Network Entertainment has entered production on a new documentary celebrating the life and career of Bernie Taupin, the legendary lyricist best known for his longtime songwriting partnership with Egot winner Elton John.
Directed by Matthew Miele (Bob Mackie: Naked Illusion) and featuring newly commissioned interviews and archival content, the doc promises to offer a pulsating celebration of Bernie’s life, a deep dive into the roots of his creativity — including Bernie living his dream as a cowboy on the California coast, and a trip with Bernie back to Lincolnshire to capture his origin story, which is rooted within many of his songs that have become classics — and an insider’s look at his insatiable pursuit of sonic and visual art forms.
In addition to John, interviewees in the documentary will include Brandi Carlile, Alice Cooper, James Hetfield, Annie Lennox, Lulu, Gary Oldman, Ringo Starr, and Pete Townshend. Pic is produced...
Directed by Matthew Miele (Bob Mackie: Naked Illusion) and featuring newly commissioned interviews and archival content, the doc promises to offer a pulsating celebration of Bernie’s life, a deep dive into the roots of his creativity — including Bernie living his dream as a cowboy on the California coast, and a trip with Bernie back to Lincolnshire to capture his origin story, which is rooted within many of his songs that have become classics — and an insider’s look at his insatiable pursuit of sonic and visual art forms.
In addition to John, interviewees in the documentary will include Brandi Carlile, Alice Cooper, James Hetfield, Annie Lennox, Lulu, Gary Oldman, Ringo Starr, and Pete Townshend. Pic is produced...
- 6/25/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Where were you when the Brat Pack took over Hollywood?
Core 1980s Brat Pack member Andrew McCarthy revisits his iconic teen past alongside his fellow “It” actors for documentary “Brats,” which McCarthy writes and directs. Reclaiming the term first coined in David Blum’s 1985 New York Magazine cover story, “Brats” unpacks the teen films — and their stars — of the ’80s that shaped a generation.
McCarthy’s former co-stars Emilio Estevez, Ally Sheedy, Demi Moore, Rob Lowe, Lea Thompson, Timothy Hutton, and Jon Cryer are among those featured in the documentary. McCarthy says he had not previously seen most of his past colleagues for more than 30 years.
Notably, Molly Ringwald is not part of the doc, despite her discussions on the role of the Brat Pack in cinematic history. The actress previously cited that she was typecast because of the moniker, telling The Guardian that “darker roles” weren’t available to...
Core 1980s Brat Pack member Andrew McCarthy revisits his iconic teen past alongside his fellow “It” actors for documentary “Brats,” which McCarthy writes and directs. Reclaiming the term first coined in David Blum’s 1985 New York Magazine cover story, “Brats” unpacks the teen films — and their stars — of the ’80s that shaped a generation.
McCarthy’s former co-stars Emilio Estevez, Ally Sheedy, Demi Moore, Rob Lowe, Lea Thompson, Timothy Hutton, and Jon Cryer are among those featured in the documentary. McCarthy says he had not previously seen most of his past colleagues for more than 30 years.
Notably, Molly Ringwald is not part of the doc, despite her discussions on the role of the Brat Pack in cinematic history. The actress previously cited that she was typecast because of the moniker, telling The Guardian that “darker roles” weren’t available to...
- 5/22/2024
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
ABC News Studios, in partnership with Neon and Network Entertainment, today announced Brats, a new feature-length documentary from director Andrew McCarthy.
Brats will premiere on Thursday, June 13, on Hulu in the U.S. and later this summer on Disney+ in select territories, following its world premiere at the 2024 Tribeca Festival.
Announced earlier this year, Brats looks at the iconic films of the 1980s that shaped a generation and the narrative that took hold when their young stars were branded the “Brat Pack.”
McCarthy reunites with his fellow Brat Packers—friends, colleagues, and former foes, including Rob Lowe, Demi Moore, Ally Sheedy, Emilio Estevez, Jon Cryer, Lea Thompson, and Timothy Hutton, many of whom he has not seen for over 30 years—to answer the question: What did it mean to be part of the Brat Pack?
McCarthy also sits down for a first-time conversation with writer David Blum, who fatefully coined...
Brats will premiere on Thursday, June 13, on Hulu in the U.S. and later this summer on Disney+ in select territories, following its world premiere at the 2024 Tribeca Festival.
Announced earlier this year, Brats looks at the iconic films of the 1980s that shaped a generation and the narrative that took hold when their young stars were branded the “Brat Pack.”
McCarthy reunites with his fellow Brat Packers—friends, colleagues, and former foes, including Rob Lowe, Demi Moore, Ally Sheedy, Emilio Estevez, Jon Cryer, Lea Thompson, and Timothy Hutton, many of whom he has not seen for over 30 years—to answer the question: What did it mean to be part of the Brat Pack?
McCarthy also sits down for a first-time conversation with writer David Blum, who fatefully coined...
- 5/14/2024
- by Mirko Parlevliet
- Vital Thrills
ABC News Studios, Neon and Network Entertainment announced on Tuesday that Brats, the feature-length Brat Pack doc directed by Andrew McCarthy, will premiere on Hulu in the U.S. on Thursday, June 13.
Set to launch on Disney+ in select territories later this summer, after world premiering at the 2024 Tribeca Festival, Brats looks at the iconic films of the 1980s that shaped a generation and the narrative that took hold when their young stars were branded the “Brat Pack.” McCarthy reunites with his fellow Brat Packers — friends, colleagues and former foes, including Rob Lowe, Demi Moore, Ally Sheedy, Emilio Estevez, Jon Cryer, Lea Thompson and Timothy Hutton, many of whom he had not seen for over 30 years — to answer the question: What did it mean to be part of the Brat Pack? The actor-filmmaker also sits down for a first-time conversation with writer David Blum, who fatefully coined the term Brat...
Set to launch on Disney+ in select territories later this summer, after world premiering at the 2024 Tribeca Festival, Brats looks at the iconic films of the 1980s that shaped a generation and the narrative that took hold when their young stars were branded the “Brat Pack.” McCarthy reunites with his fellow Brat Packers — friends, colleagues and former foes, including Rob Lowe, Demi Moore, Ally Sheedy, Emilio Estevez, Jon Cryer, Lea Thompson and Timothy Hutton, many of whom he had not seen for over 30 years — to answer the question: What did it mean to be part of the Brat Pack? The actor-filmmaker also sits down for a first-time conversation with writer David Blum, who fatefully coined the term Brat...
