Amazon Prime Video has greenlit “The Greatest,” the first-ever authorized scripted series about the life of Muhammad Ali. Jaalen Best will star as Ali while Ben Watkins, creator of Amazon’s upcoming Alex Cross series, is set as showrunner.
“The Greatest” was produced in collaboration with Ali’s estate, with his widow Lonnie Ali serving as executive producer. The series’ official description reads, “The amazing victories and defeats that made Ali a legend, both in and out of the ring, have been well documented and while those landmark events will live in ‘The Greatest,’ the heartbeat of the story is fueled by all the moments that took place outside of the spotlight. The world remembers an icon, but ‘The Greatest’ is about a man, a husband, a father, a brother and a son.
Ali’s life rights were originally acquired by executive producer Josh Wakely, who brought the project to Amazon.
“The Greatest” was produced in collaboration with Ali’s estate, with his widow Lonnie Ali serving as executive producer. The series’ official description reads, “The amazing victories and defeats that made Ali a legend, both in and out of the ring, have been well documented and while those landmark events will live in ‘The Greatest,’ the heartbeat of the story is fueled by all the moments that took place outside of the spotlight. The world remembers an icon, but ‘The Greatest’ is about a man, a husband, a father, a brother and a son.
Ali’s life rights were originally acquired by executive producer Josh Wakely, who brought the project to Amazon.
- 7/11/2024
- by Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
Prime Video has formally ordered The Greatest limited series, from executive producer Michael B. Jordan (The Creed franchise) and executive producer/showrunner Ben Watkins (Cross). Considered the first authorized scripted series about the life of Muhammad Ali done with access to his estate, The Greatest will star Jaalen Best (All American: Homecoming) as the boxing legend.
The series will feature the defining moments in Ali’s life and career — both in and out of the ring — that have been well documented as well as moments that took place outside the spotlight. The world remembers an icon, but The Greatest is about a man, a husband, a father, a brother, and a son.
It is produced by Michael B. Jordan’s Outlier Society, which has an overall deal with Amazon MGM Studios, Watkins’ Blue Monday Productions, Authentic Studios, Roc Nation, Polygram Entertainment, a Universal Music Group partner, and Grace: A Storytelling Company,...
The series will feature the defining moments in Ali’s life and career — both in and out of the ring — that have been well documented as well as moments that took place outside the spotlight. The world remembers an icon, but The Greatest is about a man, a husband, a father, a brother, and a son.
It is produced by Michael B. Jordan’s Outlier Society, which has an overall deal with Amazon MGM Studios, Watkins’ Blue Monday Productions, Authentic Studios, Roc Nation, Polygram Entertainment, a Universal Music Group partner, and Grace: A Storytelling Company,...
- 7/11/2024
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
A film chronicling the relationship between Black Sabbath frontman Ozzy Osbourne and Sharon Osbourne is in the works.
A biopic about Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne is still in the works.
The as-yet-untitled film was formally announced in October 2021, when it was confirmed that both Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne’s music will feature.
Sony Pictures and Polygram are behind the project, which will focus on a twenty year period between 1979 and 1999. Lee Hall, who won huge acclaim for his screenplay for Elton John biopic Rocketman in 2018, will write the script.
Sharon and Jack Osbourne revealed the update on their podcast The Osbournes (as picked up by Planet Rock), where Ozzy, in typically unabashed style, commented on the slow progress of the film, saying “By the time it’s eventually filmed, I’ll be dead! I wanna be alive to f—ing see it”.
Going on to discuss who could play Ozzy,...
A biopic about Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne is still in the works.
The as-yet-untitled film was formally announced in October 2021, when it was confirmed that both Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne’s music will feature.
Sony Pictures and Polygram are behind the project, which will focus on a twenty year period between 1979 and 1999. Lee Hall, who won huge acclaim for his screenplay for Elton John biopic Rocketman in 2018, will write the script.
