China’s Wanda Film has appointed actress-turned-film executive Chen Xi as board director and chair.
According to local reports, Chen (who also goes by Yedda Zhixi Chen) additionally will serve as the legal representative of Shenzhen-listed Wanda Film, which is the country’s largest cinema operator. Wanda Film finances Chinese films.
Since 2015, Chen has served as executive director of Ruyi Holdings and president of Shanghai Ruyi Television Production.
This comes after the chairman of Chinese giant Dalian Wanda and two Wanda operating units agreed to sell a combined 51% stake in the controlling shareholder of Wanda Film to a company linked to Chen’s employer, China Ruyi Holdings.
Shanghai Ruyi Investment Management, which is buying the stake, is controlled by Ke Liming, chairman of movie producer and online streaming service Ruyi.
While at Ruyi, Chen was an investor and producer of highly successful films, including Moon Man and Hi Mom. Collecting $460M at the box office,...
According to local reports, Chen (who also goes by Yedda Zhixi Chen) additionally will serve as the legal representative of Shenzhen-listed Wanda Film, which is the country’s largest cinema operator. Wanda Film finances Chinese films.
Since 2015, Chen has served as executive director of Ruyi Holdings and president of Shanghai Ruyi Television Production.
This comes after the chairman of Chinese giant Dalian Wanda and two Wanda operating units agreed to sell a combined 51% stake in the controlling shareholder of Wanda Film to a company linked to Chen’s employer, China Ruyi Holdings.
Shanghai Ruyi Investment Management, which is buying the stake, is controlled by Ke Liming, chairman of movie producer and online streaming service Ruyi.
While at Ruyi, Chen was an investor and producer of highly successful films, including Moon Man and Hi Mom. Collecting $460M at the box office,...
- 2/2/2024
- by Sara Merican
- Deadline Film + TV
The Berlinale has revealed the lineup of its Co-Production Market and we’ve got some projects we’ll be keeping a close eye on. At the top of our interest list, we find Italian filmmaker Andrea Pallaoro, Stonewalling tandem Huang Ji and Ryuji Otsuka and Andreas Fontana who gave us Azor will benefit from the special Rotterdam-Berlinale Express backing for his next project: The Diplomats. 34 film projects from 27 countries will be pitching. Here they are:
Official Selection:
“Antonivka” (director: Kateryna Gornostai), Moon Man, Ukraine & Just a Moment, Lithuania
“Burnings” (director: Jerry Carlsson), Verket Produktion, Sweden
“Divorce During the War” (director: Andrius Blaževičius), M-Films, Lithuania
“Folk Play” (director: Mirjana Karanović), This and That Productions, Serbia
“Fragments of This Beauty” (director: Burak Çevik), Vayka Film, Turkey & Fol Films, Turkey
“The Girl With the Leica” (director: Alina Marazzi), Vivo Film, Italy
“Ich bin Marika” (director: Hajni Kis), Proton Cinema, Hungary
“Idda’s Breath” (director: Irene Dionisio), Kino Produzioni,...
Official Selection:
“Antonivka” (director: Kateryna Gornostai), Moon Man, Ukraine & Just a Moment, Lithuania
“Burnings” (director: Jerry Carlsson), Verket Produktion, Sweden
“Divorce During the War” (director: Andrius Blaževičius), M-Films, Lithuania
“Folk Play” (director: Mirjana Karanović), This and That Productions, Serbia
“Fragments of This Beauty” (director: Burak Çevik), Vayka Film, Turkey & Fol Films, Turkey
“The Girl With the Leica” (director: Alina Marazzi), Vivo Film, Italy
“Ich bin Marika” (director: Hajni Kis), Proton Cinema, Hungary
“Idda’s Breath” (director: Irene Dionisio), Kino Produzioni,...
- 1/9/2024
- by Eric Lavallée
- IONCINEMA.com
The Berlin Film Festival, which runs Feb. 15-25, has revealed the lineup of its Berlinale Co-Production Market.
Producers of 34 film projects from 27 countries will be pitching to potential financing and co-production partners at the 21st Berlinale Co-Production Market, which runs Feb. 17-21. Seventeen projects are directed by women. There were 318 submissions, a slight increase from last year.
Eighteen of the projects are already partly financed with budgets ranging between Euros 600,000 and Euros 5 million ($5.47 million). Among the directors whose new works are likely to spark interest are Ukrainian filmmakers Kateryna Gornostai, who won a Crystal Bear for “Stop-Zemlia” in 2021, and Antonio Lukich, the director of “Luxembourg, Luxembourg,” which played in Venice in 2022, Italy’s Andrea Pallaoro, Serbian director and actor Mirjana Karanović, and the Chinese-Japanese directing duo Huang Ji and Ryuji Otsuka.
The Berlinale Directors section features three brand-new projects by directors who have had films at the Berlinale in the past: “Alma” from Sally Potter,...
Producers of 34 film projects from 27 countries will be pitching to potential financing and co-production partners at the 21st Berlinale Co-Production Market, which runs Feb. 17-21. Seventeen projects are directed by women. There were 318 submissions, a slight increase from last year.
Eighteen of the projects are already partly financed with budgets ranging between Euros 600,000 and Euros 5 million ($5.47 million). Among the directors whose new works are likely to spark interest are Ukrainian filmmakers Kateryna Gornostai, who won a Crystal Bear for “Stop-Zemlia” in 2021, and Antonio Lukich, the director of “Luxembourg, Luxembourg,” which played in Venice in 2022, Italy’s Andrea Pallaoro, Serbian director and actor Mirjana Karanović, and the Chinese-Japanese directing duo Huang Ji and Ryuji Otsuka.
The Berlinale Directors section features three brand-new projects by directors who have had films at the Berlinale in the past: “Alma” from Sally Potter,...
- 1/9/2024
- by Leo Barraclough
- Variety Film + TV
Co-Production Market will support 34 feature film projects from around the world.
The 2024 Berlinale has selected 34 feature film projects for its Co-Production Market, including Sally Potter’s Alma.
The festival has also chosen 202 Berlinale Talents, and 14 titles for its Forum Special strand.
Scroll down for the full list of Co-Production Market projects
The 34 feature projects in the Co-Production Market hail from 27 countries, and were selected from 318 submissions – a slight increase on 2023.
Potter’s Alma follows a family battling survivor guilt and sibling rivalries while on an expedition to scatter the ashes of an archaeologist. It will be produced by Christopher Sheppard...
The 2024 Berlinale has selected 34 feature film projects for its Co-Production Market, including Sally Potter’s Alma.
The festival has also chosen 202 Berlinale Talents, and 14 titles for its Forum Special strand.
Scroll down for the full list of Co-Production Market projects
The 34 feature projects in the Co-Production Market hail from 27 countries, and were selected from 318 submissions – a slight increase on 2023.
Potter’s Alma follows a family battling survivor guilt and sibling rivalries while on an expedition to scatter the ashes of an archaeologist. It will be produced by Christopher Sheppard...
- 1/9/2024
- by Ben Dalton
- ScreenDaily
The Berlin Film Festival has unveiled the 34 projects, hailing from 27 countries and selected from 318 submissions, that will be showcased at its Berlinale Co-Production Market, running from February 17 to 21. (scroll down for full list)
The 18 projects in the official selection include upcoming works from Ukrainian directors Kateryna Gornostai (Stop-Zemila) and Antonio Lukich as well as Italian filmmaker Andrea Pallaoro (Monica), Turkey’s Burak Çevik (Hesitation Wound), Serb director and actor Mirjana Karanović (A Good Wife) and Chinese-Japanese directing duo Huang Ji and Ryuji Otsuka (Stonewalling).
The Official Selection projects are already partly financed and have budgets between 600,000 and five million euros.
The Berlinale Directors section showcasing new projects from festival habitués in the early funding stages includes Sally Potter’s upcoming production Alma about a family on an expedition to scatter the ashes of an archaeologist.
Two projects by Andreas Fontana and Fradique have also been selected as part of the Rotterdam-Berlinale Express initiative,...
The 18 projects in the official selection include upcoming works from Ukrainian directors Kateryna Gornostai (Stop-Zemila) and Antonio Lukich as well as Italian filmmaker Andrea Pallaoro (Monica), Turkey’s Burak Çevik (Hesitation Wound), Serb director and actor Mirjana Karanović (A Good Wife) and Chinese-Japanese directing duo Huang Ji and Ryuji Otsuka (Stonewalling).
The Official Selection projects are already partly financed and have budgets between 600,000 and five million euros.
The Berlinale Directors section showcasing new projects from festival habitués in the early funding stages includes Sally Potter’s upcoming production Alma about a family on an expedition to scatter the ashes of an archaeologist.
Two projects by Andreas Fontana and Fradique have also been selected as part of the Rotterdam-Berlinale Express initiative,...
- 1/9/2024
- by Melanie Goodfellow
- Deadline Film + TV
When East Meets West (Wemw), is the co-production forum of January’s Trieste Film Festival in Italy.
Fresh projects from Czeck director Barbora Chalupová, Greece’s Asimina Proedrou and Brazil’s Caru Alves de Souza are among the 18 features to be showcased at When East Meets West (Wemw), the Italian co-production forum of the Trieste Film Festival, taking place from January 21-24.
