Speaking at a Tiffcom seminar, Cai Gongming, founder of Chinese distributor Road Pictures, explained how his company has built up Japanese anime to be one of the strongest film import categories in the mainland China market. And although Chinese audiences remain focused on local, Chinese-language movies, he also said that Hollywood has been making a slow comeback in the market this year.
Road Pictures scored major hits in 2023 with Japanese anime titles Suzume, which grossed $117M, and The First Slam Dunk, which took around $84M. As a result, the total box office of this category in the China market increased by 90% year-on-year.
This year, Cai said the combined box office of Japanese anime movies is on the same level as 2023, although the per picture average is lower as twice as many titles have been released. Road Pictures’ biggest hits have included Spy x Family Code: White, with around $40M, and...
Road Pictures scored major hits in 2023 with Japanese anime titles Suzume, which grossed $117M, and The First Slam Dunk, which took around $84M. As a result, the total box office of this category in the China market increased by 90% year-on-year.
This year, Cai said the combined box office of Japanese anime movies is on the same level as 2023, although the per picture average is lower as twice as many titles have been released. Road Pictures’ biggest hits have included Spy x Family Code: White, with around $40M, and...
- 10/30/2024
- by Liz Shackleton
- Deadline Film + TV
As the format continues to gain traction, here’s our regularly-updated list of upcoming 4K Ultra HD disc releases in the UK.
Sitting alongside our list of upcoming DVD and Blu-ray releases (that you can find here), we’re also keeping a calendar for those who support the 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray disc format. As we learn of new UK releases, we’ll add them to this list.
We have started adding shopping links too. We’d be obliged if you clicked on them, as it really helps us in our quest to make the Film Stories project of magazines, website and podcast profitable. We’re a 100% independent publisher, and we quite like drinking coffee. It’d be lovely to afford some more.
Without further ado, here are the titles we know about…
Out now
7th October: The Boy And The Heron (Steelbook)
7th October: The Sword And The Sorcerer...
Sitting alongside our list of upcoming DVD and Blu-ray releases (that you can find here), we’re also keeping a calendar for those who support the 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray disc format. As we learn of new UK releases, we’ll add them to this list.
We have started adding shopping links too. We’d be obliged if you clicked on them, as it really helps us in our quest to make the Film Stories project of magazines, website and podcast profitable. We’re a 100% independent publisher, and we quite like drinking coffee. It’d be lovely to afford some more.
Without further ado, here are the titles we know about…
Out now
7th October: The Boy And The Heron (Steelbook)
7th October: The Sword And The Sorcerer...
- 10/29/2024
- by Simon Brew
- Film Stories
Among anime fans, Studio Ghibli enjoys special prominence due to its distinct storytelling and art style. Hayao Miyazaki has built an empire by consistently delivering on fans’ expectations and even surpassing them with his works. There are not many who can even come close to the spectacle of Studio Ghibli. However, whenever comparisons arise, fans like to pit Studio Ghibli against Pixar.
A still from Miyazaki’s recent The Boy and The Heron | Credits: Studio Ghibli
Similar to what Ghibli films are to fans, Pixar films have resonated with many, too. The success and popularity of Pixar is phenomenal. While some fans are constantly pitting them against each other it was the Chief Creative Officer of Pixar, Pete Docter, who shared an insight from his dialogue with Miyazaki. With one simple sentence, we learn a lot about the extraordinary track record of Miyazaki.
A Key Aspect of Hayao Miyazaki’s...
A still from Miyazaki’s recent The Boy and The Heron | Credits: Studio Ghibli
Similar to what Ghibli films are to fans, Pixar films have resonated with many, too. The success and popularity of Pixar is phenomenal. While some fans are constantly pitting them against each other it was the Chief Creative Officer of Pixar, Pete Docter, who shared an insight from his dialogue with Miyazaki. With one simple sentence, we learn a lot about the extraordinary track record of Miyazaki.
A Key Aspect of Hayao Miyazaki’s...
- 10/28/2024
- by Laveena Joshi
- FandomWire
The 37th Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) is doubling down on global networking and gender equality initiatives, according to festival chair Ando Hiroyasu.
“During the Covid-19 pandemic, various restrictions made this difficult, but we are finally able to engage in genuine networking,” Ando told Variety. The festival has relocated its TIFF Lounge, a hub for international exchange, to the more centrally located Lexus Meets venue to facilitate better interaction between Japanese and international filmmakers.
Among this year’s notable additions is a new Women’s Empowerment section. The initiative follows TIFF becoming the first Asian film festival to sign the Collectif 50/50 charter in 2021. Collectif 50/50 is an international organization promoting gender equality in the film industry. “Through this new section, showcasing films that focus on women’s achievements and holding a symposium, we hope to listen to wider range of voices, encouraging discussions and initiatives that promote and reflect on women’s empowerment,...
“During the Covid-19 pandemic, various restrictions made this difficult, but we are finally able to engage in genuine networking,” Ando told Variety. The festival has relocated its TIFF Lounge, a hub for international exchange, to the more centrally located Lexus Meets venue to facilitate better interaction between Japanese and international filmmakers.
Among this year’s notable additions is a new Women’s Empowerment section. The initiative follows TIFF becoming the first Asian film festival to sign the Collectif 50/50 charter in 2021. Collectif 50/50 is an international organization promoting gender equality in the film industry. “Through this new section, showcasing films that focus on women’s achievements and holding a symposium, we hope to listen to wider range of voices, encouraging discussions and initiatives that promote and reflect on women’s empowerment,...
- 10/28/2024
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Hayao Miyazaki often reflects on his own life and values through his films and The Boy and The Heron was no exception. If anything, it was the most accurate to his grief and sentiments surrounding his mother’s death, whom he was incredibly close to, and his distaste for his father’s contribution to Japan’s part in World War II. Despite the personal nuance and a clear anti-war sentiment, China has claimed The Boy and The Heron is a hypocritical film that doesn’t match what Miyazaki has claimed about war so many times in his life.
Mahito releasing a Warawara in The Boy and The Heron. [Credit: Studio Ghibli]
The concerns emerging from China about The Boy and The Heron are valid and have some fruit to them due to the movie’s lack of focus on the war. Many reviews said that the plot was rather disconnected and confusing.
Mahito releasing a Warawara in The Boy and The Heron. [Credit: Studio Ghibli]
The concerns emerging from China about The Boy and The Heron are valid and have some fruit to them due to the movie’s lack of focus on the war. Many reviews said that the plot was rather disconnected and confusing.
- 10/26/2024
- by Bidisha Mitra
- FandomWire
We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.
Karen Fukuhara has had a particularly fine career, particularly in recent years. Setting aside credits in "Bullet Train" and Cartoon Network's much-beloved animated series "Craig of the Creek," Fukuhara has made a name for herself as fan-favorite Kimiko on Amazon Prime Video's violent superhero series "The Boys." Given that show's continued success, it seems more than likely we'll be seeing more from the actress in the years to come. But her start in the business wasn't actually as an actress. Rather, it was as a celebrity interviewer for the Disney Channel.
In an interview with Collider to promote "The Boys" season 4, Fukuhara dove into her past on Disney's "Movie Surfers" show. The series featured kids interviewing celebrities and highlighting upcoming movies for their audience. Fukuhara was, for a time in the early 2000s, one of the kids putting in...
Karen Fukuhara has had a particularly fine career, particularly in recent years. Setting aside credits in "Bullet Train" and Cartoon Network's much-beloved animated series "Craig of the Creek," Fukuhara has made a name for herself as fan-favorite Kimiko on Amazon Prime Video's violent superhero series "The Boys." Given that show's continued success, it seems more than likely we'll be seeing more from the actress in the years to come. But her start in the business wasn't actually as an actress. Rather, it was as a celebrity interviewer for the Disney Channel.
In an interview with Collider to promote "The Boys" season 4, Fukuhara dove into her past on Disney's "Movie Surfers" show. The series featured kids interviewing celebrities and highlighting upcoming movies for their audience. Fukuhara was, for a time in the early 2000s, one of the kids putting in...
- 10/20/2024
- by Ryan Scott
- Slash Film
Hayao Miyazaki, the director responsible for many of our favorite anime films, is a one-of-a-kind visionary in the industry. His Studio Ghibli movies are in a league of their own with works like Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle, and My Neighbour Totoro, dominating the anime film genre. More recently, he directed The Boy and The Heron, a work inspired by his own life and the process of grieving his mother. His career is filled with great moments with little left to explore.
Hayao Miyazaki. [Credit: Oscars YouTube channel]
Studio Ghibli was awarded an honorary Palme d’Or at the Grand Théâtre Lumière in May 2024. Hayao Miyazaki’s son, Goro Miyazaki, accepted the award on behalf of the studio as its creative development head and had a few words to say on the meaning behind winning this and the future of Studio Ghibli. He essentially expressed his father’s thoughts that winning this...
