This year’s Cannes is set to be the most activist-heavy yet. As well as potential protests around #MeToo and the Israel-Hamas war — not to mention a potential workers strike – animal rights activists are also hoping to make a splash during the festival.
“Orca – Black & White Gold,” a documentary about the international trade of endangered orcas, is set to screen next week as part of the Marché du Film. The screening, which is being organized with the help of non-profit organization The Blue Water Institute on May 20, will be followed by a Q&a with the film’s director and producer Sarah Nörenberg and Muriel Arnal, president of French animal rights Ngo OneVoice.
Variety understands part of the reason for screening the film in Cannes is to highlight the plight of three captive orcas at the Marineland animal park in nearby Antibes, which is just a 40 minute drive from the Palais des Festivals.
“Orca – Black & White Gold,” a documentary about the international trade of endangered orcas, is set to screen next week as part of the Marché du Film. The screening, which is being organized with the help of non-profit organization The Blue Water Institute on May 20, will be followed by a Q&a with the film’s director and producer Sarah Nörenberg and Muriel Arnal, president of French animal rights Ngo OneVoice.
Variety understands part of the reason for screening the film in Cannes is to highlight the plight of three captive orcas at the Marineland animal park in nearby Antibes, which is just a 40 minute drive from the Palais des Festivals.
- 5/15/2024
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
On Friday nights, IndieWire After Dark takes a feature-length beat to honor fringe cinema in the streaming age.
First, the spoiler-free pitch for one editor’s midnight movie pick — something weird and wonderful from any age of film that deserves our memorializing.
Then, the spoiler-filled aftermath as experienced by the unwitting editor attacked by this week’s recommendation.
The Pitch: Justice for Lori Petty!
One of cinema’s greatest action heroes is a fiercely feminist freedom fighter captured by an oppressive regime controlling the water supply of a post-apocalyptic landscape. Seeking revenge after her family was ripped from her, the heroine escapes the grasp of the army by stealing a vehicle of war, and ventures across the vast post-punk deserts of Australia with the ultimate goal of eventually slaying the white-haired tyrant who ruined her life.
No, I’m not talking about Furiosa, Charlize Theron’s iconic badass in “Mad Max: Fury Road.
First, the spoiler-free pitch for one editor’s midnight movie pick — something weird and wonderful from any age of film that deserves our memorializing.
Then, the spoiler-filled aftermath as experienced by the unwitting editor attacked by this week’s recommendation.
The Pitch: Justice for Lori Petty!
One of cinema’s greatest action heroes is a fiercely feminist freedom fighter captured by an oppressive regime controlling the water supply of a post-apocalyptic landscape. Seeking revenge after her family was ripped from her, the heroine escapes the grasp of the army by stealing a vehicle of war, and ventures across the vast post-punk deserts of Australia with the ultimate goal of eventually slaying the white-haired tyrant who ruined her life.
No, I’m not talking about Furiosa, Charlize Theron’s iconic badass in “Mad Max: Fury Road.
- 5/4/2024
- by Wilson Chapman and Alison Foreman
- Indiewire
The Top 10 performance episode of “American Idol” Season 22 aired on Sunday, April 28 on ABC, with the finalists giving it their all in front of host Ryan Seacrest and judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie. Viewers all across the nation voted nearly 21 million times throughout the two-hour episode, as guest mentor Shania Twain helped the contestants with their song choices from the years of their birth. In the end, only the Top 8 artists made it to the next round, with Kayko and Mia Matthews both being eliminated.
Throughout the competition, Kayko warbled tunes like “Time of Your Life” (Auditions round), “Gives You Hell” (Showstopper round), “How to Live Without You” (Top 24 round), “Over You”, “What If?”, “High & Dry” (Top 14 round), “Somebody That I Used to Know” (Top 12 round) and “Teenage Dirtbag” (Top 10 round). The 23-year-old songwriter and producer was an accidental “Idol” contestant, as he was only supposed to...
Throughout the competition, Kayko warbled tunes like “Time of Your Life” (Auditions round), “Gives You Hell” (Showstopper round), “How to Live Without You” (Top 24 round), “Over You”, “What If?”, “High & Dry” (Top 14 round), “Somebody That I Used to Know” (Top 12 round) and “Teenage Dirtbag” (Top 10 round). The 23-year-old songwriter and producer was an accidental “Idol” contestant, as he was only supposed to...
- 4/29/2024
- by Marcus James Dixon
- Gold Derby
April Ferry, the Oscar-nominated and Emmy-winning costume designer known for her work on Big Trouble in Little China, Maverick, Rome and Game of Thrones, died Thursday, the Costume Designers Guild announced. She was 91.
Ferry, who graduated to costume designer on Lawrence Kasdan’s The Big Chill (1983), collaborated with John Hughes on Planes, Trains & Automobiles (1987), She’s Having a Baby (1988) and Flubber (1997) and with Jonathan Mostow on U-571 (2000), Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines (2003) and Surrogates (2009).
She received her Academy Award nom for Richard Donner’s reimagining of Maverick (1994) — she lost out to Lizzy Gardiner and Tim Chappel of The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert on Oscar night — and won her Emmy in 2006 for HBO’s Rome.
Her résumé also included Made in Heaven (1987), Child’s Play (1988), The Babe (1992), Donner’s Radio Flyer (1992), Unlawful Entry (1992), Free Willy (1993), Beethoven’s 2nd (1993), Little Giants (1994), Donnie Darko (2001), Elysium (2013), RoboCop (2014) and Jurassic World (2015).
In 2014, she...
Ferry, who graduated to costume designer on Lawrence Kasdan’s The Big Chill (1983), collaborated with John Hughes on Planes, Trains & Automobiles (1987), She’s Having a Baby (1988) and Flubber (1997) and with Jonathan Mostow on U-571 (2000), Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines (2003) and Surrogates (2009).
She received her Academy Award nom for Richard Donner’s reimagining of Maverick (1994) — she lost out to Lizzy Gardiner and Tim Chappel of The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert on Oscar night — and won her Emmy in 2006 for HBO’s Rome.
Her résumé also included Made in Heaven (1987), Child’s Play (1988), The Babe (1992), Donner’s Radio Flyer (1992), Unlawful Entry (1992), Free Willy (1993), Beethoven’s 2nd (1993), Little Giants (1994), Donnie Darko (2001), Elysium (2013), RoboCop (2014) and Jurassic World (2015).
In 2014, she...
- 1/12/2024
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The perception of orcas has changed a lot in the past few decades. Though revered by some cultures (such as several Native American tribes and the Ainu of Japan), they've historically shared the bad reputation of sharks — there's a reason the name "killer whale" endured.
Then in the 1960s, scientists began studying these animals up close and perception slowly changed. While orcas are apex predators, they have no documented interest in hunting humans; if anything, they're playful. They're also some of the smartest animals around, with intelligence comparable to great apes; they communicate with each other and different pods have different languages.
This change in perception can be seen in film. In 1977, "Orca" was a "Jaws" knock-off that depicted a killer whale as a modern Moby Dick. By 1993, an orca became the star of a family movie: "Free Willy." I've not revisited "Free Willy" in over a decade, but it is a childhood favorite.
Then in the 1960s, scientists began studying these animals up close and perception slowly changed. While orcas are apex predators, they have no documented interest in hunting humans; if anything, they're playful. They're also some of the smartest animals around, with intelligence comparable to great apes; they communicate with each other and different pods have different languages.
This change in perception can be seen in film. In 1977, "Orca" was a "Jaws" knock-off that depicted a killer whale as a modern Moby Dick. By 1993, an orca became the star of a family movie: "Free Willy." I've not revisited "Free Willy" in over a decade, but it is a childhood favorite.
