Noticias

What Did Zac Efron Reveal About His Personal Challenges Post Disney Fame? ( Photo Credit – Instagram )

Zac Efron’s rise to fame was as lightning-fast as his moves in High School Musical, where he charmed fans as Troy Bolton, the basketball star with a heart of gold. The Disney Channel classic made him a teen sensation, turning his character into a pop-culture icon. But despite the success, Zac’s transition from squeaky-clean Disney darling to a more mature actor was far from smooth.

After navigating the pressures of fame and dealing with personal struggles, Efron started to break away from his Disney roots. He didn’t want to be typecast as the boy-next-door anymore. So, after High School Musical 3, Zac made a bold move, refusing to work with Disney again. It was his way of embracing new challenges and evolving beyond the high school halls, despite the growing pains that came with it.

Glen Powell is upping his film profile!

The 36-year-old has now signed a first-look deal with Universal Pictures through his Barnstorm production company, THR reports.

If you recall, Glen recently had much success with Universal with Twisters.

Keep reading to find out more…

The actor and screenwriter has also tapped Dan Cohen as his partner to help run Barnstorm. Dan previously worked at Shawn Levy‘s 21 Laps.

“Barnstorm has been a dream of mine since I was a kid,” Glen shared in a statement. “I want our company to be a destination for world class theatrical entertainment. Throughout the process of making Twisters, I was so impressed with the leadership of Universal and the vision and ambition of their team across so many departments. We are so honored to call them home.”

“Glen is the complete package: a talented, charismatic producer, creator, writer, and actor at the top of his game,...

Glen Powell is progressing in Hollywood thanks to a new first-look film deal from Universal Pictures. This deal comes after Powell’s big year, which was topped off by the success of Universal’s “Twisters.” Along with this deal, Dan Cohen, a seasoned professional in the field, has become a partner in Powell’s production company, Barnstorm.

Cohen has worked for Shawn Levy’s 21 Laps Entertainment for almost 15 years. He has been an executive producer on several popular projects, including Netflix’s Stranger Things, the Oscar-winning movie Arrival, and many more. People in the business see his hiring at Barnstorm as a big chance.

“Barnstorm has been a dream of mine since I was a kid,” he said. He said he wanted the company to become a center for great theater fun. He said good things about Universal’s management of “Twisters,” which made $267.7 million in the U.S.

Universal Pictures has entered a first-look film partnership with Barnstorm, the production company founded by Glen Powell, the studio announced on Tuesday.

Former 21 Laps veteran Dan Cohen is set to join Barnstorm as a partner.

Powell and the studio are expanding their relationship following the success of “Twisters.” The film, where Powell starred as Tyler Owens, exceeded box office expectations and set a new record for natural disaster movie openings in the U.S. When “Twisters” was released on Peacock in November 2024, it became their most-watched new movie in its first two weeks.

“Barnstorm has been a dream of mine since I was a kid. I want our company to be a destination for world class theatrical entertainment. Throughout the process of making ‘Twisters,’ I was so impressed with the leadership of Universal and the vision and ambition of their team across so many departments. We are so honored to call them home,...

Glen Powell’s schedule isn’t about to slow down. The actor and his production company, Barnstorm, have signed a first-look deal with Universal Pictures, the studio behind “Twister” (1996) and its Powell-starring sequel “Twisters” (2024).

“Barnstorm has been a dream of mine since I was a kid,” Powell said in a statement. “I want our company to be a destination for world class theatrical entertainment. Throughout the process of making ‘Twisters,’ I was so impressed with the leadership of Universal and the vision and ambition of their team across so many departments. We are so honored to call them home.”

“Glen is the complete package: a talented, charismatic producer, creator, writer, and actor at the top of his game, who is committed to entertaining global audiences across all genres,” Universal Pictures President Peter Cramer said. “He was an ideal partner throughout the production and release of our hit ‘Twisters,’ and...

Glen Powell, the actor who had a breakout Hollywood year in 2024, is continuing his hot streak into the new year.

The actor and his production banner Barnstorm have signed a first-look film deal with Universal Pictures, for whom the actor starred in last year’s surprise hit Twisters.

The deal comes on the heels of Powell finding the executive tasked with running his banner. Dan Cohen, who was a principal at Shawn Levy’s prolific production company 21 Laps, will help run Barnstorm as Powell’s partner. The new position, one of the most-coveted jobs in town, was filled over the holiday break.

“Barnstorm has been a dream of mine since I was a kid,” said Powell in a statement announcing the first-look deal. “I want our company to be a destination for world class theatrical entertainment. Throughout the process of making Twisters, I was so impressed with the leadership of...

Universal Pictures is entering a first-look film production pact with its Twisters star Glen Powell and his Barnstorm production company. At the same time, 21 Laps veteran Dan Cohen is set to join Barnstorm as the label’s partner.

The news comes in the wake of Powell being nominated for his first Golden Globe, for Best Actor in a Comedy and Musical for Netflix’s Hit Man, which he produced and co-wrote.