First-time feature directors Anna Llargués Lala Aliyeva, and Leo Černic will also be presenting projects at what will be the 14th edition of Wemw, to some 500 industry professionals.
Scroll down for the full list
“This year, we received an exceptional number of submissions,...
Fresh projects from Czeck director Barbora Chalupová, Greece’s Asimina Proedrou and Brazil’s Caru Alves de Souza are among the 18 features to be showcased at When East Meets West (Wemw), the Italian co-production forum of the Trieste Film Festival, taking place from January 21-24.
First-time feature directors Anna Llargués Lala Aliyeva, and Leo Černic will also be presenting projects at what will be the 14th edition of Wemw, to some 500 industry professionals.
Scroll down for the full list
“This year, we received an exceptional number of submissions,...
- 12/18/2023
- by Screen staff
- ScreenDaily
Taylor Swift has once again broken the VMAs record for the most video of the year wins, which she first set last year.
With the 2023 win for “Anti-Hero,” Swift has now won the top MTV honor awarded by fans four times. The pop icon first broke the record in 2022 with “All Too Well: The Short Film.” She had previously won it for 2015’s “Bad Blood (feat. Kendrick Lamar)” and 2019’s “You Need to Calm Down.”
Earlier in the night, Swift took home the Moon Man, the award given by the Video Music Awards, for best pop, song of the year and best direction. The latter two awards were given for Swift’s song “Anti-Hero.”
There are only three other artists who have taken home two video of the year awards in VMAs history: Beyoncé, Rihanna and Eminem. Beyoncé took home the honor for “Single Ladies” and “Formation;” Rihanna for “Umbrella...
With the 2023 win for “Anti-Hero,” Swift has now won the top MTV honor awarded by fans four times. The pop icon first broke the record in 2022 with “All Too Well: The Short Film.” She had previously won it for 2015’s “Bad Blood (feat. Kendrick Lamar)” and 2019’s “You Need to Calm Down.”
Earlier in the night, Swift took home the Moon Man, the award given by the Video Music Awards, for best pop, song of the year and best direction. The latter two awards were given for Swift’s song “Anti-Hero.”
There are only three other artists who have taken home two video of the year awards in VMAs history: Beyoncé, Rihanna and Eminem. Beyoncé took home the honor for “Single Ladies” and “Formation;” Rihanna for “Umbrella...
- 9/13/2023
- by Kayla Cobb
- The Wrap
Not everyone was pleased with the nominations for Best R&b during the 2023 VMAs. As Chris Brown’s name was called, “Only Murders in the Building” star Selena Gomez was caught on camera visibly sneering.
It was a fleeting moment, but a pointed one. Brown was nominated for “How Does It Feel,” his collaboration with Chlöe. Right as Brown’s name was mentioned by the announcer, Gomez’s face shifted from a neutrally pleasant smile to the above look. The Moon Man award ultimately went to Sza for “Shirt.”
Gomez has never publicly said anything negative about Brown. But the singer, songwriter and rapper doesn’t exactly have a spotless reputation in the industry. In 2009, Brown pled guilty to felony domestic assault charges for an incident with his then-girlfriend, Rihanna. That led to a sentencing of community labor, five years of probation and domestic violence counseling for Brown.
The restraining...
It was a fleeting moment, but a pointed one. Brown was nominated for “How Does It Feel,” his collaboration with Chlöe. Right as Brown’s name was mentioned by the announcer, Gomez’s face shifted from a neutrally pleasant smile to the above look. The Moon Man award ultimately went to Sza for “Shirt.”
Gomez has never publicly said anything negative about Brown. But the singer, songwriter and rapper doesn’t exactly have a spotless reputation in the industry. In 2009, Brown pled guilty to felony domestic assault charges for an incident with his then-girlfriend, Rihanna. That led to a sentencing of community labor, five years of probation and domestic violence counseling for Brown.
The restraining...
- 9/13/2023
- by Kayla Cobb
- The Wrap
Hungarian project ’My Mother, The Monster’, directed by Olivér Rudolf, one of the big winners.
Hungarian project My Mother, The Monster, directed by Olivér Rudolf, was the big winner at the CineLink awards in Sarajevo on Thursday (Aug 17) evening, carrying off the Eurimages Co-Production Development prize worth €20,000.
The project is being put together as a Hungarian-French co-production and is produced by Genovéva Petrovits and Barnabás Tóth-Just through Kino Alfa and Vrai Vrai Films. It’s about a mother in her 40s whose husband is cheating on her. Disappointed by life and suffering a mid-life crisis, she finds a new identity...
Hungarian project My Mother, The Monster, directed by Olivér Rudolf, was the big winner at the CineLink awards in Sarajevo on Thursday (Aug 17) evening, carrying off the Eurimages Co-Production Development prize worth €20,000.
The project is being put together as a Hungarian-French co-production and is produced by Genovéva Petrovits and Barnabás Tóth-Just through Kino Alfa and Vrai Vrai Films. It’s about a mother in her 40s whose husband is cheating on her. Disappointed by life and suffering a mid-life crisis, she finds a new identity...
- 8/18/2023
- by Geoffrey Macnab
- ScreenDaily
‘Creation Of The Gods I: Kingdom Of Storms’ opened with $42.6m.
‘Barbie’ opened in fifth place at the China box office, unable to match the number one success it has achieved in several other key international territories around the world.
Released by Warner Bros, the US feature starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling took just $8.2m across the three-day weekend from July 21, according to consultancy firm Artisan Gateway.
Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer, which Universal Pictures opened in numerous territories globally over the weekend, has secured a China release but no date has yet been assigned by regulators meaning a launch...
‘Barbie’ opened in fifth place at the China box office, unable to match the number one success it has achieved in several other key international territories around the world.
Released by Warner Bros, the US feature starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling took just $8.2m across the three-day weekend from July 21, according to consultancy firm Artisan Gateway.
Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer, which Universal Pictures opened in numerous territories globally over the weekend, has secured a China release but no date has yet been assigned by regulators meaning a launch...
- 7/24/2023
- by Michael Rosser
- ScreenDaily
Barbie‘s phenomenal box office opening in the U.S. wasn’t matched in China — not by a long shot.
The Greta Gerwig-directed Warner Bros. blockbuster opened to just $8 million in China, finishing the weekend in fifth place behind a bunch of local Chinese hits. In North America, the film debuted to a record-setting $155 million.
The soft start for Barbie continues a trend of Hollywood films earning much less in China than they once did. Tom Cruise’s Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One badly lost its opening in China the weekend prior with a third-place start behind a pair of Chinese holdovers.
Word of mouth for Barbie has been strong, despite the tepid sales. Its social scores are 9.4 on Maoyan, 9.3 on Tao Piao Piao and 8.6 on Douban. On Monday, the good buzz appeared to be giving Barbie a modest boost, with its sales ranking climbing into third place for the day.
The Greta Gerwig-directed Warner Bros. blockbuster opened to just $8 million in China, finishing the weekend in fifth place behind a bunch of local Chinese hits. In North America, the film debuted to a record-setting $155 million.
The soft start for Barbie continues a trend of Hollywood films earning much less in China than they once did. Tom Cruise’s Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One badly lost its opening in China the weekend prior with a third-place start behind a pair of Chinese holdovers.
Word of mouth for Barbie has been strong, despite the tepid sales. Its social scores are 9.4 on Maoyan, 9.3 on Tao Piao Piao and 8.6 on Douban. On Monday, the good buzz appeared to be giving Barbie a modest boost, with its sales ranking climbing into third place for the day.
- 7/24/2023
- by Patrick Brzeski
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
While “Barbie” was romping to box office records in North American and scoring strongly in many international territories, the pink phenomenon could muster only fifth place in China, the world’s second largest movie market, on its opening weekend.
“Barbie” managed $8.2 million in its opening three days, according to data from consultancy firm Artisan Gateway.
Local box office sources show the film trapped in that position on all three days of the weekend session, as the locally-produced titles jostled for leadership and swapped positions. Somewhat encouragingly, the daily score for “Barbie” had increased by Sunday as it was given more screening sessions by Chinese exhibitors.
“Barbie” joins a growing list of Hollywood films that have disappointed at the mainland Chinese box office this year. Others include “The Little Mermaid,” “Indiana Jones” and “Fast X.”
Hollywood titles are facing fewer structural impediments in China (import and certification delays) that they did in recent years.
“Barbie” managed $8.2 million in its opening three days, according to data from consultancy firm Artisan Gateway.
Local box office sources show the film trapped in that position on all three days of the weekend session, as the locally-produced titles jostled for leadership and swapped positions. Somewhat encouragingly, the daily score for “Barbie” had increased by Sunday as it was given more screening sessions by Chinese exhibitors.
“Barbie” joins a growing list of Hollywood films that have disappointed at the mainland Chinese box office this year. Others include “The Little Mermaid,” “Indiana Jones” and “Fast X.”
Hollywood titles are facing fewer structural impediments in China (import and certification delays) that they did in recent years.
- 7/24/2023
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
Kid Cudi has canceled his upcoming Moon Man’s Landing festival in Cleveland this summer after hearing fans’ feedback about preferring an outdoor summer fest as opposed to an arena.