Hayao Miyazaki. [Credit: Oscars YouTube channel]
Studio Ghibli was awarded an honorary Palme d’Or at the Grand Théâtre Lumière in May 2024. Hayao Miyazaki’s son, Goro Miyazaki, accepted the award on behalf of the studio as its creative development head and had a few words to say on the meaning behind winning this and the future of Studio Ghibli. He essentially expressed his father’s thoughts that winning this...
- 10/19/2024
- by Bidisha Mitra
- FandomWire
Since the success of “Demon Slayer: Mugen Train,” which grossed nearly $50 million domestically in 2021, it’s been clear that anime will continue to be a major player at the specialty box office for years to come. Now, with Toho International’s acquisition of one of the medium’s top American distributors, Gkids, competition for the eyes and dollars of anime fans is about to step up.
It’s a natural fit for the two companies to be joining forces. Last December, Toho and GKids made box office history by pushing two Japanese-produced films into the top 3 at the U.S. box office on the same weekend. For Toho, it was “Godzilla Minus One,” the first ever film from cinema’s oldest franchise to win an Oscar, earning $56.4 million in America.
For GKids, it was Hayao Miyazaki’s likely final film — and also Oscar winner — “The Boy and the Heron,” which...
It’s a natural fit for the two companies to be joining forces. Last December, Toho and GKids made box office history by pushing two Japanese-produced films into the top 3 at the U.S. box office on the same weekend. For Toho, it was “Godzilla Minus One,” the first ever film from cinema’s oldest franchise to win an Oscar, earning $56.4 million in America.
For GKids, it was Hayao Miyazaki’s likely final film — and also Oscar winner — “The Boy and the Heron,” which...
- 10/18/2024
- by Drew Taylor, Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
Japanese entertainment giant Toho has reached an agreement to buy the Oscar-winning American animation distributor and producer GKids as part of its global expansion strategy.
New York and Los Angeles-based GKids will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Los Angeles-based Toho International, and GKids founder Eric Beckman and Dave Jesteadt will remain as CEO and president, respectively.
Financial terms of the 100% equity acquisition were not disclosed. The move accelerates the Japanese company’s Toho Vision 2032 Toho Group Management Corporate Strategy to expand operations beyond Japan and connect creators and productions with the international fan base.
It also builds on an existing relationship.
New York and Los Angeles-based GKids will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Los Angeles-based Toho International, and GKids founder Eric Beckman and Dave Jesteadt will remain as CEO and president, respectively.
Financial terms of the 100% equity acquisition were not disclosed. The move accelerates the Japanese company’s Toho Vision 2032 Toho Group Management Corporate Strategy to expand operations beyond Japan and connect creators and productions with the international fan base.
It also builds on an existing relationship.
- 10/16/2024
- ScreenDaily
Japanese entertainment giant Toho announced today that it has reached an agreement to acquire Gkids, the Academy Award-winning North American animation producer and distributor. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Gkids, which maintains offices in New York and Los Angeles, will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Los Angeles-based Toho International. Gkids Founder Eric Beckman will remain as CEO, and Dave Jesteadt will remain as President of the company.
Beckman and Jesteadt have run Gkids together since the company first released the Academy Award-nominated film The Secret of Kells as a two-person company in 2009. Together, they have grown Gkids into a powerful force in the U.S. animation scene, amassing an outstanding thirteen Best Animated Feature nominations at the Academy Awards and a win last year for Hayao Miyazaki’s The Boy and the Heron.
Toho’s acquisition of Gkids serves to further accelerate its “Toho Vision 2032 Toho Group Management Strategy,...
Gkids, which maintains offices in New York and Los Angeles, will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Los Angeles-based Toho International. Gkids Founder Eric Beckman will remain as CEO, and Dave Jesteadt will remain as President of the company.
Beckman and Jesteadt have run Gkids together since the company first released the Academy Award-nominated film The Secret of Kells as a two-person company in 2009. Together, they have grown Gkids into a powerful force in the U.S. animation scene, amassing an outstanding thirteen Best Animated Feature nominations at the Academy Awards and a win last year for Hayao Miyazaki’s The Boy and the Heron.
Toho’s acquisition of Gkids serves to further accelerate its “Toho Vision 2032 Toho Group Management Strategy,...
- 10/15/2024
- by Mirko Parlevliet
- Vital Thrills
Japanese media giant Toho is acquiring Gkids, the North American distributor of prestige animated films like the Oscar-winning The Boy and the Heron.
Gkids will continue to operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of the Los Angeles-based Toho International. Gkids Founder Eric Beckman will remain as CEO, and Dave Jesteadt will remain as President.
The two execs have run Gkids together since the company first released the Academy Award-nominated film The Secret of Kells as a two-person outfit in 2009. The company has gone on to rack up 13 Best Animated Feature nominations at the Academy Awards, winning the trophy last year for Hayao Miyazaki’s The Boy and the Heron.
The deal advances Toho’s goal to grow outside of Japan, and aims to connect its Japanese and international productions, creators, and studios more directly and widely with creators and fans overseas. Toho acquired Japanese animation studio Science Saru and also...
Gkids will continue to operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of the Los Angeles-based Toho International. Gkids Founder Eric Beckman will remain as CEO, and Dave Jesteadt will remain as President.
The two execs have run Gkids together since the company first released the Academy Award-nominated film The Secret of Kells as a two-person outfit in 2009. The company has gone on to rack up 13 Best Animated Feature nominations at the Academy Awards, winning the trophy last year for Hayao Miyazaki’s The Boy and the Heron.
The deal advances Toho’s goal to grow outside of Japan, and aims to connect its Japanese and international productions, creators, and studios more directly and widely with creators and fans overseas. Toho acquired Japanese animation studio Science Saru and also...
- 10/15/2024
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Gkids, the indie distributor notable for its animated film releases and many Studio Ghibli titles in North America, has been acquired by the iconic Japanese studio Toho.
The move gives Toho, which has released everything from Godzilla films to anime classics like “My Hero Academia,” a major expansion in North America and a distribution arm to extend their reach further.
Toho is picking up a 100 percent equity share in the company led by founder and CEO Eric Beckman and President Dave Jesteadt. They’ll keep those jobs. Gkids will be a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Los Angeles-based Toho International.
Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Gkids was founded in 2009 with the release of the Oscar-nominated “The Secret of Kells.” It was just a two-person company at the time. Since then, 13 different films Gkids released in North America have been nominated for Best Animated Feature, including last year’s...
The move gives Toho, which has released everything from Godzilla films to anime classics like “My Hero Academia,” a major expansion in North America and a distribution arm to extend their reach further.
Toho is picking up a 100 percent equity share in the company led by founder and CEO Eric Beckman and President Dave Jesteadt. They’ll keep those jobs. Gkids will be a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Los Angeles-based Toho International.
Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Gkids was founded in 2009 with the release of the Oscar-nominated “The Secret of Kells.” It was just a two-person company at the time. Since then, 13 different films Gkids released in North America have been nominated for Best Animated Feature, including last year’s...
- 10/15/2024
- by Brian Welk
- Indiewire
Japanese media giant Toho Co. — the studio behind that country’s famous Godzilla movie monster — has unveiled a deal to acquire Gkids, the North American indie producer and distributor.
Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed, but Gkids, launched in 2008 with a focus on animated movies, is set to operate as a subsidiary of Toho under company founder/CEO Eric Beckman and president Dave Jesteadt.
“Through their hard work, vision, and integrity, Gkids has built a unique position in the U.S. market, which dovetails perfectly with Toho’s own strengths and strategic mission. This partnership accelerates Toho’s goals to prioritize animation, develop international markets, and support IP creation, while bringing exceptional Japanese and animated content to global audiences,” Toho President and CEO Hiro Matsuoka said in a statement on Tuesday.
Beckman and Jesteadt have run Gkids together since the company released the Oscar-nominated film The Secret of Kells...
Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed, but Gkids, launched in 2008 with a focus on animated movies, is set to operate as a subsidiary of Toho under company founder/CEO Eric Beckman and president Dave Jesteadt.
“Through their hard work, vision, and integrity, Gkids has built a unique position in the U.S. market, which dovetails perfectly with Toho’s own strengths and strategic mission. This partnership accelerates Toho’s goals to prioritize animation, develop international markets, and support IP creation, while bringing exceptional Japanese and animated content to global audiences,” Toho President and CEO Hiro Matsuoka said in a statement on Tuesday.
Beckman and Jesteadt have run Gkids together since the company released the Oscar-nominated film The Secret of Kells...
- 10/15/2024
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Animation distributor Gkids has been acquired by Japan’s Toho.
Gkids will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Los Angeles-based Toho International. Founder Eric Beckman will remain as CEO of Gkids, and Dave Jesteadt will remain as president.