Twisters overperformed against industry expectations, becoming the biggest opening for a natural disaster film ever at the domestic box office with an $81.2 million domestic start, a $267.7M stateside final and near a $371M global take. The sequel debuted on Peacock in November, becoming the service’s biggest Pay 1 film ever in its first 14 days on the platform.

“Barnstorm has been a dream of mine since I was a kid. I want our company to be a destination for world-class theatrical entertainment,...

It's been an interesting year at the box office, with some genuine highs for studios like Disney (which massively struggled last year) and films like Wicked and Moana 2, which led a record-breaking Thanksgiving box office. Artificially, it may seem like theaters finally rebounded from their post-covid slump. The numbers,...

Universal Pictures has entered a first-look deal with Edith’s Daughter, Cynthia Erivo’s production company.

This new pact expands upon the creative relationship between the Oscar nominated and Tony, Emmy and Grammy winning actress and Universal following her starring role as Elphaba in Jon M. Chu’s Wicked which is set to take the world by storm this weekend with a $175M global opening.

“Cynthia’s world-class talent is matched only by her unwavering commitment to authenticity, representation, and empathy as a storyteller,” said Peter Cramer, President of Universal Pictures. “She has inspired us all throughout the making of Wicked, and we are so honored that she has chosen to partner with Universal to help amplify her mission at Edith’s Daughter. We couldn’t be more excited for the road ahead.”

“Having spent the last 3 years collaborating with Donna Langley, Peter Cramer and the team at Universal on Wicked,...

Cynthia Erivo is popular at Universal Pictures.

The Wicked star and her production company, Edith’s Daughter, have signed a first-look film deal with the studio, Universal announced Wednesday.

No projects were revealed but the pact does build on the relationship the Tony, Grammy and Emmy award-winning actress has built in the several years with the studio and its specialty studio Focus Features. Erivo is starring in Wicked, which is shaping up to open massively this coming weekend and will follow up a year later with Wicked Part Two. She also earned an Oscar nomination for her starring turn in Focus’ biopic Harriet. The actress earned raves for her stage work in The Color Purple in the mid-2010s and made her film debut in the 2019 Steve McQueen thriller Widows.

“Cynthia’s world-class talent is matched only by her unwavering commitment to authenticity, representation, and empathy as a storyteller,” said...

“Wicked” star Cynthia Erivo’s production company, Edith’s Daughter, has signed a first-look deal with Universal Pictures.

The pact expands on the Tony, Grammy and Emmy-winning star’s relationship with the studio after Erivo starred as Elphaba in the highly-anticipated film adaptation of Broadway musical “Wicked.” Part 1 of the Jon M. Chu-directed film will be released on Friday, with the second chapter to follow next year. Erivo also starred as Harriet Tubman in “Harriet” from Universal’s specialty studio Focus Features, earning two Academy Award nominations — one for best actress and another for co-writing the film’s original song, “Stand Up.”

“Having spent the last three years collaborating with Donna Langley, Peter Cramer and the team at Universal on ‘Wicked,’ I’ve experienced first-hand the love and fearlessness with which they tell stories and uplift storytellers,” said Erivo in a statement announcing the news. “I’m absolutely overjoyed...

Universal Pictures has entered into a first-look film partnership with Edith’s Daughter, the production banner led by Academy Award nominated and Tony, Grammy and Emmy award-winning actress Cynthia Erivo, the company announced on Wednesday.

This new pact expands upon the creative relationship between Erivo and the Studio following her starring role as Elphaba in Jon Chu’s upcoming highly anticipated feature film “Wicked” based off the hit Broadway production, and next year’s second chapter of the cinematic event, “Wicked Part Two,” in addition to her Academy Award nominated performance in “Harriet” from Universal Pictures’ specialty studio Focus Features.

“Cynthia’s world-class talent is matched only by her unwavering commitment to authenticity, representation, and empathy as a storyteller,” Peter Cramer, President of Universal Pictures, said in a statement. “She has inspired us all throughout the making of ‘Wicked,’ and we are so honored that she has chosen to partner...

Universal Pictures finds Cynthia Erivo so bewitching that it has signed her production company, Edith’s Daughter, to a first-look film deal.

Erivo can soon be seen starring as Elphaba in Universal’s “Wicked” feature film, directed by Jon M. Chu and based off the hit Broadway production. “Wicked Part Two” comes out in 2025.

Erivo was nominated for an Oscar for “Harriet,” a Focus Features film; Focus is the specialty studio for Universal Pictures. Had she won, Erivo would have a completed the Egot.

“Cynthia’s world-class talent is matched only by her unwavering commitment to authenticity, representation, and empathy as a storyteller,” said Peter Cramer, the president of Universal Pictures. “She has inspired us all throughout the making of Wicked, and we are so honored that she has chosen to partner with Universal to help amplify her mission at Edith’s Daughter. We couldn’t be more excited for the road ahead.

Jordan Peele and Monkeypaw Productions are looking to foster the creative talents of the next generation of genre filmmakers, joining forces with the Toronto International Film Festival and Universal Filmed Entertainment Group for a venture dubbed “No Drama.”