Two weeks ago, the Cleveland rapper announced plans to bring back his Moon Man’s Landing fest with a lineup that included Lil Uzi Vert, Coi Leray, $uicide Boy$, and more along with Cudi’s headlining set. The festival was scheduled for August 19 at the city’s Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse arena. However, as Cudi wrote on Twitter Tuesday, the fans “weren’t feelin it.
Two weeks ago, the Cleveland rapper announced plans to bring back his Moon Man’s Landing fest with a lineup that included Lil Uzi Vert, Coi Leray, $uicide Boy$, and more along with Cudi’s headlining set. The festival was scheduled for August 19 at the city’s Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse arena. However, as Cudi wrote on Twitter Tuesday, the fans “weren’t feelin it.
- 6/28/2023
- by Daniel Kreps
- Rollingstone.com
The long-in-development, at least from a post-production point-of-view, action comedy “Hidden Strike” has its first trailer, which you can watch above. That means the Jackie Chan/John Cena team-up flick, which was shot back in 2018, may finally reach cinemas or at least VOD. The film, initially titled “Snafu,” became a consistent victim of changing circumstances but external and internal.
The film was green-lit and shot amid a resurgence specifically in China for Jackie Chan-fronted actioners like “Kung Fu Yoga” and “Skiptrace.” The latter was also a (partially) English-language romp starring Johnny Knoxville in a clear attempt to recapture some of that “Rush Hour” or “Shanghai Knights” magic from the late 1990s and early 2000s.
“Skiptrace” earned $131 million in 2016 while the former globe-trotting adventure film “Kung Fu Yoga” earned $256 million in 2017. “Since then, “The Climbers” earned $174 million in 2019, but Covid obviously put a damper on such robust earnings for a moment.
The film was green-lit and shot amid a resurgence specifically in China for Jackie Chan-fronted actioners like “Kung Fu Yoga” and “Skiptrace.” The latter was also a (partially) English-language romp starring Johnny Knoxville in a clear attempt to recapture some of that “Rush Hour” or “Shanghai Knights” magic from the late 1990s and early 2000s.
“Skiptrace” earned $131 million in 2016 while the former globe-trotting adventure film “Kung Fu Yoga” earned $256 million in 2017. “Since then, “The Climbers” earned $174 million in 2019, but Covid obviously put a damper on such robust earnings for a moment.
- 5/31/2023
- by Scott Mendelson
- The Wrap
Warner Bros. Discovery’s potential summer sleeper “The Meg 2: Trench” dropped its first teaser trailer, essentially the same mouth-watering footage audiences saw at last month’s CinemaCon presentation.
As noted last month, the trailer’s tagline is “They’re back… for seconds,” mimicking the refreshingly cheeky marketing that helped turn “The Meg” into a surprise super-smash. The trailer opens with two land-bound prehistoric monsters eating a large bug, with onscreen text warning that for 65 million years one species ruled the world. The answer is not the tyrannosaurus rex, but rather a megalodon which is introduced eating a T-rex.
That was actually the prologue of Steve Alton’s first novel which didn’t make it into the first movie. One may recall that “The Lost World: Jurassic Park” and “Jurassic Park III” included setpieces and ideas from Michael Crichton’s “Jurassic Park” novel that didn’t make it into Steven Spielberg’s first dino blockbuster.
As noted last month, the trailer’s tagline is “They’re back… for seconds,” mimicking the refreshingly cheeky marketing that helped turn “The Meg” into a surprise super-smash. The trailer opens with two land-bound prehistoric monsters eating a large bug, with onscreen text warning that for 65 million years one species ruled the world. The answer is not the tyrannosaurus rex, but rather a megalodon which is introduced eating a T-rex.
That was actually the prologue of Steve Alton’s first novel which didn’t make it into the first movie. One may recall that “The Lost World: Jurassic Park” and “Jurassic Park III” included setpieces and ideas from Michael Crichton’s “Jurassic Park” novel that didn’t make it into Steven Spielberg’s first dino blockbuster.
- 5/8/2023
- by Scott Mendelson
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Beijing-based world sales and multi-territory distribution outfit Tiger Pictures Entertainment has acquired international rights to Chinese comedy Godspeed, which is currently topping China’s May Day holiday box office.
Written and directed by Yi Xiaoxing (Bath Buddy), the film revolves around a young man who goes on a road trip with the parents of his fiancée. Chinese comedians Ma Li (Moon Man) and Qiao Shan head the cast.
The film was released in China on April 28 in time for the May Day holidays (April 29-May 3), one of the country’s four key box office periods, along with Chinese New Year, summer and the National Day holidays in October. At the time of writing, the film was topping the China box office, according to online ticketing platform Maoyan, and had a cumulative gross of $55M (RMB380M).
Founded by Beijing-based film executive Owen Young, Tiger Pictures has built...
Written and directed by Yi Xiaoxing (Bath Buddy), the film revolves around a young man who goes on a road trip with the parents of his fiancée. Chinese comedians Ma Li (Moon Man) and Qiao Shan head the cast.
The film was released in China on April 28 in time for the May Day holidays (April 29-May 3), one of the country’s four key box office periods, along with Chinese New Year, summer and the National Day holidays in October. At the time of writing, the film was topping the China box office, according to online ticketing platform Maoyan, and had a cumulative gross of $55M (RMB380M).
Founded by Beijing-based film executive Owen Young, Tiger Pictures has built...
- 5/2/2023
- by Liz Shackleton
- Deadline Film + TV
Murder, treachery and political intrigue are the juicy ingredients of Zhang Yimou’s “Full River Red,” an entertaining if overlong mystery-comedy set in the narrow passageways and dark chambers of a Song dynasty military compound in 1146. With a twist-packed plot to match its labyrinthine location, Zhang’s fast-paced film motors along nicely as an engaging “Knives Out”-style whodunnit before stumbling a little in the protracted final act. A Lunar New Year smash hit in China, “Full River Red” will be released on 150 North American screens by specialty distributor Niu Vision Media on March 17.
The biggest commercial success of Zhang’s distinguished 35-year career, “Full River Red” has already grossed a whopping $671 million at home since Jan. 22. The 157-minute blockbuster continues the string of hits he’s delivered since big-budget international co-production misfire “The Great Wall” in 2016. Much less ornately decorated and colorfully photographed than Zhang’s famous wuxia epics...
The biggest commercial success of Zhang’s distinguished 35-year career, “Full River Red” has already grossed a whopping $671 million at home since Jan. 22. The 157-minute blockbuster continues the string of hits he’s delivered since big-budget international co-production misfire “The Great Wall” in 2016. Much less ornately decorated and colorfully photographed than Zhang’s famous wuxia epics...
- 3/14/2023
- by Richard Kuipers
- Variety Film + TV
One of the most infamous moments in award show history came during the 2009 edition of the MTV Video Music Awards, when Kanye West jumped onstage while Taylor Swift was accepting an award and delivered a rant declaring that Swift didn’t deserve her win.
Taylor Lautner, who was dating Swift at the time, recalled the incident during a recent edition of his podcast “The Squeeze”, in which he appears alongside wife Taylor Dome.
Read More: Kanye West Says God Led Him To Crash Taylor Swift’s Award Presentation At The 2009 VMAs
At one point in the podcast, Dome asked him which career moment he’d enjoy reliving.
“Probably the 2009 VMAs when I presented the award to Taylor,” he said, reminding that he was onstage as well after presenting Swift with her award for Best Female Video.
“ was unaware that the Kanye thing was not a skit,” the “Twilight” star admitted....
Taylor Lautner, who was dating Swift at the time, recalled the incident during a recent edition of his podcast “The Squeeze”, in which he appears alongside wife Taylor Dome.
Read More: Kanye West Says God Led Him To Crash Taylor Swift’s Award Presentation At The 2009 VMAs
At one point in the podcast, Dome asked him which career moment he’d enjoy reliving.
“Probably the 2009 VMAs when I presented the award to Taylor,” he said, reminding that he was onstage as well after presenting Swift with her award for Best Female Video.
“ was unaware that the Kanye thing was not a skit,” the “Twilight” star admitted....
- 2/2/2023
- by Brent Furdyk
- ET Canada
Oscar nominations were announced Jan. 24 and in the best-picture race, voters have come up with the most wide-ranging lineup in decades, full of populist choices.
The 10 films nominated for Oscar’s top prize represent a cross-section of blockbusters, specialty films, indies and mid-range Hollywood movies. There is also a healthy mix of long-established studios, streamers and specialty companies. There’s one film not in the English language, one co-directed by an Asian American (and starring a mostly Asian American cast) and one by a woman.
The breadth of the list is a sharp contrast to most best picture slates of the past two decades.
Best picture nominations for the 95th annual Academy Awards also offer several distinctions, including two sequels nominated in one year, which is a first; and two contenders that are in the year’s worldwide top 10 at the B.O., the first time that’s happened since...
The 10 films nominated for Oscar’s top prize represent a cross-section of blockbusters, specialty films, indies and mid-range Hollywood movies. There is also a healthy mix of long-established studios, streamers and specialty companies. There’s one film not in the English language, one co-directed by an Asian American (and starring a mostly Asian American cast) and one by a woman.
The breadth of the list is a sharp contrast to most best picture slates of the past two decades.
Best picture nominations for the 95th annual Academy Awards also offer several distinctions, including two sequels nominated in one year, which is a first; and two contenders that are in the year’s worldwide top 10 at the B.O., the first time that’s happened since...