- 10/3/2023
- by Devin Meenan
- Slash Film
Over the course of a directing career that has lasted almost forty years so far, Dwight H. Little has brought us some very cool movies, with his credits including The Phantom of the Opera (starring Robert Englund), the Steven Seagal vehicle Marked for Death, Rapid Fire (starring Brandon Lee), Free Willy 2, the Wesley Snipes mystery Murder at 1600, Anacondas: The Hunt for the Blood Orchid, Tekken, and my favorite of the Halloween sequels, Halloween 4: The Return of Michael Myers. He has also directed a whole lot of television, taking the helm of episodes of shows like Freddy’s Nightmares, Millennium, The X-Files, The Practice, 24, Prison Break, Castle, Nikita, Arrow, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Sleepy Hollow, From Dusk Till Dawn: The Series, Bones, Scorpion, and 9-1-1. Now he has written a memoir called Still Rolling: Inside the Hollywood Dream Factory – and copies can be purchased at This Link!
Still Rolling has a...
Still Rolling has a...
- 9/25/2023
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
Exclusive: The Austin Film Festival has set producer Lauren Shuler Donner, writer-producer James V. Hart and filmmaker So Young Shelly Yo as honorees of its 30th edition, taking place from October 26 – November 2.
Donner will receive the Polly Platt Award for Producing, with Hart claiming the the Heart of Film Award and Shelly accepting the New Voice Award.
Introduced in 2019 as a means of honoring producers with a keen sense of story and a history of fostering new talent, the Producing prize has previously been bestowed upon Dede Garner, Stephanie Allain and Sarah Green.
Coming in recognition of Hart’s contributions to film and television, as well as his service to the screenwriting community, the Heart of Film Award has also since 2013 been bestowed on the likes of Enchanted producer Barry Josephson and Beverly Hills Cop scribe Daniel Petrie Jr.
Also established in 2019 was the New Voice Award, recognizing unique and captivating new voices in film,...
Donner will receive the Polly Platt Award for Producing, with Hart claiming the the Heart of Film Award and Shelly accepting the New Voice Award.
Introduced in 2019 as a means of honoring producers with a keen sense of story and a history of fostering new talent, the Producing prize has previously been bestowed upon Dede Garner, Stephanie Allain and Sarah Green.
Coming in recognition of Hart’s contributions to film and television, as well as his service to the screenwriting community, the Heart of Film Award has also since 2013 been bestowed on the likes of Enchanted producer Barry Josephson and Beverly Hills Cop scribe Daniel Petrie Jr.
Also established in 2019 was the New Voice Award, recognizing unique and captivating new voices in film,...
- 8/8/2023
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
With its list of new releases for July 2023, Prime Video is going to help you stay safe from the oppressive July sun.
Highlighting the Amazon Originals on the TV side this month are two heavy hitters. The first is The Horror of Dolores Roach on July 7. Based on a podcast of the same name, this series could best be described as a modern day Sweeney Todd? Why, you ask? Well you know why. Think about it. Then season 2 of Neil Gaiman adaptation Good Omens premieres on July 28. This season will follow angel Aziraphale (Michael Sheen) and demon Crowley (David Tenant) as they seek to keep the Archangel Gabriel (Jon Hamm) away from both heaven and hell.
There aren’t any Amazon Original movies of note this month and that’s alright as the influx of library titles is more than enough. July 1 sees the arrival of The 40-Year-Old Virgin, No Country for Old Men,...
Highlighting the Amazon Originals on the TV side this month are two heavy hitters. The first is The Horror of Dolores Roach on July 7. Based on a podcast of the same name, this series could best be described as a modern day Sweeney Todd? Why, you ask? Well you know why. Think about it. Then season 2 of Neil Gaiman adaptation Good Omens premieres on July 28. This season will follow angel Aziraphale (Michael Sheen) and demon Crowley (David Tenant) as they seek to keep the Archangel Gabriel (Jon Hamm) away from both heaven and hell.
There aren’t any Amazon Original movies of note this month and that’s alright as the influx of library titles is more than enough. July 1 sees the arrival of The 40-Year-Old Virgin, No Country for Old Men,...
- 7/1/2023
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
While summer starts in June, things truly heat up in July, and that includes all the hot new drops on streamers. Amazon’s Prime Video has refreshed its slate of content with over 60 new movies, like Bradley Cooper’s “A Star Is Born” and the 1973 animated adaption of the children’s book “Charlotte’s Web.”
Prime Video kicks off the start of the month with Doug McHenry’s “Jason’s Lyric,” “Father of the Bride,” and “Little Nicky.”
Plus, if you’re a Reese Witherspoon fan, Prime Video sets you up with her very first film and her breakout role as Dani in “Man in the Moon.” And the entire “Legally Blonde” trilogy is also available, for those who bend and snap.
Prime Video is also giving watchers some ultimate film classics like “Free Willy,” ”Gladiator,” and “Dances With Wolves.”
Last but absolutely not least, Season 2 of “Good Omens” will land on...
Prime Video kicks off the start of the month with Doug McHenry’s “Jason’s Lyric,” “Father of the Bride,” and “Little Nicky.”
Plus, if you’re a Reese Witherspoon fan, Prime Video sets you up with her very first film and her breakout role as Dani in “Man in the Moon.” And the entire “Legally Blonde” trilogy is also available, for those who bend and snap.
Prime Video is also giving watchers some ultimate film classics like “Free Willy,” ”Gladiator,” and “Dances With Wolves.”
Last but absolutely not least, Season 2 of “Good Omens” will land on...
- 6/30/2023
- by Raquel "Rocky" Harris
- The Wrap
Prime Video has adapted the one-woman podcast “Empanada Loca” into a new series. “The Horror of Dolores Roach” will begin streaming on the service on July 7. Buckle up, because this one is gruesome. Roach (Justina Machado) returns to a gentrified Washington Heights after a long prison sentence and works as a masseuse in the basement of a friend’s empanada shop. But when her security is threatened, Roach is driven to extremes to survive.
Watch “The Horror of Dolores Roach” trailer:
Season 2 of “Good Omens” also will premiere on Prime Video in July. Arriving July 28, the series focuses on the friendship between Aziraphale (Michael Sheen), a fussy angel and rare-book dealer, and the snarky demon Crowley (David Tennant). While the Apocalypse has been averted, the pair are back living their lives in London, until the archangel Gabriel shows up. The series is based on the novel by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett.
Watch “The Horror of Dolores Roach” trailer:
Season 2 of “Good Omens” also will premiere on Prime Video in July. Arriving July 28, the series focuses on the friendship between Aziraphale (Michael Sheen), a fussy angel and rare-book dealer, and the snarky demon Crowley (David Tennant). While the Apocalypse has been averted, the pair are back living their lives in London, until the archangel Gabriel shows up. The series is based on the novel by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett.
- 6/26/2023
- by Fern Siegel
- The Streamable
Before the SeaWorld Kills movement, we had Free Willy, the 1993 film whose emotional ending taught us that maybe, just maybe, orcas shouldn’t live in tiny pools. Of course, 30 years ago CGI wasn’t what it is now, and in a new interview, director Simon Wincer revealed how, exactly, they made Free Willy possible: a rocket launcher.
“I remember saying to my agent: ‘If I can deliver the finale — where the whale leaps to freedom — we’ve got a movie,'” Wincer told The Guardian. “We had so many meetings about how the hell we were going to do it. It was the early days of CGI so we shot at high tide in a small harbour — and literally built a rocket launcher with an animatronic whale on it. It would fly out of the water and come to a stop then CGI would take over. Like any pivotal movie moment,...
“I remember saying to my agent: ‘If I can deliver the finale — where the whale leaps to freedom — we’ve got a movie,'” Wincer told The Guardian. “We had so many meetings about how the hell we were going to do it. It was the early days of CGI so we shot at high tide in a small harbour — and literally built a rocket launcher with an animatronic whale on it. It would fly out of the water and come to a stop then CGI would take over. Like any pivotal movie moment,...
- 6/12/2023
- by Carys Anderson
- Consequence - Film News
Vertical has secured North America, United Kingdom, and Ireland rights to “Natty Knocks,” a new horror film from Dwight H. Little, the director of “Halloween 4.” The film’s casts includes a collection of horror all-stars such as Bill Moseley (“The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2”), Danielle Harris (“Halloween”) and Robert Englund (“A Nightmare on Elm Street”).
“Natty Knocks” unspools on Halloween Eve, as a small-town babysitter and the kids she is looking after struggle to survive a serial killer named Abner Honeywell. Vertical has slated the film for a day-and-date release on July 21.
