Water for Elephants, an extravagant circus-meets-musical, premiered at Broadway’s Imperial Theatre. This production, a collaboration between Rick Elice, who wrote the book, and PigPen Theatre Co., which was responsible for the score, marks the impressive Broadway debut.
Adapted from Sara Gruen‘s novel, Water for Elephants follows the story of Jacob Jankowski (played by Gregg Edelman), a retired veterinarian drawn to the circus. As the crew dismantles the set, Jacob lingers, and quizzical workers discover that he found his purpose at the circus after he fled his final exams at Cornell.
Grant Gustin portrays the younger Jacob, who, amid the Great Depression, hops aboard a train with the Benzini Brothers Most Spectacular Show on Earth. The Benzinis faced financial ruin in 1929, and their new owner, August Rachinger (Paul Alexander Nolan), is yet to redefine the circus’s identity. Initially, August contemplates whether or not to throw Jacob off the train,...
Adapted from Sara Gruen‘s novel, Water for Elephants follows the story of Jacob Jankowski (played by Gregg Edelman), a retired veterinarian drawn to the circus. As the crew dismantles the set, Jacob lingers, and quizzical workers discover that he found his purpose at the circus after he fled his final exams at Cornell.
Grant Gustin portrays the younger Jacob, who, amid the Great Depression, hops aboard a train with the Benzini Brothers Most Spectacular Show on Earth. The Benzinis faced financial ruin in 1929, and their new owner, August Rachinger (Paul Alexander Nolan), is yet to redefine the circus’s identity. Initially, August contemplates whether or not to throw Jacob off the train,...
- 3/29/2024
- by Baila Eve Zisman
- Uinterview
Grant Gustin is officially a Broadway star!
The 34-year-old The Flash and Glee actor celebrated the opening night of his new musical Water for Elephants on Thursday (March 21) at the Imperial Theatre in New York City.
Grant was joined on the red carpet by his co-stars Isabelle McCalla, Gregg Edelman, Paul Alexander Nolan, Joe De Paul, Sara Gettelfinger, Stan Brown, and Wade McCollum.
Grant is playing the role of Jacob Jankowski in the stage adaptation of the beloved novel by Sara Gruen. Robert Pattinson played the role in the film adaptation back in 2011.
Here’s the synopsis: After losing what matters most, a young man jumps a moving train unsure of where the road will take him and finds a new home with the remarkable crew of a traveling circus, and a life—and love—beyond his wildest dreams. Seen through the eyes of his older self, his adventure becomes...
The 34-year-old The Flash and Glee actor celebrated the opening night of his new musical Water for Elephants on Thursday (March 21) at the Imperial Theatre in New York City.
Grant was joined on the red carpet by his co-stars Isabelle McCalla, Gregg Edelman, Paul Alexander Nolan, Joe De Paul, Sara Gettelfinger, Stan Brown, and Wade McCollum.
Grant is playing the role of Jacob Jankowski in the stage adaptation of the beloved novel by Sara Gruen. Robert Pattinson played the role in the film adaptation back in 2011.
Here’s the synopsis: After losing what matters most, a young man jumps a moving train unsure of where the road will take him and finds a new home with the remarkable crew of a traveling circus, and a life—and love—beyond his wildest dreams. Seen through the eyes of his older self, his adventure becomes...
- 3/26/2024
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
Grant Gustin is making his Broadway debut in the new musical Water for Elephants and the first photos have been released!
The 34-year-old actor, who is currently expecting his second child, is playing the role of Jacob Jankowski in the stage adaptation of the beloved novel by Sara Gruen. Robert Pattinson played the role in the film adaptation back in 2011.
Here’s the synopsis: After losing what matters most, a young man jumps a moving train unsure of where the road will take him and finds a new home with the remarkable crew of a traveling circus, and a life—and love—beyond his wildest dreams. Seen through the eyes of his older self, his adventure becomes a poignant reminder that if you choose the ride, life can begin again at any age.
Also starring in the musical are Isabelle McCalla, Gregg Edelman, and Paul Alexander Nolan.
Water for Elephants...
The 34-year-old actor, who is currently expecting his second child, is playing the role of Jacob Jankowski in the stage adaptation of the beloved novel by Sara Gruen. Robert Pattinson played the role in the film adaptation back in 2011.
Here’s the synopsis: After losing what matters most, a young man jumps a moving train unsure of where the road will take him and finds a new home with the remarkable crew of a traveling circus, and a life—and love—beyond his wildest dreams. Seen through the eyes of his older self, his adventure becomes a poignant reminder that if you choose the ride, life can begin again at any age.
Also starring in the musical are Isabelle McCalla, Gregg Edelman, and Paul Alexander Nolan.
Water for Elephants...
- 3/8/2024
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
Grant Gustin is heading to Broadway!
The 33-year-old actor, known for his starring role in The Flash and his appearance as Sebastian Smythe on Glee, landed the lead role in the new Broadway production of Water for Elephants, which was originally announced all the way back in 2015.
He’s set to portray Jacob in the project, and several other cast members have been revealed.
Read more about Grant Gustin’s Broadway debut…
Grant will share the stage with Isabelle McCalla, who will bring Marlena to life. If you forgot, Water for Elephants is based on the novel of the same name from Sara Gruen.
Speaking to EW, the actor made it clear that he was thrilled to head to the stage.
“This was my original dream as a kid,” he gushed. “I started tap dancing first as an 8-year-old and then theater at 10, and this is where I always wanted to be.
The 33-year-old actor, known for his starring role in The Flash and his appearance as Sebastian Smythe on Glee, landed the lead role in the new Broadway production of Water for Elephants, which was originally announced all the way back in 2015.
He’s set to portray Jacob in the project, and several other cast members have been revealed.
Read more about Grant Gustin’s Broadway debut…
Grant will share the stage with Isabelle McCalla, who will bring Marlena to life. If you forgot, Water for Elephants is based on the novel of the same name from Sara Gruen.
Speaking to EW, the actor made it clear that he was thrilled to head to the stage.
“This was my original dream as a kid,” he gushed. “I started tap dancing first as an 8-year-old and then theater at 10, and this is where I always wanted to be.
- 11/3/2023
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
Grant Gustin, longtime star of the CW’s The Flash, will make his Broadway debut in the new musical Water for Elephants, producers announced today.
Gustin, who also appeared in the TV series Glee, will portray main character Jacob Jankowski in a cast that also includes Isabelle McCalla, Gregg Edelman (City of Angels), Paul Alexander Nolan (Slave Play), Stan Brown (Homicide: Life on the Street), Joe De Paul (Cirque du Soleil’s Dralion), Sara Gettelfinger (Dirty Rotten Scoundrels) and Wade McCollum (Wicked).
Watch Gustin and McCalla perform the song “Wild” from Water for Elephants in the newly released video above.
The musical, based on the Sara Gruen 2006 novel that was made into a 2011 film that starred Robert Pattinson in the Jacob role, begins previews on Saturday, February 24, at Broadway’s Imperial Theatre. Opening night is Thursday, March 21.
Water For Elephants features a book by Rick Elice and a score by PigPen Theatre Company (The Tale of Despereaux). Jessica Stone (Kimberly Akimbo) directs.
Alliance Theatre production of ‘Water for Elephants’
The casting was announced today by producers Peter Schneider, Jennifer Costello, Grove Entertainment, Frank Marshall, Isaac Robert Hurwitz, and Seth A. Goldstein. Additional casting to be announced soon.
The synopsis: “After losing what matters most, a young man jumps a moving train unsure of where the road will take him and finds a new home with the remarkable crew of a traveling circus, and a life – and love – beyond his wildest dreams. Seen through the eyes of his older self, his adventure becomes a poignant reminder that if you choose the ride, life can begin again at any age.”
Gustin’s stage credits include a touring production of West Side Story. He joined the cast of Glee in the musical series’ third season, portraying Sebastian Smythe, the lead of Dalton Academy’s singing group the Warblers. Film credits include Krystal and Affluenza. He’s played The Flash‘s Barry Allen since the series debut in 2014 and continued through its final episode in May of this year. He also made several crossover appearances on Arrow, Legends of Tomorrow and Supergirl.
McCalla is currently starring as Maizy in Shucked on Broadway, and she originated the role of Alyssa Greene in The Prom and played Princess Jasmine in Aladdin both on Broadway and the North American Tour. She originated the role of Marlena in the world premiere of Water for Elephants at the Alliance Theatre this past summer.
