Not sure that I would equate Tom Holland and Zendaya with the same level of triple-a star firepower as Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor, but the last time I witnessed sheer frenzied pandemonium outside the Duke of York’s Theatre was when Taylor went to see Burton read excerpts from Dylan Thomas’ Under Milk Wood in February 1982.
It was bonkers, with onlookers five deep on both sides of the street waiting for a glimpse of the superstar much-married Hollywood lovers.
Four decades on, I found myself at the same theatre that has stood on the site in St. Martin’s Lane since 1892.
This time it was the occasion of the official opening night for Jamie Lloyd’s stark, modern-dress production of Shakespeare’s The Most Excellent and Lamentable Tragedy of Romeo & Juliet, to give its full title, starring Holland and Francesca Amewudah-Rivers as the tragic star-crossed lovers.
This time barricades...
It was bonkers, with onlookers five deep on both sides of the street waiting for a glimpse of the superstar much-married Hollywood lovers.
Four decades on, I found myself at the same theatre that has stood on the site in St. Martin’s Lane since 1892.
This time it was the occasion of the official opening night for Jamie Lloyd’s stark, modern-dress production of Shakespeare’s The Most Excellent and Lamentable Tragedy of Romeo & Juliet, to give its full title, starring Holland and Francesca Amewudah-Rivers as the tragic star-crossed lovers.
This time barricades...
- 5/24/2024
- by Baz Bamigboye
- Deadline Film + TV
Jessica Henwick (“Glass Onion”) and Alisha Weir (“Abigail”) have been tapped for new animated feature “The Land of Sometimes.”
They will join “Star Wars” icon Ewan McGregor and “The Crown” star Helena Bonham Carter on the project, which also features one of the final performances from the late “Monty Python” alum Terry Jones.
A first look of the film, which is repped by Kaleidoscope Film Distribution for global sales, is set to be shown to buyers in Cannes next week with director Leon Joosen (“The Little Mermaid”) on hand to introduce the project.
“Be careful what you wish for!” reads the logline. “Twins Alfie and Elise get more than they bargained for when the Wish Collector takes them to an island full of wonder, with ever-changing seasons. They face a mechanical foe, fantastical creatures and a truth that shines brighter than any wish: the power of family.”
The film, from Two Daughters Entertainment,...
They will join “Star Wars” icon Ewan McGregor and “The Crown” star Helena Bonham Carter on the project, which also features one of the final performances from the late “Monty Python” alum Terry Jones.
A first look of the film, which is repped by Kaleidoscope Film Distribution for global sales, is set to be shown to buyers in Cannes next week with director Leon Joosen (“The Little Mermaid”) on hand to introduce the project.
“Be careful what you wish for!” reads the logline. “Twins Alfie and Elise get more than they bargained for when the Wish Collector takes them to an island full of wonder, with ever-changing seasons. They face a mechanical foe, fantastical creatures and a truth that shines brighter than any wish: the power of family.”
The film, from Two Daughters Entertainment,...
- 5/8/2024
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
After almost two years off the air “So You Think You Can Dance” returned for its 18th season on Monday night, March 4, on Fox. So what happened on the first night of competition? Scroll down for our “Auditions: Day One” live blog, updating throughout the episode.
Cat Deeley is back as host of the show, but there are major changes around her as the series revamps its format for this latest edition of the competition. For starters, we have a refreshed judging panel. “Dancing with the Stars” Mirror Ball champion Maksim Chmerkovskiy is coming onboard “Sytycd” as a judge for the very first time, joining Emmy-nominated “DWTS” and “Sytycd” alum Allison Holker and returning “Sytycd” judge JoJo Siwa, who recently made “DWTS” history as the first celebrity to compete with a same-sex partner, Jenna Johnson; they ultimately finished second. During this year’s “Sytycd” auditions rounds, series All-Star Comfort Fedoke...
Cat Deeley is back as host of the show, but there are major changes around her as the series revamps its format for this latest edition of the competition. For starters, we have a refreshed judging panel. “Dancing with the Stars” Mirror Ball champion Maksim Chmerkovskiy is coming onboard “Sytycd” as a judge for the very first time, joining Emmy-nominated “DWTS” and “Sytycd” alum Allison Holker and returning “Sytycd” judge JoJo Siwa, who recently made “DWTS” history as the first celebrity to compete with a same-sex partner, Jenna Johnson; they ultimately finished second. During this year’s “Sytycd” auditions rounds, series All-Star Comfort Fedoke...
- 3/5/2024
- by Daniel Montgomery
- Gold Derby
Bill Nighy and “Jojo Rabbit” breakout Roman Griffin Davis are lined up to star in “500 Miles,” directed by BAFTA winner Morgan Matthews.
Beta Cinema has acquired international sales rights to the film, and will launch sales at next week’s European Film Market.
The film, described as a “thrilling road movie full of heart, wit and wonder,” follows a broken family forced to come together when 16-year-old Finn (Davis) and his livewire younger brother Charlie run away from trouble at home in England to reach their estranged grandfather (Nighy) on Ireland’s stunning and wild west coast.
Matthews, director of drama “X+Y” starring Asa Butterfield and Sally Hawkins as well as documentary “Williams,” is set to direct from a script by Malcolm Campbell, based on the novel “Charlie and Me” by Mark Lowery.
Former head of BBC Film David Thompson is producing with Alex Gordon and Keren Misgav Ristvedt for Origin Pictures,...
Beta Cinema has acquired international sales rights to the film, and will launch sales at next week’s European Film Market.
The film, described as a “thrilling road movie full of heart, wit and wonder,” follows a broken family forced to come together when 16-year-old Finn (Davis) and his livewire younger brother Charlie run away from trouble at home in England to reach their estranged grandfather (Nighy) on Ireland’s stunning and wild west coast.
Matthews, director of drama “X+Y” starring Asa Butterfield and Sally Hawkins as well as documentary “Williams,” is set to direct from a script by Malcolm Campbell, based on the novel “Charlie and Me” by Mark Lowery.
Former head of BBC Film David Thompson is producing with Alex Gordon and Keren Misgav Ristvedt for Origin Pictures,...
- 2/9/2024
- by Leo Barraclough
- Variety Film + TV
Academy Award nominee Bill Nighy and rising teen actor Roman Griffin Davis are set to co-star in road movie 500 Miles from BAFTA Award-winning director Morgan Matthews.
Beta Cinema has acquired international sales rights to the drama – produced by Origin Pictures, Port Pictures and Minnow Films – and will launch sales at the EFM.
Nighy will co-star as the grandfather of a young runaway played by Davis, who made history in 2019 as the youngest ever Golden Globe nominee for his performance in Taika Waititi’s World War II satire Jojo Rabbit. Recent credits for Nighy include Living, for which he was Oscar nominated in the lead actor category last year.
Road movie 500 Miles follows a broken family forced to come together when sixteen-year-old Finn (Davis) and his live-wire younger brother Charlie run away from trouble at home in England to reach their estranged grandfather (Nighy) on Ireland’s stunning and wild west coast.
Beta Cinema has acquired international sales rights to the drama – produced by Origin Pictures, Port Pictures and Minnow Films – and will launch sales at the EFM.
Nighy will co-star as the grandfather of a young runaway played by Davis, who made history in 2019 as the youngest ever Golden Globe nominee for his performance in Taika Waititi’s World War II satire Jojo Rabbit. Recent credits for Nighy include Living, for which he was Oscar nominated in the lead actor category last year.
Road movie 500 Miles follows a broken family forced to come together when sixteen-year-old Finn (Davis) and his live-wire younger brother Charlie run away from trouble at home in England to reach their estranged grandfather (Nighy) on Ireland’s stunning and wild west coast.
- 2/9/2024
- by Melanie Goodfellow
- Deadline Film + TV
As Andrea Riseborough (“To Leslie”), Penélope Cruz (“Parallel Mothers”), and Lakeith Stanfield (“Judas and the Black Messiah”) have proven in recent years, there is ample precedent for performers to earn Oscar nominations despite snubs at the BAFTA, Critics Choice, Golden Globe, and SAG Awards. Indeed, 18 such instances have occurred since 2002, the first year that all four precursor prizes were preceded by official nominations.
Over the last 22 years, each of the four acting Oscar categories has produced at least three out-of-the-blue bids. However, none of the performers who overcame their four earlier snubs managed to clinch the gold and instead had to settle for being Oscar finalists.
It’s worth noting that Marcia Gay Harden won the Best Supporting Actress Oscar for “Pollock” without any precursor bids, albeit in 2001 when there were no Critics Choice nominations. The four precursor trophies were evenly distributed among her Oscar competitors: Judi Dench, Kate Hudson,...
