Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie” took home multiple awards at the 14th Music Supervisors Guild Awards, held March 3 at Los Angeles’ Wiltern Theatre. The event celebrates outstanding achievement in the craft of music supervision, acknowledging work across film, television, documentaries, advertising, trailers and video games.
George Drakoulias of “Barbie” won best music supervision for a film budgeted over $25 million and for best song written for and/or recorded for a film for “What Was I Made For?”, which was shared with Billie Eilish and Finneas.
Meanwhile, Frankie Pine won two awards for her contributions to the Prime Video series “Daisy Jones and the Six.” Alex Hackford received two awards for his work on Marvel’s “Spider-Man 2” video game.
The ceremony also featured a posthumous recognition of musician Robbie Robertson, who was given the Icon Award in celebration of his contributions to the music and film industries. Margo Price, Rocco DeLuca...
George Drakoulias of “Barbie” won best music supervision for a film budgeted over $25 million and for best song written for and/or recorded for a film for “What Was I Made For?”, which was shared with Billie Eilish and Finneas.
Meanwhile, Frankie Pine won two awards for her contributions to the Prime Video series “Daisy Jones and the Six.” Alex Hackford received two awards for his work on Marvel’s “Spider-Man 2” video game.
The ceremony also featured a posthumous recognition of musician Robbie Robertson, who was given the Icon Award in celebration of his contributions to the music and film industries. Margo Price, Rocco DeLuca...
- 3/4/2024
- by Jaden Thompson
- Variety Film + TV
Dexter Darden (Chang Can Dunk) is ready to float like a butterfly and sting like a bee as Muhammad Ali for Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist, a limited crime series coming to Peacock. The forthcoming series features Samuel L. Jackson, Kevin Hart, and Terrence Howard for a story about an infamous armed robbery after Muhammad Ali’s historical comeback fight in 1970.
In the series, Jackson plays Frank Morten, a real-life underworld kingpin dubbed the Black Godfather by the New York tabloids. The project finds Jackson reuniting with Black Snake Moan filmmaker Craig Brewer, who will direct the first two episodes of Fight Night. Meanwhile, Howard plays Richard “Cadillac” Wheeler, a gangster and associate of the Council of 12. Hart plays Chicken Man in the series, while Taraji P. Henson portrays Vivian Thomas, a savvy businesswoman and Chicken Man’s mistress.
The plot takes place on the night of Ali defeating...
In the series, Jackson plays Frank Morten, a real-life underworld kingpin dubbed the Black Godfather by the New York tabloids. The project finds Jackson reuniting with Black Snake Moan filmmaker Craig Brewer, who will direct the first two episodes of Fight Night. Meanwhile, Howard plays Richard “Cadillac” Wheeler, a gangster and associate of the Council of 12. Hart plays Chicken Man in the series, while Taraji P. Henson portrays Vivian Thomas, a savvy businesswoman and Chicken Man’s mistress.
The plot takes place on the night of Ali defeating...
- 1/31/2024
- by Steve Seigh
- JoBlo.com
Exclusive: Up-and-comer Dexter Darden (Chang Can Dunk) has been tapped to portray all-time great boxer Muhammad Ali in Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist, the forthcoming true crime limited series for Peacock. He joins an ensemble that also includes Kevin Hart, Samuel L. Jackson and Terrence Howard, as previously announced.
Created and written by Shaye Ogbonna based on the same-name podcast from iHeartPodcasts, Doghouse Pictures and Will Packer Media, Fight Night tells the infamous story of how an armed robbery during the night of Ali’s historic 1970 comeback fight changed not only one man’s life, but an entire city’s destiny.
Ogbonna and Jason Horwitch are serving as showrunners, with Craig Brewer directing the first two episodes and exec producing alongside Hart, Bryan Smiley and Mike Stein for Hart’s Hartbeat, Will Packer and Sabrina Wind for Will Packer Media, Conal Byrne, Will Pearson and Carrie Lieberman for iHeartPodcasts,...
Created and written by Shaye Ogbonna based on the same-name podcast from iHeartPodcasts, Doghouse Pictures and Will Packer Media, Fight Night tells the infamous story of how an armed robbery during the night of Ali’s historic 1970 comeback fight changed not only one man’s life, but an entire city’s destiny.
Ogbonna and Jason Horwitch are serving as showrunners, with Craig Brewer directing the first two episodes and exec producing alongside Hart, Bryan Smiley and Mike Stein for Hart’s Hartbeat, Will Packer and Sabrina Wind for Will Packer Media, Conal Byrne, Will Pearson and Carrie Lieberman for iHeartPodcasts,...
- 1/31/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Rtg Features, the sister studio to basketball media company Slam, is partnering with arts organization Heartland Film to launch the first annual Slam Film Festival dedicated to basketball-themed movies.
The festival, which will take place February 16-18, 2024, at Living Room Theaters in Indianapolis, will be a mix of world premiere titles, recent festival circuit movies and iconic films. The event will be the first-ever film festival exclusively focused on basketball, and is launched in celebration of Slam’s 30th anniversary in 2024. Scroll down for the lineup.
There will be 30th anniversary screenings of Steve James’ classic doc Hoop Dreams, William Friedkin’s Nick Nolte and Shaquille O’Neal film Blue Chips and Jeff Pollack’s Above The Rim. Newer films set to screen will include Palm Springs 2024 title Amongst The Trees, exec-produced by NBA star Paul George, and recent doc biopic Stephen Curry: Underrated (2023).
In addition to screenings and post-screening Q&As,...
The festival, which will take place February 16-18, 2024, at Living Room Theaters in Indianapolis, will be a mix of world premiere titles, recent festival circuit movies and iconic films. The event will be the first-ever film festival exclusively focused on basketball, and is launched in celebration of Slam’s 30th anniversary in 2024. Scroll down for the lineup.
There will be 30th anniversary screenings of Steve James’ classic doc Hoop Dreams, William Friedkin’s Nick Nolte and Shaquille O’Neal film Blue Chips and Jeff Pollack’s Above The Rim. Newer films set to screen will include Palm Springs 2024 title Amongst The Trees, exec-produced by NBA star Paul George, and recent doc biopic Stephen Curry: Underrated (2023).
In addition to screenings and post-screening Q&As,...
- 1/24/2024
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Hi, Barbie! Great news: Greta Gerwig’s film based on the iconic Mattel doll leads the 14th annual Guild of Music Supervisors Awards nominations with three nods – including best song for both Billie Eilish’s “What Was I Made For?” and Ryan Gosling’s “I’m Just Ken.”
“Barbie’s” third nomination was in best music supervision for a film budgeted over $25 million. The category recognized the work of music supervisor George Drakoulias, songwriters Eilish and Finneas and Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt who penned “I’m Just Ken.”
Other film contenders are the music supervisors from “Maestro,” “Saltburn,” “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,” “Past Lives,” “Wonka,” “Air” among others.
Top TV contenders include the music supervisors from “Daisy Jones & The Six,” “The White Lotus,” “Welcome to Chippendales” and “Yellowjackets.”
The Guild of Music Supervisors is a non-profit organization that was founded in 2010 with the “goal of preserving and promoting the...
“Barbie’s” third nomination was in best music supervision for a film budgeted over $25 million. The category recognized the work of music supervisor George Drakoulias, songwriters Eilish and Finneas and Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt who penned “I’m Just Ken.”
Other film contenders are the music supervisors from “Maestro,” “Saltburn,” “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,” “Past Lives,” “Wonka,” “Air” among others.
Top TV contenders include the music supervisors from “Daisy Jones & The Six,” “The White Lotus,” “Welcome to Chippendales” and “Yellowjackets.”
The Guild of Music Supervisors is a non-profit organization that was founded in 2010 with the “goal of preserving and promoting the...
- 1/22/2024
- by Diego Ramos Bechara
- Variety Film + TV
Barbie is the most nominated film for the 2024 Guild of Music Supervisors Awards, landing three nominations, including two in the best song for film category for “What Was I Made For?” and “I’m Just Ken.”
Barbie is nominated for best music supervision for film budgeted over $25 million and scored two nods for best song written and/or recorded for a film for Billie Eilish and Finneas’ “What Was I Made For?” and Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt’s “I’m Just Ken,” performed by Ryan Gosling.
The music supervisors with the most individual nominations are Mike Ladman and Mara Techam, each with five nominations, whose work in advertising includes collaborations with brands like Levis, The New York Times, Hennessy and others.
The 14th annual Guild of Music Supervisors Awards are set to take place in-person and virtually at Los Angeles’ Wiltern Theatre on Sunday, March 3.