Gustin, who also appeared in the TV series Glee, will portray main character Jacob Jankowski in a cast that also includes Isabelle McCalla, Gregg Edelman (City of Angels), Paul Alexander Nolan (Slave Play), Stan Brown (Homicide: Life on the Street), Joe De Paul (Cirque du Soleil’s Dralion), Sara Gettelfinger (Dirty Rotten Scoundrels) and Wade McCollum (Wicked).
Watch Gustin and McCalla perform the song “Wild” from Water for Elephants in the newly released video above.
The musical, based on the Sara Gruen 2006 novel that was made into a 2011 film that starred Robert Pattinson in the Jacob role, begins previews on Saturday, February 24, at Broadway’s Imperial Theatre. Opening night is Thursday, March 21.
Water For Elephants features a book by Rick Elice and a score by PigPen Theatre Company (The Tale of Despereaux). Jessica Stone (Kimberly Akimbo) directs.
Alliance Theatre production of ‘Water for Elephants’
The casting was announced today by producers Peter Schneider, Jennifer Costello, Grove Entertainment, Frank Marshall, Isaac Robert Hurwitz, and Seth A. Goldstein. Additional casting to be announced soon.
The synopsis: “After losing what matters most, a young man jumps a moving train unsure of where the road will take him and finds a new home with the remarkable crew of a traveling circus, and a life – and love – beyond his wildest dreams. Seen through the eyes of his older self, his adventure becomes a poignant reminder that if you choose the ride, life can begin again at any age.”
Gustin’s stage credits include a touring production of West Side Story. He joined the cast of Glee in the musical series’ third season, portraying Sebastian Smythe, the lead of Dalton Academy’s singing group the Warblers. Film credits include Krystal and Affluenza. He’s played The Flash‘s Barry Allen since the series debut in 2014 and continued through its final episode in May of this year. He also made several crossover appearances on Arrow, Legends of Tomorrow and Supergirl.
McCalla is currently starring as Maizy in Shucked on Broadway, and she originated the role of Alyssa Greene in The Prom and played Princess Jasmine in Aladdin both on Broadway and the North American Tour. She originated the role of Marlena in the world premiere of Water for Elephants at the Alliance Theatre this past summer.
- 11/3/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
A musical adaptation of Water for Elephants is slated to come to Broadway this spring.
The musical, based on the novel by Sara Gruen, is scheduled to play the Imperial Theatre starting Feb. 24, with an opening night set for March 21. Rick Elice, who wrote the book to Jersey Boys as well as Peter and the Starcatcher, penned the book for the musical, which features a score by the band PigPen Theatre Co.
Jessica Stone, who was nominated for the 2023 Tony Award for best direction of a musical for her work on Kimberly Akimbo, directs the musical.
The story follows an old man reminiscing on his younger adventures, when he jumped onto a moving train and then became part of a traveling circus, where he worked as a veterinarian and fell in love with the married star performer. The novel was also adapted into a film in 2011, starring Robert Patinson and Reese Witherspoon.
The musical, based on the novel by Sara Gruen, is scheduled to play the Imperial Theatre starting Feb. 24, with an opening night set for March 21. Rick Elice, who wrote the book to Jersey Boys as well as Peter and the Starcatcher, penned the book for the musical, which features a score by the band PigPen Theatre Co.
Jessica Stone, who was nominated for the 2023 Tony Award for best direction of a musical for her work on Kimberly Akimbo, directs the musical.
The story follows an old man reminiscing on his younger adventures, when he jumped onto a moving train and then became part of a traveling circus, where he worked as a veterinarian and fell in love with the married star performer. The novel was also adapted into a film in 2011, starring Robert Patinson and Reese Witherspoon.
- 9/12/2023
- by Caitlin Huston
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Two summers ago, my boyfriend, Thomas, and I were stuck in traffic on the Long Island Expressway, when my cell lit up with a number I didn’t recognize. Spam, or so I thought, before playing the message: “Hi, John! I’m calling from the wardrobe department on the set of Strange But True. We’re trying to determine what your character would wear in the scene you’re shooting with Amy Ryan this week. Give us a call back.”
Seeing as the majority of my voicemails are robocalls from a woman speaking Chinese, this message was more than a little exciting.
Seeing as the majority of my voicemails are robocalls from a woman speaking Chinese, this message was more than a little exciting.
- 9/6/2019
- by People Staff
- PEOPLE.com
Kayti Burt Nov 2, 2018
It's NaNoWriMo season, and we're hoping to motivate current writers with these success stories!
November is upon us, which means one thing if you are a writer: National Novel Writing Month, also know as NaNoWriMo, the 30-day period in which writers collectively take it upon themselves to write 50,000 words of a novel.
Have you joined the Den of Geek Book Club? You should!
Many have tried, not all have succeeded, but a very lucky few have turned their NaNoWriMo projects into successful, published novels. As NaNoWriMo begins, we're taking the time to highlight its success stories in the hopes of motivating all of thos brave NaNoWriMo souls who are embarking on the perilous, exciting journey this year.
Here are seven books that began life as NaNoWriMo projects...
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
Written over the span of three NaNoWriMo periods, The Night Circus is the story...
It's NaNoWriMo season, and we're hoping to motivate current writers with these success stories!
November is upon us, which means one thing if you are a writer: National Novel Writing Month, also know as NaNoWriMo, the 30-day period in which writers collectively take it upon themselves to write 50,000 words of a novel.
Have you joined the Den of Geek Book Club? You should!
Many have tried, not all have succeeded, but a very lucky few have turned their NaNoWriMo projects into successful, published novels. As NaNoWriMo begins, we're taking the time to highlight its success stories in the hopes of motivating all of thos brave NaNoWriMo souls who are embarking on the perilous, exciting journey this year.
Here are seven books that began life as NaNoWriMo projects...
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
Written over the span of three NaNoWriMo periods, The Night Circus is the story...
- 11/2/2017
- Den of Geek
According to the Hollywood Reporter, producers Peter Schneider and Elisabetta di Mambro have acquired the rights to to create a stage version of Sara Gruen's Water for Elephants. Schneider told THR 'I have loved Sara Gruen's Water for Elephants since it was first published and was captivated by its theatricality. It is so dramatic - a woman who is trapped in a relationship for all the wrong reasons meets and falls in love with a man for all the right reasons. Throw in an elephant as a matchmaker and you have the potential for a show of great imagination and emotional depth.'...
- 1/26/2015
- by BWW News Desk
- BroadwayWorld.com
Robert Pattinson escaped immediately finding out that his girlfriend of three years Kristen Stewart was cheating on him with Snow White and the Huntsman director Rupert Sanders. Since, rumors have surfaced that he would like to speak with Liberty Ross to try to find out how long the affair has been going on, and as recent as Tuesday night ETOnline reported that he will be canceling his Cosmpolis appearance on August 11. His rep has since denied any such thing, but what has been confirmed is where the actor has been staying this whole time. Looks like there's no better Hollywood friend than Reese Witherspoon!
| Related: Kristen Wears His Hat, Rob Moves Out |
| Related: Charlize Theron Is Reportedly Furious At Kristen |
| Related: Water For Elephants Author Sara Gruen On The Film Adaptation |
People reports that Pattinson has been staying at Witherspoon's Ojai, Calif. home since leaving his L.A. home. Clearly,...
| Related: Kristen Wears His Hat, Rob Moves Out |
| Related: Charlize Theron Is Reportedly Furious At Kristen |
| Related: Water For Elephants Author Sara Gruen On The Film Adaptation |
People reports that Pattinson has been staying at Witherspoon's Ojai, Calif. home since leaving his L.A. home. Clearly,...
- 8/1/2012
- by Stephanie Webber
- Celebsology
Only yesterday were two new directors added to the candidates list for The Hunger Games sequel, Catching Fire. We speculated that the addition of these two new directors probably meant that the initial three names, Alfonso Cuaron (Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban), Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu (Biutiful) and David Cronenberg (The Fly, A History of Violence) were out of the running. Sure enough, THR is reporting that Francis Lawrence has landed the directing gig. Of the names that were being considered, Lawrence seemed like the logical choice, given his experience with the post-apocalyptic Will smith movie I Am Legend as well as the more recent Robert Pattinson-Reese Witherspoon in Water for Elephants, a film adaptation of author Sara Gruen's best-selling novel....
