Once you’ve spent six episodes snarking on the likes of Saddam Hussein, Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler, the idea of wringing wry laughter out of a few cult leaders must not seem intimidating.
At the same time, once you’ve spent six episodes snarking on the likes of Saddam Hussein, Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler, how much challenge is there in poking fun at colorfully outsize personalities and their devoted followers when they’ve already been the butt of jokes for, in some cases, generations?
Those two statements are, respectively, the principle behind and the primary limitation to Netflix’s new six-episode documentary-comedy How to Become a Cult Leader, a follow-up in tone, style and structure to 2021’s How to Become a Tyrant.
Boasting a common production team led by Jake Laufer, Jonas Bell Pasht and Jonah Bekhor, as well as the invaluable support of narrator and executive producer Peter Dinklage,...
At the same time, once you’ve spent six episodes snarking on the likes of Saddam Hussein, Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler, how much challenge is there in poking fun at colorfully outsize personalities and their devoted followers when they’ve already been the butt of jokes for, in some cases, generations?
Those two statements are, respectively, the principle behind and the primary limitation to Netflix’s new six-episode documentary-comedy How to Become a Cult Leader, a follow-up in tone, style and structure to 2021’s How to Become a Tyrant.
Boasting a common production team led by Jake Laufer, Jonas Bell Pasht and Jonah Bekhor, as well as the invaluable support of narrator and executive producer Peter Dinklage,...
- 7/27/2023
- by Daniel Fienberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The History Channel has teamed up with a slew of A-listers on its latest slate of docuseries and non-scripted series.
The A+E Networks cable network has ordered six series from Leonardo DiCaprio, Ray Liotta, Pierce Brosnan, Peyton Manning and Robin Roberts ahead of its latest Upfront ad event.
DiCaprio, who has previously worked with the network on miniseries Grant, is behind docuseries Sitting Bull, Good Morning America’s Roberts is behind WWI series Harlem Hellfighters, NFL legend Manning is behind The Einstein Challenge and History’s Greatest of All-Time with Peyton Manning and Liotta is behind Five Families.
Four-part series Sitting Bull traces the life of the legendary Hunkpapa Lakota chief, a fierce warrior, loving father, and holy man. It will detail seminal moments and key figures in Native American history including the Battle of Little Big Horn, Washita Massacre, Crazy Horse, Battle of Cedar Creek and the Wounded Knee Massacre.
The A+E Networks cable network has ordered six series from Leonardo DiCaprio, Ray Liotta, Pierce Brosnan, Peyton Manning and Robin Roberts ahead of its latest Upfront ad event.
DiCaprio, who has previously worked with the network on miniseries Grant, is behind docuseries Sitting Bull, Good Morning America’s Roberts is behind WWI series Harlem Hellfighters, NFL legend Manning is behind The Einstein Challenge and History’s Greatest of All-Time with Peyton Manning and Liotta is behind Five Families.
Four-part series Sitting Bull traces the life of the legendary Hunkpapa Lakota chief, a fierce warrior, loving father, and holy man. It will detail seminal moments and key figures in Native American history including the Battle of Little Big Horn, Washita Massacre, Crazy Horse, Battle of Cedar Creek and the Wounded Knee Massacre.
- 3/2/2022
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
One of the NFL’s G.O.A.T.s is partnering with History Channel for two new series, one of which focuses on the greatest of all-time.
During Wednesday’s History upfront presentation, the network announced it was teaming up with the former Colts and Broncos star and his company, Omaha Productions, on the one-hour nonfiction series “History’s Greatest of All-Time with Peyton Manning,” and a new competition show called “The Einstein Challenge.”
Manning will host and executive produce “History’s Greatest of All-Time with Peyton Manning,” and each episode will find him counting down G.O.A.T.s from different categories. And it’s not just about sports: the series will look at greatest inventors or presidents among its categories.
The network has ordered eight, one-hour episodes of the series, which is also from Six West Media Group.
“The Einstein Challenge” will see two world-class experts...
During Wednesday’s History upfront presentation, the network announced it was teaming up with the former Colts and Broncos star and his company, Omaha Productions, on the one-hour nonfiction series “History’s Greatest of All-Time with Peyton Manning,” and a new competition show called “The Einstein Challenge.”
Manning will host and executive produce “History’s Greatest of All-Time with Peyton Manning,” and each episode will find him counting down G.O.A.T.s from different categories. And it’s not just about sports: the series will look at greatest inventors or presidents among its categories.
The network has ordered eight, one-hour episodes of the series, which is also from Six West Media Group.
“The Einstein Challenge” will see two world-class experts...
- 3/2/2022
- by Jolie Lash
- The Wrap
Quibi has added three more programs to its Daily Essentials lineup. Sex,/dating/relationships talker Sexology with Shan, fashion review show Fashion’s a Drag and black culture series The Nod with Brittany & Eric are set for the shortform digital platform that launches on April 6.
Here are the descriptions of the new shows, whose brief episodes will run Monday-Friday:
The millennial-focused Sexology with Shan stars Shan Boodram, a certified sexologist and intimacy expert and coach. It will help viewers navigate the realities of sex, dating and relationships today — when the rules of love and attraction are often confusing. The show will be produced by Curly One Productions.
Produced by Quibi and Hearst Originals, Fashion’s a Drag is a daily fashion review talk show inspired by pop culture and hosted by drag queen Wilam. Joined each day by a saucy, opinionated panel of fellow drag queens and a fashion expert from Elle magazine,...
Here are the descriptions of the new shows, whose brief episodes will run Monday-Friday:
The millennial-focused Sexology with Shan stars Shan Boodram, a certified sexologist and intimacy expert and coach. It will help viewers navigate the realities of sex, dating and relationships today — when the rules of love and attraction are often confusing. The show will be produced by Curly One Productions.
Produced by Quibi and Hearst Originals, Fashion’s a Drag is a daily fashion review talk show inspired by pop culture and hosted by drag queen Wilam. Joined each day by a saucy, opinionated panel of fellow drag queens and a fashion expert from Elle magazine,...
- 12/9/2019
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Fuse Media is adding some adult animation to its flagship network’s 2019 lineup, which will also air new seasons of original shows Complex x Fuse and T-Pain’s School of Business.
Sugar and Toys, from Carl Jones and Brian Ash (producers of Black Dynamite and The Boondocks for Adult Swim) will be the first adult animation title on Fuse. It is described by the network as “a wild new twist on the Saturday morning cartoons we all grew up with — but a whole lot less innocent.”
The half-hour comedy sends up toy commercials and PSAs, tackling a range of social issues and featuring bookended host segments with rapper and actor Kyle (Netflix’s The After Party). Along with Jones and Ash, Aengus James and Colin King Miller are executive producers. Kyle Harvey is Co-Executive Producer and Lalo Alcaraz is Consulting Producer. This is Just a Test and 245 Enterprises are producers.
Sugar and Toys, from Carl Jones and Brian Ash (producers of Black Dynamite and The Boondocks for Adult Swim) will be the first adult animation title on Fuse. It is described by the network as “a wild new twist on the Saturday morning cartoons we all grew up with — but a whole lot less innocent.”
The half-hour comedy sends up toy commercials and PSAs, tackling a range of social issues and featuring bookended host segments with rapper and actor Kyle (Netflix’s The After Party). Along with Jones and Ash, Aengus James and Colin King Miller are executive producers. Kyle Harvey is Co-Executive Producer and Lalo Alcaraz is Consulting Producer. This is Just a Test and 245 Enterprises are producers.
- 12/11/2018
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
E! has ordered six new unscripted series, the network announced on Tuesday, including an Ashlee Simpson-Ross docuseries and a talk show from Busy Philipps.
The network also announced the return of “E! True Hollywood Story,” the long-running documentary series that examined the lives of celebrities or pop culture landmarks using archival footage and interviews with people close to the subject.
“Ashlee and Evan” will follow the lives of Simpson-Ross and her husband, Evan Ross, as they attempt to return to the music business by recording their first duet album. “I Feel Pretty” star Busy Philipps will host “Busy Tonight,” a talk show that will feature interviews, commentary and segments relating to her heavy presence on Instagram.