- 1/27/2023
- by Tim Gray
- Variety Film + TV
Titles include ‘Full River Red’, ‘Hidden Blade’ and ‘Wandering Earth 2’.
Wandering Earth 2, Full River Red and Hidden Blade are leading the box office race for Chinese New Year since tickets went on sale last weekend, with stars Shen Teng, Tony Leung Chiu-Wai and Wu Jing set to slug it out in cinemas across China.
Seven local films have been cleared for release during the highly coveted and crowded festive season, with all but one opening on January 22, the first day of the lunar new year. Since ticket sales began on Saturday (January 14), the total presale is approaching 51.6m (RMB350m) at time of press,...
Wandering Earth 2, Full River Red and Hidden Blade are leading the box office race for Chinese New Year since tickets went on sale last weekend, with stars Shen Teng, Tony Leung Chiu-Wai and Wu Jing set to slug it out in cinemas across China.
Seven local films have been cleared for release during the highly coveted and crowded festive season, with all but one opening on January 22, the first day of the lunar new year. Since ticket sales began on Saturday (January 14), the total presale is approaching 51.6m (RMB350m) at time of press,...
- 1/19/2023
- by Silvia Wong
- ScreenDaily
Chinese film industry had begun recovery in 2021 but new waves stalled momentum.
The Covid pandemic has continued to take its toll on China’s theatrical business with the box office down an estimated 36.4 last year, reaching 4.4bn (RMB30bn) in 2022.
The drop followed a twofold year-on-year increase in 2021 and was down 53.2 on pre-pandemic 2019, according to an annual report from the Maoyan Research Institute.
The report noted that the Chinese film industry was recovering in 2021 following the initial outbreak of Covid, but that fresh waves of the virus stalled the momentum. With on-and-off large-scale cinema closures, several high-profile titles were unable to release as scheduled,...
The Covid pandemic has continued to take its toll on China’s theatrical business with the box office down an estimated 36.4 last year, reaching 4.4bn (RMB30bn) in 2022.
The drop followed a twofold year-on-year increase in 2021 and was down 53.2 on pre-pandemic 2019, according to an annual report from the Maoyan Research Institute.
The report noted that the Chinese film industry was recovering in 2021 following the initial outbreak of Covid, but that fresh waves of the virus stalled the momentum. With on-and-off large-scale cinema closures, several high-profile titles were unable to release as scheduled,...
- 1/9/2023
- by Silvia Wong
- ScreenDaily
Comedy drama film “Give Me Five” held on to the top spot at the mainland Chinese box office with a weekend score of just 7.4 million (RMB50.8 million).
The film is the story of a young man who is helping his father rediscover his lost memories. As he does so, he is transported back in time and accidentally alters his parent’s pasts. That means he must reunite the pair or risk never being born. It stars Ma Li Chang Yuan and Wei Xiang and is directed by Zhang Luan.
The film was released a week ago in time for the mid-autumn festival and scored 21.3 million in its opening weekend, according to data from consultancy Artisan Gateway. But without the holiday boost, the film slumped by 65. It now has a cumulative of 36.5 million after ten days of a release handled by Wanda Pictures.
Light Chaser’s animated “New Gods: Yang Jian” again took second place,...
The film is the story of a young man who is helping his father rediscover his lost memories. As he does so, he is transported back in time and accidentally alters his parent’s pasts. That means he must reunite the pair or risk never being born. It stars Ma Li Chang Yuan and Wei Xiang and is directed by Zhang Luan.
The film was released a week ago in time for the mid-autumn festival and scored 21.3 million in its opening weekend, according to data from consultancy Artisan Gateway. But without the holiday boost, the film slumped by 65. It now has a cumulative of 36.5 million after ten days of a release handled by Wanda Pictures.
Light Chaser’s animated “New Gods: Yang Jian” again took second place,...
- 9/19/2022
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
In the new Discovery+ documentary, Johnny vs Amber: The US Trial, Johnny Depp’s lawyers are shown calling Kate Moss to persuade her to testify.
The documentary, released on Discovery+ on Tuesday (20 September), tells the inside story of the trial that was streamed around the world and watched by millions on social media.
Depp sued Heard for 50m (£40.1m) for allegedly implying he abused her in a 2018 Washington Post op-ed. Although she didn’t name him, he claimed that the article impacted his ability to work.
Heard had filed a countersuit accusing Depp of allegedly orchestrating a “smear campaign” against her and describing his own lawsuit as a continuation of “abuse and harassment”.
The new docuseries includes intimate access to Depp’s lawyers, legal experts and journalists, with the first of the two episodes investigating Depp’s side of the story.
At one point, Depp’s team – including Camille Vasquez – are shown calling Moss,...
The documentary, released on Discovery+ on Tuesday (20 September), tells the inside story of the trial that was streamed around the world and watched by millions on social media.
Depp sued Heard for 50m (£40.1m) for allegedly implying he abused her in a 2018 Washington Post op-ed. Although she didn’t name him, he claimed that the article impacted his ability to work.
Heard had filed a countersuit accusing Depp of allegedly orchestrating a “smear campaign” against her and describing his own lawsuit as a continuation of “abuse and harassment”.
The new docuseries includes intimate access to Depp’s lawyers, legal experts and journalists, with the first of the two episodes investigating Depp’s side of the story.
At one point, Depp’s team – including Camille Vasquez – are shown calling Moss,...
- 9/16/2022
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - TV
In the new Discovery+ documentary, Johnny vs Amber: The US Trial, Johnny Depp’s lawyers are shown calling Kate Moss to persuade her to testify.
The documentary, released on Discovery+ on Tuesday (20 September), tells the inside story of the trial that was streamed around the world and watched by millions on social media.
Depp sued Heard for 50m (£40.1m) for allegedly implying he abused her in a 2018 Washington Post op-ed. Although she didn’t name him, he claimed that the article impacted his ability to work.
Heard had filed a countersuit accusing Depp of allegedly orchestrating a “smear campaign” against her and describing his own lawsuit as a continuation of “abuse and harassment”.
The new docuseries includes intimate access to Depp’s lawyers, legal experts and journalists, with the first of the two episodes investigating Depp’s side of the story.
At one point, Depp’s team – including Camille Vasquez – are shown calling Moss,...
The documentary, released on Discovery+ on Tuesday (20 September), tells the inside story of the trial that was streamed around the world and watched by millions on social media.
Depp sued Heard for 50m (£40.1m) for allegedly implying he abused her in a 2018 Washington Post op-ed. Although she didn’t name him, he claimed that the article impacted his ability to work.
Heard had filed a countersuit accusing Depp of allegedly orchestrating a “smear campaign” against her and describing his own lawsuit as a continuation of “abuse and harassment”.
The new docuseries includes intimate access to Depp’s lawyers, legal experts and journalists, with the first of the two episodes investigating Depp’s side of the story.
At one point, Depp’s team – including Camille Vasquez – are shown calling Moss,...
- 9/15/2022
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - TV
Beijing-based Tiger Pictures Entertainment has acquired worldwide distribution rights outside of mainland China for hit sci-fi comedy film “Moon Man.“
The film, which has collected some 430 million at the Chinese box office to date, tells the story of “the last human in the universe” as an astronaut finds himself stranded on the moon after an asteroid wipes out life on earth. It is directed by Zhang Chiyu, who previously directed 2017 sports comedy hit “Never Say Die.” It was produced by Mahua FunAge, a consistently successful comedy production firm.
FunAge’s “Goodbye Mr. Loser” and “Never Say Die” starred Shen Teng and Ma Li and “Moon Man” brings together the comedy duo once again.
Tiger Pictures Entertainment previously handled the worldwide release of another comedy hit film “Hi Mom” in all major markets with a prominent Chinese diaspora, including North America, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia and Cambodia as well Hong Kong and Macau Sar.
The film, which has collected some 430 million at the Chinese box office to date, tells the story of “the last human in the universe” as an astronaut finds himself stranded on the moon after an asteroid wipes out life on earth. It is directed by Zhang Chiyu, who previously directed 2017 sports comedy hit “Never Say Die.” It was produced by Mahua FunAge, a consistently successful comedy production firm.
FunAge’s “Goodbye Mr. Loser” and “Never Say Die” starred Shen Teng and Ma Li and “Moon Man” brings together the comedy duo once again.
Tiger Pictures Entertainment previously handled the worldwide release of another comedy hit film “Hi Mom” in all major markets with a prominent Chinese diaspora, including North America, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia and Cambodia as well Hong Kong and Macau Sar.
- 9/13/2022
- by Naman Ramachandran and Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
Art-house title “Return to Dust” was a surprise weekend winner, topping the mainland China box office in its ninth weekend of release.
The astonishing feat occurred on an otherwise depressed weekend in which China’s cinema box office dipped to a three-month low. This reflected the summer season winding to an end and anti-covid measures once again forcing major Chinese cities into retreat.
Data from consultancy Artisan Gateway showed “Return” grossing 5.3 million (RMB36.2 million) between Friday and Sunday. Those three days accounted for nearly half of the 12.7 million (RMB87.4 million) cumulative total it has earned since release on July 8, 2022.