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- 4/20/2012
- by affiliates@fandango.com
- Fandango
DVD Playhouse—November 2011
By Allen Gardner
Tree Of Life (20th Century Fox) Terrence Malick’s latest effort is both the best film of 2011 and the finest work of his (arguably) mixed, but often masterly canon. A series of vignettes, mostly set in 1950s Texas, capture the memory of a man (Sean Penn) in present-day New York who looks back on his life, and his parents’ (Brad Pitt, Jessica Chastain) troubled marriage, when word of his younger brother’s suicide reaches him. Almost indescribable beyond that, except to say no other film in history so perfectly evokes the magic and mystery of the human memory, which both crystalizes (and sometimes idealizes) the past. Like Stanley Kubrick’s 2001, this is a challenging, polarizing work that you must let wash over you. If you go along for the ride, you’re in for a unique, rewarding cinematic experience. Also available on Blu-ray disc.
By Allen Gardner
Tree Of Life (20th Century Fox) Terrence Malick’s latest effort is both the best film of 2011 and the finest work of his (arguably) mixed, but often masterly canon. A series of vignettes, mostly set in 1950s Texas, capture the memory of a man (Sean Penn) in present-day New York who looks back on his life, and his parents’ (Brad Pitt, Jessica Chastain) troubled marriage, when word of his younger brother’s suicide reaches him. Almost indescribable beyond that, except to say no other film in history so perfectly evokes the magic and mystery of the human memory, which both crystalizes (and sometimes idealizes) the past. Like Stanley Kubrick’s 2001, this is a challenging, polarizing work that you must let wash over you. If you go along for the ride, you’re in for a unique, rewarding cinematic experience. Also available on Blu-ray disc.
- 11/25/2011
- by The Hollywood Interview.com
- The Hollywood Interview
Reese Witherspoon, last seen opposite Twilight Saga lead Robert Pattinson in Fox's adaptation of Sara Gruen's period romance Water for Elephants, turned the Disney comedy Wish List upside-down when she agreed to play the lead, what was originally written as a male part. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Disney moved forward on fixing the situation by hiring Kung Fu Panda 2 screenwriters Jonathan Aibel and Glenn Berger to re-write Randi Mayem Singer’s original script about a young girl who drops a coin into a wishing well and makes ten wishes with no impact. Witherspoon signed on to play the little girl as a grown career woman who faces her childhood wishes coming true all at once because her coin dislodged after 25 years and finally lands at the bottom of the well.
- 11/23/2011
- Upcoming-Movies.com
Reese Witherspoon, last seen opposite Twilight Saga lead Robert Pattinson in Fox's adaptation of Sara Gruen's period romance Water for Elephants, turned the Disney comedy Wish List upside-down when she agreed to play the lead, what was originally written as a male part. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Disney moved forward on fixing the situation by hiring Kung Fu Panda 2 screenwriters Jonathan Aibel and Glenn Berger to re-write Randi Mayem Singer’s original script about a young girl who drops a coin into a wishing well and makes ten wishes with no impact. Witherspoon signed on to play the little girl as a grown career woman who faces her childhood wishes coming true all at once because her coin dislodged after 25 years and finally lands at the bottom of the well.
- 11/23/2011
- Upcoming-Movies.com
Reese Witherspoon, last seen opposite Twilight Saga lead Robert Pattinson in Fox's adaptation of Sara Gruen's period romance Water for Elephants, turned the Disney comedy Wish List upside-down when she agreed to play the lead, what was originally written as a male part. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Disney moved forward on fixing the situation by hiring Kung Fu Panda 2 screenwriters Jonathan Aibel and Glenn Berger to re-write Randi Mayem Singer’s original script about a young girl who drops a coin into a wishing well and makes ten wishes with no impact. Witherspoon signed on to play the little girl as a grown career woman who faces her childhood wishes coming true all at once because her coin dislodged after 25 years and finally lands at the bottom of the well.
- 11/23/2011
- Upcoming-Movies.com
Chicago – Given my general aversion to modern soap operas, I was understandably nervous about reviewing Francis Lawrence’s “Water For Elephants,” an over-heated romance based on the best-selling book. Much to my surprise, this is an effective drama that should remind viewers of “the kind of movies they don’t make any more.” It would have been right at home in the Hollywood of the ’40s and ’50s and should make a satisfying rental for nearly any audience willing to go for the cheesy ride.
Blu-Ray Rating: 3.5/5.0
One of the first things one notices about “Water For Elephants,” especially given the strong HD transfer from Fox, is that the film looks stunning. They’re the names that most people don’t notice in the credits, but people like cinematographer Rodrigo Prieto (“Brokeback Mountain”) and 8-time Oscar-nominated composer James Newton Howard add a caliber to the production values of a film...
Blu-Ray Rating: 3.5/5.0
One of the first things one notices about “Water For Elephants,” especially given the strong HD transfer from Fox, is that the film looks stunning. They’re the names that most people don’t notice in the credits, but people like cinematographer Rodrigo Prieto (“Brokeback Mountain”) and 8-time Oscar-nominated composer James Newton Howard add a caliber to the production values of a film...
- 11/10/2011
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Witness the epic tale of forbidden love as Water for Elephants comes to DVD from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment and M&C’s giving away two copies!Take a journey back in time with the romantic tale based on Sara Gruen’s New York Times #1 Best-Seller novel of the same name. Starring Academy Award-winner Reese Witherspoon (Walk The Line), Robert Pattinson (Twilight series) and Oscar-winner Christoph Waltz (Inglourious Basterds), the film presents an epic tale of forbidden love in a magical place filled with adventure, wonder and great danger. Showcasing the decadence of a bohemian circus and the majesty of its animals against the backdrop and beauty of a bygone era, Water for Elephants makes the ideal holiday gift idea for your...
- 11/7/2011
- by Patrick Luce
- Monsters and Critics
Why are we reviewing this failed adaptation of Sara Gruen’s 2006 novel, Water for Elephants? Well, we like circuses and my wife enjoyed the novel. We think Christoph Waltz is one of the more interesting actors to watch these days and frankly, we just plain like Reese Witherspoon, who hasn’t made enough solid films the last few years. Then there’s director Francis Lawrence, whose Constantine I thought was underrated. With the box office disappointment out this week on disc from 20th Century Home Entertainment, it was time to give it a look.
This Depression-era story tells of Jacob Jankowski (Robert Pattinson), a would-be veterinarian whose studies at Cornell were cut short given the economy. He hits the road, as did so many others, but only he stumbled across the Benzini Brothers Circus, run by August (Waltz) and featuring his wife Marlena (Witherspoon). They need a doctor on the...
This Depression-era story tells of Jacob Jankowski (Robert Pattinson), a would-be veterinarian whose studies at Cornell were cut short given the economy. He hits the road, as did so many others, but only he stumbled across the Benzini Brothers Circus, run by August (Waltz) and featuring his wife Marlena (Witherspoon). They need a doctor on the...
- 11/4/2011
- by Robert Greenberger
- Comicmix.com
The romantic drama, Water for Elephants, based on the beloved novel by Sara Gruen, was released on DVD/Blu-ray yesterday. The film is beautiful, and may be one of the most underrated films released this year. The film stars Academy Award winner Reese Witherspoon and Twilight star Robert Pattinson. Both stars gave solid performances, especially Pattinson who carries the film.
We sat down with Witherspoon and Pattinson to talk about the film and more. Check out the interviews. Catch Water for Elephants on DVD/Blu-Ray, which is now available in stores and online.
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- 11/3/2011
- by foxallaccess
- Fox All Access
Water for Elephants is a fantastic novel that draws audiences in to the beautiful wonders that the circus has to offer underneath its ragged drapes. It also stays true to the hardship and prejudice that workers used to drearfully endure with each traveling performance.
The film adaptation about a veterinary student abandoning his course work to literally join the circus premiered in 2011 and is now being released in DVD and Blu-Ray. The storyline touches on first love and tragedy and over all, really brings to stage the enlightening idea that 'Life Is The Most Spectacular Show On Earth.'
To get a better look at the Old-Time Circus, Ology spoke with author Sara Gruen about bringing her research to the big screen, what she thought of Rob Pattinson and Reese Witherspoon taking on its lead roles and what specific scenes she had a cameo in.
Ology: Loved this book! Read it in two days.
The film adaptation about a veterinary student abandoning his course work to literally join the circus premiered in 2011 and is now being released in DVD and Blu-Ray. The storyline touches on first love and tragedy and over all, really brings to stage the enlightening idea that 'Life Is The Most Spectacular Show On Earth.'
To get a better look at the Old-Time Circus, Ology spoke with author Sara Gruen about bringing her research to the big screen, what she thought of Rob Pattinson and Reese Witherspoon taking on its lead roles and what specific scenes she had a cameo in.
Ology: Loved this book! Read it in two days.
