blumhouse Productions woke up today and apparently chose chaos, as the studios took a look at their big-screen horror offerings to come over the next year and change and shook things up significantly. While the new calendar shift affects quite a few titles, the three main ones that fans will undoubtedly want to keep an eye on include "Five Nights at Freddy's 2," "M3GAN 2.0," and "The Black Phone 2.
Variety reports that Universal Pictures and Blumhouse Productions woke up today and apparently chose chaos, as the studios took a look at their big-screen horror offerings to come over the next year and change and shook things up significantly. While the new calendar shift affects quite a few titles, the three main ones that fans will undoubtedly want to keep an eye on include "Five Nights at Freddy's 2," "M3GAN 2.0," and "The Black Phone 2.
- 5/16/2024
- by Jeremy Mathai
- Slash Film
In 2014, Naomi Watts voiced an animated version of herself in the “BoJack Horseman” episode “One Trick Pony.” The Watts in Hollywoo — the “BoJack” stand-in for the entertainment industry’s epicenter, inhabited mostly by anthropomorphic animals — is starring opposite BoJack in a biopic about his frenemy, Mr. Peanutbutter. She appears on set preparing to play Diane, a burgeoning writer. The meta joke is the actress accepted the part to get a break from emotionally draining, praiseworthy performances.
“I just keep getting pigeonholed as these complex characters in highly acclaimed movies,” the animated Watts bemoans to a character who is a parody of host Ryan Seacrest (A Ryan Seacrest Type). “For once, I would just love to phone it in and play a two-dimensional girl in a rom-com with no inner life of her own. That’s kind of the reason I got into this business.”
Ten years later, that tongue-in-cheek guest appearance now feels almost prophetic.
“I just keep getting pigeonholed as these complex characters in highly acclaimed movies,” the animated Watts bemoans to a character who is a parody of host Ryan Seacrest (A Ryan Seacrest Type). “For once, I would just love to phone it in and play a two-dimensional girl in a rom-com with no inner life of her own. That’s kind of the reason I got into this business.”
Ten years later, that tongue-in-cheek guest appearance now feels almost prophetic.
- 5/16/2024
- by Carlos Aguilar
- Indiewire
Is Francis Ford Coppola’s controversial magnum opus “Megalopolis” any good?
The two hour and 20 minute dystopian drama certainly divided the audience at the Cannes Film Festival on Thursday night with its collision course of shocking scenes: a doctored sex tape featuring Adam Driver, Shia Labeouf in drag playing a Trumpian figure and Aubrey Plaza dominating her way through a slew of men.
But there was still a huge amount of respect for iconic director Coppola, who received a four-minute standing ovation upon entering the room. After the credits rolled — which included a tribute to his late wife Eleanor — and the standing ovation began, Coppola hugged Driver and Giancarlo Esposito and got emotional as he made a speech dedicating the film to hope and family.
“Thank you all so much. It is so impossible to find words to tell you how I feel,” Coppola said, then introducing his family members in the audience.
The two hour and 20 minute dystopian drama certainly divided the audience at the Cannes Film Festival on Thursday night with its collision course of shocking scenes: a doctored sex tape featuring Adam Driver, Shia Labeouf in drag playing a Trumpian figure and Aubrey Plaza dominating her way through a slew of men.
But there was still a huge amount of respect for iconic director Coppola, who received a four-minute standing ovation upon entering the room. After the credits rolled — which included a tribute to his late wife Eleanor — and the standing ovation began, Coppola hugged Driver and Giancarlo Esposito and got emotional as he made a speech dedicating the film to hope and family.
“Thank you all so much. It is so impossible to find words to tell you how I feel,” Coppola said, then introducing his family members in the audience.
- 5/16/2024
- by Ellise Shafer
- Variety - Film News
Francis Ford Coppola’s “Megalopolis” just may have broken the internet — and the brains of more than a few critics at Cannes.
Upon the film’s world premiere, fans and critics alike took to social media to capture the “insanity” of Coppola’s latest feature, which has been described by the auteur as a “Roman epic.” Count IndieWire’s David Ehrlich as a fan: In his review, he said that “Coppola’s wild and delirious fever dream inspires new hope for the future of movies.” The film debuted in competition at the Cannes Film Festival and is still looking for distribution, but will definitely get an IMAX release regardless.
