Amanda Shires played the first of two scheduled concerts opening for Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit on Thursday night, more than three months after news broke in February that the beloved Americana couple were divorcing. According to those in attendance at Mission Ballroom in Denver and social media posts, including several shared from her Instagram account, Shires delivered a stunning performance, storming headlong into any awkwardness that appearing on a bill with Isbell — announced back in October — might suggest.
Even Isbell said so, thanking Shires onstage and adding, “I’ve...
Even Isbell said so, thanking Shires onstage and adding, “I’ve...
- 5/3/2024
- by Joseph Hudak
- Rollingstone.com
Times are changing. And for the better. Over the course of the past decade, the industry has achieved great heights in promoting inclusivity. The atmosphere has improved and sections who were once shunned have luckily been able to put the days of discrimination behind. It was for this reason that Hilary Swank has revealed that she would refuse to do a role that would go on to win her an Academy Award.
Hilary Swank says she doubts being a part of this iconic film Boys Don’t Cry was a good one for Hilary Swank
Queer people were not always welcome in the Industry. It would be wrong to say that they insinuate that the days of discrimination are gone. But we’ve come a long way. And Hilary Swank knows that better than anyone.
Suggested“If it gets to your heart, that’s it”: Hilary Swank Kept a Deadly...
Hilary Swank says she doubts being a part of this iconic film Boys Don’t Cry was a good one for Hilary Swank
Queer people were not always welcome in the Industry. It would be wrong to say that they insinuate that the days of discrimination are gone. But we’ve come a long way. And Hilary Swank knows that better than anyone.
Suggested“If it gets to your heart, that’s it”: Hilary Swank Kept a Deadly...
- 4/21/2024
- by Smriti Sneh
- FandomWire
Hilary Swank wouldn't take her Oscar-winning role in 'Boys Don't Cry' today.The 49-year-old star shot to fame when she played Brandon Teena, a trans man who was murdered in a hate crime, in the 1999 drama and she thinks if it was remade now, the role would offer a "great opportunity" for a trans actor, but she defended taking the role herself, insisting it was "such different times" back then.She told The Times' Saturday Review: "Now for the most part, in most places, it’s accepted to be a trans person. [But] at that time, people weren’t even coming out as gay and lesbian, it was a career killer, or whatever. They weren’t ready to tell their family, or maybe they weren’t even ready to tell themselves."We’re in such different times — I feel like it would be a great opportunity for an actor...
- 4/21/2024
- by Viki Waters
- Bang Showbiz
Hilary Swank is reflecting on her Boys Don’t Cry role again and voicing her hope that a trans actor would get her role if they movie were made today.
The 49-year-old actress earned her first Oscar back in 2000 for her work in the indie movie about the real-life story of trans man Brandon Teena.
Hilary acknowledged in a new interview that the world was different nearly 25 years ago and there weren’t many actors who were openly gay or trans at the time.
Keep reading to find out more…
“Now for the most part, in most places, it’s accepted to be a trans person. [But] at that time, people weren’t even coming out as gay and lesbian, it was a career killer, or whatever. They weren’t ready to tell their family, or maybe they weren’t even ready to tell themselves. We’re in such different times — I...
The 49-year-old actress earned her first Oscar back in 2000 for her work in the indie movie about the real-life story of trans man Brandon Teena.
Hilary acknowledged in a new interview that the world was different nearly 25 years ago and there weren’t many actors who were openly gay or trans at the time.
Keep reading to find out more…
“Now for the most part, in most places, it’s accepted to be a trans person. [But] at that time, people weren’t even coming out as gay and lesbian, it was a career killer, or whatever. They weren’t ready to tell their family, or maybe they weren’t even ready to tell themselves. We’re in such different times — I...
- 4/21/2024
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
Hilary Swank has reflected on her role in Boys Don’t Cry two decades ago, saying changing awareness means she wouldn’t take the part today.
Swank won her first Oscar for the role of real-life transgender man Brandon Teena, murdered in a hate crime, in the movie which was released in 2000. She told The Times of London newspaper:
“Now for the most part, in most places, it’s accepted to be a trans person. [But] at that time, people weren’t even coming out as gay and lesbian, it was a career killer, or whatever. They weren’t ready to tell their family, or maybe they weren’t even ready to tell themselves. We’re in such different times — I feel like it would be a great opportunity for an actor who’s trans to play that role.”
Swank added: “But I also feel like actors are actors. We are supposed...
Swank won her first Oscar for the role of real-life transgender man Brandon Teena, murdered in a hate crime, in the movie which was released in 2000. She told The Times of London newspaper:
“Now for the most part, in most places, it’s accepted to be a trans person. [But] at that time, people weren’t even coming out as gay and lesbian, it was a career killer, or whatever. They weren’t ready to tell their family, or maybe they weren’t even ready to tell themselves. We’re in such different times — I feel like it would be a great opportunity for an actor who’s trans to play that role.”
Swank added: “But I also feel like actors are actors. We are supposed...
- 4/20/2024
- by Caroline Frost
- Deadline Film + TV
Think about the experience of sitting and watching a movie. What is it about that big, wonderful image that connects with you? If you’re a diehard cineaste the answer might be the film’s cinematography or its use of music, special effects, sound design or something else. But for most audiences, chances are that the primary point of connection is the characters—and probably the actors embodying them.
It’s these performances that we identify with, root against and even lust after. But as much as their agents and managers might care for you to believe otherwise, actors don’t pop up in these roles by accident. Enter the Casting Director.
One of the most important (and unsung) positions on any film crew, the Casting Director is the person responsible for assembling the actors tasked with translating the script’s character description and dialogue into flesh-and-blood.
Below, we’ve...
It’s these performances that we identify with, root against and even lust after. But as much as their agents and managers might care for you to believe otherwise, actors don’t pop up in these roles by accident. Enter the Casting Director.
One of the most important (and unsung) positions on any film crew, the Casting Director is the person responsible for assembling the actors tasked with translating the script’s character description and dialogue into flesh-and-blood.
Below, we’ve...
- 3/18/2024
- by Matt Warren
- Film Independent News & More
“Do I look like a monk?” Chloë Sevigny asks the room.
We’re in the Lower East Side apartment of Chris Peters, the head designer of the fashion label Puppets and Puppets, and Sevigny is trying on the sequined gown she plans to wear at a fundraiser for Tibet House that night. But she worries the outfit’s long sleeve, which begins at the hem, drapes around Sevigny’s neck like a scarf, and extends to her left wrist, evokes the robes favored by the Buddhist figures whose traditions the organization highlights. As the sun beats through Peters’ window, cascading along the dress’s spangles and filling the room with reflected light, Sevigny is more reminiscent of a disco ball than the Dalai Lama.
Peters quickly reassures her. “I wouldn’t say it feels monastic. It’s an odd kind of ’30s glam. You look incredible.”
Sevigny tilts her head,...
We’re in the Lower East Side apartment of Chris Peters, the head designer of the fashion label Puppets and Puppets, and Sevigny is trying on the sequined gown she plans to wear at a fundraiser for Tibet House that night. But she worries the outfit’s long sleeve, which begins at the hem, drapes around Sevigny’s neck like a scarf, and extends to her left wrist, evokes the robes favored by the Buddhist figures whose traditions the organization highlights. As the sun beats through Peters’ window, cascading along the dress’s spangles and filling the room with reflected light, Sevigny is more reminiscent of a disco ball than the Dalai Lama.
Peters quickly reassures her. “I wouldn’t say it feels monastic. It’s an odd kind of ’30s glam. You look incredible.”
Sevigny tilts her head,...
- 3/13/2024
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Searchlight Pictures picked up four big Oscar wins for “Poor Things” at the 96th Academy Awards on Sunday, March 10. Most notably, Emma Stone won Best Actress after a nail-biting race with SAG Award winner Lily Gladstone (“Killers of the Flower Moon”). The other nominees were Annette Bening (“Nyad”), Sandra Hüller (“Anatomy of a Fall”) and Carey Mulligan (“Maestro”).