Over the last 22 years, each of the four acting Oscar categories has produced at least three out-of-the-blue bids. However, none of the performers who overcame their four earlier snubs managed to clinch the gold and instead had to settle for being Oscar finalists.
It’s worth noting that Marcia Gay Harden won the Best Supporting Actress Oscar for “Pollock” without any precursor bids, albeit in 2001 when there were no Critics Choice nominations. The four precursor trophies were evenly distributed among her Oscar competitors: Judi Dench, Kate Hudson,...
- 1/18/2024
- by Matthew Stewart
- Gold Derby
There is plenty of precedent for performers to still earn Oscar nominations after snubs by the Critics Choice Awards, Golden Globes and SAG Awards. Last year, Andrea Riseborough became the latest Oscar contender to come out of nowhere when she reaped a Best Actress bid for “To Leslie.”
She joined a roster of 23 other performers who heard their names on Oscar nominations morning despite being repeatedly overlooked earlier in awards season. However, for all of those who overcame these earlier snubs the nomination had to be reward enough as none took home the Oscar.
(Note: Marcia Gay Harden won the Best Supporting Actress Oscar for “Pollock” without any precursor bids. However, that was in 2001, the year before the Critics Choice introduced nominations. Frances McDormand won with that group for both “Almost Famous” and “Wonder Boys,” Kate Hudson took home the Globe for “Almost Famous” and Judi Dench prevailed at SAG for “Chocolat.
She joined a roster of 23 other performers who heard their names on Oscar nominations morning despite being repeatedly overlooked earlier in awards season. However, for all of those who overcame these earlier snubs the nomination had to be reward enough as none took home the Oscar.
(Note: Marcia Gay Harden won the Best Supporting Actress Oscar for “Pollock” without any precursor bids. However, that was in 2001, the year before the Critics Choice introduced nominations. Frances McDormand won with that group for both “Almost Famous” and “Wonder Boys,” Kate Hudson took home the Globe for “Almost Famous” and Judi Dench prevailed at SAG for “Chocolat.
- 1/15/2024
- by Paul Sheehan and Matthew Stewart
- Gold Derby
Ever since “The Holdovers” premiered at the 2023 Telluride Film Festival, 21-year-old Dominic Sessa has steadily attracted heaps of praise for his debut performance as one of its central characters. Despite earning recognition from some critics groups, he now unfortunately sits as a BAFTA longlist contender with no other key industry precursor bids. However, there is plenty of precedent for performers to still earn Oscar nominations after snubs by the Critics Choice Awards, Golden Globes and SAG Awards.
Below, we list the 24 performers who pulled off Oscar nominations surprises after being overlooked earlier in awards season. However, for all of those who overcame these earlier snubs the nomination had to be reward enough as none took home the Oscar. Andrea Riseborough (“To Leslie”) is the latest addition to this list for her Best Actress bid last year.
(Note: Marcia Gay Harden won the Best Supporting Actress Oscar for “Pollock” without any precursor bids.
Below, we list the 24 performers who pulled off Oscar nominations surprises after being overlooked earlier in awards season. However, for all of those who overcame these earlier snubs the nomination had to be reward enough as none took home the Oscar. Andrea Riseborough (“To Leslie”) is the latest addition to this list for her Best Actress bid last year.
(Note: Marcia Gay Harden won the Best Supporting Actress Oscar for “Pollock” without any precursor bids.
- 1/11/2024
- by Paul Sheehan and Matthew Stewart
- Gold Derby
Claire Foy was "embarrassingly excited" to be in 'All of Us Strangers' with Andrew Scott, Paul Mescal and Jamie Bell.The 39-year-old star features in Andrew Haigh's tear-jerking romantic fantasy film and explained how she had to "rein it in" working with her co-stars.Claire told IndieWire: "I got to tick off a lot of my bucket list actors in this."I was embarrassingly excited to be in the film with the three of them. I wasn't a fan girl! I managed to rein it in. There were some definitely very exciting days."Claire had particular praise for 'Billy Elliot' star Jamie and was desperate for him to join the cast after learning that he had been approached by the director.'The Crown' actress explained: "When I heard that Andrew was going to offer it to Jamie, I was just like, oh, my God, I wish...
- 12/21/2023
- by Joe Graber
- Bang Showbiz
Actress Haydn Gwynne died today following a recent cancer diagnosis. She was 66.
Her representatives confirmed the news Friday with a statement handed to multiple news outlets. The statement said Gwynne died in hospital “in the small hours of Friday, October 20, surrounded by her beloved sons, close family, and friends.”
“We would like to thank the staff and teams at the Royal Marsden and Brompton hospitals for their wonderful care over the last few weeks,” the statement added.
Born in Sussex, England, Gwynne studied Modern Languages at the University of Warwick before taking a five-year lectureship in Italy, where she taught English. She became an actress in her mid-twenties and first came to notice on television as starring in the David Lodge campus comedy/drama Nice Work (1989) before joining the comedy series Drop the Dead Donkey (1990), for which she earned a BAFTA TV nomination in 1992.
Some of her other small screen credits included Peak Practice,...
Her representatives confirmed the news Friday with a statement handed to multiple news outlets. The statement said Gwynne died in hospital “in the small hours of Friday, October 20, surrounded by her beloved sons, close family, and friends.”
“We would like to thank the staff and teams at the Royal Marsden and Brompton hospitals for their wonderful care over the last few weeks,” the statement added.
Born in Sussex, England, Gwynne studied Modern Languages at the University of Warwick before taking a five-year lectureship in Italy, where she taught English. She became an actress in her mid-twenties and first came to notice on television as starring in the David Lodge campus comedy/drama Nice Work (1989) before joining the comedy series Drop the Dead Donkey (1990), for which she earned a BAFTA TV nomination in 1992.
Some of her other small screen credits included Peak Practice,...
- 10/20/2023
- by Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
Haydn Gwynne, a stage and screen actor who starred in royal comedy “The Windsors” and also appeared in “The Crown,” died on Friday of cancer, Variety has confirmed. She was 66.
“It is with great sadness we are sharing with you that, following her recent diagnosis with cancer, the star of stage and screen Haydn Gwynne died in hospital in the small hours of Friday 20 October, surrounded by her beloved sons, close family and friends,” her agent said in a statement. “We would like to thank the staff and teams at the Royal Marsden and Brompton Hospitals for their wonderful care over the last few weeks.”
Gwynne made her TV breakthrough in the late 1980s with the drama “Nice Work” before going on to star in other British series including “Peak Practice,” “Merseybeat” and BBC series “Rome” as Julius Caesar’s wife Calpurnia.
But it was her role as cynical journalist...
“It is with great sadness we are sharing with you that, following her recent diagnosis with cancer, the star of stage and screen Haydn Gwynne died in hospital in the small hours of Friday 20 October, surrounded by her beloved sons, close family and friends,” her agent said in a statement. “We would like to thank the staff and teams at the Royal Marsden and Brompton Hospitals for their wonderful care over the last few weeks.”
Gwynne made her TV breakthrough in the late 1980s with the drama “Nice Work” before going on to star in other British series including “Peak Practice,” “Merseybeat” and BBC series “Rome” as Julius Caesar’s wife Calpurnia.
But it was her role as cynical journalist...
- 10/20/2023
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
Opening the 11th edition of the International Classic Film Market which runs alongside the Lumière Film Festival in Lyon, the floor was given to Hella Wenders and Claire Brunel, the managing directors of the Foundation set up by Wim Wenders, the recipient of this year’s lifetime achievement Lumière Award.
Thanks to public and private funding, the non-profit foundation was able to buy back the rights to the German filmmaker’s entire body of work in 2012, which includes 52 films both long and short, with a very clear objective: To preserve, maintain and disseminate Wenders’ works, and make it permanently accessible to the public worldwide.
In a conversation earlier this year with Gianluca Farinelli, who heads the Bologna Film Archives and its film restoration lab, a world leader in film preservation, Wenders explained it simply.
“Movies are only living because there’s an audience that sees them. […] If anyone wants to...
Thanks to public and private funding, the non-profit foundation was able to buy back the rights to the German filmmaker’s entire body of work in 2012, which includes 52 films both long and short, with a very clear objective: To preserve, maintain and disseminate Wenders’ works, and make it permanently accessible to the public worldwide.
In a conversation earlier this year with Gianluca Farinelli, who heads the Bologna Film Archives and its film restoration lab, a world leader in film preservation, Wenders explained it simply.