Adam Driver leads the feature as a pseudo alter ego of writer/director Coppola, with the Oscar-nominated actor playing an architect who envisions saving his corrupt city and transforming the metropolis into a utopia. Meanwhile, the city’s mayor (Giancarlo Esposito) clashes with Driver’s character,...
Upon the film’s world premiere, fans and critics alike took to social media to capture the “insanity” of Coppola’s latest feature, which has been described by the auteur as a “Roman epic.” Count IndieWire’s David Ehrlich as a fan: In his review, he said that “Coppola’s wild and delirious fever dream inspires new hope for the future of movies.” The film debuted in competition at the Cannes Film Festival and is still looking for distribution, but will definitely get an IMAX release regardless.
Adam Driver leads the feature as a pseudo alter ego of writer/director Coppola, with the Oscar-nominated actor playing an architect who envisions saving his corrupt city and transforming the metropolis into a utopia. Meanwhile, the city’s mayor (Giancarlo Esposito) clashes with Driver’s character,...
- 5/16/2024
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Don’t go looking to the “Bad Boys: Ride Or Die” synopsis to tell you much about the movie; it’s vague as hell. However, the new trailer for the film, just released today, peels back the layers of the action franchise’s latest installment. And the latest poster tagline sums it all up: Miami’s finest is now Miami’s most wanted.
Read More: Summer Movie Preview: 50 Must-See Films To Watch
Will Smith and Martin Lawrence reunite for “Bad Boys: Ride Or Die,” and in the fourth edition of the series, the Miami police detectives have been framed for the murder of their police chief, Captain Conrad Howard (Joe Pantoliano).
Continue reading ‘Bad Boys: Ride Or Die’ Trailer: Will Smith and Martin Lawrence Turn Into Miami’s Most Wanted In July at The Playlist.
Read More: Summer Movie Preview: 50 Must-See Films To Watch
Will Smith and Martin Lawrence reunite for “Bad Boys: Ride Or Die,” and in the fourth edition of the series, the Miami police detectives have been framed for the murder of their police chief, Captain Conrad Howard (Joe Pantoliano).
Continue reading ‘Bad Boys: Ride Or Die’ Trailer: Will Smith and Martin Lawrence Turn Into Miami’s Most Wanted In July at The Playlist.
- 5/16/2024
- by Edward Davis
- The Playlist
Cannes film festival
Francis Ford Coppola’s question – can the US empire last forever? – may be valid but flashes of humour cannot rescue this conspiracy thriller from awful acting and dull effects
Everyone who loves cinema owes Francis Ford Coppola a very great deal … including honesty. His ambitious and earnestly intended new film, resoundingly dedicated to his late wife Eleanor, has some flashes of humour and verve. Jon Voight’s scene with his bow-and-arrow shoots a witty dart. The film’s heavily furnished art deco theatricality sometimes creates an interestingly self-aware spectacle, like an old-fashioned modern dress production of Shakespeare. And certainly a Coppola failure is a whole lot more interesting than the functional successes of lesser directors – the middleweights who aim low and just about hit the target’s bottom rim.
But for me this is a passion project without passion: a bloated, boring and bafflingly shallow film, full...
Francis Ford Coppola’s question – can the US empire last forever? – may be valid but flashes of humour cannot rescue this conspiracy thriller from awful acting and dull effects
Everyone who loves cinema owes Francis Ford Coppola a very great deal … including honesty. His ambitious and earnestly intended new film, resoundingly dedicated to his late wife Eleanor, has some flashes of humour and verve. Jon Voight’s scene with his bow-and-arrow shoots a witty dart. The film’s heavily furnished art deco theatricality sometimes creates an interestingly self-aware spectacle, like an old-fashioned modern dress production of Shakespeare. And certainly a Coppola failure is a whole lot more interesting than the functional successes of lesser directors – the middleweights who aim low and just about hit the target’s bottom rim.
But for me this is a passion project without passion: a bloated, boring and bafflingly shallow film, full...
- 5/16/2024
- by Peter Bradshaw in Cannes
- The Guardian - Film News
In the long-gestating, career-encompassing allegory that is “Megalopolis,” director Francis Ford Coppola puts his name above the title and, in the film’s lone act of modesty, the words “A Fable” beneath it. To call this garish, idea-bloated monstrosity a mere “fable” is to grossly undersell the project’s expansive insights into art, life and legacy. Here, backed by an estimated $120 million of the “Godfather” director’s own money, is the sort of big swing audiences and critics have come to adore him for: a recklessly ambitious, ginormous epic in which humanity’s eternal themes — greed, corruption, loyalty and power — threaten to suffocate a more intimate personal crisis. In this case, a conservative politician and a forward-thinking urban designer clash over the future of a city’s future.