Hilary Swank became the first leading lady to take home the gold for Searchlight (then called Fox Searchlight Pictures) for “Boys Don’t Cry” in 2000. Next was Natalie Portman, who won for “Black Swan” in 2011. But over the last decade, the production company has established its dominance as one of the top film studios for female-driven Oscar powerhouses. Stone is the fifth Best Actress winner in seven years following Frances McDormand in 2018, Olivia Colman (“The Favourite”) in 2019, McDormand again for “Nomadland” in 2021 and Jessica Chastain (“The Eyes of Tammy Faye”) in 2022.
See 2024 Oscar...
Hilary Swank became the first leading lady to take home the gold for Searchlight (then called Fox Searchlight Pictures) for “Boys Don’t Cry” in 2000. Next was Natalie Portman, who won for “Black Swan” in 2011. But over the last decade, the production company has established its dominance as one of the top film studios for female-driven Oscar powerhouses. Stone is the fifth Best Actress winner in seven years following Frances McDormand in 2018, Olivia Colman (“The Favourite”) in 2019, McDormand again for “Nomadland” in 2021 and Jessica Chastain (“The Eyes of Tammy Faye”) in 2022.
See 2024 Oscar...
- 3/11/2024
- by Denton Davidson
- Gold Derby
The 96th Academy Award Ceremony is approaching, and the buzz around the Oscars has evolved to an astounding height. Looking back at history, the Oscars have created several significant moments elevating actor’s career. However, all stars don’t have the same blessing.
Matthew McConaughey in Dallas Buyers Club
Who wouldn’t want to win an Oscar? The award has been one of the most prestigious accolades for achievement in almost every category related to movies. However, in another turn of events, winning an Oscar may not be as good as you might think. An idea called the Oscars Curse has altered the fate of several celebrities, including Matthew McConaughey and Halle Berry.
Oscars Curse Victims, Matthew McConaughey, and Halle Berry Are Among Prominent
Halle Berry in Monster’s Ball
Several actors have witnessed the downfall of their careers after winning an Oscar. Of course, any filmmaker and actor or anyone...
Matthew McConaughey in Dallas Buyers Club
Who wouldn’t want to win an Oscar? The award has been one of the most prestigious accolades for achievement in almost every category related to movies. However, in another turn of events, winning an Oscar may not be as good as you might think. An idea called the Oscars Curse has altered the fate of several celebrities, including Matthew McConaughey and Halle Berry.
Oscars Curse Victims, Matthew McConaughey, and Halle Berry Are Among Prominent
Halle Berry in Monster’s Ball
Several actors have witnessed the downfall of their careers after winning an Oscar. Of course, any filmmaker and actor or anyone...
- 3/9/2024
- by Lachit Roy
- FandomWire
What Oscar records will be broken and which ones will remain intact at the 96th Academy Awards ceremony March 10. With a win, Billie Eilish, 22, and Finneas, 26, would become the youngest artists ever to win two Oscars before the age of 30. The pair won for James Bond theme “No Time to Die” in 2022, and are nominated this year for “What Was I Made For,” from “Barbie.” Only three individuals have clinched two Oscars before turning 30: Luise Rainer earned back to back Oscars by the time she was 28 for “The Great Ziegfeld” (1936) and “The Good Earth” (1937); Jodie Foster in 1989 for “The Accused” (age 26) and in 1992 for “The Silence of the Lambs” (29); and Hilary Swank in 2000 for “Boys Don’t Cry” (26) and in 2005 for “Million Dollar Baby” (29).
Meanwhile, Diane Warren faces a less enviable milestone with her 15th nomination for “The Fire Inside” from “Flamin’ Hot,” potentially tying with the late Alex North...
Meanwhile, Diane Warren faces a less enviable milestone with her 15th nomination for “The Fire Inside” from “Flamin’ Hot,” potentially tying with the late Alex North...
- 3/8/2024
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
Variety Awards Circuit section is the home for all awards news and related content throughout the year, featuring the following: the official predictions for the upcoming Oscars, Emmys, Grammys and Tony Awards ceremonies, curated by Variety senior awards editor Clayton Davis. The prediction pages reflect the current standings in the race and do not reflect personal preferences for any individual contender. As other formal (and informal) polls suggest, competitions are fluid and subject to change based on buzz and events. Predictions are updated every Thursday.
Visit the prediction pages for the respective ceremonies via the links below:
Oscars | Emmys | Grammys | Tonys
2024 Oscars Predictions:
Best Original Song Barbie
Weekly Commentary: With an original song win, Billie Eilish, 22, and Finneas, 26, would become the youngest artists ever to win two Oscars before the age of 30. The pair won for James Bond theme “No Time to Die” in 2022, and are nominated this year for “What Was I Made For,...
Visit the prediction pages for the respective ceremonies via the links below:
Oscars | Emmys | Grammys | Tonys
2024 Oscars Predictions:
Best Original Song Barbie
Weekly Commentary: With an original song win, Billie Eilish, 22, and Finneas, 26, would become the youngest artists ever to win two Oscars before the age of 30. The pair won for James Bond theme “No Time to Die” in 2022, and are nominated this year for “What Was I Made For,...
- 3/7/2024
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
Hilary Swank is addressing former CBS chairman and CEO Les Moonves.
The 49-year-old actress discussing the exec dissing her as “too half-hour” to star in one of his network dramas while talking to Rob Lowe on his Literally! podcast.
During the interview, she recalled a moment early in her career, which Rob said was one of his “favorite Hilary memories.”
Keep reading to find out more…
Hilary had been auditioning for a role on an hour-long CBS pilot, and when it was between her and one other actress, Les dismissed her and chose to cast the other actress.
“He said, yeah, ‘You’re just too half-hour.’ Not even funny. He didn’t even say I was funny or comedic. I was too half hour,” she said.
Rob described it as being labelled “too multi-camera,” or a sitcom actress.
But had this not happened, she wouldn’t have gone on to...
The 49-year-old actress discussing the exec dissing her as “too half-hour” to star in one of his network dramas while talking to Rob Lowe on his Literally! podcast.
During the interview, she recalled a moment early in her career, which Rob said was one of his “favorite Hilary memories.”
Keep reading to find out more…
Hilary had been auditioning for a role on an hour-long CBS pilot, and when it was between her and one other actress, Les dismissed her and chose to cast the other actress.
“He said, yeah, ‘You’re just too half-hour.’ Not even funny. He didn’t even say I was funny or comedic. I was too half hour,” she said.
Rob described it as being labelled “too multi-camera,” or a sitcom actress.
But had this not happened, she wouldn’t have gone on to...
- 3/3/2024
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
Christine Vachon doesn’t mess around. She is a film professor, best-selling film book author, wife, mother of a film marketing professional, and most of all, producer of independent films. They’re often directed by her close friend and fellow Brown alumnus Todd Haynes. She launched her career at Sundance 1991 with her first feature film, Haynes’ “Poison,” which won the Grand Jury Prize.
Since 1995, she and her producing partner Pam Koffler’s company Killer Films has steadily produced hundreds of movies and television series. Many have won prizes and nominations over the years for the likes of Hilary Swank (“Boys Don’t Cry”), Julianne Moore (“Still Alice”) and Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara (“Carol”), but this year’s Best Picture Oscar nomination for Celine Song’s “Past Lives” is Killer’s first.
New York-based Vachon was packing her bags for the Berlin International Film Festival when we spoke on Zoom, a...
Since 1995, she and her producing partner Pam Koffler’s company Killer Films has steadily produced hundreds of movies and television series. Many have won prizes and nominations over the years for the likes of Hilary Swank (“Boys Don’t Cry”), Julianne Moore (“Still Alice”) and Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara (“Carol”), but this year’s Best Picture Oscar nomination for Celine Song’s “Past Lives” is Killer’s first.
New York-based Vachon was packing her bags for the Berlin International Film Festival when we spoke on Zoom, a...
- 2/26/2024
- by Anne Thompson
- Indiewire
The film and TV star on leading his girlfriends on, working for rich people, and why most vehicles should be banned from New York
Born in Illinois, Sarsgaard, 52, appeared in Boys Don’t Cry with Hilary Swank in 1999. His other films include Shattered Glass, An Education, Jarhead, The Lost Daughter, The Batman and The Survivor. His TV work includes The Killing, The Looming Tower, Interrogation and Dopesick, for which he was nominated for an Emmy in 2022. Memory, which is in cinemas now, was nominated for the Golden Lion for best film at last year’s Venice film festival and won him the best actor award. He is married to Maggie Gyllenhaal, they have two children and live in New York.