- 11/1/2011
- by Stephanie Webber
- Filmology
Water for Elephants is a fantastic novel that draws audiences in to the beautiful wonders that the circus has to offer underneath its ragged drapes. It also stays true to the hardship and prejudice that workers used to drearfully endure with each traveling performance.
The film adaptation about a veterinary student abandoning his course work to literally join the circus premiered in 2011 and is now being released in DVD and Blu-Ray. The storyline touches on first love and tragedy and over all, really brings to stage the enlightening idea that 'Life Is The Most Spectacular Show On Earth.'
To get a better look at the Old-Time Circus, Ology spoke with author Sara Gruen about bringing her research to the big screen, what she thought of Rob Pattinson and Reese Witherspoon taking on its lead roles and what specific scenes she had a cameo in.
Ology: Loved this book! Read it in two days.
The film adaptation about a veterinary student abandoning his course work to literally join the circus premiered in 2011 and is now being released in DVD and Blu-Ray. The storyline touches on first love and tragedy and over all, really brings to stage the enlightening idea that 'Life Is The Most Spectacular Show On Earth.'
To get a better look at the Old-Time Circus, Ology spoke with author Sara Gruen about bringing her research to the big screen, what she thought of Rob Pattinson and Reese Witherspoon taking on its lead roles and what specific scenes she had a cameo in.
Ology: Loved this book! Read it in two days.
- 11/1/2011
- by Stephanie Webber
- Celebsology
Take a look in the mirror. Turn around. How do your ears look? Okay? We ask because, while there's very little chance you look anything like an elephant, we have it on good authority that you've been exhibiting a very elephantine personality trait:
Loving Robert Pattinson.
Well, if being a pachyderm is wrong, then we don't want you to be right, because we're about to give away "Water for Elephants" prize packs to two lucky fans. And trust us: It ain't peanuts.
"Water for Elephants," as you no doubt recall with your perfect pachyderm memory, was one of this spring's biggest hits, thanks to R.Pattz and his chemistry with on-screen love interest Reese Witherspoon; the duo played circus folk who get involved thanks to, you know, an elephant, much to the dismay of noted anti-elephant force Christoph Waltz.
And now we're giving you a chance to not only relive...
Loving Robert Pattinson.
Well, if being a pachyderm is wrong, then we don't want you to be right, because we're about to give away "Water for Elephants" prize packs to two lucky fans. And trust us: It ain't peanuts.
"Water for Elephants," as you no doubt recall with your perfect pachyderm memory, was one of this spring's biggest hits, thanks to R.Pattz and his chemistry with on-screen love interest Reese Witherspoon; the duo played circus folk who get involved thanks to, you know, an elephant, much to the dismay of noted anti-elephant force Christoph Waltz.
And now we're giving you a chance to not only relive...
- 10/28/2011
- by NextMovie Staff
- NextMovie
If you’ve been waiting patiently for your chance to own your very own copy of Water for Elephants starring Robert Pattinson, your wait at long last finally has a date. Rob’s Water for Elephants will be released on November 1st on Blu-ray and DVD. Check it all out below:
Witness The Epic Tale of Forbidden Love Starring
Academy Award® Winner Reese Witherspoon and
Robert Pattinson On Blu-ray and DVD November 1
Take a journey back in time with the romantic tale based on Sara Gruen’s New York Times #1 Best-Seller novel of the same name, Water For Elephants, coming to Blu-ray and DVD on November 1st from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment. Starring Academy Award®-winner Reese Witherspoon (Walk The Line), Robert Pattinson (Twilight series) and Oscar®-winner Christoph Waltz (Inglourious Basterds), the film presents an epic tale of forbidden love in a magical place filled with adventure, wonder and great danger. Showcasing the decadence of a bohemian circus and the majesty of its animals against the backdrop and beauty of a bygone era, Water For Elephants makes the ideal holiday gift idea for your favorite film buff, fashionista or book-lover!
Water For Elephants Blu-ray + Digital Copy will include:
o Feature Film
o Special Features
o Robert Pattinson Spotlight
o Feature Performer Reese Witherspoon
o The Traveling Show: From Page to Screen
o Working Without A Net – The Visual Effects of Water for Elephants
o The Star Attraction
o Raising the Tent
o Secrets of the Big Top
o Audio Commentary with Director Francis Lawrence and Writer Richard Lagravenese
o Theatrical Trailer
o Live Extras
o Exclusive: Stars of the Circus
o Blu-ray Highlight: The Traveling Show: From Page to Screen
o Theatrical Trailer
o Live Lookup
o Digital Copy
Water For Elephants DVD
o Feature Film
o Special Features
o Robert Pattinson Spotlight
o Feature Performer Reese Witherspoon
o The Traveling Show: From Page to Screen
o Audio Commentary with Director Francis Lawrence and Writer Richard Lagravenese
o Theatrical Trailer...
Witness The Epic Tale of Forbidden Love Starring
Academy Award® Winner Reese Witherspoon and
Robert Pattinson On Blu-ray and DVD November 1
Take a journey back in time with the romantic tale based on Sara Gruen’s New York Times #1 Best-Seller novel of the same name, Water For Elephants, coming to Blu-ray and DVD on November 1st from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment. Starring Academy Award®-winner Reese Witherspoon (Walk The Line), Robert Pattinson (Twilight series) and Oscar®-winner Christoph Waltz (Inglourious Basterds), the film presents an epic tale of forbidden love in a magical place filled with adventure, wonder and great danger. Showcasing the decadence of a bohemian circus and the majesty of its animals against the backdrop and beauty of a bygone era, Water For Elephants makes the ideal holiday gift idea for your favorite film buff, fashionista or book-lover!
Water For Elephants Blu-ray + Digital Copy will include:
o Feature Film
o Special Features
o Robert Pattinson Spotlight
o Feature Performer Reese Witherspoon
o The Traveling Show: From Page to Screen
o Working Without A Net – The Visual Effects of Water for Elephants
o The Star Attraction
o Raising the Tent
o Secrets of the Big Top
o Audio Commentary with Director Francis Lawrence and Writer Richard Lagravenese
o Theatrical Trailer
o Live Extras
o Exclusive: Stars of the Circus
o Blu-ray Highlight: The Traveling Show: From Page to Screen
o Theatrical Trailer
o Live Lookup
o Digital Copy
Water For Elephants DVD
o Feature Film
o Special Features
o Robert Pattinson Spotlight
o Feature Performer Reese Witherspoon
o The Traveling Show: From Page to Screen
o Audio Commentary with Director Francis Lawrence and Writer Richard Lagravenese
o Theatrical Trailer...
- 9/6/2011
- by Evie
- twilightersanonymous.com
Julia's Eyes; 13 Assassins; Water for Elephants; Priest; A Little Bit of Heaven
A few years ago actress Belén Rueda dazzled audiences with her fearsomely engaging central performance in Ja Bayona's ghostly chiller The Orphanage. Now, in Guillem Morales's intense psychological thriller Julia's Eyes (2010, Optimum, 15), she reconfirms her position as one of modern cinema's most credible and entrancing performers. As the eponymous heroine, a woman suffering from progressive sight loss worsened by emotional trauma, Rueda brings real conviction to a role that demands both audience sympathy and not a little suspension of disbelief. Compelled to uncover the truth behind the alleged suicide of a similarly afflicted sister, Julia retraces her twin's footsteps to discover the faceless spectre of a mysterious man lurking always at the periphery of her vision. As the darkness of her condition closes in, Julia's mental state starts to collapse – or does it?
Like The Orphanage, this...
A few years ago actress Belén Rueda dazzled audiences with her fearsomely engaging central performance in Ja Bayona's ghostly chiller The Orphanage. Now, in Guillem Morales's intense psychological thriller Julia's Eyes (2010, Optimum, 15), she reconfirms her position as one of modern cinema's most credible and entrancing performers. As the eponymous heroine, a woman suffering from progressive sight loss worsened by emotional trauma, Rueda brings real conviction to a role that demands both audience sympathy and not a little suspension of disbelief. Compelled to uncover the truth behind the alleged suicide of a similarly afflicted sister, Julia retraces her twin's footsteps to discover the faceless spectre of a mysterious man lurking always at the periphery of her vision. As the darkness of her condition closes in, Julia's mental state starts to collapse – or does it?
Like The Orphanage, this...
- 9/3/2011
- by Mark Kermode
- The Guardian - Film News
Holiday weekends aren’t an excuse for Twilight, Robert Pattinson, or Kristen Stewart fans! This isn’t Breaking Dawn related but via BreakingDawn.org I was led to this large gallery of images from Water for Elephants, the vast majority of them featuring Robert Pattinson, though Reese Witherspoon sneaks into the mix too! I also went ahead and reposted the Water for Elephants trailer, hooking you up with the one-stop post for the DVD/Blu Ray in November.