Also Read: Kristin Cavallari Returns to Reality TV With Her Own E! Show
Also ordered to series are “The Funny Dance Show,” an adaptation of the live comedy show “Stand Up 2 the Streets”; “The LadyGang,” a TV version of the PodcastOne show of the same name; and “Nat & Liv,” which will follow Instagram stars and beauty bloggers Natalie Halcro and Olivia Pierson.
See full descriptions of the series below:
Ordered to series:
“Ashlee and Evan” (working title)
This new docu-series will follow actress and singer Ashlee Simpson-Ross and her husband actor and artist Evan Ross. We’ll get an inside look into this young millennial couple as they try to balance life as new parents with a solid foundation of humor and love. Coming from two famous music families, Ashlee and Evan will take viewers inside the recording of their first duet album. Fans will see Evan’s rising star in music and Ashlee cautiously jumping back into the music world. We will watch as they face challenges and success in their marriage and music while receiving the unwavering support from their legendary families and life-long friends. “Ashlee and Evan” is produced by Citizen Jones and Cinema Giants with Jonah Bekhor, Jonas Bell Pasht, Jessy Terrero, Angela Aguilera, Ashlee Simpson-Ross and Evan Ross serving as Executive Producers.
“Busy Tonight” (working title)
Hosted by actress Busy Philipps, “Busy Tonight” features comedic commentary, interviews, and segments that go behind her most popular Instagram stories. Unfiltered, in-the-know and always entertaining, Busy will give us her unique and hilarious point of view on literally everything. Executive Producers for “Busy Tonight” are Busy Philipps, Julie Darmody and Eric Gurian for Little Stranger.
“E! True Hollywood Story”
The series that told Hollywood’s most compelling stories is back. “E! True Hollywood Story” is taking a modern approach, and providing a voice to the moments that are reshaping popular culture. Each self-contained documentary will explore a topic, headline, or person that became the ground zero for a revolution, change or shift in culture, told by the people who were on the frontlines of the story. “E! True Hollywood Story” is produced by Wilshire Studios.
“The Funny Dance Show” (working title)
For more than a year, “Stand Up 2 the Streets” has played to sold-out crowds at the #1 Comedy Club in the country, The Comedy Store. Created and hosted by comedians Justine Marino and Heidi Heaslet, this one-hour format harnesses the conventions and spectacle of dance pop culture found in movies like the wildly popular “Step Up” franchise and TV shows like “So You Think You Can Dance” and “Dancing with the Stars” but with a comedic Pov. In each stand-alone episode, four comic celebrities compete for a donation to the charity of their choice. Anchored by comedian and pop culture expert, Justin Martindale, an irreverent judging panel critiques the performances so that the audience can ultimately vote on the winning team. The series is produced by Ugly Brother with Mike Duffy, Tim Duffy, Justine Marino and Heidi Heaslet serving as Executive Producers.
“The LadyGang” (working title)
What happens when you mix the “Girls Trip” sense of female community with juicy pop culture commentary, no-holds-barred celebrity interviews, and three equally gorgeous and hilarious La ladies? You not only get a “Podcast of the Year” winner with over 22 million listens, but a phenomenon that graced People Magazine and made Entertainment Weekly’s “Must List.” Welcome to the LadyGang, the TV show based on the podcast created by Keltie Knight, Becca Tobin, and Jac Vanek. “The LadyGang” is produced by Purveyors of Pop and Entertainment One (eOne) with Matt Anderson, Nate Green, and Cooper Green for Purveyors of Pop, Tara Long for eOne, Keltie Knight, Becca Tobin, and Jac Vanek serving as Executive Producers.
“Nat & Liv” (working title)
Natalie Halcro and Olivia Pierson are influencers, designers, and fashion & beauty bloggers that have over five million followers on Instagram alone. But more importantly they are family. Cousins and best friends, this docu-series will take us to a part of their lives that we’ve never seen before from Vancouver to Los Angeles. From their hilariously direct older brothers, to Nat’s hippy sister, to their hysterical parents, Nat and Liv’s family will make you laugh and cry… sometimes at the same time. “Nat & Liv” is produced by Machete Productions & Cineflix with Amber Mazzola, Kim Bondi and Dave Hamilton serving as Executive Producers.
In development:
“The Twins Project” (working title)
Three vibrant sets of twins all have their sights set on conquering each of their own worlds. From radio DJs, to pop artists and social media fame, the docs-series will explore their dynamics as siblings, best friends and co-workers while reaching new heights in their careers and choosing to do so together, rather than alone. “The Twins Project” is produced by World of Wonder with Fenton Bailey, Randy Barbato and Tom Campbell serving as Executive Producers.
“Written by the Stars” (working title)
“Written by the Stars” takes the most ridiculous first-hand excerpts from celebrity autobiographies and transports them from the page to the screen. Quoting directly from the books and with the help of a hilarious SNL-esque troop, the most epic celebrity stories come to life – viewers will see their favorite celebrities’ hazy nights, crazy affairs, behind the scene antics, and Hollywood secrets. “Written by the Stars” is produced by Haymaker with Aaron Rothman and Irad Eyal serving as Executive Producers.
“Wonder Women” (working title)
The need for stuntwomen in the entertainment industry has never been greater. This competition-elimination docu-series will follow a stunt director on a journey to find the next great stuntwoman. Each week, hopefuls will face challenges that test their physical, mental, and emotional strength – requiring them to give their all if they want to become the next breakthrough female stunt performer. “Wonder Women” is produced by A. Smith & Co. Productions, with Arthur Smith and Toby Gorman serving as executive producers.
Read original story Ashlee Simpson, Busy Philipps Get New E! Shows, ‘E! True Hollywood Story’ to Return At TheWrap...
The network also announced the return of “E! True Hollywood Story,” the long-running documentary series that examined the lives of celebrities or pop culture landmarks using archival footage and interviews with people close to the subject.
“Ashlee and Evan” will follow the lives of Simpson-Ross and her husband, Evan Ross, as they attempt to return to the music business by recording their first duet album. “I Feel Pretty” star Busy Philipps will host “Busy Tonight,” a talk show that will feature interviews, commentary and segments relating to her heavy presence on Instagram.
Also Read: Kristin Cavallari Returns to Reality TV With Her Own E! Show
Also ordered to series are “The Funny Dance Show,” an adaptation of the live comedy show “Stand Up 2 the Streets”; “The LadyGang,” a TV version of the PodcastOne show of the same name; and “Nat & Liv,” which will follow Instagram stars and beauty bloggers Natalie Halcro and Olivia Pierson.
See full descriptions of the series below:
Ordered to series:
“Ashlee and Evan” (working title)
This new docu-series will follow actress and singer Ashlee Simpson-Ross and her husband actor and artist Evan Ross. We’ll get an inside look into this young millennial couple as they try to balance life as new parents with a solid foundation of humor and love. Coming from two famous music families, Ashlee and Evan will take viewers inside the recording of their first duet album. Fans will see Evan’s rising star in music and Ashlee cautiously jumping back into the music world. We will watch as they face challenges and success in their marriage and music while receiving the unwavering support from their legendary families and life-long friends. “Ashlee and Evan” is produced by Citizen Jones and Cinema Giants with Jonah Bekhor, Jonas Bell Pasht, Jessy Terrero, Angela Aguilera, Ashlee Simpson-Ross and Evan Ross serving as Executive Producers.
“Busy Tonight” (working title)
Hosted by actress Busy Philipps, “Busy Tonight” features comedic commentary, interviews, and segments that go behind her most popular Instagram stories. Unfiltered, in-the-know and always entertaining, Busy will give us her unique and hilarious point of view on literally everything. Executive Producers for “Busy Tonight” are Busy Philipps, Julie Darmody and Eric Gurian for Little Stranger.
“E! True Hollywood Story”
The series that told Hollywood’s most compelling stories is back. “E! True Hollywood Story” is taking a modern approach, and providing a voice to the moments that are reshaping popular culture. Each self-contained documentary will explore a topic, headline, or person that became the ground zero for a revolution, change or shift in culture, told by the people who were on the frontlines of the story. “E! True Hollywood Story” is produced by Wilshire Studios.