What is your greatest fear?
Drowning.
Born in Illinois, Sarsgaard, 52, appeared in Boys Don’t Cry with Hilary Swank in 1999. His other films include Shattered Glass, An Education, Jarhead, The Lost Daughter, The Batman and The Survivor. His TV work includes The Killing, The Looming Tower, Interrogation and Dopesick, for which he was nominated for an Emmy in 2022. Memory, which is in cinemas now, was nominated for the Golden Lion for best film at last year’s Venice film festival and won him the best actor award. He is married to Maggie Gyllenhaal, they have two children and live in New York.
What is your greatest fear?
Drowning.
- 2/24/2024
- by Rosanna Greenstreet
- The Guardian - Film News
Hilary Swank as Sharon in Ordinary Angels. Photo Credit: Allen Fraser Hilary Swank won the first of her two Oscars for playing a real-life character in Boys Don’t Cry. Between feature films and television movies, she’s made a habit of playing real-life figures — at least 10 of them, including her role in the new films Ordinary Angels. In the film, she plays a Kentucky woman who helps save the life of a young girl during a snowstorm that paralyzed the region. When we spoke to Swank about the movie, she said she loves bringing these kinds of true stories to life on the screen. (Click on the media bar below to hear Hilary Swank) https://www.hollywoodoutbreak.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Hillary_Swank_love_for_True_Life_Cahrachters_.mp3 Ordinary Angels opens in theaters on February 23.
The post Hilary Swank Keeps It Real (Again) With ‘Ordinary Angels’ Role appeared first on Hollywood Outbreak.
The post Hilary Swank Keeps It Real (Again) With ‘Ordinary Angels’ Role appeared first on Hollywood Outbreak.
- 2/8/2024
- by Hollywood Outbreak
- HollywoodOutbreak.com
The Cure’s double live album, Paris, celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2024. To mark the occasion, Rhino Records has announced a new reissue set for release on March 22nd.
The live recording was remastered by The Cure’s Robert Smith and Miles Showell at Abby Road Studios in London. As part of the process, Smith included two previously unreleased tracks, “Shake Dog Shake” and “Hot Hot Hot!!!”, and reconfigured the tracklist.
The 30th anniversary of Paris will be available as a 1xCD or 2xLP set. Pre-orders are now ongoing.
Paris is the second of two live albums documenting The Cure’s 1992 tour in support of Wish. The first live album, Show, was reissued last year.
The Cure have long been teasing a new album called Songs of a Lost World, but there’s still no word on a release date. The band recently wrapped up their triumphant “Shows of a Lost World Tour,...
The live recording was remastered by The Cure’s Robert Smith and Miles Showell at Abby Road Studios in London. As part of the process, Smith included two previously unreleased tracks, “Shake Dog Shake” and “Hot Hot Hot!!!”, and reconfigured the tracklist.
The 30th anniversary of Paris will be available as a 1xCD or 2xLP set. Pre-orders are now ongoing.
Paris is the second of two live albums documenting The Cure’s 1992 tour in support of Wish. The first live album, Show, was reissued last year.
The Cure have long been teasing a new album called Songs of a Lost World, but there’s still no word on a release date. The band recently wrapped up their triumphant “Shows of a Lost World Tour,...
- 2/8/2024
- by Scoop Harrison
- Consequence - Music
The marriage of Jason Isbell and Amanda Shires, two pillars of the country and Americana music worlds, has struck its final chord.
Isbell filed for divorce from Shires after nearly 11 years of marriage on Dec. 15, 2023, according to court records reviewed by Rolling Stone. Isbell is a critically acclaimed singer-songwriter who, for the last decade, has led his band, the 400 Unit; Shires is both a respected solo artist, a member of the Highwomen supergroup, and an occasional member of Isbell’s band. At last Sunday’s Grammy Awards, Isbell and the 400 Unit won two Grammys,...
Isbell filed for divorce from Shires after nearly 11 years of marriage on Dec. 15, 2023, according to court records reviewed by Rolling Stone. Isbell is a critically acclaimed singer-songwriter who, for the last decade, has led his band, the 400 Unit; Shires is both a respected solo artist, a member of the Highwomen supergroup, and an occasional member of Isbell’s band. At last Sunday’s Grammy Awards, Isbell and the 400 Unit won two Grammys,...
- 2/8/2024
- by David Browne
- Rollingstone.com
Throughout the 96-year history of the Academy Awards, the amount of acting lineups consisting only of first-time nominees has reached 37, or about 10% of the overall total. While that number may not seem high in a general sense, these cases actually outnumber those exclusively involving veteran contenders by a ratio of three to one. However, although this list expanded as recently as 2023, rookie-only acting lineups are gradually becoming less common than veteran-only ones, the amount of which has nearly doubled within the last dozen years.
Whereas 75% of veteran-only acting quintets have involved lead performers rather than supporting ones, almost the exact opposite is true of lineups full of newcomers. For instance, only one existing case of the former kind concerns supporting actresses, whereas the same category has produced 15 rookie-only rosters. The last such group consisted of 2000 winner Angelina Jolie and nominees Toni Collette (“The Sixth Sense”), Catherine Keener (“Being John Malkovich...
Whereas 75% of veteran-only acting quintets have involved lead performers rather than supporting ones, almost the exact opposite is true of lineups full of newcomers. For instance, only one existing case of the former kind concerns supporting actresses, whereas the same category has produced 15 rookie-only rosters. The last such group consisted of 2000 winner Angelina Jolie and nominees Toni Collette (“The Sixth Sense”), Catherine Keener (“Being John Malkovich...
- 2/7/2024
- by Matthew Stewart
- Gold Derby
Who better to play a New York high society socialite than Chloë Sevigny, the former club kid turned fashionista who was profiled by Jay McInerney for The New Yorker at 19?
In 1995, one year after that infamous piece hit newsstands, Sevigny would star as a Manhattan teen who discovers she’s HIV positive in Kids, written by her pal Harmony Korine. The film was almost immediately cemented as a cult classic, sending her down an arthouse-cinema path that’s included Gummo, Boys Don’t Cry (earning her an Oscar nomination), American Psycho,...
In 1995, one year after that infamous piece hit newsstands, Sevigny would star as a Manhattan teen who discovers she’s HIV positive in Kids, written by her pal Harmony Korine. The film was almost immediately cemented as a cult classic, sending her down an arthouse-cinema path that’s included Gummo, Boys Don’t Cry (earning her an Oscar nomination), American Psycho,...
- 1/31/2024
- by Marlow Stern
- Rollingstone.com
In January of 1999, two teen movies opened back to back and kicked off what would be one of the most extraordinary years for youth-oriented movies in the history of Hollywood. Both were No. 1 at the box office their first weekend. Both boasted remarkable casts of rising stars — they even shared a star in Paul Walker. And both whipped ancient genre conventions into new combinations that made them fresh and new. Yet for all their similarities, “Varsity Blues” and “She’s All That” couldn’t have been more different: one an R-rated sports drama that tempered its inspirational coming-of-age drama with surprisingly harsh depictions of misogyny and physical and mental abuse, the other a sweet, good-natured romantic comedy nearly as innocent as a Mickey Rooney-Judy Garland vehicle from the 1940s. In their similarities and differences lies the key to why 1999 was such a great year for movies of their type — the 1939 of teen movies.
- 1/30/2024
- by Jim Hemphill
- Indiewire
Annette Bening is an actor’s actor. Like many of the greats before her, she began her career in the theatre. Through the 80s, she quietly compiled a library of rich, complex characters before making her Tony-nominated broadway debut in 1987’s “Coastal Disturbances.”
Bening then made her well deserved transition over to Hollywood with John Hughes’ “The Great Outdoors.” The film didn’t perform as well as hoped, nor did Milos Forman’s “Valmont” which was released the following year, but they both paved the way for Bening’s eventual Oscar-nominated breakout as Myra Langtry in Stephen Frears’ “The Grifters.”