The screenplay was penned by Benjamin Olson. The cast also includes Charlotte Fountain-Jardim (“The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel”), Thomas Robie (“Insidious: The Last Key”), Noen Perez (“Grace and Frankie”) and Jason James Richter (“Free Willy”). The film’s executive producers are Amit Sarin and Vineesha Arora Sarin; producers are Jason Richer and Sandy Little.
Vertical SVP of Acquisitions Tony Piantedosi commented,...
“Natty Knocks” unspools on Halloween Eve, as a small-town babysitter and the kids she is looking after struggle to survive a serial killer named Abner Honeywell. Vertical has slated the film for a day-and-date release on July 21.
The screenplay was penned by Benjamin Olson. The cast also includes Charlotte Fountain-Jardim (“The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel”), Thomas Robie (“Insidious: The Last Key”), Noen Perez (“Grace and Frankie”) and Jason James Richter (“Free Willy”). The film’s executive producers are Amit Sarin and Vineesha Arora Sarin; producers are Jason Richer and Sandy Little.
Vertical SVP of Acquisitions Tony Piantedosi commented,...
- 5/23/2023
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Following episode 14 two weeks ago, we asked in a poll which of the final four queens of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” season 15 should be crowned “America’s next drag superstar.” At the time of this writing, over 900 votes had been cast in favor of Anetra, amounting to 50% of the total vote. The “Grand Finale” of season 15 will air this Friday, April 15 where either Anetra, Luxx Noir London, Mistress Isabelle Brooks, or Sasha Colby will be crowned and earn this year’s $200,000 cash prize.
Here are the complete results in the “Who do you want to win?” poll:
50% Anetra
38% Sasha Colby
6% Mistress Isabelle Brooks
5% Luxx Noir London
1% Other
It’s fitting that fans are have so much love for Anetra and Sasha. They are the two queens largely recognized by the rest of the cast as the strongest performers in their group. They basically broke the internet when they went head to...
Here are the complete results in the “Who do you want to win?” poll:
50% Anetra
38% Sasha Colby
6% Mistress Isabelle Brooks
5% Luxx Noir London
1% Other
It’s fitting that fans are have so much love for Anetra and Sasha. They are the two queens largely recognized by the rest of the cast as the strongest performers in their group. They basically broke the internet when they went head to...
- 4/13/2023
- by John Benutty
- Gold Derby
Anything you can do, I can do better – but not always. Television and movie franchises have existed since the beginning of Hollywood and have only become more prominent as the decades have flown by. Some of those franchises have gone on to become universal successes while others were dead upon arrival. Regardless of how the franchises might ultimately end up doing on their first go-around, there’s usually a director, writer, or producer out there that thinks they could have done it better – and they’re very rarely correct.
Reboots have become a typical standard within the confines of Hollywood over the last couple of decades and, unfortunately, have given audiences some of the worst movies in history. Whether it be a lackluster script that entirely mimics the project they’re trying to recreate or an out-of-touch creative who completely ignores the source material and makes a “reboot” that has...
Reboots have become a typical standard within the confines of Hollywood over the last couple of decades and, unfortunately, have given audiences some of the worst movies in history. Whether it be a lackluster script that entirely mimics the project they’re trying to recreate or an out-of-touch creative who completely ignores the source material and makes a “reboot” that has...
- 2/25/2023
- by Jon Meschutt
- JoBlo.com
Gene Wilder Saw Tim Burton's Charlie And The Chocolate Factory As More Of An 'Insult' Than An Homage
Roald Dahl's beloved novel "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" has been re-imagined countless times over the years. The first film adaptation, titled "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory," was released in 1971 and starred Gene Wilder as the eponymous chocolatier. Decades later, director Tim Burton put his own spin on the children's tale with "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," starring Burton's long-time friend and collaborator Johnny Depp. The movie was a critical and financial hit, but not everyone was a fan. In fact, Wilder himself spoke out against the 2005 film.
Dahl's original story was a huge inspiration to Burton, but the director was let down by the '70s cinematic interpretation. "I didn't feel as daunted by the [first] movie," he told Blackfilm.com in 2005. Instead of using the 1971 film as a point of reference, Burton instead used Dahl's source material as a "blueprint" to guide his movie. "Our goal, except...
Dahl's original story was a huge inspiration to Burton, but the director was let down by the '70s cinematic interpretation. "I didn't feel as daunted by the [first] movie," he told Blackfilm.com in 2005. Instead of using the 1971 film as a point of reference, Burton instead used Dahl's source material as a "blueprint" to guide his movie. "Our goal, except...
- 11/15/2022
- by Shae Sennett
- Slash Film
Poor Michael Madsen. Ever since cutting off that cop's ear in "Reservoir Dogs," the veteran actor has had to be content with playing the villain. Even a role in family favorite "Free Willy" couldn't change the perception of the actor as a bad guy following his turn as Mr. Blonde in Quentin Tarantino's classic. That's despite his apparent desire to play the good guy. Madsen is (almost) always the villain — which is why he must have been pretty relieved to appear as a James Bond ally in "Die Another Day"... even if it was in "Die Another Day."
While the movie itself is remembered for its campy tone and generally ending Pierce Brosnan's tenure as Bond on a low note, it isn't without its highlights. And Madsen as Nsa agent Damian Falco just happens to be one of them. Between the ice palaces and truly abject CGI, Madsen's...
While the movie itself is remembered for its campy tone and generally ending Pierce Brosnan's tenure as Bond on a low note, it isn't without its highlights. And Madsen as Nsa agent Damian Falco just happens to be one of them. Between the ice palaces and truly abject CGI, Madsen's...
- 11/8/2022
- by Joe Roberts
- Slash Film
For years, Awesome Art We’ve Found Around The Net has been about two things only – awesome art and the artists that create it. With that in mind, we thought why not take the first week of the month to showcase these awesome artists even more? Welcome to “Awesome Artist We’ve Found Around The Net.” In this column, we are focusing on one artist and the awesome art that they create, whether they be amateur, up and coming, or well-established. The goal is to uncover these artists so even more people become familiar with them. We ask these artists a few questions to see their origins, influences, and more. If you are an awesome artist or know someone that should be featured, feel free to contact me at any time at theodorebond@joblo.com.This month we are very pleased to bring you the awesome art of…
Luke T...
Luke T...
- 11/5/2022
- by Theodore Bond
- JoBlo.com
Movie fans can now finally say “I see you” to the “Avatar” sequel. Or, at least, to a two-and-a-half-minute trailer that dropped early Wednesday morning.
Specifics of the plot are still a little vague, but if you thirst for aquamarine imagery of lanky creatures swimming, jumping, using bows, or speaking ominously about powerful forces, this is definitely for you. “Avatar: The Way of Water” once again stars Sam Worthington as Jake Sully, the human space marine turned Na’vi, and Zoe Saldaña as Princess Neytiri, leader of the naturalist indigenous species on Pandora. Sigourney Weaver is returning, and Kate Winslet is a new addition to the film, set about a decade after the events of the last movie.
The colorful trailer shows Jake and Neytiri’s children having special gifts that help them communicate with the planet, which will likely come in handy when evil forces arrive in those metal warships.
Specifics of the plot are still a little vague, but if you thirst for aquamarine imagery of lanky creatures swimming, jumping, using bows, or speaking ominously about powerful forces, this is definitely for you. “Avatar: The Way of Water” once again stars Sam Worthington as Jake Sully, the human space marine turned Na’vi, and Zoe Saldaña as Princess Neytiri, leader of the naturalist indigenous species on Pandora. Sigourney Weaver is returning, and Kate Winslet is a new addition to the film, set about a decade after the events of the last movie.
The colorful trailer shows Jake and Neytiri’s children having special gifts that help them communicate with the planet, which will likely come in handy when evil forces arrive in those metal warships.