“The Funny Dance Show” (working title)
For more than a year, “Stand Up 2 the Streets” has played to sold-out crowds at the #1 Comedy Club in the country, The Comedy Store. Created and hosted by comedians Justine Marino and Heidi Heaslet, this one-hour format harnesses the conventions and spectacle of dance pop culture found in movies like the wildly popular “Step Up” franchise and TV shows like “So You Think You Can Dance” and “Dancing with the Stars” but with a comedic Pov. In each stand-alone episode, four comic celebrities compete for a donation to the charity of their choice. Anchored by comedian and pop culture expert, Justin Martindale, an irreverent judging panel critiques the performances so that the audience can ultimately vote on the winning team. The series is produced by Ugly Brother with Mike Duffy, Tim Duffy, Justine Marino and Heidi Heaslet serving as Executive Producers.
“The LadyGang” (working title)
What happens when you mix the “Girls Trip” sense of female community with juicy pop culture commentary, no-holds-barred celebrity interviews, and three equally gorgeous and hilarious La ladies? You not only get a “Podcast of the Year” winner with over 22 million listens, but a phenomenon that graced People Magazine and made Entertainment Weekly’s “Must List.” Welcome to the LadyGang, the TV show based on the podcast created by Keltie Knight, Becca Tobin, and Jac Vanek. “The LadyGang” is produced by Purveyors of Pop and Entertainment One (eOne) with Matt Anderson, Nate Green, and Cooper Green for Purveyors of Pop, Tara Long for eOne, Keltie Knight, Becca Tobin, and Jac Vanek serving as Executive Producers.
“Nat & Liv” (working title)
Natalie Halcro and Olivia Pierson are influencers, designers, and fashion & beauty bloggers that have over five million followers on Instagram alone. But more importantly they are family. Cousins and best friends, this docu-series will take us to a part of their lives that we’ve never seen before from Vancouver to Los Angeles. From their hilariously direct older brothers, to Nat’s hippy sister, to their hysterical parents, Nat and Liv’s family will make you laugh and cry… sometimes at the same time. “Nat & Liv” is produced by Machete Productions & Cineflix with Amber Mazzola, Kim Bondi and Dave Hamilton serving as Executive Producers.
In development:
“The Twins Project” (working title)
Three vibrant sets of twins all have their sights set on conquering each of their own worlds. From radio DJs, to pop artists and social media fame, the docs-series will explore their dynamics as siblings, best friends and co-workers while reaching new heights in their careers and choosing to do so together, rather than alone. “The Twins Project” is produced by World of Wonder with Fenton Bailey, Randy Barbato and Tom Campbell serving as Executive Producers.
“Written by the Stars” (working title)
“Written by the Stars” takes the most ridiculous first-hand excerpts from celebrity autobiographies and transports them from the page to the screen. Quoting directly from the books and with the help of a hilarious SNL-esque troop, the most epic celebrity stories come to life – viewers will see their favorite celebrities’ hazy nights, crazy affairs, behind the scene antics, and Hollywood secrets. “Written by the Stars” is produced by Haymaker with Aaron Rothman and Irad Eyal serving as Executive Producers.
“Wonder Women” (working title)
The need for stuntwomen in the entertainment industry has never been greater. This competition-elimination docu-series will follow a stunt director on a journey to find the next great stuntwoman. Each week, hopefuls will face challenges that test their physical, mental, and emotional strength – requiring them to give their all if they want to become the next breakthrough female stunt performer. “Wonder Women” is produced by A. Smith & Co. Productions, with Arthur Smith and Toby Gorman serving as executive producers.
Read original story Ashlee Simpson, Busy Philipps Get New E! Shows, ‘E! True Hollywood Story’ to Return At TheWrap...
- 5/1/2018
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
E! has announced six new series, including a talk show hosted by Busy Philipps, and a new docuseries featuring Ashlee Simpson-Ross and her husband Evan Ross. In addition, E! is bringing back long-running franchise E! True Hollywood Story with new episodes. The network also set three unscripted projects in development, including a competition elimination series for stuntwomen from the team behind American Ninja Warrior, a twins docuseries and a comedy that brings celebrity autobiographies to the small screen.
Talk show Busy Tonight, hosted by Philipps, will feature comedic commentary, interviews, and segments that go behind her most popular Instagram stories. Philipps executive produces with Julie Darmody and Eric Gurian for Little Stranger.
Ashlee and Evan
This new docu-series will follow actress and singer Ashlee Simpson-Ross and her husband actor and artist Evan Ross. We’ll get an inside look into this young millennial couple as they try to balance life as new parents with a solid foundation of humor and love. Coming from two famous music families, Ashlee and Evan will take viewers inside the recording of their first duet album. Fans will see Evan’s rising star in music and Ashlee cautiously jumping back into the music world. We will watch as they face challenges and success in their marriage and music while receiving the unwavering support from their legendary families and life-long friends. “Ashlee and Evan” is produced by Citizen Jones and Cinema Giants with Jonah Bekhor, Jonas Bell Pasht, Jessy Terrero, Angela Aguilera, Ashlee Simpson-Ross and Evan Ross serving as Executive Producers.
“Busy Tonight” (working title)
Hosted by actress Busy Philipps, “Busy Tonight” features comedic commentary, interviews, and segments that go behind her most popular Instagram stories. Unfiltered, in-the-know and always entertaining, Busy will give us her unique and hilarious point of view on literally everything. Executive Producers for “Busy Tonight” are Busy Philipps, Julie Darmody and Eric Gurian for Little Stranger.
“E! True Hollywood Story”
The series that told Hollywood’s most compelling stories is back. “E! True Hollywood Story” is taking a modern approach, and providing a voice to the moments that are reshaping popular culture. Each self-contained documentary will explore a topic, headline, or person that became the ground zero for a revolution, change or shift in culture, told by the people who were on the frontlines of the story. “E! True Hollywood Story” is produced by Wilshire Studios.
“The Funny Dance Show” (working title)
For more than a year, “Stand Up 2 the Streets” has played to sold-out crowds at the #1 Comedy Club in the country, The Comedy Store. Created and hosted by comedians Justine Marino and Heidi Heaslet, this one-hour format harnesses the conventions and spectacle of dance pop culture found in movies like the wildly popular “Step Up” franchise and TV shows like “So You Think You Can Dance” and “Dancing with the Stars” but with a comedic Pov. In each stand-alone episode, four comic celebrities compete for a donation to the charity of their choice. Anchored by comedian and pop culture expert, Justin Martindale, an irreverent judging panel critiques the performances so that the audience can ultimately vote on the winning team. The series is produced by Ugly Brother with Mike Duffy, Tim Duffy, Justine Marino and Heidi Heaslet serving as Executive Producers.
“The LadyGang” (working title)
What happens when you mix the “Girls Trip” sense of female community with juicy pop culture commentary, no-holds-barred celebrity interviews, and three equally gorgeous and hilarious La ladies? You not only get a “Podcast of the Year” winner with over 22 million listens, but a phenomenon that graced People Magazine and made Entertainment Weekly’s “Must List.” Welcome to the LadyGang, the TV show based on the podcast created by Keltie Knight, Becca Tobin, and Jac Vanek. “The LadyGang” is produced by Purveyors of Pop and Entertainment One (eOne) with Matt Anderson, Nate Green, and Cooper Green for Purveyors of Pop, Tara Long for eOne, Keltie Knight, Becca Tobin, and Jac Vanek serving as Executive Producers.
“Nat & Liv” (working title)
Natalie Halcro and Olivia Pierson are influencers, designers, and fashion & beauty bloggers that have over five million followers on Instagram alone. But more importantly they are family. Cousins and best friends, this docu-series will take us to a part of their lives that we’ve never seen before from Vancouver to Los Angeles. From their hilariously direct older brothers, to Nat’s hippy sister, to their hysterical parents, Nat and Liv’s family will make you laugh and cry… sometimes at the same time. “Nat & Liv” is produced by Machete Productions & Cineflix with Amber Mazzola, Kim Bondi and Dave Hamilton serving as Executive Producers.