- 5/14/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Lovers of 80s movies know the Brat Pack. The group of stars who graced the silver screen in films like Pretty in Pink, Sixteen Candles, The Breakfast Club and St. Elmos Fire were teen sensations and helped a generation grapple with coming-of-age issues in high school. Most have gone on to blossom into illustrious film careers, but they will always be remembered for their run in the 1980s film scene. While most also eventually bowed gracefully out of show business down the line, Andrew McCarthy was one member who had been out of the spotlight since the 90s.
Deadline is reporting that McCarthy will be rejoining his cohorts for the Hulu documentary titled Brats. McCarthy had written a memoir called Brat: An 80s story and has now written and directed the documentary that is currently in post-production. The film description reads, “McCarthy crisscrosses the country to meet up with some...
Deadline is reporting that McCarthy will be rejoining his cohorts for the Hulu documentary titled Brats. McCarthy had written a memoir called Brat: An 80s story and has now written and directed the documentary that is currently in post-production. The film description reads, “McCarthy crisscrosses the country to meet up with some...
- 1/19/2024
- by EJ Tangonan
- JoBlo.com
Andrew McCarthy is getting back together with his fellow Brat Pack alums Rob Lowe, Demi Moore, Jon Cryer, Ally Sheedy, Emilio Estevez and more for the feature documentary Brats, a revealing look at the cultural phenomenon they became in the 1980s and how that has impacted their lives ever since.
Brats, from ABC News Studios, Neon, and Network Entertainment, is set to premiere on Hulu later this year. McCarthy, author of the 2021 memoir Brat: An ‘80s Story, writes and directs the documentary, which is now in post-production. He co-starred with fellow Brat Packers in some of the biggest hits of the mid- ‘80s including St. Elmo’s Fire (1985), Pretty in Pink (1986), and Less Than Zero (1987).
From left: ‘St. Elmo’s Fire’s Rob Lowe, Demi Moore, Emilio Estevez, Mare Winningham, Judd Nelson,
Ally Sheedy and Andrew McCarthy
“McCarthy crisscrosses the country to meet up with some of the stars of those beloved films,...
Brats, from ABC News Studios, Neon, and Network Entertainment, is set to premiere on Hulu later this year. McCarthy, author of the 2021 memoir Brat: An ‘80s Story, writes and directs the documentary, which is now in post-production. He co-starred with fellow Brat Packers in some of the biggest hits of the mid- ‘80s including St. Elmo’s Fire (1985), Pretty in Pink (1986), and Less Than Zero (1987).
From left: ‘St. Elmo’s Fire’s Rob Lowe, Demi Moore, Emilio Estevez, Mare Winningham, Judd Nelson,
Ally Sheedy and Andrew McCarthy
“McCarthy crisscrosses the country to meet up with some of the stars of those beloved films,...
- 1/18/2024
- by Matthew Carey
- Deadline Film + TV
At this year’s Sundance Film Festival, content brand company Onyx Collective showcased its slate of programming, which includes two new projects, one from Ryan Coogler’s Proximity Media, as well as the highly anticipated sophomore documentary feature from music artist and filmmaker Questlove.
The company has acquired an untitled Sly Stone feature documentary from Ahmir ‘Questlove’ Thompson, marking the artist’s second collaboration with the collective.
According to Variety, the documentary promises to examine the life and legacy of Sly and the Family Stone, the groundbreaking band led by the famous Sly Stone.
The documentary aims to explore the rise, reign and fadeout of one of pop music’s most influential artists and, in doing so, tell a human story about the cost of genius.
Questlove will direct and executive produce, alongside Shawn Gee and Zarah Zohlman for Two One Five Entertainment Inc. Lonnie Rashid Lynn, a.k.a.
The company has acquired an untitled Sly Stone feature documentary from Ahmir ‘Questlove’ Thompson, marking the artist’s second collaboration with the collective.
According to Variety, the documentary promises to examine the life and legacy of Sly and the Family Stone, the groundbreaking band led by the famous Sly Stone.
The documentary aims to explore the rise, reign and fadeout of one of pop music’s most influential artists and, in doing so, tell a human story about the cost of genius.
Questlove will direct and executive produce, alongside Shawn Gee and Zarah Zohlman for Two One Five Entertainment Inc. Lonnie Rashid Lynn, a.k.a.
- 1/22/2023
- by News Bureau
- GlamSham
As part of this year’s Sundance Film Festival, Onyx Collective unveiled its expanding slate of programming to come in the near future during their Storytellers Showcase – which notably includes two new projects, one from Ryan Coogler’s Proximity Media, as well as the highly anticipated sophomore documentary feature from music artist and filmmaker Questlove.
The company has acquired an untitled Sly Stone feature documentary from Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, marking the artist’s second collaboration with the collective. Variety has learned the doc promises to examine the life and legacy of Sly and the Family Stone, the groundbreaking band led by the famous Sly Stone. The documentary aims to explore the rise, reign and fadeout of one of pop music’s most influential artists and, in doing so, tell a human story about the cost of genius.
Questlove will direct and executive produce, alongside Shawn Gee and Zarah Zohlman for Two One Five Entertainment Inc.
The company has acquired an untitled Sly Stone feature documentary from Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, marking the artist’s second collaboration with the collective. Variety has learned the doc promises to examine the life and legacy of Sly and the Family Stone, the groundbreaking band led by the famous Sly Stone. The documentary aims to explore the rise, reign and fadeout of one of pop music’s most influential artists and, in doing so, tell a human story about the cost of genius.
Questlove will direct and executive produce, alongside Shawn Gee and Zarah Zohlman for Two One Five Entertainment Inc.
- 1/21/2023
- by BreAnna Bell
- Variety Film + TV
Onyx Collective has acquired rights to Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson’s untitled Sly Stone documentary, which chronicles the life and legacy of Sly and the Family Stone, it was announced Saturday during its Sundance Film Festival panel. The documentary was acquired from MRC. Hulu is the primary domestic destination for all Onyx titles.