She got particularly close to Oscar gold with “American Beauty” in 2000. Annette bagged the BAFTA and SAG award for her iconic portrayal of the colourfully volatile wife-in-crisis, Carolyn Burnham. She lost to Hilary Swank (“Boys Don’t Cry”) though, who had edged her out at the Globes.
Swank clearly was Bening’s kryptonite,...
Bening then made her well deserved transition over to Hollywood with John Hughes’ “The Great Outdoors.” The film didn’t perform as well as hoped, nor did Milos Forman’s “Valmont” which was released the following year, but they both paved the way for Bening’s eventual Oscar-nominated breakout as Myra Langtry in Stephen Frears’ “The Grifters.”
She got particularly close to Oscar gold with “American Beauty” in 2000. Annette bagged the BAFTA and SAG award for her iconic portrayal of the colourfully volatile wife-in-crisis, Carolyn Burnham. She lost to Hilary Swank (“Boys Don’t Cry”) though, who had edged her out at the Globes.
Swank clearly was Bening’s kryptonite,...
- 1/22/2024
- by Nick Bisa
- Gold Derby
Cooper Koch, Chloe Sevigny, Nicholas Alexander Chavez, and Javier Bardem
Oscar winner Javier Bardem (No Country for Old Men) has signed on to play Jose Menendez and Oscar nominee Chloë Sevigny (Boys Don’t Cry) will star as Kitty Menendez in Netflix’s next installment of Monster. The anthology series kicked off with a season focused on Jeffrey Dahmer, and Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story dives into the rich brothers who were convicted of killing their parents.
Alexander Chavez (General Hospital) has come on board as Lyle Menendez and Cooper Koch (They/Them) will play Erik Menendez. The Monster anthology series was created by Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan, with both serving as executive producers. Additional executive producers include Alexis Martin Woodall, Eric Kovtun, David McMillan, Louise Shore, and Carl Franklin.
Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story premiered in September 2022 and starred Evan Peters in the titular role. Dahmer...
Oscar winner Javier Bardem (No Country for Old Men) has signed on to play Jose Menendez and Oscar nominee Chloë Sevigny (Boys Don’t Cry) will star as Kitty Menendez in Netflix’s next installment of Monster. The anthology series kicked off with a season focused on Jeffrey Dahmer, and Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story dives into the rich brothers who were convicted of killing their parents.
Alexander Chavez (General Hospital) has come on board as Lyle Menendez and Cooper Koch (They/Them) will play Erik Menendez. The Monster anthology series was created by Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan, with both serving as executive producers. Additional executive producers include Alexis Martin Woodall, Eric Kovtun, David McMillan, Louise Shore, and Carl Franklin.
Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story premiered in September 2022 and starred Evan Peters in the titular role. Dahmer...
- 1/15/2024
- by Rebecca Murray
- Showbiz Junkies
The next chapter of Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan’s Monster anthology series has gained some significant star power as Javier Bardem and Chloë Sevigny join the cast as the parents of the Menéndez Brothers, José and Mary Louise “Kitty” Menéndez. The upcoming season, officially titled Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menéndez Story, focuses on the Menéndez brothers, who were convicted of the murders of their parents in 1996.
According to authorities, the brothers murdered their parents to inherit their father’s fortune. However, the brothers say they killed their parents after years of mental and physical abuse. Nicholas Alexander Chavez (General Hospital) and Copper Koch (They/Them) play Lyle Menendez and Erik Menéndez, respectively.
Ryan Murphy, Ian Brennan, Alexis Martin Woodall, Eric Kovtun, David McMillan, Louise Shore, and Carl Franklin executive produce. The previous chapter of Murphy and Brennan’s anthology, Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story, reached 1 billion...
According to authorities, the brothers murdered their parents to inherit their father’s fortune. However, the brothers say they killed their parents after years of mental and physical abuse. Nicholas Alexander Chavez (General Hospital) and Copper Koch (They/Them) play Lyle Menendez and Erik Menéndez, respectively.
Ryan Murphy, Ian Brennan, Alexis Martin Woodall, Eric Kovtun, David McMillan, Louise Shore, and Carl Franklin executive produce. The previous chapter of Murphy and Brennan’s anthology, Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story, reached 1 billion...
- 1/15/2024
- by Steve Seigh
- JoBlo.com
Javier Bardem and Chloë Sevigny have joined “Monster” Season 2 at Netflix, Variety has learned.
The two A-listers join previously announced stars Cooper Koch and Nicholas Alexander Chavez in the upcoming season of the anthology series, which will focus on the Menéndez brothers. The season is officially titled “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menéndez Story” and is slated to debut later in 2024.
Erik (Koch) and Lyle Menéndez (Chavez) were convicted of the murders of their parents, José (Bardem) and Mary Louise “Kitty” Menéndez (Sevigny), in 1996. Authorities argued the brothers committed the murders to inherit their father’s fortune, while the brothers maintained that they killed their parents after years of mental and physical abuse.
“Monster” was co-created by Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan. Both serve as executive producers along with Alexis Martin Woodall, Eric Kovtun, David McMillan, Louise Shore, and Carl Franklin. The first season focused on serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer.
The two A-listers join previously announced stars Cooper Koch and Nicholas Alexander Chavez in the upcoming season of the anthology series, which will focus on the Menéndez brothers. The season is officially titled “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menéndez Story” and is slated to debut later in 2024.
Erik (Koch) and Lyle Menéndez (Chavez) were convicted of the murders of their parents, José (Bardem) and Mary Louise “Kitty” Menéndez (Sevigny), in 1996. Authorities argued the brothers committed the murders to inherit their father’s fortune, while the brothers maintained that they killed their parents after years of mental and physical abuse.
“Monster” was co-created by Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan. Both serve as executive producers along with Alexis Martin Woodall, Eric Kovtun, David McMillan, Louise Shore, and Carl Franklin. The first season focused on serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer.
- 1/15/2024
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Annette Bening is joining Maggie Gyllenhaal’s Frankenstein lore feature at Warner Bros; the studio making it official that this is a go-project. Cameras roll in Q1. This package with its attachments has been out there since it was at Netflix, and the deals have finally closed with everyone. Jessie Buckley is the star of the movie which follows Frankenstein’s pursuit of love.
There’s already been word out there about the cast, including Buckley, and it’s a murderers’ row with Christian Bale, Penélope Cruz, and Peter Sarsgaard. Bale and Buckley have been circling this project well before the strikes.
Logline: A lonely Frankenstein travels to 1930s Chicago to seek the aide of a Dr. Euphronius in creating a companion for himself. The two reinvigorate a murdered young woman and the Bride is born. She is beyond what either of them intended, igniting a combustible romance, the...
There’s already been word out there about the cast, including Buckley, and it’s a murderers’ row with Christian Bale, Penélope Cruz, and Peter Sarsgaard. Bale and Buckley have been circling this project well before the strikes.
Logline: A lonely Frankenstein travels to 1930s Chicago to seek the aide of a Dr. Euphronius in creating a companion for himself. The two reinvigorate a murdered young woman and the Bride is born. She is beyond what either of them intended, igniting a combustible romance, the...
- 1/12/2024
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
The current Oscar frontrunners for Best Actor and Best Actress according to the combined predictions of Gold Derby users are Cillian Murphy (“Oppenheimer”) and Emma Stone (“Poor Things”). However, they both face serious competition from the stars of “Maestro,” Bradley Cooper and Carey Mulligan. If the co-stars both win, “Maestro” would be the first film since “As Good As It Gets” to win both lead acting Oscars.
SEEBradley Cooper (‘Maestro’) makes Critics Choice Awards history
“Maestro” chronicles the decades-long relationship between conductor-composer Leonard Bernstein (Cooper) and actress Felicia Montealegre (Mulligan). Their love story spans over 30 years from the time they met at a party in 1946 and continuing through their quarter-century marriage. But winning matching Oscars isn’t easy. To date only seven films have won both lead acting awards. They are:
“It Happened One Night” (1934) – Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert
“One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” (1975) – Jack Nicholson and Louise Fletcher...