“Movies are only living because there’s an audience that sees them. […] If anyone wants to...
- 10/18/2023
- by Lise Pedersen
- Variety Film + TV
Andrew Scott sees dead people, but he could also see an Oscar nomination come his way with his heartbreaking and tenderly emotional turn as a gay screenwriter in Andrew Haigh’s drama “All of Us Strangers.”
Loosely based on Taichi Yamada’s 1987 novel “Strangers,” the film follows screenwriter Adam (Scott), who, after an encounter with his neighbor Harry (Paul Mescal), is mysteriously pulled back into his childhood home, where it appears his long-dead parents (played by Claire Foy and Jamie Bell) are actually alive — and haven’t aged in 30 years.
Emmy nominee Scott (guest drama actor in 2020 for “Black Mirror”) has been seamlessly maneuvering back and forth between film and television, notably garnering massive attention for his “hot priest” role on “Fleabag.” He absorbs the underlying pain of losing parents, while also grappling with the lingering question of whether they would approve of you or not. It may sound like...
Loosely based on Taichi Yamada’s 1987 novel “Strangers,” the film follows screenwriter Adam (Scott), who, after an encounter with his neighbor Harry (Paul Mescal), is mysteriously pulled back into his childhood home, where it appears his long-dead parents (played by Claire Foy and Jamie Bell) are actually alive — and haven’t aged in 30 years.
Emmy nominee Scott (guest drama actor in 2020 for “Black Mirror”) has been seamlessly maneuvering back and forth between film and television, notably garnering massive attention for his “hot priest” role on “Fleabag.” He absorbs the underlying pain of losing parents, while also grappling with the lingering question of whether they would approve of you or not. It may sound like...
- 9/3/2023
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
One of the biggest events in the world is coming in July and the only way to stream it without a live TV streaming subscription will be on Peacock. The 2023 Women’s World Cup will be played in Australia and New Zealand from July 20 to Aug. 20. The NBCUniversal service will stream every match of the event in Spanish for the entire month. The United States Women’s National Team is scheduled to play three games during the group stage, facing off against Vietnam on July 21 at 9 p.m. Et, Netherlands on July 26 at 9 p.m. Et, and Portugal on Aug. 1 at 3 a.m. Et.
Toward the end of the month, Peacock will drop all 10 episodes of the highly anticipated adaptation of the beloved video game “Twisted Metal.” In the series, which premieres on July 27, Anthony Mackie is a motor-mouthed amnesiac milkman who is offered a chance at a better life,...
Toward the end of the month, Peacock will drop all 10 episodes of the highly anticipated adaptation of the beloved video game “Twisted Metal.” In the series, which premieres on July 27, Anthony Mackie is a motor-mouthed amnesiac milkman who is offered a chance at a better life,...
- 6/28/2023
- by Fern Siegel
- The Streamable
Jodie Comer has become the 100th performer to win a Tony Award for their Broadway debut for her performance in the play, “Prima Facie.”
She won Best Actress in a Play for portraying Tess, a lawyer who concentrates in providing legal defense for men who are accused of sexual assault but soon has the unthinkable happen to her. She is the 11th person to win the category for her first outing on a Broadway stage. She joins:
SEE2023 Tony Awards: Every winner (and nominee) in all 26 competitive categories
Martita Hunt, “The Madwoman of Chaillot” (1949)
Beryl Reid, “The Killing of Sister George” (1967)
Phyllis Frelich, “Children of a Lesser God” (1980)
Jane Lapotaire, “Piaf” (1981)
Joan Allen, “Burn This” (1988)
Pauline Collins, “Shirley Valentine” (1989)
Janet McTeer, “A Doll’s House” (1997)
Marie Mullen, “The Beauty Queen of Leeane” (1998)
Jennifer Ehle, “The Real Thing” (2000)
Deanna Dunagan, “August: Osage County” (2008)
Below are the Broadway debuts in the seven other...
She won Best Actress in a Play for portraying Tess, a lawyer who concentrates in providing legal defense for men who are accused of sexual assault but soon has the unthinkable happen to her. She is the 11th person to win the category for her first outing on a Broadway stage. She joins:
SEE2023 Tony Awards: Every winner (and nominee) in all 26 competitive categories
Martita Hunt, “The Madwoman of Chaillot” (1949)
Beryl Reid, “The Killing of Sister George” (1967)
Phyllis Frelich, “Children of a Lesser God” (1980)
Jane Lapotaire, “Piaf” (1981)
Joan Allen, “Burn This” (1988)
Pauline Collins, “Shirley Valentine” (1989)
Janet McTeer, “A Doll’s House” (1997)
Marie Mullen, “The Beauty Queen of Leeane” (1998)
Jennifer Ehle, “The Real Thing” (2000)
Deanna Dunagan, “August: Osage County” (2008)
Below are the Broadway debuts in the seven other...
- 6/12/2023
- by Charles Bright
- Gold Derby
The Crowded Room Review: Apple TV+'s Psychological Thriller Miscasts Tom Holland And Amanda Seyfried
"The comic-book franchise is where traditional movie stardom is going to die," wrote Wesley Morris in a widely-shared 2016 piece for The New York Times. "Every good young actor vacuumed up by a superhero franchise or a megahit movie series costs us a fresh star persona." The statement was relevant just weeks after Tom Holland slung his first web as Spider-Man, and it's relevant now as he plots his path forward as an actor with his fate inside the suit still uncertain.
The fresh-faced innocence he brought to the third cinematic incarnation of a comic-book character within two decades made him a fan favorite in the "Avengers" series. Any audience who saw the final two chapters can recall feeling the air sucked out of the room when he vanishes in "The Snap" — and remember cheering when he re-emerges in the grand finale battle. As arguably the only star birthed by participating in the Marvel machine,...
The fresh-faced innocence he brought to the third cinematic incarnation of a comic-book character within two decades made him a fan favorite in the "Avengers" series. Any audience who saw the final two chapters can recall feeling the air sucked out of the room when he vanishes in "The Snap" — and remember cheering when he re-emerges in the grand finale battle. As arguably the only star birthed by participating in the Marvel machine,...
- 6/2/2023
- by Marshall Shaffer
- Slash Film
When the role of Spider-Man was going to be re-cast again — following Tobey Maguire in Sam Raimi's widely praised trilogy and Andrew Garfield's angsty turn in the dark and underappreciated "The Amazing Spider-Man" series — Sony Pictures and the Marvel Cinematic Universe needed an actor who could step into the suit in new and exciting ways.
Robert Downey Jr. refers to Spider-Man as "the gold standard in the MCU," unlike his own comic book character. "Iron Man? Whatever. When I became Iron Man few had even heard of the character, ergo less pressure. But Spider-Man? Everyone knows Spider-Man," he told GQ.
Not only would the new Spider-Man have to be strong enough to carry Peter Parker's fabled story, but also stand alongside the Avengers in the expansive Marvel universe. Since Iron Man would have a close relationship with him, Downey Jr. helped cast Tom Holland, he told Jimmy Kimmel.
Robert Downey Jr. refers to Spider-Man as "the gold standard in the MCU," unlike his own comic book character. "Iron Man? Whatever. When I became Iron Man few had even heard of the character, ergo less pressure. But Spider-Man? Everyone knows Spider-Man," he told GQ.
Not only would the new Spider-Man have to be strong enough to carry Peter Parker's fabled story, but also stand alongside the Avengers in the expansive Marvel universe. Since Iron Man would have a close relationship with him, Downey Jr. helped cast Tom Holland, he told Jimmy Kimmel.
- 4/8/2023
- by Caroline Madden
- Slash Film
It looks like the play’s the (stranger) thing!
London’s Phoenix Theatre is planning to turn things Upside Down when it debuts “Stranger Things: The First Shadow,” a prequel theatrical experience tied to the runaway Netflix hit. The fifth and final season of the series begins production this May, and the new play will be up “later this year.”
The author is Kate Trefry, a staff writer, story editor, and co-executive producer on the series, credited as writer on three teleplays, one from the second, third, and fourth seasons. The prequel play is based on a story from Trefry and “Stranger Things” creators Matt and Ross Duffer, as well as Jack Thorne. Thorne is the writer behind Netflix’s hit “Enola Holmes,” but, more relevant to this endeavor, he is the author of “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child,” the two-part theatrical experience/license to print money with productions in London,...
London’s Phoenix Theatre is planning to turn things Upside Down when it debuts “Stranger Things: The First Shadow,” a prequel theatrical experience tied to the runaway Netflix hit. The fifth and final season of the series begins production this May, and the new play will be up “later this year.”