Questlove, who won an Oscar last year for “Summer of Soul,” directs what is his sophomore feature, which is from a script by Joseph Patel and Jeff Mao. The film examines “the rise, reign and fadeout of one of pop music’s most influential artists” while telling a “very human story about the cost of genius,” per the official description.
Producers are Derrik Murray for Network Entertainment Inc. and Patel. They’re joined by executive producers Stone, Brian Gersh of Network Entertainment Inc., and Two One Five Entertainment Inc.’s Questlove, Shawn Gee, and Zarah Zohlman. Lonnie Rashid Lynn,...
Questlove, who won an Oscar last year for “Summer of Soul,” directs what is his sophomore feature, which is from a script by Joseph Patel and Jeff Mao. The film examines “the rise, reign and fadeout of one of pop music’s most influential artists” while telling a “very human story about the cost of genius,” per the official description.
Producers are Derrik Murray for Network Entertainment Inc. and Patel. They’re joined by executive producers Stone, Brian Gersh of Network Entertainment Inc., and Two One Five Entertainment Inc.’s Questlove, Shawn Gee, and Zarah Zohlman. Lonnie Rashid Lynn,...
- 1/21/2023
- by Harper Lambert
- The Wrap
Onyx Collective came armed with news during its presentation Saturday at the Sundance Film Festival.
Disney’s Tara Duncan-led quasi studio has put a Queen of Sheba scripted drama series in development. Onyx, which produces content exclusively for Hulu, has also nabbed two documentaries out of the snowy fest: Questlove’s untitled Sly Stone feature and Ryan Coogler’s Anthem.
Sheba, which is also exec produced by Coogler, is co-created by Chantelle Wells (Showtime’s Yellowjackets) and actress-writer-producer Azie Tesfai (Supergirl). The drama explores the rise to power of the first queen on the continent of Africa as she seeks to unite the nation now known as Ethiopia, making it one of the richest, most formidable kingdoms in the world. Inspired by true events, the potential series follows Makeda into a world of danger, deceit and political intrigue as she is forced to step into a role that no one,...
Disney’s Tara Duncan-led quasi studio has put a Queen of Sheba scripted drama series in development. Onyx, which produces content exclusively for Hulu, has also nabbed two documentaries out of the snowy fest: Questlove’s untitled Sly Stone feature and Ryan Coogler’s Anthem.
Sheba, which is also exec produced by Coogler, is co-created by Chantelle Wells (Showtime’s Yellowjackets) and actress-writer-producer Azie Tesfai (Supergirl). The drama explores the rise to power of the first queen on the continent of Africa as she seeks to unite the nation now known as Ethiopia, making it one of the richest, most formidable kingdoms in the world. Inspired by true events, the potential series follows Makeda into a world of danger, deceit and political intrigue as she is forced to step into a role that no one,...
- 1/21/2023
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Onyx Collective has landed a pair of documentaries including Questlove’s upcoming Sly Stone film.
The brand, which airs on Hulu, will air both Questlove’s Untitled Sly Stone documentary and Anthem, which follows composer Kris Bowers and music producer Dahi as they take on a musical journey across the U.S. experimenting to reimagine the National Anthem.
Separately, the brand has struck an overall deal with Joseph Patel, who produced Oscar-winning doc Summer of Soul (…Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised alongside Questlove.
Questlove will direct the Stone doc about Stone, otherwise known as Sylvester Stewart, who was frontman of Sly and the Family Stone and known for pioneering funk music.
It will examine the life and legacy of Sly and the Family Stone and tells the story behind the rise, reign and fadeout of one of pop music’s most influential artists and, in doing so,...
The brand, which airs on Hulu, will air both Questlove’s Untitled Sly Stone documentary and Anthem, which follows composer Kris Bowers and music producer Dahi as they take on a musical journey across the U.S. experimenting to reimagine the National Anthem.
Separately, the brand has struck an overall deal with Joseph Patel, who produced Oscar-winning doc Summer of Soul (…Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised alongside Questlove.
Questlove will direct the Stone doc about Stone, otherwise known as Sylvester Stewart, who was frontman of Sly and the Family Stone and known for pioneering funk music.
It will examine the life and legacy of Sly and the Family Stone and tells the story behind the rise, reign and fadeout of one of pop music’s most influential artists and, in doing so,...
- 1/21/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Sidney Poitier’s barrier-breaking legacy is now back on the big screen.
The Documentary “Sidney,” directed by Academy Award nominee Reginald Hudlin (“Marshall”), focuses on Poitier’s career as an actor, filmmaker, and activist during the Civil Rights Movement. Interviews with Denzel Washington, Spike Lee, Halle Berry, Robert Redford, Lenny Kravitz, and Barbra Streisand frame the film, which is produced by Oprah Winfrey and Derik Murray in close collaboration with the Poitier family.
Winfrey’s Harpo Productions and the Network Entertainment produce the Apple Original Film, set to debut September 23 on AppleTV+ and in select theaters. Jesse James Miller wrote the documentary, with Terry Wood, Catherine Cyr, Brian Gersh, Paul Gertz, Reginald Hudlin, Joanna Shimkus Poitier, Anika Poitier, and Barry Krost executive producing.
Poitier says in the trailer, “I left the Bahamas with this sense of myself. And from the time I got off the boat, America began to say to me,...
The Documentary “Sidney,” directed by Academy Award nominee Reginald Hudlin (“Marshall”), focuses on Poitier’s career as an actor, filmmaker, and activist during the Civil Rights Movement. Interviews with Denzel Washington, Spike Lee, Halle Berry, Robert Redford, Lenny Kravitz, and Barbra Streisand frame the film, which is produced by Oprah Winfrey and Derik Murray in close collaboration with the Poitier family.
Winfrey’s Harpo Productions and the Network Entertainment produce the Apple Original Film, set to debut September 23 on AppleTV+ and in select theaters. Jesse James Miller wrote the documentary, with Terry Wood, Catherine Cyr, Brian Gersh, Paul Gertz, Reginald Hudlin, Joanna Shimkus Poitier, Anika Poitier, and Barry Krost executive producing.