SEEBradley Cooper (‘Maestro’) makes Critics Choice Awards history
“Maestro” chronicles the decades-long relationship between conductor-composer Leonard Bernstein (Cooper) and actress Felicia Montealegre (Mulligan). Their love story spans over 30 years from the time they met at a party in 1946 and continuing through their quarter-century marriage. But winning matching Oscars isn’t easy. To date only seven films have won both lead acting awards. They are:
“It Happened One Night” (1934) – Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert
“One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” (1975) – Jack Nicholson and Louise Fletcher...
- 12/27/2023
- by Jeffrey Kare
- Gold Derby
Michelle Yeoh won Best Actress last year for “Everything Everywhere All at Once,” a dazzling fictional tale of a woman trying to save the multiverse. However, when we think of typical Best Actress winners, we do think of performers portraying real-life people. Sally Field in “Norma Rae” comes to mind, so, too, do Julia Roberts in “Erin Brockovich,” Sandra Bullock in “The Blind Side,” and Meryl Streep in “The Iron Lady.”
But is this an old-fashioned way of thinking? Or is it still a relevant metric with which to measure to potential Best Actress winners. Lily Gladstone portrays a real person in “Killers of the Flower Moon” but Emma Stone is the Oscar favorite for “Poor Things,” in which she plays a fictional character. So, let’s take a look a closer look at this category and what sort of roles Best Actress winners typically win for. Below is a...
But is this an old-fashioned way of thinking? Or is it still a relevant metric with which to measure to potential Best Actress winners. Lily Gladstone portrays a real person in “Killers of the Flower Moon” but Emma Stone is the Oscar favorite for “Poor Things,” in which she plays a fictional character. So, let’s take a look a closer look at this category and what sort of roles Best Actress winners typically win for. Below is a...
- 12/20/2023
- by Jacob Sarkisian
- Gold Derby
When Billie Eilish won the 2022 Oscar for Best Original Song for “No Time To Die” from the James Bond film of the same name, she narrowly missed out on making history as the youngest winner in the category. At the time, Eilish was 20 years old — her brother and collaborator Finneas O’Connell was 24 — but 2008’s winner Markéta Irglová had her beat by one year, winning for the “Once” song “Falling Slowly” at just 19.
This time around Eilish and O’Connell have their eyes set on an even more impressive record. They’re eligible in the Best Original Song category this year for “What Was I Made For?” from “Barbie,” a tearjerker of a song that plays over a pivotal final moment in Greta Gerwig’s film. According to our current combined odds, the song is far and away the frontrunner for the Oscar, leading a pack that also includes the “Barbie” standout track “I’m Just Ken.
This time around Eilish and O’Connell have their eyes set on an even more impressive record. They’re eligible in the Best Original Song category this year for “What Was I Made For?” from “Barbie,” a tearjerker of a song that plays over a pivotal final moment in Greta Gerwig’s film. According to our current combined odds, the song is far and away the frontrunner for the Oscar, leading a pack that also includes the “Barbie” standout track “I’m Just Ken.
- 12/19/2023
- by David Buchanan
- Gold Derby
“May December,” the newest acclaimed drama film from Todd Haynes, is now available to stream on Netflix, and one of the film’s stars, Julianne Moore, is already an early favorite to receive a Best Supporting Actress Oscar nomination for her spellbinding performance. Let’s look back at her five Academy Award races and talk about why Moore finally won her first gold trophy in 2015 for “Still Alice” (2014).
Her first Oscar nomination came in 1998 in the Best Supporting Actress category for “Boogie Nights” (1997). Moore’s only Academy Award nom of the 1990s put her up against Joan Cusack for “In & Out,” Minnie Driver for “Good Will Hunting,” Gloria Stuart for “Titanic” and Kim Basinger for “L.A. Confidential.” Moore didn’t have a chance that first time around because Basinger dominated the category all season, her beloved film often showing up in the Best Picture and Best Director categories,...
Her first Oscar nomination came in 1998 in the Best Supporting Actress category for “Boogie Nights” (1997). Moore’s only Academy Award nom of the 1990s put her up against Joan Cusack for “In & Out,” Minnie Driver for “Good Will Hunting,” Gloria Stuart for “Titanic” and Kim Basinger for “L.A. Confidential.” Moore didn’t have a chance that first time around because Basinger dominated the category all season, her beloved film often showing up in the Best Picture and Best Director categories,...
- 12/12/2023
- by Brian Rowe
- Gold Derby
Emma Stone won the Best Actress Oscar in 2017 for her role as an actress trying to make it big in Damien Chazelle‘s “La La Land.” Stone has also earned two Best Supporting Actress bids, the first in 2015 for “Birdman” and the second for “The Favourite” in 2019. She reteams with the latter’s director, Yorgos Lanthimos, for Searchlight Pictures’ “Poor Things.” The film, which is out in US theaters on Dec. 8, follows Stone as Bella Baxter — a woman brought back to life by a scientist (Willem Dafoe) and subsequently goes on a journey of self-discovery, meeting a variety of people along the way including a lawyer (Mark Ruffalo) and a potential suitor (Ramy Youssef).
Stone’s performance is remarkable here, as many critics have noted.
Nick Schager (The Daily Beast) declared that Stone will “blow your mind” in the movie, writing: “Nothing overshadows Stone’s odd, amusing and affecting performance as Bella,...
Stone’s performance is remarkable here, as many critics have noted.
Nick Schager (The Daily Beast) declared that Stone will “blow your mind” in the movie, writing: “Nothing overshadows Stone’s odd, amusing and affecting performance as Bella,...
- 10/27/2023
- by Jacob Sarkisian
- Gold Derby
This story about Christine Vachon first appeared in the College Issue of TheWrap’s magazine.
Over the course of more than 30 years and 100 films, Christine Vachon has become one of the most impactful producers of independent film — and as the artistic director of the Mfa program at Stony Brook Manhattan, one of the most intriguing film educators as well. She founded her company, Killer Films, with fellow New York-based producer Pamela Koffler in 1996, five years into a career that had begun with Todd Haynes’ feature debut, “Poison,” and would go on to include every one of Haynes’ movies, among them “Velvet Goldmine,” “Far From Heaven,” “Carol” and the upcoming “May December.”
Vachon’s other films include Larry Clark’s “Kids,” Todd Solondz’s “Happiness,” John Cameron Mitchell’s “Hedwig and the Angry Inch,” Kimberly Peirce’s “Boys Don’t Cry” and Paul Schrader’s “First Reformed.” She’s known for working with young and first-time directors,...
Over the course of more than 30 years and 100 films, Christine Vachon has become one of the most impactful producers of independent film — and as the artistic director of the Mfa program at Stony Brook Manhattan, one of the most intriguing film educators as well. She founded her company, Killer Films, with fellow New York-based producer Pamela Koffler in 1996, five years into a career that had begun with Todd Haynes’ feature debut, “Poison,” and would go on to include every one of Haynes’ movies, among them “Velvet Goldmine,” “Far From Heaven,” “Carol” and the upcoming “May December.”
Vachon’s other films include Larry Clark’s “Kids,” Todd Solondz’s “Happiness,” John Cameron Mitchell’s “Hedwig and the Angry Inch,” Kimberly Peirce’s “Boys Don’t Cry” and Paul Schrader’s “First Reformed.” She’s known for working with young and first-time directors,...
- 10/25/2023
- by Steve Pond
- The Wrap
Chicago – That’s a wrap! The 59th Chicago International Film Festival (Ciff) Closing Night is October 22nd, 2023, with “The Bikeriders,” which is set in Chicago and directed by Jeff Nichols, who will make an appearance on behalf of the film. Click Closing for info and tickets.
“The Bikeriders” is an immersive experience into the look, feel, and sounds of the subculture of ’60s motorcycle riders. Kathy (Jodie Comer), a strong-willed member of the Vandals who’s married to a wild, reckless bikerider named Benny (Austin Butler of “Elvis”), recounts the Vandals’ evolution over the course of a decade, beginning as a local club of outsiders united by good times, rumbling bikes, and respect for their strong, steady leader Johnny (Tom Hardy).