Sharon and Jack Osbourne revealed the update on their podcast The Osbournes (as picked up by Planet Rock), where Ozzy, in typically unabashed style, commented on the slow progress of the film, saying “By the time it’s eventually filmed, I’ll be dead! I wanna be alive to f—ing see it”.
Going on to discuss who could play Ozzy,...
- 3/13/2024
- by Jake Godfrey
- Film Stories
Sinatra, The Musical has cast Tony Award-winning actor-singer Matt Doyle as Frank Sinatra in the world premiere production of the musical bearing Ol’ Blue Eyes’ name, to be staged at Birmingham Rep in Birmingham, England, from September 23 through October 28.
The musical, first reported exclusively by Deadline last year, features a book by Memphis and Diana writer Joe Dipietro and direction and choreography by three-time Tony winner Kathleen Marshall. Sinatra, The Musical is presented by Birmingham Rep in association with Michele Anthony, Bruce Resnikoff and Scott Landis for Universal Music Group Theatrical and and Tina Sinatra and Charles Pignone on behalf of Frank Sinatra Enterprises.
The musical includes more than 25 songs popularized by Sinatra, with 20 actors and 17 musicians taking part.
And leading the company will be Doyle, who won a 2022 Tony Award for his performance in Broadway’s Company revival directed by Marianne Elliott. Other Broadway credits include The Book of Mormon,...
The musical, first reported exclusively by Deadline last year, features a book by Memphis and Diana writer Joe Dipietro and direction and choreography by three-time Tony winner Kathleen Marshall. Sinatra, The Musical is presented by Birmingham Rep in association with Michele Anthony, Bruce Resnikoff and Scott Landis for Universal Music Group Theatrical and and Tina Sinatra and Charles Pignone on behalf of Frank Sinatra Enterprises.
The musical includes more than 25 songs popularized by Sinatra, with 20 actors and 17 musicians taking part.
And leading the company will be Doyle, who won a 2022 Tony Award for his performance in Broadway’s Company revival directed by Marianne Elliott. Other Broadway credits include The Book of Mormon,...
- 7/11/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Polygram Entertainment, the film and television division of Universal Music Group, has announced that Daniel Inkeles will become the new senior vice president of film and television development and production.
Prior to his promotion, Inkeles was the vice president of scripted film and television for Umg. In that role he served as executive producer of NBC’s musical comedy “Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist.” During the series’ two-season run, it was nominated for seven Emmys, winning one for Outstanding Choreography for Scripted Programming. Inkeles was also an executive producer for Alison Ellwood’s Critics Choice-winning documentary “The Go-Go’s,” which centered around the American rock band of the same name, as well as the 2019 film, “Billie,” James Erskine’s documentary about Billie Holiday.
Inkeles is based in Los Angeles and will report to David Blackman, the executive vice president and head of film and television development and production for Umg.
Also Read:
‘Louis Armstrong...
Prior to his promotion, Inkeles was the vice president of scripted film and television for Umg. In that role he served as executive producer of NBC’s musical comedy “Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist.” During the series’ two-season run, it was nominated for seven Emmys, winning one for Outstanding Choreography for Scripted Programming. Inkeles was also an executive producer for Alison Ellwood’s Critics Choice-winning documentary “The Go-Go’s,” which centered around the American rock band of the same name, as well as the 2019 film, “Billie,” James Erskine’s documentary about Billie Holiday.
Inkeles is based in Los Angeles and will report to David Blackman, the executive vice president and head of film and television development and production for Umg.
Also Read:
‘Louis Armstrong...
- 6/1/2023
- by Kayla Cobb
- The Wrap
HBO Original documentary Love To Love You, Donna Summer, directed by Oscar® and Emmy®-winning filmmaker Roger Ross Williams and Brooklyn Sudano, daughter of Donna Summer, debuts Saturday, May 20 (8:00-10:00 p.m. Et/Pt) on HBO and will be available to stream on HBO Max. The documentary had its international premiere at the 73rd Berlin International Film Festival and its domestic premiere at SXSW.