Detailed by Variety this afternoon, the “No Drama” initiative began with a simple question: “What’s your biggest fear? What monsters lurk in the deepest corners of your inner thoughts?”

That question was posed to five filmmakers, who were hand selected to answer in the form of a short proof-of-concept horror movie, each filmmaker tasked with bringing visions to the screen that “explore horror across cultures, time, environments and society.”

Variety details, “Chandler Crump, Charlie Dennis, Helena Hawkes, Jared Leaf and Ariel Zengotita will each receive a $50,000 grant from TIFF to produce their projects during the one-year, non exclusive program.”

“I couldn’t be more excited to welcome the first class of...

Jordan Peele’s Monkeypaw Productions, the Toronto International Film Festival and Universal Filmed Entertainment Group have announced the inaugural class of emerging filmmakers for their “No Drama” initiative.

Born from the mind of Peele, “No Drama” asks the artists to reflect on this question: “What’s your biggest fear? What monsters lurk in the deepest corners of your inner thoughts?”

Five filmmakers have been selected to create proof of concept or short films that explore horror across cultures, time, environments and society. Chandler Crump, Charlie Dennis, Helena Hawkes, Jared Leaf and Ariel Zengotita will each receive a $50,000 grant from TIFF to produce their projects during the one-year, non exclusive program.

“I couldn’t be more excited to welcome the first class of ‘No Drama’ filmmakers to the Monkeypaw family. Chandler, Charlie, Helena, Ariel and Jared each bring a unique instinct to genre storytelling. I’m inspired and chilled by their approaches to examining fear,...

Ghetto Film School has received a $5 million donation from MacKenzie Scott, the highest individual gift to the organization in its 25-year history.

CEO Montea Robinson shared the news at the Gfs Fall Benefit in Santa Monica, which honored Demi Moore, Kelvin Harrison Jr. and Sean Wang. ”We are very focused on the future. We have really, really big dreams ahead,” said Robinson of Scott’s donation.

The benefit, presented by Sony and sponsored by Amazon MGM Studios and Disney, brought together leaders in the entertainment industry to support Ghetto Film School’s mission of educating, developing and celebrating the next generation of great storytellers.

This year’s event, held at the home of Veronica and Brian Grazer, welcomed industry guests including director David O. Russell, Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos, Universal Pictures president Peter Cramer and actor Samara Weaving.

During her speech, honoree Demi Moore reflected on her decades-spanning career and...

Glen Powell arrives at lunch through a back door toting a container of bone broth he isn’t eager to look at, much less consume. He’s more a “chicken-fried-steak-in-Austin kind of a guy,” he insists, but he’s signed on to star in an A24 revenge thriller and he’s supposed to drop 15 pounds in a matter of weeks. It means he won’t be ordering the midday margarita that Ron Perlman is nursing at the next table. Reluctantly, Powell requests a green juice.

“I’ve almost given up on this diet, like, three times,” he says, flashing a familiar smile. “I’m like, ‘Can’t we just change the character?’ “

Glen Powell was photographed March 26 at the Harvard House Motel in Los Angeles.

But Powell’s not one to give up on anything, so he hands over the broth. The restaurant’s going to store it for him,...

Film industry players gathered at Mr. Nakamoto at the Mondrian hotel in Cannes on Monday night to celebrate Universal Pictures International.

As Variety co-editor-in-chief Ramin Setoodeh pointed out in his opening remarks, Universal had several big successes this past year, not the least of which was Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer,” which took home seven Oscars. The studio also produced box office hits “The Super Mario Bros. Movie,” “M3GAN” and “Cocaine Bear,” and is promising a victory lap this year with “The Bikeriders,” “Despicable Me 4,” “Twisters” and “Wicked” on the lineup.

For this reason, Universal Pictures International was awarded Variety‘s international achievement in film award, which was accepted by the company’s president of distribution — international Veronika Kwan Vandenberg.

During her speech, Kwan Vandenberg thanked her team, including NBCUniversal chairman and chief content officer Donna Langley, head of business affairs Jimmy Horowitz, head of global distribution Peter Levinsohn, head...

Action romance is a tricky genre to master — it requires the right balance of heart and spectacle. But when done well, à la “True Lies” or “Mr. and Mrs. Smith,” it will live on forever in the rewatch rotation.

Stunt coordinator-turned-director David Leitch has launched cars straight into the air and staged fight scenes that have had theaters erupting in thunderous cheers. His latest challenge, however, will be making the audience’s heart melt with “The Fall Guy,” in theaters now. Smartly, he cast Ryan Gosling, the living embodiment of a junior high schooler’s diary entry, to play the hero.

Adapted from the 1980s series, the Universal film follows down-at-his-heels action choreographer Colt Seavers (Gosling), who must unravel a treacherous mystery while on the set of the next big blockbuster. The movie happens to be directed by his ex-girlfriend, played by Emily Blunt.

So what took Leitch, known for...

Ryan Gosling’s The Fall Guy promised extreme action and even intense drama, and more than the fight sequences, the soundtracks of the movie were also carefully curated. A lot of discussion and deliberation went on inside the room to pick the most appropriate songs for every scene.