The author is Kate Trefry, a staff writer, story editor, and co-executive producer on the series, credited as writer on three teleplays, one from the second, third, and fourth seasons. The prequel play is based on a story from Trefry and “Stranger Things” creators Matt and Ross Duffer, as well as Jack Thorne. Thorne is the writer behind Netflix’s hit “Enola Holmes,” but, more relevant to this endeavor, he is the author of “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child,” the two-part theatrical experience/license to print money with productions in London,...
- 3/1/2023
- by Jordan Hoffman
- Gold Derby
Paul King, the director of the Paddington movies, is putting on his dancing shoes.
King has come aboard to direct Sony Pictures’ untitled Fred Astaire drama that has Tom Holland attached to star as the golden age film and dance star.
Amy Pascal, Rachael O’Conner, Ben Holden and Josh Hyams are producing.
Sony is keeping the logline details under the top hat, but it is known that the project centers on the relationship between Astaire and his sister, Adele Astaire. The two were inseparable for more than 20 years, moving out of a simple Midwestern vaudeville act in the early part of the 20th Century to Broadway and London’s West End in the 1920s. Adele Astaire was initially the face of the act, but eventually, Fred’s consummate stage skills eclipsed hers. The duo parted in 1932 when the sister married, which was a blow to Fred, but it also turned...
King has come aboard to direct Sony Pictures’ untitled Fred Astaire drama that has Tom Holland attached to star as the golden age film and dance star.
Amy Pascal, Rachael O’Conner, Ben Holden and Josh Hyams are producing.
Sony is keeping the logline details under the top hat, but it is known that the project centers on the relationship between Astaire and his sister, Adele Astaire. The two were inseparable for more than 20 years, moving out of a simple Midwestern vaudeville act in the early part of the 20th Century to Broadway and London’s West End in the 1920s. Adele Astaire was initially the face of the act, but eventually, Fred’s consummate stage skills eclipsed hers. The duo parted in 1932 when the sister married, which was a blow to Fred, but it also turned...
- 2/13/2023
- by Borys Kit
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Cinematographer who brought his imaginative sensibilities to films such as Trainspotting, Billy Elliot and Quadrophenia
The cultural aesthetic of the Britpop and New Labour years was shaped partly by the cinematographer Brian Tufano, who has died aged 83. In films such as Trainspotting (1996), East Is East (1999) and Billy Elliot (2000), he combined social realism and absurdist fantasy, smudging the joins between the two. A typical Tufano production, said the film-maker Saul Metzstein, had “technical polish and a cinematic ambition at odds with its financially modest status”.
He worked for the BBC throughout the 1960s and 70s with directors including Lindsay Anderson, Ken Russell, Stephen Frears, Mike Leigh and Ken Loach. But it was in his work with a younger generation in the 90s that his imaginative cinematic sensibility was most strongly felt. For Danny Boyle, with whom he had already made the BBC period drama series Mr Wroe’s Virgins (1993), he shot the...
The cultural aesthetic of the Britpop and New Labour years was shaped partly by the cinematographer Brian Tufano, who has died aged 83. In films such as Trainspotting (1996), East Is East (1999) and Billy Elliot (2000), he combined social realism and absurdist fantasy, smudging the joins between the two. A typical Tufano production, said the film-maker Saul Metzstein, had “technical polish and a cinematic ambition at odds with its financially modest status”.
He worked for the BBC throughout the 1960s and 70s with directors including Lindsay Anderson, Ken Russell, Stephen Frears, Mike Leigh and Ken Loach. But it was in his work with a younger generation in the 90s that his imaginative cinematic sensibility was most strongly felt. For Danny Boyle, with whom he had already made the BBC period drama series Mr Wroe’s Virgins (1993), he shot the...
- 1/26/2023
- by Ryan Gilbey
- The Guardian - Film News
Tufano’s credits include the seminal UK films ‘Trainspotting’, ‘Shallow Grave’ and ‘Billy Elliot’.
Brian Tufano, a legendary UK cinematographer whose works included Trainspotting and Billy Elliot, has died.
His career spanned over five decades, during which he nurtured the talents of numerous debut directors and was at the forefront of the boom of UK filmmaking of the 1990s.
Born in London in 1939, Tufano began working at the BBC’s Gainsborough Studios as a projectionist in 1956. He then worked as a projectionist at the BBC at Ealing Studios, where the film department was based, eventually working his way up from...
Brian Tufano, a legendary UK cinematographer whose works included Trainspotting and Billy Elliot, has died.
His career spanned over five decades, during which he nurtured the talents of numerous debut directors and was at the forefront of the boom of UK filmmaking of the 1990s.
Born in London in 1939, Tufano began working at the BBC’s Gainsborough Studios as a projectionist in 1956. He then worked as a projectionist at the BBC at Ealing Studios, where the film department was based, eventually working his way up from...
- 1/16/2023
- by Alex Rigotti
- ScreenDaily
Brian Tufano, the veteran British cinematographer who lensed films such as Trainspotting, Shallow Grave, and Billy Elliot, has died. He was 83.
Tufano’s agents at McKinney Macartney Management confirmed the news with Deadline. Jon Wardle, Director of the UK’s National Film and Television School, where Tufano was previously a department head, also shared a tribute to the cinematographer on Twitter.
Related Story Hollywood & Media Deaths In 2023: Photo Gallery & Obituaries Related Story Gina Lollobrigida Dies: Italian Cinema Diva Was 95 Related Story Al Brown Dies: Col. Stan Valchek On 'The Wire' Was 83
“Very sorry to have to share that Cinematography legend and former @NFTSFilmTV Head of Department Brian Tufano has died,” the Tweet read. “He shot so many amazing films and did so much to champion new talent, in particular female DPs. We loved him and will Really miss him.”
Very sorry to have to share that Cinematography...
Tufano’s agents at McKinney Macartney Management confirmed the news with Deadline. Jon Wardle, Director of the UK’s National Film and Television School, where Tufano was previously a department head, also shared a tribute to the cinematographer on Twitter.
Related Story Hollywood & Media Deaths In 2023: Photo Gallery & Obituaries Related Story Gina Lollobrigida Dies: Italian Cinema Diva Was 95 Related Story Al Brown Dies: Col. Stan Valchek On 'The Wire' Was 83
“Very sorry to have to share that Cinematography legend and former @NFTSFilmTV Head of Department Brian Tufano has died,” the Tweet read. “He shot so many amazing films and did so much to champion new talent, in particular female DPs. We loved him and will Really miss him.”
Very sorry to have to share that Cinematography...
- 1/16/2023
- by Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
Austin Butler’s screen acting career began 16 years ago, but, in many ways, he’s still just getting started. His breakthrough role as Elvis Presley in 2022’s “Elvis” has brought him some of his best notices yet, and he may now be on the precipice of a film industry awards season winning streak. This could include a Best Film Actor victory at the Screen Actors Guild Awards, which would be historic in that he would be the youngest man to ever take the prize.
At age 31, Butler is the youngest of Gold Derby’s five presently predicted Best Film Actor SAG Award nominees by a margin of 15 years. He ranks third on our list behind Brendan Fraser and Colin Farrell and ahead of Bill Nighy and Tom Cruise. The strongest contender who is younger than Butler is Jeremy Pope in seventh place, while our top 20 includes five more actors who...
At age 31, Butler is the youngest of Gold Derby’s five presently predicted Best Film Actor SAG Award nominees by a margin of 15 years. He ranks third on our list behind Brendan Fraser and Colin Farrell and ahead of Bill Nighy and Tom Cruise. The strongest contender who is younger than Butler is Jeremy Pope in seventh place, while our top 20 includes five more actors who...
- 1/10/2023
- by Matthew Stewart
- Gold Derby
Universal Pictures has been working on a feature film adaptation of the hit Broadway musical "Wicked" since 2004. At various points in time, people like J.J. Abrams, James Mangold, Ryan Murphy, and Rob Marshall were linked to the movie, but award-winning director Stephen Daldry of "Billy Elliot" and "The Crown" fame ended up in the director's chair in 2012. However, with plenty of false starts over the past 18 years, the filmmaker exited the Emerald City in 2020 over schedule conflicts. Finally, the ball officially got rolling on the "Wizard of Oz" reimagining in 2021 when "Crazy Rich Asians" and "In the Heights" director Jon M. Chu boarded the project.
Now, as the cast begins to take shape and prepares to ship off to dear old Shiz, let's take a look at everything we know so far about the highly anticipated movie musical about the gravity-defying witches of Oz.