Synopsis: Shaped by Summer’s own reflections, the memories of close family, friends and colleagues, and filled with the sounds of Summer’s songs, Love To Love You, Donna Summer is an in-depth look at the iconic artist as she creates music that takes her from the avant-garde music scene in Germany, to the glitter and bright lights of dance clubs in New York, to worldwide acclaim, her voice becoming the defining soundtrack of an era. A deeply personal portrait of Summer on and off the stage,...
Synopsis: Shaped by Summer’s own reflections, the memories of close family, friends and colleagues, and filled with the sounds of Summer’s songs, Love To Love You, Donna Summer is an in-depth look at the iconic artist as she creates music that takes her from the avant-garde music scene in Germany, to the glitter and bright lights of dance clubs in New York, to worldwide acclaim, her voice becoming the defining soundtrack of an era. A deeply personal portrait of Summer on and off the stage,...
- 4/29/2023
- by TV Shows Martin Cid Magazine
- Martin Cid - TV
Paul McCartney is getting the documentary treatment from Oscar-winning filmmaker Morgan Neville.
Neville helped announce the news Saturday afternoon inside Milk Studios, host of Universal Music Group’s star-studded artist showcase, an annual Grammy weekend event presented by chairman and CEO Lucian Grainge that typically features a packed program of musical performances mixed with some breaking news on Uni film projects. Today’s installment, the first showcase in three years due to the pandemic, was no different with news on McCartney, a feature documentary on Grammy winner Jon Batiste from Oscar- and Emmy-nominated filmmaker Matthew Heineman and a spring release date on HBO for Love to Love You, Donna Summer.
The McCartney project is titled Man on the Run and comes from Mpl Communications (the umbrella company for McCartney’s business interests) and Polygram Entertainment (the film and TV division of Umg). Per official intel, the film will focus on...
Neville helped announce the news Saturday afternoon inside Milk Studios, host of Universal Music Group’s star-studded artist showcase, an annual Grammy weekend event presented by chairman and CEO Lucian Grainge that typically features a packed program of musical performances mixed with some breaking news on Uni film projects. Today’s installment, the first showcase in three years due to the pandemic, was no different with news on McCartney, a feature documentary on Grammy winner Jon Batiste from Oscar- and Emmy-nominated filmmaker Matthew Heineman and a spring release date on HBO for Love to Love You, Donna Summer.
The McCartney project is titled Man on the Run and comes from Mpl Communications (the umbrella company for McCartney’s business interests) and Polygram Entertainment (the film and TV division of Umg). Per official intel, the film will focus on...
- 2/5/2023
- by Chris Gardner
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: Paul McCartney’s incredible creative output in the decade after he left The Beatles will come into focus in Man on the Run (working title), a documentary to be directed by Oscar and Grammy winner Morgan Neville.
Mpl and Polygram Entertainment – the film and television unit of Universal Music Group – announced the project today, a day before the 65th Annual Grammy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles. The feature film will explore “Paul McCartney’s extraordinary life following the breakup of The Beatles and how the love he shared with Linda McCartney influenced a journey that would lead to the formation of Wings and more of the greatest music ever created.”
Paul and Linda McCartney, circa 1970.
Neville, whose directing credits include 20 Feet From Stardom, Won’t You Be My Neighbor, and Roadrunner: An Anthony Bourdain Movie, has been granted access to never-before-seen home videos and photos from the archives...
Mpl and Polygram Entertainment – the film and television unit of Universal Music Group – announced the project today, a day before the 65th Annual Grammy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles. The feature film will explore “Paul McCartney’s extraordinary life following the breakup of The Beatles and how the love he shared with Linda McCartney influenced a journey that would lead to the formation of Wings and more of the greatest music ever created.”
Paul and Linda McCartney, circa 1970.