It’s Coppola’s fortune, and he can spend it as he likes, but grandiose title aside, it’s not at all...
It’s Coppola’s fortune, and he can spend it as he likes, but grandiose title aside, it’s not at all...
- 5/16/2024
- by Peter Debruge
- Variety - Film News
As personal and egoless as you could ever hope to expect from an $120 million self-portrait that doubles as a fable about the fall of Ancient Rome, Francis Ford Coppola’s “Megalopolis” is the story of an ingenious eccentric who dares to stake his fortune on a more optimistic vision for the future — not because he thinks he can single-handedly bring that vision to bear, but rather because history has taught him that questioning a civilization’s present condition is the only reliable hope for preventing its ruin. Needless to say, the movie isn’t arriving a minute too soon.
After more than 40 years of idly fantasizing about the project (and more than 20 years of actively trying to finance it), Coppola is bringing “Megalopolis” to screens at a moment when his chosen medium is struggling to find a way forward, and the world around it seems teetering on the brink of collapse.
After more than 40 years of idly fantasizing about the project (and more than 20 years of actively trying to finance it), Coppola is bringing “Megalopolis” to screens at a moment when his chosen medium is struggling to find a way forward, and the world around it seems teetering on the brink of collapse.
- 5/16/2024
- by David Ehrlich
- Indiewire
More “Shōgun” is in the works.
The hit FX for Hulu series is in development in two more seasons; “Shōgun” was originally announced as a limited series.
Co-creators, executive producers, and writers Justin Marks and Rachel Kondo would return for Seasons 2 and 3, which FX says are now “likely” to happen, along with executive producer Michaela Clavell and series star and producer Hiroyuki Sanada. Production has not been set as the additional seasons have not yet been ordered — but a writers’ room is being assembled and will begin in the summer. The estate of novelist James Clavell, whose work the series is based on, has also approved the additional seasons.
So, about that whole “limited” thing… IndieWire can confirm the series is being entered as a Drama series at this year’s Emmys, not in the Limited Series category.
“Shōgun” has become FX’s most-watched show ever in its first nine...
The hit FX for Hulu series is in development in two more seasons; “Shōgun” was originally announced as a limited series.
Co-creators, executive producers, and writers Justin Marks and Rachel Kondo would return for Seasons 2 and 3, which FX says are now “likely” to happen, along with executive producer Michaela Clavell and series star and producer Hiroyuki Sanada. Production has not been set as the additional seasons have not yet been ordered — but a writers’ room is being assembled and will begin in the summer. The estate of novelist James Clavell, whose work the series is based on, has also approved the additional seasons.
So, about that whole “limited” thing… IndieWire can confirm the series is being entered as a Drama series at this year’s Emmys, not in the Limited Series category.
“Shōgun” has become FX’s most-watched show ever in its first nine...
- 5/16/2024
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
French director Alexandre Aja has been in the horror game for a long time; over two decades, in fact. His 2003 breakout “High Tension” cemented him as an up-and-comer in the genre, and after moving stateside to work in Hollywood, he furthered his career with remakes like “The Hills Have Eyes” and “Piranha.” But Aja hasn’t had a real hit since 2019’s “Crawl,” a taut survivalist thriller B-movie that revived the director’s career.
Continue reading ‘Never Let Go’ Trailer: Halle Berry Stars In Alexandre Aja’s Latest Horror Thriller This September at The Playlist.
Continue reading ‘Never Let Go’ Trailer: Halle Berry Stars In Alexandre Aja’s Latest Horror Thriller This September at The Playlist.
- 5/16/2024
- by Ned Booth
- The Playlist
Freddy Fazbear will return to haunt multiplexes in 2025.
Universal and Blumhouse’s “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2,” a horror sequel set in the haunted Chuck E. Cheese-esque establishment known as Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza, will land in theaters on Dec. 5, 2025.
Universal added several Blumhouse titles to its release calendar, including “The Woman in the Yard” and “Drop”. The studio also shifted the dates for two other buzzy sequels: “M3GAN 2.0” from May 16, 2025, to June 27, 2025; and “The Black Phone 2” from June 27, 2025, to Oct. 17, 2025.