A full list of nominees follows.
Barbie is nominated for best music supervision for film budgeted over $25 million and scored two nods for best song written and/or recorded for a film for Billie Eilish and Finneas’ “What Was I Made For?” and Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt’s “I’m Just Ken,” performed by Ryan Gosling.
The music supervisors with the most individual nominations are Mike Ladman and Mara Techam, each with five nominations, whose work in advertising includes collaborations with brands like Levis, The New York Times, Hennessy and others.
The 14th annual Guild of Music Supervisors Awards are set to take place in-person and virtually at Los Angeles’ Wiltern Theatre on Sunday, March 3.
A full list of nominees follows.
- 1/22/2024
- by Hilary Lewis
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The 2023 Children’s & Family Emmy Awards were handed out on Sunday night in a ceremony hosted by Christopher Jackson (Hamilton, And Just Like That…) at the Westin Bonaventure Hotel in Los Angeles.
Sesame Street and The Muppets Mayhem took home top honors for Outstanding Preschool Series and Outstanding Children’s or Family Viewing Series, respectively. Meanwhile, Apple TV+’s The Crossover walked away with a win for Outstanding Young Teen Series.
More from TVLineEmmys 2023 Poll: What Should Win for Outstanding Drama Series?Anthony Anderson to Host 2023 EmmysGolden Globes: Succession, The Bear, Only Murders Lead 2024 TV Nominees
As far as cartoons go,...
Sesame Street and The Muppets Mayhem took home top honors for Outstanding Preschool Series and Outstanding Children’s or Family Viewing Series, respectively. Meanwhile, Apple TV+’s The Crossover walked away with a win for Outstanding Young Teen Series.
More from TVLineEmmys 2023 Poll: What Should Win for Outstanding Drama Series?Anthony Anderson to Host 2023 EmmysGolden Globes: Succession, The Bear, Only Murders Lead 2024 TV Nominees
As far as cartoons go,...
- 12/18/2023
- by Claire Franken
- TVLine.com
The 2nd Annual Children’s and Family Emmy Awards announced their winners on December 16 and 17. These prizes were formerly handed out as part of the Daytime Emmys, but they were given their own separate event as part of a restructuring of the Emmys as a whole. Scroll down for the complete list of winners in all categories.
SEEStars you didn’t know were Golden Globes nominees this year: Bruce Springsteen, Lenny Kravitz…
Preschool Series
Blue’s Clues & You! — Nickelodeon
Helpsters — Apple TV+
X — Sesame Street — HBO Max
Slumberkins — Apple TV+
Waffles + Mochi’s Restaurant — Netflix
Children’S Or Family Viewing Series
Are You Afraid of the Dark — Nickelodeon
Best Foot Forward — Apple TV+
Jane — Apple TV+
Malory Towers — BYUtv
X — The Muppets Mayhem — Disney+
Young Teen Series
X — The Crossover — Disney+
Ghostwriter — Apple TV+
High School Musical: The Musical – The Series — Disney+
The Mysterious Benedict Society — Disney+
Xo, Kitty...
SEEStars you didn’t know were Golden Globes nominees this year: Bruce Springsteen, Lenny Kravitz…
Preschool Series
Blue’s Clues & You! — Nickelodeon
Helpsters — Apple TV+
X — Sesame Street — HBO Max
Slumberkins — Apple TV+
Waffles + Mochi’s Restaurant — Netflix
Children’S Or Family Viewing Series
Are You Afraid of the Dark — Nickelodeon
Best Foot Forward — Apple TV+
Jane — Apple TV+
Malory Towers — BYUtv
X — The Muppets Mayhem — Disney+
Young Teen Series
X — The Crossover — Disney+
Ghostwriter — Apple TV+
High School Musical: The Musical – The Series — Disney+
The Mysterious Benedict Society — Disney+
Xo, Kitty...
- 12/18/2023
- by Daniel Montgomery
- Gold Derby
The 2nd annual Children’s & Family Emmys got underway on Saturday night, starting with the Children’s & Family Creative Arts Emmys at the Westin Bonaventure Hotel in downtown Los Angeles. According to early results — pending final tallies — Disney+ and Netflix tied the lead with nine wins overall.
The most honored program of the evening was actually Netflix’s “Lost Ollie,” which scored five trophies. Disney+’s wins included multiple awards for “The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special” and animated series “Baymax!” Nickelodeon picked up five wins.
And it was also a good night for Disney via its linear Disney Channel, which picked up four wins.
Presenters included Tamara Almeida (“Jane”), Ceci Balagot (“Monster High: The Movie”), Eric Bauza (voice of Bugs Bunny and others), Tantoo Cardinal (“Spirit Rangers”), Nayah Damasen (“Monster High: The Movie”), Miia Harris (“Monster High: The Movie”), Sonia Manzano (“Alma’s Way”), Ava Louise Murchison (“Jane”), and...
The most honored program of the evening was actually Netflix’s “Lost Ollie,” which scored five trophies. Disney+’s wins included multiple awards for “The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special” and animated series “Baymax!” Nickelodeon picked up five wins.
And it was also a good night for Disney via its linear Disney Channel, which picked up four wins.
Presenters included Tamara Almeida (“Jane”), Ceci Balagot (“Monster High: The Movie”), Eric Bauza (voice of Bugs Bunny and others), Tantoo Cardinal (“Spirit Rangers”), Nayah Damasen (“Monster High: The Movie”), Miia Harris (“Monster High: The Movie”), Sonia Manzano (“Alma’s Way”), Ava Louise Murchison (“Jane”), and...
- 12/17/2023
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Photo credit: ©BAFTA/Vivek Vadoliya, 2023
BAFTA Breakthrough is a wonderful Netflix-supported initiative that celebrates the very best of young talent. In its 10th year, the alumni boasts the likes of Florence Pugh, Tom Holland and Letitia Wright – and this year comes a whole host of exciting new names. One of which caught our eye especially, which is Vivian Oparah, who shone in Peckham-set rom-com Rye Lane, which enamoured viewers with its spring-time release. We discuss what it means to her to be named as a BAFTA Breakthrough artist, and naturally we look back to Rye Lane, to talk about shooting the film, and the lasting, indelible impact it has left. She also looks ahead to a future that we’re gonna consider pretty damn bright.
Watch the full interview with Vivian Oparah here:
See below for the full list of this year’s stars:
UK Breakthroughs (20):
Adjani Salmon,...
BAFTA Breakthrough is a wonderful Netflix-supported initiative that celebrates the very best of young talent. In its 10th year, the alumni boasts the likes of Florence Pugh, Tom Holland and Letitia Wright – and this year comes a whole host of exciting new names. One of which caught our eye especially, which is Vivian Oparah, who shone in Peckham-set rom-com Rye Lane, which enamoured viewers with its spring-time release. We discuss what it means to her to be named as a BAFTA Breakthrough artist, and naturally we look back to Rye Lane, to talk about shooting the film, and the lasting, indelible impact it has left. She also looks ahead to a future that we’re gonna consider pretty damn bright.
Watch the full interview with Vivian Oparah here:
See below for the full list of this year’s stars:
UK Breakthroughs (20):
Adjani Salmon,...
- 11/30/2023
- by Stefan Pape
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
A galaxy of 42 emerging creative talents from across the U.S., U.K. and India have been unveiled as the 2023 BAFTA Breakthrough cohort.
The selected talents have worked on some of the most lauded projects over the last several months including “The Last of Us,” “1923,” “Blue Jean,” “Rye Lane,” “Rocket Boys” and “Joyland.”
Breakthrough is BAFTA’s flagship new talent initiative in partnership with Netflix, drawn from creatives working in film, games and television. Awarded to those in the midst of, or on the cusp of their breakthrough moment, the year-long initiative includes one-to-one meetings and career guidance, full voting membership, access to BAFTA events and screenings, as well as networking events, both in the U.K. and internationally.
This year’s cohort comprises creatives spanning craft specialisms from hair and make up, production, editing and games design, to performance, directing and cinematography and is from diverse ethnic backgrounds and abilities.
The selected talents have worked on some of the most lauded projects over the last several months including “The Last of Us,” “1923,” “Blue Jean,” “Rye Lane,” “Rocket Boys” and “Joyland.”
Breakthrough is BAFTA’s flagship new talent initiative in partnership with Netflix, drawn from creatives working in film, games and television. Awarded to those in the midst of, or on the cusp of their breakthrough moment, the year-long initiative includes one-to-one meetings and career guidance, full voting membership, access to BAFTA events and screenings, as well as networking events, both in the U.K. and internationally.