- 11/2/2022
- by Jordan Hoffman
- Gold Derby
Luis Llosa's "Anaconda" recently made /Film's list of the most savage when-animals-attack horror movies, with Ryan Scott citing its memorable kills as the reason why it's "the ultimate '90s creature feature." The 1997 horror-adventure focuses on a documentary film crew that encounters a snake hunter in the Amazon rainforest, all while tracking a legendary green anaconda of mythic proportions. It features a slew of snakes and the star of the show, an animatronic anaconda designed by special effects supervisor Walt Conti, who previously engineered a full-size animatronic orca Willy of "Free Willy" and the miniature humpback whales of "Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home." The cast – among them Ice Cube, Jennifer Lopez, Jon Voight, and a baby-faced Owen Wilson – got cozy with lots of non-human co-stars, but local black wooly monkeys made both scouting and shooting a hazard.
Longtime film site Film Scouts shares insights on the production of "Anaconda"; therein,...
Longtime film site Film Scouts shares insights on the production of "Anaconda"; therein,...
- 10/31/2022
- by Anya Stanley
- Slash Film
Luis Llosa's 1997 creature feature "Anaconda" is one of those rare films that many people saw, but that few people love. Unapologetically reminiscent of monster movies from the 1950s, "Anaconda" was snarfed at by the general public, earning generally negative reviews (it currently holds a 40 approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes) and netting 11 Razzie nominations. It won none of its Razzies, "losing" to films like "The Postman" and "Batman & Robin." One may interpret the losses as a compliment or an insult. Despite the sour reception, "Anaconda" -- which starred Jennifer Lopez, Ice Cube, Danny Trejo, Eric Stoltz, Owen Wilson, and Jon Voight -- earned a massive 136 million on a mere 45 million budget. It was followed by four sequels, including a "Lake Placid" crossover film wherein the titular snake did battle with a giant crocodile.
The premise of "Anaconda" is about as complex as a cheap animal attack movie might warrant,...
The premise of "Anaconda" is about as complex as a cheap animal attack movie might warrant,...
- 10/30/2022
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Australia’s answer to the 2022 Oscar Best Picture winner Coda is here. I’m only half-joking. Blueback is a bit better than the movie that most recently won Best Picture at the Academy Awards, but it employs a similar sort of lightweight treatment of banner issues. Blueback has two major characteristics in its favor: the aquatic cinematography by Andrew Commis and Rick Rifici and that it’s satisfied with being a message movie for kids. It would be perfect to show in a middle school or elementary school classroom during substitute teacher day, like Free Willy, a choice selection when I was a kid. It’s completely inoffensive but also lacking emotional heft, a result of sloppy story structure and flashback-heavy plotting that may have worked well in the source novel by Tim Winton (who also wrote the screenplay), but drains the tension in this adaptation.
Abby and Dora (Radha Mitchell...
Abby and Dora (Radha Mitchell...
- 9/18/2022
- by Soham Gadre
- The Film Stage
"Star Trek: Lower Decks" is an endlessly enteraining show because it delights in showing off the many, many parts of "Star Trek" lore that past franchise installments never had time to explore. Sometimes, that means revisiting a kooky planet, but other times, the show digs deep into the unexplored intricacies of Starfleet life. This week's episode, "Room For Growth," sees the Cerritos crew exploring some of the lesser-known parts of their own ship, poking fun at the seemingly endless configuration of specialized rooms that have appeared in "Star Trek" ship layouts of the past.
The adventure begins when Boimler (Jack Quaid), Mariner (Tawny Newsome), Tendi (Noel Wells), and Rutherford (Eugene Cordero) discover that the Cerrito is having a room lottery, one that could land them some sweet, non-hallway digs where they don't have to worry about bedtime being interrupted by dramatic upper deck crew plotlines. When Captain Freeman (Dawnn Lewis) floats by,...
The adventure begins when Boimler (Jack Quaid), Mariner (Tawny Newsome), Tendi (Noel Wells), and Rutherford (Eugene Cordero) discover that the Cerrito is having a room lottery, one that could land them some sweet, non-hallway digs where they don't have to worry about bedtime being interrupted by dramatic upper deck crew plotlines. When Captain Freeman (Dawnn Lewis) floats by,...
- 9/15/2022
- by Valerie Ettenhofer
- Slash Film
When you think of Michael Madsen, what's the first image that comes to mind? Is it Reservoir Dogs' Mr. Blonde dancing to "Stuck in the Middle with You" while holding a severed ear? Maybe it's the washed-up assassin Budd burying Uma Thurman's The Bride alive? Whatever Madsen character you're seeing, there's a good chance he's not a hero. Madsen has made a career out of playing black hats and evil men.
According to Madsen, that has more to do with Hollywood typecasting than any preference to play sleazy roles (via The After Movie Diner). Before he made a name for himself by embodying quietly lethal but outwardly slick antagonists, he dreamed of portraying the good guy. But after his role in "Reservoir Dogs," every script that followed wanted to bring out the worst in Madsen. His notoriety hinges on the unsavory characters he's played -- he's even been introduced as Mr.
According to Madsen, that has more to do with Hollywood typecasting than any preference to play sleazy roles (via The After Movie Diner). Before he made a name for himself by embodying quietly lethal but outwardly slick antagonists, he dreamed of portraying the good guy. But after his role in "Reservoir Dogs," every script that followed wanted to bring out the worst in Madsen. His notoriety hinges on the unsavory characters he's played -- he's even been introduced as Mr.
- 9/14/2022
- by Steven Ward
- Slash Film
Kid-befriends-animal films have been a staple of the industry for ages. While a bit more niche, we’ve even seen blockbuster kid-befriends-sea-animal films, as well, with “Free Willy” leading the way. Now, we get another entry in the tried-and-true subgenre with “Blueback.”
As seen in the trailer, “Blueback” is a film about a young girl who dives into the ocean and meets a wild blue groper.
Continue reading ‘Blueback’ Trailer: Mia Wasikowska Wants To Save The Fish In Robert Connolly’s TIFF Drama at The Playlist.
As seen in the trailer, “Blueback” is a film about a young girl who dives into the ocean and meets a wild blue groper.
Continue reading ‘Blueback’ Trailer: Mia Wasikowska Wants To Save The Fish In Robert Connolly’s TIFF Drama at The Playlist.
- 9/7/2022
- by Charles Barfield
- The Playlist
When it was released in 1995, people didn’t quite know what to make of the film Tank Girl. It was based on a series of comic strips in a British magazine that was largely unknown to American audiences. And even though star Lori Petty had a string of hit movies in the early ’90s, including Point Break, A League of Their Own, and Free Willy, her presence in the film — along with co-stars Naomi Watts, Ice-t, and Malcolm McDowell — wasn’t enough to drive much interest in the movie, and it only made 6 million at the box office. Of course, as we’ve seen time and time again, yesterday’s edgy “ahead of their time” action movies often become today’s cult classics, and Tank Girl has found a new set of fans as an example of modern feminism on film. But what did Petty think about the movie? She...
- 8/16/2022
- by Hollywood Outbreak
- HollywoodOutbreak.com
Olivia Colman (“Landscapers”), Jessie Buckley (“Men”) and Luke Evans (“Crossing Swords”) will voice parts in Netflix’s CG animated feature “Scrooge: A Christmas Carol.”
The film is a supernatural, time-travelling, musical adaptation of the Charles Dickens’ beloved Christmas story. With his very soul on the line, Scrooge has but one Christmas Eve left to face his past and build a better future. Evans voices Scrooge, Colman voices the Ghost of Christmas Past, Buckley Isabel Fezziwig, Johnny Flynn Bob Cratchit, Fra Fee Harry Huffam), Giles Terera Tom Jenkins, Trevor Dion Nicholas the Ghost of Christmas Present, James Cosmo Mr. Fezziwig, and Jonathan Pryce voices Jacob Marley.
The film is directed by Stephen Donnelly (“Monster High: Welcome to Monster High”) and features re-imagined songs from the late two-time Oscar and Grammy winner Leslie Bricusse. The songs are arranged and produced by Jeremy Holland-Smith, who has also provided the original score.
Donnelly said:...
The film is a supernatural, time-travelling, musical adaptation of the Charles Dickens’ beloved Christmas story. With his very soul on the line, Scrooge has but one Christmas Eve left to face his past and build a better future. Evans voices Scrooge, Colman voices the Ghost of Christmas Past, Buckley Isabel Fezziwig, Johnny Flynn Bob Cratchit, Fra Fee Harry Huffam), Giles Terera Tom Jenkins, Trevor Dion Nicholas the Ghost of Christmas Present, James Cosmo Mr. Fezziwig, and Jonathan Pryce voices Jacob Marley.
