Exclusive: Christopher Eccleston (The Leftovers) has signed on to star alongside Daisy Ridley, Tilda Cobham-Hervey and Stephen Graham in Disney+’s upcoming film Young Woman and the Sea, from Kon-Tiki director Joachim Rønning, which is currently in production.
The film based on the book by Glenn Stout chronicles the daring journey of Gertrude “Trudy” Ederle (Ridley), who in 1926 became the first woman ever to swim across the English Channel. The daughter of a German butcher from Manhattan, Ederle was a competitive swimmer who won gold in the 1924 Olympics. She attempted to cross The Channel after first swimming 22 miles from Battery Park in New York to Sandy Hook, NJ, setting a record that stood for 81 years.
Jeff Nathanson adapted the screenplay for the drama, which Jerry Bruckheimer and Chad Oman are producing.
Eccleston is a BAFTA Award nominee who has previously been seen in films including Legend, Dead in a Week Or Your Money Back,...
The film based on the book by Glenn Stout chronicles the daring journey of Gertrude “Trudy” Ederle (Ridley), who in 1926 became the first woman ever to swim across the English Channel. The daughter of a German butcher from Manhattan, Ederle was a competitive swimmer who won gold in the 1924 Olympics. She attempted to cross The Channel after first swimming 22 miles from Battery Park in New York to Sandy Hook, NJ, setting a record that stood for 81 years.
Jeff Nathanson adapted the screenplay for the drama, which Jerry Bruckheimer and Chad Oman are producing.
Eccleston is a BAFTA Award nominee who has previously been seen in films including Legend, Dead in a Week Or Your Money Back,...
- 5/4/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: A key character will be returning to Amazon Prime Video’s Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan. Abbie Cornish, who portrayed Cathy Mueller in Season 1, will be back to reprise the role in the recently announced fourth season.
There has been a lingering mystery surrounding Cathy Mueller, Ryan’s love interest in the first season, as well as in the books. The character was never written out of the show, she just disappeared. There was not a single reference of her throughout Season 2, and the only clue given was Ryan (John Krasinski) sleeping with another woman early on in the season, and then later on saying he’s single.
There is no information how Cathy will be reintroduced on the show. Her return could be set up in the upcoming third season, production on which recently wrapped with a premiere date still Tbd.
Season 3 finds Jack Ryan (Krasinski) on the...
There has been a lingering mystery surrounding Cathy Mueller, Ryan’s love interest in the first season, as well as in the books. The character was never written out of the show, she just disappeared. There was not a single reference of her throughout Season 2, and the only clue given was Ryan (John Krasinski) sleeping with another woman early on in the season, and then later on saying he’s single.
There is no information how Cathy will be reintroduced on the show. Her return could be set up in the upcoming third season, production on which recently wrapped with a premiere date still Tbd.
Season 3 finds Jack Ryan (Krasinski) on the...
- 10/18/2021
- by Nellie Andreeva and Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Disgraced “After Life” producer Charlie Hanson has severed his last ties with ex-wife Amma Asante (“Belle”) after resigning from her production company Awol Films.
Hanson, who was removed as a producer from the hit Ricky Gervais show by Netflix after being accused of historic sexual assaults in May, has been a part of the company since its incorporation in 2002.
He and Asante divorced in 2007.
In June, The Times of London reported that 11 women had complained about Hanson’s conduct. An anonymous email detailing the allegations against him was sent to Netflix, which quickly moved to remove the producer from the third season of the show, which was then in production.
Hanson denied the allegations at the time, with his lawyers telling Variety: “He maintains that he has never acted inappropriately on any production, or at all, and has never had any complaints made about his conduct over the course of...
Hanson, who was removed as a producer from the hit Ricky Gervais show by Netflix after being accused of historic sexual assaults in May, has been a part of the company since its incorporation in 2002.
He and Asante divorced in 2007.
In June, The Times of London reported that 11 women had complained about Hanson’s conduct. An anonymous email detailing the allegations against him was sent to Netflix, which quickly moved to remove the producer from the third season of the show, which was then in production.
Hanson denied the allegations at the time, with his lawyers telling Variety: “He maintains that he has never acted inappropriately on any production, or at all, and has never had any complaints made about his conduct over the course of...
- 8/16/2021
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
Bafta suspends Hanson, who denies all allegations.
UK producer Charlie Hanson has been removed from production of season three of After Life by Netflix, in the wake of allegations against him by 11 women including of serious sexual assault.
The allegations were detailed in a report by UK newspaper The Times today (May 29); Hanson has denied all wrongdoing, according to the paper.
They follow a report by Screen’s sister publication Broadcast yesterday (May 28) that Netflix had removed the producer following anonymous emails the company received on Monday (May 24) containing allegations of historical sexual harassment; the story didn’t identify Hanson by name.
UK producer Charlie Hanson has been removed from production of season three of After Life by Netflix, in the wake of allegations against him by 11 women including of serious sexual assault.
The allegations were detailed in a report by UK newspaper The Times today (May 29); Hanson has denied all wrongdoing, according to the paper.
They follow a report by Screen’s sister publication Broadcast yesterday (May 28) that Netflix had removed the producer following anonymous emails the company received on Monday (May 24) containing allegations of historical sexual harassment; the story didn’t identify Hanson by name.
- 5/29/2021
- by Ben Dalton
- ScreenDaily
How’s this for a match-up? Armie Hammer and Mads Mikkelsen are going back in time, specifically to the Cold War, for a new drama. The duo will be headlining Amma Asante’s forthcoming film The Billion Dollar Spy about the contentious relationship between a CIA officer and a Russian engineer. As their relationship deepens, it brings not only change to both of their lives, but also changes the power balance of the Cold War.
Variety reports the film is based on a real-life story written by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist David E. Hoffman. Amma Asante’s recent directorial credits include two episodes of FX’s Mrs. America and young adult romance Where Hands Touch. Mikkelsen is the star of this year’s dark comedy Another Round, which played to enthusiastic reviews at the Toronto International Film Festival. Hammer can be currently seen in Netflix’s new adaptation of Rebecca co-starring...
Variety reports the film is based on a real-life story written by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist David E. Hoffman. Amma Asante’s recent directorial credits include two episodes of FX’s Mrs. America and young adult romance Where Hands Touch. Mikkelsen is the star of this year’s dark comedy Another Round, which played to enthusiastic reviews at the Toronto International Film Festival. Hammer can be currently seen in Netflix’s new adaptation of Rebecca co-starring...
- 10/31/2020
- by Stephen Hladik
- The Film Stage
HanWay Films to handle international sales and distribution.
Mads Mikkelsen and Armie Hammer are to star in Amma Asante’s Cold War thriller The Billion Dollar Spy, on which HanWay Films will handle international sales and distribution.
HanWay will begin sales on the project at the AFM next month, while CAA Media Finance and Endeavor Content will oversee the US sale.
The long-gestating project saw production put on hold as a result of the coronavirus pandemic but is set to go into production next year in Eastern Europe.
Developed and produced by Walden Media, the film’s producers are Akiva Goldsman...
Mads Mikkelsen and Armie Hammer are to star in Amma Asante’s Cold War thriller The Billion Dollar Spy, on which HanWay Films will handle international sales and distribution.
HanWay will begin sales on the project at the AFM next month, while CAA Media Finance and Endeavor Content will oversee the US sale.
The long-gestating project saw production put on hold as a result of the coronavirus pandemic but is set to go into production next year in Eastern Europe.
Developed and produced by Walden Media, the film’s producers are Akiva Goldsman...
- 10/29/2020
- by Michael Rosser
- ScreenDaily
U.K. filmmaker Amma Asante has revealed she plans to start principal photography on long-gestating project “The Billion Dollar Spy” in 12 months. Production is currently on hold because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Adapted by Benjamin August (“Remember”) from David E. Hoffman’s bestselling book of the same name, the Walden Media and Weed Road Pictures production will recount the true story of a man who became the Pentagon’s most valuable spy during the last years of the Cold War. Akiva Goldsman is set to produce.
“You know the aesthetic I wanted, it needs to be covered in snow and as much real snow as possible and that does restrict the time of year,” said Asante. “I think it will be within the next 12 months.”