Three unscripted projects in development include:
“The Twins Project” (working title)
Three vibrant sets of twins all have their sights set on conquering each of their own worlds. From radio DJs, to pop artists and social media fame, the docs-series will explore their dynamics as siblings, best friends and co-workers while reaching new heights in their careers and choosing to do so together, rather than alone. “The Twins Project” is produced by World of Wonder with Fenton Bailey, Randy Barbato and Tom Campbell serving as Executive Producers.
“Written by the Stars” (working title)
“Written by the Stars” takes the most ridiculous first-hand excerpts from celebrity autobiographies and transports them from the page to the screen. Quoting directly from the books and with the help of a hilarious SNL-esque troop, the most epic celebrity stories come to life – viewers will see their favorite celebrities’ hazy nights, crazy affairs, behind the scene antics, and Hollywood secrets. “Written by the Stars” is produced by Haymaker with Aaron Rothman and Irad Eyal serving as Executive Producers.
“Wonder Women” (working title)
The need for stuntwomen in the entertainment industry has never been greater. This competition-elimination docu-series will follow a stunt director on a journey to find the next great stuntwoman. Each week, hopefuls will face challenges that test their physical, mental, and emotional strength – requiring them to give their all if they want to become the next breakthrough female stunt performer. “Wonder Women” is produced by A. Smith & Co. Productions, with Arthur Smith and Toby Gorman serving as executive producers.
Talk show Busy Tonight, hosted by Philipps, will feature comedic commentary, interviews, and segments that go behind her most popular Instagram stories. Philipps executive produces with Julie Darmody and Eric Gurian for Little Stranger.
Ashlee and Evan
This new docu-series will follow actress and singer Ashlee Simpson-Ross and her husband actor and artist Evan Ross. We’ll get an inside look into this young millennial couple as they try to balance life as new parents with a solid foundation of humor and love. Coming from two famous music families, Ashlee and Evan will take viewers inside the recording of their first duet album. Fans will see Evan’s rising star in music and Ashlee cautiously jumping back into the music world. We will watch as they face challenges and success in their marriage and music while receiving the unwavering support from their legendary families and life-long friends. “Ashlee and Evan” is produced by Citizen Jones and Cinema Giants with Jonah Bekhor, Jonas Bell Pasht, Jessy Terrero, Angela Aguilera, Ashlee Simpson-Ross and Evan Ross serving as Executive Producers.
“Busy Tonight” (working title)
Hosted by actress Busy Philipps, “Busy Tonight” features comedic commentary, interviews, and segments that go behind her most popular Instagram stories. Unfiltered, in-the-know and always entertaining, Busy will give us her unique and hilarious point of view on literally everything. Executive Producers for “Busy Tonight” are Busy Philipps, Julie Darmody and Eric Gurian for Little Stranger.
“E! True Hollywood Story”
The series that told Hollywood’s most compelling stories is back. “E! True Hollywood Story” is taking a modern approach, and providing a voice to the moments that are reshaping popular culture. Each self-contained documentary will explore a topic, headline, or person that became the ground zero for a revolution, change or shift in culture, told by the people who were on the frontlines of the story. “E! True Hollywood Story” is produced by Wilshire Studios.
“The Funny Dance Show” (working title)
For more than a year, “Stand Up 2 the Streets” has played to sold-out crowds at the #1 Comedy Club in the country, The Comedy Store. Created and hosted by comedians Justine Marino and Heidi Heaslet, this one-hour format harnesses the conventions and spectacle of dance pop culture found in movies like the wildly popular “Step Up” franchise and TV shows like “So You Think You Can Dance” and “Dancing with the Stars” but with a comedic Pov. In each stand-alone episode, four comic celebrities compete for a donation to the charity of their choice. Anchored by comedian and pop culture expert, Justin Martindale, an irreverent judging panel critiques the performances so that the audience can ultimately vote on the winning team. The series is produced by Ugly Brother with Mike Duffy, Tim Duffy, Justine Marino and Heidi Heaslet serving as Executive Producers.
“The LadyGang” (working title)
What happens when you mix the “Girls Trip” sense of female community with juicy pop culture commentary, no-holds-barred celebrity interviews, and three equally gorgeous and hilarious La ladies? You not only get a “Podcast of the Year” winner with over 22 million listens, but a phenomenon that graced People Magazine and made Entertainment Weekly’s “Must List.” Welcome to the LadyGang, the TV show based on the podcast created by Keltie Knight, Becca Tobin, and Jac Vanek. “The LadyGang” is produced by Purveyors of Pop and Entertainment One (eOne) with Matt Anderson, Nate Green, and Cooper Green for Purveyors of Pop, Tara Long for eOne, Keltie Knight, Becca Tobin, and Jac Vanek serving as Executive Producers.
“Nat & Liv” (working title)
Natalie Halcro and Olivia Pierson are influencers, designers, and fashion & beauty bloggers that have over five million followers on Instagram alone. But more importantly they are family. Cousins and best friends, this docu-series will take us to a part of their lives that we’ve never seen before from Vancouver to Los Angeles. From their hilariously direct older brothers, to Nat’s hippy sister, to their hysterical parents, Nat and Liv’s family will make you laugh and cry… sometimes at the same time. “Nat & Liv” is produced by Machete Productions & Cineflix with Amber Mazzola, Kim Bondi and Dave Hamilton serving as Executive Producers.
Three unscripted projects in development include:
“The Twins Project” (working title)
Three vibrant sets of twins all have their sights set on conquering each of their own worlds. From radio DJs, to pop artists and social media fame, the docs-series will explore their dynamics as siblings, best friends and co-workers while reaching new heights in their careers and choosing to do so together, rather than alone. “The Twins Project” is produced by World of Wonder with Fenton Bailey, Randy Barbato and Tom Campbell serving as Executive Producers.
“Written by the Stars” (working title)
“Written by the Stars” takes the most ridiculous first-hand excerpts from celebrity autobiographies and transports them from the page to the screen. Quoting directly from the books and with the help of a hilarious SNL-esque troop, the most epic celebrity stories come to life – viewers will see their favorite celebrities’ hazy nights, crazy affairs, behind the scene antics, and Hollywood secrets. “Written by the Stars” is produced by Haymaker with Aaron Rothman and Irad Eyal serving as Executive Producers.
“Wonder Women” (working title)
The need for stuntwomen in the entertainment industry has never been greater. This competition-elimination docu-series will follow a stunt director on a journey to find the next great stuntwoman. Each week, hopefuls will face challenges that test their physical, mental, and emotional strength – requiring them to give their all if they want to become the next breakthrough female stunt performer. “Wonder Women” is produced by A. Smith & Co. Productions, with Arthur Smith and Toby Gorman serving as executive producers.
- 5/1/2018
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
To mix things up for its 15th annual edition, the TromaDance film festival has moved! (Yet again.) This year, the grotesque festivities will take place on June 27-28 at The Paper Box art space in Brooklyn, NY and will include loads of short films and four features.
The features are: Drew Bolduc‘s hotly anticipated Science Team, the follow-up to his masterful exercise in offensiveness, The Taint; the acclaimed penile documentary The Final Member by Jonah Bekhor and Zach Math; Olivier Beguin’s new twist on vampirism, Chimeres; and the fighting cannibal action of Evil Feed by Ray Smith.
The short films include international offensiveness and gore from such far-flung places as Italy, Belgium, Estonia, Australia and, of course, the good ol’ U.S. of A.
The full TromaDance lineup is below. For more info, please visit the fest’s official website.
June 27
5:30 p.m.: “Short Films Block 1″
The Bachelorette Party,...
The features are: Drew Bolduc‘s hotly anticipated Science Team, the follow-up to his masterful exercise in offensiveness, The Taint; the acclaimed penile documentary The Final Member by Jonah Bekhor and Zach Math; Olivier Beguin’s new twist on vampirism, Chimeres; and the fighting cannibal action of Evil Feed by Ray Smith.
The short films include international offensiveness and gore from such far-flung places as Italy, Belgium, Estonia, Australia and, of course, the good ol’ U.S. of A.
The full TromaDance lineup is below. For more info, please visit the fest’s official website.
June 27
5:30 p.m.: “Short Films Block 1″
The Bachelorette Party,...
- 6/23/2014
- by Mike Everleth
- Underground Film Journal
Is there a good reason why I was recently sent a bottled bull penis in the mail? Actually, yes (although, of course, the bull might disagree). The item was “gift” from Drafthouse Films to promote new documentary The Final Member, which was released on Blu-ray and DVD earlier in the week.