Along with the aforementioned Witherspoon, Pattinson is joined by a cast that includes Oscar winner Christoph Waltz, James Frain, and Tai in film directed by Francis Lawrence. Water for Elephants is based on the novel of the same name by Sara Gruen, and hit theaters this Summer.
Along with the aforementioned Witherspoon, Pattinson is joined by a cast that includes Oscar winner Christoph Waltz, James Frain, and Tai in film directed by Francis Lawrence. Water for Elephants is based on the novel of the same name by Sara Gruen, and hit theaters this Summer.
- 9/3/2011
- by Jay Tomio
- Boomtron
Release Date: Nov. 1, 2011
Price: DVD $29.99, Blu-ray $39.99
Studio: 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment
Robert Pattinson and Reese Witherspoon join the circus in Water for Elephants.
The colorful 2011 romance drama Water for Elephants showcases the decadence of a bohemian circus and the majesty of its animals against the backdrop of a long-gone era.
Based on Sara Gruen’s 2006 best-selling novel of the same name, the movie stars Reese Witherspoon (How Do You Know), Robert Pattinson (the Twilight films) in another swoon-worthy role and Christoph Waltz (The Green Hornet) as, you guessed it, the villain.
The film’s Depression-era story concerns Jacob Jankowski (Pattinson), a young man with little money who abandons his veterinary studies at Cornell University following the sudden death of his parents. With no other family or home, Jacob stows away on a train carrying performers of The Benzini Brothers circus, leading to him to being hired as a veterinarian for the troupe’s animals.
Price: DVD $29.99, Blu-ray $39.99
Studio: 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment
Robert Pattinson and Reese Witherspoon join the circus in Water for Elephants.
The colorful 2011 romance drama Water for Elephants showcases the decadence of a bohemian circus and the majesty of its animals against the backdrop of a long-gone era.
Based on Sara Gruen’s 2006 best-selling novel of the same name, the movie stars Reese Witherspoon (How Do You Know), Robert Pattinson (the Twilight films) in another swoon-worthy role and Christoph Waltz (The Green Hornet) as, you guessed it, the villain.
The film’s Depression-era story concerns Jacob Jankowski (Pattinson), a young man with little money who abandons his veterinary studies at Cornell University following the sudden death of his parents. With no other family or home, Jacob stows away on a train carrying performers of The Benzini Brothers circus, leading to him to being hired as a veterinarian for the troupe’s animals.
- 9/2/2011
- by Laurence
- Disc Dish
The Water for Elephants Blu-ray and DVD will be available in the United States on November 1. Directed by Francis Lawrence and adapted by Richard Lagravenese from Sara Gruen's bestselling novel, the circus-set romantic drama stars Reese Witherspoon, Robert Pattinson, and Christoph Waltz. Hal Holbrook plays an older version of Pattinson's character. The Blu-ray disc features include: Robert Pattinson spotlight Reese Witherspoon featurette Audio commentary by director Francis Lawrence and screenwriter Richard Lagravenese Visual effects special feature Inside look at script development and set design Historical circus trivia Though hardly a major domestic box-office hit, so far this year Water for Elephants is the top-grossing straight drama (non-fantasy, sci-fi, action, thriller) in North America. (Tate Taylor's The Help is a comedy-drama.) The Witherspoon-Pattinson-Waltz movie has collected $58.7 million domestically, in addition to $56.43 million overseas for a worldwide total of $115.14 million. Recently, Water for Elephants received some unwelcome publicity when several...
- 8/31/2011
- by D. Zhea
- Alt Film Guide
Reese Witherspoon recently starred opposite Twilight Saga lead Robert Pattinson (R-Patz!) in Fox’s adaptation of Sara Gruen’s period romance Water for Elephants. The 35-year-old actress also received a MTV Generation Award and made news with a saucy acceptance speech about younger actresses making sex tapes and taking nude photos on their smart phones. Deadline reported that Witherspoon also kept busy on the career front by boarding the Disney comedy Wish List as its headliner. Randi Mayem Singer wrote the script about a young girl who drops a coin into a wishing well and makes ten wishes with no impact.
- 8/1/2011
- Upcoming-Movies.com
Reese Witherspoon recently starred opposite Twilight Saga lead Robert Pattinson (R-Patz!) in Fox’s adaptation of Sara Gruen’s period romance Water for Elephants. The 35-year-old actress also received a MTV Generation Award and made news with a saucy acceptance speech about younger actresses making sex tapes and taking nude photos on their smart phones. Deadline reported that Witherspoon also kept busy on the career front by boarding the Disney comedy Wish List as its headliner. Randi Mayem Singer wrote the script about a young girl who drops a coin into a wishing well and makes ten wishes with no impact.
- 8/1/2011
- Upcoming-Movies.com
Reese Witherspoon recently starred opposite Twilight Saga lead Robert Pattinson (R-Patz!) in Fox’s adaptation of Sara Gruen’s period romance Water for Elephants. The 35-year-old actress also received a MTV Generation Award and made news with a saucy acceptance speech about younger actresses making sex tapes and taking nude photos on their smart phones. Deadline reported that Witherspoon also kept busy on the career front by boarding the Disney comedy Wish List as its headliner. Randi Mayem Singer wrote the script about a young girl who drops a coin into a wishing well and makes ten wishes with no impact.
- 8/1/2011
- Upcoming-Movies.com
Hollywood needs a hit
Actually, Hollywood needs a bunch of hits.
Actually, Hollywood needs a bunch of big, fat, through-the-roof hits.
And with the summer – and the year – half over, the time to come up with them is running out.
The movie business finished 2010 with the second highest domestic box office on record: $10.2 billion. But this was a misleading, oh, let’s call it a “symptom.” That ten billion and change was like the midpoint in every episode of House where the brilliant diagnostician thinks he’s figured out what’s ailing this week’s guest star, his team begins treatment, and, just as the patient seems to be getting better and the regulars are congratulating each other on the save…the patient throws a conniption fit, thrashing around on the bed and spitting up blood.
Part of that ten billion-plus came from a nearly 20% hike in average tickets prices...
Actually, Hollywood needs a bunch of hits.
Actually, Hollywood needs a bunch of big, fat, through-the-roof hits.
And with the summer – and the year – half over, the time to come up with them is running out.
The movie business finished 2010 with the second highest domestic box office on record: $10.2 billion. But this was a misleading, oh, let’s call it a “symptom.” That ten billion and change was like the midpoint in every episode of House where the brilliant diagnostician thinks he’s figured out what’s ailing this week’s guest star, his team begins treatment, and, just as the patient seems to be getting better and the regulars are congratulating each other on the save…the patient throws a conniption fit, thrashing around on the bed and spitting up blood.
Part of that ten billion-plus came from a nearly 20% hike in average tickets prices...
- 7/5/2011
- by Bill Mesce
- SoundOnSight
Amidst a sea of summer sequels, do not miss this underrated yet superbly crafted film.
The Basics
The time is 1931 and the nation is heavy under the weight of the Depression. After the tragic deaths of his parents, a young veterinary student abruptly abandons his studies and takes to the rails. By chance, he boards a passing circus train and immediately finds himself in a world he could never have imagined.
Cast: Reese Witherspoon, Robert Pattinson, Christoph Waltz, Hal Holbrook
Written By: Richard Lagravenese (screenplay), Sara Gruen (novel)
Directed By: Francis Lawrence
The Delivery
I am generally not one for the film adaptations of best-selling novels and I am certainly not the expected person who would make the trek to see a romance film of any kind. But there was something alluring about Francis Lawrence's newest picture that pulled me into the theater, it's haunting siren's song drawing me hypnotically to the local cineplex.
The Basics
The time is 1931 and the nation is heavy under the weight of the Depression. After the tragic deaths of his parents, a young veterinary student abruptly abandons his studies and takes to the rails. By chance, he boards a passing circus train and immediately finds himself in a world he could never have imagined.
Cast: Reese Witherspoon, Robert Pattinson, Christoph Waltz, Hal Holbrook
Written By: Richard Lagravenese (screenplay), Sara Gruen (novel)
Directed By: Francis Lawrence
The Delivery
I am generally not one for the film adaptations of best-selling novels and I am certainly not the expected person who would make the trek to see a romance film of any kind. But there was something alluring about Francis Lawrence's newest picture that pulled me into the theater, it's haunting siren's song drawing me hypnotically to the local cineplex.