Directed by Li Ruijun, the film tells the tale of two middle-aged adults who agree to an arranged marriage in a rural town where state-ordered demolition is under way. It premiered in competition at the Berlin festival in February this year and subsequently played at the Udine and Hong Kong festivals.
The astonishing feat occurred on an otherwise depressed weekend in which China’s cinema box office dipped to a three-month low. This reflected the summer season winding to an end and anti-covid measures once again forcing major Chinese cities into retreat.
Data from consultancy Artisan Gateway showed “Return” grossing 5.3 million (RMB36.2 million) between Friday and Sunday. Those three days accounted for nearly half of the 12.7 million (RMB87.4 million) cumulative total it has earned since release on July 8, 2022.
Directed by Li Ruijun, the film tells the tale of two middle-aged adults who agree to an arranged marriage in a rural town where state-ordered demolition is under way. It premiered in competition at the Berlin festival in February this year and subsequently played at the Udine and Hong Kong festivals.
- 9/5/2022
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
After an unexpectedly robust summer at the international box office, there is a near-term question mark about what will happen next: Will recovery stall due to a paucity of Hollywood tentpole movies? Or will international theatrical decouple and find new drivers to maintain the momentum?
The good news is that most of the international market’s top territories are now fully open and operating without significant restrictions on seating capacity. These include the U.K. and Ireland, Japan, France, Germany, Spain, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico and Brazil. The smaller number of territories still laboring under restrictions nevertheless include some valuable ones: China, Turkey, Argentina, Hong Kong and Russia.
Hollywood movies that have driven the recent international recovery include “Jurassic World Dominion” (611 million internationally); “Minions: The Rise of Gru” (486 million); “Thor: Love and Thunder” (405 million); and “Elvis” (126 million).
“Top Gun: Maverick,” with 1.4 billion worldwide to date, including 720 million internationally,...
The good news is that most of the international market’s top territories are now fully open and operating without significant restrictions on seating capacity. These include the U.K. and Ireland, Japan, France, Germany, Spain, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico and Brazil. The smaller number of territories still laboring under restrictions nevertheless include some valuable ones: China, Turkey, Argentina, Hong Kong and Russia.
Hollywood movies that have driven the recent international recovery include “Jurassic World Dominion” (611 million internationally); “Minions: The Rise of Gru” (486 million); “Thor: Love and Thunder” (405 million); and “Elvis” (126 million).
“Top Gun: Maverick,” with 1.4 billion worldwide to date, including 720 million internationally,...
- 9/2/2022
- by Elsa Keslassy and Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
Måneskin fans were left disappointed after MTV appeared to censor most of the band’s 2022 Video Music Awards performance.
The Italian glam rock band – Damiano David, Victoria De Angelis, Thomas Raggi and Ethan Torchio – performed at the VMAs for the first time on Sunday 28 August.
The band’s frontman David started off the performance wearing backless chaps for their live rendition of their hit track “Supermodel”.
Soon after that, viewers noticed the network shifted to wide camera shots of the New Jersey venue, rather than close-up shots of the band’s performance.
“I waited all night to watch Måneskin on #VMAs to have MTV show two seconds of the actual performance,” one person complained. “Why was it censored?”
Another person added: “I can’t believe MTV censored Måneskin. Wtf they had people twerking all night, a giant twerking animation, people fake smoking a giant blunt but a man with his ass out is censured?...
The Italian glam rock band – Damiano David, Victoria De Angelis, Thomas Raggi and Ethan Torchio – performed at the VMAs for the first time on Sunday 28 August.
The band’s frontman David started off the performance wearing backless chaps for their live rendition of their hit track “Supermodel”.
Soon after that, viewers noticed the network shifted to wide camera shots of the New Jersey venue, rather than close-up shots of the band’s performance.
“I waited all night to watch Måneskin on #VMAs to have MTV show two seconds of the actual performance,” one person complained. “Why was it censored?”
Another person added: “I can’t believe MTV censored Måneskin. Wtf they had people twerking all night, a giant twerking animation, people fake smoking a giant blunt but a man with his ass out is censured?...
- 8/29/2022
- by Peony Hirwani
- The Independent - Music
Bad Bunny fans are all “fired up” as the rapper kissed one of his backing dancers during his 2022 MTV Video Music Awards live performance.
The 28-year-old Puerto Rican rapper, who won the Album of the Year award, shared a passionate kiss with one of the dancers on stage during his remote performance from Yankee Stadium.
“Bad Bunny kissing a guy at the VMAs. That’s it. That’s the f***ing tweet. We have a chance boys!!!” one person wrote.
Another person added: “Bad Bunny kissing a man during his performance is the moment the world needed.”
Many fans also said the kiss was “hot as f***”.
One person wrote: “Bad Bunny kissing a guy tonight made my whole mf year. That man is so sexy and confident.”
Bunny gave a remote performance from his World’s Hottest Tour stop at New York’s Yankee Stadium for the VMAs.
The...
The 28-year-old Puerto Rican rapper, who won the Album of the Year award, shared a passionate kiss with one of the dancers on stage during his remote performance from Yankee Stadium.
“Bad Bunny kissing a guy at the VMAs. That’s it. That’s the f***ing tweet. We have a chance boys!!!” one person wrote.
Another person added: “Bad Bunny kissing a man during his performance is the moment the world needed.”
Many fans also said the kiss was “hot as f***”.
One person wrote: “Bad Bunny kissing a guy tonight made my whole mf year. That man is so sexy and confident.”
Bunny gave a remote performance from his World’s Hottest Tour stop at New York’s Yankee Stadium for the VMAs.
The...
- 8/29/2022
- by Peony Hirwani
- The Independent - Music
Chinese animation film “New Gods: Yang Jian” was the top film at the mainland China box office for the second successive weekend.
Unchallenged by major new releases, the film earned 13.0 (RMB88.3 million) between Friday and Sunday, according to data from consultancy firm Artisan Gateway. That was a drop of 34 compared with its 19.8 million opening session.
Some 1.5 million of the weekend total was scored from the film’s outing on Imax screens.
After ten days on release “Yang Jian” has a cumulative total of 43.7 million (RMB297 million). Of that, its Imax total is now 4 million.
“New Gods: Yang Jian” is a continuation of the “New Gods” franchise from Light Chaser Animation, the studio behind 2021 hit “New Gods: Nezha Reborn” and 2019’s “White Snake.” The new film revolves around Yang Jian, a mythological figure from the Ming Dynasty and who was featured in historical novel “The Investiture of the Gods.”
Previous chart...
Unchallenged by major new releases, the film earned 13.0 (RMB88.3 million) between Friday and Sunday, according to data from consultancy firm Artisan Gateway. That was a drop of 34 compared with its 19.8 million opening session.
Some 1.5 million of the weekend total was scored from the film’s outing on Imax screens.
After ten days on release “Yang Jian” has a cumulative total of 43.7 million (RMB297 million). Of that, its Imax total is now 4 million.
“New Gods: Yang Jian” is a continuation of the “New Gods” franchise from Light Chaser Animation, the studio behind 2021 hit “New Gods: Nezha Reborn” and 2019’s “White Snake.” The new film revolves around Yang Jian, a mythological figure from the Ming Dynasty and who was featured in historical novel “The Investiture of the Gods.”
Previous chart...
- 8/29/2022
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
Billy Eichner used his time on stage at the 2022 MTV VMAs to call out “all the homophobes on the Supreme Court”.
While introducing a live performance from Panic! At The Disco, Eichner plugged his upcoming gay rom-com, Bros.
“We need to show all the homophobes like Clarence Thomas and all the homophobes on the Supreme Court that we want gay love stories and we support LGBTQ people,” the comedian told the crowd at at New Jersey’s Prudential Stadium.
Thomas was among the five justices who voted to overturn the precedent established by Roe v Wade in 1973, making abortion nearly impossible for pregnant people in the 25 states with partial or total bans on the procedure.
He also authored a concurring opinion suggesting the court should revisit other precedents, including those entitling Americans access to same-sex marriage and same-sex relationships.
More than a million signatures have been registered to a petition...
While introducing a live performance from Panic! At The Disco, Eichner plugged his upcoming gay rom-com, Bros.
“We need to show all the homophobes like Clarence Thomas and all the homophobes on the Supreme Court that we want gay love stories and we support LGBTQ people,” the comedian told the crowd at at New Jersey’s Prudential Stadium.
Thomas was among the five justices who voted to overturn the precedent established by Roe v Wade in 1973, making abortion nearly impossible for pregnant people in the 25 states with partial or total bans on the procedure.
He also authored a concurring opinion suggesting the court should revisit other precedents, including those entitling Americans access to same-sex marriage and same-sex relationships.
More than a million signatures have been registered to a petition...
- 8/29/2022
- by Tom Murray
- The Independent - Music
Brazilian performer Anitta made history with her nomination, performance and win at MTV’s 2022 VMAs on Sunday (28 August).
The “Envolver” singer was the first person from her nation to do any of the above at the longrunning US awards ceremony.
In her speech after winning the award for Best Latin, Anitta said: “For whoever doesn’t know this, tonight it’s history, it’s the first time of Brazil here.”
The singer added: “Tonight I performed here a rhythm that for many years in my country was considered a crime; I was born and raised in the ghetto of Brazil.”
Anitta, who was born in Rio de Janeiro, was likely referring to her style of funk carioca, also known as favela funk.