Poitier says in the trailer, “I left the Bahamas with this sense of myself. And from the time I got off the boat, America began to say to me,...
- 8/17/2022
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Apple has unveiled the trailer for the new documentary film ‘Sidney,’ produced by Oprah Winfrey.
Directed by Academy Award nominee Reginald Hudlin, this revealing documentary honours the legendary Sidney Poitier and his legacy as an iconic actor, filmmaker and activist at the centre of Hollywood and the Civil Rights Movement. Featuring candid interviews with Denzel Washington, Halle Berry, Robert Redford, Lenny Kravitz, Barbra Streisand, Spike Lee and many more, the film is also produced by Derik Murray, in close collaboration with the Poitier family.
Produced by Oprah Winfrey, and hailing from Harpo Productions and Network Entertainment, the documentary is directed by Reginald Hudlin and written by Jesse James Miller. Derik Murray also serves as producer. Terry Wood, Catherine Cyr, Brian Gersh, Paul Gertz, Reginald Hudlin, Joanna Shimkus Poitier, Anika Poitier and Barry Krost executive produce.
Also in trailers – “Tonight will be madness…” Full trailer drops for ‘The Menu’
The doc...
Directed by Academy Award nominee Reginald Hudlin, this revealing documentary honours the legendary Sidney Poitier and his legacy as an iconic actor, filmmaker and activist at the centre of Hollywood and the Civil Rights Movement. Featuring candid interviews with Denzel Washington, Halle Berry, Robert Redford, Lenny Kravitz, Barbra Streisand, Spike Lee and many more, the film is also produced by Derik Murray, in close collaboration with the Poitier family.
Produced by Oprah Winfrey, and hailing from Harpo Productions and Network Entertainment, the documentary is directed by Reginald Hudlin and written by Jesse James Miller. Derik Murray also serves as producer. Terry Wood, Catherine Cyr, Brian Gersh, Paul Gertz, Reginald Hudlin, Joanna Shimkus Poitier, Anika Poitier and Barry Krost executive produce.
Also in trailers – “Tonight will be madness…” Full trailer drops for ‘The Menu’
The doc...
- 8/17/2022
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Today Apple unveiled the trailer for the new documentary film “Sidney,” produced by Oprah Winfrey.
From producer Oprah Winfrey and directed by Academy Award nominee Reginald Hudlin, this revealing documentary honors the legendary Sidney Poitier and his legacy as an iconic actor, filmmaker and activist at the center of Hollywood and the Civil Rights Movement. Featuring candid interviews with Denzel Washington, Halle Berry, Robert Redford, Lenny Kravitz, Barbra Streisand, Spike Lee and many more, the film is also produced by Derik Murray, in close collaboration with the Poitier family.
The actor was recognized twice by The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences. The first time was when Actress Anne Bancroft presented Poitier the Oscar for Best Actor for Lilies of the Field at the 36th Academy Awards.
Sidney Poitier received an Honorary Oscar, presented by Denzel Washington, for his body of work at the 74th Annual Academy Awards.
Produced by Oprah Winfrey,...
From producer Oprah Winfrey and directed by Academy Award nominee Reginald Hudlin, this revealing documentary honors the legendary Sidney Poitier and his legacy as an iconic actor, filmmaker and activist at the center of Hollywood and the Civil Rights Movement. Featuring candid interviews with Denzel Washington, Halle Berry, Robert Redford, Lenny Kravitz, Barbra Streisand, Spike Lee and many more, the film is also produced by Derik Murray, in close collaboration with the Poitier family.
The actor was recognized twice by The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences. The first time was when Actress Anne Bancroft presented Poitier the Oscar for Best Actor for Lilies of the Field at the 36th Academy Awards.
Sidney Poitier received an Honorary Oscar, presented by Denzel Washington, for his body of work at the 74th Annual Academy Awards.
Produced by Oprah Winfrey,...
- 8/16/2022
- by Michelle Hannett
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
The first trailer for “Sidney,” Apple TV+’s upcoming documentary on legendary film icon Sidney Poitier, has been released.
The film examines the legacy of Poitier, who died earlier this year at 94. One of the most acclaimed and recognizable movie stars of the Golden Age of Hollywood, and the first Black man to receive a best actor award, Poitier was also a director and an activist for the Civil Rights Movement. Interview subjects featured in the film include Denzel Washington, Halle Berry, Robert Redford, Lenny Kravitz, Barbra Streisand and Spike Lee.
“Sidney” is directed by Reginald Hudlin, from a script by Jesse James Miller. Oprah Winfrey produces with Derik Murray for Harpo Productions and Network Entertainment. Hudlin executive produces with Poitier family members Joanna Shimkus Poitier and Anika Poitier, as well as Terry Wood, Catherine Cyr, Brian Gersh, Paul Gertz and Barry Krost.
“Sidney” releases Sept. 23. Watch the full trailer below.
The film examines the legacy of Poitier, who died earlier this year at 94. One of the most acclaimed and recognizable movie stars of the Golden Age of Hollywood, and the first Black man to receive a best actor award, Poitier was also a director and an activist for the Civil Rights Movement. Interview subjects featured in the film include Denzel Washington, Halle Berry, Robert Redford, Lenny Kravitz, Barbra Streisand and Spike Lee.
“Sidney” is directed by Reginald Hudlin, from a script by Jesse James Miller. Oprah Winfrey produces with Derik Murray for Harpo Productions and Network Entertainment. Hudlin executive produces with Poitier family members Joanna Shimkus Poitier and Anika Poitier, as well as Terry Wood, Catherine Cyr, Brian Gersh, Paul Gertz and Barry Krost.
“Sidney” releases Sept. 23. Watch the full trailer below.
- 8/16/2022
- by Jazz Tangcay and Wilson Chapman
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Network Entertainment has optioned Andrew McCarthy’s bestselling memoir Brat: An ’80s Story and will produce a documentary adaptation, the company said Monday.