- 6/13/2011
- Cinelinx
It can take several decades for the Oscars to recognize actors for their career accomplishments. But not the MTV Movie Awards.
At this weekend's Movie Awards, Reese Witherspoon will receive the coveted Generation Award for her 20-year career delighting moviegoers.
The MTV Generation Award is given to actors and actresses whose entire body of work has entertained, challenged and impressed audiences. Witherspoon joins the ranks of such previous winners as Jim Carrey, Adam Sandler and Sandra Bullock; at 35, she'll be the youngest star yet to receive the award.
In honor of this achievement, we've compiled Reese's nine greatest roles, from circus performer to overachieving high schooler to country music star.
9. 'Sweet Home Alabama' (2002)
As Melanie Smooter, the big-city fashion designer who can't quite shake her small-town Southern roots, Reese Witherspoon charms her way into the hearts of viewers and two eligible onscreen suitors played by Josh Lucas and Patrick Dempsey.
At this weekend's Movie Awards, Reese Witherspoon will receive the coveted Generation Award for her 20-year career delighting moviegoers.
The MTV Generation Award is given to actors and actresses whose entire body of work has entertained, challenged and impressed audiences. Witherspoon joins the ranks of such previous winners as Jim Carrey, Adam Sandler and Sandra Bullock; at 35, she'll be the youngest star yet to receive the award.
In honor of this achievement, we've compiled Reese's nine greatest roles, from circus performer to overachieving high schooler to country music star.
9. 'Sweet Home Alabama' (2002)
As Melanie Smooter, the big-city fashion designer who can't quite shake her small-town Southern roots, Reese Witherspoon charms her way into the hearts of viewers and two eligible onscreen suitors played by Josh Lucas and Patrick Dempsey.
- 6/3/2011
- by Julie Miller
- NextMovie
HollywoodNews.com: Robert Douglas Thomas Pattinson[ (born 13 May 1986) is an English actor, model, musician, and producer. Born and raised in London, Pattinson started out his career by playing the role of Cedric Diggory in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.
Robert Pattinson ◄ Back Next ►Picture 1 of 11
Robert Pattinson - 68th Annual Golden Globe Awards - Arrivals
◄ Back Next ►Picture 1 of 11
Robert Pattinson - 68th Annual Golden Globe Awards - Arrivals
Later, he landed the leading role of Edward Cullen in the film adaptations of the Twilight novels by Stephenie Meyer, and came to worldwide international fame. Pattinson was ranked as one of the highest paid actors in Hollywood based on 2009 earnings. In 2010, Pattinson was named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in The World, and also in the same year Forbes ranked him as one of the most powerful celebrities in the world in the Celebrity 100.
attinson was born in London. His mother, Clare, worked for a modelling agency, and his father, Richard, imported vintage cars from the U.S. Pattinson has two elder sisters, singer Lizzy Pattinson, and Victoria Pattinson. Growing...
Robert Pattinson ◄ Back Next ►Picture 1 of 11
Robert Pattinson - 68th Annual Golden Globe Awards - Arrivals
◄ Back Next ►Picture 1 of 11
Robert Pattinson - 68th Annual Golden Globe Awards - Arrivals
Later, he landed the leading role of Edward Cullen in the film adaptations of the Twilight novels by Stephenie Meyer, and came to worldwide international fame. Pattinson was ranked as one of the highest paid actors in Hollywood based on 2009 earnings. In 2010, Pattinson was named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in The World, and also in the same year Forbes ranked him as one of the most powerful celebrities in the world in the Celebrity 100.
attinson was born in London. His mother, Clare, worked for a modelling agency, and his father, Richard, imported vintage cars from the U.S. Pattinson has two elder sisters, singer Lizzy Pattinson, and Victoria Pattinson. Growing...
- 5/13/2011
- by Josh Abraham
- Hollywoodnews.com
Robert Pattinson stands out in an otherwise bland adaptation of Sara Gruen's bestseller
Filmed in the flashback-nostalgic buttery glow that I associate with glutinous adaptations like Nick Cassavetes's The Notebook or Lasse Hallström's The Cider House Rules, this romantic adventure is based on the 2006 bestseller by Sara Gruen. Robert Pattinson attempts to emerge from the twilight as a wholesome leading male: he is Jacob, a young guy studying to be a vet at Cornell University during the Great Depression, when he receives the shattering news that his parents have died in a car wreck, leaving him penniless and unable to continue with his studies. So he trudges off looking for work, leaps into a train boxcar and finds himself part of a rackety travelling circus. Instantly, he makes himself indispensable as an animal doctor and a miraculously intuitive trainer of the circus's expensive new elephant – a big-yet-sensitive...
Filmed in the flashback-nostalgic buttery glow that I associate with glutinous adaptations like Nick Cassavetes's The Notebook or Lasse Hallström's The Cider House Rules, this romantic adventure is based on the 2006 bestseller by Sara Gruen. Robert Pattinson attempts to emerge from the twilight as a wholesome leading male: he is Jacob, a young guy studying to be a vet at Cornell University during the Great Depression, when he receives the shattering news that his parents have died in a car wreck, leaving him penniless and unable to continue with his studies. So he trudges off looking for work, leaps into a train boxcar and finds himself part of a rackety travelling circus. Instantly, he makes himself indispensable as an animal doctor and a miraculously intuitive trainer of the circus's expensive new elephant – a big-yet-sensitive...
- 5/5/2011
- by Peter Bradshaw
- The Guardian - Film News
Twiilight heartthrob Robert Pattinson admitted he was overwhelmed by his own celebrity as thousands of fans - many of whom had queued for 13 hours - greeted him with screams at his latest film premiere in London.
The 24-year-old British actor was joined by his Oscar-winning co-stars Reese Witherspoon and Christoph Waltz on the red carpet at Westfield shopping centre for the premiere of circus love story Water For Elephants. But the screaming and sobbing girls only had eyes for Robert.
He said of his hysterical fans, some of whom began queuing at 6am outside the shopping centre to get a front-row position: "It's nuts!"
And commenting on his global celebrity status, Pattinson said: "It's weird, but it can be fun. I used to go shopping in this place and now it's crazy.
"I guess you kind of adapt to it a little bit. Just keep working all the time and...
The 24-year-old British actor was joined by his Oscar-winning co-stars Reese Witherspoon and Christoph Waltz on the red carpet at Westfield shopping centre for the premiere of circus love story Water For Elephants. But the screaming and sobbing girls only had eyes for Robert.
He said of his hysterical fans, some of whom began queuing at 6am outside the shopping centre to get a front-row position: "It's nuts!"
And commenting on his global celebrity status, Pattinson said: "It's weird, but it can be fun. I used to go shopping in this place and now it's crazy.
"I guess you kind of adapt to it a little bit. Just keep working all the time and...
- 5/4/2011
- by David Bentley
- The Geek Files
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Today sees the U.K. release of Water for Elephants, the romantic drama based on Sara Gruen’s bestselling novel of the same name, that has been adapted for the screen by Oscar nominated screenwriter Richard Lagravenese (The Bridges of Madison County, The Horse Whisperer) and director Francis Lawrence (Constantine, I Am Legend).
Set in 1930s Depression era America, Twilight’s Robert Pattinson leads as Jacob Jankowski, a happy and privileged young man studying for a degree in veterinary science at Cornell, his life is turned upside down when his parents are killed in a tragic car accident. Orphaned and homeless (Jacob learns that his parents had remortgaged the family home in order to pay his tuition fees), he takes to the road and jumps aboard the first passing train that he sees. In a strange twist of fate, this isn’t just any train but...
Today sees the U.K. release of Water for Elephants, the romantic drama based on Sara Gruen’s bestselling novel of the same name, that has been adapted for the screen by Oscar nominated screenwriter Richard Lagravenese (The Bridges of Madison County, The Horse Whisperer) and director Francis Lawrence (Constantine, I Am Legend).
Set in 1930s Depression era America, Twilight’s Robert Pattinson leads as Jacob Jankowski, a happy and privileged young man studying for a degree in veterinary science at Cornell, his life is turned upside down when his parents are killed in a tragic car accident. Orphaned and homeless (Jacob learns that his parents had remortgaged the family home in order to pay his tuition fees), he takes to the road and jumps aboard the first passing train that he sees. In a strange twist of fate, this isn’t just any train but...