“Five Nights at Freddy’s,” adapted from the popular video game, made a killing at the box office last October with $297 million globally and became Blumhouse’s highest-grossing film of all time — all while streaming simultaneously on Peacock. Josh Hutcherson starred in the original as a nighttime security guard at Freddys Fazbear’s Pizza, where the animatronic mascots are prone to murder. The studio hasn’t clarified who is returning for the follow-up,...
Universal and Blumhouse’s “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2,” a horror sequel set in the haunted Chuck E. Cheese-esque establishment known as Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza, will land in theaters on Dec. 5, 2025.
Universal added several Blumhouse titles to its release calendar, including “The Woman in the Yard” and “Drop”. The studio also shifted the dates for two other buzzy sequels: “M3GAN 2.0” from May 16, 2025, to June 27, 2025; and “The Black Phone 2” from June 27, 2025, to Oct. 17, 2025.
“Five Nights at Freddy’s,” adapted from the popular video game, made a killing at the box office last October with $297 million globally and became Blumhouse’s highest-grossing film of all time — all while streaming simultaneously on Peacock. Josh Hutcherson starred in the original as a nighttime security guard at Freddys Fazbear’s Pizza, where the animatronic mascots are prone to murder. The studio hasn’t clarified who is returning for the follow-up,...
- 5/16/2024
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety - Film News
Tony McFarr, who was Chris Pratt’s stunt double in “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” and two of the “Jurassic World” movies, died on Monday. He was 47.
McFarr’s mother told TMZ that he died at his home outside of Orlando, Fla. No cause of death has been given. His death was reported on the website of the Wylie-Baxley Funeral Home in Merritt Island, Fla.
The stuntman performed in dozens of movies and shows, dating back to the early 2010s. He first doubled for Pratt on the 2015 film “Jurassic World” and followed that up with 2017’s “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” and 2018’s “Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom.” He also performed Pratt’s stunts in the 2016 drama “Passengers.”
McFarr’s other stunt credits included a range of blockbusters and Marvel movies like “Captain America: Civil War,” “Ant-Man and the Wasp,” “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Parts 1 and 2,” “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes,...
McFarr’s mother told TMZ that he died at his home outside of Orlando, Fla. No cause of death has been given. His death was reported on the website of the Wylie-Baxley Funeral Home in Merritt Island, Fla.
The stuntman performed in dozens of movies and shows, dating back to the early 2010s. He first doubled for Pratt on the 2015 film “Jurassic World” and followed that up with 2017’s “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” and 2018’s “Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom.” He also performed Pratt’s stunts in the 2016 drama “Passengers.”
McFarr’s other stunt credits included a range of blockbusters and Marvel movies like “Captain America: Civil War,” “Ant-Man and the Wasp,” “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Parts 1 and 2,” “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes,...
- 5/16/2024
- by Jordan Moreau
- Variety - Film News
IndieWire, the definitive outlet for creative independence in film and TV, announced on Thursday, May 16 a new edition of its IndieWire Honors event focused entirely on television. Curated and selected by IndieWire’s editorial team, IndieWire Honors is a celebration of the creators and stars responsible for some of the most stellar work of the TV season.
Hosted by “Just for Us” comedian Alex Edelman, the latest edition of the event will be celebrated at an intimate cocktail reception taking place Thursday, June 6 in Los Angeles. Exclusive editorial content, including honoree profiles, will also be featured on IndieWire beginning May 29 and will continue throughout the lead-up to the awards night, followed up video interviews and more content from the event. Other honorees are to be announced in the coming days.
“This will be another extraordinary IndieWire Honors, the awards evening that isn’t like any other,” said Dana Harris-Bridson, IndieWire...
Hosted by “Just for Us” comedian Alex Edelman, the latest edition of the event will be celebrated at an intimate cocktail reception taking place Thursday, June 6 in Los Angeles. Exclusive editorial content, including honoree profiles, will also be featured on IndieWire beginning May 29 and will continue throughout the lead-up to the awards night, followed up video interviews and more content from the event. Other honorees are to be announced in the coming days.
“This will be another extraordinary IndieWire Honors, the awards evening that isn’t like any other,” said Dana Harris-Bridson, IndieWire...