Closing Night Film of the 59th Ciff is ‘The Bikeriders’
Photo credit: Chicago International Film Festival
On the Closing Night of a magnificent 11 Days, a reminder of the presenting...
“The Bikeriders” is an immersive experience into the look, feel, and sounds of the subculture of ’60s motorcycle riders. Kathy (Jodie Comer), a strong-willed member of the Vandals who’s married to a wild, reckless bikerider named Benny (Austin Butler of “Elvis”), recounts the Vandals’ evolution over the course of a decade, beginning as a local club of outsiders united by good times, rumbling bikes, and respect for their strong, steady leader Johnny (Tom Hardy).
Closing Night Film of the 59th Ciff is ‘The Bikeriders’
Photo credit: Chicago International Film Festival
On the Closing Night of a magnificent 11 Days, a reminder of the presenting...
- 10/22/2023
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Netflix’s “Nyad” tells the remarkable true story of swimmer Diana Nyad and her quest to swim from Cuba to Florida while in her sixties. Annette Bening stars in the titular role while Jodie Foster turns in a key supporting performance as Nyad’s coach, Bonnie Stoll. “Nyad,” which is out in US theaters on Oct. 20 before heading to Netflix on November 2, could well earn Bening a fifth Oscar nomination for her title role as the impressive swimmer. But, before that, let’s take a look back at Bening’s four Oscar races to date.
Bening first found herself on the academy’s radar in 1991 for her role in “The Grifters,” Stephen Frears‘ crime thriller about a conman (John Cusack) who finds himself torn between his mother (Anjelica Huston) and girlfriend (Bening), both of whom are con-artists themselves. Bening had something of a rocky road on the way to the...
Bening first found herself on the academy’s radar in 1991 for her role in “The Grifters,” Stephen Frears‘ crime thriller about a conman (John Cusack) who finds himself torn between his mother (Anjelica Huston) and girlfriend (Bening), both of whom are con-artists themselves. Bening had something of a rocky road on the way to the...
- 10/20/2023
- by Jacob Sarkisian
- Gold Derby
Rudolph Isley, a founding member of the Grammy-winning Isley Brothers who helped create some of the most memorable songs in American musical history, has died. His brother Ron confirmed the news to Deadline. Rudolph Isley was 84.
In a statement provided to Deadline, Ron Isley said of his brother’s passing, “There are no words to express my feelings and the love I have for my brother. Our family will miss him. But I know he’s in a better place.”
The Isley Brothers have had various lineups through the years, but Rudy was with the band from its beginnings in the late 1950s to his retirement from music in 1989, when he took up a Christian ministry. During that time, they recorded such classics as “Shout,” cowritten by Rudy, which in 1959 became their first single to chart on the Billboard Hot 100. The record sold over a million copies. The group went...
In a statement provided to Deadline, Ron Isley said of his brother’s passing, “There are no words to express my feelings and the love I have for my brother. Our family will miss him. But I know he’s in a better place.”
The Isley Brothers have had various lineups through the years, but Rudy was with the band from its beginnings in the late 1950s to his retirement from music in 1989, when he took up a Christian ministry. During that time, they recorded such classics as “Shout,” cowritten by Rudy, which in 1959 became their first single to chart on the Billboard Hot 100. The record sold over a million copies. The group went...
- 10/12/2023
- by Tom Tapp
- Deadline Film + TV
While Covid has never quite been eradicated, it has certainly been contained, allowing society to look to the future with a degree of positivity. This has been reflected in so many ways, not least the rise in movie attendance. The road to recovery has been long and painstaking, but moviegoing is back in vogue, with viewings increasing by over 60% last year, a trend likely to continue. Another reason for this growing popularity is the way movies are reflecting trends such as inclusivity. More and more LGBT-oriented films are being released, especially titles focusing on trans characters. Let’s take a closer look at these societal shifts, with the bonus of six movie suggestions where trans storylines are captivating audiences.
Why Inclusivity is Important
Minority groups have always had good reason to feel excluded from mainstream society, with fewer social opportunities, and sometimes facing outright prejudice and discrimination. The equality of...
Why Inclusivity is Important
Minority groups have always had good reason to feel excluded from mainstream society, with fewer social opportunities, and sometimes facing outright prejudice and discrimination. The equality of...
- 9/26/2023
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
In “Nyad,” the titular character is entitled, mean, self-centered and treats people around her terribly… and she’s our hero? Supporting actors Jodie Foster and Rhys Ifans manage to keep the film moving along, but the main subject, played passionately by Annette Bening, is one who is difficult to connect with and root for in this modern take on a sports drama.
A still Oscar-less Bening could be a possibility for traction in the best actress race – at least, Netflix hopes so. With four career nominations to Bening’s name, the streamer believes the fifth time could be the charm with her turn as a marathon swimmer who achieves the impossible in the drama.
Premiering at the Telluride Film Festival one day shy of the 10-year anniversary of Nyad’s famous distance swim from Cuba to Florida without the assistance of a shark cage, the film was introduced by co-directors...
A still Oscar-less Bening could be a possibility for traction in the best actress race – at least, Netflix hopes so. With four career nominations to Bening’s name, the streamer believes the fifth time could be the charm with her turn as a marathon swimmer who achieves the impossible in the drama.
Premiering at the Telluride Film Festival one day shy of the 10-year anniversary of Nyad’s famous distance swim from Cuba to Florida without the assistance of a shark cage, the film was introduced by co-directors...
- 9/18/2023
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
Grammy nominee and global sensation Anitta took the VMAs stage for the second time Tuesday night.
Surrounded by a large group of neon backup dancers, Anitta transformed Newark, New Jersey’s Prudential Center into a full-on dance party to perform hit songs off her latest EP, Funk Generation: A Favela Love Story. Introduced by Outer Banks star Madelyn Cline, the Brazilian singer included on her set list “Used to Be,” “Funk Rave” and “Grip” off the recent album.
For the second year in a row, the “Boys Don’t Cry” performer won for best Latin music video at the awards show, nominated alongside the likes of Bad Bunny, Karol G and Shakira. Last year, Anitta made VMAs history when she became the first Brazilian artist to win a Moon Person, taking home the best Latin accolade for her viral hit song “Envolver.”
Watch Anitta’s performance below.
Anitta performs at the 2023 #VMAs pic.
Surrounded by a large group of neon backup dancers, Anitta transformed Newark, New Jersey’s Prudential Center into a full-on dance party to perform hit songs off her latest EP, Funk Generation: A Favela Love Story. Introduced by Outer Banks star Madelyn Cline, the Brazilian singer included on her set list “Used to Be,” “Funk Rave” and “Grip” off the recent album.
For the second year in a row, the “Boys Don’t Cry” performer won for best Latin music video at the awards show, nominated alongside the likes of Bad Bunny, Karol G and Shakira. Last year, Anitta made VMAs history when she became the first Brazilian artist to win a Moon Person, taking home the best Latin accolade for her viral hit song “Envolver.”
Watch Anitta’s performance below.
Anitta performs at the 2023 #VMAs pic.
- 9/13/2023
- by Sydney Odman
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
It was a good weekend for Emma Stone. Her latest film “Poor Things” bowed at the Venice and Telluride Film Festivals to rapturous reviews, and only a couple of days later she skyrocketed into second place in our Oscar odds for Best Actress based on the combined predictions of thousands of Gold Derby users as of this writing. Scroll down to see the graph that illustrates her sudden ascent, and click on the graph to see the state of the race in all top categories.
SEEVenice Film Festival reviews: ‘Poor Things’ is ‘bonkers’ and ‘astonishing,’ Emma Stone is ‘stupendous’
From the graph, you can see that Stone was way down in eighth place on September 1. Sight unseen, it was hard to anticipate what her “Poor Things” performance would look like since the film is directed by the idiosyncratic Yorgos Lanthimos. He got Oscar’s attention with 2009’s “Dogtooth” (Best International...
SEEVenice Film Festival reviews: ‘Poor Things’ is ‘bonkers’ and ‘astonishing,’ Emma Stone is ‘stupendous’
From the graph, you can see that Stone was way down in eighth place on September 1. Sight unseen, it was hard to anticipate what her “Poor Things” performance would look like since the film is directed by the idiosyncratic Yorgos Lanthimos. He got Oscar’s attention with 2009’s “Dogtooth” (Best International...