Asante was in conversation with Scottish radio DJ and TV presenter Edith Bowman, as part of a virtual BAFTA masterclass during which she discussed her award-winning career,...
Adapted by Benjamin August (“Remember”) from David E. Hoffman’s bestselling book of the same name, the Walden Media and Weed Road Pictures production will recount the true story of a man who became the Pentagon’s most valuable spy during the last years of the Cold War. Akiva Goldsman is set to produce.
“You know the aesthetic I wanted, it needs to be covered in snow and as much real snow as possible and that does restrict the time of year,” said Asante. “I think it will be within the next 12 months.”
Asante was in conversation with Scottish radio DJ and TV presenter Edith Bowman, as part of a virtual BAFTA masterclass during which she discussed her award-winning career,...
- 7/2/2020
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Fans were shocked when Ruby Rose announced her departure from Batwoman after the first season finale. From what we’ve heard from insiders though, her exit wasn’t a big surprise within the show. Rose was reportedly unhappy with the unrelenting schedule of shooting network television and being stuck in Vancouver, and she felt the series was limiting her movie career.
The second season of Batwoman is set to air in January 2021, meaning they’ll need to start filming the moment the Covid-19 restrictions lift. That tight timeframe also means that The CW are now busily hunting for someone to step into the cape and cowl. So far, the network has somewhat narrowed their potential casting choices by confirming that the role will be played by an Lgbtq actress, and we’ve now heard of one name that’s being eyed.
Sources close to Wgtc – the same ones who told...
The second season of Batwoman is set to air in January 2021, meaning they’ll need to start filming the moment the Covid-19 restrictions lift. That tight timeframe also means that The CW are now busily hunting for someone to step into the cape and cowl. So far, the network has somewhat narrowed their potential casting choices by confirming that the role will be played by an Lgbtq actress, and we’ve now heard of one name that’s being eyed.
Sources close to Wgtc – the same ones who told...
- 6/4/2020
- by David James
- We Got This Covered
The Irishman, 1917, Marriage Story also in contention.
Joanna Hogg’s The Souvenir leads the way with seven nominations for the 40th London Critics’ Circle Film Awards, including best film, actor (Tom Burke), supporting actress (Tilda Swinton) and young performer (Honor Swinton Byrne).
Close behind are Martin Scorsese’s The Irishman and Sam Mendes’ 1917 with six nods, while Noah Baumbach’s Marriage Story, Pedro Almodóvar’s Pain & Glory and Bong Joon Ho’s Parasite have five.
The winners will be announced on Sunday, 30 January at The May Fair Hotel. Sally Potter and Sandy Powell will both receive the Dilys Powell Award for Excellence in Film,...
Joanna Hogg’s The Souvenir leads the way with seven nominations for the 40th London Critics’ Circle Film Awards, including best film, actor (Tom Burke), supporting actress (Tilda Swinton) and young performer (Honor Swinton Byrne).
Close behind are Martin Scorsese’s The Irishman and Sam Mendes’ 1917 with six nods, while Noah Baumbach’s Marriage Story, Pedro Almodóvar’s Pain & Glory and Bong Joon Ho’s Parasite have five.
The winners will be announced on Sunday, 30 January at The May Fair Hotel. Sally Potter and Sandy Powell will both receive the Dilys Powell Award for Excellence in Film,...
- 12/17/2019
- by 1101184¦Orlando Parfitt¦38¦
- ScreenDaily
Nominations for the 40th edition of the London Critics’ Circle Film Awards were announced today, with Joanna Hogg’s The Souvenir out in front on seven nominations including Film, Screenwriter, Actor (Tom Burke), Supporting Actress (Tilda Swinton) and Young Performer (Honor Swinton Byrne).
Martin Scorsese’s The Irishman and Sam Mendes’ 1917 follow close behind with nominations in six categories apiece. On five were Noah Baumbach’s Marriage Story, Pedro Almodóvar’s Pain And Glory and Bong Joon Ho’s Parasite.
Lining up alongside the aforementioned in contention for Film Of The Year are Joker, Knives Out, Midsommar and Portrait Of A Lady On Fire.
Florence Pugh received three nominations, lead actress for Midsommar, supporting for Little Women, and British/Irish Actress for her work across the year.
Winners will be announced on January 30. There will also be three special awards presented: animation specialists Aardman (Shaun The Sheep) will receive the 40th Anniversary Award,...
Martin Scorsese’s The Irishman and Sam Mendes’ 1917 follow close behind with nominations in six categories apiece. On five were Noah Baumbach’s Marriage Story, Pedro Almodóvar’s Pain And Glory and Bong Joon Ho’s Parasite.
Lining up alongside the aforementioned in contention for Film Of The Year are Joker, Knives Out, Midsommar and Portrait Of A Lady On Fire.
Florence Pugh received three nominations, lead actress for Midsommar, supporting for Little Women, and British/Irish Actress for her work across the year.
Winners will be announced on January 30. There will also be three special awards presented: animation specialists Aardman (Shaun The Sheep) will receive the 40th Anniversary Award,...
- 12/17/2019
- by Tom Grater
- Deadline Film + TV
The London Film Critics’ Circle added its voice to the mix of critical precursors this awards season, announcing a slate of nominees topped by Joanna Hogg’s “The Souvenir.”
The British writer-director’s delicate autobiographical drama won top honors at Sundance and was named the year’s best film in Sight & Sound magazine’s annual critics’ poll, but it hasn’t made much headway with U.S. awards groups. The U.K. critics, however, handed it seven nominations, including bids for Film of the Year, Screenwriter of the Year and Actor of the Year for Tom Burke, while mother-and-daughter stars Tilda Swinton and Honor Swinton Byrne also earned acting mentions.
“The Souvenir” was followed by Martin Scorsese’s presumed Oscar magnet “The Irishman” and Sam Mendes’ technically dazzling World War I thriller “1917,” both of which earned six nods. Three foreign=language films – Bong Joon-ho’s “Parasite,” Pedro Almodóvar’s “Pain and Glory...
The British writer-director’s delicate autobiographical drama won top honors at Sundance and was named the year’s best film in Sight & Sound magazine’s annual critics’ poll, but it hasn’t made much headway with U.S. awards groups. The U.K. critics, however, handed it seven nominations, including bids for Film of the Year, Screenwriter of the Year and Actor of the Year for Tom Burke, while mother-and-daughter stars Tilda Swinton and Honor Swinton Byrne also earned acting mentions.
“The Souvenir” was followed by Martin Scorsese’s presumed Oscar magnet “The Irishman” and Sam Mendes’ technically dazzling World War I thriller “1917,” both of which earned six nods. Three foreign=language films – Bong Joon-ho’s “Parasite,” Pedro Almodóvar’s “Pain and Glory...
- 12/17/2019
- by Guy Lodge
- Variety Film + TV
Director David M. Rosenthal’s reimagining of “Jacob’s Ladder,” the 1990 psychological thriller directed by Adrian Lyne and starring Tim Robbins, is finally readying for release, six years after the project was launched. Written by Jeff Buhler and Sarah Thorp, this new take on the story stars Michael Ealy, Jesse Williams, and Nicole Beharie as part of an all-black cast.
First announced in 2013 and finally shot in 2016, Ld Entertainment’s remake has remained mostly shrouded in secrecy. The production company’s stated goal was to produce more of an homage, rather than a copy of the original, contemporizing the story while remaining true to the issues it examines and questions raised.
In the original, scripted by Bruce Joel Rubin, the protagonist is a Vietnam veteran whose experiences prior to and during the war result in fragmented flashbacks and bizarre hallucinations that continue to haunt him as he desperately tries to...
First announced in 2013 and finally shot in 2016, Ld Entertainment’s remake has remained mostly shrouded in secrecy. The production company’s stated goal was to produce more of an homage, rather than a copy of the original, contemporizing the story while remaining true to the issues it examines and questions raised.
In the original, scripted by Bruce Joel Rubin, the protagonist is a Vietnam veteran whose experiences prior to and during the war result in fragmented flashbacks and bizarre hallucinations that continue to haunt him as he desperately tries to...