This year’s cohort comprises creatives spanning craft specialisms from hair and make up, production, editing and games design, to performance, directing and cinematography and is from diverse ethnic backgrounds and abilities.
- 11/29/2023
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Disney racked up 93 nominations for the second annual Children’s and Family Emmys over their different networks, including Disney+ and Disney Junior.
Netflix followed with 61 nominations and Nickelodeon with 30, with AppleTV+ proving itself to be a rising player with 27 total nods.
“We are very proud of the growth experienced in year two of the Children’s and Family Emmys, especially in the development and cultivation of the new categories dedicated to puppetry,” said Rachel Schwartz, director of Daytime and Children’s & Family Emmy Awards, in a statement.
Among the notable actors who received nominations for acting categories included “The Santa Clauses” stars Tim Allen and Kal Penn, “National Treasure: Edge of History” player Catherine Zeta-Jones, Gina Rodriguez for Netflix’s “Lost Ollie,” and various voice performances were recognized for Hollywood vets such as Laurence Fishburne, Jack Black, Tom Kenny and Rob Paulsen.
Details for the ceremony are slated to drop sometime next week.
Netflix followed with 61 nominations and Nickelodeon with 30, with AppleTV+ proving itself to be a rising player with 27 total nods.
“We are very proud of the growth experienced in year two of the Children’s and Family Emmys, especially in the development and cultivation of the new categories dedicated to puppetry,” said Rachel Schwartz, director of Daytime and Children’s & Family Emmy Awards, in a statement.
Among the notable actors who received nominations for acting categories included “The Santa Clauses” stars Tim Allen and Kal Penn, “National Treasure: Edge of History” player Catherine Zeta-Jones, Gina Rodriguez for Netflix’s “Lost Ollie,” and various voice performances were recognized for Hollywood vets such as Laurence Fishburne, Jack Black, Tom Kenny and Rob Paulsen.
Details for the ceremony are slated to drop sometime next week.
- 11/2/2023
- by Jason Clark
- The Wrap
The 2nd Annual Children’s and Family Emmy Awards announced their nominations on November 2, with “Sesame Street” and “The Mysterious Benedict Society” among the top contenders. These awards used to be handed out as part of the Daytime Emmys, but they were shifted to their own separate ceremony as part of an overall restructuring of all Emmy events. Scroll down for the complete list of nominees in all categories.
Rachel Schwartz, Director of the Daytime and Children’s and Family Emmy Awards, said in a statement, “We are very proud of the growth experienced in year two of the Children’s and Family Emmys, especially in the development and cultivation of the new categories dedicated to puppetry.”
Brent Stanton, Head of the Daytime and Children’s and Family Emmy Awards, added, “Programming created for children’s and family viewing has a long history of leading the way in innovation and storytelling.
Rachel Schwartz, Director of the Daytime and Children’s and Family Emmy Awards, said in a statement, “We are very proud of the growth experienced in year two of the Children’s and Family Emmys, especially in the development and cultivation of the new categories dedicated to puppetry.”
Brent Stanton, Head of the Daytime and Children’s and Family Emmy Awards, added, “Programming created for children’s and family viewing has a long history of leading the way in innovation and storytelling.
- 11/2/2023
- by Daniel Montgomery
- Gold Derby
The nominees for the second annual Children’s & Family Emmy Awards are out, and a lot of familiar faces are among the honorees.
The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences announced this year’s nominees on Thursday, with nominated shows featuring The Muppets, Sesame Street and Marvel and Star Wars characters, among others. Disney+’s The Muppets Mayhem scored a nod for best children’s or family viewing series, with Sesame Street nominated for best preschool series, I Am Groot for best short form program and Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures for best preschool animated series.
More from TVLineSanta Clauses...
The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences announced this year’s nominees on Thursday, with nominated shows featuring The Muppets, Sesame Street and Marvel and Star Wars characters, among others. Disney+’s The Muppets Mayhem scored a nod for best children’s or family viewing series, with Sesame Street nominated for best preschool series, I Am Groot for best short form program and Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures for best preschool animated series.
More from TVLineSanta Clauses...
- 11/2/2023
- by Dave Nemetz
- TVLine.com
The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS) announced on Thursday the nominees for the second annual Children’s & Family Emmy Awards.
Disney led the nominees with an overwhelming 93 nods, which included programming across Disney+, Disney Channel and Disney Junior. Netflix followed with 61 nods, while Nickelodeon earned 30 and Apple TV+ earned 27. With 50 categories, the Children’s and Family Emmys is the largest competition that NATAS oversees.
“We are very proud of the growth experienced in year two of the Children’s and Family Emmys, especially in the development and cultivation of the new categories dedicated to puppetry,” said Rachel Schwartz, director of Daytime and Children’s & Family Emmy Awards, in a statement.
Added Brent Stanton, head of Daytime and Children’s & Family Emmy Awards: “Programming created for children’s and family viewing has a long history of leading the way in innovation and storytelling. In this year specifically, a...
Disney led the nominees with an overwhelming 93 nods, which included programming across Disney+, Disney Channel and Disney Junior. Netflix followed with 61 nods, while Nickelodeon earned 30 and Apple TV+ earned 27. With 50 categories, the Children’s and Family Emmys is the largest competition that NATAS oversees.
“We are very proud of the growth experienced in year two of the Children’s and Family Emmys, especially in the development and cultivation of the new categories dedicated to puppetry,” said Rachel Schwartz, director of Daytime and Children’s & Family Emmy Awards, in a statement.
Added Brent Stanton, head of Daytime and Children’s & Family Emmy Awards: “Programming created for children’s and family viewing has a long history of leading the way in innovation and storytelling. In this year specifically, a...
- 11/2/2023
- by Tyler Coates
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
As the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences continues to figure out how and when to finally hold this year’s Daytime Emmys — delayed in June due to the WGA strike — it has gone ahead and announced the nominations for this year’s 2nd Annual Children’s & Family Emmys.
There’s no date yet for this year’s Chidren’s & Family Emmys — NATAS is likely waiting for a hopeful soon resolution to the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike before firming up dates. But last year, winners were announced during two ceremonies—one focused on creative and technical arts, and the other to performances and programming—at Wilshire Ebell Theatre on December 10 and 11. This year’s Cafe will likely be held around the same time — and NATAS could very well use that timeframe to simultaneously finally hold the Daytime Emmys as well.
In announcing this year’s nominees, NATAS also supplied a...
There’s no date yet for this year’s Chidren’s & Family Emmys — NATAS is likely waiting for a hopeful soon resolution to the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike before firming up dates. But last year, winners were announced during two ceremonies—one focused on creative and technical arts, and the other to performances and programming—at Wilshire Ebell Theatre on December 10 and 11. This year’s Cafe will likely be held around the same time — and NATAS could very well use that timeframe to simultaneously finally hold the Daytime Emmys as well.
In announcing this year’s nominees, NATAS also supplied a...
- 11/2/2023
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
It’s hard today to remember just how many people watched Mary Tyler Moore during her peak half-hour network comedy era, first with “The Dick Van Dyke Show”, then “The Mary Tyler Moore Show”. That Emmy-lauded newsroom sitcom reached 30 million homes, with some 100 million tuning in every Saturday night to watch Moore embody that rare thing on television: a single career woman who was not defined by the men in her life. At the time, this was radical.
Given that those millions were watching Moore back in the 60s and 70s, and later with Nick at Nite reruns, it’s no surprise that many people who did not grow up with Moore do not know her at all. Maybe they’d seen the iconic hat toss or heard a reference in a Weezer song (“Buddy Holly”).
That was the level of knowledge for the Harlem-born TV cinematographer-turned-documentary director James Adolphus,...
Given that those millions were watching Moore back in the 60s and 70s, and later with Nick at Nite reruns, it’s no surprise that many people who did not grow up with Moore do not know her at all. Maybe they’d seen the iconic hat toss or heard a reference in a Weezer song (“Buddy Holly”).
That was the level of knowledge for the Harlem-born TV cinematographer-turned-documentary director James Adolphus,...
- 8/21/2023
- by Anne Thompson
- Indiewire
UK Agency Insanity Group Restructures Entertainment Team
UK agency Insanity Group, which represents the likes of Maya Jama and Alice Levine, has restructured its entertainment division. Helen Gleave has been promoted to Group Managing Director with responsibility for leading the entertainment team and wider business, while Issy Lloyd and Neil Ransome are also promoted. All three have been at the outfit for more than a decade. Founder andd CEO Andy Varley called the trio “exceptionally strategic and forward-thinking executives.” Insanity launched in 1997 and has offices in London and LA, with clients including Jama, Levine and Mollie King, along with musicians.