Beckman and Jesteadt have run the company since 2009, when they released “The Secret of Kells.” Since then, they have grown Gkids and amassed over 13 best animated feature nominations at the Academy Awards, including this year’s winner, Hayao Miyazaki’s “The Boy and the Heron.”
Toho President and CEO Hiro Matsuoka said, “Through their hard work, vision, and integrity, Gkids has built a unique position in the U.S. market, which dovetails perfectly with Toho’s own strengths and strategic mission. This partnership accelerates Toho’s goals to prioritize animation, develop international markets, and support IP creation, while bringing exceptional Japanese and animated content to global audiences. We are honored to be working together with Eric,...
Gkids will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Los Angeles-based Toho International. Founder Eric Beckman will remain as CEO of Gkids, and Dave Jesteadt will remain as president.
Beckman and Jesteadt have run the company since 2009, when they released “The Secret of Kells.” Since then, they have grown Gkids and amassed over 13 best animated feature nominations at the Academy Awards, including this year’s winner, Hayao Miyazaki’s “The Boy and the Heron.”
Toho President and CEO Hiro Matsuoka said, “Through their hard work, vision, and integrity, Gkids has built a unique position in the U.S. market, which dovetails perfectly with Toho’s own strengths and strategic mission. This partnership accelerates Toho’s goals to prioritize animation, develop international markets, and support IP creation, while bringing exceptional Japanese and animated content to global audiences. We are honored to be working together with Eric,...
- 10/15/2024
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
Japanese entertainment giant Toho Co., Ltd., which was founded in 1932 and is most famous for the “Godzilla” films, has reached an agreement to acquire a 100% equity share of GKids, Inc., the Oscar-winning North American animation producer and distributor. Financial terms were not disclosed.
GKids will become a wholly owned subsidiary of the Los Angeles-based Toho International. GKids founder Eric Beckman will remain as CEO and Dave Jesteadt will remain president of the company.
The two have run the company together since 2009, then they released “The Secret of Kells” from Irish animation studio Cartoon Saloon. Together, they have turned GKids into a lowkey powerhouse, consistently releasing animated features from around the world and earning thirteen Best Animated Feature Oscar nominations. Last year they finally won for Hayao Miyazaki’s masterpiece “The Boy and the Heron” which was, beyond being a critical hit, was a sleeper smash, making over $46 million domestically.
The...
GKids will become a wholly owned subsidiary of the Los Angeles-based Toho International. GKids founder Eric Beckman will remain as CEO and Dave Jesteadt will remain president of the company.
The two have run the company together since 2009, then they released “The Secret of Kells” from Irish animation studio Cartoon Saloon. Together, they have turned GKids into a lowkey powerhouse, consistently releasing animated features from around the world and earning thirteen Best Animated Feature Oscar nominations. Last year they finally won for Hayao Miyazaki’s masterpiece “The Boy and the Heron” which was, beyond being a critical hit, was a sleeper smash, making over $46 million domestically.
The...
- 10/15/2024
- by Drew Taylor
- The Wrap
Hayao Miyazaki might as well be called a legend in the animation field, and rightly so – after all, he has given fans even Oscar-winning pieces like The Boy and the Heron through his Studio Ghibli. His works have been so iconic that the visionary might as well have inspired many artists worldwide. And yet, when it comes to his own self, very few things manage to inspire Miyazaki.
Hayao Miyazaki. | Credits: 大臣官房人事課/Cca-4.0/Wikimedia Commons.
As much of an incredibly creative artist as he is, the Japanese animator is also a staunch critic of many things. To say the least, a lot of the pieces Hollywood fans would consider masterpieces have faced the wrath of the manga artist. This included Apocalypse Now, Francis Ford Coppola’s best film after The Godfather, which Miyazaki unhesitantly revealed he felt was pointless.
Hayao Miyazaki Has Harsh Criticism for Apocalypse Now
Released in 1979, Apocalypse Now...
Hayao Miyazaki. | Credits: 大臣官房人事課/Cca-4.0/Wikimedia Commons.
As much of an incredibly creative artist as he is, the Japanese animator is also a staunch critic of many things. To say the least, a lot of the pieces Hollywood fans would consider masterpieces have faced the wrath of the manga artist. This included Apocalypse Now, Francis Ford Coppola’s best film after The Godfather, which Miyazaki unhesitantly revealed he felt was pointless.
Hayao Miyazaki Has Harsh Criticism for Apocalypse Now
Released in 1979, Apocalypse Now...
- 10/15/2024
- by Mahin Sultan
- FandomWire
Anime has shed its image as a niche cultural phenomenon with a cult following and has evolved into a global sensation.
Naturally, this shift will be reflected by its ever growing fandom.
According to Crunchyroll CEO Rahul Purini, the worldwide anime fanbase is expected to reach one billion in the coming years.
He made this prediction in an interview with Nikkei XTrend, noting the tremendous growth in anime’s popularity around the globe.
Related:
Crunchyroll President & COO Discuss Future Of Anime In The Age Of TikTok & Short-Form Content
The Crunchyroll president had previously mentioned in an interview with Verge this year that the total number of anime fans outside Japan and China came close to around 800 million.
Talking about the popularity of anime, Purini highlighted that in early 2024, a U.S. study revealed that 42% of Gen Z in America watch anime on a weekly basis, showing the younger generation’s passion for the genre.
Naturally, this shift will be reflected by its ever growing fandom.
According to Crunchyroll CEO Rahul Purini, the worldwide anime fanbase is expected to reach one billion in the coming years.
He made this prediction in an interview with Nikkei XTrend, noting the tremendous growth in anime’s popularity around the globe.
Related:
Crunchyroll President & COO Discuss Future Of Anime In The Age Of TikTok & Short-Form Content
The Crunchyroll president had previously mentioned in an interview with Verge this year that the total number of anime fans outside Japan and China came close to around 800 million.
Talking about the popularity of anime, Purini highlighted that in early 2024, a U.S. study revealed that 42% of Gen Z in America watch anime on a weekly basis, showing the younger generation’s passion for the genre.
- 10/15/2024
- by A.R. Madillo
- AnimeHunch
While it’s easy to get stuck in the muck of “Joker: Folie à Deux’s” underperformance or the continuation of Lionsgate’s losing streak, there was a bright spot at this week’s box office that marked a historic first — five of the Top 10 movies were animated features.
The animated movies that made the Top 10 are so varied, too, which speaks to the fact that animation as a medium is just as versatile and bespoke as live-action filmmaking. These films also came from a variety of studios, showcasing how important animated features are to every company’s bottom line. At one point, the marketplace was dominated by a handful of players. Not anymore.
The movies were DreamWorks’ painterly adventure “The Wild Robot” (No. 2); Focus Features’ animated music documentary “Piece by Piece” (No. 5); Paramount’s sci-fi spectacle “Transformers One” (No. 6); Crunchyroll and Sony’s domestic release of Japanese anime “My Hero Academia: You’re Next” (No.
The animated movies that made the Top 10 are so varied, too, which speaks to the fact that animation as a medium is just as versatile and bespoke as live-action filmmaking. These films also came from a variety of studios, showcasing how important animated features are to every company’s bottom line. At one point, the marketplace was dominated by a handful of players. Not anymore.
The movies were DreamWorks’ painterly adventure “The Wild Robot” (No. 2); Focus Features’ animated music documentary “Piece by Piece” (No. 5); Paramount’s sci-fi spectacle “Transformers One” (No. 6); Crunchyroll and Sony’s domestic release of Japanese anime “My Hero Academia: You’re Next” (No.
- 10/14/2024
- by Drew Taylor
- The Wrap
Where there is rivalry, there is bound to be sportsmanship as well. This extends to the anime industry as well. Of all the mecha anime, Gundam is a cult-popular series in most aspects. From its robots to profound storytelling, the series holds relevance to this date. What’s more interesting is the creator’s approach to the rivalry.
Kou Uraki in a still from the series | Credit: Nippon Sunrise
Yoshiyuki Tomino has a unique take on rivalry and competition. Despite deeming Hayao Miyazaki as his enemy, he reveres him. This is clear in his defense of the Ghibli founder in an interview. This statement reflects the sportsmanship and healthy competition among the artists.
Gundam creator’s rivalry with Hayao Miyazaki
Gundam is one of the finest and most revolutionary mecha series created by Yoshiyuki Tomino. From its robot designs to its anti-war stance, the series is truly avant-garde. Like its predecessors,...
Kou Uraki in a still from the series | Credit: Nippon Sunrise
Yoshiyuki Tomino has a unique take on rivalry and competition. Despite deeming Hayao Miyazaki as his enemy, he reveres him. This is clear in his defense of the Ghibli founder in an interview. This statement reflects the sportsmanship and healthy competition among the artists.
Gundam creator’s rivalry with Hayao Miyazaki
Gundam is one of the finest and most revolutionary mecha series created by Yoshiyuki Tomino. From its robot designs to its anti-war stance, the series is truly avant-garde. Like its predecessors,...