When And Where To Watch Wicked...
Now, as the cast begins to take shape and prepares to ship off to dear old Shiz, let's take a look at everything we know so far about the highly anticipated movie musical about the gravity-defying witches of Oz.
When And Where To Watch Wicked...
- 12/10/2022
- by Ben F. Silverio
- Slash Film
“Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical,” based on the popular West End show and not the 1996 film with Mara Wilson, doesn’t sing and dance its way to Netflix until Christmastime. But already, one musical number — the foot-stomping anthem “Revolting Children” — has captivated the internet’s attention, much to the surprise of choreographer Ellen Kane.
“I know that dancing is popular on TikTok, but I didn’t really understand quite how popular,” she says from her home in London. But Kane, whose theater credits include “Legally Blonde,” “Billy Elliot” and “Groundhog Day,” is grateful, nonetheless. “It shows you the power of dancers.”
It’s not Matilda (played in the film by Alisha Weir), a young girl with awful parents and a powerfully vivid imagination, who has been commanding the digital limelight. The viral moment — inspiring interpretations from JoJo Siwa to Missy Elliot and possibly every TikToker on the planet — spotlights a student named Hortensia,...
“I know that dancing is popular on TikTok, but I didn’t really understand quite how popular,” she says from her home in London. But Kane, whose theater credits include “Legally Blonde,” “Billy Elliot” and “Groundhog Day,” is grateful, nonetheless. “It shows you the power of dancers.”
It’s not Matilda (played in the film by Alisha Weir), a young girl with awful parents and a powerfully vivid imagination, who has been commanding the digital limelight. The viral moment — inspiring interpretations from JoJo Siwa to Missy Elliot and possibly every TikToker on the planet — spotlights a student named Hortensia,...
- 12/8/2022
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
Julian Dennison and Minnie Driver lead cast.
Principal photography is underway on the coming-of-age film One Winter featuring a cast led by Julian Dennison and Minnie Driver. Blue Fox Entertainment will present first footage to buyers at the AFM.
Rhys Darby, James Rolleston and Erana James round out the key cast on the story set in Aotearoa, New Zealand, in 1981 as the arrival of the South African rugby team sets off nationwide protests against Apartheid.
Dennison plays Josh Waaka, a 17-year-old who after being a passive bystander all of his life, is suddenly forced to stand up for himself, his family and his future.
Principal photography is underway on the coming-of-age film One Winter featuring a cast led by Julian Dennison and Minnie Driver. Blue Fox Entertainment will present first footage to buyers at the AFM.
Rhys Darby, James Rolleston and Erana James round out the key cast on the story set in Aotearoa, New Zealand, in 1981 as the arrival of the South African rugby team sets off nationwide protests against Apartheid.
Dennison plays Josh Waaka, a 17-year-old who after being a passive bystander all of his life, is suddenly forced to stand up for himself, his family and his future.
- 10/13/2022
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Click here to read the full article.
Streamland Media is expanding its sound giant Formosa Group with the acquisition of London-based sound facility Sonorous Trident, founded by two-time Oscar-nominated Mike Prestwood Smith and nine-time Emmy nominated Howard Bargroff. With the deal, the pair and their team will become part of Formosa Group. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
The company will keep the Trident studio in Soho, London, which will use the new moniker Formosa Trident. This will be the seventh Formosa Group location in the UK.
Streamland, whose portfolio also includes the Picture Shop post business and Ghost VFX, has been on an acquisition streak. In 2021, Streamland purchased Technicolor Post for 36.5 million, as well as Sim Post for an undisclosed sum. Last month, it acquired visual effects business Ingenuity Studios.
Rerecording mixer Prestwood Smith was Oscar-nominated for Paul Greengrass’ News of the World and Captain Phillips, won a...
Streamland Media is expanding its sound giant Formosa Group with the acquisition of London-based sound facility Sonorous Trident, founded by two-time Oscar-nominated Mike Prestwood Smith and nine-time Emmy nominated Howard Bargroff. With the deal, the pair and their team will become part of Formosa Group. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
The company will keep the Trident studio in Soho, London, which will use the new moniker Formosa Trident. This will be the seventh Formosa Group location in the UK.
Streamland, whose portfolio also includes the Picture Shop post business and Ghost VFX, has been on an acquisition streak. In 2021, Streamland purchased Technicolor Post for 36.5 million, as well as Sim Post for an undisclosed sum. Last month, it acquired visual effects business Ingenuity Studios.
Rerecording mixer Prestwood Smith was Oscar-nominated for Paul Greengrass’ News of the World and Captain Phillips, won a...
- 8/18/2022
- by Carolyn Giardina
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
In British director Eddie Sternberg’s feature debut “I Used to Be Famous” – produced by Collie McCarthy at Forty Foot Pictures for Netflix – two sides of the music world clash with each other. Netflix released the trailer for the film Monday (below), and Variety has been given the first-look images, exclusively. The film is one of the first to come out of Netflix’s U.K. Original Slate, commissioned by Fiona Lamptey, director of U.K. features. It will be released in select U.K. theaters from Sept. 9, and on Netflix from Sept. 16.
Sternberg set out to create a film with “a British heart,” he says. “It is made in the vein of ‘The Full Monty,’ ‘Billy Elliot’ and ‘East Is East’ … that sort of heartfelt British film with a bit of grit, with earned heart that doesn’t become cheesy. It’s heartfelt rather than cheesy.” It is set in Peckham,...
Sternberg set out to create a film with “a British heart,” he says. “It is made in the vein of ‘The Full Monty,’ ‘Billy Elliot’ and ‘East Is East’ … that sort of heartfelt British film with a bit of grit, with earned heart that doesn’t become cheesy. It’s heartfelt rather than cheesy.” It is set in Peckham,...
- 8/15/2022
- by Leo Barraclough
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Lee Hall has signed with CAA for representation.
Hall is the screenwriter of such films as the Sir Elton John biopic Rocketman, as well as Victoria & Abdul, War Horse and Billy Elliot, the latter of which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay.
He also wrote the stage adaptation of Billy Elliot, which won 10 Tony Awards, including Best Musical and Best Book, and four Olivier Awards. In addition, he wrote the musical adaptation of Pink Floyd’s The Wall.
In 2017, his adaptation of Network starred Bryan Cranston was performed on the West End and Broadway, and received an Olivier nomination for Best Play. His play The Pitmen Painters won the Evening Standard Award in 2008.
Hall continues to be represented by Judy Daish at Judy Daish Associates Ltd, and his attorney is Gretchen Bruggeman Rush at Hansen, Jacobson.
Hall is the screenwriter of such films as the Sir Elton John biopic Rocketman, as well as Victoria & Abdul, War Horse and Billy Elliot, the latter of which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay.
He also wrote the stage adaptation of Billy Elliot, which won 10 Tony Awards, including Best Musical and Best Book, and four Olivier Awards. In addition, he wrote the musical adaptation of Pink Floyd’s The Wall.
In 2017, his adaptation of Network starred Bryan Cranston was performed on the West End and Broadway, and received an Olivier nomination for Best Play. His play The Pitmen Painters won the Evening Standard Award in 2008.
Hall continues to be represented by Judy Daish at Judy Daish Associates Ltd, and his attorney is Gretchen Bruggeman Rush at Hansen, Jacobson.
- 7/25/2022
- by Lynette Rice
- Deadline Film + TV
The Upside Down is taking over.
The Duffer Brothers announced new production company Upside Down Pictures, with a slew of projects in the works including the “Stranger Things” spinoff and an upcoming stage play adaptation of the series.
According to The Duffer Brothers, Upside Down Pictures will “aim to create the kind of stories that inspired the Duffers growing up, stories that take place at that beautiful crossroads where the ordinary meets the extraordinary, where big spectacle co-exists with intimate character work, where heart wins out over cynicism.”
Upside Down Pictures will be run by Hilary Leavitt and produce film and television projects as part of the overall deal with Netflix.
The “Stranger Things” stage play will be set within the world and mythology of the record-breaking Netflix series and will be produced by prolific and multi-award-winning producers Sonia Friedman, Stephen Daldry, and Netflix. Daldry will also direct. 21 Laps serves as Associate Producer.
The Duffer Brothers announced new production company Upside Down Pictures, with a slew of projects in the works including the “Stranger Things” spinoff and an upcoming stage play adaptation of the series.
According to The Duffer Brothers, Upside Down Pictures will “aim to create the kind of stories that inspired the Duffers growing up, stories that take place at that beautiful crossroads where the ordinary meets the extraordinary, where big spectacle co-exists with intimate character work, where heart wins out over cynicism.”