McCarthy, who rose to fame in the 1980s with roles in such classics as St. Elmo’s Fire, Pretty in Pink and Weekend at Bernie’s, long has pondered what it has meant to him to be an integral member of the iconic group of movie stars known as the Brat Pack. Writing the book, released earlier this year, answered many questions that he’s wrestled with throughout his life. But it also brought up more. Was being identified as a Brat Packer the worst thing that ever happened to him, or was it actually the best?
Brat will follow McCarthy across the country as he goes directly to the source, seeking out other Brat Pack members to find out what it has meant to each of them...
McCarthy, who rose to fame in the 1980s with roles in such classics as St. Elmo’s Fire, Pretty in Pink and Weekend at Bernie’s, long has pondered what it has meant to him to be an integral member of the iconic group of movie stars known as the Brat Pack. Writing the book, released earlier this year, answered many questions that he’s wrestled with throughout his life. But it also brought up more. Was being identified as a Brat Packer the worst thing that ever happened to him, or was it actually the best?
Brat will follow McCarthy across the country as he goes directly to the source, seeking out other Brat Pack members to find out what it has meant to each of them...
- 11/1/2021
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Network Entertainment has signed with ICM Partners for global representation, the agency tells Deadline.
Led by founder and CEO Derik Murray, president & COO Paul Gertz, and SVP & executive producer Brian Gersh, Network is a boutique production company that develops, finances and produces documentary programming for big-screen audiences, TV networks and streamers. Its focus is on projects that celebrate iconic personalities and their legacies, and others honing in on cultural topics within the areas of music, film, comedy, sports, politics and business.
Recently, the company partnered with MRC Non-Fiction and director Questlove on an upcoming documentary centered on groundbreaking musician Sly Stone. On that project, Oscar and Emmy winner Common serves as EP.
“We are truly blessed to be working with an A-list roster of partners and collaborators on our current projects and upcoming slate,” Gersh said, “and are excited about joining forces with ICM to usher in this next phase of Network’s evolution.
Led by founder and CEO Derik Murray, president & COO Paul Gertz, and SVP & executive producer Brian Gersh, Network is a boutique production company that develops, finances and produces documentary programming for big-screen audiences, TV networks and streamers. Its focus is on projects that celebrate iconic personalities and their legacies, and others honing in on cultural topics within the areas of music, film, comedy, sports, politics and business.
Recently, the company partnered with MRC Non-Fiction and director Questlove on an upcoming documentary centered on groundbreaking musician Sly Stone. On that project, Oscar and Emmy winner Common serves as EP.
“We are truly blessed to be working with an A-list roster of partners and collaborators on our current projects and upcoming slate,” Gersh said, “and are excited about joining forces with ICM to usher in this next phase of Network’s evolution.
- 3/17/2021
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Hey Alexa, how is artificial intelligence reshaping our world? Robert Downey Jr. will explain in The Age of A.I., a new documentary series from YouTube originals that premieres December 18. Check out the first trailer above and key art below.
The eight-episode series takes a deep dive into the fascinating world of the most transformational technology in the history of humankind, per YouTube’s logline. Downey brings an irreverent enthusiasm and curiosity to the screen as the learning series takes an immersive look at artificial intelligence and its potential to change the planet.
In each episode, viewers will meet the people on the front lines of A.I. – the scientists, innovators and dreamers who are shaping the future and the real people whose lives might be changed forever as technology races to tackle some of the world’s greatest challenges.
The premiere episode follows co-founder of Soul Machines, Mark Sagar, an...
The eight-episode series takes a deep dive into the fascinating world of the most transformational technology in the history of humankind, per YouTube’s logline. Downey brings an irreverent enthusiasm and curiosity to the screen as the learning series takes an immersive look at artificial intelligence and its potential to change the planet.
In each episode, viewers will meet the people on the front lines of A.I. – the scientists, innovators and dreamers who are shaping the future and the real people whose lives might be changed forever as technology races to tackle some of the world’s greatest challenges.
The premiere episode follows co-founder of Soul Machines, Mark Sagar, an...
- 12/12/2019
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
Paramount Network’s documentary I Am Patrick Swayze not only made an emotional impression on Sunday night, it delivered impressive numbers ratings-wise. The premiere of the latest installment of Paramount’s I Am docus averaged 1.1 million total viewers.
With the TV Land simulcast and the Paramount Network encore, I Am Patrick Swayze delivered a gross average audience of 2 million total viewers on Sunday. topping Free Solo as cable’s most-watched personality documentary of 2019 in Live+Sd.
In addition, Patrick Swayze is the highest-rated I Am special among the 18-49 and 25-54 demos since 2015’s I Am Chris Farley. With the premiere netting 1.1 million viewers, I Am Patrick Swayze earned a 0.4 P18-49 L+Sd rating and a 0.56 P25-54 rating.
I Am Patrick Swayze is a touching tribute to the prolific actor who died in 2009 at 57. It showcases his life and career through untold stories, exclusive interviews, heartfelt home movies...
With the TV Land simulcast and the Paramount Network encore, I Am Patrick Swayze delivered a gross average audience of 2 million total viewers on Sunday. topping Free Solo as cable’s most-watched personality documentary of 2019 in Live+Sd.
In addition, Patrick Swayze is the highest-rated I Am special among the 18-49 and 25-54 demos since 2015’s I Am Chris Farley. With the premiere netting 1.1 million viewers, I Am Patrick Swayze earned a 0.4 P18-49 L+Sd rating and a 0.56 P25-54 rating.
I Am Patrick Swayze is a touching tribute to the prolific actor who died in 2009 at 57. It showcases his life and career through untold stories, exclusive interviews, heartfelt home movies...
- 8/19/2019
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
Patrick Swayze’s life and legacy will be remembered in an upcoming documentary from Paramount Network and Network Entertainment, titled I Am Patrick Swayze.
The film is the latest installment of Paramount Network’s I Am franchise, and will explore the late actor’s childhood in Texas, his road to fame, and his relationship with widow Lisa Niemi.
The project includes interviews with the late Ghost and Dirty Dancing star’s friends and loved ones, including Niemi, his brother Don Swayze, and co-stars Sam Elliott, Jennifer Grey, C. Thomas Howell, Rob Lowe, Kelly Lynch, Demi Moore, Lori Petty, Marshall R. Teague, director Roland Joffe, agent Nicole David, manager Kate Edwards, personal assistant Rosemary Hygate, stuntman Cliff McLaughlin, and bodyguard Frank Whiteley.