- 10/13/2024
- by Himanshi Jeswani
- FandomWire
Yoshiyuki Tomino, the creator of the famous Gundam series, has always stuck to his craft. Gundam has been the greatest in the mecha genre of anime, with very few rivals. He is a mastermind in his own right and many fans are grateful to him for creating Gundam. However, despite his long and celebrated career, he has his own doubts about his artistic abilities. Tomino’s decision to remain loyal to Sunrise, the studio where Gundam was created, is due to his insecurity about not being on equal grounds with other artists in the anime industry.
Space Runaway Ideon. [Credit: Nippon Sunrise]
The creator becomes vulnerable about his journey in the anime industry and reveals why he has never left Sunrise, despite being one of its biggest icons. He doesn’t mince his words around his thoughts about the industry and his rivals, particularly about Hayao Miyazaki. He also discusses the philosophical aspects of Gundam.
Space Runaway Ideon. [Credit: Nippon Sunrise]
The creator becomes vulnerable about his journey in the anime industry and reveals why he has never left Sunrise, despite being one of its biggest icons. He doesn’t mince his words around his thoughts about the industry and his rivals, particularly about Hayao Miyazaki. He also discusses the philosophical aspects of Gundam.
- 10/13/2024
- by Bidisha Mitra
- FandomWire
In the 23 years since the Best Animated Feature category was introduced at the Oscars, Pixar has dominated, racking up an impressive 11 wins from 18 nominations; its last victory was in 2021 for “Soul.” Walt Disney Studios has four trophies to show for its lucky 13 nominations while DreamWorks has gone 2 for 14, including the first-ever Oscar awarded for Best Animated Feature, which went to “Shrek.” Studio Ghibli also has a pair of prizes, and is the reigning champ with “The Boy and the Heron.” (Scroll down for the most up-to-date 2025 Oscar predictions for Best Animated Feature.)
That marked the second win for Japanese auteur Hayao Miyazaki, who had prevailed for “Spirited Away” 22 years earlier. Miyazaki crafted the only two hand-drawn movies to win this race. Two stop-motion flicks — “Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit” and “Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio” — have prevailed. The other 19 winners were all done with CGI.
Updated: October 10, 2024
Leading...
That marked the second win for Japanese auteur Hayao Miyazaki, who had prevailed for “Spirited Away” 22 years earlier. Miyazaki crafted the only two hand-drawn movies to win this race. Two stop-motion flicks — “Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit” and “Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio” — have prevailed. The other 19 winners were all done with CGI.
Updated: October 10, 2024
Leading...
- 10/10/2024
- by Paul Sheehan
- Gold Derby
Fans are interested in checking out a new anime film, Look Back, but many are unsure where it is available.
Based on Tatsuki Fujimoto's (who also created the Chainsaw Man manga) manga of the same name, Look Back explores the bond between two girls who go from being opposites to becoming extremely close due to their shared love of drawing.
Gkids, a company that often distributes international animated projects, is distributing the film in the United States. For instance, Gkids has handled the United States releases of many Studio Ghibli films (like Grave of the Fireflies and The Boy and the Heron).
Read full article on The Direct.
Based on Tatsuki Fujimoto's (who also created the Chainsaw Man manga) manga of the same name, Look Back explores the bond between two girls who go from being opposites to becoming extremely close due to their shared love of drawing.
Gkids, a company that often distributes international animated projects, is distributing the film in the United States. For instance, Gkids has handled the United States releases of many Studio Ghibli films (like Grave of the Fireflies and The Boy and the Heron).
Read full article on The Direct.
- 10/8/2024
- by Nathan Johnson
- The Direct
What would Studio Ghibli’s beautiful animated eco fable Princess Mononoke look like if it were remade using AI? An awful, smelly trailer has the answer.
As Nikola Tesla once said, at least according to a quote attributed to the famous inventor, “You may live to see man-made horrors beyond your comprehension.”
On a related note, along comes a an AI-generated “shot-for-shot remake” of animator Hayao Miyazaki’s 1997 classic, Princess Mononoke.
The trailer’s the work of Portland, Oregon-based self-facilitating media node Pj Acetturo, who used a combination of generative AI services to pull together a collection of CGI shots that roughly line up in terms of timing and subject to Princess Mononoke's original promo.
We’ve embedded one of the creator’s tweets below, which handily shows both his trailer and the original side by side.
The Mononoke trailer is a shot-for-shot remake of the trailer. This film...
As Nikola Tesla once said, at least according to a quote attributed to the famous inventor, “You may live to see man-made horrors beyond your comprehension.”
On a related note, along comes a an AI-generated “shot-for-shot remake” of animator Hayao Miyazaki’s 1997 classic, Princess Mononoke.
The trailer’s the work of Portland, Oregon-based self-facilitating media node Pj Acetturo, who used a combination of generative AI services to pull together a collection of CGI shots that roughly line up in terms of timing and subject to Princess Mononoke's original promo.
We’ve embedded one of the creator’s tweets below, which handily shows both his trailer and the original side by side.
The Mononoke trailer is a shot-for-shot remake of the trailer. This film...
- 10/4/2024
- by Ryan Lambie
- Film Stories
mm2 Entertainment, a major cinema operator in Southeast Asia, has signed a five-year agreement to distribute 21 films from legendary Japanese animation studio Studio Ghibli across seven countries. Some of Ghibli’s most celebrated works, including Academy Award-winner Spirited Away and fan favorites Howl’s Moving Castle and My Neighbor Totoro, will be re-released in theaters in Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, and Cambodia starting later this year.
The partnership allows mm2 Entertainment to bring beloved Ghibli classics back to the big screen for audiences to enjoy as the films were intended. With operations in Singapore and Malaysia, mm2 is well-positioned to distribute the films throughout Southeast Asia. This gives longtime fans a chance to revisit cherished titles and introduces new viewers to Ghibli’s magical worlds.
Studio Ghibli is known worldwide for emotionally resonant stories and artistic animated films directed by masters like Hayao Miyazaki. The studio recently received...
The partnership allows mm2 Entertainment to bring beloved Ghibli classics back to the big screen for audiences to enjoy as the films were intended. With operations in Singapore and Malaysia, mm2 is well-positioned to distribute the films throughout Southeast Asia. This gives longtime fans a chance to revisit cherished titles and introduces new viewers to Ghibli’s magical worlds.
Studio Ghibli is known worldwide for emotionally resonant stories and artistic animated films directed by masters like Hayao Miyazaki. The studio recently received...
- 10/3/2024
- by Naser Nahandian
- Gazettely
Asian media and entertainment company mm2 Entertainment has secured a five-year distribution partnership with Miyazaki Hayao’s Studio Ghibli, bringing the renowned Japanese animation studio’s acclaimed films back to Southeast Asian theatrical audiences.
The deal encompasses 21 Studio Ghibli titles, including Miyazaki’s “Spirited Away,” “Howl’s Moving Castle,” and “My Neighbour Totoro.” mm2 will rerelease the beloved films across Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines and Cambodia.
Parent company mm2 Asia operates cinema chains in Singapore and Malaysia, providing direct access to moviegoers. The first Studio Ghibli releases under this agreement are slated for later this year.
Studio Ghibli recently received the honorary Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival. Additionally, “The World of Studio Ghibli” exhibition is set to launch at Singapore’s ArtScience Museum.
The Southeast Asia releases come after Studio Ghibli scored belated first time releases in China to considerable box office success. “My Neighbor Totoro...
The deal encompasses 21 Studio Ghibli titles, including Miyazaki’s “Spirited Away,” “Howl’s Moving Castle,” and “My Neighbour Totoro.” mm2 will rerelease the beloved films across Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines and Cambodia.
Parent company mm2 Asia operates cinema chains in Singapore and Malaysia, providing direct access to moviegoers. The first Studio Ghibli releases under this agreement are slated for later this year.
Studio Ghibli recently received the honorary Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival. Additionally, “The World of Studio Ghibli” exhibition is set to launch at Singapore’s ArtScience Museum.
The Southeast Asia releases come after Studio Ghibli scored belated first time releases in China to considerable box office success. “My Neighbor Totoro...
- 10/3/2024
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Japan’s Studio Ghibli is partnering with Singapore-based mm2 Entertainment to rerelease Hayao Miyazaki’s beloved anime classics in cinemas across Southeast Asia over the next five years.
The distribution deal, unveiled by the two companies Thursday, will see mm2 release 21 of Ghibli’s iconic films, including fan favorites like Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle and My Neighbor Totoro, across seven territories: Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, and Cambodia.
The plan continues Ghibli’s highly lucrative leveraging of its library in recent years. Undertaking a similar strategy in mainland China, the company has earned tens of millions by making Miyazaki’s work available to a new generation of Chinese moviegoers. The maestro’s My Neighbor Totoro earned $26 million from a China rerelease in 2018, followed by Spirited Away with $69 million in 2019. Other titles have followed.