- 9/5/2023
- by Daniel Montgomery
- Gold Derby
The married filmmakers Jimmy Chin and Chai Vasarhelyi made their names with docs about extreme athletic accomplishments — see 2015’s Meru, 2018’s Free Solo (for which they won the best documentary feature Oscar) and 2021’s The Rescue — and have now made their narrative directorial debut, Nyad, about one woman’s decades-long pursuit of one of the greatest of all: becoming the first person to swim from Cuba to Florida without the benefit of a moving cage to keep away sharks, jellyfish and other dangerous sea creatures.
As with, say, Argo, Sully or, well, The Rescue, I suspect that most people will know, going in to Nyad, how it ends. Spoiler alert: Nyad realized her dream, some 35 years after she first tried to, at the age of 64. But I suspect that most will not know, going in, just how many personal and professional obstacles Nyad had to overcome in order to do so.
As with, say, Argo, Sully or, well, The Rescue, I suspect that most people will know, going in to Nyad, how it ends. Spoiler alert: Nyad realized her dream, some 35 years after she first tried to, at the age of 64. But I suspect that most will not know, going in, just how many personal and professional obstacles Nyad had to overcome in order to do so.
- 9/2/2023
- by Scott Feinberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Telluride Film Festival attendees were treated to an honest-to-goodness crowdpleaser on Friday night at the Werner Herzog Theatre in the form of “Nyad.” The feature directing debut from “Free Solo” Oscar winners Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin had the packed audience literally cheering before its credits rolled, an impressive show of support for the filmmakers and distributor Netflix.
Described by Netflix as the “remarkable true story” of long-distance swimmer, sportscaster, author, and motivational speaker Diana Nyad, the film focuses on Nyad’s many attempts to swim from Cuba to Key West, Florida – a feat she finally accomplished in 2013 at the age of 64. Four-time Oscar nominee Annette Bening stars as the prickly and controversial Nyad with two-time Oscar winner Jodie Foster playing her steadfast coach, Bonnie Stoll – and the film, adapted from Nyad’s memoir by Julia Cox, gives both actors plenty of strong material with which to work. Needless to say,...
Described by Netflix as the “remarkable true story” of long-distance swimmer, sportscaster, author, and motivational speaker Diana Nyad, the film focuses on Nyad’s many attempts to swim from Cuba to Key West, Florida – a feat she finally accomplished in 2013 at the age of 64. Four-time Oscar nominee Annette Bening stars as the prickly and controversial Nyad with two-time Oscar winner Jodie Foster playing her steadfast coach, Bonnie Stoll – and the film, adapted from Nyad’s memoir by Julia Cox, gives both actors plenty of strong material with which to work. Needless to say,...
- 9/2/2023
- by Christopher Rosen
- Gold Derby
As of this writing, based on the combined Oscar predictions of Gold Derby users, Fantasia Barrino is the front-runner to win Best Actress with 9/2 odds for playing Celie in “The Color Purple.” Currently in seventh place with 11/1 odds is Annette Bening for “Nyad.” Bening is long overdue for her first win. So could this be similar to 1985 when another overdue veteran beat an actress playing Celie in “The Color Purple?”
In “The Color Purple,” Barrino plays Celie Harris Johnson, an African-American woman struggling to live in the South during the early 1900s. In “Nyad,” Bening plays Diana Nyad, a real-life swimmer who, at age 60 and with the help of her best friend and coach (Jodie Foster), commits to achieving her life-long dream: a 110-mile open ocean swim from Cuba to Florida.
SEEOscar predictions: Fantasia Barrino (‘The Color Purple’) is the early favorite for historic Best Actress victory
During the 1985 season...
In “The Color Purple,” Barrino plays Celie Harris Johnson, an African-American woman struggling to live in the South during the early 1900s. In “Nyad,” Bening plays Diana Nyad, a real-life swimmer who, at age 60 and with the help of her best friend and coach (Jodie Foster), commits to achieving her life-long dream: a 110-mile open ocean swim from Cuba to Florida.
SEEOscar predictions: Fantasia Barrino (‘The Color Purple’) is the early favorite for historic Best Actress victory
During the 1985 season...
- 9/1/2023
- by Jeffrey Kare
- Gold Derby
Love Again is a romantic comedy film written and directed by James C. Strouse. The rom-com movie is based on a German film titled SMS für Dich, which was based on a 2009 of the same name Sofie Cramer. Love Again follows the story of Mira, a young woman who is still grieving over the loss of her fiance, in order to deal with her grief she still sends romantic texts to her fiance’s number not knowing that the phone number has been reassigned to another man, who becomes more and more interested in her. Love Again stars Priyanka Chopra, Sam Heughan, and Celine Dion in the lead roles. So, if you loved the rom-com film here are some similar movies you could watch next.
P.S. I Love You (Rent on Prime Video) Credit – Warner Bros.
Synopsis: Two-time Academy Award winner Hilary Swank stars with Gerard Butler, Lisa Kudrow,...
P.S. I Love You (Rent on Prime Video) Credit – Warner Bros.
Synopsis: Two-time Academy Award winner Hilary Swank stars with Gerard Butler, Lisa Kudrow,...
- 8/29/2023
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
Hillary Swank rallies her entire town to help out a neighbor in the latest trailer for Lionsgate’s true-life faith-based drama “Ordinary Angels.”
The two-time Oscar winner plays a hairdresser who inserts herself into the life of a grieving widower with a critically ill daughter. The kid needs a new liver, and the dad just needs a little help. As revealed in the trailer, circumstances change when a new organ becomes available for transplant, but it requires a cross-country flight and happens to occur during a once-in-a-generation cold front.
Swank won two Best Actress Oscars, one in 2000 for “Boys Don’t Cry” and one in 2005 for “Million Dollar Baby.” Although she never really became a bankable draw, she has made a career out of mostly top-billed leading roles in films like “Amelia,” “The Core” and “The Gift.” Moreover, she almost never found herself just playing the love interest or the lone woman in a macho melodrama,...
The two-time Oscar winner plays a hairdresser who inserts herself into the life of a grieving widower with a critically ill daughter. The kid needs a new liver, and the dad just needs a little help. As revealed in the trailer, circumstances change when a new organ becomes available for transplant, but it requires a cross-country flight and happens to occur during a once-in-a-generation cold front.
Swank won two Best Actress Oscars, one in 2000 for “Boys Don’t Cry” and one in 2005 for “Million Dollar Baby.” Although she never really became a bankable draw, she has made a career out of mostly top-billed leading roles in films like “Amelia,” “The Core” and “The Gift.” Moreover, she almost never found herself just playing the love interest or the lone woman in a macho melodrama,...
- 8/29/2023
- by Scott Mendelson
- The Wrap
Four-time Oscar nominee Annette Bening and two-time Oscar winner Jodie Foster are ready to find a way in the first photos from the upcoming Netflix drama “Nyad.”
Based on the Diana Nyad memoir “Find a Way” and directed by Oscar-winning “Free Solo” filmmakers Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin in their narrative feature debut, “Nyad” stars Bening as the title character, the world-class athlete and journalist who attempted to swim from Cuba to Florida at the age of 60. Julia Cox adapted the Nyad memoir for the screen.
Here’s the official plot synopsis, provided by Netflix.
A remarkable true story of tenacity, friendship, and the triumph of the human spirit, Nyad recounts a riveting chapter in the life of world-class athlete Diana Nyad. Three decades after giving up marathon swimming in exchange for a prominent career as a sports journalist, at the age of 60, Diana (four-time Academy Award nominee Annette...
Based on the Diana Nyad memoir “Find a Way” and directed by Oscar-winning “Free Solo” filmmakers Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin in their narrative feature debut, “Nyad” stars Bening as the title character, the world-class athlete and journalist who attempted to swim from Cuba to Florida at the age of 60. Julia Cox adapted the Nyad memoir for the screen.
Here’s the official plot synopsis, provided by Netflix.