Neville, whose directing credits include 20 Feet From Stardom, Won’t You Be My Neighbor, and Roadrunner: An Anthony Bourdain Movie, has been granted access to never-before-seen home videos and photos from the archives...
- 2/4/2023
- by Matthew Carey
- Deadline Film + TV
HBO Original documentary Love To Love You, Donna Summer, directed by Oscar® and Emmy®-winning filmmaker Roger Ross Williams and Brooklyn Sudano, daughter of Donna Summer, debuts May 2023 on HBO and will be available to stream on HBO Max.
Synopsis: Shaped by Summer’s own reflections, the memories of close family, friends and colleagues, and filled with the sounds of Summer’s songs, Love To Love You, Donna Summer is an in-depth look at the iconic artist as she creates music that takes her from the avant-garde music scene in Germany, to the glitter and bright lights of dance clubs in New York, to worldwide acclaim, her voice and artistry becoming the defining soundtrack of an era. A deeply personal portrait of Summer on and off the stage, the film features a wealth of photographs and never-before-seen home video footage – often shot by Summer herself – and provides a rich window...
Synopsis: Shaped by Summer’s own reflections, the memories of close family, friends and colleagues, and filled with the sounds of Summer’s songs, Love To Love You, Donna Summer is an in-depth look at the iconic artist as she creates music that takes her from the avant-garde music scene in Germany, to the glitter and bright lights of dance clubs in New York, to worldwide acclaim, her voice and artistry becoming the defining soundtrack of an era. A deeply personal portrait of Summer on and off the stage, the film features a wealth of photographs and never-before-seen home video footage – often shot by Summer herself – and provides a rich window...
- 2/3/2023
- by TV Shows Martin Cid Magazine
- Martin Cid - TV
Last week, City of Hope, one of the largest cancer research and treatment organizations in the United States, honored Republic founders, chief executives and brothers Monte and Avery Lipman at its Music, Film and Entertainment Industry group’s Spirit of Life Gala.
Avery Lipman, Nick Jonas, Kevin Jonas, Joe Jonas, Monte Lipman
Held at the Pacific Design Center, the annual event featured performances by the evening’s host, legendary singer, actor, writer and director Billy Porter, as well as Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Jack Johnson, brand new Republic Records signee Sekou, and surprise guests the Jonas Brothers.
“The generosity of these leaders in the music, film and entertainment industry have helped City of Hope establish a national footprint and deliver its leading-edge research and treatment to more patients, families and communities across the U.S.,” said City of Hope’s CEO Robert Stone, the Helen and Morgan Chu Chief Executive Officer Distinguished Chair.
Avery Lipman, Nick Jonas, Kevin Jonas, Joe Jonas, Monte Lipman
Held at the Pacific Design Center, the annual event featured performances by the evening’s host, legendary singer, actor, writer and director Billy Porter, as well as Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Jack Johnson, brand new Republic Records signee Sekou, and surprise guests the Jonas Brothers.
“The generosity of these leaders in the music, film and entertainment industry have helped City of Hope establish a national footprint and deliver its leading-edge research and treatment to more patients, families and communities across the U.S.,” said City of Hope’s CEO Robert Stone, the Helen and Morgan Chu Chief Executive Officer Distinguished Chair.
- 10/31/2022
- Look to the Stars
Louis Armstrong in “Louis Armstrong’s Black & Blues,” coming soon to Apple TV+. “Louis Armstrong’s Black & Blues” offers an intimate and revealing look at the world-changing musician, presented through a lens of archival footage and never-before-heard home recordings and personal conversations. This definitive documentary, directed by Sacha Jenkins, honors Armstrong’s legacy as a founding father of jazz, one of the first internationally known and beloved stars, and a cultural ambassador of the United States. The film shows how Armstrong’s own life spans the shift from the Civil War to the Civil Rights movement, and how he became a lightning rod figure in that turbulent era.