Mm2 said the first titles in the Studio Ghibli library will be given the rerelease...
The distribution deal, unveiled by the two companies Thursday, will see mm2 release 21 of Ghibli’s iconic films, including fan favorites like Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle and My Neighbor Totoro, across seven territories: Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, and Cambodia.
The plan continues Ghibli’s highly lucrative leveraging of its library in recent years. Undertaking a similar strategy in mainland China, the company has earned tens of millions by making Miyazaki’s work available to a new generation of Chinese moviegoers. The maestro’s My Neighbor Totoro earned $26 million from a China rerelease in 2018, followed by Spirited Away with $69 million in 2019. Other titles have followed.
Mm2 said the first titles in the Studio Ghibli library will be given the rerelease...
- 10/3/2024
- by Patrick Brzeski
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Are you prepared for an action-packed week featuring an array of new movies to stream across various Ott platforms? Dive into a weekend of cinematic delights with our handpicked selection of the hottest movie releases. This list is curated with movie recommendations for those of you who only want to watch the best out of the new movies that pop up on streaming. The list may also come in handy for you to stay updated with current releases on subscription-based Ott platforms and help you pick the best based on your taste and appetite.
The Best New Movies To Stream on Max 1. The Boy and the Heron (2023)
Where to Stream: Max | Dir: Hayao Miyazaki
The Boy and the Heron, the long-awaited film by legendary director Hayao Miyazaki, is now a top pick for new movies to stream online. This Japanese animated feature marks Miyazaki’s return to filmmaking, though he...
The Best New Movies To Stream on Max 1. The Boy and the Heron (2023)
Where to Stream: Max | Dir: Hayao Miyazaki
The Boy and the Heron, the long-awaited film by legendary director Hayao Miyazaki, is now a top pick for new movies to stream online. This Japanese animated feature marks Miyazaki’s return to filmmaking, though he...
- 10/1/2024
- by Deepshikha Deb
- High on Films
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In a year that has provided its fair share of disappointments at the box office, it's always nice when we get to talk about something good that happened -- if not something downright great, in this particular case. Indeed, DreamWorks and Universal's "The Wild Robot" debuted in theaters this past weekend, taking in $35 million at the domestic box office. That blew past industry expectations, in no small part thanks to the stellar reviews and word of mouth. It also set a new high-bar for non-franchise animation in the pandemic era.
That $35 million figure represents the very top end of the most optimistic projections heading into the weekend. "The Wild Robot" also pulled in $18 million overseas for a $53 million global start. To say that it is difficult to open a non-franchise animated film in the pandemic era would be an understatement.
In a year that has provided its fair share of disappointments at the box office, it's always nice when we get to talk about something good that happened -- if not something downright great, in this particular case. Indeed, DreamWorks and Universal's "The Wild Robot" debuted in theaters this past weekend, taking in $35 million at the domestic box office. That blew past industry expectations, in no small part thanks to the stellar reviews and word of mouth. It also set a new high-bar for non-franchise animation in the pandemic era.
That $35 million figure represents the very top end of the most optimistic projections heading into the weekend. "The Wild Robot" also pulled in $18 million overseas for a $53 million global start. To say that it is difficult to open a non-franchise animated film in the pandemic era would be an understatement.
- 9/30/2024
- by Ryan Scott
- Slash Film
Before the initial release of “Howl’s Moving Castle” 20 years ago, Akihiko Yamashita spent nearly two years working as the supervising animator on the Studio Ghibli film.
“I really have no idea how many pages of drawings there were or how many cels we drew. I just know that we worked a huge amount and we drew a huge amount,” Yamashita tells Variety through an interpreter. “Nowadays, we talk about work-life balance, but in those days, there was no concept of that.”
Yamashita first worked with animation maestro Hayao Miyazaki as a key animator on 2001’s “Spirited Away.” Over the past 20-plus years, he has served various roles on Studio Ghibli films, including as an assistant supervising animator on “Ponyo” (2008) and a key animator on “The Wind Rises” (2013) and “The Boy and the Heron” (2023).
Yamashita recalls working 14 hours a day on “Howl’s Moving Castle” during the last six months of production,...
“I really have no idea how many pages of drawings there were or how many cels we drew. I just know that we worked a huge amount and we drew a huge amount,” Yamashita tells Variety through an interpreter. “Nowadays, we talk about work-life balance, but in those days, there was no concept of that.”
Yamashita first worked with animation maestro Hayao Miyazaki as a key animator on 2001’s “Spirited Away.” Over the past 20-plus years, he has served various roles on Studio Ghibli films, including as an assistant supervising animator on “Ponyo” (2008) and a key animator on “The Wind Rises” (2013) and “The Boy and the Heron” (2023).
Yamashita recalls working 14 hours a day on “Howl’s Moving Castle” during the last six months of production,...
- 9/28/2024
- by Michaela Zee
- Variety Film + TV
The Oscar race for Best Animated Feature heats up with the theatrical release of “The Wild Robot,” in which the title character (voiced by Lupita Nyong’o) is shipwrecked on an island and develops relationships with the local animals. Directed by Chris Sanders, the film opened on September 27 from Universal Pictures.
SEEBox office preview: DreamWorks’ ‘The Wild Robot’ takes on Coppola’s ‘Megalopolis’ and others
As of this writing the film has a sky-high MetaCritic score of 86 based on 30 reviews counted so far — all of them positive. Over on Rotten Tomatoes, where reviews are considered simply positive or negative, the film is generating just as much goodwill, rated 98% fresh based on 102 reviews, only two of which give the film a thumbs down. The Rt critics consensus says, “A simple tale told with great sophistication, ‘The Wild Robot’ is wondrous entertainment that dazzles the eye while filling your heart to the brim.
SEEBox office preview: DreamWorks’ ‘The Wild Robot’ takes on Coppola’s ‘Megalopolis’ and others
As of this writing the film has a sky-high MetaCritic score of 86 based on 30 reviews counted so far — all of them positive. Over on Rotten Tomatoes, where reviews are considered simply positive or negative, the film is generating just as much goodwill, rated 98% fresh based on 102 reviews, only two of which give the film a thumbs down. The Rt critics consensus says, “A simple tale told with great sophistication, ‘The Wild Robot’ is wondrous entertainment that dazzles the eye while filling your heart to the brim.
- 9/27/2024
- by Daniel Montgomery
- Gold Derby
Italy’s Lucky Red is to be honoured with the best international innovation distribution award 2024 at the third International Film Distribution Summit, which takes place October 15-17 in Cologne, Germany.
Headed by Andrea Occhipinti, independent distributor Lucky Red’s activities also span exhibition, production, sales and streaming.
It runs the Circuito Cinema, a cinema chain with 40 cinemas and 126 screens, including several theatres in Rome, Florence and Bologna.
Sales outfit True Colors’ was launched in 2015 by Lucky Red, and Indigo Film as a global distributor for Italian films. Digital arthouse cinema platform MioCinema was created in 2020.
Recent Lucky Red releases include The Boy And The Heron,...
Headed by Andrea Occhipinti, independent distributor Lucky Red’s activities also span exhibition, production, sales and streaming.
It runs the Circuito Cinema, a cinema chain with 40 cinemas and 126 screens, including several theatres in Rome, Florence and Bologna.
Sales outfit True Colors’ was launched in 2015 by Lucky Red, and Indigo Film as a global distributor for Italian films. Digital arthouse cinema platform MioCinema was created in 2020.
Recent Lucky Red releases include The Boy And The Heron,...
- 9/27/2024
- ScreenDaily
Im Rahmen des dritten International Film Distribution Summit wird das italienische Verleih- und Produktionshaus Lucky Red, das auch eine Kinokette betreibt, mit dem Best International Innovation Distribution Award ausgezeichnet.
Andrea Occhipinti von Lucky Red (Credit: Imago/Depositphotos)
„Wegweisende Innovationskraft“ sei es, für die das von Andrea Occhipinti geführte italienische Verleihunternehmen Lucky Red, das auch als Produktionshaus und Kinobetreiber fungiert, beim diesjährigen International Film Distribution Summit mit dem Best International Innovation Distribution Award gewürdigt wird. Zur Begründung für die Auszeichnung des Unternehmens, das seit seiner Gründung im Jahr 1987 die italienische Film- und Kinolandschaft mit originären Strategien maßgeblich mitgestaltet habe, heißt es seitens der Veranstalter des Ifds:
„Mit dem Kino im Herzen bringt Lucky Red das Beste des internationalen Independent-Kinos nach Italien und zählt zu den am meisten geschätzten Kinounternehmen. Im Lauf der Zeit hat es seine Vision erweitert und heute ist Lucky Red ein hochwertiges, integriertes und flexibles internationales Kinozentrum mit...