Eric Anthony Lopez Inks Deal Reload Management
Exclusive: Actor Eric Anthony Lopez has signed with Reload Management. Lopez, who is of Puerto Rican descent, is best known for starring in the Disney Studios pic Chang Can Dunk. He is also known for his work on stage. He made his Broadway...
UK agency Insanity Group, which represents the likes of Maya Jama and Alice Levine, has restructured its entertainment division. Helen Gleave has been promoted to Group Managing Director with responsibility for leading the entertainment team and wider business, while Issy Lloyd and Neil Ransome are also promoted. All three have been at the outfit for more than a decade. Founder andd CEO Andy Varley called the trio “exceptionally strategic and forward-thinking executives.” Insanity launched in 1997 and has offices in London and LA, with clients including Jama, Levine and Mollie King, along with musicians.
Eric Anthony Lopez Inks Deal Reload Management
Exclusive: Actor Eric Anthony Lopez has signed with Reload Management. Lopez, who is of Puerto Rican descent, is best known for starring in the Disney Studios pic Chang Can Dunk. He is also known for his work on stage. He made his Broadway...
- 8/7/2023
- by Max Goldbart and Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
Chinese folklore gets a Disney spin in “American Born Chinese,” an eight-episode series created by Kelvin Yu, which landed on Disney+ on Wednesday. An adaptation of the 2006 graphic novel by Gene Luen Yang, the series centers on Bay Area teenager Jin Wang (Ben Wang), who becomes entangled in a fantastical quest after a new classmate, Wei-Chen (Jimmy Liu), reveals himself to be the son of the Monkey King and recruits Jin to help him search for the Fourth Scroll.
Featuring an all-star cast that includes Michelle Yeoh, Ke Huy Quan, Stephanie Hsu, Chin Han, Yann Yann Yeo and Sydney Taylor, “American Born Chinese” recontextualizes ancient history for modern audiences both familiar and unfamiliar with the original stories, bringing together the talents of some of the most prominent Asian actors, writers and directors in entertainment.
Yeoh, the “Everything Everywhere All at Once” star who recently made history by becoming the first...
Featuring an all-star cast that includes Michelle Yeoh, Ke Huy Quan, Stephanie Hsu, Chin Han, Yann Yann Yeo and Sydney Taylor, “American Born Chinese” recontextualizes ancient history for modern audiences both familiar and unfamiliar with the original stories, bringing together the talents of some of the most prominent Asian actors, writers and directors in entertainment.
Yeoh, the “Everything Everywhere All at Once” star who recently made history by becoming the first...
- 5/24/2023
- by Rachel Seo
- Variety Film + TV
If your child read the incredibly popular graphic novel “American Born Chinese” in school, they’ve likely been anticipating this release for quite some time. The live-action adaptation of “American Born Chinese” debuts on Disney+ on Wednesday, May 24. It follows Jin Wang, the son of Chinese immigrants whose life changes forever when he meets Wei-Chen, an exchange student with an incredible secret. You can watch American Born Chinese: Season 1 with a subscription to Disney+.
How to Watch ‘American Born Chinese’ Series Premiere When: Wednesday, May 24, 2023 Where: Disney+ Stream: Watch with a subscription to Disney+. Sign Up Now$7.99+ / month disneyplus.com
Get Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ for just $12.99 a month ($13 savings).
About ‘American Born Chinese’ Series Premiere
Based on the graphic novel of the same name by Gene Luen Yang, “American Born Chinese” chronicles the trials and tribulations of a regular American teenager whose life is forever changed when he...
How to Watch ‘American Born Chinese’ Series Premiere When: Wednesday, May 24, 2023 Where: Disney+ Stream: Watch with a subscription to Disney+. Sign Up Now$7.99+ / month disneyplus.com
Get Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ for just $12.99 a month ($13 savings).
About ‘American Born Chinese’ Series Premiere
Based on the graphic novel of the same name by Gene Luen Yang, “American Born Chinese” chronicles the trials and tribulations of a regular American teenager whose life is forever changed when he...
- 5/24/2023
- by David Satin
- The Streamable
The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation (Etaf) announced on Tuesday that NBA Hall of Famer Earvin “Magic” Johnson and entrepreneur Cookie Johnson will be commemorated at this year’s Elizabeth Taylor Ball to End AIDS on Sept. 21 at the Beverly Hills Hotel. Both Magic and Cookie Johnson will be presented with the Elizabeth Taylor Commitment to End AIDS Award at the ball.
Paris Jackson and Christine Chiu serve as this year’s gala’s co-chairs. The event will sport a number of 270 guests entertained by a live auction in partnership with Chiu presenting a number of art/luxury experiences, a live performance and an exclusive look at items from The Elizabeth Taylor Archive.
“We loved Elizabeth Taylor’s passion, activism and the work we did together in the fight against HIV and AIDS,” said Magic and Cookie Johnson. “Since beginning this journey in the early ’90s, we’ve dedicated our lives...
Paris Jackson and Christine Chiu serve as this year’s gala’s co-chairs. The event will sport a number of 270 guests entertained by a live auction in partnership with Chiu presenting a number of art/luxury experiences, a live performance and an exclusive look at items from The Elizabeth Taylor Archive.
“We loved Elizabeth Taylor’s passion, activism and the work we did together in the fight against HIV and AIDS,” said Magic and Cookie Johnson. “Since beginning this journey in the early ’90s, we’ve dedicated our lives...
- 5/23/2023
- by Jazz Tangcay, McKinley Franklin and Sophia Scorziello
- Variety Film + TV
Disney+ Hotstar revealed the official trailer for the upcoming Original series “American Born Chinese.” The genre-hopping action-comedy series premieres with all eight episodes on May 24, only on Disney+ Hotstar. The Disney Branded Television series is produced by 20th Television.
Based on the graphic novel of the same name by Gene Luen Yang, “American Born Chinese” chronicles the trials and tribulations of a regular American teenager whose life is forever changed when he befriends the son of a mythological god. This is the story of a young man’s battle for his own identity, told through family, comedy, and action-packed Kung-Fu.
The coming-of-age adventure features an all-star international cast, including Academy® Award winners Michelle Yeoh and Ke Huy Quan (“Everything Everywhere All at Once”), Ben Wang (“Chang Can Dunk”), International Emmy(R) Award Nominee Yeo Yann Yann (“Wet Season”), Chin Han (“Mortal Kombat”), Daniel Wu (“Reminiscence”), former Taekwondo champion Jimmy Liu...
Based on the graphic novel of the same name by Gene Luen Yang, “American Born Chinese” chronicles the trials and tribulations of a regular American teenager whose life is forever changed when he befriends the son of a mythological god. This is the story of a young man’s battle for his own identity, told through family, comedy, and action-packed Kung-Fu.
The coming-of-age adventure features an all-star international cast, including Academy® Award winners Michelle Yeoh and Ke Huy Quan (“Everything Everywhere All at Once”), Ben Wang (“Chang Can Dunk”), International Emmy(R) Award Nominee Yeo Yann Yann (“Wet Season”), Chin Han (“Mortal Kombat”), Daniel Wu (“Reminiscence”), former Taekwondo champion Jimmy Liu...
- 4/24/2023
- by Editorial Desk
- GlamSham
Disney+ has dropped an exciting new trailer for one of its most highly anticipated new series, “American Born Chinese”.
Adapted from Gene Luen Yang’s acclaimed graphic novel, the genre-hopping action-comedy series “chronicles the trials and tribulations of a regular American teenager whose life is forever changed when he befriends the son of a mythological god,” notes the series’ synopsis. “This is the story of a young man’s battle for his own identity, told through family, comedy, and action-packed Kung-Fu.”
Heading the cast are Oscar-winning “Everything Everywhere All at Once” stars Michelle Yeoh and Ke Huy Quan, in addition to Ben Wang (“Chang Can Dunk”), Yeo Yann Yann (“Wet Season”), Chin Han (“Mortal Kombat”), Daniel Wu (“Reminiscence”), Sydney Taylor (“Just Add Magic”) and former Taekwondo champion Jimmy Liu.
Read More: ‘American Born Chinese’ Reveals Action-Packed TV Spot And Release Date
In addition, an array of guest stars will portray...