- 7/1/2019
- by Tambay Obenson
- Indiewire
Exclusive: Amandla Stenberg is attached to star in Universal’s reimagined take of the 1996 thriller Fear.
The original movie, released in 1996, starred Mark Wahlberg and Reese Witherspoon early on in their careers as young lovers David and Nicole. David is charming and affectionate, but Nicole soon sees a darker side to him.
Oscar nominee Jonathan Herman (Straight Outta Compton) is writing the pic. Brian Grazer, who produced the original film, again produces for Imagine Entertainment alongside Imagine’s Karen Lunder. Evp Production Jon Mone will oversee production for Universal.
Stenberg most recently starred in Fox 2000’s impactful drama The Hate U Give, which premiered at the 2018 Toronto Film Festival. She was also recently seen in Where Hands Touch, Everything, Everything, As You Are, and The Hunger Games.
In 2018, Stenberg appeared on the cover of Time Magazine for their next generation leaders issue and was given the Visibility Award by the Human Rights Campaign.
The original movie, released in 1996, starred Mark Wahlberg and Reese Witherspoon early on in their careers as young lovers David and Nicole. David is charming and affectionate, but Nicole soon sees a darker side to him.
Oscar nominee Jonathan Herman (Straight Outta Compton) is writing the pic. Brian Grazer, who produced the original film, again produces for Imagine Entertainment alongside Imagine’s Karen Lunder. Evp Production Jon Mone will oversee production for Universal.
Stenberg most recently starred in Fox 2000’s impactful drama The Hate U Give, which premiered at the 2018 Toronto Film Festival. She was also recently seen in Where Hands Touch, Everything, Everything, As You Are, and The Hunger Games.
In 2018, Stenberg appeared on the cover of Time Magazine for their next generation leaders issue and was given the Visibility Award by the Human Rights Campaign.
- 5/23/2019
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Ld Entertainment’s reimagining of “Jacob’s Ladder,” the 1990 psychological thriller directed by Adrian Lyne, starring Tim Robbins, has set what should be a final release date, six years after the project was launched.
Directed by David M. Rosenthal and written by Jeff Buhler and Sarah Thorp, this reimagining stars Michael Ealy, Jesse Williams, and Nicole Beharie.
In the original, scripted by Bruce Joel Rubin, the protagonist is a Vietnam veteran whose experiences prior to and during the war result in fragmented flashbacks and bizarre hallucinations that continue to haunt him, as he desperately tries to get to the bottom of it all. Although not a box office hit ($26 million gross on a $25 million budget), the film went on to achieve cult hit status.
First announced in 2013, and finally shot in 2016, Ld Entertainment’s remake has remained mostly shrouded in secrecy. The production company’s goal was to produce more of an homage,...
Directed by David M. Rosenthal and written by Jeff Buhler and Sarah Thorp, this reimagining stars Michael Ealy, Jesse Williams, and Nicole Beharie.
In the original, scripted by Bruce Joel Rubin, the protagonist is a Vietnam veteran whose experiences prior to and during the war result in fragmented flashbacks and bizarre hallucinations that continue to haunt him, as he desperately tries to get to the bottom of it all. Although not a box office hit ($26 million gross on a $25 million budget), the film went on to achieve cult hit status.
First announced in 2013, and finally shot in 2016, Ld Entertainment’s remake has remained mostly shrouded in secrecy. The production company’s goal was to produce more of an homage,...
- 5/21/2019
- by Tambay Obenson
- Indiewire
’Avengers: Endgame’ aims to hold top spot for third week.
Warner Bros’ Pokémon Detective Pikachu faces a daunting task in trying to wrest the box office crown from Avengers: Endgame this weekend.
The feature is the latest instalment in the popular Japanese franchise, with Ryan Reynolds lending his voice and motion-captured face to the small rodent-like creature with powerful electrical abilities. It is the first Pokémon film to mix animation with live action.
In this story, a former Pokémon trainer Tim Goodman (Justice Smith) finds a talking Pikachu that once belong to his father, and wants to be a detective.
Warner Bros’ Pokémon Detective Pikachu faces a daunting task in trying to wrest the box office crown from Avengers: Endgame this weekend.
The feature is the latest instalment in the popular Japanese franchise, with Ryan Reynolds lending his voice and motion-captured face to the small rodent-like creature with powerful electrical abilities. It is the first Pokémon film to mix animation with live action.
In this story, a former Pokémon trainer Tim Goodman (Justice Smith) finds a talking Pikachu that once belong to his father, and wants to be a detective.
- 5/10/2019
- by Ben Dalton
- ScreenDaily
Amandla Stenberg has been cast as the lead in Damien Chazelle’s Netflix series “The Eddy,” which will globally debut in 2020.
The eight-part musical drama is expected to debut in 2020. It revolves around a club in Paris, highlighting its owner, the house band, and the chaotic city that surrounds them. Stenberg will play Julie, the teenage daughter of Elliott (Andre Holland) who shows up suddenly in Paris and forces him to face his past. Stenberg also joins Joanna Kulig (“Cold War”) on the show, who was previously announced to play Maja, a singer who is resisting committing to Elliot, her on-again-off-again partner.
“La La Land” filmmaker Damien Chazelle is directing the show, along with Houda Benyamina (“Divines”), Alan Poul (“Tales of the City”). Scribe Jack Thorne (“Wonder”) will also write several episodes. Glen Ballard wrote all the band’s songs. Executive producers include Chazelle, Poul, Thorne, and Ballard. Jimmy Desmarais...
The eight-part musical drama is expected to debut in 2020. It revolves around a club in Paris, highlighting its owner, the house band, and the chaotic city that surrounds them. Stenberg will play Julie, the teenage daughter of Elliott (Andre Holland) who shows up suddenly in Paris and forces him to face his past. Stenberg also joins Joanna Kulig (“Cold War”) on the show, who was previously announced to play Maja, a singer who is resisting committing to Elliot, her on-again-off-again partner.
“La La Land” filmmaker Damien Chazelle is directing the show, along with Houda Benyamina (“Divines”), Alan Poul (“Tales of the City”). Scribe Jack Thorne (“Wonder”) will also write several episodes. Glen Ballard wrote all the band’s songs. Executive producers include Chazelle, Poul, Thorne, and Ballard. Jimmy Desmarais...
- 5/6/2019
- by Rachel Yang
- Variety Film + TV
The Hate U Give star and celebrated advocate Amandla Stenberg is ready to show us even more range and talent in the forthcoming Netflix original series The Eddy. She will star in the new musical drama which co-stars Andre Holland.
Stenberg will play Julie, the teenage daughter of Elliott (Holland) who shows up suddenly in Paris and forces him to face his past. The Eddy is an eight-part musical drama set in contemporary multicultural Paris revolving around a club, its owner, the house band, and the chaotic city that surrounds them.
The series will include a stacked slate of directors including Academy Award-winner Damien Chazelle (La La Land), Cannes’ Camera d’Or-winner Houda Benyamina (Divines), Emmy-winner Alan Poul (Tales of the City) Five-time BAFTA, Tony, and Olivier Award-winning writer, Jack Thorne (Wonder) who will also write several episodes. Six-time Grammy Award-winner Glen Ballard, wrote all the band’s songs. Chazelle will also serve as executive producer along with Alan Poul, Jack Thorne, Glen Ballard. Jimmy Desmarais and Olivier Bibas of Atlantique Productions are also executive producing. Holland serves as Co-Executive Producer.
The series begins production this spring in France and features dialogue in French, English, and Arabic. The Eddy comes to Netflix from Endeavor Content and is slated to premiere in 2020.
Stenberg became known for her role in The Hunger Games franchise and soon became most influential voices when it comes to young Hollywood as well as advocacy for people of color, women, the Lgbtq community and underrepresented voices She starred in the critically acclaimed The Hate U Give based on the novel by Angie Thomas which shed light on the timely topic of police brutality against the black community. Her role in The Eddy will showcase her musical talent that is not often put in the spotlight. She plays the violin and has sung with singer-songwriter Zander Hawley. The duo released their first folk-rock Ep in August 2015 under the name Honeywater.