Ryan Gosling in The Fall Guy

There’s a variety of soundtracks used in The Fall Guy. From the heart-wrenching Taylor Swift break-up song ‘All Too Well’ to a karaoke version of Christina Aguilera’s ‘Genie in a Bottle’, fans would not be able to guess what track comes next.

Ryan Gosling Did Not Like One Of The Fall Guy’s Main Soundtracks

The Fall Guy also featured some classic hits like the 1979 Kiss song ‘I Was Made For Lovin’ You’, but it almost did not make the cut as everyone seemed to hate it. Director David Leitch was the one who proposed the idea.

Spoiler Alert: This story discusses plot elements from “The Fall Guy,” now playing in theaters.

Long before Taylor Swift embarked on the Eras Tour, director David Leitch and producer Kelly McCormick had the idea to use “All Too Well” as a key moment in “The Fall Guy.”

McCormick, a self-professed Swiftie, and Leitch were trying to find a fresh and contemporary song to fit into a particular scene.

In the film, Ryan Gosling plays Colt Seavers, one of Hollywood’s top stuntmen. After experiencing an on-set accident, he falls off the grid for 18 months, ghosting aspiring director Jody (Emily Blunt), someone he also happens to be dating. The two awkwardly reunite on the set of her directorial debut, and when they wrap their first day, Colt retreats to his pickup truck reflecting on happier times with Jody.

McCormick thought a Swift song would be perfect for that scene, and even Gosling agreed.

Longtime Vanity Fair editor Britt Hennemuth is departing his role as the publication’s West coast director to join Universal Pictures.

Hennemuth has been named senior vice president of production development and special projects at the studio, where he will work with Universal’s creative team to “develop and oversee production on projects, foster connections with talent, and draw upon his extensive media expertise to advise other departments.” He will report directly to Universal Pictures president Peter Cramer, who announced the new hire on Friday.

“Britt is a true cinephile, and through his stellar work at Vanity Fair, he has been a leader in telling stories that help shape culture and amplify new voices,” stated Cramer. “His well-respected skills and experience will be the perfect complement to our team at Universal Pictures as we continue to bring a wide range of innovative films to global theatrical audiences.”

Added Hennemuth: “It...

Universal Pictures has hired Britt Hennemuth, who has worked for nearly a decade at Vanity Fair.

Hennemuth has been tapped for a role of senior vp of production development and special projects, which he will begin this summer. Hennemuth, who will report to Universal Pictures president Peter Cramer, leaves his position as West Coast director for Vanity Fair, where he has worked since starting as an intern at the Condé Nast-published magazine in 2015.

His most recent role at the publication included handling talent relations and outreach across multiple platforms. Hennemuth curated the annual Hollywood Issue and the Vanity Fair Oscar Party, in addition to managing the monthly Vanities column. He has written cover stories and features about such prominent talent as Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lopez, Renée Zellweger and Timothée Chalamet.

“Britt is a true cinephile, and through his stellar work at Vanity Fair, he has been a leader in telling...

Universal Pictures has hired Vanity Fair’s West Coast Director Britt Hennemuth as their new SVP of Production Development and Special Projects.

In the new role, Hennemuth will be embedded within Universal’s creative team to develop and oversee production on projects, foster connections with talent, and draw upon his extensive media expertise to advise other departments on key matters. Hennemuth will directly report to Universal Pictures President, Peter Cramer.

Hennemuth is currently transitioning out of Vanity Fair and will start at Universal this summer.

“Britt is a true cinephile, and through his stellar work at Vanity Fair, he has been a leader in telling stories that help shape culture and amplify new voices,” said Cramer. “His well-respected skills and experience will be the perfect complement to our team at Universal Pictures as we continue to bring a wide range of innovative films to global theatrical audiences.”

Said Hennemuth, “It...

At a festival known for raucous audiences, Dev Patel’s “Monkey Man” made for the rowdiest screening yet.

During the SXSW premiere of the actor’s directorial debut, Austin’s Paramount Theater was filled with cries of “We love you, Dev!” and “India!” that can only be described as guttural. The crowd’s love for Patel only grew more fervent as the film went on, revealing not only a new cinematic voice, but a surprisingly political action thriller that saw Patel’s character take on the Hindu caste system with teeth, knives and blood.

Dev Patel receives a standing ovation after a #SXSW screening of his feature directorial debut "Monkey Man." pic.twitter.com/OcpjhByVSu

— Variety (@Variety) March 12, 2024

“The action genre has been abused by the system,” Patel said while introducing the film. “You know, a quick buck. Mindless shit. I wanted to give it soul. Real trauma. Real pain.

Monkeypaw Productions is partnering with the Toronto Film Festival and the Universal Filmmakers Project for the “No Drama” initiative, designed to cultivate new talent by selecting up to six writer-directors to create short films.

The unique aspect of the program is the potential for the shorts to be developed into full-length projects under the guidance of Monkeypaw and Universal Pictures.