Adapted from Gene Luen Yang’s acclaimed graphic novel, the genre-hopping action-comedy series “chronicles the trials and tribulations of a regular American teenager whose life is forever changed when he befriends the son of a mythological god,” notes the series’ synopsis. “This is the story of a young man’s battle for his own identity, told through family, comedy, and action-packed Kung-Fu.”
Heading the cast are Oscar-winning “Everything Everywhere All at Once” stars Michelle Yeoh and Ke Huy Quan, in addition to Ben Wang (“Chang Can Dunk”), Yeo Yann Yann (“Wet Season”), Chin Han (“Mortal Kombat”), Daniel Wu (“Reminiscence”), Sydney Taylor (“Just Add Magic”) and former Taekwondo champion Jimmy Liu.
Read More: ‘American Born Chinese’ Reveals Action-Packed TV Spot And Release Date
In addition, an array of guest stars will portray...
- 4/21/2023
- by Brent Furdyk
- ET Canada
At Variety’s 10 Producers to Watch panel, held March 31 at the Sun Valley Film Festival, the first order of business was defining what it means to be a producer, a title — and a role — that encapsulates a number of responsibilities on a film.
“The way that I describe it is you’ve got to know a little bit about a lot of things in filmmaking,” said Rachael Fung, whose film “Fremont” later won best narrative film in the festival’s One in a Million category, recognizing features made for less than $1 million. “You’ve got to be able to understand and talk to every single person that touches the film at every single stage. And also it’s about finding those directors and filmmakers and understanding their vision and figuring out the best way to get that to screen.”
“There are practical things like getting money for the movie, casting,...
“The way that I describe it is you’ve got to know a little bit about a lot of things in filmmaking,” said Rachael Fung, whose film “Fremont” later won best narrative film in the festival’s One in a Million category, recognizing features made for less than $1 million. “You’ve got to be able to understand and talk to every single person that touches the film at every single stage. And also it’s about finding those directors and filmmakers and understanding their vision and figuring out the best way to get that to screen.”
“There are practical things like getting money for the movie, casting,...
- 4/5/2023
- by Todd Gilchrist
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Dexter Darden (Chang Can Dunk), Chloe Bridges (Maggie) and Robert Buckley (One Tree Hill) have joined the cast of Amber Ruffin and Kenny Smith NBC comedy pilot, Non-Evil Twin.
Darden plays Marcus, a contemporary nerd and tech developer for exercise equipment. He’s a good guy, but no fan of confrontation, which makes it hard for him to do the right thing at times. Bridges plays Robin, the CEO of Dandee Sports Apparel and Angie’s (Ruffin) corporate nemesis. She’s a self-described woman of faith who’s a shark in the boardroom. Buckley plays Samson, Angie’s not-so-bright lawyer who, in addition to providing legal counsel, provides Angie with anything she needs…be it copious amounts of rosé or sex.
The multi-camera pilot stars Ruffin playing the dual roles of twin sisters Angie and Amber. Angie is the ruthless CEO of AngieCorp, who is as heartless as she is rich.
Darden plays Marcus, a contemporary nerd and tech developer for exercise equipment. He’s a good guy, but no fan of confrontation, which makes it hard for him to do the right thing at times. Bridges plays Robin, the CEO of Dandee Sports Apparel and Angie’s (Ruffin) corporate nemesis. She’s a self-described woman of faith who’s a shark in the boardroom. Buckley plays Samson, Angie’s not-so-bright lawyer who, in addition to providing legal counsel, provides Angie with anything she needs…be it copious amounts of rosé or sex.
The multi-camera pilot stars Ruffin playing the dual roles of twin sisters Angie and Amber. Angie is the ruthless CEO of AngieCorp, who is as heartless as she is rich.
- 4/4/2023
- by Rosy Cordero
- Deadline Film + TV
Plot: Follows Chang, a 16-year-old, Asian American high school student in the marching band, who bets the school basketball star that he can dunk by Homecoming. The bet leads the 5’ 8″ Chang on a quest to find the hops he needs to dunk in order to impress his crush, Kristy, and finally gain the attention and respect of his high school peers. But before he can rise up and truly throw one down, he’ll have to reexamine everything he knows about himself, his friendships and his family.
Review: The tried and true formula of sports underdog stories has been a staple of movies for decades. From Rocky to Hoosiers, The Mighty Ducks to Remember the Titans, every sport has had a cinematic showcase allowing audiences to believe that even the average can do the incredible. With training montages, adversity overcome, and some inspirational music to liven the mood, sports movies...
Review: The tried and true formula of sports underdog stories has been a staple of movies for decades. From Rocky to Hoosiers, The Mighty Ducks to Remember the Titans, every sport has had a cinematic showcase allowing audiences to believe that even the average can do the incredible. With training montages, adversity overcome, and some inspirational music to liven the mood, sports movies...
- 3/14/2023
- by Alex Maidy
- JoBlo.com
Disney+ has revealed the May 24 premiere date for the Disney+ Original series “American Born Chinese,” in a newly-released :30 TV spot that will air during tonight’s Oscars telecast’s commercial breaks. This :30 first look at the genre-hopping action-comedy from Disney Branded Television series produced by 20th Television, celebrates the show’s three Oscar nominees: Michelle Yeoh, Ke Huy Quan and guest star Stephanie Hsu. Based on the graphic novel of the same name by Gene Luen Yang, “American Born Chinese” tells the story of Jin Wang, an average teenager juggling his high school social life with his home life. When he meets a new foreign student on the first day of the school year, even more worlds collide as Jin is unwittingly entangled in a battle of Chinese mythological gods.
The coming-of-age adventure features an all-star international cast, including Academy(R) Award and Golden Globe winners Michelle Yeoh...
The coming-of-age adventure features an all-star international cast, including Academy(R) Award and Golden Globe winners Michelle Yeoh...
- 3/14/2023
- by Hollywood Outbreak
- HollywoodOutbreak.com
Today, Disney+ revealed the May 24 premiere date for the Disney+ Original series “American Born Chinese,” in a newly-released :30 TV spot that will air during tonight’s Oscars telecast’s commercial breaks. This :30 first look at the genre-hopping action-comedy from Disney Branded Television series produced by 20th Television, celebrates the show’s three Oscar nominees: Michelle Yeoh, Ke Huy Quan and guest star Stephanie Hsu. Based on the graphic novel of the same name by Gene Luen Yang, “American Born Chinese” tells the story of Jin Wang, an average teenager juggling his high school social life with his home life. When he meets a new foreign student on the first day of the school year, even more worlds collide as Jin is unwittingly entangled in a battle of Chinese mythological gods. The coming-of-age adventure features an all-star international cast, including Academy® Award-Nominees and Golden Globe winners Michelle Yeoh and...
- 3/12/2023
- by Thomas Miller
- Seat42F
Disney+ is giving fans a first look at its much-anticipated martial arts adventure.
The streamer released a jam-packed action-filled 30 second tv spot for “American Born Chinese” on Sunday, revealing an epic fantasy adventure.
“Dark forces will be coming,” Michelle Yeoh’s character warns the young protagonist against scenes of magical mayhem. “The fate of the world hangs in the balance.”
Read More: Jamie Lee Curtis Says She ‘Had No Idea’ She Kissed Michelle Yeoh In Viral SAG Awards Moment
The series is based on the graphic novel of the same name by Gene Luen Yang, which follows Jin Wang, played by Ben Wang, a teenager who’s struggling to juggle his school and home life together. Things get more complicated when he meets a new foreign student on the first day of school and finds himself tangled in an epic fight between mythological Chinese gods.
The series stars Academy Award-Nominees...
The streamer released a jam-packed action-filled 30 second tv spot for “American Born Chinese” on Sunday, revealing an epic fantasy adventure.
“Dark forces will be coming,” Michelle Yeoh’s character warns the young protagonist against scenes of magical mayhem. “The fate of the world hangs in the balance.”
Read More: Jamie Lee Curtis Says She ‘Had No Idea’ She Kissed Michelle Yeoh In Viral SAG Awards Moment
The series is based on the graphic novel of the same name by Gene Luen Yang, which follows Jin Wang, played by Ben Wang, a teenager who’s struggling to juggle his school and home life together. Things get more complicated when he meets a new foreign student on the first day of school and finds himself tangled in an epic fight between mythological Chinese gods.
The series stars Academy Award-Nominees...