Stenberg’s credits also include Amma Asante’s WWII drama Where Hands Touch, the sci-fi film The Darkest Minds as well as Everything, Everthing and As You Are which won the Special Jury Award at Sundance 20116. She appeared on Time as a Next Generation Leader and was honored with the 2019 Visibility Award by the Human Rights Campaign.
2019 Netflix Pilots & Series Orders...
Stenberg will play Julie, the teenage daughter of Elliott (Holland) who shows up suddenly in Paris and forces him to face his past. The Eddy is an eight-part musical drama set in contemporary multicultural Paris revolving around a club, its owner, the house band, and the chaotic city that surrounds them.
The series will include a stacked slate of directors including Academy Award-winner Damien Chazelle (La La Land), Cannes’ Camera d’Or-winner Houda Benyamina (Divines), Emmy-winner Alan Poul (Tales of the City) Five-time BAFTA, Tony, and Olivier Award-winning writer, Jack Thorne (Wonder) who will also write several episodes. Six-time Grammy Award-winner Glen Ballard, wrote all the band’s songs. Chazelle will also serve as executive producer along with Alan Poul, Jack Thorne, Glen Ballard. Jimmy Desmarais and Olivier Bibas of Atlantique Productions are also executive producing. Holland serves as Co-Executive Producer.
The series begins production this spring in France and features dialogue in French, English, and Arabic. The Eddy comes to Netflix from Endeavor Content and is slated to premiere in 2020.
Stenberg became known for her role in The Hunger Games franchise and soon became most influential voices when it comes to young Hollywood as well as advocacy for people of color, women, the Lgbtq community and underrepresented voices She starred in the critically acclaimed The Hate U Give based on the novel by Angie Thomas which shed light on the timely topic of police brutality against the black community. Her role in The Eddy will showcase her musical talent that is not often put in the spotlight. She plays the violin and has sung with singer-songwriter Zander Hawley. The duo released their first folk-rock Ep in August 2015 under the name Honeywater.
Stenberg’s credits also include Amma Asante’s WWII drama Where Hands Touch, the sci-fi film The Darkest Minds as well as Everything, Everthing and As You Are which won the Special Jury Award at Sundance 20116. She appeared on Time as a Next Generation Leader and was honored with the 2019 Visibility Award by the Human Rights Campaign.
2019 Netflix Pilots & Series Orders...
- 5/6/2019
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
Amma Asante’s new movie follows the story of a biracial girl during the Third Reich. How much of it reflects the film-maker’s fears of where we are heading now?
Amma Asante’s new film, Where Hands Touch, tells the story of a forgotten piece of history – the fate of black victims of the Holocaust. The director saw a picture online – a school photograph taken in Nazi Germany of girls aged 13 or so; a biracial girl looks out from the front row, her eye caught by something off camera. Nothing about the image made any sense to Asante. “She is a little girl of colour. She’s surrounded by what Hitler called Aryan girls, and it’s 1943. I wondered if she was still alive. Then, when I started to research, I realised all my assumptions were wrong.”
Up to 25,000 black people lived in Nazi Germany. Where Hands Touch is...
Amma Asante’s new film, Where Hands Touch, tells the story of a forgotten piece of history – the fate of black victims of the Holocaust. The director saw a picture online – a school photograph taken in Nazi Germany of girls aged 13 or so; a biracial girl looks out from the front row, her eye caught by something off camera. Nothing about the image made any sense to Asante. “She is a little girl of colour. She’s surrounded by what Hitler called Aryan girls, and it’s 1943. I wondered if she was still alive. Then, when I started to research, I realised all my assumptions were wrong.”
Up to 25,000 black people lived in Nazi Germany. Where Hands Touch is...
- 5/3/2019
- by Cath Clarke
- The Guardian - Film News
Belle and A United Kingdom director discussed her career during a Q&A at the Glasgow Film Festival.
UK writer-director Amma Asante, whose credits include Belle and A United Kingdom, has told an audience of rising writers and directors at the Glasgow Film Festival to make films for themselves, not a potential future audience.
“It’s about telling the stories that do for you what you hope to do for an audience, knowing that you can’t hope to please all the people all of the time. You just can’t,” said Asante.
“There is saying on social media ‘Who asked for this?...
UK writer-director Amma Asante, whose credits include Belle and A United Kingdom, has told an audience of rising writers and directors at the Glasgow Film Festival to make films for themselves, not a potential future audience.
“It’s about telling the stories that do for you what you hope to do for an audience, knowing that you can’t hope to please all the people all of the time. You just can’t,” said Asante.
“There is saying on social media ‘Who asked for this?...
- 3/4/2019
- by Louise Tutt
- ScreenDaily
A United Kingdom and Belle filmmaker to receive honorary award.
British Ghanaian filmmaker Amma Asante, whose credits include Belle and A United Kingdom, is receiving an honorary fellowship from the UK’s National Film and Television School (Nfts).
Asante will collect the prize from Nfts chairman Patrick McKenna at the school’s annual graduation ceremony on Thursday Feb 28. It recognises individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the industry.
After working as an actress, Asante’s break came when she wrote and produced two series of BBC2 drama Brothers And Sisters, which starred David Oyelowo. Her feature debut, A Way Of Life,...
British Ghanaian filmmaker Amma Asante, whose credits include Belle and A United Kingdom, is receiving an honorary fellowship from the UK’s National Film and Television School (Nfts).
Asante will collect the prize from Nfts chairman Patrick McKenna at the school’s annual graduation ceremony on Thursday Feb 28. It recognises individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the industry.
After working as an actress, Asante’s break came when she wrote and produced two series of BBC2 drama Brothers And Sisters, which starred David Oyelowo. Her feature debut, A Way Of Life,...
- 2/21/2019
- by Tom Grater
- ScreenDaily
Speakers include Amma Asante, Alice Lowe and Hope Dickson Leach.
UK director Amma Asante will reflect on her BAFTA-winning career as part of the three-day Industry Focus Event at the Glasgow Film Festival next month (February 27-March 1).
Asante’s films include A Way Of Life, Belle, A United Kingdom and Where Hands Touch. She recently signed to direct The Billion Dollar Spy for Walden Media and Weed Road. The ‘in conversation’ event will be hosted by Screen International with the support of Nfts Scotland.
Further industry panels and talks at Glasgow will include ‘The Actor-Director Relationship’ with Dirty God’s...
UK director Amma Asante will reflect on her BAFTA-winning career as part of the three-day Industry Focus Event at the Glasgow Film Festival next month (February 27-March 1).
Asante’s films include A Way Of Life, Belle, A United Kingdom and Where Hands Touch. She recently signed to direct The Billion Dollar Spy for Walden Media and Weed Road. The ‘in conversation’ event will be hosted by Screen International with the support of Nfts Scotland.
Further industry panels and talks at Glasgow will include ‘The Actor-Director Relationship’ with Dirty God’s...
- 1/31/2019
- by Louise Tutt
- ScreenDaily
Fans are not happy about Amandla Stenberg's latest film. The 20-year-old actress recently starred in Where Hands Touch, a war romance drama about an interracial teenager in Nazi Germany who falls in love with a member of the Hitler Youth. The movie, written and directed by Belle and A United Kingdom director Amma Asante, was released in September and was rated 45 percent on Rotten Tomatoes. On Wednesday, Asante announced on Twitter that the film is now available for streaming in the United States via iTunes and other platforms, sparking a mix of feedback on the project as it divided the internet. While some praised the movie and Stenberg's...
- 1/3/2019
- E! Online
There remains one group we’ve yet to hear from when it comes to the Best Films of 2018: The directors who made them. IndieWire has reached out to a number of our favorite filmmakers to share with us their lists and thoughts on the best of the year.
As is advisable with creative people, we gave the directors a great deal of freedom in how they reflected on the year in moving images. What follows is everything ranging from traditional Top 10 lists to a director like Lynne Ramsay writing passionately about her favorite film of the year, with lists that span TV, theater, the Kavanaugh hearings, WWE, and much more.
52 directors, so many of whom were behind our favorite films of the year – films like “Hereditary,” “Leave No Trace,” “First Reformed,” “Won’t You Be My Neighbor,” “Eighth Grade,” “Destroyer,” “Mid90s,” “Bisbee ’17,” “Madeline’s Madeline,” “Black Mother,” “The Tale,...