In the 1990s, bills were passed in Rio seeking to investigate funk performers and ban events, which the government saw as politically anti-establishment.
“The term ‘funkeiro’ became synonymous with ‘criminal’ in the media,...
The “Envolver” singer was the first person from her nation to do any of the above at the longrunning US awards ceremony.
In her speech after winning the award for Best Latin, Anitta said: “For whoever doesn’t know this, tonight it’s history, it’s the first time of Brazil here.”
The singer added: “Tonight I performed here a rhythm that for many years in my country was considered a crime; I was born and raised in the ghetto of Brazil.”
Anitta, who was born in Rio de Janeiro, was likely referring to her style of funk carioca, also known as favela funk.
In the 1990s, bills were passed in Rio seeking to investigate funk performers and ban events, which the government saw as politically anti-establishment.
“The term ‘funkeiro’ became synonymous with ‘criminal’ in the media,...
- 8/29/2022
- by Tom Murray
- The Independent - Music
Lizzo has a message for the press.
During her 2022 MTV VMAs acceptance speech for the Video for Good Award, the 34-year-old singer called out “the b*tches that got something to say about me in the press”.
“You know what? I’m gonna say nothing. Maybe something like ‘Lizzo why don’t you clap back?’” she said. “Because b*itch, I’m winning h*e.
“This b*itch is winning, h*e,” Lizzo then yelled out of excitement.
This statement came after the “Good as Hell” singer performed the first two official singles from her 2022 album Special.
This isn’t the first time Lizzo has taken a swipe at the press.
In 2019, when Pitchfork published a 6.5 star review for her album Cuz I Love You, the singer wrote in a now-deleted tweet: “People Who ‘Review’ Albums And Don’T Make Music Themselves Should Be Unemployed.”
Lizzo is nominated for five...
During her 2022 MTV VMAs acceptance speech for the Video for Good Award, the 34-year-old singer called out “the b*tches that got something to say about me in the press”.
“You know what? I’m gonna say nothing. Maybe something like ‘Lizzo why don’t you clap back?’” she said. “Because b*itch, I’m winning h*e.
“This b*itch is winning, h*e,” Lizzo then yelled out of excitement.
This statement came after the “Good as Hell” singer performed the first two official singles from her 2022 album Special.
This isn’t the first time Lizzo has taken a swipe at the press.
In 2019, when Pitchfork published a 6.5 star review for her album Cuz I Love You, the singer wrote in a now-deleted tweet: “People Who ‘Review’ Albums And Don’T Make Music Themselves Should Be Unemployed.”
Lizzo is nominated for five...
- 8/29/2022
- by Peony Hirwani
- The Independent - Music
Johnny Depp made a surprise appearance at the MTV Video Music Awards 2022.
Right after Lizzo’s performance at the beginning of the star-studded ceremony, the 59-year-old actor made a quick appearance as the face of the Moonman trophy.
“I just want you guys to know I’m available for birthdays, bat mitzvahs, weddings, wakes - any old thing you need,” said Depp in the brief clip, which saw his face imposed on top of the Moonman helmet.
This week, it was reported that Depp would make a “comeback” appearance at the VMAs.
A source cited as “close” to Depp told The New York Post that the actor was going to make an appearance via video at the award show.
The source correctly claimed that Depp would appear as the silver astronaut statue awarded to VMA winners.
Depp is in the midst of returning to public life after winning his multi-million...
Right after Lizzo’s performance at the beginning of the star-studded ceremony, the 59-year-old actor made a quick appearance as the face of the Moonman trophy.
“I just want you guys to know I’m available for birthdays, bat mitzvahs, weddings, wakes - any old thing you need,” said Depp in the brief clip, which saw his face imposed on top of the Moonman helmet.
This week, it was reported that Depp would make a “comeback” appearance at the VMAs.
A source cited as “close” to Depp told The New York Post that the actor was going to make an appearance via video at the award show.
The source correctly claimed that Depp would appear as the silver astronaut statue awarded to VMA winners.
Depp is in the midst of returning to public life after winning his multi-million...
- 8/29/2022
- by Peony Hirwani
- The Independent - Music
Harry Styles failed to attend the 2022 MTV Video Music Awards due to a clashing Love On Tour show at the famous Madison Square Garden venue in New York.
The 28-year-old singer, who won the Album of the Year award for Harry’s House, made a virtual appearance at the star-studded ceremony to thank his fans.
“I obviously wouldn’t be holding this if it wasn’t for you,” Styles said in his acceptance speech. “I’m sorry I can’t be there with you tonight. I’m about to go on stage just down the road.”
The VMAs are taking place in nearby New Jersey. “Hope you’re having a wonderful evening and thank you so much,” finished Styles.
Styles, along with Doja Cat and Jack Harlow, led the nominations for the VMAs with eight nods, including Song of the Summer, Video of the Year, Artist of the Year, and Best Pop.
The 28-year-old singer, who won the Album of the Year award for Harry’s House, made a virtual appearance at the star-studded ceremony to thank his fans.
“I obviously wouldn’t be holding this if it wasn’t for you,” Styles said in his acceptance speech. “I’m sorry I can’t be there with you tonight. I’m about to go on stage just down the road.”
The VMAs are taking place in nearby New Jersey. “Hope you’re having a wonderful evening and thank you so much,” finished Styles.
Styles, along with Doja Cat and Jack Harlow, led the nominations for the VMAs with eight nods, including Song of the Summer, Video of the Year, Artist of the Year, and Best Pop.
- 8/29/2022
- by Peony Hirwani
- The Independent - Music
Taylor Swift wowed fans with a surprise appearance at the 2022 VMAs at New Jersey’s Prudential Stadium on Sunday, 28 August.
The artist, who has a storied relationship with the awards, wore a dazzling, sheer diamond-look ensemble by designer Oscar de la Renta.
Returning to the awards after a three-year hiatus, Swift has been nominated in all five categories, winning Best Longform Video, for her work on All Too Well: The Short Film.
All Too Well stars Stranger Things actor Sadie Sink and Dylan O’Brien as well as Swift herself – Swift thanked both in her speech.
The song is largely believed to be inspired by Swift’s former relationship with Jake Gyllenhaal, though, the singer has never explicitly confirmed this.
Since the 2008 VMAs, Swift has received 11 awards out of 42 total nominations, not including tonight’s.
In 2009, Swift was at the centre of one of the most controversial incidents in awards show history.
The artist, who has a storied relationship with the awards, wore a dazzling, sheer diamond-look ensemble by designer Oscar de la Renta.
Returning to the awards after a three-year hiatus, Swift has been nominated in all five categories, winning Best Longform Video, for her work on All Too Well: The Short Film.
All Too Well stars Stranger Things actor Sadie Sink and Dylan O’Brien as well as Swift herself – Swift thanked both in her speech.
The song is largely believed to be inspired by Swift’s former relationship with Jake Gyllenhaal, though, the singer has never explicitly confirmed this.
Since the 2008 VMAs, Swift has received 11 awards out of 42 total nominations, not including tonight’s.
In 2009, Swift was at the centre of one of the most controversial incidents in awards show history.
- 8/29/2022
- by Tom Murray
- The Independent - Music
Johnny Depp made a surprise appearance at the MTV Video Music Awards 2022.
Right after Lizzo’s performance at the beginning of the star-studded ceremony, the 59-year-old actor made a quick appearance as the face of the Moonman trophy.
“I just want you guys to know I’m available for birthdays, bat mitzvahs, weddings, wakes - any old thing you need,” said Depp in the brief clip, which saw his face imposed on top of the Moonman helmet.
This week, it was reported that Depp would make a “comeback” appearance at the VMAs.
A source cited as “close” to Depp told The New York Post that the actor was going to make an appearance via video at the award show.
The source correctly claimed that Depp would appear as the silver astronaut statue awarded to VMA winners.
Depp is in the midst of returning to public life after winning his multi-million...
Right after Lizzo’s performance at the beginning of the star-studded ceremony, the 59-year-old actor made a quick appearance as the face of the Moonman trophy.
“I just want you guys to know I’m available for birthdays, bat mitzvahs, weddings, wakes - any old thing you need,” said Depp in the brief clip, which saw his face imposed on top of the Moonman helmet.
This week, it was reported that Depp would make a “comeback” appearance at the VMAs.
A source cited as “close” to Depp told The New York Post that the actor was going to make an appearance via video at the award show.
The source correctly claimed that Depp would appear as the silver astronaut statue awarded to VMA winners.
Depp is in the midst of returning to public life after winning his multi-million...
- 8/29/2022
- by Peony Hirwani
- The Independent - Music
Harry Styles may be one of the leading nominees at this year’s MTV Video Music Awards, but the singer received his first Moonman nod 10 years ago as part of One Direction.
1D made their VMAs debut in 2012, taking the stage to perform their hit single, “One Thing,” in front of a who’s-who of early 2010 celebs (Taylor Lautner! Zoe Saldana promoting Star Trek! Then-BFFs Rihanna and Katy Perry!)
The group — which still included Zayn Malik back then — began their performance with cameras following them to the stage before dramatically...
1D made their VMAs debut in 2012, taking the stage to perform their hit single, “One Thing,” in front of a who’s-who of early 2010 celebs (Taylor Lautner! Zoe Saldana promoting Star Trek! Then-BFFs Rihanna and Katy Perry!)