- 5/4/2011
- by Charlotte Lee
- Obsessed with Film
Water For Elephants **
Stars: Robert Pattinson, Reese Witherspoon, Christoph Waltz, Hal Holbrook | Written by Richard Lagravenese (screenplay), Sara Gruen (novel) | Directed by Francis Lawrence
Roll up, roll up! See what Robert Pattinson does in between filming the latest instalment of Twilight! Water For Elephants is an incredibly familiar yarn that wouldn’t be out of place showing at Sunday matinée and its A-list cast seem to be the only thing that will guarantee it the most fleeting of spotlights.
86-year old Jacob Jankowki (the marvellous Hal Holbrook) wanders nostalgically around a circus parking lot gazing wistfully at the tents. The young owner takes him inside only to find out that the Jacob is an old circus hand himself who survived a famous disaster in the 1930s and sits down to hear the tale of the Benzini Brothers Circus which sets up one long flashback (in a cinematic move that should...
Stars: Robert Pattinson, Reese Witherspoon, Christoph Waltz, Hal Holbrook | Written by Richard Lagravenese (screenplay), Sara Gruen (novel) | Directed by Francis Lawrence
Roll up, roll up! See what Robert Pattinson does in between filming the latest instalment of Twilight! Water For Elephants is an incredibly familiar yarn that wouldn’t be out of place showing at Sunday matinée and its A-list cast seem to be the only thing that will guarantee it the most fleeting of spotlights.
86-year old Jacob Jankowki (the marvellous Hal Holbrook) wanders nostalgically around a circus parking lot gazing wistfully at the tents. The young owner takes him inside only to find out that the Jacob is an old circus hand himself who survived a famous disaster in the 1930s and sits down to hear the tale of the Benzini Brothers Circus which sets up one long flashback (in a cinematic move that should...
- 5/4/2011
- by Jez Sands
- Nerdly
There will inevitably be those weeping into their Sara Gruen novel of the same name after writer Richard Lagravenese’s film adaptation – even though the author swears nothing in the screen version diminishes her best-selling tale. And on the whole, Gruen is right.
Water For Elephants recreates the story’s magical, old-fashioned love affair full of colour, beauty, honour and courage that sweeps you up on a journey of optimism and peril, within the fascinating microcosm of a 1930s circus troupe. Lagravenese’s vision indeed stays faithful to the feel of the 2006 book, even if chunks of the latter have been hacked to bring 14 hours reading time down to nearly two, and some characters have been altered.
It’s a tale of forbidden love: Jake Jankowski (Hal Holbrook), a 93-year-old former circus worker and ex-veterinary student recalls his days at the struggling Benzini Brothers Circus in 1930s’, Depression-era America. A...
Water For Elephants recreates the story’s magical, old-fashioned love affair full of colour, beauty, honour and courage that sweeps you up on a journey of optimism and peril, within the fascinating microcosm of a 1930s circus troupe. Lagravenese’s vision indeed stays faithful to the feel of the 2006 book, even if chunks of the latter have been hacked to bring 14 hours reading time down to nearly two, and some characters have been altered.
It’s a tale of forbidden love: Jake Jankowski (Hal Holbrook), a 93-year-old former circus worker and ex-veterinary student recalls his days at the struggling Benzini Brothers Circus in 1930s’, Depression-era America. A...
- 5/4/2011
- by Lisa Giles-Keddie
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Source: FilmShaft - Water For Elephants – Review
Water For Elephants is based on a best selling book by Sara Gruen and stars Robert Pattinson as Jacob, poised on the edge of life, about to take his final exams that will enable him to become a qualified vet. The film is told in flashback and we meet Jacob as an old man when he embarks on telling his story to a young circus manager. It segues into 1931 quite seamlessly, and although it's a much used technique, it fits the tone and style of the film perfectly.
The shadow of the Great Depression and Prohibition eras weighs quite heavily on the film, taking place only two years after the now infamous Wall Street Crash. Jacob is ready to take his first steps into the working world and then, tragedy strikes and his parents are killed in a car accident. He doesn't finish...
Water For Elephants is based on a best selling book by Sara Gruen and stars Robert Pattinson as Jacob, poised on the edge of life, about to take his final exams that will enable him to become a qualified vet. The film is told in flashback and we meet Jacob as an old man when he embarks on telling his story to a young circus manager. It segues into 1931 quite seamlessly, and although it's a much used technique, it fits the tone and style of the film perfectly.
The shadow of the Great Depression and Prohibition eras weighs quite heavily on the film, taking place only two years after the now infamous Wall Street Crash. Jacob is ready to take his first steps into the working world and then, tragedy strikes and his parents are killed in a car accident. He doesn't finish...
- 5/2/2011
- by Cheryl Carter
- FilmShaft.com
Weekend box office sees Fast Five franchise record. Vin Diesel, Paul Walker starrer is the best opener of the year. Universal's latest installment in the Fast and Furious series of actioners, went on to pass the $80 million mark after turning in over $33 million on Friday. Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Dwayne Johnson, Jordana Brewster, Chris "Ludacris" Bridges and Tyrese Gibson starrer debuted in 3,644 theaters, grossing $83.6 million at an average of $22,950 per venue. In second place, 20th Century Fox's Rio animated pic added $14.4 in its third weekend, bringing its use cume to over $103.6 million. Tyler Perry's Madea's Big Happy Family from Lionsgate showed a 60% change in its sophomore weekend box office run, grossing $10 million. Third-placed comedy's total cume is over $41 million thus far. In fourth, Fox's Water for Elephants drama directed by Francis Lawrence and starring Robert Pattinson, Reese Witherspoon and Christoph Waltz, earned $9.1 million. Richard Lagravanese directs from the novel by Sara Gruen.
- 5/1/2011
- Upcoming-Movies.com
Weekend box office sees Fast Five franchise record. Vin Diesel, Paul Walker starrer is the best opener of the year. Universal's latest installment in the Fast and Furious series of actioners, went on to pass the $80 million mark after turning in over $33 million on Friday. Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Dwayne Johnson, Jordana Brewster, Chris "Ludacris" Bridges and Tyrese Gibson starrer debuted in 3,644 theaters, grossing $83.6 million at an average of $22,950 per venue. In second place, 20th Century Fox's Rio animated pic added $14.4 in its third weekend, bringing its use cume to over $103.6 million. Tyler Perry's Madea's Big Happy Family from Lionsgate showed a 60% change in its sophomore weekend box office run, grossing $10 million. Third-placed comedy's total cume is over $41 million thus far. In fourth, Fox's Water for Elephants drama directed by Francis Lawrence and starring Robert Pattinson, Reese Witherspoon and Christoph Waltz, earned $9.1 million. Richard Lagravanese directs from the novel by Sara Gruen.
- 5/1/2011
- Upcoming-Movies.com
Weekend box office sees Fast Five franchise record. Vin Diesel, Paul Walker starrer is the best opener of the year. Universal's latest installment in the Fast and Furious series of actioners, went on to pass the $80 million mark after turning in over $33 million on Friday. Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Dwayne Johnson, Jordana Brewster, Chris "Ludacris" Bridges and Tyrese Gibson starrer debuted in 3,644 theaters, grossing $83.6 million at an average of $22,950 per venue. In second place, 20th Century Fox's Rio animated pic added $14.4 in its third weekend, bringing its use cume to over $103.6 million. Tyler Perry's Madea's Big Happy Family from Lionsgate showed a 60% change in its sophomore weekend box office run, grossing $10 million. Third-placed comedy's total cume is over $41 million thus far. In fourth, Fox's Water for Elephants drama directed by Francis Lawrence and starring Robert Pattinson, Reese Witherspoon and Christoph Waltz, earned $9.1 million. Richard Lagravanese directs from the novel by Sara Gruen.
- 5/1/2011
- Upcoming-Movies.com
Weekend box office sees Fast Five franchise record. Vin Diesel, Paul Walker starrer is the best opener of the year. Universal's latest installment in the Fast and Furious series of actioners, went on to pass the $80 million mark after turning in over $33 million on Friday. Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Dwayne Johnson, Jordana Brewster, Chris "Ludacris" Bridges and Tyrese Gibson starrer debuted in 3,644 theaters, grossing $83.6 million at an average of $22,950 per venue. In second place, 20th Century Fox's Rio animated pic added $14.4 in its third weekend, bringing its use cume to over $103.6 million. Tyler Perry's Madea's Big Happy Family from Lionsgate showed a 60% change in its sophomore weekend box office run, grossing $10 million. Third-placed comedy's total cume is over $41 million thus far. In fourth, Fox's Water for Elephants drama directed by Francis Lawrence and starring Robert Pattinson, Reese Witherspoon and Christoph Waltz, earned $9.1 million. Richard Lagravanese directs from the novel by Sara Gruen.