As is advisable with creative people, we gave the directors a great deal of freedom in how they reflected on the year in moving images. What follows is everything ranging from traditional Top 10 lists to a director like Lynne Ramsay writing passionately about her favorite film of the year, with lists that span TV, theater, the Kavanaugh hearings, WWE, and much more.
52 directors, so many of whom were behind our favorite films of the year – films like “Hereditary,” “Leave No Trace,” “First Reformed,” “Won’t You Be My Neighbor,” “Eighth Grade,” “Destroyer,” “Mid90s,” “Bisbee ’17,” “Madeline’s Madeline,” “Black Mother,” “The Tale,...
- 12/28/2018
- by Chris O'Falt
- Indiewire
You’ve probably heard of the likes of Patty Jenkins and Ava DuVernay. You’ve almost certainly heard of Kathryn Bigelow and Lynne Ramsay. But what other female directors come to mind when asked whose work you enjoy? Many brilliant women are out there making great films but few have become the huge recognisable names they deserve to be.
It’s time to delve a little deeper and have a look at (just some of) the very talented women making great work behind the camera.
Debra Granik
Winter’s Bone might be known as the film that launched Jennifer Lawrence’s career, but the subtlety and dark undertones of the film are a credit to director Debra Granik’s skills – skills which are plain to see again in her latest offering, the stunning Leave No Trace. She gets to the very core of people and explores their humanity and traumas...
It’s time to delve a little deeper and have a look at (just some of) the very talented women making great work behind the camera.
Debra Granik
Winter’s Bone might be known as the film that launched Jennifer Lawrence’s career, but the subtlety and dark undertones of the film are a credit to director Debra Granik’s skills – skills which are plain to see again in her latest offering, the stunning Leave No Trace. She gets to the very core of people and explores their humanity and traumas...
- 11/19/2018
- by Amanda Keats
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
‘Mrs Lowry and Son.’
The arthouse market in Australia is alive and well but these days in concentrated largely on myriad film festivals, according to Rialto Distribution’s Kelly Rogers.
So Rogers and Lisa Garner, Rialto’s head of film, are aiming to fill a gap in the market for upmarket titles with cross-over potential.
“We’re looking for films and stories that we emotionally connect with and we can see have a clear audience – whatever the genre,” says Garner, who opened the Sydney office in February, taking over from Backlot Films.
“Yes the market is cluttered, but if a film emotionally engages and entertains an audience then the film will find its audience and level.
”As the market shifts and changes we generally buy films based on knowing there’s a strong audience, whether that’s in the theatrical arena or home entertainment or sometimes a film that could go either way.
The arthouse market in Australia is alive and well but these days in concentrated largely on myriad film festivals, according to Rialto Distribution’s Kelly Rogers.
So Rogers and Lisa Garner, Rialto’s head of film, are aiming to fill a gap in the market for upmarket titles with cross-over potential.
“We’re looking for films and stories that we emotionally connect with and we can see have a clear audience – whatever the genre,” says Garner, who opened the Sydney office in February, taking over from Backlot Films.
“Yes the market is cluttered, but if a film emotionally engages and entertains an audience then the film will find its audience and level.
”As the market shifts and changes we generally buy films based on knowing there’s a strong audience, whether that’s in the theatrical arena or home entertainment or sometimes a film that could go either way.
- 11/11/2018
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
New Hollywood Podcast: Amandla Stenberg Talks ‘The Hate U Give’, Code Switching And Using Your Voice
The term “woke” is being thrown around casually these days. There are times when the use of the word is warranted and other times when it is just used as fashionable rhetoric as a veneer to make you look socially aware. But if there is one actress who embodies the term, it’s Amandla Stenberg — but her advocacy and activism aren’t forced, precious or trendy. It’s quiet, effortlessly authentic, thoughtful and reflected in her work and her voice…which is very similar to her character in the 20th Century Fox movie The Hate U Give.
Many may remember Stenberg as the fan-favorite character Rue in The Hunger Games, but shortly after, she made a video titled “Don’t Cash Crop My Cornrows: A Crash Discourse in Black Culture” that broke down the meaning of cultural appropriation. It went viral and made many think twice about how white celebrities like Kendall Jenner,...
Many may remember Stenberg as the fan-favorite character Rue in The Hunger Games, but shortly after, she made a video titled “Don’t Cash Crop My Cornrows: A Crash Discourse in Black Culture” that broke down the meaning of cultural appropriation. It went viral and made many think twice about how white celebrities like Kendall Jenner,...
- 11/7/2018
- by Dino-Ray Ramos and Amanda N'Duka
- Deadline Film + TV
On November 1, the 2018 IndieWire Honors ceremony will celebrate seven filmmakers and actors for their achievement in creative independence. We’re showcasing their work with new interviews this week.
Less than a decade into her career, actress Amandla Stenberg has already enjoyed at least two breakthrough moments, from her heartbreaking turn as the ill-fated young tribute Rue in “The Hunger Games” to her life-changing leading role in the recent big screen adaptation of “The Hate U Give.” Based on Angie Thomas’ timely bestseller of the same name, George Tillman Jr.’s film is built on Stenberg’s capable shoulders, casting the actress as Starr Carter, a clever teenager forced to live in two very different worlds, both of which come crashing down after a horrific crime.
“She’s allowed to be so multidimensional in a way most black characters are not,” the actress said in a recent interview with IndieWire. “She is so nuanced and real.
Less than a decade into her career, actress Amandla Stenberg has already enjoyed at least two breakthrough moments, from her heartbreaking turn as the ill-fated young tribute Rue in “The Hunger Games” to her life-changing leading role in the recent big screen adaptation of “The Hate U Give.” Based on Angie Thomas’ timely bestseller of the same name, George Tillman Jr.’s film is built on Stenberg’s capable shoulders, casting the actress as Starr Carter, a clever teenager forced to live in two very different worlds, both of which come crashing down after a horrific crime.
“She’s allowed to be so multidimensional in a way most black characters are not,” the actress said in a recent interview with IndieWire. “She is so nuanced and real.
- 10/31/2018
- by Kate Erbland
- Indiewire
The British Film Institute has promoted Ben Roberts, director of the BFI Film Fund, to deputy chief executive of the organization. He starts his new role on Nov. 1.
Roberts retains overall direction of the Film Fund, but he will now have a wider portfolio, working alongside CEO Amanda Nevill. This will include delivery of the organization’s five-year plan, BFI2022, helping to chart its strategic and cultural course. In particular, he will develop the BFI’s role beyond cinema, across all screen sectors and emerging media.
His responsibilities will include “strengthening BFI relationships with the wider screen industries, promoting cultural diversity across the organization, engaging new audiences and talent, and developing the BFI’s financial sustainability and future commercial strength,” according to a statement.
Roberts became BFI Film Fund chief in 2012, overseeing the BFI’s investments in film development, production and distribution, as well as its international activities. Among recent...
Roberts retains overall direction of the Film Fund, but he will now have a wider portfolio, working alongside CEO Amanda Nevill. This will include delivery of the organization’s five-year plan, BFI2022, helping to chart its strategic and cultural course. In particular, he will develop the BFI’s role beyond cinema, across all screen sectors and emerging media.
His responsibilities will include “strengthening BFI relationships with the wider screen industries, promoting cultural diversity across the organization, engaging new audiences and talent, and developing the BFI’s financial sustainability and future commercial strength,” according to a statement.
Roberts became BFI Film Fund chief in 2012, overseeing the BFI’s investments in film development, production and distribution, as well as its international activities. Among recent...
- 10/1/2018
- by Leo Barraclough
- Variety Film + TV
One could say that Amma Asante’s latest, Where Hands Touch is part of a trilogy of films. Before the Holocaust drama starring Amandla Stenberg, she directed David Oyelowo and Rosamund Pike in A United Kingdom and before that, she helmed Belle starring Gugu Mbatha-Raw. All three films are set in different time periods and tell different narratives that explore multiracial identity as well as interracial relationships. Asante sat down with us at the New Hollywood Podcast to give us some poignant insight about her films and how there’s a wealth of untold stories just like Where Hands Touch that seldom make it to the forefront.