“No Drama” is a global initiative that will have digital and physical touchpoints with the Monkeypaw, Universal and TIFF Industry teams. Selected filmmakers will receive a $50,000 grant to produce their short, exposure to the major studio production process, access to creative and production executives to develop their professional networks, and the opportunity to screen their projects during TIFF in 2025.

“A good monster story comes from a perspective that’s very personal and very vulnerable. It’s a story that is so deeply personal that you think no one else can relate to it,...

Universal has entered into a first-look film partnership with Point Grey Pictures, the production company of Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg and James Weaver. The deal comes following the companies’ past work together on breakout comedy hits including the Neighbors franchise, Good Boys and Blockers.

In a statement on the pact Donna Langley, NBCUniversal Studio Group’s Chairman and Chief Content Officer, observed that “Seth, Evan and James have developed a filmmaking brand entirely their own. Whether we’re watching their stories of teenage turtles, anthropomorphic groceries, or foul mouthed sixth graders making epically bad decisions, they always manage to blend Point Grey’s signature edgy humor with humanity and heart.”

“Becoming newly anointed knights in the kingdom of Dame Donna Langley is an honour and privilege we do not take lightly,” added Rogen, Goldberg and Weaver. “We pledge to win grand box office battles alongside Peter Cramer, Erik Baiers and...

Seth Rogen’s production company Point Grey Pictures is teaming up with the studio that backed its raunchy, R-rated hits like “Neighbors,” “Good Boys” and “Blockers.”

Universal Pictures has forged a first-look film partnership with Point Grey Pictures, the company that Rogen co-founded with Evan Goldberg in 2011. James Weaver, a longtime producing partner, is the president of Point Grey, which is named after the Vancouver secondary school where Rogen and Goldberg first met.

“Seth, Evan and James have developed a filmmaking brand entirely their own,” said Donna Langley, chairman of NBCUniversal Studio Group and chief content officer. “Whether we’re watching their stories of teenage turtles, anthropomorphic groceries, or foul-mouthed sixth graders making epically bad decisions, they always manage to blend Point Grey’s signature edgy humor with humanity and heart.”

Point Grey’s recent slate includes the Prime Video series “The Boys” and spinoffs “Gen V” and the newly announced “Mexico.

Seth Rogen and his Point Grey Pictures are pledging their fealty to “Dame Donna Langley”, cheekily agreeing to be knights in service of Langley’s kingdom at Universal Pictures.

The production company has signed a first-look film deal with the studio, expanding an existing relationship that brought us the “Neighbors” films, “Good Boys,” and “Blockers.” No specific projects were announced to be in development currently.

“Becoming newly anointed knights in the kingdom of Dame Donna Langley is an honour and privilege we do not take lightly,” Rogen, Goldberg and Weaver said in a statement — note the British “u.” “We pledge to win grand box office battles alongside Peter Cramer, Erik Baiers and the rest of our partners at Universal, and shall duly make the Universal coffers overfloweth.”

“Seth, Evan and James have developed a filmmaking brand entirely their own,” said Langley, the chairman of NBCUniversal Studio Group and its chief content officer.

Point Grey Pictures, the powerhouse production company run by Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg and James Weaver, has signed a first-look deal with Universal Pictures.

Details of the deal are being kept in a purple haze but it is being described as a traditional film pact in which Point Grey will produce movies across various genres.

The company previously had a content deal with Lionsgate, a pact signed in 2019, and prior to that, with production company Good Universe. Sources say Point Grey’s television deal will remain with Lionsgate.

Point Grey and Universal have worked together before. The banner produced comedy hits Neighbors, and its sequel, both in which Rogen starred, as well as the very well-regarded comedy Good Boys and the profitable Blockers.

“Seth, Evan and James have developed a filmmaking brand entirely their own,” said NBCUniversal Studio Group chairman and Cco Donna Langley in a statement. “Whether we’re...

“The Fall Guy” is now crash landing in theaters on May 3, 2024, after “Deadpool 3” vacated the release slot amid the work stoppage caused by the recently ended SAG-AFTRA strike.

David Leitch’s action thriller, starring Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt, was originally set to release on March 1, 2024. Based on Glen A. Larson’s 1980s television series of the same name, the film stars Gosling as Colt, a stuntman on the hunt for a missing movie star he once doubled for. Blunt stars as Gosling’s director and ex-girlfriend Jody Moreno, while Aaron Taylor-Johnson plays Awol star Tom Ryder.

Stephanie Hsu (“Everything Everywhere All at Once”), Winston Duke (“Black Panther”), Hannah Waddingham (“Ted Lasso”) and Teresa Palmer (“A Discovery of Witches”) round out the cast.

Disney previously announced that several films have been delayed due to the actors strike, including “Deadpool 3,” Marvel’s “Thunderbolts,” “Mufasa: The Lion King” and its “Blade” reboot.

Ryan Gosling hits the crash pad in the all-new trailer for David Leitch’s thriller “The Fall Guy.”

Based on Glen A. Larson’s 1980s television series of the same name, the film stars Gosling as Colt, a stuntman on the hunt for a missing movie star he once doubled for. The film also stars Emily Blunt as Gosling’s ex-girlfriend Jody and Aaron Taylor-Johnson as the Awol star.