The documentary is directed and produced by Emmy-nominated Sacha Jenkins, and produced by Imagine Documentaries, Sara Bernstein, Justin Wilkes and Julie Anderson along with executive producers Brian Grazer and Ron Howard. The film is produced in association with Universal Music Group’s...
The documentary is directed and produced by Emmy-nominated Sacha Jenkins, and produced by Imagine Documentaries, Sara Bernstein, Justin Wilkes and Julie Anderson along with executive producers Brian Grazer and Ron Howard. The film is produced in association with Universal Music Group’s...
- 10/13/2022
- by Hollywood Outbreak
- HollywoodOutbreak.com
Apple Original Films has released the trailer for “Louis Armstrong’s Black & Blues,” a revealing documentary about the beloved jazz legend.
Offering an intimate, never-before-seen look at the world-changing musician, and presented through a lens of archival footage and previously unheard home recordings and personal conversations, the documentary will premiere in select theaters and stream globally on Apple TV+ on Oct. 28.
Also Read:
Ryan Reynolds and Qui Nguyen Developing Film Based on Disney Theme Park Element ‘Society of Explorers and Adventures’
“Do you think you’ve lost a step by being born Black in a white country?” an interviewer asks Armstrong in the trailer’s opening clip. “No,” the musician responds. “I don’t look at it that way.”
Per the feature’s synopsis, “This definitive documentary, directed by Sacha Jenkins, honors Armstrong’s legacy as a founding father of jazz, one of the first internationally known and beloved stars,...
Offering an intimate, never-before-seen look at the world-changing musician, and presented through a lens of archival footage and previously unheard home recordings and personal conversations, the documentary will premiere in select theaters and stream globally on Apple TV+ on Oct. 28.
Also Read:
Ryan Reynolds and Qui Nguyen Developing Film Based on Disney Theme Park Element ‘Society of Explorers and Adventures’
“Do you think you’ve lost a step by being born Black in a white country?” an interviewer asks Armstrong in the trailer’s opening clip. “No,” the musician responds. “I don’t look at it that way.”
Per the feature’s synopsis, “This definitive documentary, directed by Sacha Jenkins, honors Armstrong’s legacy as a founding father of jazz, one of the first internationally known and beloved stars,...
- 10/13/2022
- by Umberto Gonzalez
- The Wrap
The lives and epic love story of rocker Ozzy Osbourne and manager and personality Sharon Osbourne will be the subject of an upcoming feature film.
The untitled project comes from Polygram Entertainment, and will follow a biopic format centering on their decades-long bond — one that exploded to the heights of pop culture with the flagship MTV reality series “The Osbournes.” Oscar nominee Lee Hall (“Billy Elliot”) is scripting the project.
“Our relationship at times was often wild, insane and dangerous but it was our undying love that kept us together,” said Sharon Osbourne. “We’re thrilled to partner with Sony Pictures and Polygram to bring our story to the screen.”
Sharon and her kids Jack Osborune and Aimée Osbourne are producing via their label Osbourne Media, with Michele Anthony and David Blackman on behalf of Polygram Entertainment. Andrea Giannetti is overseeing development for Sony.
Music will obviously play a large role in the film,...
The untitled project comes from Polygram Entertainment, and will follow a biopic format centering on their decades-long bond — one that exploded to the heights of pop culture with the flagship MTV reality series “The Osbournes.” Oscar nominee Lee Hall (“Billy Elliot”) is scripting the project.
“Our relationship at times was often wild, insane and dangerous but it was our undying love that kept us together,” said Sharon Osbourne. “We’re thrilled to partner with Sony Pictures and Polygram to bring our story to the screen.”
Sharon and her kids Jack Osborune and Aimée Osbourne are producing via their label Osbourne Media, with Michele Anthony and David Blackman on behalf of Polygram Entertainment. Andrea Giannetti is overseeing development for Sony.
Music will obviously play a large role in the film,...