Directed by Jonah Bekhor and Zach Math Siggi, the film profiles Sigurður “Siggi” Hjartarson, who has spent four decades collecting mammalian penises for his Phallological Museum in Husavik, Iceland. But Hjartarson is desperate to acquire the penis of one particular animal. Can you guess what it is?
Check out...
Directed by Jonah Bekhor and Zach Math Siggi, the film profiles Sigurður “Siggi” Hjartarson, who has spent four decades collecting mammalian penises for his Phallological Museum in Husavik, Iceland. But Hjartarson is desperate to acquire the penis of one particular animal. Can you guess what it is?
Check out...
- 6/18/2014
- by Clark Collis
- EW - Inside Movies
Are you one of those people who finds it awkward watching movies about genitalia around other people? Well, then, you're in luck because Jonah Bekhor and Zach Math's acclaimed documentary The Final Member - telling the tale of two men vying to make the first human donation to an Icelandic penis museum - hits DVD and BluRay from Drafthouse Films tomorrow.Paris has the Louvre, London has the Tate Modern, and New York the Metropolitan Museum. But Husavik, Iceland-a diminutive village on the fringe of the Arctic Circle-boasts the world's only museum devoted exclusively to painstakingly preserved male genitalia. Founded and curated by Sigurður "Siggi" Hjartarson, the Icelandic Phallological Museum houses four decades worth of mammalian members, from a petite field mouse to the colossal sperm...
[Read the whole post on twitchfilm.com...]...
[Read the whole post on twitchfilm.com...]...
- 6/16/2014
- Screen Anarchy
Why would a man want to remove his fully-functional, healthy penis? That’s the focus of an exclusive clip we’re proud to premiere from Jonah Bekhor and Zach Math‘s new film, The Final Member. The documentary, which expands in theaters Friday, is about the world’s only penis museum and the struggle to acquire a human specimen. Two men […]
The post Exclusive Clip From Penis Documentary ‘The Final Member’ appeared first on /Film.
The post Exclusive Clip From Penis Documentary ‘The Final Member’ appeared first on /Film.
- 4/25/2014
- by Germain Lussier
- Slash Film
The world’s only penis museum is no joke, but there’s plenty funny (and enlightening, and poignant) in this sweet portrait of a man dedicated to completing his life’s work. I’m “biast” (pro): nothing
I’m “biast” (con): nothing
(what is this about? see my critic’s minifesto)
A penis museum. Officially, The Icelandic Phallological Museum. When directors Jonah Bekhor and Zach Math made this charming film about its proprietor, Sigurður Hjartarson, the museum was located in the tiny, remote village of Husavik, but it would appear that its stock has risen considerably since The Final Member made its debut at the Hot Docs documentary festival two years ago: the museum now calls Reykjavik home. Which will make it slightly easier for the world to come to this extraordinary place, and meet the man who runs it. Though Hjartarson admits here that the museum started,...
I’m “biast” (con): nothing
(what is this about? see my critic’s minifesto)
A penis museum. Officially, The Icelandic Phallological Museum. When directors Jonah Bekhor and Zach Math made this charming film about its proprietor, Sigurður Hjartarson, the museum was located in the tiny, remote village of Husavik, but it would appear that its stock has risen considerably since The Final Member made its debut at the Hot Docs documentary festival two years ago: the museum now calls Reykjavik home. Which will make it slightly easier for the world to come to this extraordinary place, and meet the man who runs it. Though Hjartarson admits here that the museum started,...
- 4/25/2014
- by MaryAnn Johanson
- www.flickfilosopher.com
What We Can Learn from the Men Who Raced to Be the First Penis in a Museum "I have no use for my penis after I'm dead." by kate hakala As I walked into the screening of Jonah Bekhor and Zack Math's The Final Member, I expected a two-hour-long fluff documentary about a kooky man who collects phallic-shaped objects. What I got instead was a thought-provoking and oddly gripping character study about mortality, masculinity, and ego. The documentary covers Siggi Hjartarson, founder of the one and only Icelandic Phallological Museum, on his 40-year quest to find a human penis to complete his collection of mammalian members. At the forefront of the race to donate his penis to the museum is Pall Arason, a national hero and adventurer of sorts, who kept a long diary of his 300-odd conquests during his life. Thought to be a [...]...
- 4/17/2014
- by Kate Hakala
- Nerve
"There is more space in the house now," says the wife of Sigurdur "Siggi" Hjartarson. It's her only comment regarding her husband's decision to display his collection of hundreds of carefully preserved mammalian penises — we're talking the whole spectrum, from a mouse to a mammoth sperm whale organ — at the Iceland Phallological Museum in the small sub-arctic town of Husavik.
Jonah Bekhor and Zach Math's film is like the Vice documentary that got away. Most of it chronicles Hjartarson as he strives for the final frontier: a Homo sapiens specimen to complete his collection. Describing his search for a human male donor without loosing an avalanche of bawdy puns is going to prove hard — rather, difficult — but here goes. The top candidates are a local ge...
Jonah Bekhor and Zach Math's film is like the Vice documentary that got away. Most of it chronicles Hjartarson as he strives for the final frontier: a Homo sapiens specimen to complete his collection. Describing his search for a human male donor without loosing an avalanche of bawdy puns is going to prove hard — rather, difficult — but here goes. The top candidates are a local ge...
- 4/16/2014
- Village Voice
The Final Member
Directed by Jonah Bekhor and Zach Math
2012, Canada
Reykjavik, Iceland is home to the singular and beloved Icelandic Phallological Museum. Begun in earnest by Siggi Hjartarson out of his own home in Husavik 40 years prior, the museum now features the world’s largest collection of preserved mammalian penises. Running the gamut from a 2mm hamster penis bone to several unbelievably massive whale penises, the museum is an astounding personal accomplishment. But Siggi’s collection remains incomplete without its missing piece, its crown jewel, its Final Member–the genitalia of a human male.
How does one get to that point in life? When the last driving force in your long life is the acquisition of human penis? The Final Member offers a clue. In fact, within moments of introducing Siggi Hjartarson, this documentary elicits a deep empathy for the man’s modest ambition. Of course dude needs a...
Directed by Jonah Bekhor and Zach Math
2012, Canada
Reykjavik, Iceland is home to the singular and beloved Icelandic Phallological Museum. Begun in earnest by Siggi Hjartarson out of his own home in Husavik 40 years prior, the museum now features the world’s largest collection of preserved mammalian penises. Running the gamut from a 2mm hamster penis bone to several unbelievably massive whale penises, the museum is an astounding personal accomplishment. But Siggi’s collection remains incomplete without its missing piece, its crown jewel, its Final Member–the genitalia of a human male.
How does one get to that point in life? When the last driving force in your long life is the acquisition of human penis? The Final Member offers a clue. In fact, within moments of introducing Siggi Hjartarson, this documentary elicits a deep empathy for the man’s modest ambition. Of course dude needs a...
- 4/10/2014
- by Emmet Duff
- SoundOnSight
Potential penis donors, take note: Your specimen must reach a certain minimum length to be considered. And sorry, historical precedent means that the curators of the Icelandic Phallological Museum will not be going soft on their requirements. Also read: Drafthouse Buys Movie ‘The Final Member’ – About World's Lone Penis Museum Once upon a time, filmmakers Jonah Bekhor and Zach Math sought out to learn all they could about the world's only penis museum; the result of their journey is the documentary, “The Final Member.” Among the many quirky facts discovered by the documentarians was the existence of an old folk tale,...
- 4/9/2014
- by Jordan Zakarin
- The Wrap
Above: German poster for Last Year At Marienbad (Alain Resnais, France, 1961), artist: Tostmann.
Over the past three months of Movie Poster of the Day, the two most popular posters by far were two beautiful (each in their own very distinct way) posters that I posted in memoriam of two dearly departed auteurs: Alan Resnais and Harold Ramis. And two other posters among the most popular (i.e. most liked or reblogged) were those posted in celebration of Philip Seymour Hoffman, including Chris Ware’s lovely 2007 design for The Savages, one of my favorite posters of last decade. So, if nothing else, Movie Poster of the Day has recorded the saddest losses of the year. (Not forgetting the adorable Swedish poster I posted for Shirley Temple which didn’t make the Top 20.)