Andrea Occhipinti von Lucky Red (Credit: Imago/Depositphotos)
„Wegweisende Innovationskraft“ sei es, für die das von Andrea Occhipinti geführte italienische Verleihunternehmen Lucky Red, das auch als Produktionshaus und Kinobetreiber fungiert, beim diesjährigen International Film Distribution Summit mit dem Best International Innovation Distribution Award gewürdigt wird. Zur Begründung für die Auszeichnung des Unternehmens, das seit seiner Gründung im Jahr 1987 die italienische Film- und Kinolandschaft mit originären Strategien maßgeblich mitgestaltet habe, heißt es seitens der Veranstalter des Ifds:
„Mit dem Kino im Herzen bringt Lucky Red das Beste des internationalen Independent-Kinos nach Italien und zählt zu den am meisten geschätzten Kinounternehmen. Im Lauf der Zeit hat es seine Vision erweitert und heute ist Lucky Red ein hochwertiges, integriertes und flexibles internationales Kinozentrum mit...
- 9/26/2024
- by Marc Mensch
- Spot - Media & Film
Today’s day and age is seeing some of the most artistic mangakas like Gege Akutami and Takeru Hokazono. The rising age of manga sees unique designs that may compare to those who came before them but also mark an entirely new era of what is to come. Whether it was with regard to Kentaro Miura’s detailed art to Takehiko Inoue’s realism, manga offers it all.
Toji Fushiguro | Credit: Mappa
In the same spectrum comes the world of anime and animation. These artists and their creativity are brought to life by the hands of some of the most talented people within the industry. As the world of anime continues to expand, so will the possibilities that come with it. Hayao Miyazaki is the beacon of a lot of that hope.
Hayao Miyazaki is the Benchmark
2024 marks a big year for anyone who was a fan of anime and manga.
Toji Fushiguro | Credit: Mappa
In the same spectrum comes the world of anime and animation. These artists and their creativity are brought to life by the hands of some of the most talented people within the industry. As the world of anime continues to expand, so will the possibilities that come with it. Hayao Miyazaki is the beacon of a lot of that hope.
Hayao Miyazaki is the Benchmark
2024 marks a big year for anyone who was a fan of anime and manga.
- 9/23/2024
- by Adya Godboley
- FandomWire
Hayao Miyazaki is one of the most renowned storytellers of this generation, establishing Studio Ghibli, which is the hub to some of the greatest titles like Princess Mononoke, Spirited Away, The Boy and the Heron, and so many more. Each project would not only showcase his creative genius but also move one into tears while appreciating the beauty of the film.
A still from The Boy and the Heron. Credits: Studio Ghibli
However, each one of his works would feature an important message that would make the audience ponder the complex themes featured in a respective film. While fans appreciate Miyazaki-Sensei’s storytelling skills, the animation studio’s ability to create jaw-dropping scenery will leave the fans awestruck.
One such film is My Neighbor Totoro, which happens to be a beautiful blend of narration and bewitching scenery. Interestingly, the storyteller detests the country for its past, but at the same...
A still from The Boy and the Heron. Credits: Studio Ghibli
However, each one of his works would feature an important message that would make the audience ponder the complex themes featured in a respective film. While fans appreciate Miyazaki-Sensei’s storytelling skills, the animation studio’s ability to create jaw-dropping scenery will leave the fans awestruck.
One such film is My Neighbor Totoro, which happens to be a beautiful blend of narration and bewitching scenery. Interestingly, the storyteller detests the country for its past, but at the same...
- 9/20/2024
- by Tushar Auddy
- FandomWire
Florence Pugh is currently one of Hollywood’s most in-demand young actresses, consistently landing major roles with no signs of slowing down. In the past two years, she has starred in several blockbusters.
In Oppenheimer (2023), she portrayed Jean Tatlock, and lent her voice to the character Kiriko in the English dub of The Boy and the Heron (2023). She takes on the role of Princess Irulan in Dune: Part Two (2024). Her latest film is We Live in Time, with the MCU’s Thunderbolts set for release next year, where she will reprise her role as Yelena Belova.
Understandably exhausted, the actress recently revealed to British Vogue that, for the first time in her career, she had to take a break from acting.
For the first time ever in my career when I’ve actually asked for a summer break. I’m an absolute work maniac, [but] I can see I’m exhausted.
In Oppenheimer (2023), she portrayed Jean Tatlock, and lent her voice to the character Kiriko in the English dub of The Boy and the Heron (2023). She takes on the role of Princess Irulan in Dune: Part Two (2024). Her latest film is We Live in Time, with the MCU’s Thunderbolts set for release next year, where she will reprise her role as Yelena Belova.
Understandably exhausted, the actress recently revealed to British Vogue that, for the first time in her career, she had to take a break from acting.
For the first time ever in my career when I’ve actually asked for a summer break. I’m an absolute work maniac, [but] I can see I’m exhausted.
- 9/20/2024
- by Valentina Kraljik
- Fiction Horizon
Florence Pugh is currently one of the most popular young actresses in Hollywood. She keeps lining up big roles with no end or stopping in sight. The actress appeared in several blockbusters in the last two years In ‘Oppenheimer’ (2023), she portrayed Jean Tatlock.
She provided the voice for the character Kiriko in the English dub of ‘The Boy and the Heron’ (2023). In ‘Dune: Part Two’ (2024), she portrayed Princess Irulan. Her latest release is ‘We Live In Time,’ with MCU’s ‘Thunderbolts*’ yet to be released next year where she will reprise her role as Yelena Belova.
Naturally, the actress is exhausted and she recently opened up to British Vogue explaining that for the first time ever she was forced to take a break from acting:
For the first time ever in my career when I’ve actually asked for a summer break. I’m an absolute work maniac, [but] I can see I’m exhausted.
She provided the voice for the character Kiriko in the English dub of ‘The Boy and the Heron’ (2023). In ‘Dune: Part Two’ (2024), she portrayed Princess Irulan. Her latest release is ‘We Live In Time,’ with MCU’s ‘Thunderbolts*’ yet to be released next year where she will reprise her role as Yelena Belova.
Naturally, the actress is exhausted and she recently opened up to British Vogue explaining that for the first time ever she was forced to take a break from acting:
For the first time ever in my career when I’ve actually asked for a summer break. I’m an absolute work maniac, [but] I can see I’m exhausted.
- 9/20/2024
- by Valentina Kraljik
- Comic Basics
In terms of stars — Cate Blanchett, Johnny Depp, Javier Bardem, Tilda Swinton, Pamela Anderson — and auteur power — Pedro Almodóvar, Sean Baker, Costa Gavras, Edward Berger, Mike Leigh, Kiyoshi Kurosawa, Joshua Oppenheimer, François Ozon, Lupita Nyong’o, Mohammad Rasoulof, Walter Salles, Maite Alberdi — this year’s San Sebastián Festival promises one of its biggest editions ever.
Yet it’s the Spanish festival’s wealth of new talent and rising names in its industry competitions sets it apart. Here are 10 things to expect from the fest, which runs Sept. 20-28 at the stunning Basque seaside resort:
Blanchett, Almodóvar, Bardem, Depp, Swinton, Anderson
Blanchett, Almodóvar and Bardem will collect career achievement Donostia Awards, with Blanchett talking up Guy Maddin’s Cannes hit “Rumours,” set for U.S. theatrical release via Bleecker Street on Oct. 18; Almodóvar and Swinton will present Venice success “The Room Next Door.” Depp will unveil “Modi,” his second film as a...
Yet it’s the Spanish festival’s wealth of new talent and rising names in its industry competitions sets it apart. Here are 10 things to expect from the fest, which runs Sept. 20-28 at the stunning Basque seaside resort:
Blanchett, Almodóvar, Bardem, Depp, Swinton, Anderson
Blanchett, Almodóvar and Bardem will collect career achievement Donostia Awards, with Blanchett talking up Guy Maddin’s Cannes hit “Rumours,” set for U.S. theatrical release via Bleecker Street on Oct. 18; Almodóvar and Swinton will present Venice success “The Room Next Door.” Depp will unveil “Modi,” his second film as a...
- 9/20/2024
- by John Hopewell
- Variety Film + TV
The beauty of Hayao Miyazaki’s works is that Studio Ghibli and his animation style provides a sense of tranquility. Whether it is Spirited Away or My Neighbour Totoro, not only is there ample range, but there exists something for everyone. The beauty that is consistent in Miyazaki’s works is derived from the dedication and importance of quality.
San, popularly known as Princess Mononoke | Credits: Studio Ghibli
On multiple occasions, the animation has stated that knowing one’s audience is a bigger task than most. Not acting like they are dumb and giving them the benefit of the doubt is what helps his movies shine in the first place. The effort that is put into the making of each and every panel adds to the beauty of the movies.
The Essense of Studio Ghibli’s Works
Even those who are heroes to others have their own people they look up to.