Upside Down Pictures will be run by Hilary Leavitt and produce film and television projects as part of the overall deal with Netflix.
The “Stranger Things” stage play will be set within the world and mythology of the record-breaking Netflix series and will be produced by prolific and multi-award-winning producers Sonia Friedman, Stephen Daldry, and Netflix. Daldry will also direct. 21 Laps serves as Associate Producer.
- 7/6/2022
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Stranger Things creators Matt and Ross Duffer — known as the Duffer Brothers — are developing a new stage play set within the world of their hit Netflix series.
The only details released about the play were that it would be “set within the world and mythology of Stranger Things,” and that it will be co-produced and directed by film and theatrical director Stephen Daldry. Daldry received Oscar nominations for directing Billy Elliot, The Hours, and The Reader; he’s also won three Tonys for theatrical directing, first for the 1994 play An Inspector Calls,...
The only details released about the play were that it would be “set within the world and mythology of Stranger Things,” and that it will be co-produced and directed by film and theatrical director Stephen Daldry. Daldry received Oscar nominations for directing Billy Elliot, The Hours, and The Reader; he’s also won three Tonys for theatrical directing, first for the 1994 play An Inspector Calls,...
- 7/6/2022
- by Jon Blistein
- Rollingstone.com
Myles Frost became the latest addition to the list of people who have taken home a Tony Award for their Broadway debut. His win makes him the 98th member of this particular winners’ club.
Frost, who won Best Actor in a Musical for playing Michael Jackson in “Mj,” is the 13th person to win that category for their first time stepping into a character on a Broadway stage. He joins:
Ezio Pinza, “South Pacific” (1950)
Robert Alda, “Guys and Dolls” (1951)
Robert Lindsay, “Me and My Girl” (1987)
Brent Carver, “Kiss of the Spider Woman” (1993)
Alan Cumming, “Cabaret” (1998)
Hugh Jackman, “The Boy From Oz” (2004)
John Lloyd Young, “Jersey Boys” (2006)
Paulo Szot, “South Pacific” (2008)
David Álvarez, Trent Kowalik and Kiril Kulish (joint nomination), “Billy Elliot” (2009)
Douglas Hodge, “La Cage aux Folles” (2010)
See 2022 Tony Awards: Every winner (and nominee) in all 26 categories
Below are the Broadway debuts in the seven other acting categories that have...
Frost, who won Best Actor in a Musical for playing Michael Jackson in “Mj,” is the 13th person to win that category for their first time stepping into a character on a Broadway stage. He joins:
Ezio Pinza, “South Pacific” (1950)
Robert Alda, “Guys and Dolls” (1951)
Robert Lindsay, “Me and My Girl” (1987)
Brent Carver, “Kiss of the Spider Woman” (1993)
Alan Cumming, “Cabaret” (1998)
Hugh Jackman, “The Boy From Oz” (2004)
John Lloyd Young, “Jersey Boys” (2006)
Paulo Szot, “South Pacific” (2008)
David Álvarez, Trent Kowalik and Kiril Kulish (joint nomination), “Billy Elliot” (2009)
Douglas Hodge, “La Cage aux Folles” (2010)
See 2022 Tony Awards: Every winner (and nominee) in all 26 categories
Below are the Broadway debuts in the seven other acting categories that have...
- 6/13/2022
- by Charles Bright
- Gold Derby
You may know Jamie Bell as the good-natured protagonist from Spielberg's "The Adventure of Tintin," the hero of the AMC series "Turn: Washington's Spies," or as the title character in "Billy Elliot." But in the new Apple TV+ mystery series "Shining Girls," Bell swings to the complete other end of the spectrum to play a creepy serial killer harboring a secret: He's seemingly able to exist across time without aging. What on earth is going on with this guy?
The show does eventually provide some clarity about Bell's character, Harper. But for several episodes, the audience is left in the dark about his methods and motivations....
The post Shining Girls Actor Jamie Bell on Getting Into the Head of a Serial Killer [Interview] appeared first on /Film.
The show does eventually provide some clarity about Bell's character, Harper. But for several episodes, the audience is left in the dark about his methods and motivations....
The post Shining Girls Actor Jamie Bell on Getting Into the Head of a Serial Killer [Interview] appeared first on /Film.
- 4/29/2022
- by Ben Pearson
- Slash Film
“Ticket to Paradise,” a forthcoming romantic comedy starring Julia Roberts and George Clooney is exactly the type of movie people always talk about missing. The cross-generational, Bali-set romp is for grown-ups, it isn’t based on anything, and its budget at least could be small.
In an effort to get audiences to recognize just how big a deal this thing is, Roberts is banging the drum well in advance of its late October (New York Film Festival?) release. Speaking with The New York Times to promote her new Starz series “Gaslit,” she said that she hasn’t been avoiding rom-coms for 20 years, it’s just that there haven’t been any offers.
“If I had read something that I thought was that ‘Notting Hill’ level of writing or ‘My Best Friend’s Wedding’ level of madcap fun, I would do it,” she said. “Ticket To Paradise,” written and directed by Ol Parker,...
In an effort to get audiences to recognize just how big a deal this thing is, Roberts is banging the drum well in advance of its late October (New York Film Festival?) release. Speaking with The New York Times to promote her new Starz series “Gaslit,” she said that she hasn’t been avoiding rom-coms for 20 years, it’s just that there haven’t been any offers.
“If I had read something that I thought was that ‘Notting Hill’ level of writing or ‘My Best Friend’s Wedding’ level of madcap fun, I would do it,” she said. “Ticket To Paradise,” written and directed by Ol Parker,...
- 4/19/2022
- by Jordan Hoffman
- Gold Derby
What hooks and disarms audiences minutes after clicking play on “Better Nate Than Ever” is its infectious energy. George Benson’s funk cover of “On Broadway,” used decades earlier in “All That Jazz,” makes for a lively introduction to a spirited, small-statured youth’s big personality. Writer-director Tim Federle welcomes us into this world with the tantalizing promise of major things to come in a semi-biographical tale of an underdog chasing his dream of becoming a Broadway sensation. But before that can happen, a series of hapless, comedic misadventures has to occur. Funny, vibrant, yet schmaltzy to a fault, this Disney Plus family film can carry a tune, but falters in crafting a runaway hit.
Thirteen-year-old Nate (Rueby Wood) loves musicals. That much is clear from the “Music Man” and “Redhead” posters that line the walls of his bedroom and the “Wicked” references he drops in casual conversations with cool-tempered...
Thirteen-year-old Nate (Rueby Wood) loves musicals. That much is clear from the “Music Man” and “Redhead” posters that line the walls of his bedroom and the “Wicked” references he drops in casual conversations with cool-tempered...
- 3/29/2022
- by Courtney Howard
- Variety Film + TV
“Steven had said that he wasn’t going to make the film if he couldn’t cast it correctly.”
Thus, explains casting director Cindy Tolan, assembling the perfect ensemble was of existential importance to Spielberg’s revisited “West Side Story.” The goal was to capture all the charisma of the beloved 1961 original, while avoiding its much-criticized, inauthentic approach to ethnicity.
“I looked to my office and I said, ‘We are not going to be the reason this film does not get made.’” An early, viral social media posting kicked off an 18-month worldwide search, involving open calls and appointments from the U.S. to Puerto Rico and Australia.
All told, she claims, “we saw 30,000 humans,” and in no sense did any have to be professionals or even trained. What they had to be was “quadruple threats: They had to sing, dance and act. And the camera had to like them.
Thus, explains casting director Cindy Tolan, assembling the perfect ensemble was of existential importance to Spielberg’s revisited “West Side Story.” The goal was to capture all the charisma of the beloved 1961 original, while avoiding its much-criticized, inauthentic approach to ethnicity.
“I looked to my office and I said, ‘We are not going to be the reason this film does not get made.’” An early, viral social media posting kicked off an 18-month worldwide search, involving open calls and appointments from the U.S. to Puerto Rico and Australia.
All told, she claims, “we saw 30,000 humans,” and in no sense did any have to be professionals or even trained. What they had to be was “quadruple threats: They had to sing, dance and act. And the camera had to like them.
- 3/17/2022
- by Bob Verini
- Variety Film + TV
Karla Souza and Dani Rovira, two of the foremost Hispanic actors with comedic chops, have joined the upcoming musical comedy, “Voy a pasarmelo bien” (“I’m Going to Have a Good Time”), produced by Sony Pictures International Productions (Spip), El Estudio and Spanish pop-rock band, Hombres G.