The film is directed by Stephen Donnelly (“Monster High: Welcome to Monster High”) and features re-imagined songs from the late two-time Oscar and Grammy winner Leslie Bricusse. The songs are arranged and produced by Jeremy Holland-Smith, who has also provided the original score.
Donnelly said:...
- 7/20/2022
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Tommy Morgan, a harmonica soloist who contributed to hundreds of movie and TV shows including “Roots” and “Dances With Wolves,” died June 23. He was 89.
Morgan played on film soundtracks and record dates going back to the early 1950s. His estimated 7,000 recording sessions, according to statistics on his website, suggest that more people have heard his harmonica work than that of any other player of the instrument.
That’s Morgan’s harmonica on Quincy Jones’ “Sanford and Son” theme, Mike Post’s “Rockford Files” theme and the scores for numerous shows including “Maverick,” “The Waltons,” “The Dukes of Hazzard,” “China Beach,” “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “Family Guy.”
He played on the Emmy-winning score for “Roots” and its sequel, “Roots: The Next Generations.” And his bass harmonica was the signature sound of Arnold Ziffel, the pig on “Green Acres.”
In addition, Morgan played on dozens of classic films including “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers,...
Morgan played on film soundtracks and record dates going back to the early 1950s. His estimated 7,000 recording sessions, according to statistics on his website, suggest that more people have heard his harmonica work than that of any other player of the instrument.
That’s Morgan’s harmonica on Quincy Jones’ “Sanford and Son” theme, Mike Post’s “Rockford Files” theme and the scores for numerous shows including “Maverick,” “The Waltons,” “The Dukes of Hazzard,” “China Beach,” “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “Family Guy.”
He played on the Emmy-winning score for “Roots” and its sequel, “Roots: The Next Generations.” And his bass harmonica was the signature sound of Arnold Ziffel, the pig on “Green Acres.”
In addition, Morgan played on dozens of classic films including “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers,...
- 7/2/2022
- by Jon Burlingame
- Variety Film + TV
Salem’s Sanderson Sisters—Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimi—are back this Halloween in “Hocus Pocus 2” on Disney+. The streamer just launched the first teaser, which shows how two teen girls (Whitney Peak and Lilia Buckingham) resurrect the charmed triumvirate with some incantations and candles probably not purchased at Bed, Bath, and Beyond.
The 1993 original, directed by Kenny Ortega and written by Mick Garris and Neil Cuthbert, is a cult film in the truest sense of the word, and not just because of its occultist themes. The campy-spooky witch picture didn’t connect with critics at the time, and was a box office dud.
But the movie, which began its life as a story producer David Kirschner dreamed up as a bedtime story for his kids, eventually found its audience. Like the witches themselves, it had an afterlife, with repeat airings on ABC Family and the Disney Channel.
The 1993 original, directed by Kenny Ortega and written by Mick Garris and Neil Cuthbert, is a cult film in the truest sense of the word, and not just because of its occultist themes. The campy-spooky witch picture didn’t connect with critics at the time, and was a box office dud.
But the movie, which began its life as a story producer David Kirschner dreamed up as a bedtime story for his kids, eventually found its audience. Like the witches themselves, it had an afterlife, with repeat airings on ABC Family and the Disney Channel.
- 6/28/2022
- by Jordan Hoffman
- Gold Derby
Writer/Director Scott Derrickson returns to horror for the first time since 2004’s Deliver Us From Evil with this fun and feisty serial killer thriller, woven with finely crafted frights and punchy violence. Despite its 1978 North Denver setting, The Black Phone feels less of a trope loaded homage to ’70s/’80s horror, unlike other nostalgia loaded genre flicks of late, but more a film from the age it is set. It’s a bracing, character focused throwback with compelling arcs, spry humour and nifty scares, and the fantastically recreated era serving as nothing more than a pleasant backdrop to the unfurling terror.
Young teen Finney (Mason Thames) is processing his late mother’s death while receiving regular attacks from both school bullies and an alcoholic father. Meanwhile, Finney’s hot-headed younger sister Gwen (Madeleine McGraw) is having psychic visions of a local serial killer known as the Grabber (Ethan Hawke...
Young teen Finney (Mason Thames) is processing his late mother’s death while receiving regular attacks from both school bullies and an alcoholic father. Meanwhile, Finney’s hot-headed younger sister Gwen (Madeleine McGraw) is having psychic visions of a local serial killer known as the Grabber (Ethan Hawke...
- 6/20/2022
- by Daniel Goodwin
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
The musical Willy Wonka has mellowed out — 2022 Jack White giggles; 2022 Jack White hasn’t had sugar in two years; 2022 Jack White was transformed by the past two years.
“There’s been a complete rebirth on all levels of my life throughout the pandemic,” he says. “I made a goal to myself that no matter how long it lasted I was going to come out of it with a totally different scenario of looking at life.”
The evidence is in a new double album, of sorts, that spans the gamut of old-school White Stripes,...
“There’s been a complete rebirth on all levels of my life throughout the pandemic,” he says. “I made a goal to myself that no matter how long it lasted I was going to come out of it with a totally different scenario of looking at life.”
The evidence is in a new double album, of sorts, that spans the gamut of old-school White Stripes,...
- 3/14/2022
- by Brenna Ehrlich
- Rollingstone.com
With a new month upon us, that means Netflix is saying farewell to some favorite films in their library for the time being. And this month, there’s an unusual amount of good movies leaving Netflix. If you’re wondering what to watch before it’s gone, we’ve got a handy guide.
Fans of period dramas and family films, in particular, may find themselves with a lot to catch up on before it leaves Netflix. In the former category, films like “Howard’s End,” “Lawless,” “A River Runs Through It,” “Bright Star,” and “Braveheart” are all expiring in March.
But the Kids and Family section is taking a particularly big hit this month. Animated departures include “Kung Fu Panda,” “Despicable Me” and “Despicable Me 2,” “Happy Feet Two,” a handful of “Pokemon!” movies and series, and meme culture favorite “Bee Movie.” There are also several live-action family classics leaving Netflix in March as well,...
Fans of period dramas and family films, in particular, may find themselves with a lot to catch up on before it leaves Netflix. In the former category, films like “Howard’s End,” “Lawless,” “A River Runs Through It,” “Bright Star,” and “Braveheart” are all expiring in March.
But the Kids and Family section is taking a particularly big hit this month. Animated departures include “Kung Fu Panda,” “Despicable Me” and “Despicable Me 2,” “Happy Feet Two,” a handful of “Pokemon!” movies and series, and meme culture favorite “Bee Movie.” There are also several live-action family classics leaving Netflix in March as well,...
- 2/27/2022
- by Haleigh Foutch
- The Wrap
Netflix brings one of its biggest shows back to the streaming service in March with the return of “Bridgerton.” The second season of the 2021 Emmy Award nominee for Best Drama series debuts on March 25. But there are loads of other original shows and movies coming to Netflix in March 2022 – including the Ryan Reynolds blockbuster “The Adam Project” – plus legacy titles such as “Shrek,” “Top Gun,” “My Best Friend’s Wedding,” and “Dunkirk.” Here’s everything coming to Netflix in March 2022 and what’s leaving the service in March as well.
What’s new on Netflix in March 2022
Coming soon
800 Meters
Tomorrow
March 1
The Guardians of Justice
Worst Roommate Ever
21
21 Bridges
A Nightmare on Elm Street (2010)
A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
Battleship
Christine
Coach Carter
Due Date
Freddy vs. Jason
Gattaca
The Gift
Redemption
The Replacements
Richie RichThe Shawshank Redemption
Shooter
Shrek
Shrek 2
Sorry to Bother You
Starship Troopers
Texas Chainsaw 3D...
What’s new on Netflix in March 2022
Coming soon
800 Meters
Tomorrow
March 1
The Guardians of Justice
Worst Roommate Ever
21
21 Bridges
A Nightmare on Elm Street (2010)
A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
Battleship
Christine
Coach Carter
Due Date
Freddy vs. Jason
Gattaca
The Gift
Redemption
The Replacements
Richie RichThe Shawshank Redemption
Shooter
Shrek
Shrek 2
Sorry to Bother You
Starship Troopers
Texas Chainsaw 3D...