I’m happy to see a number of new posters here: a very popular Dutch Wolf of Wall Street,...
Over the past three months of Movie Poster of the Day, the two most popular posters by far were two beautiful (each in their own very distinct way) posters that I posted in memoriam of two dearly departed auteurs: Alan Resnais and Harold Ramis. And two other posters among the most popular (i.e. most liked or reblogged) were those posted in celebration of Philip Seymour Hoffman, including Chris Ware’s lovely 2007 design for The Savages, one of my favorite posters of last decade. So, if nothing else, Movie Poster of the Day has recorded the saddest losses of the year. (Not forgetting the adorable Swedish poster I posted for Shirley Temple which didn’t make the Top 20.)
I’m happy to see a number of new posters here: a very popular Dutch Wolf of Wall Street,...
- 4/4/2014
- by Adrian Curry
- MUBI
The Icelandic Phallogical Museum is exactly what it sounds like—an institution dedicated to the history of the penis in all its shapes and sizes, but it's missing one key specimen: a human organ. And that's the starting point for "The Final Member," a documentary about founder and curator Sigurdur Hjartarson's quest to complete his collection. Directed by Jonah Bekhor and Zach Math, the doc tells the tale of two men who want leave their, uh, legacy behind. First is 95-year-old Icelander Páll Arason, something of a legend in his native country, and a notorious womanizer, claiming to have slept with over 400 women. And his cock is fairly average in size, which makes middle-aged American Tom Mitchell's seven-inch penis a bit more prized, especially when he offers to donate it to the museum while he's still alive. Yes, this is a remarkable true story and in this clip you...
- 4/2/2014
- by Kevin Jagernauth
- The Playlist
"I've always had a dream of fame and fortune... for Elmo" Today's indie trailer is for a rather awkwardly yet oddly amusing documentary called The Final Member, about the one-and-only Icelandic Phallological Museum that houses the world's largest collection of preserved male genitalia (collected for over 40 years!). So what makes this worthwhile? The story focuses on three people: curator Sigurður "Siggi" Hjartarson, as well as the two eccentric men who want to donate their own specimens to the museum. The doc eventually becomes about the challenges of making a tough decision, and crazy enough, I have to say that this looks fascinating. Best of all, Drafthouse Films is releasing it which means it's certainly unlike anything out there. Here's the official trailer for Jonah Bekhor & Zach Math's The Final Member, direct from YouTube: Paris has the Louvre. London has the Tate Modern, and New York the Metropolitan Museum. But Husavik,...
- 2/23/2014
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
Some things are simply too strange to be anything else but true. Jonah Bekhor and Zach Math's acclaimed documentary The Final Member is very much one of those things.Paris has the Louvre, London has the Tate Modern, and New York the Metropolitan Museum. But Husavik, Iceland-a diminutive village on the fringe of the Arctic Circle-boasts the world's only museum devoted exclusively to painstakingly preserved male genitalia. Founded and curated by Sigurður "Siggi" Hjartarson, the Icelandic Phallological Museum houses four decades worth of mammalian members, from a petite field mouse to the colossal sperm whale, and every "thing" in between. Lamentably, Siggi's collection lacks the holy grail of phallic phantasmagoria: a human specimen. Siggi's world changes dramatically when he receives generous offers from an elderly Icelandic...
[Read the whole post on twitchfilm.com...]...
[Read the whole post on twitchfilm.com...]...
- 2/20/2014
- Screen Anarchy
The one "thing" this Icelandic museum is missing is a human specimen. A trailer and poster have arrived for Drafthouse Films' doc "The Final Member," which chronicles the world's sole penis museum's "quest for one last endowment," i.e. a human phallus to add to their collection. Give it a gander, below. The film, helmed by Jonah Bekhor and Zach Math, has its theatrical and VOD release on April 18, 2014. Here's the official synopsis:Paris has the Louvre, London has the Tate Modern, and New York the Metropolitan Museum. But Husavik, Iceland-a diminutive village on the fringe of the Arctic Circle-boasts the world's only museum devoted exclusively to painstakingly preserved male genitalia. Founded and curated by Sigurður "Siggi" Hjartarson, the Icelandic Phallological Museum houses four decades worth of mammalian members, from a petite field mouse to the colossal sperm whale, and everything in between. Lamentably, Siggi's collection lacks the holy grail of phallic phantasmagoria: a.
- 2/20/2014
- by Beth Hanna
- Thompson on Hollywood
Drafthouse Films have sent along the latest trailer as well as the first poster for their "The Final Member" documentary directed and produced by Jonah Bekhor and Zach Math. Paris has the Louvre, London has the Tate Modern, and New York the Metropolitan Museum. But Husavik, Iceland-a diminutive village on the fringe of the Arctic Circle-boasts the world's only museum devoted exclusively to painstakingly preserved male genitalia. Founded and curated by Sigurður "Siggi" Hjartarson, the Icelandic Phallological Museum houses four decades worth of mammalian members, from a petite...
- 2/20/2014
- Upcoming-Movies.com
"The world's only penis museum needs one last endowment." That's the tagline for "The Final Member," the documentary following Sigurdur Hjartarson, the founding curator of the Icelandic Phallogical Mueseum. After collecting an array of specimens from a range of species, he's looking for a final member to complete the intriguing display of his life's work: from a human. Directors Jonah Bekhor and Zach Math head this production, a 75-minute documentary from Drafthouse Films. The Us release date is April 18th. Check out the fun title sequence here, and behold the poster below. [Olly Moss and Jay Shaw designed the poster]...
- 2/18/2014
- by Taylor Lindsay
- Indiewire
Drafthouse Films acquired North American distribution rights to “The Final Member,” Jonah Bekhor and Zach Math’s documentary about the world’s only museum dedicated to preserved male genitalia. The film tracks Sigurour “Siggi” Hjartarson, who founded the Icelandic Phallological Museum. The museum is home to decades of phalli, displaying the members of both mice and whales. The one thing it is missing: human genitalia. Also read: Breaking Glass Pictures Nabs U.S. Rights to Penis Documentary ‘Unhung Hero’ “The Final Member,” which has screened at HotDocs, Fantastic Fest and Doc NYC, will open in theaters next year. Drafthouse will release the movie in theaters.
- 11/19/2013
- by Lucas Shaw
- The Wrap
Drafthouse Films has picked up North American rights to Jonah Bekhor and Zach Math’s documentary The Final Member, while in a separate deal CNN Films has acquired Us broadcast rights to Documented.
The Final Member has screened at HotDocs, SilverDocs, Fantastic Fest and Doc NYC and centres on an Icelandic museum dedicated to the penis.
Jonah Bekhor and Zach Math mark their feature directorial debuts. Drafthouse Films brokered the deal with The Film Sales Company and plans a platform theatrical, VOD and partnered digital release with Vhx in 2014.
CNN Films has acquired Us broadcast rights to the immigration documentary Documented, about the Pulitzer Prize-winning Philippines-born journalist Jose Antonio Vargas.
The film will premiere on CNN in the second quarter of 2014 as a CNN Films broadcast following its international debut at the Idfa and theatrical distribution in the Us.
Vargas wrote and directed the film about his personal immigration story. Sean Parker, [link...
The Final Member has screened at HotDocs, SilverDocs, Fantastic Fest and Doc NYC and centres on an Icelandic museum dedicated to the penis.
Jonah Bekhor and Zach Math mark their feature directorial debuts. Drafthouse Films brokered the deal with The Film Sales Company and plans a platform theatrical, VOD and partnered digital release with Vhx in 2014.
CNN Films has acquired Us broadcast rights to the immigration documentary Documented, about the Pulitzer Prize-winning Philippines-born journalist Jose Antonio Vargas.
The film will premiere on CNN in the second quarter of 2014 as a CNN Films broadcast following its international debut at the Idfa and theatrical distribution in the Us.
Vargas wrote and directed the film about his personal immigration story. Sean Parker, [link...