- 10/21/2021
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Global Citizen Live has revealed the Los Angeles and London performer lineups for its worldwide show on September 25.
Stevie Wonder, Adam Lambert, Chloe x Halle, Demi Lovato, H.E.R., OneRepublic, Ozuna, The Lumineers and 5 Seconds of Summer will play L.A.’s Greek Theatre as part of the multiple-network, 24-hour event, which will feature performances on six continents. Wonder also played the 2017 Global Citizen Festival in New York’s Central Park.
Across the pond, Duran Duran will headline the London show at a Tba location, with Kylie Minogue, Måneskin, Nile Rodgers and Chic and Rag’n’Bone Man also set. See the full lineups for the main concerts in New York City, Paris and Lagos, Nigeria, here.
Broadcast and streaming partners for Global Citizen Live include ABC, ABC News Live, BBC, FX, iHeartRadio, Hulu, YouTube, Time and Twitter.
Global Citizen, the international advocacy group behind the Vax Live concert...
Stevie Wonder, Adam Lambert, Chloe x Halle, Demi Lovato, H.E.R., OneRepublic, Ozuna, The Lumineers and 5 Seconds of Summer will play L.A.’s Greek Theatre as part of the multiple-network, 24-hour event, which will feature performances on six continents. Wonder also played the 2017 Global Citizen Festival in New York’s Central Park.
Across the pond, Duran Duran will headline the London show at a Tba location, with Kylie Minogue, Måneskin, Nile Rodgers and Chic and Rag’n’Bone Man also set. See the full lineups for the main concerts in New York City, Paris and Lagos, Nigeria, here.
Broadcast and streaming partners for Global Citizen Live include ABC, ABC News Live, BBC, FX, iHeartRadio, Hulu, YouTube, Time and Twitter.
Global Citizen, the international advocacy group behind the Vax Live concert...
- 9/9/2021
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
On the heels of two momentous performances on Sunday’s American Music Awards and ahead of the arrival of a new Netflix documentary, singer/songwriter Shawn Mendes, along with his longtime manager Andrew Gertler, have announced their entry into original content with Permanent Content, a new film and television production company that will develop scripted and documentary projects “focused on issues that impact or are important to today’s youth.”
Among its first projects is the Netflix Original documentary, “In Wonder,” which chronicles Mendes’ rise to the top strata of pop music. Noted video director Grant Singer directed the feature-length doc which was executive produced by Mendes and Gertler (for Permanent Content) and Ben Winston for Fulwell73.
“I’m so excited for the launch of Permanent Content, with the Netflix documentary as our first project, and so many more exciting things we’re working on,” said Mendes. “Our goal is...
Among its first projects is the Netflix Original documentary, “In Wonder,” which chronicles Mendes’ rise to the top strata of pop music. Noted video director Grant Singer directed the feature-length doc which was executive produced by Mendes and Gertler (for Permanent Content) and Ben Winston for Fulwell73.
“I’m so excited for the launch of Permanent Content, with the Netflix documentary as our first project, and so many more exciting things we’re working on,” said Mendes. “Our goal is...
- 11/23/2020
- by Jazz Tangcay and Shirley Halperin
- Variety Film + TV
Women’S Media Center Co-Founders Jane Fonda, Robin Morgan, and Gloria Steinem, announced today that The Women’S Media Center will celebrate its 15th anniversary by hosting the first-ever Women’S Media Center Benefit Auction. The auction will be launched on November 9th and will continue until November 15th.
An all-star list of artists, musicians, actors, and activists are supporting the Wmc Benefit Auction by donating unique auction items, autographed instruments, fashion, scripts, art, rock and film memorabilia, and special experiences, like a week at a castle in Ireland, a heavenly week in Hawaii, and the Chairman’s Cabin at Sundance.