Born in London and the daughter of immigrant parents from Ghana, Asante started off as an actress, starring in the British school drama Grange Hill. She shifted to filmmaking and directed A Way of Life in 2004, but started to get attention for the aforementioned Belle,...
Born in London and the daughter of immigrant parents from Ghana, Asante started off as an actress, starring in the British school drama Grange Hill. She shifted to filmmaking and directed A Way of Life in 2004, but started to get attention for the aforementioned Belle,...
- 9/26/2018
- by Dino-Ray Ramos and Amanda N'Duka
- Deadline Film + TV
The Notebook is covering Tiff with an on-going correspondence between critics Kelley Dong and Daniel Kasman.Dear Danny,I can assure you that the crowds of people surrounding the theatres still eagerly persist; some even arriving for only this weekend from other cities and countries. I have a handful of films remaining, and so much richness of material to peruse, so I look forward to exchanging more impressions and ideas with you even after the festival's conclusion. To alter your category a little, I'd say that there are plenty of directors whose works stem from admirable ambitions, but whose technical execution of these undercut whatever sincere convictions they might have. One of these is Amma Asante, a filmmaker with a curious fixation on adapting "true stories" of interracial romance between black and white people throughout history. There is certainly some merit to revivifying forgotten stories of love, and amplifying a...
- 9/17/2018
- MUBI
“Museo” (Vitagraph) led a slew of new specialized releases this week. The Mexican heist film starring Gael Garcia Bernal topped all other fresh titles. The fall season is already taking off with an astonishing 40 films opening theatrically this weekend, including at least six Sundance 2018 titles, two of which just played the Toronto International Film Festival.
And to confuse audiences even more, even more movies were available on home-viewing platforms as well as theaters, from the Nicolas Cage cult film “Mandy” to three films directed by established female directors. Netflix opened Nicole Holofcener’s suburban drama “The Land of Steady Habits” and Ricki Sundberg and Anne Sundberg’s timely documentary “Reversing Roe” on Friday after their Tiff premieres; and Amma Asante followed two Fox Searchlight releases with controversial Nazi Germany romance thriller “Where Hands Touch” (Vertical), which played in over 100 theaters with an estimated gross of under $70,000 while also streaming.
Dwarfing...
And to confuse audiences even more, even more movies were available on home-viewing platforms as well as theaters, from the Nicolas Cage cult film “Mandy” to three films directed by established female directors. Netflix opened Nicole Holofcener’s suburban drama “The Land of Steady Habits” and Ricki Sundberg and Anne Sundberg’s timely documentary “Reversing Roe” on Friday after their Tiff premieres; and Amma Asante followed two Fox Searchlight releases with controversial Nazi Germany romance thriller “Where Hands Touch” (Vertical), which played in over 100 theaters with an estimated gross of under $70,000 while also streaming.
Dwarfing...
- 9/16/2018
- by Tom Brueggemann
- Indiewire
Amma Asante made it four for four with her latest release, having four consecutive releases in the official Tiff lineup. Continuing the director’s interest in historical matters, Where Hands Touch tells the story of Leyna, a mixed-race girl coming of age during the Second World War. After the relatively gentle period stylings of Belle and A United Kingdom, Asante’s film came as something of a shock, since it pulls no punches in its depiction of Hitler’s Germany—a topic the director was keen to address when she came by the Deadline studio with stars Amandla Sternberg, George MacKay and Abbie Cornish.
The project, she said, was borne out of curiosity. “It was the wish to know a little bit more about the history of people like me,” she said. “People who are of African descent, but born and raised in Europe. I realized I knew more about...
The project, she said, was borne out of curiosity. “It was the wish to know a little bit more about the history of people like me,” she said. “People who are of African descent, but born and raised in Europe. I realized I knew more about...
- 9/15/2018
- by Damon Wise
- Deadline Film + TV
Chloë Sevigny Channels ‘Lizzie’; ‘American Chaos’, ‘Bel Canto’ Join Weekend – Specialty B.O. Preview
Following a late summer trickle of new Specialties, distributors are releasing a torrent of limited releases just as the Toronto Film Festival heads into its finale this weekend. Roadside Attractions/Saban Films have teamed on psychological thriller Lizzie with Chloë Sevigny and Kristen Stewart based on the famous New England murder of the 1890s; the film opens in New York and L.A. before going to the top 50 markets next weekend. Producer-director Jim Stern launches his documentary American Chaos, spotlighting the 2016 presidential election, via Sony Pictures Classics. Julianne Moore and Ken Watanabe star in Bel Canto, based on a novel of the same title by Ann Patchett. The general election also forms the backdrop to romance A Boy. A Girl. A Dream from Samuel Goldwyn Films, which hits five dozen theaters Friday. Sundance and SXSW favorite Science Fair begins its theatrical run via National Geographic Documentary Films. And Cranked Up Films,...
- 9/14/2018
- by Brian Brooks
- Deadline Film + TV
Writer/director Amma Asante has carved out a compelling niche for herself as a cinematic interpreter, or re-interpreter, of history, based around the realization that she can challenge entrenched historical narratives simply by giving a voice to mixed-race persons in the past, either in true stories or heavily researched fictions. The fact that her latest, “Where Hands Touch,” has already attracted some controversy, sight unseen, proves that interracial romance can still be seen as politically inconvenient, complicating narratives that we wish were simple.
Continue reading ‘Where Hands Touch’: History Overwhelms This Amandla Sternberg-Led Drama [Tiff Review] at The Playlist.
Continue reading ‘Where Hands Touch’: History Overwhelms This Amandla Sternberg-Led Drama [Tiff Review] at The Playlist.
- 9/11/2018
- by Joe Blessing
- The Playlist
A selection of the British movies screening at the Toronto Film Festival:
“Outlaw King”
Director: David Mackenzie
Section: Gala Presentations
Logline: Forced into exile by the English, Robert the Bruce (Chris Pine) fights to reclaim
the Scottish throne.
“Widows”
Director: Steve McQueen
Section: Gala Presentations
Logline: Crime thriller about four women left in the lurch when their criminal husbands are killed.
“Colette” (U.K.)
Director: Wash Westmoreland
Section: Special Presentations
Logline: Keira Knightley stars in historical drama about the eponymous French novelist.
“Driven”
Director: Nick Hamm
Section: Special Presentations
Logline: Lee Pace and Jason Sudeikis star in this story of the rise and fall of automotive maverick John DeLorean.
“Red Joan” (U.K.)
Director: Trevor Nunn
Section: Special Presentations
Logline: Judi Dench and Sophie Cookson take on the complex persona of a seemingly demure physicist who is a British spy for the Kgb.
“Teen Spirit” (U.K.)
Director: Max Minghella...
“Outlaw King”
Director: David Mackenzie
Section: Gala Presentations
Logline: Forced into exile by the English, Robert the Bruce (Chris Pine) fights to reclaim
the Scottish throne.
“Widows”
Director: Steve McQueen
Section: Gala Presentations
Logline: Crime thriller about four women left in the lurch when their criminal husbands are killed.
“Colette” (U.K.)
Director: Wash Westmoreland
Section: Special Presentations
Logline: Keira Knightley stars in historical drama about the eponymous French novelist.
“Driven”
Director: Nick Hamm
Section: Special Presentations
Logline: Lee Pace and Jason Sudeikis star in this story of the rise and fall of automotive maverick John DeLorean.
“Red Joan” (U.K.)
Director: Trevor Nunn
Section: Special Presentations
Logline: Judi Dench and Sophie Cookson take on the complex persona of a seemingly demure physicist who is a British spy for the Kgb.
“Teen Spirit” (U.K.)
Director: Max Minghella...
- 9/11/2018
- by Leo Barraclough
- Variety Film + TV
Filmmaker Amma Asante and actors Abbie Cornish and Amandla Stenberg dropped by the Variety Studio presented by At&T at the Toronto Film Festival to talk about their new movie, “Where Hands Touch.”
The film tells the story of Leyna (Stenberg), a young girl coming of age in World War II Germany. Cornish plays her mother, desperate to protect her from the world, and George MacKay also stars as a Hitler Youth who finds himself drawn to her.