- 5/16/2024
- by IndieWire Staff
- Indiewire
After “Nitram” wowed critics at the Cannes Film Festival three years ago, with Caleb Landry Jones winning Best Actor for his role, many expected Justin Kurzel‘s would return to the Croisette with his next film, “The Order.” But Deadline reports that Kurzel’s upcoming true crime movie won’t hit the festival circuit yet, if it even is at all.
Continue reading ‘The Order’ First Look: Jude Law, Nicholas Hoult & Tye Sheridan Star In Justin Kurzel’s Upcoming True Crime Thriller at The Playlist.
Continue reading ‘The Order’ First Look: Jude Law, Nicholas Hoult & Tye Sheridan Star In Justin Kurzel’s Upcoming True Crime Thriller at The Playlist.
- 5/16/2024
- by Ned Booth
- The Playlist
Few companies in the world have had such as impact on their local film industry than Globo Filmes, the feature co-production arm of Brazilian giant Globo, which is Latin America’s biggest communications conglomerate. Over the last 25 years, Globo Filmes has backed more than 500 movies, almost all through co-production.
Those films have collectively sold 260 million cinema theater admissions, an average of over 10 million admissions a year, accounting for more than 70% of Brazilian market share from 1998-2024.
Globo Filmes greenlights more than 20 movies a year, powering up by far the biggest production slate of any company in Brazil, thanks to article 3A of the country’s audiovisual law, which allows it to tap tax incentives for investing in feature films.
Launching in 1998, Globo Filmes helped accelerate the Brazilian film industry’s recovery after President Fernando Collor de Mello shuttered state film agency Embrafilme in 1990, paralyzing production. Twenty-five years later, after a...
Those films have collectively sold 260 million cinema theater admissions, an average of over 10 million admissions a year, accounting for more than 70% of Brazilian market share from 1998-2024.
Globo Filmes greenlights more than 20 movies a year, powering up by far the biggest production slate of any company in Brazil, thanks to article 3A of the country’s audiovisual law, which allows it to tap tax incentives for investing in feature films.
Launching in 1998, Globo Filmes helped accelerate the Brazilian film industry’s recovery after President Fernando Collor de Mello shuttered state film agency Embrafilme in 1990, paralyzing production. Twenty-five years later, after a...
- 5/16/2024
- by John Hopewell
- Variety - Film News
A key driver in Brazil’s late 1990s cinema resurgence, Globo Filmes has co-produced iconic box office blockbusters, Oscar and “A” Fest plays, arthouse breakouts. movies sparking big TV spin-offs. A brief selection of milestones in its storied history:
1990
President Fernando Collar’s government closes state owned film company Embrafilme, decimating Brazilian film production.
1993
A new Audiovisual Law offers companies income tax deductions for investment in Brazilian movies as Brazil’s Resurgence – economic and cultural recovery – lifts off.
1997
Globo Filmes is founded. Recalls Daniel Filho, its guiding spirit, in early years: “I started working in Globo TV but I always said: “I want to make cinema.’ I was on my way to close a deal with exhibitor Luis Severiano Ribeiro to launch a film production house when I got a call from Globo to launch Globo Filmes. I agreed: Globo had to do what French and British channels were doing: Participate in films.
1990
President Fernando Collar’s government closes state owned film company Embrafilme, decimating Brazilian film production.
1993
A new Audiovisual Law offers companies income tax deductions for investment in Brazilian movies as Brazil’s Resurgence – economic and cultural recovery – lifts off.
1997
Globo Filmes is founded. Recalls Daniel Filho, its guiding spirit, in early years: “I started working in Globo TV but I always said: “I want to make cinema.’ I was on my way to close a deal with exhibitor Luis Severiano Ribeiro to launch a film production house when I got a call from Globo to launch Globo Filmes. I agreed: Globo had to do what French and British channels were doing: Participate in films.
- 5/16/2024
- by John Hopewell
- Variety - Film News
“Queer Planet” is more than just gay penguins or bisexual lions, as the aptly-titled LGBTQ+ Peacock feature documentary trailer states.
The upcoming film is narrated by “Girls5eva” actor Andrew Rannells and is billed as a “first-of-its-kind nature documentary” that focuses solely on the queer creatures in the animal kingdom.
“We’ve all heard of gay penguins, but this film really opened my eyes to the full spectrum of LGBTQ+ behaviors across the natural world,” Rannells said in a press statement. “And what could be more natural than being who you are? I’m excited to be part of ‘Queer Planet,’ especially during Pride Month, and on Peacock, surely the most colorful and glamorous of all the streaming services.”