- 11/19/2013
- ScreenDaily
Though the world is full of wondrous and beautiful things, an Icelandic man felt that penises weren't given their fair shake. Sigurour "Siggi" Hjartarson founded the world's first and only Phallological Museum which preserves four decades worth of mammalian members, covering all shapes, sizes, and girths. However, Siggi's "Moby Dick" is the long sought after human specimen. The documentary "The Final Member" by first time filmmakers Jonah Bekhor and Zach Math follow Siggi on his quest to hunt down the "tent pole" to his museum. Drafthouse Films has acquired the North American rights to the phallically inspired picture and plans a platformed theatrical, VOD and partnered digital release with Vhx for 2014. Watch the title sequence for the documentary below featuring cascading montage of "One eyed monsters."...
- 11/19/2013
- by James Hiler
- Indiewire
The 7th annual Sydney Underground Film Festival, which runs this year on September 5-8 at the Factory Theatre, opens with a real bang when they will screen cult filmmaker Alejandro Jodorowsky’s latest cinematic odyssey, The Dance of Reality. This is Jodorowsky’s first film in over twenty years and is an imaginative and playful quasi-autobiography.
The rest of the four-day celebration is packed with more film oddities and excursions into surreal and transgressive territory. One particular highlight that is not to be missed is Don Swaynos’ incredibly crowd-pleasing comedy Pictures of Superheroes, about a slacker cleaning woman’s descent into an absurd world she can’t escape. Read the Underground Film Journal’s review of Pictures of Superheroes here.
Other twisted fiction films screening include Drew Tobias’s sick and twisted See You Next Tuesday, Cody Calahan’s apocalyptic Antisocial and Lloyd Kaufman’s highly-anticipated sequel Return to Nuke ‘Em High: Vol.
The rest of the four-day celebration is packed with more film oddities and excursions into surreal and transgressive territory. One particular highlight that is not to be missed is Don Swaynos’ incredibly crowd-pleasing comedy Pictures of Superheroes, about a slacker cleaning woman’s descent into an absurd world she can’t escape. Read the Underground Film Journal’s review of Pictures of Superheroes here.
Other twisted fiction films screening include Drew Tobias’s sick and twisted See You Next Tuesday, Cody Calahan’s apocalyptic Antisocial and Lloyd Kaufman’s highly-anticipated sequel Return to Nuke ‘Em High: Vol.
- 8/15/2013
- by Mike Everleth
- Underground Film Journal
We’ve all been there, regardless of which side we’re on, hearing complaints of men being obsessed with their, um… let’s call them members for the sake of a family-friendly review. With that said, it’s a tired — if not occasionally accurate — stereotypical sort of debate. An ageless battle of the sexes, if you will. So, I must admit that when I first heard of a new documentary that’s all about a man obsessed with “members” of all types, my mind began to shut down in response to what I was sure would be a lousy film. Oh, boy… was I wrong!
As much as I would love to tell you this film has no Freudian content, I would be a bald-faced liar if I did, so what I will tell you is that The Final Member is an absolutely mesmerizing documentary that takes ownership of all...
As much as I would love to tell you this film has no Freudian content, I would be a bald-faced liar if I did, so what I will tell you is that The Final Member is an absolutely mesmerizing documentary that takes ownership of all...
- 10/19/2012
- by Travis Keune
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Chicago – The 48th Annual Chicago International Film Festival boasts one of the starriest opening nights in its history, with Al Pacino, Christopher Walken, Alan Arkin and Jon Bon Jovi all scheduled to walk the red carpet for the October 11th world premiere of Fisher Stevens’ crime comedy, “Stand Up Guys.” Yet that is far from the only picture worthy of attention at the year’s festival. Here are the highlights of the opening weekend covering October 11th to October 14th, 2012 (stay tuned on the 15th and 18th for more highlights).
Throughout the festival, Hollywood Chicago will be showcasing various films that deserve to not be overlooked. The opening act of this year’s Ciff includes a mind-bending fantasy that caused a sensation at Cannes and a riveting Wisconsin-set documentary that offers an unforgettable microcosm of the financial crisis. Also screening are the latest buzzed-about titles from directors including Romanian auteur Cristian Mungiu (“4 Months,...
Throughout the festival, Hollywood Chicago will be showcasing various films that deserve to not be overlooked. The opening act of this year’s Ciff includes a mind-bending fantasy that caused a sensation at Cannes and a riveting Wisconsin-set documentary that offers an unforgettable microcosm of the financial crisis. Also screening are the latest buzzed-about titles from directors including Romanian auteur Cristian Mungiu (“4 Months,...
- 10/11/2012
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
The Final member
Directed by Jonah Bekhor and Zach Math
2012, Canada
Reykjavik, Iceland is home to the singular and beloved Icelandic Phallological Museum. Begun in earnest by Siggi Hjartarson out of his own home in Husavik 40 years prior, the museum now features the world’s largest collection of preserved mammalian penises. Running the gamut from a 2mm hamster penis bone to several unbelievably massive whale penises, the museum is an astounding personal accomplishment. But Siggi’s collection remains incomplete without its missing piece, its crown jewel, its Final Member–the genitalia of a human male.
How does one get to that point in life? When the last driving force in your long life is the acquisition of human penis? The Final Member offers a clue. In fact, within moments of introducing Siggi Hjartarson, this documentary elicits a deep empathy for the man’s modest ambition. Of course dude needs a...
Directed by Jonah Bekhor and Zach Math
2012, Canada
Reykjavik, Iceland is home to the singular and beloved Icelandic Phallological Museum. Begun in earnest by Siggi Hjartarson out of his own home in Husavik 40 years prior, the museum now features the world’s largest collection of preserved mammalian penises. Running the gamut from a 2mm hamster penis bone to several unbelievably massive whale penises, the museum is an astounding personal accomplishment. But Siggi’s collection remains incomplete without its missing piece, its crown jewel, its Final Member–the genitalia of a human male.
How does one get to that point in life? When the last driving force in your long life is the acquisition of human penis? The Final Member offers a clue. In fact, within moments of introducing Siggi Hjartarson, this documentary elicits a deep empathy for the man’s modest ambition. Of course dude needs a...
- 10/2/2012
- by Emmet Duff
- SoundOnSight
Directors Jonah Bekhor and Zach Math follow the final work of the creator and curator of the Icelandic Phallological Museum, the only penis museum in the world, in the documentary The Final Member. Beginning in 1974 when he was 17 as the result of of a joke, Sigurdur Hjartarson has collected specimens from every known species of mammal save one.
Documenting Hjartarson's mission to complete the collection takes the filmmaking team from Iceland to the U.S. to meet a man who wants to donate his own member to the museum. His desire to achieve fame for his penis becomes a large focus of the documentary, which pits him against a famous Icelandic nonogenarian who also wants the honor of being the first donor. The ego battle between them is perhaps more interesting than the museum collection itself.
read more...
Documenting Hjartarson's mission to complete the collection takes the filmmaking team from Iceland to the U.S. to meet a man who wants to donate his own member to the museum. His desire to achieve fame for his penis becomes a large focus of the documentary, which pits him against a famous Icelandic nonogenarian who also wants the honor of being the first donor. The ego battle between them is perhaps more interesting than the museum collection itself.
read more...
- 9/28/2012
- by Mike Saulters
- Slackerwood
Directed by: Jonah Bekhor and Zach Math
Featuring: Sigurdur Hjartarson, Páll Arason, Tom (the American)
Known as the "penis documentary" to pretty much all Fantastic Fest attendees, I have to admit The Final Member wasn't exactly first-choice viewing for me. Though I freely admit to loving documentaries — especially quirky ones — I wasn't sure if this was something I wanted in front of me on my Ff plate, as it were.
Focusing on Sigurdur Hjartarson, the owner and curator of Iceland's phallological museum, The Final Member follows the affectionately nicknamed "Siggi" on his quest to complete his mammalian penis collection with a human specimen. This mission is exactly as baffling and intriguing as one might think it is, but also surprisingly moving. What results from directors Bekhor and Math's careful pacing and editing is a very strange documentary with a lot of heart — and, yes, a lot of penises too.
As...