I Am Patrick Swayze, directed by Adrian Buitenhuis, is the latest project from Network Entertainment’s award-winning filmmaker Derik Murray. Executive producers include Paul Gertz, Kent Wingerak, Derik Murray,...
The film is the latest installment of Paramount Network’s I Am franchise, and will explore the late actor’s childhood in Texas, his road to fame, and his relationship with widow Lisa Niemi.
The project includes interviews with the late Ghost and Dirty Dancing star’s friends and loved ones, including Niemi, his brother Don Swayze, and co-stars Sam Elliott, Jennifer Grey, C. Thomas Howell, Rob Lowe, Kelly Lynch, Demi Moore, Lori Petty, Marshall R. Teague, director Roland Joffe, agent Nicole David, manager Kate Edwards, personal assistant Rosemary Hygate, stuntman Cliff McLaughlin, and bodyguard Frank Whiteley.
I Am Patrick Swayze, directed by Adrian Buitenhuis, is the latest project from Network Entertainment’s award-winning filmmaker Derik Murray. Executive producers include Paul Gertz, Kent Wingerak, Derik Murray,...
- 7/9/2019
- by Anita Bennett
- Deadline Film + TV
“Pimps, poverty, racism — he took all that dark shit and made it light,” says writer and historian Dr. Todd Boyd in the Paramount Network’s upcoming documentary I Am Richard Pryor, which dives deep into the life of the titular comedy legend. The film will have its world premiere on March 12 at the SXSW Film Festival in Austin and will debut March 15 on the Paramount Network.
As part of the network’s I Am docuseries, I Am Richard Pryor is directed by Jesse James Miller and explores and celebrates the life and career of the iconic comedian who lifted himself out of poverty to achieve worldwide success. As seen in the trailer above, Miller tells the story of Pryor via his wife Jennifer as well as high-profile comedians, writers, producers and actors including Sandra Bernhard, Ron De Blasio, Michael Epps, Tiffany Haddish, Howie Mandel, Lily Tomlin, Rocco Urbisci, Jimmie Walker and others.
As part of the network’s I Am docuseries, I Am Richard Pryor is directed by Jesse James Miller and explores and celebrates the life and career of the iconic comedian who lifted himself out of poverty to achieve worldwide success. As seen in the trailer above, Miller tells the story of Pryor via his wife Jennifer as well as high-profile comedians, writers, producers and actors including Sandra Bernhard, Ron De Blasio, Michael Epps, Tiffany Haddish, Howie Mandel, Lily Tomlin, Rocco Urbisci, Jimmie Walker and others.
- 2/6/2019
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
“I Am Richard Pryor,” a look at a comedy legend who reinvented stand-up with his confessional style of humor, is being produced for Paramount Network. The film follows Richard Pryor as he rises from his impoverished childhood, growing up in a brothel run by his grandmother, to become the highest-paid performer in the entertainment industry. In addition to being a stand-up legend and a keen social critic of race in America, Pryor starred in “Stir Crazy,” “Silver Streak,” and other Hollywood blockbusters.
The film will be executive produced by Jennifer Lee Pryor, the late comic’s wife. It is being backed by filmmaker Derik Murray’s Network Entertainment and is part of the company’s “I Am” series. The documentaries look at celebrities such as Paul Walker, Heath Ledger, and Steve McQueen.
The Pryor film features interviews with comedians, filmmakers, writers, and collaborators including Lily Tomlin, Tiffany Haddish, Michael Epps,...
The film will be executive produced by Jennifer Lee Pryor, the late comic’s wife. It is being backed by filmmaker Derik Murray’s Network Entertainment and is part of the company’s “I Am” series. The documentaries look at celebrities such as Paul Walker, Heath Ledger, and Steve McQueen.
The Pryor film features interviews with comedians, filmmakers, writers, and collaborators including Lily Tomlin, Tiffany Haddish, Michael Epps,...
- 10/12/2018
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Network Entertainment is teaming with Burt Sugarman on a documentary about the musical variety television series “The Midnight Special.”
Sugarman produced the series, which ran for 450 episodes between 1972 and 1981, and featured performances by James Brown, The Jackson 5, Van Morrison, Marvin Gaye, Rod Stewart, Ike & Tina Turner, Fleetwood Mac, Aerosmith, AC/DC, David Bowie, Aretha Franklin, Helen Reddy, Linda Ronstadt, The Beach Boys, Tanya Tucker, Billy Joel, Loretta Lynn, Emmylou Harris, Prince, Diana Ross, and the Bee Gees. Stand-up comedians Steve Martin, Richard Pryor, and George Carlin also appeared.
The show typically featured guest hosts, and Helen Reddy served as the regular host for parts of 1975 and 1976. Wolfman Jack was the announcer and frequent guest host.
The pilot for the series aired in 1972 as a 90-minute special encouraging young people to vote in the upcoming presidential election. It premiered as a weekly series in 1973 in the 1 a.m. to 2:30 a.
Sugarman produced the series, which ran for 450 episodes between 1972 and 1981, and featured performances by James Brown, The Jackson 5, Van Morrison, Marvin Gaye, Rod Stewart, Ike & Tina Turner, Fleetwood Mac, Aerosmith, AC/DC, David Bowie, Aretha Franklin, Helen Reddy, Linda Ronstadt, The Beach Boys, Tanya Tucker, Billy Joel, Loretta Lynn, Emmylou Harris, Prince, Diana Ross, and the Bee Gees. Stand-up comedians Steve Martin, Richard Pryor, and George Carlin also appeared.
The show typically featured guest hosts, and Helen Reddy served as the regular host for parts of 1975 and 1976. Wolfman Jack was the announcer and frequent guest host.
The pilot for the series aired in 1972 as a 90-minute special encouraging young people to vote in the upcoming presidential election. It premiered as a weekly series in 1973 in the 1 a.m. to 2:30 a.
- 10/1/2018
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
Back in the early 1970s, there weren’t any options for seeing pop music performed live on TV. Lip syncing was king — until The Midnight Special came along in early 1973. Now that series’ creator/Ep, Burt Sugarman, is teaming with Derik Murray’s Network Entertainment to produce a feature documentary about it.