- 2/24/2022
- by Christopher Rosen
- Gold Derby
Grammy winner Meat Loaf, the “Bat Out of Hell” singer whose acting credits include the cult classic film Rocky Horror Picture Show and Syfy’s Ghost Wars, has died at the age of 74. A cause of death has not been disclosed.
“We know how much he meant to so many of you and we truly appreciate all of the love and support as we move through this time of grief in losing such an inspiring artist and beautiful man,” Meat Loaf’s family said in a statement to Deadline. “From his heart to your souls… don’t ever stop rocking!
“We know how much he meant to so many of you and we truly appreciate all of the love and support as we move through this time of grief in losing such an inspiring artist and beautiful man,” Meat Loaf’s family said in a statement to Deadline. “From his heart to your souls… don’t ever stop rocking!
- 1/21/2022
- by Ryan Schwartz
- TVLine.com
Netflix is ringing in the new year in atypical fashion. Throughout 2021, the streaming giant’s original offerings swelled while its library titles shrunk. With its list of new releases for January 2022, however, Netflix is expanding its non-original market quite a bit.
Jan. 1 sees the arrival of a truly stunning amount of impressive non-Netflix movies and TV shows. The big titles available on the first of the month include: 300, Interview with the Vampire, Paranormal Activity, Superman Returns, Terminator 2, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, and much more. Later on in the month, Netflix is also set to add Phantom Thread (Jan. 16) to its roster.
Read more TV Interview with the Vampire Series Will Tweak Anne Rice’s Story By Alec Bojalad and 1 other Movies Superman Returns: What Went Wrong? By Mike Cecchini
Though Netflix is lighter on original content in January 2022, there is still plenty of intriguing titles to check out.
Jan. 1 sees the arrival of a truly stunning amount of impressive non-Netflix movies and TV shows. The big titles available on the first of the month include: 300, Interview with the Vampire, Paranormal Activity, Superman Returns, Terminator 2, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, and much more. Later on in the month, Netflix is also set to add Phantom Thread (Jan. 16) to its roster.
Read more TV Interview with the Vampire Series Will Tweak Anne Rice’s Story By Alec Bojalad and 1 other Movies Superman Returns: What Went Wrong? By Mike Cecchini
Though Netflix is lighter on original content in January 2022, there is still plenty of intriguing titles to check out.
- 1/1/2022
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
Netflix will start 2022 with a number of series and film debuts, including the first part of the final season of “Ozark” and “Home Team,” a comedy about NFL coach Sean Payton starring Kevin James. But beyond its originals, Netflix will welcome a number of major library titles, among them “Phantom Thread” from Paul Thomas Anderson, Best Picture winner “Braveheart,” Ben Affleck’s blockbuster hit “The Town,” Martin Scorsese’s “Taxi Driver,” David Fincher’s “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo,” and Joel and Ethan Coen’s “True Grit.”
Ahead, everything coming to Netflix in January 2022 – plus what movies will expire from the platform in January 2022 as well.
Coming Soon
All of Us Are Dead — Netflix Series
A zombie virus breaks out fast inside a school. Endangered students fight to survive and escape.
I Am Georgina — Netflix Series
A revealing look at the life of Georgina Rodríguez: model, mother, influencer,...
Ahead, everything coming to Netflix in January 2022 – plus what movies will expire from the platform in January 2022 as well.
Coming Soon
All of Us Are Dead — Netflix Series
A zombie virus breaks out fast inside a school. Endangered students fight to survive and escape.
I Am Georgina — Netflix Series
A revealing look at the life of Georgina Rodríguez: model, mother, influencer,...
- 12/27/2021
- by Christopher Rosen
- Gold Derby
Screen Media has nabbed North American rights to Black Friday, an alien invasion holiday horror film starring Bruce Campbell (The Evil Dead), Devon Sawa (Final Destination), Ivana Baquero (Pan’s Labyrinth), Ryan Lee (Goosebumps), Michael Jai White (Arrow) and Stephen Peck, ahead of its Fantastic Fest world premiere, with plans for a day-and-date release in November.
Casey Tebo’s film, penned by Andy Greskoviak, takes place on the busiest shopping night of the year, watching as a group of disgruntled toy store employees are forced to defend themselves from legions of holiday shoppers, who have been turned into monstrous creatures by a mysterious alien parasite.
Warner Davis produced the pic, with Greskoviak exec producing via his company Mfw Manufacturing.
“When Andy sent me this script, it was such a blast!” said Tebo. “It reminded me of some of my favorite holiday horror movies like Gremlins or Krampus. I could see myself...
Casey Tebo’s film, penned by Andy Greskoviak, takes place on the busiest shopping night of the year, watching as a group of disgruntled toy store employees are forced to defend themselves from legions of holiday shoppers, who have been turned into monstrous creatures by a mysterious alien parasite.
Warner Davis produced the pic, with Greskoviak exec producing via his company Mfw Manufacturing.
“When Andy sent me this script, it was such a blast!” said Tebo. “It reminded me of some of my favorite holiday horror movies like Gremlins or Krampus. I could see myself...
- 9/22/2021
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
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The ’90s might just be the biggest and best decade when it comes to showcasing high school hierarchies om film. Rom-coms featuring rich and popular teens, football jocks, and the lonely outcast struggling to fit in come to mind, along with memorable fashions.
The ’90s was also a time where filmmaking evolved. From genetically engineered extinct species suddenly roaming the earth, to choreographed fight scenes and explosions, and alien invasions threatening life as we know it, the ’90s brought a new level of cinematic genius as high quality graphics and new directorial styles emerged.
Below, find a roundup of ’90s films to add to your Blu-ray collection. Need more ’90s content? Check out...
The ’90s might just be the biggest and best decade when it comes to showcasing high school hierarchies om film. Rom-coms featuring rich and popular teens, football jocks, and the lonely outcast struggling to fit in come to mind, along with memorable fashions.
The ’90s was also a time where filmmaking evolved. From genetically engineered extinct species suddenly roaming the earth, to choreographed fight scenes and explosions, and alien invasions threatening life as we know it, the ’90s brought a new level of cinematic genius as high quality graphics and new directorial styles emerged.
Below, find a roundup of ’90s films to add to your Blu-ray collection. Need more ’90s content? Check out...
- 9/8/2021
- by Angel Saunders
- Indiewire
September usually means the beginning of the traditional fall TV season. As such, Hulu’s list of new releases for September 2021 contains some impressive TV swings.
For starters, all of ABC and Fox’s (both now united under the Disney banner alongside Hulu) fall season offerings will be made available to stream on Hulu the next day. More impressively, however, two FX on Hulu originals make their way to the streaming world this month.
The first is the long-awaited adaptation of the classic comic Y: The Last Man. The story of a virus that destroys every mammal with a Y-chromosome (save for one escape artist and his monkey) is set to premiere on September 13. Shortly after that, the B.J. Novak-produced anthology series The Premise arrives on September 16. Even those who are fatigued from timely anthology concepts will want to check this one out.
Read more TV How Y: The...
For starters, all of ABC and Fox’s (both now united under the Disney banner alongside Hulu) fall season offerings will be made available to stream on Hulu the next day. More impressively, however, two FX on Hulu originals make their way to the streaming world this month.
The first is the long-awaited adaptation of the classic comic Y: The Last Man. The story of a virus that destroys every mammal with a Y-chromosome (save for one escape artist and his monkey) is set to premiere on September 13. Shortly after that, the B.J. Novak-produced anthology series The Premise arrives on September 16. Even those who are fatigued from timely anthology concepts will want to check this one out.
Read more TV How Y: The...
- 8/31/2021
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
Sofia Vergara made Jimmie Herrod a household name when she pushed her Golden Buzzer for him during the audition phase of “America’s Got Talent.” Now that the live shows have begun, the powerhouse singer seems to have a new cheerleader in the form of Heidi Klum. After Jimmie’s live performance of “Pure Imagination” from “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory,” Heidi called him a “million dollar act.” Talk about a huge vote of confidence! All four judges — Heidi, Sofia, Howie Mandel and Simon Cowell — gave Jimmie a standing ovation, signalling their unanimous approval. Watch the “AGT” audition video above.