Mexico City-born Souza has starred in three of Mexico’s top-grossing pics: “Nosotros Los Nobles,” “Instructions Not Included” and “Que Culpa Tiene el Niño.” Her TV credits include ABC comedy series “Home Economics” and “How to Get Away with Murder.”
Spanish actor-comic Rovira made his big screen debut with Spanish blockbuster comedy “Spanish Affair” and has starred in the 2018 Spip romcom “Miamor Perdido,” among others.
The film is inspired by the music of the iconic band Hombres G, which rose to prominence in the ‘80s with their Beatles and British new wave-influenced music. Based in Madrid, Hombres G have published 12 studio albums to...
Mexico City-born Souza has starred in three of Mexico’s top-grossing pics: “Nosotros Los Nobles,” “Instructions Not Included” and “Que Culpa Tiene el Niño.” Her TV credits include ABC comedy series “Home Economics” and “How to Get Away with Murder.”
Spanish actor-comic Rovira made his big screen debut with Spanish blockbuster comedy “Spanish Affair” and has starred in the 2018 Spip romcom “Miamor Perdido,” among others.
The film is inspired by the music of the iconic band Hombres G, which rose to prominence in the ‘80s with their Beatles and British new wave-influenced music. Based in Madrid, Hombres G have published 12 studio albums to...
- 2/28/2022
- by Anna Marie de la Fuente
- Variety Film + TV
DeathThe singer-composer, a familiar figure for many with his trademark gold chains that he wore for luck and his sunglasses, was known for his songs in several films of the late 70s-80s.Tnm StaffImage: Facebook/Bappi LahiriSinger-composer Bappi Lahiri, who popularised disco music in India in the 80s and 90s, has died following multiple health issues, a doctor treating him said on Wednesday, February 16. He was 69 years old. Doctors said that Lahiri died late on Tuesday, February 15, at the CritiCare Hospital in Juhu. "Lahiri had been admitted to the hospital for a month and was discharged on Monday. But his health deteriorated on Tuesday and his family called for a doctor to visit their home. He was brought to the hospital. He had multiple health issues. He died due to Osa (obstructive sleep apnea) shortly before midnight," Dr Deepak Namjoshi, director of the hospital, told Pti. The singer-composer, a...
- 2/16/2022
- by BNitin
- The News Minute
Stephane Celerier, a veteran French film executive whose former banner Mars Films co-produced “La Famille Belier,” is joining forces with Pgs Entertainment to create a new production company.
Celerier is launching Gemma Pictures with Philippe and Guillaume Souter, the founders of Pgs Entertainment, a thriving family-owned business specialized in financing and licensing worldwide youth entertainment.
The new Paris-based company will look to produce French and English-language films, TV series and TV movies and is already developing a slate of 10 projects with well-known French and international talent. A resourceful and deep-pocketed company, Pgs Entertainment will fully finance the development of Gemma Pictures’ roster over the next three years and will handle the back office, while giving Celerier the full reins of the company.
One of France’s most respected and passionate industry figures, Celerier acquired and distributed locally a flurry of critically-acclaimed U.K. and U.S. movies, including “Billy Elliot,...
Celerier is launching Gemma Pictures with Philippe and Guillaume Souter, the founders of Pgs Entertainment, a thriving family-owned business specialized in financing and licensing worldwide youth entertainment.
The new Paris-based company will look to produce French and English-language films, TV series and TV movies and is already developing a slate of 10 projects with well-known French and international talent. A resourceful and deep-pocketed company, Pgs Entertainment will fully finance the development of Gemma Pictures’ roster over the next three years and will handle the back office, while giving Celerier the full reins of the company.
One of France’s most respected and passionate industry figures, Celerier acquired and distributed locally a flurry of critically-acclaimed U.K. and U.S. movies, including “Billy Elliot,...
- 2/15/2022
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Welcome to Deadline’s International Disruptors, a feature where we shine a spotlight on key executives and companies outside of the U.S. shaking up the offshore marketplace. This week, we’re talking to Gianluca Chakra, founder and managing director of pan-Arab distribution outfit Front Row Filmed Entertainment. The company, which was founded from humble beginnings in 2003, is now one of the most prominent companies in the Middle East and recently launched its first production with Netflix, Perfect Strangers.
It’s been an auspicious start to the year for Gianluca Chakra’s pan-Arab outfit Front Row Filmed Entertainment. The company, which has long been at the forefront of distributing top-shelf independent cinema to the Middle East region, kicked off 2022 with its first production Perfect Strangers, the latest international remake of 2016 Italian hit Perfetti Sconosciuti. Netflix boarded the project last year after signing a first-look deal with Front Row, marking the...
It’s been an auspicious start to the year for Gianluca Chakra’s pan-Arab outfit Front Row Filmed Entertainment. The company, which has long been at the forefront of distributing top-shelf independent cinema to the Middle East region, kicked off 2022 with its first production Perfect Strangers, the latest international remake of 2016 Italian hit Perfetti Sconosciuti. Netflix boarded the project last year after signing a first-look deal with Front Row, marking the...
- 2/9/2022
- by Diana Lodderhose
- Deadline Film + TV
Adam Driver may be the most notable former Marine to earn an Oscar nomination, but David Alvarez could be the first Tony winner turned infantryman to nab one. In Steven Spielberg’s revelatory remake of “West Side Story,” a production that both makes a case for itself while honoring the achievements of its predecessor, the actor and dancer brings renewed life to the character of Bernardo. Trained as a ballet dancer before becoming one of the youngest people to win a Best Actor Tony for his performance in “Billy Elliot the Musical” on Broadway, Alvarez had all but left show business when he got the call to audition for Bernardo.
After seeing the 2009 Broadway revival, which was directed by Arthur Laurents and featured translated Spanish lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, he had dreamed of doing the show. “I was so in love with the sound, the music, the characters, and the Shakespearean essence to it.
After seeing the 2009 Broadway revival, which was directed by Arthur Laurents and featured translated Spanish lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, he had dreamed of doing the show. “I was so in love with the sound, the music, the characters, and the Shakespearean essence to it.
- 1/7/2022
- by Jude Dry
- Indiewire
Sony Pictures International Prods, El Estudio Set Hombres G Film, ‘Voy a Pasarmelo Bien’ (Exclusive)
Tapping a widely successful genre, Sony Pictures Int’l Productions (Spip) is producing the musical romantic comedy “Voy a pasarmelo bien” (“I’m Going to Have A Good Time”) in association with transatlantic production powerhouse, El Estudio and Spanish pop rock band Hombres G.
The film is inspired by the music of the iconic band which rose to prominence in the ‘80s with their Beatles and British new wave-influenced music.
Based in Madrid, Hombres G is formed by David Summers, Dani Mezquita, Rafa Gutiérrez and Javi Molina who have published 12 studio albums to date and sold more than 20 million records internationally. Among their multiple achievements are an Honorary Grammy Award from the Latin Recording Academy and Spain’s Gold Medal to the Fine Arts.
Spip has also acquired the worldwide distribution rights, with Sony Pictures Entertainment Iberia to release the film theatrically in Spain in 2022.
In addition, Spip licensed the film’s U.
The film is inspired by the music of the iconic band which rose to prominence in the ‘80s with their Beatles and British new wave-influenced music.
Based in Madrid, Hombres G is formed by David Summers, Dani Mezquita, Rafa Gutiérrez and Javi Molina who have published 12 studio albums to date and sold more than 20 million records internationally. Among their multiple achievements are an Honorary Grammy Award from the Latin Recording Academy and Spain’s Gold Medal to the Fine Arts.
Spip has also acquired the worldwide distribution rights, with Sony Pictures Entertainment Iberia to release the film theatrically in Spain in 2022.
In addition, Spip licensed the film’s U.
- 11/30/2021
- by Anna Marie de la Fuente
- Variety Film + TV
“Belfast” is coming on strong as one of the leading awards contenders of the year, with many prognosticators expecting it to show up in categories like Best Picture, Best Director and the acting categories. Four actors from the Kenneth Branagh-directed film are expected to be in play — Caitriona Balfe, Judi Dench, Jamie Dornan and Ciarán Hinds — all in the supporting categories. But what will become of the film’s star, Jude Hill? The 11-year-old actor is the only one being pushed for a lead acting nomination and while he isn’t quite in people’s predictions yet, one organization that could give him a major boost is the Screen Actors Guild Awards.
The SAG Awards have traditionally been very favorable to child actors, even when they don’t end up landing Oscar nominations in the end. Examples include Jamie Bell for “Billy Elliot” (2000), Dakota Fanning for “I Am Sam...