During its eight-season run of 450 90-minute episodes, The Midnight Special offered live performances by such iconic acts as James Brown, Aretha Franklin, the Jackson 5, Van Morrison, Marvin Gaye, Rod Stewart, Ike & Tina Turner, David Bowie, Aerosmith, AC/DC, Linda Ronstadt, Billy Joel, Prince, Diana Ross and the Bee Gees. It also featured stand-up comedy from such masters as Richard Pryor, George Carlin and Steve Martin.
“I’m excited to be working with Network Entertainment’s award-winning team to produce this important retrospective on The Midnight Special,” Sugarman said. “In addition to appealing to those who were fans back in the day,...
During its eight-season run of 450 90-minute episodes, The Midnight Special offered live performances by such iconic acts as James Brown, Aretha Franklin, the Jackson 5, Van Morrison, Marvin Gaye, Rod Stewart, Ike & Tina Turner, David Bowie, Aerosmith, AC/DC, Linda Ronstadt, Billy Joel, Prince, Diana Ross and the Bee Gees. It also featured stand-up comedy from such masters as Richard Pryor, George Carlin and Steve Martin.
“I’m excited to be working with Network Entertainment’s award-winning team to produce this important retrospective on The Midnight Special,” Sugarman said. “In addition to appealing to those who were fans back in the day,...
- 10/1/2018
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
YouTube will explore the world of artificial intelligence in a new docuseries, from Team Downey’s Robert Downey Jr. and Susan Downey, Network Entertainment and Sonar Entertainment. The eight-episode hourlong series will premiere exclusively on YouTube Red in 2019.
Downey Jr. will host and narrate the Untitled A.I. Series, which will feature researchers and leading experts in science, philosophy, technology, engineering, medicine, futurism, entertainment and the arts sharing their perspectives on A.I. The series will explore the impact of A.I. and how it is transforming the way we live and work — both now and in the future.
The Downeys will executive produce with Team Downey’s Emily Ford. The production company’s Evan Moore will oversee the project. Sonar’s Jenna Santoianni and Tom Lesinski also will executive produce. Network Entertainment’s Derik Murray and Paul Gertz will produce the series.
“We are excited to be in business...
Downey Jr. will host and narrate the Untitled A.I. Series, which will feature researchers and leading experts in science, philosophy, technology, engineering, medicine, futurism, entertainment and the arts sharing their perspectives on A.I. The series will explore the impact of A.I. and how it is transforming the way we live and work — both now and in the future.
The Downeys will executive produce with Team Downey’s Emily Ford. The production company’s Evan Moore will oversee the project. Sonar’s Jenna Santoianni and Tom Lesinski also will executive produce. Network Entertainment’s Derik Murray and Paul Gertz will produce the series.
“We are excited to be in business...
- 5/15/2018
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
YouTube Red has ordered a documentary series on artificial intelligence that will be executive produced by Team Downey’s Robert Downey Jr. and Susan Downey.
Downey Jr. will also host and narrate the untitled series, which will feature experts in science, philosophy, technology, engineering, medicine, futurism, entertainment, and the arts telling the story of A.I. The series will explore the impact of A.I. and how it is transforming the way we live and work, both now and in the future. The 8-episode, hour-long series is slated to debut on YouTube Red in 2019.
“Robert and I share a curiosity for A.I., a complicated and often polarizing subject,” said Susan. “Our aim is to explore A.I. through a lens of objectivity and accessibility, in a thoroughly bold, splashy, and entertaining way. We’re thrilled to bring this project to life along with Network Entertainment, Sonar, and YouTube Red.
Downey Jr. will also host and narrate the untitled series, which will feature experts in science, philosophy, technology, engineering, medicine, futurism, entertainment, and the arts telling the story of A.I. The series will explore the impact of A.I. and how it is transforming the way we live and work, both now and in the future. The 8-episode, hour-long series is slated to debut on YouTube Red in 2019.
“Robert and I share a curiosity for A.I., a complicated and often polarizing subject,” said Susan. “Our aim is to explore A.I. through a lens of objectivity and accessibility, in a thoroughly bold, splashy, and entertaining way. We’re thrilled to bring this project to life along with Network Entertainment, Sonar, and YouTube Red.
- 5/15/2018
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Stan Lee to launch new superhero franchise
LAS VEGAS -- Comic book legend Stan Lee and his production shingle POW! Entertainment, along with Brighton Partners, have partnered with Rainmaker Entertainment to launch "Legion of 5", a new superhero property.
"Legion of 5" -- owned jointly by Rainmaker, POW! and Brighton -- is planned as a series of CG-animated films but with a cross-platform approach to include games, online and mobile releases. Merchandizing is part of the plan as well.
Details of the characters and story line are being kept under wraps.
Rainmaker CEO Warren Franklin reported that the partners are raising about $24 million to get things going. "We are hoping to develop a strong franchise with the characters," he said.
Plans call for Vancouver-based computer-animation producer Rainmaker to create the look of the characters as well as develop and produce the feature-length CG-animated film properties.
Lee, Rainmaker's Aaron L. Gilbert and Paul Gertz, Gill Champion of POW! and Cord Beatty of Brighton will exec produce.
Recent film versions of Lee's "X-Men", "Spider-Man", "The Fantastic Four" and "The Hulk" titles have, in contrast to the "Legion" CG project, been live-action productions.
"Legion of 5" -- owned jointly by Rainmaker, POW! and Brighton -- is planned as a series of CG-animated films but with a cross-platform approach to include games, online and mobile releases. Merchandizing is part of the plan as well.
Details of the characters and story line are being kept under wraps.
Rainmaker CEO Warren Franklin reported that the partners are raising about $24 million to get things going. "We are hoping to develop a strong franchise with the characters," he said.
Plans call for Vancouver-based computer-animation producer Rainmaker to create the look of the characters as well as develop and produce the feature-length CG-animated film properties.
Lee, Rainmaker's Aaron L. Gilbert and Paul Gertz, Gill Champion of POW! and Cord Beatty of Brighton will exec produce.