In his “AGT” live blog, our recapper John Benutty had this to say about the performance: “For the final performance of the night, Sofia’s Golden Buzzer choice Jimmie Herrod came to the stage for his version of ‘Pure Imagination’ by Gene Wilder. Like his audition of ‘Tomorrow,’ the song was pure Broadway styling,...
In his “AGT” live blog, our recapper John Benutty had this to say about the performance: “For the final performance of the night, Sofia’s Golden Buzzer choice Jimmie Herrod came to the stage for his version of ‘Pure Imagination’ by Gene Wilder. Like his audition of ‘Tomorrow,’ the song was pure Broadway styling,...
- 8/11/2021
- by Marcus James Dixon
- Gold Derby
All products and services featured by IndieWire are independently selected by IndieWire editors. However, IndieWire may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
“Obama: In Pursuit of a More Perfect Union,” a three-part HBO documentary series offering a behind-the-scenes look at President Barack Obama, arrives on HBO Max on August 4, coinciding with the former commander in chief’s 60th birthday.
Directed by Emmy-winner Peter Kunhardt, “Obama: In Pursuit of a More Perfect Union” will premiere on HBO on August 3, before hitting the streaming service. HBO described the documentary as detailing the “personal and political journey of President Obama as the country grapples with its racial history.” The documentary shares a cohesive portrait of America under its first Black president, beginning with Obama’s childhood. The series takes viewers inside his perspective of being the son of...
“Obama: In Pursuit of a More Perfect Union,” a three-part HBO documentary series offering a behind-the-scenes look at President Barack Obama, arrives on HBO Max on August 4, coinciding with the former commander in chief’s 60th birthday.
Directed by Emmy-winner Peter Kunhardt, “Obama: In Pursuit of a More Perfect Union” will premiere on HBO on August 3, before hitting the streaming service. HBO described the documentary as detailing the “personal and political journey of President Obama as the country grapples with its racial history.” The documentary shares a cohesive portrait of America under its first Black president, beginning with Obama’s childhood. The series takes viewers inside his perspective of being the son of...
- 8/3/2021
- by Latifah Muhammad
- Indiewire
In the days since legendary filmmaker Richard Donner’s death at age 91, his longtime wife, Lauren Shuler Donner, has taken comfort in the outpouring of love and support from the “Superman” director’s fans and colleagues.
“Each one is more remarkable than the next,” Shuler Donner tells Variety about the stories she’s heard about her late husband. “He was a prankster, a lover. He was an extraordinary man, and I want everybody to celebrate him in their own way.”
Since news broke of Donner’s death on Monday, industry leaders including Steven Spielberg (who wrote the story for “The Goonies”) and Donner’s “Lethal Weapon” stars Mel Gibson and Danny Glover have been among those publicly mourning the director’s passing.
“Somebody who’s prominent in the business, told me that when they were young [in the 60s or 70s], they were somewhere, and suddenly there was a ripple in the room, and somebody whispered,...
“Each one is more remarkable than the next,” Shuler Donner tells Variety about the stories she’s heard about her late husband. “He was a prankster, a lover. He was an extraordinary man, and I want everybody to celebrate him in their own way.”
Since news broke of Donner’s death on Monday, industry leaders including Steven Spielberg (who wrote the story for “The Goonies”) and Donner’s “Lethal Weapon” stars Mel Gibson and Danny Glover have been among those publicly mourning the director’s passing.
“Somebody who’s prominent in the business, told me that when they were young [in the 60s or 70s], they were somewhere, and suddenly there was a ripple in the room, and somebody whispered,...
- 7/8/2021
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Richard Donner will forever be remembered as the filmmaker who created the blueprint for the modern superhero blockbuster with 1978’s Superman starring Christopher Reeve.
Yet that doesn’t tell even half the story of the Bronx-born filmmaker’s brilliant filmography.
Donner was in his late 40s by the time Superman came along, having made a name for himself in Hollywood two years earlier, with 1976’s suitably terrifying The Omen.
Prior to that, he was a budding director making the transition from the small screen to the world of cinema. Donner worked on everything from Gilligan’s Island to The Twilight Zone. Even then, it was clear he was destined for bigger things though, as anyone who saw “Nightmare at 20,000 Feet”, the iconic episode of The Twilight Zone he directed, starring William Shatner, can attest.
While a disagreement with producers ultimately saw him walk away from Superman II, the 1980s...
Yet that doesn’t tell even half the story of the Bronx-born filmmaker’s brilliant filmography.
Donner was in his late 40s by the time Superman came along, having made a name for himself in Hollywood two years earlier, with 1976’s suitably terrifying The Omen.
Prior to that, he was a budding director making the transition from the small screen to the world of cinema. Donner worked on everything from Gilligan’s Island to The Twilight Zone. Even then, it was clear he was destined for bigger things though, as anyone who saw “Nightmare at 20,000 Feet”, the iconic episode of The Twilight Zone he directed, starring William Shatner, can attest.
While a disagreement with producers ultimately saw him walk away from Superman II, the 1980s...
- 7/7/2021
- by Rosie Fletcher
- Den of Geek
All products and services featured by IndieWire are independently selected by IndieWire editors. However, IndieWire may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
If you’re a fan of ‘80s cinema, you’ve seen at least one Richard Donner movie. The Bronx-born director, who died July 5 at the age of 91, got his start directing off-Broadway plays and TV shows before transitioning into film. After working on “The Twilight Zone,” “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.,” “Gilligan’s Island,” and “Perry Mason,” Donner went on to helm blockbusters and cult classics such as the “Lethal Weapon” and “Superman” franchises, “The Goonies,” “The Omen,” and “Scrooged.” He also served as executive producer on “Any Given Sunday,” the “Free Willy” franchise, “X-Men,” and “X-Men Origins: Wolverine.”
Below, six of the best Donner-directed films that absolutely need to be in your Blu-ray collection.
If you’re a fan of ‘80s cinema, you’ve seen at least one Richard Donner movie. The Bronx-born director, who died July 5 at the age of 91, got his start directing off-Broadway plays and TV shows before transitioning into film. After working on “The Twilight Zone,” “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.,” “Gilligan’s Island,” and “Perry Mason,” Donner went on to helm blockbusters and cult classics such as the “Lethal Weapon” and “Superman” franchises, “The Goonies,” “The Omen,” and “Scrooged.” He also served as executive producer on “Any Given Sunday,” the “Free Willy” franchise, “X-Men,” and “X-Men Origins: Wolverine.”
Below, six of the best Donner-directed films that absolutely need to be in your Blu-ray collection.
- 7/7/2021
- by Latifah Muhammad
- Indiewire
It is with sadness in our hearts we report the death of Director-producer Richard Donner, who was 91.
Donner, best known for movies including the original ‘Superman’, the ‘Lethal Weapon’ series of films and of course, ‘The Goonies’ for which our site owes immense gratitude for inspiring our name.
Donner, who had a long and illustrious career made his big breakthrough with 1976’s The Omen before going on to make what is regarded as the first superhero film with ‘Superman’ starring Christopher Reeves. In 1985, Donner went on to direct the story of a group of children hunting for a hidden treasure, ‘The Goonies’. The movie has since gone on to become a bit of a cult classic for those that grew up in the ‘80s.
His career highlight came with the ‘Lethal Weapon’ franchise starring Mel Gibson and Danny Glover which garnered over a billion dollars at the box office. He...
Donner, best known for movies including the original ‘Superman’, the ‘Lethal Weapon’ series of films and of course, ‘The Goonies’ for which our site owes immense gratitude for inspiring our name.
Donner, who had a long and illustrious career made his big breakthrough with 1976’s The Omen before going on to make what is regarded as the first superhero film with ‘Superman’ starring Christopher Reeves. In 1985, Donner went on to direct the story of a group of children hunting for a hidden treasure, ‘The Goonies’. The movie has since gone on to become a bit of a cult classic for those that grew up in the ‘80s.