The SAG Awards have traditionally been very favorable to child actors, even when they don’t end up landing Oscar nominations in the end. Examples include Jamie Bell for “Billy Elliot” (2000), Dakota Fanning for “I Am Sam...
- 10/27/2021
- by Kevin Jacobsen
- Gold Derby
The lives and epic love story of rocker Ozzy Osbourne and manager and personality Sharon Osbourne will be the subject of an upcoming feature film.
The untitled project comes from Polygram Entertainment, and will follow a biopic format centering on their decades-long bond — one that exploded to the heights of pop culture with the flagship MTV reality series “The Osbournes.” Oscar nominee Lee Hall (“Billy Elliot”) is scripting the project.
“Our relationship at times was often wild, insane and dangerous but it was our undying love that kept us together,” said Sharon Osbourne. “We’re thrilled to partner with Sony Pictures and Polygram to bring our story to the screen.”
Sharon and her kids Jack Osborune and Aimée Osbourne are producing via their label Osbourne Media, with Michele Anthony and David Blackman on behalf of Polygram Entertainment. Andrea Giannetti is overseeing development for Sony.
Music will obviously play a large role in the film,...
The untitled project comes from Polygram Entertainment, and will follow a biopic format centering on their decades-long bond — one that exploded to the heights of pop culture with the flagship MTV reality series “The Osbournes.” Oscar nominee Lee Hall (“Billy Elliot”) is scripting the project.
“Our relationship at times was often wild, insane and dangerous but it was our undying love that kept us together,” said Sharon Osbourne. “We’re thrilled to partner with Sony Pictures and Polygram to bring our story to the screen.”
Sharon and her kids Jack Osborune and Aimée Osbourne are producing via their label Osbourne Media, with Michele Anthony and David Blackman on behalf of Polygram Entertainment. Andrea Giannetti is overseeing development for Sony.
Music will obviously play a large role in the film,...
- 10/21/2021
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
The controversial and contentious experiment where Warner Bros. has debuted its 2021 slate of feature films on HBO Max will hit a crescendo in October thanks to the releases of “The Many Saints of Newark” and “Dune” on the streaming platform. Both “Many Saints” producer and co-writer David Chase and “Dune” filmmaker Denis Villeneuve have criticized the corporate decision to release films day-and-date in theaters and via HBO Max, but despite the outcry, the two highly anticipated features lead a massive lineup of acclaimed library movie titles and Emmy Award-winning original series coming to the network in October 2021. Highlights include:
“Curb Your Enthusiasm” (October): Larry David’s Emmy Award-winning series returns for its 11th season in October and will tackle the coronavirus pandemic in a way that feels organic to the show and its protagonist. “We figured out a way that we are definitely living in a reality where the pandemic has happened,...
“Curb Your Enthusiasm” (October): Larry David’s Emmy Award-winning series returns for its 11th season in October and will tackle the coronavirus pandemic in a way that feels organic to the show and its protagonist. “We figured out a way that we are definitely living in a reality where the pandemic has happened,...
- 9/24/2021
- by Christopher Rosen
- Gold Derby
Fox has lately made its name, and its success, on televised music competitions — everything from “The Masked Singer” and “Dancer” franchises to a revived “Name That Tune” to the amiably strange “I Can See Your Voice.” And so it makes a certain kind of sense that this fall, it launches a new scripted series about … the inner workings of a reality-tv contest.
On “The Big Leap,” various Detroit residents are wooed by a series of the same name, one that aims to find the cast for a televised reimagining of “Swan Lake.” These folks are not necessarily trained ballerinas, just people who have something inside to get out. That “The Big Leap” follows the story of a reality show makes its storytelling economical — we see the big themes of these characters’ lives easily in part because a near-omnipotent producer (Scott Foley) points them out.
This show parcels out its emotionality...
On “The Big Leap,” various Detroit residents are wooed by a series of the same name, one that aims to find the cast for a televised reimagining of “Swan Lake.” These folks are not necessarily trained ballerinas, just people who have something inside to get out. That “The Big Leap” follows the story of a reality show makes its storytelling economical — we see the big themes of these characters’ lives easily in part because a near-omnipotent producer (Scott Foley) points them out.
This show parcels out its emotionality...
- 9/20/2021
- by Daniel D'Addario
- Variety Film + TV
A 50th anniversary edition of David Crosby’s 1971 solo debut If I Could Only Remember My Name is being released on October 15th. It features a remastered version of the original LP and a bonus disc packed with previously-released demos, outtakes, and alternate takes from the album sessions. There will also be a 180-gram vinyl edition. Check out the previously-unheard track “Riff 1” right here.
If I Could Only Remember My Name was recorded throughout 1970 and early 1971 as Crosby was dealing with the shocking death of girlfriend Christine Hinton, and the overwhelming success of Csn/Csny.
If I Could Only Remember My Name was recorded throughout 1970 and early 1971 as Crosby was dealing with the shocking death of girlfriend Christine Hinton, and the overwhelming success of Csn/Csny.
- 9/2/2021
- by Andy Greene
- Rollingstone.com
In Stephen Daldry’s latest, the “Billy Elliot” director tackles life in quarantine and the rhythms of lockdown during Covid-19 with “Together.” The film is immediately bolstered by clever and enlightening dialogue and committed and passionate performances from Sharon Horgan and James McAvoy. The two play a couple who have been together for over a decade but have only remained in a quasi-relationship for the sake of their son.
Continue reading ‘Together’: James McAvoy & Sharon Horgan Talk About The Difficulties Of Marriage & Love In Lockdown In Stephen Daldry’s Latest [Interview] at The Playlist.
Continue reading ‘Together’: James McAvoy & Sharon Horgan Talk About The Difficulties Of Marriage & Love In Lockdown In Stephen Daldry’s Latest [Interview] at The Playlist.
- 8/27/2021
- by Ally Johnson
- The Playlist
The past year and a half has been hard on ever couple, but it was especially hard on the husband and wife in Stephen Daldry’s BBC drama film “Together.” Shot in just 10 days during lockdown this past spring, the film stars UK favorites James McAvoy and Sharon Horgan as a married couple in crisis, and stuck in their apartment. After premiering earlier this year overseas, the film finally gets a stateside theatrical release from Bleecker Street Films on August 27. Check out the trailer below.
Written by celebrated British screen scribe and playwright Dennis Kelly, the film “is the story of a family, like so many, who found a way to survive — together. This hilarious and heartbreaking story intimately shows two partners forced to re-evaluate themselves and their relationship through the reality of lockdown,” according to the official synopsis.
Horgan is beloved for her work in front of the camera...
Written by celebrated British screen scribe and playwright Dennis Kelly, the film “is the story of a family, like so many, who found a way to survive — together. This hilarious and heartbreaking story intimately shows two partners forced to re-evaluate themselves and their relationship through the reality of lockdown,” according to the official synopsis.
Horgan is beloved for her work in front of the camera...
- 8/2/2021
- by Ryan Lattanzio
- Indiewire
“Together,” a new comedy from “Billy Elliot” director Stephen Daldry, will be distributed by Bleecker Street after the indie studio secured North American rights to the film.
“Together” stars James McAvoy (“Wanted”) and Sharon Horgan (“Catastrophe”). The film follows two partners who are forced to re-evaluate themselves and their relationship during lockdown, an experience that should resonate with moviegoers still shaking off the linger effects of Covid-era quarantine.
“Stephen Daldry has brought together two of the most engaging performers to bring to life the story of a family going through what we all went through over the last year,” said Andrew Karpen, CEO of Bleecker Street. “The biting comedy, the never-ending uncertainty and the intense frustration of being stuck in quarantine are at the heart of Daldry’s finely attuned film about the complexity and importance of human connections.”
“Together” was written by Dennis Kelly. The film is a BBC...
“Together” stars James McAvoy (“Wanted”) and Sharon Horgan (“Catastrophe”). The film follows two partners who are forced to re-evaluate themselves and their relationship during lockdown, an experience that should resonate with moviegoers still shaking off the linger effects of Covid-era quarantine.
“Stephen Daldry has brought together two of the most engaging performers to bring to life the story of a family going through what we all went through over the last year,” said Andrew Karpen, CEO of Bleecker Street. “The biting comedy, the never-ending uncertainty and the intense frustration of being stuck in quarantine are at the heart of Daldry’s finely attuned film about the complexity and importance of human connections.”
“Together” was written by Dennis Kelly. The film is a BBC...
- 7/1/2021
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
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