The group — which still included Zayn Malik back then — began their performance with cameras following them to the stage before dramatically...
- 8/25/2022
- by Tim Chan
- Rollingstone.com
The 21st Dragon Ball film landed at the top of the global box office with an estimated 32.1m.
World box office August 19-21 Rank Film (distributor) 3-day (world) Cume (world) 3-day (int’l) Cume (int’l) Territories 1. Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero (various) 32.1m 50.2m 12m 30.1m 31 2. Minions: The Rise Of Gru (Universal) 30.2m 883.6m 26.7m 483.6m 84 3; Bullet Train (Sony)
20.1m 150m 12.1m 81m 62 4. New Gods: Yang Jian (various) 19.8m 19.8m 19.8m 19.8m 1 5. Moon Man (various) 17.8m 397.9m 17.8m 397.9m 1 6. Top Gun Maverick (Paramount)
14.6m 1,403.4m 8.7m 720m 64 7. Warriors Of Future (various) 12m 52.1m 12m 52.1m 2 8. Beast (Universal) 14.4m 21.9m...
World box office August 19-21 Rank Film (distributor) 3-day (world) Cume (world) 3-day (int’l) Cume (int’l) Territories 1. Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero (various) 32.1m 50.2m 12m 30.1m 31 2. Minions: The Rise Of Gru (Universal) 30.2m 883.6m 26.7m 483.6m 84 3; Bullet Train (Sony)
20.1m 150m 12.1m 81m 62 4. New Gods: Yang Jian (various) 19.8m 19.8m 19.8m 19.8m 1 5. Moon Man (various) 17.8m 397.9m 17.8m 397.9m 1 6. Top Gun Maverick (Paramount)
14.6m 1,403.4m 8.7m 720m 64 7. Warriors Of Future (various) 12m 52.1m 12m 52.1m 2 8. Beast (Universal) 14.4m 21.9m...
- 8/22/2022
- by Charles Gant
- ScreenDaily
Chinese animation film “New Gods: Yang Jian” was the top film at the mainland China box office over the latest weekend. “Minions: The Rise of Gru” opened in third place.
“New Gods: Yang Jian” earned 19.8 million (RMB134 million) on its debut between Friday and Sunday, according to data from consultancy Artisan Gateway. It places ahead of previous winner “Moon Man” which slipped from first to second place with a 17.8 million (RMB121 million) fourth weekend. “Moon Man” now has a 397 million (RMB2.70 billion) cumulative.
“New Gods: Yang Jian” is a continuation of the “New Gods” franchise from Light Chaser Animation, the studio behind 2021 hit “New Gods: Nezha Reborn” and 2019’s “White Snake.” “Nezha Reborn” earned 67.6 million (RMB456 million).
The new film revolves around Yang Jian, a mythological figure from the Ming Dynasty and who was featured in historical novel “The Investiture of the Gods.” (The same book was also mined by...
“New Gods: Yang Jian” earned 19.8 million (RMB134 million) on its debut between Friday and Sunday, according to data from consultancy Artisan Gateway. It places ahead of previous winner “Moon Man” which slipped from first to second place with a 17.8 million (RMB121 million) fourth weekend. “Moon Man” now has a 397 million (RMB2.70 billion) cumulative.
“New Gods: Yang Jian” is a continuation of the “New Gods” franchise from Light Chaser Animation, the studio behind 2021 hit “New Gods: Nezha Reborn” and 2019’s “White Snake.” “Nezha Reborn” earned 67.6 million (RMB456 million).
The new film revolves around Yang Jian, a mythological figure from the Ming Dynasty and who was featured in historical novel “The Investiture of the Gods.” (The same book was also mined by...
- 8/22/2022
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
Johnny Depp on Hollywood Boulevard, where Jerry Bruckheimer was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Pic credit: ©ImageCollect.com/Paul Smith/Featureflash
Johnny Depp is rumored to make a surprise appearance at the MTV Video Music Awards next weekend.
This comes after the former Pirates of the Caribbean actor inked a new lucrative deal with Dior.
Depp has been the face of the Sauvage fragrance for several years and has signed on to continue.
Despite successfully suing Amber Heard at the defamation trial back in May, Depp is still battling it out in court with his ex-wife.
They are both appealing the jury verdict in which he won all three counts of defamation while the actress won one count of defamation and was awarded 2 million.
The jury awarded Depp 10.35 million after they ruled that Heard’s allegations of “sexual violence” and “domestic abuse” were false and defamed Depp.
Johnny Depp is rumored to make a surprise appearance at the MTV Video Music Awards next weekend.
This comes after the former Pirates of the Caribbean actor inked a new lucrative deal with Dior.
Depp has been the face of the Sauvage fragrance for several years and has signed on to continue.
Despite successfully suing Amber Heard at the defamation trial back in May, Depp is still battling it out in court with his ex-wife.
They are both appealing the jury verdict in which he won all three counts of defamation while the actress won one count of defamation and was awarded 2 million.
The jury awarded Depp 10.35 million after they ruled that Heard’s allegations of “sexual violence” and “domestic abuse” were false and defamed Depp.
- 8/21/2022
- by Frank Yemi
- Monsters and Critics
Universal/Illumination’s Minions: The Rise Of Gru bowed in China today (Friday), grossing an estimated Rmb 21.74M (3.2M), including midnights. This was good for the biggest opening day of a Hollywood animated film during the pandemic.
Overall, and not including China’s Friday, Rise Of Gru has grossed 461.2M at the international box office for 807.7M worldwide.
The origins story from director Kyle Balda and co-directors Brad Ableson and Jonathan del Val, saw its first day in China land above The Croods: A New Age’s Rmb 19.7M from November 27, 2020 as well as other studio toons released in the intervening time.
On Friday, Rise Of Gru ranked No. 3 in the daily chart behind local animated newcomer Yang Jian (New Gods) and the continued play of local blockbuster Moon Man.
In the early hours of Saturday locally, Rise Of Gru is on the rise, ahead of Moon Man for the day,...
Overall, and not including China’s Friday, Rise Of Gru has grossed 461.2M at the international box office for 807.7M worldwide.
The origins story from director Kyle Balda and co-directors Brad Ableson and Jonathan del Val, saw its first day in China land above The Croods: A New Age’s Rmb 19.7M from November 27, 2020 as well as other studio toons released in the intervening time.
On Friday, Rise Of Gru ranked No. 3 in the daily chart behind local animated newcomer Yang Jian (New Gods) and the continued play of local blockbuster Moon Man.
In the early hours of Saturday locally, Rise Of Gru is on the rise, ahead of Moon Man for the day,...
- 8/19/2022
- by Nancy Tartaglione
- Deadline Film + TV
China’s Bona Film Group, producer of such hits as The Battle At Lake Changjin, made its debut on the Shenzhen stock exchange on Thursday, with shares closing the day at Rmb 7.24 (1.07). This was a 44 increase from the initial public offering price of Rmb 5.03 (0.74) per share and put the market capitalization at just under Rmb 10B (1.47B), according to the South China Morning Post. The company raised Rmb 1.38B (203M) from the deal.
Bona returned to the China exchange after exiting the Nasdaq and going private in 2016. It had previously become the first Chinese film studio to trade on the Nasdaq beginning in 2010.
During the pandemic, Bona was behind China’s top-grossing movie ever, The Battle At Lake Changjin and its sequel, The Battle At Lake Changjin II (aka Water Gate Bridge). Collectively, the patriotic films grossed Rmb 9.83B (1.45B at current rates) in China.
In an interview posted to...
Bona returned to the China exchange after exiting the Nasdaq and going private in 2016. It had previously become the first Chinese film studio to trade on the Nasdaq beginning in 2010.
During the pandemic, Bona was behind China’s top-grossing movie ever, The Battle At Lake Changjin and its sequel, The Battle At Lake Changjin II (aka Water Gate Bridge). Collectively, the patriotic films grossed Rmb 9.83B (1.45B at current rates) in China.
In an interview posted to...
- 8/18/2022
- by Nancy Tartaglione
- Deadline Film + TV
Space comedy Moon Man held on to the top spot at the mainland China box office for a third weekend. It has now accumulated 363 million.
Released on July 29, “Moon Man” earned RMB217 million (32.4 million) between Friday and Sunday earning some 45 of the nationwide weekend total, according to data from consultancy Artisan Gateway.
The film’s invulnerability underlines once again how the Chinese exhibition and distribution sector has become focused on major hits and top-heavy.
There could scarcely be more powerful demonstration of that than the photographs carried over the weekend by Mainland Chinese of Hong Kong star Louis Koo apparently in tears over the disappointing box office stars for “Warriors of Future,” the sci-fi fantasy that he starred in, financed and produced.
“Warriors” opened in second place on the weekend of Aug. 5, 2022, and over the latest session fell to third place. It earned 12.0 million (compared with an opening shot of 20.8 million.
Released on July 29, “Moon Man” earned RMB217 million (32.4 million) between Friday and Sunday earning some 45 of the nationwide weekend total, according to data from consultancy Artisan Gateway.
The film’s invulnerability underlines once again how the Chinese exhibition and distribution sector has become focused on major hits and top-heavy.