His career highlight came with the ‘Lethal Weapon’ franchise starring Mel Gibson and Danny Glover which garnered over a billion dollars at the box office. He...
- 7/6/2021
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Lauren Shuler Donner, the wife and sometimes producing partner of husband Richard Donner, who died Monday at age 91, was understandably emotional when I spoke with her today. She expressed sadness at the loss, as well as sympathy for the loss of movie lovers everywhere who were fans of Superman, The Omen, The Goonies, Ladyhawke, Scrooged, the Lethal Weapon movies, Maverick, 1997’s now oddly-timelier Conspiracy Theory and countless others including those he produced like Free Willy, The Lost Boys and X-Men. No question Dick Donner was a giant, and widely admired as you can probably tell from the outpouring of reaction on Deadline.
Steven Spielberg, for whom Donner made the aforementioned The Goonies, called him “the greatest Goonie of them all”.
“He was a great man. I was a very very lucky woman.
Steven Spielberg, for whom Donner made the aforementioned The Goonies, called him “the greatest Goonie of them all”.
“He was a great man. I was a very very lucky woman.
- 7/5/2021
- by Pete Hammond
- Deadline Film + TV
Updated with latest: Richard Donner, the director that launched Superman on the big screen and elevated the buddy movie to blockbuster status with Lethal Weapon as part of a five-decade film and TV directing and producing career, died Monday at age 91. His credits included helming such iconic movies across several genres from the horror pic The Omen to the kids adventure tale The Goonies to a Christmas classic Scrooged.
He was remembered in industry circles today for his booming laugh and kindness, with his Goonies co-star Sean Astin saying, “What I perceived in him, as a 12 year old kid, is that he cared. I love that he cared.”
Said Steven Spielberg: “Dick had such a powerful command of his movies, and was so gifted across so many genres. Being in his circle was akin to hanging out with your favorite coach, smartest professor, fiercest motivator, most endearing friend, staunchest ally,...
He was remembered in industry circles today for his booming laugh and kindness, with his Goonies co-star Sean Astin saying, “What I perceived in him, as a 12 year old kid, is that he cared. I love that he cared.”
Said Steven Spielberg: “Dick had such a powerful command of his movies, and was so gifted across so many genres. Being in his circle was akin to hanging out with your favorite coach, smartest professor, fiercest motivator, most endearing friend, staunchest ally,...
- 7/5/2021
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
Following the news of legendary director Richard Donner’s death, heartfelt tributes are emerging from all over Hollywood, including from Steven Spielberg, Mel Gibson and Danny Glover.
Donner, who directed the original “Superman” film, the 1985 classic “The Goonies” and the “Lethal Weapon” series, died on Monday at the age of 91.
Fellow director Spielberg, who wrote the story for “The Goonies,” remembered Donner in a statement to Variety.
“Dick had such a powerful command of his movies, and was so gifted across so many genres. Being in his circle was akin to hanging out with your favorite coach, smartest professor, fiercest motivator, most endearing friend, staunchest ally, and — of course — the greatest Goonie of all,” Spielberg said. “He was all kid. All heart. All the time. I can’t believe he’s gone, but his husky, hearty laugh will stay with me always.”
Gibson, who starred alongside Danny Glover in Donner...
Donner, who directed the original “Superman” film, the 1985 classic “The Goonies” and the “Lethal Weapon” series, died on Monday at the age of 91.
Fellow director Spielberg, who wrote the story for “The Goonies,” remembered Donner in a statement to Variety.
“Dick had such a powerful command of his movies, and was so gifted across so many genres. Being in his circle was akin to hanging out with your favorite coach, smartest professor, fiercest motivator, most endearing friend, staunchest ally, and — of course — the greatest Goonie of all,” Spielberg said. “He was all kid. All heart. All the time. I can’t believe he’s gone, but his husky, hearty laugh will stay with me always.”
Gibson, who starred alongside Danny Glover in Donner...
- 7/5/2021
- by Ellise Shafer
- Variety Film + TV
Director-producer Richard Donner, best known for helming the “Lethal Weapon” film series, “The Goonies” and the original “Superman” film, died on Monday. He was 91.
Donner’s production company confirmed news of his death to Variety, though the cause was not disclosed.
Though not his first bigscreen effort, his big feature break came with 1976’s “The Omen,” starring Gregory Peck and Lee Remick. Thereafter, he brought his craftsmanship to the first “Superman.” He also branched out into producing, usually with his wife Lauren Shuler Donner — he executive produced the huge 2000 success “X-Men” and later the prequel “X-Men Origins: Wolverine.” But his career was highlighted by the “Lethal Weapon” series, starring Mel Gibson and Danny Glover, which elevated him to the ranks of directors generating more than a billion dollars in box office.
Born Richard Donald Schwartzberg in the Bronx, he attended Parker Junior College and then NYU, where he majored in business and theater.
Donner’s production company confirmed news of his death to Variety, though the cause was not disclosed.
Though not his first bigscreen effort, his big feature break came with 1976’s “The Omen,” starring Gregory Peck and Lee Remick. Thereafter, he brought his craftsmanship to the first “Superman.” He also branched out into producing, usually with his wife Lauren Shuler Donner — he executive produced the huge 2000 success “X-Men” and later the prequel “X-Men Origins: Wolverine.” But his career was highlighted by the “Lethal Weapon” series, starring Mel Gibson and Danny Glover, which elevated him to the ranks of directors generating more than a billion dollars in box office.
Born Richard Donald Schwartzberg in the Bronx, he attended Parker Junior College and then NYU, where he majored in business and theater.
- 7/5/2021
- by Richard Natale
- Variety Film + TV
Richard Donner, the prolific Hollywood director and producer whose helming credits include some of the most iconic movies of the 1970s and ’80s including the Christopher Reeve-starring Superman, The Goonies and the Mel Gibson-Danny Glover buddy cop series Lethal Weapon, has died. He was 91.
Donner passed away Monday, according to his wife, the producer Lauren Schuler Donner, and his business manager. No cause of death has been revealed.
The Bronx-born Donner, a genial man with a booming voice, started his career directing for television. His TV credits include a laundry list of staple shows from the ’60s including Route 66, The Rifleman, The Twilight Zone, The Man From U.N.C.L.E., Gilligan’s Island, Perry Mason and The Wild Wild West. His debut feature X-15 in 1961 with Charles Bronson (and a young Mary Tyler Moore) was followed by the 1968 crime comedy Salt & Pepper starring Sammy Davis Jr. and Peter Lawford,...
Donner passed away Monday, according to his wife, the producer Lauren Schuler Donner, and his business manager. No cause of death has been revealed.
The Bronx-born Donner, a genial man with a booming voice, started his career directing for television. His TV credits include a laundry list of staple shows from the ’60s including Route 66, The Rifleman, The Twilight Zone, The Man From U.N.C.L.E., Gilligan’s Island, Perry Mason and The Wild Wild West. His debut feature X-15 in 1961 with Charles Bronson (and a young Mary Tyler Moore) was followed by the 1968 crime comedy Salt & Pepper starring Sammy Davis Jr. and Peter Lawford,...
- 7/5/2021
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
Storyteller cut teeth directing TV shows Twilight Zone, The Man From U.N.C.L.E.
Richard Donner, the Hollywood director whose credits included the Lethal Weapon films, Superman, and The Omen, has died. He was 91.
Donner was born in the Bronx in New York and started out in entertainment directing TV shows like The Twilight Zone, The Man From U.N.C.L.E., and The Streets Of San Francisco.
He got his break in film in the mid-1970s with The Omen, progressed to Superman, and The Goonies, and made a name for himself as a talented storyteller in whose hands Hollywood hits like the Lethal Weapon franchise could thrive.
Richard Donner, the Hollywood director whose credits included the Lethal Weapon films, Superman, and The Omen, has died. He was 91.
Donner was born in the Bronx in New York and started out in entertainment directing TV shows like The Twilight Zone, The Man From U.N.C.L.E., and The Streets Of San Francisco.
He got his break in film in the mid-1970s with The Omen, progressed to Superman, and The Goonies, and made a name for himself as a talented storyteller in whose hands Hollywood hits like the Lethal Weapon franchise could thrive.
- 7/5/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
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