Though set more than 50 years ago, the movie resonates with timely themes, and Stenberg detailed one day of shooting that was particularly unnerving. In the scene, Leyna and her mother are stopped by an SS officer who berates them, saying, “how Leyna is a blemish to the nation, how she should be ashamed of herself for having created a Negro child.”
As it turned out, they were filming at the same time as...
The film tells the story of Leyna (Stenberg), a young girl coming of age in World War II Germany. Cornish plays her mother, desperate to protect her from the world, and George MacKay also stars as a Hitler Youth who finds himself drawn to her.
Though set more than 50 years ago, the movie resonates with timely themes, and Stenberg detailed one day of shooting that was particularly unnerving. In the scene, Leyna and her mother are stopped by an SS officer who berates them, saying, “how Leyna is a blemish to the nation, how she should be ashamed of herself for having created a Negro child.”
As it turned out, they were filming at the same time as...
- 9/10/2018
- by Jenelle Riley
- Variety Film + TV
Now is not the time to make a film romanticizing Nazism or allowing anyone who donned the swastika during World Was II a modicum of sympathy. I’d argue there could never be such a time — at least not for those who say they felt bad but still did nothing to stop the nightmare they helped usher into creation. Their cooperation in a genocidal extermination cannot be given a footnote for remorse. They cannot skate by on some notion that they participated unwillingly so as not to cement their own deaths and therefore be unable to “fight back.” The people dying didn’t have that choice. To say you killed some to save others is meaningless when your own life proves the first and only one to be guaranteed survival.
So it’s not surprising there’s been backlash to the trailer for Amma Asante’s latest Where Hands Touch.
So it’s not surprising there’s been backlash to the trailer for Amma Asante’s latest Where Hands Touch.
- 9/10/2018
- by Jared Mobarak
- The Film Stage
With her 2013 period drama “Belle,” director Amma Asante deftly handled the social uncertainties of a mixed-race aristocrat in 18th-century England, caught between worlds without firmly belonging to any of them. Asante offers a similar predicament in “Where Hands Touch,” a World War 2 drama about a secret affair between a black German teenager and a member of the Hitler Youth, but her themes of identity and racial persecution are muddled by a star-crossed love that drifts from unlikely to absurdly implausible. Playing the daughter of a Senegalese father and an Aryan mother, Amandla Stenberg carries the magnetism she brought to her breakthrough role in the Ya romance “Everything, Everything,” but she’s betrayed by a stilted rendering of a rarely illuminated piece of history.
Of the approximately 25,000 black people living in Germany at the time, several hundred were called “the Rhineland bastards,” the offspring of black colonial troops fighting for the...
Of the approximately 25,000 black people living in Germany at the time, several hundred were called “the Rhineland bastards,” the offspring of black colonial troops fighting for the...
- 9/10/2018
- by Scott Tobias
- Variety Film + TV
Amandla Stenberg has already made her mark on this year’s Toronto Film Festival with an acclaimed central turn in “The Hate U Give.” But she expands her impressive range still further with a second festival entry, Amma Asante’s heartfelt Holocaust drama “Where Hands Touch.”
Despite its upcoming theatrical release, the movie feels like a better fit for the intimacy of living rooms or classrooms, where Stenberg’s powerful performance may draw teen fans into a diligently-conceived history lesson.
The story itself is fictional, but writer-director Asante (“A United Kingdom”) was inspired by the actual experiences of Afro-German citizens persecuted during World War II. Stenberg plays Leyna, a biracial teenager whose mere existence requires perpetual vigilance in 1944 Berlin.
Also Read: Amandla Stenberg's 'The Hate U Give' Gets Fall Release Date
Her terrified single mother, Kerstin (Abbie Cornish), would prefer that Leyna stay inside all the time, away...
Despite its upcoming theatrical release, the movie feels like a better fit for the intimacy of living rooms or classrooms, where Stenberg’s powerful performance may draw teen fans into a diligently-conceived history lesson.
The story itself is fictional, but writer-director Asante (“A United Kingdom”) was inspired by the actual experiences of Afro-German citizens persecuted during World War II. Stenberg plays Leyna, a biracial teenager whose mere existence requires perpetual vigilance in 1944 Berlin.
Also Read: Amandla Stenberg's 'The Hate U Give' Gets Fall Release Date
Her terrified single mother, Kerstin (Abbie Cornish), would prefer that Leyna stay inside all the time, away...
- 9/10/2018
- by Elizabeth Weitzman
- The Wrap
I See a Dark Stranger: Asante Examines Obscured Holocaust Perspective in Anglo Period Piece
British director Amma Asante rounds out a thematic trilogy of sorts with her fourth feature, Where Hands Touch, a harrowing account of a mixed-race teenager struggling to survive in WWII Berlin. A spirited follow-up to Asante’s 2013 breakout Belle (review) and 2016’s A United Kingdom, the director once more unearths a provocative interracial narrative heretofore largely ignored by most mainstream English language cinema.
In keeping with a tradition of many a Holocaust survival drama, which includes the nagging distraction of forcing all its German characters to speak in accented English, Asante’s latest is thematically her most familiar effort to date, as well as her grisliest.…...
British director Amma Asante rounds out a thematic trilogy of sorts with her fourth feature, Where Hands Touch, a harrowing account of a mixed-race teenager struggling to survive in WWII Berlin. A spirited follow-up to Asante’s 2013 breakout Belle (review) and 2016’s A United Kingdom, the director once more unearths a provocative interracial narrative heretofore largely ignored by most mainstream English language cinema.
In keeping with a tradition of many a Holocaust survival drama, which includes the nagging distraction of forcing all its German characters to speak in accented English, Asante’s latest is thematically her most familiar effort to date, as well as her grisliest.…...
- 9/10/2018
- by Nicholas Bell
- IONCINEMA.com
Even before her latest film had shown a single frame of footage, Amma Asante’s “Where Hands Touch” was garnering negative attention online. When a first-look photo from the film was released in mid-February, it was met with backlash across social media platforms, and commenters voiced their displeasure that, in crafting a story around a persecuted person and a Hitler Youth, Asante was “romanticizing” Nazis and otherwise diminishing the experience of those that suffered during World War II and the Holocaust.
“Where Hands Touch” follows the romance between pair of German teenagers — Amandla Stenberg as biracial Leyna and George MacKay as Lutz, the son of a prominent SS officer and a member of the Hitler Youth — and it unfolds against the backdrop of the war and the Holocaust. Two of Asante’s previous films, “Belle” and “A United Kingdom,” are historically-set dramas that focus on interracial relationships that unfold despite intense racism and persecution.
“Where Hands Touch” follows the romance between pair of German teenagers — Amandla Stenberg as biracial Leyna and George MacKay as Lutz, the son of a prominent SS officer and a member of the Hitler Youth — and it unfolds against the backdrop of the war and the Holocaust. Two of Asante’s previous films, “Belle” and “A United Kingdom,” are historically-set dramas that focus on interracial relationships that unfold despite intense racism and persecution.
- 9/9/2018
- by Kate Erbland
- Indiewire
Tiff executive director Michele Maheux introduced a line-up of industry women to speak about gender equality
Hundreds of women and men gathered in downtown Toronto for Tiff’s Share Her Journey rally for women in film. Named after Tiff’s campaign for working towards gender equality in film, the rally was opened by Tiff executive director Michele Maheux, who introduced a line-up of female founders, actors and executives on stage to speak on the issue of women fighting for equality in the industry.
“Of the 1,100 most popular films released in the Us in the last 11 years, only 4% have female directors,...
Hundreds of women and men gathered in downtown Toronto for Tiff’s Share Her Journey rally for women in film. Named after Tiff’s campaign for working towards gender equality in film, the rally was opened by Tiff executive director Michele Maheux, who introduced a line-up of female founders, actors and executives on stage to speak on the issue of women fighting for equality in the industry.
“Of the 1,100 most popular films released in the Us in the last 11 years, only 4% have female directors,...