- 3/12/2023
- by Anita Tai
- ET Canada
This weekend is when the contenders either become winners or also-rans. The 2023 Oscars air on Sunday (the telecast is technically on our TV show awards contenders list). That’s the big story in cinema right now, so this weekend is light on new releases and especially light on new releases that could become awards contenders in the future. But this weekend does have your best chance yet to watch one of this year’s Best Picture nominees.
The contender to watch this weekend: “Women Talking”
“Women Talking” has been available on-demand for a couple of weeks, but at the moment it’s easier to watch than ever before. The Best Picture nominee is streaming free on Prime Video for a very limited time – until Sunday at midnight Et/9 p.m. Pt. The film tells the story of a group of women in an ultraconservative religious sect deciding whether to stay...
The contender to watch this weekend: “Women Talking”
“Women Talking” has been available on-demand for a couple of weeks, but at the moment it’s easier to watch than ever before. The Best Picture nominee is streaming free on Prime Video for a very limited time – until Sunday at midnight Et/9 p.m. Pt. The film tells the story of a group of women in an ultraconservative religious sect deciding whether to stay...
- 3/11/2023
- by Liam Mathews
- Gold Derby
March is a big month for Lena Waithe and her Hillman Grad production banner. Yet, Waithe’s four films, all debuting within weeks of one another — “A Thousand and One,” “Kokomo City,” “Being Mary Tyler Moore,” and “Chang Can Dunk” — have virtually nothing in common. They range from a Sundance drama to an experimental documentary to a biographical HBO doc to a Disney+ teen movie, wavering widely in genre, tone, studio, and subject matter.
Well, almost nothing in common. All four films are the feature debuts of their directors. Incubating talent and giving them a shot has become an ethos for Waithe and Hillman Grad, something that has allowed the company and Waithe’s brand to blossom since launching in 2015.
Waithe’s producing success dates back to 2014, when her first project as a producer on 2014’s “Dear White People” also happened to be the debut film of Justin Simien and...
Well, almost nothing in common. All four films are the feature debuts of their directors. Incubating talent and giving them a shot has become an ethos for Waithe and Hillman Grad, something that has allowed the company and Waithe’s brand to blossom since launching in 2015.
Waithe’s producing success dates back to 2014, when her first project as a producer on 2014’s “Dear White People” also happened to be the debut film of Justin Simien and...
- 3/10/2023
- by Brian Welk
- Indiewire
There’s a brand new original film coming to Disney+ on Friday, March 10! “Chang Can Dunk” centers on a young Asian-American teen and basketball fanatic who just wants to dunk and get the girl ends up learning much more about himself, his best friends, and his mother. Will he be able to make the leap, despite a stature that is built more for layups than for stuffing the rock home? You can watch Chang Can Dunk with a subscription to Disney+.
How to Watch ‘Chang Can Dunk’ When: Friday, March 10, 2023 Where: Disney+ Stream: Watch with a subscription to Disney+. Sign Up Now$7.99+ / month disneyplus.com
Get Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ for just $12.99 a month ($13 savings).
About ‘Chang Can Dunk’
“Chang Can Dunk” follows Chang, a 16-year-old, Asian American high school student in the marching band, who bets the school basketball star that he can dunk by Homecoming.
The bet leads...
How to Watch ‘Chang Can Dunk’ When: Friday, March 10, 2023 Where: Disney+ Stream: Watch with a subscription to Disney+. Sign Up Now$7.99+ / month disneyplus.com
Get Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ for just $12.99 a month ($13 savings).
About ‘Chang Can Dunk’
“Chang Can Dunk” follows Chang, a 16-year-old, Asian American high school student in the marching band, who bets the school basketball star that he can dunk by Homecoming.
The bet leads...
- 3/10/2023
- by David Satin
- The Streamable
It’s easy to think that the latest offering on Disney+ will be yet another inspirational, underdog sports movie. After all, the film concerns a 16-year-old Asian-American high-school student who sets out to prove that he can perform a slam dunk despite his underwhelming 5’8” height. So you can expect that by the end of Chang Can Dunk the titular hero will defy the odds, defeat his foe and win the hearts of everyone concerned. Right?
Well, yes and no. Writer-director Jingyi Shao covers all those bases (wrong sport, I know), including the obligatory training montage and the introduction of a wholesome romantic interest. But the filmmaker, making his feature debut, also has more interesting things in mind, delivering a darker, more complex story that nonetheless proves utterly heartwarming by the end.
At the story’s beginning, Chang (Bloom Li, making a terrific feature debut, in which he’s onscreen nearly...
Well, yes and no. Writer-director Jingyi Shao covers all those bases (wrong sport, I know), including the obligatory training montage and the introduction of a wholesome romantic interest. But the filmmaker, making his feature debut, also has more interesting things in mind, delivering a darker, more complex story that nonetheless proves utterly heartwarming by the end.
At the story’s beginning, Chang (Bloom Li, making a terrific feature debut, in which he’s onscreen nearly...
- 3/10/2023
- by Frank Scheck
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
“Chang Can Dunk” doesn’t go the way you’d expect, and that’s a good thing. Here’s a Disney movie about a 5-foot-8-inch Chinese American high school basketball player who bets his rival that he can dunk by the end of the season. He gets his wish about an hour in, but there’s still a long way for the character to go — and grow — in a film that believes maturity isn’t achieved by shortcuts.
The result marks the attention-worthy debut of writer-director Jingyi Shao, and exemplifies the sort of movies Disney should be making: It has its values in the right place, but doesn’t pretend its hero is perfect. If there’s a villain in “Chang Can Dunk,” that role is arguably filled by the title character. In time, the obsessive teen’s ultra-competitive personality winds up alienating practically everyone in his life, except...
The result marks the attention-worthy debut of writer-director Jingyi Shao, and exemplifies the sort of movies Disney should be making: It has its values in the right place, but doesn’t pretend its hero is perfect. If there’s a villain in “Chang Can Dunk,” that role is arguably filled by the title character. In time, the obsessive teen’s ultra-competitive personality winds up alienating practically everyone in his life, except...
- 3/10/2023
- by Peter Debruge
- Variety Film + TV
Welcome to Global Breakouts, Deadline’s fortnightly strand in which we shine a spotlight on the TV shows and films killing it in their local territories. The industry is as globalized as it’s ever been, but breakout hits are appearing in pockets of the world all the time and it can be hard to keep track… So we’re going to do the hard work for you.
This week we’re featuring our first movie, Japanese basketball animation The First Slam Dunk from legendary One Piece studio Toei Animation. Since its Japan launch in early December 2022, it’s amassed more than $115M at the global box office.
Name: The First Slam Dunk
Country: Japan
Producer: Toei Animation
International Sales: Toei Animation
For fans of: Chang Can Dunk, Demon Slayer, YA drama
Global audiences are no stranger to Japanese animation and manga adaptations, particularly with the recent success of entries from the Demon Slayer,...
This week we’re featuring our first movie, Japanese basketball animation The First Slam Dunk from legendary One Piece studio Toei Animation. Since its Japan launch in early December 2022, it’s amassed more than $115M at the global box office.
Name: The First Slam Dunk
Country: Japan
Producer: Toei Animation
International Sales: Toei Animation
For fans of: Chang Can Dunk, Demon Slayer, YA drama
Global audiences are no stranger to Japanese animation and manga adaptations, particularly with the recent success of entries from the Demon Slayer,...
- 3/9/2023
- by Nancy Tartaglione
- Deadline Film + TV
With its list of new releases for March 2023, Disney+ is premiering another season of arguably its most successful and recognizable series. That’s right: it’s time for more of The Mandalorian. Ever heard of it??!??!?
The Mandalorian season 3 premieres Wednesday, March 1 on Disney+ with “Chapter 17” and will continue to air new episodes weekly. A lot has changed since The Mandalorian signed off in its mind-bending season 2 finale on Dec. 18, 2020. Star Pedro Pascal has continued his destiny as a lone wolf guiding a young cub with The Last of Us. Cara Dune actress Gina Carano did some stuff. And most importantly: The Book of Boba Fett served as a sort of Mandalorian season 2.5. So when you see Grogu a.k.a. Baby Yoda back in season 3 despite jetting off in the season 2 finale, rest assured that that it all makes canonical sense.
In addition to The Mandalorian season 3 this month,...
The Mandalorian season 3 premieres Wednesday, March 1 on Disney+ with “Chapter 17” and will continue to air new episodes weekly. A lot has changed since The Mandalorian signed off in its mind-bending season 2 finale on Dec. 18, 2020. Star Pedro Pascal has continued his destiny as a lone wolf guiding a young cub with The Last of Us. Cara Dune actress Gina Carano did some stuff. And most importantly: The Book of Boba Fett served as a sort of Mandalorian season 2.5. So when you see Grogu a.k.a. Baby Yoda back in season 3 despite jetting off in the season 2 finale, rest assured that that it all makes canonical sense.