San, popularly known as Princess Mononoke | Credits: Studio Ghibli
On multiple occasions, the animation has stated that knowing one’s audience is a bigger task than most. Not acting like they are dumb and giving them the benefit of the doubt is what helps his movies shine in the first place. The effort that is put into the making of each and every panel adds to the beauty of the movies.
The Essense of Studio Ghibli’s Works
Even those who are heroes to others have their own people they look up to.
- 9/19/2024
- by Adya Godboley
- FandomWire
Anime’s worldwide success wasn’t something that happened overnight. It was a gradual success in which Hayao Miyazaki had a big hand. What the world of anime is now is leaps and bounds ahead of what it was decades ago. Even as such, there were some works that were simply creating a foundation for others to grow.
Spirited Away | Credit: Studio Ghibli
Studio Ghibli’s movies gathered worldwide recognition and they still remain to be the only films of the medium to have ever won an Oscar not only once but twice. With how much fame these films had gathered, the competition looked rather rudimentary. Up and coming manga and anime may come but the charm and impact Ghibli films hold will remain forevermore.
Hayao Miyazaki’s True Competition
During an interview with Fuji TV (via Sora News 24), Toshio Suzuki, the co-founder of Studio Ghibli had much to say...
Spirited Away | Credit: Studio Ghibli
Studio Ghibli’s movies gathered worldwide recognition and they still remain to be the only films of the medium to have ever won an Oscar not only once but twice. With how much fame these films had gathered, the competition looked rather rudimentary. Up and coming manga and anime may come but the charm and impact Ghibli films hold will remain forevermore.
Hayao Miyazaki’s True Competition
During an interview with Fuji TV (via Sora News 24), Toshio Suzuki, the co-founder of Studio Ghibli had much to say...
- 9/19/2024
- by Adya Godboley
- FandomWire
As you may or may not have noticed, Florence Pugh took a breather from acting this summer, a rare break for the self-described “work maniac.”
In an interview with British Vogue, the costar (with Andrew Garfield) of the soon-to-be-released romance-drama We Live In Time said she took a break from acting recently for the first time in a career that goes back to 2014’s The Falling and more recently included roles in Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer and Denis Villeneuve’s Dune: Part Two.
The time-out marked the “first time ever in my career when I’ve actually asked for a summer break”, she tells the magazine. “I’m an absolute work maniac, [but] I can see I’m exhausted.”
Since 2023, Pugh has had on-screen or voice roles in The Trident, A Good Person, Human Resources, Oppenheimer, The Boy and the Heron, Dune: Part Two and We Live in Time. She’ll...
In an interview with British Vogue, the costar (with Andrew Garfield) of the soon-to-be-released romance-drama We Live In Time said she took a break from acting recently for the first time in a career that goes back to 2014’s The Falling and more recently included roles in Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer and Denis Villeneuve’s Dune: Part Two.
The time-out marked the “first time ever in my career when I’ve actually asked for a summer break”, she tells the magazine. “I’m an absolute work maniac, [but] I can see I’m exhausted.”
Since 2023, Pugh has had on-screen or voice roles in The Trident, A Good Person, Human Resources, Oppenheimer, The Boy and the Heron, Dune: Part Two and We Live in Time. She’ll...
- 9/18/2024
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Robert Pattinson Fans Laud Actor's Mickey 17 Accent - Main Image
As Robert Pattinson continues to surprise fans with his acting trajectory, Bong Joon Ho's dystopian flick Mickey 17 launches the star of The Batman into outer space with one of the weirdest accents fans have heard from the actor.
Mickey 17 Trailer Stuns Fans with Robert Pattinson's Range
While most fans recognize Robert Pattinson in major Hollywood franchises such as Stephenie Meyer's hunky vampire Edward Cullen in the Twilight series, Cedric Diggory in the Harry Potter franchise, and DC's The Batman, the 38-year-old actor has also made quite a name for himself outside his biggest Sagas.
From gracing the screens as Rev. Preston Teagardin in the 2020 thriller The Devil All the Time to becoming the English voice actor for The Grey Heron in Studio Ghibli's animated The Boy and the Heron, fans add Mickey 17 to his...
As Robert Pattinson continues to surprise fans with his acting trajectory, Bong Joon Ho's dystopian flick Mickey 17 launches the star of The Batman into outer space with one of the weirdest accents fans have heard from the actor.
Mickey 17 Trailer Stuns Fans with Robert Pattinson's Range
While most fans recognize Robert Pattinson in major Hollywood franchises such as Stephenie Meyer's hunky vampire Edward Cullen in the Twilight series, Cedric Diggory in the Harry Potter franchise, and DC's The Batman, the 38-year-old actor has also made quite a name for himself outside his biggest Sagas.
From gracing the screens as Rev. Preston Teagardin in the 2020 thriller The Devil All the Time to becoming the English voice actor for The Grey Heron in Studio Ghibli's animated The Boy and the Heron, fans add Mickey 17 to his...
- 9/18/2024
- EpicStream
Robert Pattinson is sacrificing himself for science, literally, in the trailer for Bong Joon Ho’s Mickey 17. In the clip, Pattinson plays a man named Mickey who volunteers to be an “expendable” and is subject to repeated deaths in a futuristic world.
The comedic trailer, which sees the British Pattinson doing an unusual American accent, shows Mickey forced to die in violent ways in the name of research, with his body replicated each time he kicks the bucket. Eventually, though, two Mickeys exist at once, causing both chaos and excitement.
The comedic trailer, which sees the British Pattinson doing an unusual American accent, shows Mickey forced to die in violent ways in the name of research, with his body replicated each time he kicks the bucket. Eventually, though, two Mickeys exist at once, causing both chaos and excitement.
- 9/18/2024
- by Emily Zemler
- Rollingstone.com
The most recent Studio Ghibli film (The Boy and the Heron) is now streaming on Max, but its ending may be confusing for a lot of viewers.
Hayao Miyazaki wrote and directed the Academy Award-winning animated film, which was in development for seven years before its release in July 2023.
As with most Studio Ghibli films, The Boy and the Heron features both a Japanese and English-speaking cast, the latter of which includes A-listers such as Robert Pattinson, Karen Fukuhara, Gemma Chan, Florence Pugh, and Willem Dafoe.
Read full article on The Direct.
Hayao Miyazaki wrote and directed the Academy Award-winning animated film, which was in development for seven years before its release in July 2023.
As with most Studio Ghibli films, The Boy and the Heron features both a Japanese and English-speaking cast, the latter of which includes A-listers such as Robert Pattinson, Karen Fukuhara, Gemma Chan, Florence Pugh, and Willem Dafoe.
Read full article on The Direct.
- 9/18/2024
- by Lauren Rouse
- The Direct
See The Film Critics Are Calling “The Best Animated Movie Of The Year!” This Fall, Dreamworks Animation Invites You To Discover Your True Nature. The Wild Robot. Rated PG. In Theaters September 27Th.
https://www.thewildrobotmovie.com
The special screening is 7Pm on Monday, September 23rd @ The Galleria 6 Cinemas
Please arrive early as seating is not guaranteed.
Ten winners will each receive 4 passes to the screening.
Get Your Passes Here: http://gofobo.com/UPKqA35930
(from back center) Roz (Lupita N’yongo), and Brightbill (Kit Connor) in DreamWorks Animation’s Wild Robot, directed by Chris Sanders.
From DreamWorks Animation comes a new adaptation of a literary sensation, Peter Brown’s beloved, award-winning, #1 New York Times bestseller, The Wild Robot.
The epic adventure follows the journey of a robot—Rozzum unit 7134, “Roz” for short — that is shipwrecked on an uninhabited island and must learn to adapt to the harsh surroundings, gradually building...
https://www.thewildrobotmovie.com
The special screening is 7Pm on Monday, September 23rd @ The Galleria 6 Cinemas
Please arrive early as seating is not guaranteed.
Ten winners will each receive 4 passes to the screening.
Get Your Passes Here: http://gofobo.com/UPKqA35930
(from back center) Roz (Lupita N’yongo), and Brightbill (Kit Connor) in DreamWorks Animation’s Wild Robot, directed by Chris Sanders.
From DreamWorks Animation comes a new adaptation of a literary sensation, Peter Brown’s beloved, award-winning, #1 New York Times bestseller, The Wild Robot.
The epic adventure follows the journey of a robot—Rozzum unit 7134, “Roz” for short — that is shipwrecked on an uninhabited island and must learn to adapt to the harsh surroundings, gradually building...
- 9/18/2024
- by Movie Geeks
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Studio Ghibli’s film The Boy and The Heron is available to rent and buy on digital from 16th September; on 4K Uhd, Blu-ray, and DVD from 23rd September; and with a limited edition Steelbook available from 7th October. To celebrate we are giving away a 4K Uhd set with some very cute merch including: Stackable Warawa figurines, Roly poly Heron + Warawara and Theatrical Quad to one lucky winner!