- 9/9/2018
- by Karina Mohammed
- ScreenDaily
Where Hands Touch Trailer Amma Asante‘s Where Hands Touch (2018) movie trailer stars Amandla Stenberg, George MacKay, Abbie Cornish, Christopher Eccleston, and Tom Sweet. Where Hands Touch‘s plot synopsis: Inspired by a real-life 1940s-era photo of a young African-German girl, “Where Hands Touch is a coming of age story set in [...]
Continue reading: Where Hands Touch (2018) Movie Trailer: Amandla Stenberg is an Biracial Teen in Nazi Germany...
Continue reading: Where Hands Touch (2018) Movie Trailer: Amandla Stenberg is an Biracial Teen in Nazi Germany...
- 9/1/2018
- by Rollo Tomasi
- Film-Book
Although her role in this summer’s “The Darkest Minds” did little to inspire, Amandla Stenberg seems to be headed to a star-making fall season, as two of her films will make their debuts at the Toronto International Film Festival. Her performance as Starr in the Ya-book adaption “The Hate U Give” is already building buzz, and it looks as though she will shoulder that film’s all-too-relevant themes of today quite powerfully.
Continue reading ‘Where Hands Touch’ Trailer: Amandla Stenberg Falls In Love With A Hitler Youth at The Playlist.
Continue reading ‘Where Hands Touch’ Trailer: Amandla Stenberg Falls In Love With A Hitler Youth at The Playlist.
- 9/1/2018
- by Ted Silva
- The Playlist
"I want her to be like everyone else." Vertical Entertainment has debuted the first official trailer for an indie drama titled Where Hands Touch, premiering at the Toronto Film Festival coming up. This is the latest film by filmmaker Amma Asante and it's about a young mixed-race girl living in Nazi Germany in the 1940s. Inspired by a real photo of an African-German woman during WWII, the film stars Amandla Stenberg as Leyna, a courageous teen who must figure out how to survive when the Nazis start eradicating anyone that didn't fit into their perfect Aryan society. The cast includes George MacKay, Abbie Cornish, Christopher Eccleston, Tom Goodman-Hill, Alec Newman, Olivia Vinall, and Will Attenborough. This looks very good, not a story I have heard of before, but I'm very much interested in seeing this now. Stenberg keeps appearing in more and more and she's always impressive. Check this out.
- 9/1/2018
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
Amandla Stenberg revisits a horrifying chapter in history in her upcoming movie, Where Hands Touch.
In the historical drama from acclaimed director Amma Asante (Belle), the Hunger Games actress, 19, plays Leyna, the 15-year old daughter of a white German mother (Abbie Cornish) and a black African father, as her character comes of age during the Holocaust. In the movie’s first trailer, exclusive to People, Leyna forms an unlikely connection to a compassionate member of the Hitler Youth, whose father (Christopher Eccleston) is a prominent Nazi solider. As her mother tries to protect her from the atrocities of the war in 1944, Germany,...
In the historical drama from acclaimed director Amma Asante (Belle), the Hunger Games actress, 19, plays Leyna, the 15-year old daughter of a white German mother (Abbie Cornish) and a black African father, as her character comes of age during the Holocaust. In the movie’s first trailer, exclusive to People, Leyna forms an unlikely connection to a compassionate member of the Hitler Youth, whose father (Christopher Eccleston) is a prominent Nazi solider. As her mother tries to protect her from the atrocities of the war in 1944, Germany,...
- 8/31/2018
- by Nigel Smith
- PEOPLE.com
Amandla Stenberg’s upcoming film “Where Hands Touch,” which is set during the Holocaust, has raised many eyebrows ahead of its release.
The romantic period piece from filmmaker Amma Asante revolves around the romance between two German teenagers — Stenberg as a biracial young woman coming of age during the time of the Holocaust and George MacKay as a member of the Hitler Youth — and when Variety posted a first look image from the film back in early 2017, social media users criticized the drama for romanticizing Nazis.
Asante quickly took to social media to defend her project and clarify her purpose, writing, “This film does not romanticize Nazis in any way.” The writer and director explained that the film is a passion project of hers because she wants to shine a light on the existence of “Rhineland bastards,” the German children of color who grew up under Hitler’s rule.
Stenberg...
The romantic period piece from filmmaker Amma Asante revolves around the romance between two German teenagers — Stenberg as a biracial young woman coming of age during the time of the Holocaust and George MacKay as a member of the Hitler Youth — and when Variety posted a first look image from the film back in early 2017, social media users criticized the drama for romanticizing Nazis.
Asante quickly took to social media to defend her project and clarify her purpose, writing, “This film does not romanticize Nazis in any way.” The writer and director explained that the film is a passion project of hers because she wants to shine a light on the existence of “Rhineland bastards,” the German children of color who grew up under Hitler’s rule.
Stenberg...
- 8/28/2018
- by Elizabeth Wagmeister
- Variety Film + TV
35 features with UK involvement are playing across the two festivals.
Four months ago, the UK was reacting to the disappointment of just four films with UK involvement in the Cannes Film Festival programme, including no outright UK films in the Competition, Un Certain Regard, Critics’ Week, and Directors’ Fortnight strands.
Several execs reiterated to Screen at the time that Cannes remains the premiere destination of choice, but suggested the autumn festivals such as Venice and Toronto were beginning to offer an increased appeal to UK filmmakers with their closer proximity to distribution in key territories and awards season.
Indeed, the...
Four months ago, the UK was reacting to the disappointment of just four films with UK involvement in the Cannes Film Festival programme, including no outright UK films in the Competition, Un Certain Regard, Critics’ Week, and Directors’ Fortnight strands.
Several execs reiterated to Screen at the time that Cannes remains the premiere destination of choice, but suggested the autumn festivals such as Venice and Toronto were beginning to offer an increased appeal to UK filmmakers with their closer proximity to distribution in key territories and awards season.
Indeed, the...
- 8/24/2018
- by Tom Grater
- ScreenDaily
Get in touch to send in cinephile news and discoveries. For daily updates follow us @NotebookMUBI.News Luca Guadagnino's Suspiria.The lineup for this year's Venice Film Festival has been announced. In-competition titles include Carlos Reygadas' open-relationship romance Where Life is Born (the auteur's first feature in 5 years), Shinya Tsukamoto's much-anticipated samurai film Killing, and Jennifer Kent's The Nightingale, a Gothic revenge story set in Tasmania. The Venice Documentaries section joins an eclectic range of heavy-hitters, from Gastón Solnicki (Kékszakállú) and once-retiree Tsai Ming-liang, to Errol Morris and Frederick Wiseman, whose Ex-Libris: The New York Public Library screened in competition at the festival last year.Meanwhile, the 2018 Toronto International Film Festival has followed suit, releasing the names of the films set to premiere at its Special Presentations and Galas. Notably, this edition reunites the festival with Barry Jenkins, whose James Baldwin adaptation If Beale Street Could Talk will have its world premiere.
- 7/25/2018
- MUBI
High LifeA selection of films from the 2018 edition of the Toronto International Film Festival has been unveiled, with new films by Claire Denis, Barry Jenkins, Mia Hansen-Løve, Steve McQueen, and many more.Special PRESENTATIONSOpening Night: Mouthpiece (Patricia Rozema)Closing Night: Shoplifters (Hirokazu Kore-eda)Ben is Back (Peter Hedges)Burning (Lee Chang-dong)Can You Ever Forgive Me? (Marielle Heller)Capernaum (Nadine Labaki)Cold War (Paweł Pawlikowski)Colette (Wash Westmoreland)Dogman (Matteo Garrone)The Front Runner (Jason Reitman)Giant Little Ones (Keith Behrman)Girls of the Sun (Eva Husson)Hotel Mumbai (Anthony Maras)The Hummingbird Project (Kim Nguyen)If Beale Street Could Talk (Barry Jenkins)Manto (Nandita Das)Maya (Mia Hansen-Løve)Monsters and Men (Reinaldo Marcus Green)Non-Fiction (Olivier Assayas)The Old Man & The Gun (David Lowery)Papi Chulo (John Butler)Roma (Alfonso Cuarón)The Sisters Brothers (Jacques Audiard)Sunset (László Nemes)Through Black Spruce (Don McKellar)The Wedding Guest (Michael Winterbottom...
- 7/24/2018
- MUBI
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