“Queer Planet” focuses on hidden LGBTQ+ communities among animals that have unconventional sexualities and genders. The film features scientists and experts such as author and naturalist Bradley Trevor Greive, ornithologist Dr. Martin Stervander,...
The upcoming film is narrated by “Girls5eva” actor Andrew Rannells and is billed as a “first-of-its-kind nature documentary” that focuses solely on the queer creatures in the animal kingdom.
“We’ve all heard of gay penguins, but this film really opened my eyes to the full spectrum of LGBTQ+ behaviors across the natural world,” Rannells said in a press statement. “And what could be more natural than being who you are? I’m excited to be part of ‘Queer Planet,’ especially during Pride Month, and on Peacock, surely the most colorful and glamorous of all the streaming services.”
“Queer Planet” focuses on hidden LGBTQ+ communities among animals that have unconventional sexualities and genders. The film features scientists and experts such as author and naturalist Bradley Trevor Greive, ornithologist Dr. Martin Stervander,...
- 5/16/2024
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Dearest readers: It’s Bridgerton Week at IndieWire. We’re celebrating the new season by diving deep on one of the best romance shows on TV.
A few days before “Bridgerton” Season 3 premieres worldwide, an eager fan muscled her way through the small crowd hovering around star Nicola Coughlan at the world premiere in New York City.
That fan would be this author’s mother, delighted to see her favorite character from one of her favorite shows (and she said as much in the moment). When Coughlan arrived at the IndieWire offices a couple days later, I expected the confident, funny, and affable actor now in month four of an international press tour — but I had also already witnessed her attentiveness and compassion firsthand in the best way.
“I believe strongly that everyone needs to do a year in retail,” Coughlan said as we discussed her journey to “Bridgerton.” “That...
A few days before “Bridgerton” Season 3 premieres worldwide, an eager fan muscled her way through the small crowd hovering around star Nicola Coughlan at the world premiere in New York City.
That fan would be this author’s mother, delighted to see her favorite character from one of her favorite shows (and she said as much in the moment). When Coughlan arrived at the IndieWire offices a couple days later, I expected the confident, funny, and affable actor now in month four of an international press tour — but I had also already witnessed her attentiveness and compassion firsthand in the best way.
“I believe strongly that everyone needs to do a year in retail,” Coughlan said as we discussed her journey to “Bridgerton.” “That...
- 5/16/2024
- by Proma Khosla
- Indiewire
Glen Powell, Bad Robot and Imax have released a theatrical trailer in support of The Blue Angels Foundation, a non-profit created by former Blue Angels pilots that funds critical services for wounded veterans and their families. The trailer will run nationwide in anticipation of the Imax original documentary “The Blue Angels,” which starts its Imax exclusive run May 17.
Opening with an introduction from Powell, the trailer goes inside the Warrior Foundation Freedom Station 1 in San Diego, Calif., a housing and support facility for those receiving care from The Blue Angels Foundation. Founded in 2004, Freedom Station 1 provides transitional care, post-traumatic stress treatment and suicide prevention to help wounded veterans reenter the civilian community.
“We’re honored that our foundation will be featured in the upcoming Imax documentary, ‘The Blue Angels,’ showcasing our tireless efforts to serve wounded veterans and their families,” said Scott Kartvedt, president of The Blue Angels Foundation. “This...
Opening with an introduction from Powell, the trailer goes inside the Warrior Foundation Freedom Station 1 in San Diego, Calif., a housing and support facility for those receiving care from The Blue Angels Foundation. Founded in 2004, Freedom Station 1 provides transitional care, post-traumatic stress treatment and suicide prevention to help wounded veterans reenter the civilian community.
“We’re honored that our foundation will be featured in the upcoming Imax documentary, ‘The Blue Angels,’ showcasing our tireless efforts to serve wounded veterans and their families,” said Scott Kartvedt, president of The Blue Angels Foundation. “This...
- 5/16/2024
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety - Film News
The rise and fall of theater subscription service MoviePass is captured in new HBO documentary “MoviePass, MovieCrash.”
Dubbed “the Netflix of the movie theater” in the trailer, MoviePass was founded by Stacy Spikes and Hamet Watt in 2011 before former CEOs Mitch Lowe and Ted Farnsworth allegedly utilized fraudulent business tactics; the duo were charged by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in a 2022 lawsuit. The lawsuit additionally named ex-MoviePass Vice President Khalid Itum as a defendant, with Itum being accused of submitting false invoices for the company.