Supporting them in the film is Stephanie Hsu (“Everything Everywhere All at Once”), Winston Duke (“Black Panther”), Hannah Waddingham (“Ted Lasso”) and Teresa Palmer (“A Discovery of Witches”). Audiences got to catch the first sneak peek of the film back at CinemaCon 2023.

“It just feels like we’re paying homage to the stunt community,” producer Kelly McCormick told Collider in 2022. “And to, really, cinema and those of us who make the movies. And it’s sort of a love letter to the industry.

The news Thursday about Universal Filmed Entertainment Group chairman Donna Langley’s ascent to bring TV content under her domain doesn’t just speak to the greater NBCUniversal plan to have a more unified strategy across theatrical, TV and streaming.

It’s also a testament to NBCU realizing and relishing the risk-taking, creative-friendly asset the company has in Langley.

There was talk following NBCUniversal CEO Jeff Shell’s exit over sexual harassment claims that Langley would inherit the post given her billion-dollar-grossing track record at the film studio and as a level-headed balancer of scales in negotiations. Comcast CEO Brian Roberts gave those interim duties to Comcast president Mike Cavanagh, but that wasn’t a means to sideline Langley.

Related: Comcast President Mike Cavanagh Makes His Mark As NBCUniversal Chief With Exec Reorg, Donna Langley’s Dual Film-tv Role

While brass tacks oversee of news, sports and sundry NBCU ops are not her thing,...

There's something to be said for a reliable craftsman like "Fast X" helmer Louis Leterrier. Few would try and seriously argue that the director of "Transporter 2," "The Incredible Hulk," and "Now You See Me" is secretly a visionary, but there's absolutely a consistency in quality to his work regardless of genre or budget. It's what also allowed Leterrier to quietly go from helming every episode of the virtuoso puppet fantasy series "The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance" to establishing the template for the deft and quick-footed crime caper "Lupin" in the span of but two years.

Even with a plethora of experience under his belt, "Fast X" is easily the biggest challenge Leterrier has ever taken on ... as one would hope given its reported $340 million (!) budget. On top of that, it's a job that he stumbled into under pretty bizarre circumstances. As you may recall, he took over from...

President of Universal Pictures Peter Cramer addresses whether the ongoing writers' strike will affect the release plans for Fast & Furious 11. After 2021's F9, Vin Diesel's Dominic Toretto and his extended family of blood relatives and friends are set to return to face off against Jason Momoa's new villain in Fast X. The film is expected to serve as the first part of the conclusion of the main Fast & Furious franchise, with an eleventh film from returning director Louis Leterrier already in the works.

Ahead of the release of Fast X this month, Cramer reveals in a recent interview with Los Angeles Times whether audiences can expect a delay for Fast & Furious 11's release date. The film is currently slated for a 2025 release, but that could well change due to the WGA strike, he confirms. Check out Cramer's full comment below:

“The writers’ strike is something that’s on everybody’s mind.

After Vin Diesel had left the stage and introduced high-octane Fast X footage, a voiceover asked CinemaCon attendees to remain patient for a special surprise as professionals prepped the stage.

The big screen then promoted EightySeven North Productions banner, while a team of stunt professionals from the company stormed the stage to show off their impressive set of skills. It started with a motorcycle rider dragging a man across the stage followed by a gymnastics display, a mini car zooming back and forth, and a slew of aerial flips and tricks. Minutes later, filmmaker David Leitch took the stage and “detonated” two performers who jumped from the Colosseum rafters to mats on the stage.

The spectacle, near the end of Universal’s studio presentation, served as a way for Leitch, a former stuntman, to introduce his upcoming film The Fall Guy. In doing so, he welcomed his stars Ryan Gosling...

Louis Leterrier will direct the 11th 'Fast and Furious' film.The 49-year-old filmmaker stepped in to replace Justin Lin behind the camera on 'Fast X' and has now been tapped to helm the following movie, which is set to be the final flick in the high-speed franchise.Universal Pictures president Peter Cramer said: "Louis joined the 'Fast and Furious' team seamlessly, with an innate understanding of the franchise that is stronger than ever after two decades."Under his direction, 'Fast X' is a high-intensity thriller with all the spectacular action, emotion, and twists that the fans have come to expect – and then some. We are thrilled that he will continue to work his magic in the director's chair."Louis was drafted in to direct 'Fast X' after shooting had started last year and previously admitted that he nearly turned down the project as he...

Fast & Furious 11 finally gets a director, showing the studio's faith in Fast X. The highly anticipated 10th entry in the two-decade-old franchise sees Dominic Toretto (Vin Diesel) clash with Dante Reyes (Jason Momoa), the son of drug lord Hernan Reyes (Joaquim de Almeida) from Fast Five and an ally of Cipher (Charlize Theron). Originally led by franchise alum Justin Lin, his controversial departure saw The Transporter's Louis Leterrier as a last-minute replacement for Fast X.