- 5/1/2011
- Upcoming-Movies.com
It stars Robert Pattinson, Reese Witherspoon, Christoph Waltz, and a massive elephant called Rosie. It's Water For Elephants, and here's our review...
Sometimes, a great villain can make a movie, bringing a much-needed edge to what could be a forgettable piece of cinema. That’s certainly the case with Water For Elephants, an otherwise gentle romantic drama whose structure owes a little to James Cameron’s 90s blockbuster, Titanic.
Like Cameron’s film, it’s a period weepie told in flashback, a swooning tale of love and tragedy, set against the backdrop of a 30s circus rather than a doomed ship on its maiden voyage.
Where Titanic was let down somewhat by its one-dimensional, moustache-twiddling villain (played by Billy Zane), Water For Elephants benefits from a startling, nuanced performance from the great Christoph Waltz.
Robert Pattinson is the nominal lead as Jacob, a young veterinary student whose parents’ sudden and...
Sometimes, a great villain can make a movie, bringing a much-needed edge to what could be a forgettable piece of cinema. That’s certainly the case with Water For Elephants, an otherwise gentle romantic drama whose structure owes a little to James Cameron’s 90s blockbuster, Titanic.
Like Cameron’s film, it’s a period weepie told in flashback, a swooning tale of love and tragedy, set against the backdrop of a 30s circus rather than a doomed ship on its maiden voyage.
Where Titanic was let down somewhat by its one-dimensional, moustache-twiddling villain (played by Billy Zane), Water For Elephants benefits from a startling, nuanced performance from the great Christoph Waltz.
Robert Pattinson is the nominal lead as Jacob, a young veterinary student whose parents’ sudden and...
- 4/28/2011
- Den of Geek
By Sean O’Connell
Hollywoodnews.com: Francis Lawrence’s adaptation of the wildly popular “Water for Elephants” might not have performed up to expectations (the film earned $16.8 million in its debut weekend), but does that mean the film’s lead, Robert Pattinson deserves a Razzie?
Hardly. But that didn’t stop Tom O’Neil from asking L.A. Times readers if the frequently nominated “Twilight” star will suffer a similar fate when the anti-Oscars are announced later this year.
As O’Neil notes, Pattinson has been nominated for three Razzies for his performances in the “Twilight” saga and the romance-drama “Remember Me.”
But Pattinson wasn’t the problem with “Elephants,” which made a few changes to Sara Gruen’s book and might have alienated the novel’s core support group.
Anyway, O’Neil’s poll can be found at Awards Tracker, while Pattinson next can be seen in “The Twilight...
Hollywoodnews.com: Francis Lawrence’s adaptation of the wildly popular “Water for Elephants” might not have performed up to expectations (the film earned $16.8 million in its debut weekend), but does that mean the film’s lead, Robert Pattinson deserves a Razzie?
Hardly. But that didn’t stop Tom O’Neil from asking L.A. Times readers if the frequently nominated “Twilight” star will suffer a similar fate when the anti-Oscars are announced later this year.
As O’Neil notes, Pattinson has been nominated for three Razzies for his performances in the “Twilight” saga and the romance-drama “Remember Me.”
But Pattinson wasn’t the problem with “Elephants,” which made a few changes to Sara Gruen’s book and might have alienated the novel’s core support group.
Anyway, O’Neil’s poll can be found at Awards Tracker, while Pattinson next can be seen in “The Twilight...
- 4/26/2011
- by Sean O'Connell
- Hollywoodnews.com
By Pete Hammond
HollywoodNews.com: Continuing a very good first quarter of 2011 for adult-themed fare, 20th Century Fox’s big screen adaptation of the Sara Gruen best seller, Water For Elephants scored an encouraging third place opening (behind Rio and Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Big Happy Family) an estimated $17.5 million and garnered a very promising A- rating from Cinemascore meaning the largely older (25 and up) female audience it drew liked what they saw and with a $7 million first day haul were clearly eager to see it as it dropped slightly (about $500,000) from Friday to Saturday, unusual for such an adult skewing movie. Usually for the slow-to-show older audience it’s the opposite especially as word of mouth and positive critics reviews kick in. In terms of the latter Elephants scored only a middling 52% among all critics and even less , 44%, among so-caled top critics checking in with Rotten Tomatoes. The...
HollywoodNews.com: Continuing a very good first quarter of 2011 for adult-themed fare, 20th Century Fox’s big screen adaptation of the Sara Gruen best seller, Water For Elephants scored an encouraging third place opening (behind Rio and Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Big Happy Family) an estimated $17.5 million and garnered a very promising A- rating from Cinemascore meaning the largely older (25 and up) female audience it drew liked what they saw and with a $7 million first day haul were clearly eager to see it as it dropped slightly (about $500,000) from Friday to Saturday, unusual for such an adult skewing movie. Usually for the slow-to-show older audience it’s the opposite especially as word of mouth and positive critics reviews kick in. In terms of the latter Elephants scored only a middling 52% among all critics and even less , 44%, among so-caled top critics checking in with Rotten Tomatoes. The...
- 4/25/2011
- by Pete Hammond
- Hollywoodnews.com
Spoiler Alert! If you haven’t seen Water for Elephants (or read the novel it’s based on), stop reading now. As the headline suggests, we’re discussing the ending.
I hadn’t read Sara Gruen’s novel when I went to see the movie. Judging from the talk of a famous circus disaster, and shot of Reese Witherspoon atop an elephant during a crowd stampede in the trailer, I wasn’t expecting her character, Marlena, the star attraction and wife of the cruel ringmaster August (Christoph Waltz), to live. Add in Hal Holbrook — as the elderly version of Robert Pattinson...
I hadn’t read Sara Gruen’s novel when I went to see the movie. Judging from the talk of a famous circus disaster, and shot of Reese Witherspoon atop an elephant during a crowd stampede in the trailer, I wasn’t expecting her character, Marlena, the star attraction and wife of the cruel ringmaster August (Christoph Waltz), to live. Add in Hal Holbrook — as the elderly version of Robert Pattinson...
- 4/25/2011
- by Mandi Bierly
- EW.com - PopWatch
20th Century Fox Robert Pattinson in “Water For Elephants”
Is there life after you’ve been undead?
The opening box-office for Robert Pattinson’s new film “Water for Elephants,” a romantic drama that’s set amid a traveling circus during the 1930s, shows the young heartthrob may have reach beyond his blockbuster vampire franchise “Twilight.” Based on Sara Gruen’s bestselling novel of the same name, the film adaptation earned a better than expected $17.5 million, according to early estimates from distributor 20th Century Fox.
Is there life after you’ve been undead?
The opening box-office for Robert Pattinson’s new film “Water for Elephants,” a romantic drama that’s set amid a traveling circus during the 1930s, shows the young heartthrob may have reach beyond his blockbuster vampire franchise “Twilight.” Based on Sara Gruen’s bestselling novel of the same name, the film adaptation earned a better than expected $17.5 million, according to early estimates from distributor 20th Century Fox.
- 4/25/2011
- by Anthony Kaufman
- Speakeasy/Wall Street Journal
From MTV Movies: The box office got a boost from kids over the holiday weekend as "Rio" held on to the top spot with moviegoers and the Easter-themed "Hop" crossed the $100 million mark, according to studio estimates. Overall ticket sales were up 39 percent from the same period last year. Strengthened by 3-D showings, the animated "Rio" earned $26.8 million for a two-week domestic total of $81.2 million.
Filmmaker Tyler Perry has released three movies around Easter, and this year's entry, "Madea's Big Happy Family," sat right in the middle of his scorecard, with a $25.7 million debut ("Meet the Browns" opened with $20.1 million in 2008; "Why Did I Get Married Too?" made $29.3 million last year) but suffered the lowest debut of any of the entries in his poorly reviewed "Madea" series. Still, that was good enough to take the #2 spot for the weekend.
Robert Pattinson did double the business of his last non-"Twilight...
Filmmaker Tyler Perry has released three movies around Easter, and this year's entry, "Madea's Big Happy Family," sat right in the middle of his scorecard, with a $25.7 million debut ("Meet the Browns" opened with $20.1 million in 2008; "Why Did I Get Married Too?" made $29.3 million last year) but suffered the lowest debut of any of the entries in his poorly reviewed "Madea" series. Still, that was good enough to take the #2 spot for the weekend.
Robert Pattinson did double the business of his last non-"Twilight...
- 4/25/2011
- by MTV Movies Team
- MTV Movies Blog
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