Musicians Who Have Donated Auction Items
Jackson Browne
Billie Eilish
Melissa Etheridge
Janita
Joan Jett
Blake Morgan
Graham Nash
Pearl Jam
Phish
Bonnie Raitt
Patti Smith
Taylor Swift
James Taylor
Eddie Vedder
Actor, Film, Television, Theater Friends Who Have Donated Auction Items
Samantha Bee
Geena Davis
Abigail Disney
Sally Field...
An all-star list of artists, musicians, actors, and activists are supporting the Wmc Benefit Auction by donating unique auction items, autographed instruments, fashion, scripts, art, rock and film memorabilia, and special experiences, like a week at a castle in Ireland, a heavenly week in Hawaii, and the Chairman’s Cabin at Sundance.
Musicians Who Have Donated Auction Items
Jackson Browne
Billie Eilish
Melissa Etheridge
Janita
Joan Jett
Blake Morgan
Graham Nash
Pearl Jam
Phish
Bonnie Raitt
Patti Smith
Taylor Swift
James Taylor
Eddie Vedder
Actor, Film, Television, Theater Friends Who Have Donated Auction Items
Samantha Bee
Geena Davis
Abigail Disney
Sally Field...
- 11/9/2020
- Look to the Stars
For four years, Josh Wakely has been prepping a television project that many writers would kill to work on. Now the TV and music-video vet has one of the industry’s foremost producers backing him.
Warren Littlefield has signed on to serve as executive producer for “Time out of Mind,” a gritty drama series that would reimagine characters from the songs of Bob Dylan. Wakely secured Dylan’s life and music rights for the project in early 2016, and has since been working with the music legend, also an executive producer, on mapping out the show. With scripts for the first three episodes finished, along with an outline of the first three seasons, Wakely and Littlefield are ready to take the package to market.
“I believe Bob Dylan’s the greatest chronicler of American history,” says Wakely. “And all those characters that he’s created, Maggie from ‘Maggie’s Farm,’ Joey Gallo,...
Warren Littlefield has signed on to serve as executive producer for “Time out of Mind,” a gritty drama series that would reimagine characters from the songs of Bob Dylan. Wakely secured Dylan’s life and music rights for the project in early 2016, and has since been working with the music legend, also an executive producer, on mapping out the show. With scripts for the first three episodes finished, along with an outline of the first three seasons, Wakely and Littlefield are ready to take the package to market.
“I believe Bob Dylan’s the greatest chronicler of American history,” says Wakely. “And all those characters that he’s created, Maggie from ‘Maggie’s Farm,’ Joey Gallo,...
- 3/19/2020
- by Daniel Holloway
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: The Spike Jonze documentary Beastie Boys Story has put a hold on its IMAX theatrical release which was originally set for April 3. A new theatrical date will be announced at a later date, but on the brighter side of things, the docu about the iconic music group will stream on Apple TV+ starting April 24.
“Our highest priority is the health of our audiences and employees, as well as their families and communities,” said an IMAX spokesperson in a statement given to Deadline. “Given the Covid-19 pandemic and resulting theatre closures nationwide, we have decided to postpone the theatrical release of ‘Beastie Boys Story’ to a later date, which will be announced as soon as possible. IMAX ticket holders can receive a full refund by contacting their local theatre. Beastie Boys Story, directed by Spike Jonze, will premiere on Apple TV+ on April 24.”
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“Our highest priority is the health of our audiences and employees, as well as their families and communities,” said an IMAX spokesperson in a statement given to Deadline. “Given the Covid-19 pandemic and resulting theatre closures nationwide, we have decided to postpone the theatrical release of ‘Beastie Boys Story’ to a later date, which will be announced as soon as possible. IMAX ticket holders can receive a full refund by contacting their local theatre. Beastie Boys Story, directed by Spike Jonze, will premiere on Apple TV+ on April 24.”
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- 3/17/2020
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
Go back in time with the Ad-Rock, Mike D and McA in the trailer for their new documentary film “Beastie Boys Story,” which is coming to Apple TV+ next month.