Via Variety, Universal Pictures announced Leterrier as the director for Fast & Furious 11, the final film in the car-centric action franchise. With Fast X not yet released, Universal shows its faith in the tenth film by retaining Leterrier to close out the film series. Calling the franchise "stronger than ever" under Leterrier, Universal Pictures president Peter Cramer is clearly confident with the pick. Read Cramer's statement below:

“Louis joined the ‘Fast & Furious’ team seamlessly,...

Louis Leterrier, the director of Now You See Me and several Transporter action movies, is Universal’s choice to direct the 11th Fast & Furious film after he stepped in to direct Fast X, set to hit theaters on May 19.

The 11th film will be a companion to Fast X, Universal says.

“Louis joined the Fast & Furious team seamlessly, with an innate understanding of the franchise that is stronger than ever after two decades. Under his direction, Fast X is a high intensity thriller with all the spectacular action, emotion and twists that the fans have come to expect — and then some. We are thrilled that he will continue to work his magic in the director’s chair,” Universal Pictures president Peter Cramer said in a statement.

Universal worked with Leterrier on The Incredible Hulk, and the filmmaker is known as being a reliable helmer working on big-budget, effects-heavy...

The final "Fast and Furious" movie (if you believe that this series will ever really end) has found its director — and it's a familiar name: Louis Leterrier. Leterrier also helmed the upcoming "Fast X," and now he's on board to direct "Fast and Furious 11," which will get an appropriate and official title sooner or later. This is likely a sign that the studio and producers are happy with Leterrier's work on "Fast X," as the filmmaker was a last-minute replacement, taking over the 10th movie from franchise stalwart Justin Lin. Leterrier's previous credits include "Unleashed," which is a pretty great action movie no one seems to talk about anymore, as well as "Transporter 2," "The Incredible Hulk," "Clash of the Titans," and "Now You See Me."

An Innate Understanding Of The Franchise

Variety broke the news that Louis Leterrier is directing "Fast and the Furious 11," and included a statement from...

Louis Leterrier will return to direct the next installment in the “Fast & Furious” finale. The film will serve as a companion to the highly anticipated “Fast X,” Universal Pictures announced on Wednesday.

Leterrier, best known for directing “The Incredible Hulk” and “Transporter” films, replaced Justin Lin during production on “Fast X.”

“Louis joined the ‘Fast & Furious’ team seamlessly, with an innate understanding of the franchise that is stronger than ever after two decades. Under his direction, ‘Fast X’ is a high intensity thriller with all the spectacular action, emotion, and twists that the fans have come to expect – and then some,” Universal Pictures president Peter Cramer said in a statement. “We are thrilled that he will continue to work his magic in the director’s chair.”

Also Read:

Why ‘The Pope’s Exorcist’ Director Went Bonkers Over Russell Crowe: ‘Who Doesn’t Want to See the Gladiator Take on the Devil?...

Louis Leterrier is staying in Dominic Toretto’s family.

The “Transporter” helmer will serve as director of the next film in the grand finale of the “Fast and Furious” franchise. The new project will serve as a companion film to “Fast X,” the 10th title in the Vin Diesel series which opens May 19.

Leterrier replaced Justin Lin as director on “Fast X” last May, a breakneck substitution that clearly resulted in something meaningful for the team – which includes producer-star Diesel and legacy cast Michelle Rodriguez, Ludacris, Tyrese Gibson and Charlize Theron.

“Louis joined the ‘Fast & Furious’ team seamlessly, with an innate understanding of the franchise that is stronger than ever after two decades. Under his direction, ‘Fast X’ is a high intensity thriller with all the spectacular action, emotion, and twists that the fans have come to expect – and then some,” said Universal Pictures president Peter Cramer. “We are thrilled...

In a move toward more planet-friendly movies, Universal Filmed Entertainment Group (Ufeg) has announced today that it is launching a new initiative called the GreenerLight Program (a play on the term given for when movies are given a go at a studio).

The new plan is designed to embed sustainable practices and eco-conscious forethought across the entirety of the filmmaking process, starting from script development and on to production (including location decisions) and distribution. The studio also said the program will encompass looking at depictions of on-screen behaviors from an environmentally friendly angle. (Similar moves have been made by such directors as Kat Coiro, who has worked in partnership with the nonprofit Habits of Waste to show characters using reusable containers instead of single-use plastics onscreen.)

Going forward, every film that is greenlit at the studio will include a sustainability plan, which Universal claims is unique among studios.

Said Universal Pictures...

The Forever Purge (pick up a copy Here), the fifth film in the Purge franchise, was said to be the final chapter in the series when it was first announced… but while doing press for the film last year, Purge creator James DeMonaco revealed that he had come up with an idea for one more sequel. One that would see Frank Grillo reprising the role of Leo Barnes from The Purge: Anarchy and The Purge: Election Year. Then Grillo confirmed that he and DeMonaco were “committed” to making The Purge 6 together. A year and a half later, it doesn’t look like Universal has officially given the project a greenlight yet, but during an interview with Empire magazine (with thanks to Screen Rant for sharing the excerpt), Grillo said that he and DeMonaco are still working on pushing The Purge 6 forward toward production.

Grillo said, “I had an idea in...