Featuring: Sigurdur Hjartarson, Páll Arason, Tom (the American)
Known as the "penis documentary" to pretty much all Fantastic Fest attendees, I have to admit The Final Member wasn't exactly first-choice viewing for me. Though I freely admit to loving documentaries — especially quirky ones — I wasn't sure if this was something I wanted in front of me on my Ff plate, as it were.
Focusing on Sigurdur Hjartarson, the owner and curator of Iceland's phallological museum, The Final Member follows the affectionately nicknamed "Siggi" on his quest to complete his mammalian penis collection with a human specimen. This mission is exactly as baffling and intriguing as one might think it is, but also surprisingly moving. What results from directors Bekhor and Math's careful pacing and editing is a very strange documentary with a lot of heart — and, yes, a lot of penises too.
As...
- 9/27/2012
- by Kayley Viteo
- Planet Fury
Austin, TX-Wednesday, September 12, 2012- Fantastic Fest is thrilled to announce the final installment of programming for Fantastic Fest 2012, including the world premiere screening of The Collection. Fantastic Fest will take place September 20-27 in Austin, Texas at the Alamo Drafthouse South Lamar.
American Mary (2011)
Us Premiere
Directors – Jen and Sylvia Soska, 95 mins
Disillusioned with her chosen profession and perpetually broke, medical student Mary Mason finds herself drawn into a shady world of underground surgery and body modification.
Antiviral (2012)
Us Premiere
Director – Brandon Cronenberg, 110 mins
Syd March makes people sick, infecting them with viruses harvested to order from celebrities, but gets more than he bargained for when his most famous source dies from a virus Syd has just infected himself with.
Berberian Sound Studio (2012)
Us Premiere
Director – Peter Strickland, 92 mins
Strange things occur after a British audio technician is summoned to Italy to work on a gory giallo film.
Besties (2012)
World Premiere
Director – Rebecca Perry Cutter,...
American Mary (2011)
Us Premiere
Directors – Jen and Sylvia Soska, 95 mins
Disillusioned with her chosen profession and perpetually broke, medical student Mary Mason finds herself drawn into a shady world of underground surgery and body modification.
Antiviral (2012)
Us Premiere
Director – Brandon Cronenberg, 110 mins
Syd March makes people sick, infecting them with viruses harvested to order from celebrities, but gets more than he bargained for when his most famous source dies from a virus Syd has just infected himself with.
Berberian Sound Studio (2012)
Us Premiere
Director – Peter Strickland, 92 mins
Strange things occur after a British audio technician is summoned to Italy to work on a gory giallo film.
Besties (2012)
World Premiere
Director – Rebecca Perry Cutter,...
- 9/14/2012
- by Travis Keune
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Wow! I literally just jumped up for joy hearing this final wave. I think that this might be my favorite selection of films since I have been attending. Films like American Mary, Antiviral, Berberian Sound Studio, the remake of Who Can Kill A Child? – Come Out and Play and the World Premiere of the sequel to The Collector! These films plus a few others just caps off what I’m sure will be my favorite Fantastic Fest yet!
Also, for those keeping score, Michael picked 7 movies that are definitely showing while I picked 6. However, this could change once the secret screenings show. Again, Fantastic Fest starts next Thursday and we plan to have reviews, interviews and possibly video & audio blogs. Anyway, here’s the announcement:
From the Press Release:
Fantastic Fest is thrilled to announce the final installment of programming for Fantastic Fest 2012, including the world premiere screening of The Collection.
Also, for those keeping score, Michael picked 7 movies that are definitely showing while I picked 6. However, this could change once the secret screenings show. Again, Fantastic Fest starts next Thursday and we plan to have reviews, interviews and possibly video & audio blogs. Anyway, here’s the announcement:
From the Press Release:
Fantastic Fest is thrilled to announce the final installment of programming for Fantastic Fest 2012, including the world premiere screening of The Collection.
- 9/12/2012
- by Andy Triefenbach
- Destroy the Brain
If the films announced so far weren't enough to get you to travel to Austin later this month, this last wave of programming should have you packing your bags immediately! Read on for details.
From the Press Release:
Fantastic Fest is thrilled to announce the final installment of programming for Fantastic Fest 2012, including the world premiere screening of The Collection. Fantastic Fest (official site here) will take place September 20-27 in Austin, Texas, at the Alamo Drafthouse South Lamar.
Related Story: Fantastic Fest 2012: First Wave of Films Announced
Related Story: Fantastic Fest 2012: Second Wave of Films Announced
Related Story: Fantastic Fest 2012: Short Films Announced
American Mary (2011)
Us Premiere
Directors - Jen and Sylvia Soska, 95 mins
Disillusioned with her chosen profession and perpetually broke, medical student Mary Mason finds herself drawn into a shady world of underground surgery and body modification.
Antiviral (2012)
Us Premiere
Director - Brandon Cronenberg,...
From the Press Release:
Fantastic Fest is thrilled to announce the final installment of programming for Fantastic Fest 2012, including the world premiere screening of The Collection. Fantastic Fest (official site here) will take place September 20-27 in Austin, Texas, at the Alamo Drafthouse South Lamar.
Related Story: Fantastic Fest 2012: First Wave of Films Announced
Related Story: Fantastic Fest 2012: Second Wave of Films Announced
Related Story: Fantastic Fest 2012: Short Films Announced
American Mary (2011)
Us Premiere
Directors - Jen and Sylvia Soska, 95 mins
Disillusioned with her chosen profession and perpetually broke, medical student Mary Mason finds herself drawn into a shady world of underground surgery and body modification.
Antiviral (2012)
Us Premiere
Director - Brandon Cronenberg,...
- 9/12/2012
- by The Woman In Black
- DreadCentral.com
There are few movies this year where you'll see a man get the stars and stripes of the American flag tattooed on the head of his penis. But then again, there are few documentaries like "The Final Member," a warm look at a quirky subject that gets to the human story behind it.
Meet Sigurdur Hjartarson, the founder and curator of the Icelandic Phallogical Museum, the only museum in the world dedicated to the penis. Receiving a bull penis as a gag gift in the '70s, something clicked in Sigurdur's brain and the next thing he knew, he was collecting specimens from any animal he could get his hands on, slowly filling his house with jars of penises of all shapes and sizes, from nearly every creature that walks, swims or flies that you can think of. With his home quickly becoming cluttered, his understanding family joked that he should he open a museum,...
Meet Sigurdur Hjartarson, the founder and curator of the Icelandic Phallogical Museum, the only museum in the world dedicated to the penis. Receiving a bull penis as a gag gift in the '70s, something clicked in Sigurdur's brain and the next thing he knew, he was collecting specimens from any animal he could get his hands on, slowly filling his house with jars of penises of all shapes and sizes, from nearly every creature that walks, swims or flies that you can think of. With his home quickly becoming cluttered, his understanding family joked that he should he open a museum,...
- 5/2/2012
- by Kevin Jagernauth
- The Playlist
Zach Math and Jonah Bekhor know what you might be thinking, but their doc about the Icelandic Phallological Museum, "The Final Member," is not just another dirty night at the movies.
After hearing about curator Sigurdur ('Siggy') Hjartarson and his search for a human penis -- the only specimen missing from his massive collection that covers the house mouse to the sperm whale -- the guys hopped on a plane to Iceland from their current homes in Los Angeles. The rest is for you to discover and enjoy in this fascinating doc.
We caught up with the filmmakers at the Hot Docs Film Festival in Toronto.
How did you make the decision to drop everything and cover the final stages of Sigurdur Hjartarson's 40-year penis odyssey?
Zach Math: After I heard about it, I told the story to Jonah and said my mind was blown, and his mind was blown.
After hearing about curator Sigurdur ('Siggy') Hjartarson and his search for a human penis -- the only specimen missing from his massive collection that covers the house mouse to the sperm whale -- the guys hopped on a plane to Iceland from their current homes in Los Angeles. The rest is for you to discover and enjoy in this fascinating doc.
We caught up with the filmmakers at the Hot Docs Film Festival in Toronto.
How did you make the decision to drop everything and cover the final stages of Sigurdur Hjartarson's 40-year penis odyssey?
Zach Math: After I heard about it, I told the story to Jonah and said my mind was blown, and his mind was blown.
- 5/1/2012
- by Moviefone Canada
- Huffington Post
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