There could scarcely be more powerful demonstration of that than the photographs carried over the weekend by Mainland Chinese of Hong Kong star Louis Koo apparently in tears over the disappointing box office stars for “Warriors of Future,” the sci-fi fantasy that he starred in, financed and produced.
“Warriors” opened in second place on the weekend of Aug. 5, 2022, and over the latest session fell to third place. It earned 12.0 million (compared with an opening shot of 20.8 million.
- 8/16/2022
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
Chinese sci-fi comedy returned to the global top spot in its third week of release.
World box office August 12-14 Rank Film (distributor) 3-day (world) Cume (world) 3-day (int’l) Cume (int’l) Territories 1. Moon Man (various) 32.1m 359.5m 32.1m 359.5m 1 2. Bullet Train (Sony)
30.4m 114.5m 17m 60m 62 3; The Fallen Bridge (various) 18.1m 18.1m 18.1m 18.1m 1 4. Minions: The Rise Of Gru (Universal) 15.7m 790.4m 10.8m 446.7m 81 5. Top Gun Maverick (Paramount) 15.5m 1,378m 8.4m 704.2m 65 6. DC League Of Super Pets (Warner Bros) 149m 109.7m 7.7m 51.4m 70 7. Warriors Of Future (various) 12m 52.1m 12m 52.1m 2 8. Nope (Universal) 11.6m 113.9m 6.3m 6.4m...
World box office August 12-14 Rank Film (distributor) 3-day (world) Cume (world) 3-day (int’l) Cume (int’l) Territories 1. Moon Man (various) 32.1m 359.5m 32.1m 359.5m 1 2. Bullet Train (Sony)
30.4m 114.5m 17m 60m 62 3; The Fallen Bridge (various) 18.1m 18.1m 18.1m 18.1m 1 4. Minions: The Rise Of Gru (Universal) 15.7m 790.4m 10.8m 446.7m 81 5. Top Gun Maverick (Paramount) 15.5m 1,378m 8.4m 704.2m 65 6. DC League Of Super Pets (Warner Bros) 149m 109.7m 7.7m 51.4m 70 7. Warriors Of Future (various) 12m 52.1m 12m 52.1m 2 8. Nope (Universal) 11.6m 113.9m 6.3m 6.4m...
- 8/15/2022
- by Charles Gant
- ScreenDaily
China has set an August 19 release date for Universal/Illumination’s Minions: The Rise Of Gru. This will be the first major tentpole from Hollywood to hit the market since Universal’s own Jurassic World Dominion which has grossed 157.4M there through Sunday and during an extended nine-week run; it is the biggest studio import of 2022.
The Universal Pictures Weibo account today posted the date for Rise Of Gru writing in part, “Long time no see, troublemakers! Get on the scooter, we’re back!” The Maoyan ticketing platform and the Douban reviews site are also carrying the date. (Check out the full-size China poster below.)
The market’s box office was severely impacted earlier this year amid Covid spikes that forced lockdowns and restrictions, with Shanghai and Beijing hit hard. Dominion‘s dinosaurs helped shake things up, and lately, local Chinese movies have seen a resurgence, including holdover sci-fi comedy...
The Universal Pictures Weibo account today posted the date for Rise Of Gru writing in part, “Long time no see, troublemakers! Get on the scooter, we’re back!” The Maoyan ticketing platform and the Douban reviews site are also carrying the date. (Check out the full-size China poster below.)
The market’s box office was severely impacted earlier this year amid Covid spikes that forced lockdowns and restrictions, with Shanghai and Beijing hit hard. Dominion‘s dinosaurs helped shake things up, and lately, local Chinese movies have seen a resurgence, including holdover sci-fi comedy...
- 8/8/2022
- by Nancy Tartaglione
- Deadline Film + TV
Brad Pitt starrer is being billed as the biggest opening for a US studio original-ip film since ’Tenet’.
Worldwide box office August 5-7 Rank Film (distributor) 3-day (world) Cume (world) 3-day (int’l) Cume (int’l) Territories 1. Bullet Train (Sony) 62.5m 62.5m 32.4m 32.4m 58 2. Moon Man (various) 59.9m 296.3m 59.9m 296.3m 1 3. Minions: The Rise Of Gru (Universal) 23m 757.9m 15.9m 423.3m 81 4. DC League Of Super Pets (Warner Bros) 22.6m 83.4m 11.4m 38.3m 68 5. Warriors Of Future (various)
20.6m 29.9m 20.6m 29.9m 2 6. Thor Love And Thunder (Disney) 18.7m 698.9m 11.1m 382.8 49 7. Top Gun Maverick (Paramount) 17.3m 1,352.5m 10.3m 690m 65 8. Emergency Declaration (various) 11.2m...
Worldwide box office August 5-7 Rank Film (distributor) 3-day (world) Cume (world) 3-day (int’l) Cume (int’l) Territories 1. Bullet Train (Sony) 62.5m 62.5m 32.4m 32.4m 58 2. Moon Man (various) 59.9m 296.3m 59.9m 296.3m 1 3. Minions: The Rise Of Gru (Universal) 23m 757.9m 15.9m 423.3m 81 4. DC League Of Super Pets (Warner Bros) 22.6m 83.4m 11.4m 38.3m 68 5. Warriors Of Future (various)
20.6m 29.9m 20.6m 29.9m 2 6. Thor Love And Thunder (Disney) 18.7m 698.9m 11.1m 382.8 49 7. Top Gun Maverick (Paramount) 17.3m 1,352.5m 10.3m 690m 65 8. Emergency Declaration (various) 11.2m...
- 8/8/2022
- by Charles Gant
- ScreenDaily
Chinese sci-fi comedy “Moon Man” held station at the top of the mainland China box office, albeit at a lower orbit. After ten days in cinemas its cumulative total is a fraction of a degree short of 300 million, and it operated at a higher elevation than new launch sci-fi actioner “Warriors of Future.”
The strong figures came despite some cinemas remaining closed in key cities and capacity limitations remaining in place in others. Hainan Island went into lockdown over the weekend as a cluster of Covid cases emerged. Consultancy, Artisan Gateway calculates that the weekend haul of 91.8 million propels the nationwide year to date box office total at 3.3 billion. Its deficit compared 2021 was reduced to 30.
There were no Hollywood titles in the latest weekend top five, giving Chinese films all the kudos. This time of year is traditionally considered an unofficial blackout period or ‘Chinese film support month,’ when major...
The strong figures came despite some cinemas remaining closed in key cities and capacity limitations remaining in place in others. Hainan Island went into lockdown over the weekend as a cluster of Covid cases emerged. Consultancy, Artisan Gateway calculates that the weekend haul of 91.8 million propels the nationwide year to date box office total at 3.3 billion. Its deficit compared 2021 was reduced to 30.
There were no Hollywood titles in the latest weekend top five, giving Chinese films all the kudos. This time of year is traditionally considered an unofficial blackout period or ‘Chinese film support month,’ when major...
- 8/8/2022
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
Directed by Adisorn Tresirikasem, the film is a feature spin-off of a local TV hit.
TV drama series spin-off Love Destiny The Movie has scored the biggest opening day and biggest opening weekend for a Thai film since early 2020, taking 4.9m (Thb 177.78m) from July 28-31, which included 1.4m (Thb 51.2m) on its first day.
The romantic comedy benefited from a four-day weekend in Thailand, led by the birthday of King Vajiralongkorn on July 28. Opening on the same week was Thai monster-adventure film Leio, although no new Hollywood blockbusters were on release; Thor: Love And Thunder was in its third week.
TV drama series spin-off Love Destiny The Movie has scored the biggest opening day and biggest opening weekend for a Thai film since early 2020, taking 4.9m (Thb 177.78m) from July 28-31, which included 1.4m (Thb 51.2m) on its first day.
The romantic comedy benefited from a four-day weekend in Thailand, led by the birthday of King Vajiralongkorn on July 28. Opening on the same week was Thai monster-adventure film Leio, although no new Hollywood blockbusters were on release; Thor: Love And Thunder was in its third week.
- 8/1/2022
- by Silvia Wong
- ScreenDaily
Inaugural year will focus on 11 creators.
Sundance Institute has launched the inaugural Latine Fellowship and Collab Scholarship, created to have a meaningful impact on Latinx representation in independent media.
The programme provides fellowships and scholarships to 11 emerging Latinx artists and offers professional development opportunities, virtual gatherings to connect with like-minded artists and Creator+ memberships to Sundance Collab.
The Sundance Institute Latine Fellowship will provide six emerging Latinx artists who have been previously supported by the Institute with a year-long multi-disciplinary fellowship experience starting in August and offering bespoke creative and tactical support along with unrestricted non-recoupable grants of 10,000.
The Sundance...
Sundance Institute has launched the inaugural Latine Fellowship and Collab Scholarship, created to have a meaningful impact on Latinx representation in independent media.
The programme provides fellowships and scholarships to 11 emerging Latinx artists and offers professional development opportunities, virtual gatherings to connect with like-minded artists and Creator+ memberships to Sundance Collab.
The Sundance Institute Latine Fellowship will provide six emerging Latinx artists who have been previously supported by the Institute with a year-long multi-disciplinary fellowship experience starting in August and offering bespoke creative and tactical support along with unrestricted non-recoupable grants of 10,000.
The Sundance...
- 8/1/2022
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
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