A remarkable true story of tenacity, friendship, and the triumph of the human spirit, Nyad recounts a riveting chapter in the life of world-class athlete Diana Nyad. Three decades after giving up marathon swimming in exchange for a prominent career as a sports journalist, at the age of 60, Diana (four-time Academy Award nominee Annette...
- 8/21/2023
- by Christopher Rosen
- Gold Derby
Come one, come all, Insiders. Jesse Whittock back again this week to take you through the past week in international film and TV. Let’s get started. If you’re not already subscribed, click here and make that right.
Euro Studio Vuelta Emerges
Indie shake-up: There’s a new kid in town. Yesterday, Andreas broke the news of Europe’s latest consolidation player: Vuelta Group. Led by French media vet Jerome Levy, the company has launched through the acquisitions of France’s Playtime Group, Germany’s SquareOne and Nordic producer-distributor Scanbox. More companies are expected to join the club, as the indie film sector welcomes a new heavyweight to rival the likes of Leonine, Mediawan and Asacha Media, who have all emerged as major presences in recent years. Also in the European indie sector are the established TV players such as Banijay and Fremantle. Each of Vuelta’s acquisitions are...
Euro Studio Vuelta Emerges
Indie shake-up: There’s a new kid in town. Yesterday, Andreas broke the news of Europe’s latest consolidation player: Vuelta Group. Led by French media vet Jerome Levy, the company has launched through the acquisitions of France’s Playtime Group, Germany’s SquareOne and Nordic producer-distributor Scanbox. More companies are expected to join the club, as the indie film sector welcomes a new heavyweight to rival the likes of Leonine, Mediawan and Asacha Media, who have all emerged as major presences in recent years. Also in the European indie sector are the established TV players such as Banijay and Fremantle. Each of Vuelta’s acquisitions are...
- 7/7/2023
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Producer Christine Vachon: 'Producing in many ways is like childbirth and you forget how difficult it is' Photo: Film Servis Karlovy Vary In her 30-year career of helping diverse voices from outside the mainstream reach the screen , producer Christine Vachon has accumulated a roll call of honour including Todd Haynes (Carol), Todd Solondz (Happiness), Mary Harron (I Shot Andy Warhol), Kimberly Pierce (Boys Don’t Cry), and John Cameron Mitchell (Hedwig And The Angry Inch).
Reflecting on her achievements at the Karlovy International Film Festival where two of her most recent titles Celine Song’s romantic drama Past Lives, and Emma Westenberg’s I Sing Loud, You Sing Louder (with Ewan and Clara McGregor) were screened, she said: “Producing in many ways is like child birth and you forget how difficult it is.”
Vachon co-founded with Pamela Koffler her production company Killer Films in 1995. She agrees that most people have...
Reflecting on her achievements at the Karlovy International Film Festival where two of her most recent titles Celine Song’s romantic drama Past Lives, and Emma Westenberg’s I Sing Loud, You Sing Louder (with Ewan and Clara McGregor) were screened, she said: “Producing in many ways is like child birth and you forget how difficult it is.”
Vachon co-founded with Pamela Koffler her production company Killer Films in 1995. She agrees that most people have...
- 7/7/2023
- by Richard Mowe
- eyeforfilm.co.uk
Since producing Todd Haynes’ Sundance-winning drama “Poison” in 1991, Christine Vachon has helped bring some of the most unique and memorable independent films to the big – and small screen. Her work, which includes over 100 films and television projects, ranges from ushering in debut films from directors like Rose Troche and Mary Harron to Oscar dramas like “Boys Don’t Cry” and “Far From Heaven,” to prestige TV like HBO’s “Mildred Pierce” and Netflix’s “Halston.” Within her tremendous filmography, there is one common thread: Vachon has an eye for filmmakers with strong, clear artistic vision.
Continue reading Christine Vachon: Todd Haynes & Pioneering Film Producer Talks ‘Past Lives’ & Cinema’s Indie Future [Karlovy Vary Interview] at The Playlist.
Continue reading Christine Vachon: Todd Haynes & Pioneering Film Producer Talks ‘Past Lives’ & Cinema’s Indie Future [Karlovy Vary Interview] at The Playlist.
- 7/6/2023
- by Marya E. Gates
- The Playlist
Exclusive: Christine Vachon offered her outlook on some of the industry’s most pressing issues at a keynote masterclass session this afternoon at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival.
The session, moderated by Deadline’s Mike Fleming Jr, opened with a focus on Vachon’s career before blossoming into a wider discussion about the industry, including what Vachon believes exhibitors can be doing to encourage audiences to get back into cinemas.
“It’s about creating environments that make the experience feel more like an event,” she said of the moviegoing experience. “I know in Europe this is old, but in America, the idea of eating a meal or having a drink in a movie theater is still relatively new, and creating an event where your seat is extraordinarily comfortable with actually decent projections.”
Vachon, a native New Yorker, later joked: “I don’t know if in New York you are...
The session, moderated by Deadline’s Mike Fleming Jr, opened with a focus on Vachon’s career before blossoming into a wider discussion about the industry, including what Vachon believes exhibitors can be doing to encourage audiences to get back into cinemas.
“It’s about creating environments that make the experience feel more like an event,” she said of the moviegoing experience. “I know in Europe this is old, but in America, the idea of eating a meal or having a drink in a movie theater is still relatively new, and creating an event where your seat is extraordinarily comfortable with actually decent projections.”
Vachon, a native New Yorker, later joked: “I don’t know if in New York you are...
- 7/3/2023
- by Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
Before Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie,” there was “Superstar: The Karen Carpenter Story.”
“Mattel did pay a visit to our office,” said acclaimed producer Christine Vachon during an onstage interview with Deadline at Karlovy Vary Film Festival. Back in 1987, she was helping out on the Todd Haynes and Cynthia Schneider-produced movie. The now-banned film, dedicated to Carpenter’s tragic life and her untimely passing, featured dolls instead of actors.
“Todd bought all these toys in garage sales. There were Barbies, but also all these Barbie rip-offs, so he was able to prove to Mattel that it was off brand,” Vachon said.
While he appeased the famous company, Carpenter’s family was less pleased, filing a lawsuit against the director.
“The reason he didn’t seek permission for these songs was because he didn’t expect it would blow up the way it did,” Vachon said. “The movie made a tremendous splash,...
“Mattel did pay a visit to our office,” said acclaimed producer Christine Vachon during an onstage interview with Deadline at Karlovy Vary Film Festival. Back in 1987, she was helping out on the Todd Haynes and Cynthia Schneider-produced movie. The now-banned film, dedicated to Carpenter’s tragic life and her untimely passing, featured dolls instead of actors.
“Todd bought all these toys in garage sales. There were Barbies, but also all these Barbie rip-offs, so he was able to prove to Mattel that it was off brand,” Vachon said.
While he appeased the famous company, Carpenter’s family was less pleased, filing a lawsuit against the director.
“The reason he didn’t seek permission for these songs was because he didn’t expect it would blow up the way it did,” Vachon said. “The movie made a tremendous splash,...
- 7/3/2023
- by Marta Balaga
- Variety Film + TV
Superheroes, making moviegoing a bigger event and the Hollywood writers strike were among the topics of a Monday masterclass featuring legendary independent film producer Christine Vachon that was part of the second day of the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival’s Eastern Promises Industry Day program.
One of the questions Vachon received was whether cinemas are doing enough to cultivate the moviegoing experience and audience. “What the theaters are trying to do is create a bigger experience,” she said. “It’s about creating environments that make the experience feel more like an event.”
She added: “I know in Europe this is an old hat, but in America, the idea of eating a meal or having a drink in a movie theater is still relatively new and creating an event where your seat is extraordinarily comfortable with the projections actually decent.” Vachon then joked that “I don’t know if in...
One of the questions Vachon received was whether cinemas are doing enough to cultivate the moviegoing experience and audience. “What the theaters are trying to do is create a bigger experience,” she said. “It’s about creating environments that make the experience feel more like an event.”
She added: “I know in Europe this is an old hat, but in America, the idea of eating a meal or having a drink in a movie theater is still relatively new and creating an event where your seat is extraordinarily comfortable with the projections actually decent.” Vachon then joked that “I don’t know if in...
- 7/3/2023
- by Georg Szalai
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.