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II is resurrecting the superhero movie debate.

The “Matrix Resurrections” actor and “Aquaman” star told Vulture that he balances being in a DC film by working with filmmakers like Aaron Sorkin for Oscar-nominated “The Trial of the Chicago 7” and acting on Broadway in an upcoming rendition of “Topdog/Underdog.”

“Everything should be about getting to the truth. But sometimes you got to know which movie or genre you’re in,” Abdul-Mateen explained. “Something like ‘Aquaman,’ that’s clown work. ‘Aquaman’ is not ‘The Trial of the Chicago 7.’ You have got to get over yourself.”

Abdul-Mateen, who plays Manta in the upcoming “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom,” continued, “In order to survive and to do it well, you have to play that game and then be crafty about when you want to surprise the audience, the director, or yourself with a little bit of ‘Wow, I didn...

Universal Pictures has entered into a first-look production agreement with filmmakers Michael Bay and Brad Fuller under their Platinum Dunes banner, Peter Cramer, Universal Pictures president, announced on Thursday.

With more than 2.7 billion in box office grosses since its founding in 2001, the company’s credits include some of the most iconic genre films in recent history, including the “Texas Chainsaw Massacre” series, he critically and commercially-acclaimed “A Quiet Place: Parts I & II,” and Universal Pictures’ successful “The Purge” and “Ouija” franchises.

“Michael Bay is not only one of the world’s preeminent directors, but together with Brad Fuller, he has established Platinum Dunes as one of the most consistently successful and innovative production companies in the industry,” Cramer said in a statement. “We are excited to welcome Michael and Brad to the Universal lot and look forward to building upon their amazing track record at Platinum Dunes for many years to come.

Click here to read the full article.

Filmmaker Michael Bay has resurrected his Platinum Dunes banner and found a new home for the storied production company.

The director, known for his Transformers movies and the Bad Boys franchise, has reunited with Brad Fuller, his former producing partner, in bringing Dunes back. The company has signed a first-look deal with Universal, the studio behind his most recent action movie, Ambulance.

“Michael Bay is not only one of the world’s preeminent directors, but together with Brad Fuller, he has established Platinum Dunes as one of the most consistently successful and innovative production companies in the industry,” said Universal Pictures president Peter Cramer. “We are excited to welcome Michael and Brad to the Universal lot and look forward to building upon their amazing track record at Platinum Dunes for many years to come.”

Bay created Platinum Dunes with Fuller and then-partner Andrew Form...

Exclusive: After parting ways for a brief time, Michael Bay and Brad Fuller are teaming back up, with Fuller returning to Platinum Dunes and the producing duo signing an overall deal with Universal Pictures. With more than 2.7 billion in box office grosses since its founding in 2001, the company’s credits include some of the most iconic genre films in recent history, from the reinvigorated Texas Chainsaw Massacre series to two A Quiet Place movies as well as Universal’s successful The Purge and Ouija franchises. Today’s announcement was made by Universal Pictures president Peter Cramer.

“Michael Bay is not only one of the world’s preeminent directors, but together with Brad Fuller, he has established Platinum Dunes as one of the most consistently successful and innovative production companies in the industry,” said Cramer. “We are excited to welcome Michael and Brad to the Universal lot and look forward to...

Last week, Academy Award winning actress and Un Messenger of Peace, Charlize Theron hosted the second annual summer block party to benefit The Charlize Theron Africa Outreach Project (Ctaop) at Universal Studios Backlot.

Wyclef Jean and Charlize Theron attend Charlize Theron's Africa Outreach Project (Ctaop) Block Party at Universal Studios Backlot

Credit/Copyright: Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images for Ctaop

The outdoor event featured an opening weekend screening of Jurassic World Dominion following a special Q&a with the stars of the film, including Jeff Goldblum, Bryce Dallas Howard, DeWanda Wise, and Mamoudou Athie, as well as director Colin Trevorrow and writer, Emily Carmichael. The conversation was moderated by Charlize. Wyclef Jean also brought the audience to their feet with a special performance of “No Woman, No Cry,” “Ready or Not,” “Maria Maria,” and “Hips Don’t Lie” ahead of the Q&a.

Additional guests in attendance included Jordana Brewster, Lilly Singh,...

Nicholas Sparks, the author of romantic weepies like “The Notebook,” “A Walk to Remember,” “Dear John” and “The Last Song,” is partnering with Universal Pictures to produce three feature films.

The movies will be based on some of his recent novels, including “The Wish,” an emotional story about first love. During the pandemic alone, Sparks churned out “The Return,” which was published in September 2020 and recently optioned for film, as well as “The Wish,” which came out in September 2021. His 23rd novel, “Dreamland,” will be published in September 2022.

Tuesday’s announcement comes as part of a first-look production agreement between Sparks and Universal.

Zack Hayden will produce “The Wish” on behalf of Anonymous Content with oversight by Anonymous Content CEO Dawn Olmstead and Cco David Levin. They will work alongside Sparks’ longtime literary agent and collaborator Theresa Park, as well as Universal Pictures’ VP of production development Lexi Barta.

“Nick...