Recent film versions of Lee's "X-Men", "Spider-Man", "The Fantastic Four" and "The Hulk" titles have, in contrast to the "Legion" CG project, been live-action productions.
- 4/15/2008
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Early CG TV gets 'ReBoot'
ReBoot -- one of the earliest computer-animated episodic TV series -- will be redeveloped as a trilogy of feature-length films by Rainmaker Animation.
Originally produced in 1994, the series was created by MainFrame Entertainment, which was acquired by and renamed Rainmaker in 2006. ReBoot aired for several seasons on ABC, YTV and Cartoon Network.
"The idea is to relaunch the brand in a new way," said Rainmaker Animation executive vp Paul Gertz, who will oversee the project.
To do this, Rainmaker has entered into a strategic alliance with Zeros 2 Heroes, a Web site set to launch today(7/23) to provide a social network for comic book fans.
Essentially, five undiscovered writers identified by Rainmaker were selected to work with the animation studio's production teams to prepare a pitch for the new ReBoot story line. These will be posted on the Zeros 2 Heroes site Thursday, the opening day of San Diego Comic-Con International. Those who visit the site will be able to work with each production team to help refine the ideas for ReBoot and later vote and select a favorite pitch.
Originally produced in 1994, the series was created by MainFrame Entertainment, which was acquired by and renamed Rainmaker in 2006. ReBoot aired for several seasons on ABC, YTV and Cartoon Network.
"The idea is to relaunch the brand in a new way," said Rainmaker Animation executive vp Paul Gertz, who will oversee the project.
To do this, Rainmaker has entered into a strategic alliance with Zeros 2 Heroes, a Web site set to launch today(7/23) to provide a social network for comic book fans.
Essentially, five undiscovered writers identified by Rainmaker were selected to work with the animation studio's production teams to prepare a pitch for the new ReBoot story line. These will be posted on the Zeros 2 Heroes site Thursday, the opening day of San Diego Comic-Con International. Those who visit the site will be able to work with each production team to help refine the ideas for ReBoot and later vote and select a favorite pitch.
- 7/23/2007
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Rainmaker plans 3-D ani 'Escape'
The comedy feature Escape From Planet Earth will be produced at Rainmaker Animation for a 3-D stereoscopic digital cinema release.
Production will take place at Rainmaker's Vancouver facility; Escape marks the first theatrical animated feature for the company. The Weinstein Co. is financing the film and will handle worldwide distribution.
Of the 3-D decision, Rainmaker executive vp Paul Gertz said: "That's the way films are going. (Content creators) need to give people an extraordinary experience when they go to the theater. This seems to be the next big leap in the theatrical experience."
Escape is in preproduction. Gertz said that the production pipeline was being refined to accommodate the 3-D component.
The film is being helmed by Tony Leech and was written by Leech and Cory Edwards. The story, based an original idea by Leech, is a comedy about an alien prison break from Area 51.
Producing are Ed Jones and Gregory R. Little of Rainmaker, Preston Stutzman of Blue Yonder Films, Jonathan Shestack of Jon Shestack Prods.
Production will take place at Rainmaker's Vancouver facility; Escape marks the first theatrical animated feature for the company. The Weinstein Co. is financing the film and will handle worldwide distribution.
Of the 3-D decision, Rainmaker executive vp Paul Gertz said: "That's the way films are going. (Content creators) need to give people an extraordinary experience when they go to the theater. This seems to be the next big leap in the theatrical experience."
Escape is in preproduction. Gertz said that the production pipeline was being refined to accommodate the 3-D component.
The film is being helmed by Tony Leech and was written by Leech and Cory Edwards. The story, based an original idea by Leech, is a comedy about an alien prison break from Area 51.
Producing are Ed Jones and Gregory R. Little of Rainmaker, Preston Stutzman of Blue Yonder Films, Jonathan Shestack of Jon Shestack Prods.
- 6/11/2007
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Gertz tops Rainmaker ani unit
Rainmaker, the Vancouver-based digital entertainment company, has named Paul Gertz executive vp of its animation division, which has been rechristened Rainmaker Animation.
Rainmaker got into the toon business in July when it acquired Mainframe Entertainment, which specializes in CG animation.
"With this new division, Rainmaker Animation -- along with our other two divisions, Rainmaker Visual Effects and Rainmaker Post -- we will be able to join forces to maximize our clients' creative vision and cost-saving efforts, and still pursue a wide variety of creative and service projects within each division," Rainmaker Entertainment CEO Warren Franklin said.
Gertz has worked in a number of executive and creative roles, including stints at Lucasfilm, Hanna-Barbera, Turner Feature Animation, Global Digital Creations and the Vancouver Film School. He was the executive producer of the animated feature Titan, A.E. and produced Cats Don't Dance and The Pagemaster.
Rainmaker Animation is at work on an animated version of The Nutty Professor, Zixx and several projects for Mattel.
Rainmaker Visual Effects, headed by Brian Moylan, is working on such projects as Blades of Glory, Vantage Point and La vie en rose. Rainmaker Post, headed by Barry Chambers, continues work on The L Word, Smallville and Stargate: Atlantis.
Rainmaker got into the toon business in July when it acquired Mainframe Entertainment, which specializes in CG animation.
"With this new division, Rainmaker Animation -- along with our other two divisions, Rainmaker Visual Effects and Rainmaker Post -- we will be able to join forces to maximize our clients' creative vision and cost-saving efforts, and still pursue a wide variety of creative and service projects within each division," Rainmaker Entertainment CEO Warren Franklin said.
Gertz has worked in a number of executive and creative roles, including stints at Lucasfilm, Hanna-Barbera, Turner Feature Animation, Global Digital Creations and the Vancouver Film School. He was the executive producer of the animated feature Titan, A.E. and produced Cats Don't Dance and The Pagemaster.
Rainmaker Animation is at work on an animated version of The Nutty Professor, Zixx and several projects for Mattel.
Rainmaker Visual Effects, headed by Brian Moylan, is working on such projects as Blades of Glory, Vantage Point and La vie en rose. Rainmaker Post, headed by Barry Chambers, continues work on The L Word, Smallville and Stargate: Atlantis.
- 1/31/2007
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
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