MoviePass filed for bankruptcy in 2020 after launching a $9.99 per month subscription in 2017 allowing people to see a movie a day. Upon moving to the $9.99 one movie per day model, subscriptions went from 20,000 to 100,000 users within two days, ultimately capping at more than 3 million subscribers in 2018. Yet the company still lost more than $150 million in 2017 alone. MoviePass filed for bankruptcy in 2019.
The company later...
Dubbed “the Netflix of the movie theater” in the trailer, MoviePass was founded by Stacy Spikes and Hamet Watt in 2011 before former CEOs Mitch Lowe and Ted Farnsworth allegedly utilized fraudulent business tactics; the duo were charged by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in a 2022 lawsuit. The lawsuit additionally named ex-MoviePass Vice President Khalid Itum as a defendant, with Itum being accused of submitting false invoices for the company.
MoviePass filed for bankruptcy in 2020 after launching a $9.99 per month subscription in 2017 allowing people to see a movie a day. Upon moving to the $9.99 one movie per day model, subscriptions went from 20,000 to 100,000 users within two days, ultimately capping at more than 3 million subscribers in 2018. Yet the company still lost more than $150 million in 2017 alone. MoviePass filed for bankruptcy in 2019.
The company later...
- 5/16/2024
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Morgana Studios, ReachStar and ReDefine Originals are partnering on the animated feature “Diamante,” set on the lush Caribbean Island of the Dominican Republic.
The film will be directed by Mathieu Ratthé with the screenplay written by Ratthé and Leticia Tonos Paniagua from an original idea by Claudio Lluberes.
Animation will be handled by ReDefine Originals, which is part of Dneg. The producers are casting.
“Diamante” follows young Luisito’s dream of becoming a pro baseball player. He is crushed by his fear of people until he discovers a mysterious power, leading him on a journey alongside an unlikely companion, to learn the true value of friendship, family, and resilience.
Producing are Ratthé, Caroline Desmarais and Steven Thibault for Reachstar, and Miguel Cabañas, Verónica Buide, Claudio Lluberes and Daysi Cruz for Morgana Studios. Executive producing for ReDefine Originals are Greg Gavanski, John Harvey and Daniel Krech.
“‘Diamante’ aims to highlight the...
The film will be directed by Mathieu Ratthé with the screenplay written by Ratthé and Leticia Tonos Paniagua from an original idea by Claudio Lluberes.
Animation will be handled by ReDefine Originals, which is part of Dneg. The producers are casting.
“Diamante” follows young Luisito’s dream of becoming a pro baseball player. He is crushed by his fear of people until he discovers a mysterious power, leading him on a journey alongside an unlikely companion, to learn the true value of friendship, family, and resilience.
Producing are Ratthé, Caroline Desmarais and Steven Thibault for Reachstar, and Miguel Cabañas, Verónica Buide, Claudio Lluberes and Daysi Cruz for Morgana Studios. Executive producing for ReDefine Originals are Greg Gavanski, John Harvey and Daniel Krech.
“‘Diamante’ aims to highlight the...
- 5/16/2024
- by Leo Barraclough
- Variety - Film News
Glen Powell remained the king of grassroots publicity at an Austin, Texas, screening of his new Netflix movie, Richard Linklater’s “Hit Man.” The leading man hit the red carpet at the event accompanied by his family, but his mother and father decided to troll their son with signs directed at the press line that read: “Stop trying to make Glen Powell happen” and “It’s never gonna happen.”
It appears Powell’s parents have been paying attention to all the press attention their son has been getting over the last few years. Every time Powell appears in a movie, be it Netflix’s “Set It Up” or Tom Cruise’s blockbuster “Top: Gun Maverick” or Sony’s rom-com “Anyone But You” with Sydney Sweeney, the press can’t help but say he’s got bona fide star power and is the next big thing. The “Hit Man” reviews also...
It appears Powell’s parents have been paying attention to all the press attention their son has been getting over the last few years. Every time Powell appears in a movie, be it Netflix’s “Set It Up” or Tom Cruise’s blockbuster “Top: Gun Maverick” or Sony’s rom-com “Anyone But You” with Sydney Sweeney, the press can’t help but say he’s got bona fide star power and is the next big thing. The “Hit Man” reviews also...
- 5/16/2024
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety - Film News
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