The critically-acclaimed film was the first new work from Hayao Miyazaki in ten years, following his 2013 feature, The Wind Rises, and was a decade in the making. The beautiful, hand-drawn, original story was written and directed by Miyazaki. Produced by Studio Ghibli co-founder Toshio Suzuki, the film features a musical score from Miyazaki’s long-time collaborator Joe Hisaishi. The theme song for the film “Spinning Globe” was written and performed by global J-pop superstar Kenshi Yonezu.
The English language dubbed version...
The critically-acclaimed film was the first new work from Hayao Miyazaki in ten years, following his 2013 feature, The Wind Rises, and was a decade in the making. The beautiful, hand-drawn, original story was written and directed by Miyazaki. Produced by Studio Ghibli co-founder Toshio Suzuki, the film features a musical score from Miyazaki’s long-time collaborator Joe Hisaishi. The theme song for the film “Spinning Globe” was written and performed by global J-pop superstar Kenshi Yonezu.
The English language dubbed version...
- 9/15/2024
- by Competitions
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Überraschung: Keiner der vermeintlichen großem Favoriten konnte den renommierten Publikumspreis des 49. Toronto International Film Festival gewinnen. Vielmehr ging er an die von der Kritik eher kontrovers besprochene Stephen-King-Adaption „The Life of Chuck“ von Mike Flanagan.
„The Life of Chuck“ von Mike Flanagan (Credit: Courtesy of TIFF)
Gemeinhin gilt der TIFF People’s Choice Award des Toronto International Film Festival als probater Gradmesser für kommende Oscarsaison: Wiederholt konnten die Gewinner später auch als bester Film bei den Oscars abräumen, nur in Ausnahmefällen wird der Gewinner später nicht zumindest als bester Film nominiert. Weshalb man zum Ende des 49. Toronto International Film Festival als Favoriten für den Publikumspreis durchaus die Filme gesehen hatte, die man auch große Chancen bei den kommenden Academy Awards einräumt, sprich die beiden Cannes-Abräumer „Anora“ und „Emilia Pérez“ sowie vielleicht noch Edward Bergers hochgeschätzten „Konklave“ und „Saturday Night“ von dem Lokalmatadoren Jason Reitman.
Zoe Saldaña in Jacques Audiards „Emilia Pérez...
„The Life of Chuck“ von Mike Flanagan (Credit: Courtesy of TIFF)
Gemeinhin gilt der TIFF People’s Choice Award des Toronto International Film Festival als probater Gradmesser für kommende Oscarsaison: Wiederholt konnten die Gewinner später auch als bester Film bei den Oscars abräumen, nur in Ausnahmefällen wird der Gewinner später nicht zumindest als bester Film nominiert. Weshalb man zum Ende des 49. Toronto International Film Festival als Favoriten für den Publikumspreis durchaus die Filme gesehen hatte, die man auch große Chancen bei den kommenden Academy Awards einräumt, sprich die beiden Cannes-Abräumer „Anora“ und „Emilia Pérez“ sowie vielleicht noch Edward Bergers hochgeschätzten „Konklave“ und „Saturday Night“ von dem Lokalmatadoren Jason Reitman.
Zoe Saldaña in Jacques Audiards „Emilia Pérez...
- 9/15/2024
- by Thomas Schultze
- Spot - Media & Film
It’s time to get ready for the theatrical release of Kenshi Yonezu’s latest concert as tickets for Kenshi Yonezu 2023 Tour / Fantasy are now available to purchase! Crunchyroll and Sony Pictures Entertainment will help release the movie starting September 24 for a one-day-only special release, with premiere dates including screenings at select theaters in the following locations: Los Angeles: Regal LA Live (Septmeber 24 and 25) London: Vue London West End (September 24) Paris: Pathé La Villette (September 24) New York City: Regal Union Square (September 25) Toronto: Cineplex Yonge-Dundas (September 25) Sydney: Event Cinemas George Street (September 26) The concert film will also screen in the following locations: September 28: Mexico, Brazil, Peru, Chile (cities to be announced) Kenshi Yonezu is known for his songs featured in Chainsaw Man , Final Fantasy XVI , The Boy and the Heron and more. His latest album, Lost Corner, is now available worldwide. The concert film is described as such: Kenshi Yonezu...
- 9/13/2024
- by Kyle Cardine
- Crunchyroll
Exclusive: Juliette Lewis (Yellowjackets) and Mamoudou Athie (Kinds of Kindness) lead the cast of By Design, a new indie feature written and directed by Amanda Kramer (Please Baby Please), which has wrapped production in Los Angeles.
Others in the cast include Samantha Mathis (The Exorcism), Robin Tunney (Dear Edward), Clifton Collins Jr. (Jockey), Udo Kier (Swan Song) and Betty Buckley (Eternity).
While plot details are being kept under wraps, the film has been described as a twist on the body swap genre.
Miranda Bailey and Natalie Whalen from Cold Iron Pictures produced alongside Sarah Winshall of Smudge Films (I Saw the TV Glow), Jacob Agger, and Amanda Kramer. Lauren Mann, Jason Beck, Madison McKinley, James Belfer, Karen Belfer, and Riccardo Maddalosso served as executive producers.
An Oscar nominee currently starring in Showtime’s hit drama Yellowjackets, which is heading into its third season,...
Others in the cast include Samantha Mathis (The Exorcism), Robin Tunney (Dear Edward), Clifton Collins Jr. (Jockey), Udo Kier (Swan Song) and Betty Buckley (Eternity).
While plot details are being kept under wraps, the film has been described as a twist on the body swap genre.
Miranda Bailey and Natalie Whalen from Cold Iron Pictures produced alongside Sarah Winshall of Smudge Films (I Saw the TV Glow), Jacob Agger, and Amanda Kramer. Lauren Mann, Jason Beck, Madison McKinley, James Belfer, Karen Belfer, and Riccardo Maddalosso served as executive producers.
An Oscar nominee currently starring in Showtime’s hit drama Yellowjackets, which is heading into its third season,...
- 9/11/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
With things constantly being swapped out or deleted from your favorite streaming service, a commitment to physical media should be stronger now than ever before. And thankfully both big studios and smaller boutique labels understand how important physical releases are.
We are running down the very best 4K Blu-ray and DVD releases from July and August 2024.
“Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid” MGM
One of the most hotly anticipated home video releases of the year is here – and it was worth the wait. Sam Peckinpah’s highly contested western, about an older Pat Garrett (James Coburn) hired to track down and kill Billy the Kid (Kris Kristofferson), was taken away from the filmmaker in post-production and released in a truncated version that he and several of the cast and crew members outspokenly derided. This Criterion release acknowledges and engages with the various iterations of the movie, with 4K discs devoted...
We are running down the very best 4K Blu-ray and DVD releases from July and August 2024.
“Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid” MGM
One of the most hotly anticipated home video releases of the year is here – and it was worth the wait. Sam Peckinpah’s highly contested western, about an older Pat Garrett (James Coburn) hired to track down and kill Billy the Kid (Kris Kristofferson), was taken away from the filmmaker in post-production and released in a truncated version that he and several of the cast and crew members outspokenly derided. This Criterion release acknowledges and engages with the various iterations of the movie, with 4K discs devoted...
- 9/11/2024
- by Drew Taylor
- The Wrap
Box office preview: Will ‘Speak No Evil’ keep ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’ from its first place repeat?
“Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” may have given the fall movie season a serious jumpstart, but it’s not the only September release, as we are about to go into yet another busy weekend. Read on for Gold Derby’s box office preview.
James McAvoy, Mackenzie Davis, Scott McNairy, and Aisling Franciosi (“The Last Voyage of the Demeter”) star in Universal Pictures and Blumhouse’s remake of the Danish horror film “Speak No Evil,” which received rave reviews when it premiered at Sundance and ended up streaming on Shudder. Directed by British filmmaker James Watkins (“The Woman in Black”), this remake looks pretty straight-forward with the same premise of a couple traveling to visit another couple they met on holiday, with the biggest difference being that the respective families are now American and British.
Being released after two horror movies bombed two weekends in a row, but Universal has been marketing the heck...
James McAvoy, Mackenzie Davis, Scott McNairy, and Aisling Franciosi (“The Last Voyage of the Demeter”) star in Universal Pictures and Blumhouse’s remake of the Danish horror film “Speak No Evil,” which received rave reviews when it premiered at Sundance and ended up streaming on Shudder. Directed by British filmmaker James Watkins (“The Woman in Black”), this remake looks pretty straight-forward with the same premise of a couple traveling to visit another couple they met on holiday, with the biggest difference being that the respective families are now American and British.
Being released after two horror movies bombed two weekends in a row, but Universal has been marketing the heck...
- 9/11/2024
- by Edward Douglas
- Gold Derby
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