In addition to The Mandalorian season 3 this month,...
- 3/1/2023
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
Disney+ has unveiled the trailer for “Chang Can Dunk” from filmmaker Jingyi Shao, one of Variety’s “10 Directors to Watch” for 2023.
The coming-of-age sports film — which begins streaming March 10 — follows Chang (Bloom Li), an unpopular high schooler who loves basketball and Pokémon. Chang finds himself wagering a bet with the school’s all-star player, Matt (Chase Liefeld), that he will be able to make a slam dunk — in 12 weeks time.
The film also stars Zoe Renee, Ben Wang, Dexter Darden, Anthony Lopez, Nile Bullock, Mardy Ma and Angel Oquendo.
“I was really inspired by early ’90s coming-of-age films, but specifically sports-coming-of-age films like ‘Mighty Ducks,’” Shao tells Variety of his feature directorial debut.
The film examines teenage social hierarchies and family dynamics from the perspective of people of color living in communities where they’re a minority population.
“In a town where there aren’t a lot of other Asian American families,...
The coming-of-age sports film — which begins streaming March 10 — follows Chang (Bloom Li), an unpopular high schooler who loves basketball and Pokémon. Chang finds himself wagering a bet with the school’s all-star player, Matt (Chase Liefeld), that he will be able to make a slam dunk — in 12 weeks time.
The film also stars Zoe Renee, Ben Wang, Dexter Darden, Anthony Lopez, Nile Bullock, Mardy Ma and Angel Oquendo.
“I was really inspired by early ’90s coming-of-age films, but specifically sports-coming-of-age films like ‘Mighty Ducks,’” Shao tells Variety of his feature directorial debut.
The film examines teenage social hierarchies and family dynamics from the perspective of people of color living in communities where they’re a minority population.
“In a town where there aren’t a lot of other Asian American families,...
- 2/21/2023
- by Charna Flam
- Variety Film + TV
On the heels of the latest Marvel premiere and “Wakanda Forever” breaking records for Disney+, the streamer switches gears for the month of March to a galaxy far, far away. That’s right: It’s Star Wars season on streaming, with more new episodes of “The Bad Batch” as well as the long-anticipated Season 3 premiere of “The Mandalorian.”
Season 3 picks up with Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal) and his adorable charge Grogu, who shared an emotional goodbye at the end of Season 2 but reunited in “The Book of Boba Fett.” Din sets out to unlock the secrets of Mandalore, including his possession of the Dark Saber and its complicated connections to the family of Bo-Katan Kryze (Katee Sackhoff). None of this would have fazed Din a short time ago, when he was a ruthless bounty hunter who adopted Mandalorian traditions, but now he has someone to protect — and the power of the Force at his side.
Season 3 picks up with Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal) and his adorable charge Grogu, who shared an emotional goodbye at the end of Season 2 but reunited in “The Book of Boba Fett.” Din sets out to unlock the secrets of Mandalore, including his possession of the Dark Saber and its complicated connections to the family of Bo-Katan Kryze (Katee Sackhoff). None of this would have fazed Din a short time ago, when he was a ruthless bounty hunter who adopted Mandalorian traditions, but now he has someone to protect — and the power of the Force at his side.
- 2/17/2023
- by Proma Khosla
- Indiewire
How Two Sundance-Winning Films Forecast the Future for Lena Waithe’s Hillman Grad Production Company
Lena Waithe’s Hillman Grad has much to celebrate in just the first few months of the new year: with two films, “A Thousand and One” and “Kokomo City” winning big at Sundance; the family film “Chang Can Dunk” launching March 10 on Disney+ ; a documentary about Mary Tyler Moore premiering at SXSW; and a sixth season of “The Chi” on the way.
The company, founded by the actor, producer and Emmy-winning writer in 2015, is at a pinnacle moment, but it’s also just getting started.
“Here’s the really interesting part about the next three months, it’s not like we snapped our fingers and got here,” Hillman Grad CEO Rishi Rajani says, as he and Waithe joined Variety for a discussion over Zoom following the announcement of their Sundance wins. “This next three months is the culmination of the last few years of what Hillman Grad has built.”
He...
The company, founded by the actor, producer and Emmy-winning writer in 2015, is at a pinnacle moment, but it’s also just getting started.
“Here’s the really interesting part about the next three months, it’s not like we snapped our fingers and got here,” Hillman Grad CEO Rishi Rajani says, as he and Waithe joined Variety for a discussion over Zoom following the announcement of their Sundance wins. “This next three months is the culmination of the last few years of what Hillman Grad has built.”
He...
- 2/3/2023
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: The Francis Lawrence directed Lionsgate prequel Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes continues to expand its ensemble cast with a third round of actors playing mentors and tributes from the Suzanne Collins’ YA novel.
Max Raphael will play Festus Creed, mentor to a tribute from District 4. Zoe Renee will play Lysistrata Vickers, mentor to a tribute from District 12. Ayomide Adegun will play Pliny “Pup” Harrington, mentor to a tribute from District 7. Kaitlyn Akinpelumi will portray Domita Whimsiwick, mentor to a tribute from District 10. Sofia Sanchez will play Wovey, tribute from District 8; while Amélie Hoeferle will play Vipsania Sickle, mentor to a tribute from District 7.
They join previously announced cast members Tom Blyth, Rachel Zegler, Hunter Schafer, Jason Schwartzman, Josh Andrés Rivera, as well as two previous rounds of tributes and mentors.
Logline for the prequel in the $3 billion-grossing franchise, which hits theaters on Nov. 17, 2023: 18-year-old Coriolanus...
Max Raphael will play Festus Creed, mentor to a tribute from District 4. Zoe Renee will play Lysistrata Vickers, mentor to a tribute from District 12. Ayomide Adegun will play Pliny “Pup” Harrington, mentor to a tribute from District 7. Kaitlyn Akinpelumi will portray Domita Whimsiwick, mentor to a tribute from District 10. Sofia Sanchez will play Wovey, tribute from District 8; while Amélie Hoeferle will play Vipsania Sickle, mentor to a tribute from District 7.
They join previously announced cast members Tom Blyth, Rachel Zegler, Hunter Schafer, Jason Schwartzman, Josh Andrés Rivera, as well as two previous rounds of tributes and mentors.
Logline for the prequel in the $3 billion-grossing franchise, which hits theaters on Nov. 17, 2023: 18-year-old Coriolanus...
- 6/28/2022
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Hillman Grad Productions has named the 22 creatives selected for its second annual Mentorship Lab, geared toward uplifting marginalized creatives in film and television, which launches in Los Angeles on March 18, and will wrap up with a showcase event in October.
Those participating include creative executives Andy Park, Franco Chacon, Geralyn Smith, Jocelyn Waddell and Wai Wing Lau; writers Abi Rich, Blake Williams, Charlene Little, Cydney Fisher, Emily Teerasuphaset, Luveza Mubashar, Rubén Mendive, Van Newman and Victoria George; and actors Donnevan Tolbert, Jonny Williams, Kashayna Johnson, Lanora Terraé Hayden, Lee Hubilla, Lynnese Page, Michaela Obro-Ababio and Tj Chester.
The eight-month, tuition-free program funded by Hillman Grad’s CEO and Founder Lena Waithe offers mentees the opportunity to enhance their creative skillset through personalized instruction from industry professionals, creating additional pathways to bring more people from diverse backgrounds into entertainment, both in front of and behind the camera. It provides a...
Those participating include creative executives Andy Park, Franco Chacon, Geralyn Smith, Jocelyn Waddell and Wai Wing Lau; writers Abi Rich, Blake Williams, Charlene Little, Cydney Fisher, Emily Teerasuphaset, Luveza Mubashar, Rubén Mendive, Van Newman and Victoria George; and actors Donnevan Tolbert, Jonny Williams, Kashayna Johnson, Lanora Terraé Hayden, Lee Hubilla, Lynnese Page, Michaela Obro-Ababio and Tj Chester.
The eight-month, tuition-free program funded by Hillman Grad’s CEO and Founder Lena Waithe offers mentees the opportunity to enhance their creative skillset through personalized instruction from industry professionals, creating additional pathways to bring more people from diverse backgrounds into entertainment, both in front of and behind the camera. It provides a...
- 3/16/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Hillman Grad, the multi-platform entertainment company founded by actor, producer and Emmy-winning writer Lena Waithe, has promoted veteran executive Rishi Rajani to CEO.
In his new role, Rajani will oversee all divisions across Hillman Grad, guide the company’s overall strategic and creative direction, and develop new business partnerships. Waithe will retain her position as founder and chair.
Since joining the company in 2018 as president of film and television, Rajani has played a key role in furthering Hillman Grad’s mission to “create art that redefines the status quo by amplifying and celebrating the stories and voices of diverse, historically marginalized communities across all industries.”
“Rishi Rajani has worked tirelessly to help make Hillman Grad what it is today,” stated Waithe, announcing the promotion. “I’m honored to work alongside him as we embark on a new chapter in our company. Our goal is to not only open doors for the next generation,...
In his new role, Rajani will oversee all divisions across Hillman Grad, guide the company’s overall strategic and creative direction, and develop new business partnerships. Waithe will retain her position as founder and chair.
Since joining the company in 2018 as president of film and television, Rajani has played a key role in furthering Hillman Grad’s mission to “create art that redefines the status quo by amplifying and celebrating the stories and voices of diverse, historically marginalized communities across all industries.”
“Rishi Rajani has worked tirelessly to help make Hillman Grad what it is today,” stated Waithe, announcing the promotion. “I’m honored to work alongside him as we embark on a new chapter in our company. Our goal is to not only open doors for the next generation,...
- 3/15/2022
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
In our Q&a series Popsugar Crush, we get to know some of our favorite celebs' more intimate details - from their first celebrity crush to the best love advice they've ever received. This month, we're crushing on Saved by the Bell's Dexter Darden.
Dexter Darden grew up watching reruns of the original Saved by the Bell series before catching the school bus. So reprising his role as DeVante Young in Peacock's Saved by the Bell reboot - which returned for a second season on Nov. 24 - feels surreal for the New Jersey-born actor. "The original cast members have a bigger presence this season, but it's a very different show in terms of content," he told Popsugar. "We pay homage to the original, but [creator] Tracey [Wigfield] found a cool way of allowing this reboot to be ours in its own way."
"DeVante and Nadia share the same skin color, but...
Dexter Darden grew up watching reruns of the original Saved by the Bell series before catching the school bus. So reprising his role as DeVante Young in Peacock's Saved by the Bell reboot - which returned for a second season on Nov. 24 - feels surreal for the New Jersey-born actor. "The original cast members have a bigger presence this season, but it's a very different show in terms of content," he told Popsugar. "We pay homage to the original, but [creator] Tracey [Wigfield] found a cool way of allowing this reboot to be ours in its own way."
"DeVante and Nadia share the same skin color, but...
- 12/1/2021
- by Princess Gabbara
- Popsugar.com
Exclusive: Disney Studios feature Chang Can Dunk has added Dexter Darden and Ben Wang to the cast of the high school basketball movie, which is intended for Disney+.
In the Jingyi Shao directed and written movie, a 16 year-old 5’6” Asian-American student (Bloom Li) bets the school jock he can dunk a basketball at Homecoming, leading him on a quest to find the hops he needs to dunk and finally impress his crush. Chase Liefeld also stars.
Darden will play DeAndre, a former pro basketball player and two-time Estonia League Mvp. Deandre is a millennial hustler trying to grow his social media following, and he agrees to coach Chang. Wang will play Bo, Chang’s best friend.
Producers are Lena Waithe and Rishi Rajani through their Hillman Grad Productions banner, Brad Weston and Makeready.
Darden will reprise his starring role in Peacock/NBC hit series reboot of Saved By The Bell returning for season 2 Nov.
In the Jingyi Shao directed and written movie, a 16 year-old 5’6” Asian-American student (Bloom Li) bets the school jock he can dunk a basketball at Homecoming, leading him on a quest to find the hops he needs to dunk and finally impress his crush. Chase Liefeld also stars.
Darden will play DeAndre, a former pro basketball player and two-time Estonia League Mvp. Deandre is a millennial hustler trying to grow his social media following, and he agrees to coach Chang. Wang will play Bo, Chang’s best friend.
Producers are Lena Waithe and Rishi Rajani through their Hillman Grad Productions banner, Brad Weston and Makeready.
Darden will reprise his starring role in Peacock/NBC hit series reboot of Saved By The Bell returning for season 2 Nov.
- 11/4/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Endeavor Content has made a partnership with veteran producer and former studio executive Brad Weston and his Makeready banner. They’ve made a multi-year deal to finance and produce film, TV and documentary content. It positions Weston to become a cornerstone content supplier to the global film/TV studio that just generated the Venice prize-winner The Lost Daughter and the hit Hulu series Nine Perfect Strangers.
Makeready will become a label of Endeavor Content, with full development and production funding, as well as all of Endeavor Content’s studio and production infrastructure. EC will provide Makeready with the resources to build a formidable slate of premium, filmmaker- and talent-driven film, TV series and documentaries across all platforms. Joining Weston at Makeready will be Oscar Montemayor and Liz Zorn. Weston is in talks to bring in a senior executive in the next few weeks.
Led by EC’s head of...
Makeready will become a label of Endeavor Content, with full development and production funding, as well as all of Endeavor Content’s studio and production infrastructure. EC will provide Makeready with the resources to build a formidable slate of premium, filmmaker- and talent-driven film, TV series and documentaries across all platforms. Joining Weston at Makeready will be Oscar Montemayor and Liz Zorn. Weston is in talks to bring in a senior executive in the next few weeks.
Led by EC’s head of...
- 10/21/2021
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Chase Liefeld has joined the cast of Disney Studios’ high school basketball movie Chang Can Dunk which is intended for debut on Disney+.
The Yorba Linda, CA native will play Matt, the high school’s star basketball player, who becomes an obsession of 16-year old Chang, who we told you Bloom Li is set to play. Chang is a constantly marginalized, not-popular kid who wants to learn how to dunk so bad, he wants to best Matt at his game and win the adoration of Kristy.
Jingyi Shao is writing and directing the feature from Lena Waithe and Rishi Rajani’s Hillman Grad Productions. They’re producing with Brad Weston and Negin Salmasi.
Liefeld’s credits include the indie feature Honor Student from director Tamika Miller and the YouTube series Sunnyside Up. He is repped by Robert Stein Management and Gersh.
The Yorba Linda, CA native will play Matt, the high school’s star basketball player, who becomes an obsession of 16-year old Chang, who we told you Bloom Li is set to play. Chang is a constantly marginalized, not-popular kid who wants to learn how to dunk so bad, he wants to best Matt at his game and win the adoration of Kristy.
Jingyi Shao is writing and directing the feature from Lena Waithe and Rishi Rajani’s Hillman Grad Productions. They’re producing with Brad Weston and Negin Salmasi.
Liefeld’s credits include the indie feature Honor Student from director Tamika Miller and the YouTube series Sunnyside Up. He is repped by Robert Stein Management and Gersh.
- 9/29/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Bloom Li has landed the lead role in Disney Studios’ high school basketball feature Chang Can Dunk, which Jingyi Shao will direct and write.
In Chang Can Dunk, a 16-year old, constantly marginalized, not-popular high school kid and wannabe basketball player becomes obsessed with the idea of learning to dunk, all in an effort to best the school’s basketball star, Matt — and hopefully win the adoration of the very pretty Kristy.
Lena Waithe and Rishi Rajani are producing through their Hillman Grad Productions. Brad Weston and Negin Salmasi are also producing the movie, which is intended for Disney+.
Li has had a recurring role on Awesomeness TV’s My Dead Ex and appearances on CBS’ S.W.A.T. and Hulu’s Into the Dark. Some of the numerous short films in which Bloom appeared went on to play at the Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival, Palm Springs International ShortFest and South by Southwest.
In Chang Can Dunk, a 16-year old, constantly marginalized, not-popular high school kid and wannabe basketball player becomes obsessed with the idea of learning to dunk, all in an effort to best the school’s basketball star, Matt — and hopefully win the adoration of the very pretty Kristy.
Lena Waithe and Rishi Rajani are producing through their Hillman Grad Productions. Brad Weston and Negin Salmasi are also producing the movie, which is intended for Disney+.
Li has had a recurring role on Awesomeness TV’s My Dead Ex and appearances on CBS’ S.W.A.T. and Hulu’s Into the Dark. Some of the numerous short films in which Bloom appeared went on to play at the Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival, Palm Springs International ShortFest and South by Southwest.
- 9/22/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
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