Spike Jonze directed the film, described as a live documentary experience, which mixes a stage show presentation from Beastie Boys members Mike Diamond (Mike D) and Adam Horovitz (Ad-Rock) talking about their personal journey forming the band with the late Adam Yauch (McA) and their 40 years of friendship.
“Now here’s a little story that I got to tell about three bad brothers that you know so well,” a young Mike D crudely raps in old home movie footage shown in the trailer. “It started way back in history with Ad-Rock, McA, and me, Mike D.”
Also Read: Uma Thurman to Star in Apple TV+ Thriller Series 'Suspicion'
The trailer gives the best idea of how Jonze blends the live experience,...
Spike Jonze directed the film, described as a live documentary experience, which mixes a stage show presentation from Beastie Boys members Mike Diamond (Mike D) and Adam Horovitz (Ad-Rock) talking about their personal journey forming the band with the late Adam Yauch (McA) and their 40 years of friendship.
“Now here’s a little story that I got to tell about three bad brothers that you know so well,” a young Mike D crudely raps in old home movie footage shown in the trailer. “It started way back in history with Ad-Rock, McA, and me, Mike D.”
Also Read: Uma Thurman to Star in Apple TV+ Thriller Series 'Suspicion'
The trailer gives the best idea of how Jonze blends the live experience,...
- 3/12/2020
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Universal Music Group (Umg) has promoted Brittney Ramsdell to senior vice president of film and TV synchronization for Republic Records, Def Jam Recordings, Island Records and Verve Label Group.
The Santa Monica-based executive reports to Umg executive vice president Michele Anthony and will oversee synch efforts across film, television, video games, commercials and all other visual media at each label.
Since arriving from Warner Bros. Records in 2014, Ramsdell served as vice president for film and TV synchs working on such projects as the “50 Shades of Grey” soundtrack and “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.” She’s also credited with key placements on “Insecure,” “Silicon Valley,” “9-1-1,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” and “Empire,” among other TV properties.
Said Anthony in announcing Ramsdell’s appointment: “Synch continues to be an essential, thriving part of our business that, when executed in close collaboration with our labels, can help an artist and a song breakthrough to audiences everywhere.
The Santa Monica-based executive reports to Umg executive vice president Michele Anthony and will oversee synch efforts across film, television, video games, commercials and all other visual media at each label.
Since arriving from Warner Bros. Records in 2014, Ramsdell served as vice president for film and TV synchs working on such projects as the “50 Shades of Grey” soundtrack and “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.” She’s also credited with key placements on “Insecure,” “Silicon Valley,” “9-1-1,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” and “Empire,” among other TV properties.
Said Anthony in announcing Ramsdell’s appointment: “Synch continues to be an essential, thriving part of our business that, when executed in close collaboration with our labels, can help an artist and a song breakthrough to audiences everywhere.
- 5/13/2019
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Polygram Entertainment has unveiled a quartet of music documentaries in development on the Bee Gees, the Go-Go’s, hip-hop jewelry and the origins of mixtapes, Variety has learned exclusively.
Polygram, which was revived in 2017 by Universal Music Group, rolled out details of the projects Saturday afternoon during a pre-Grammys showcase in downtown Los Angeles. Members of the Go-Go’s were in attendance along with Umg executives Michele Anthony and David Blackman and veteran film producer Frank Marshall, who’s handling the Bee Gees documentary.
Since 2017, Polygram has co-distributed Ron Howard’s “The Beatles: Eight Days a Week – The Touring Years” and developed several notable upcoming projects: a Luciano Pavarotti documentary directed by Howard, a Velvet Underground documentary directed by Todd Haynes and “Hitsville: The Making of Motown.”
The Bee Gees documentary feature is authorized by Barry Gibb and the families of his late brothers Maurice Gibb and Robin Gibb. The...
Polygram, which was revived in 2017 by Universal Music Group, rolled out details of the projects Saturday afternoon during a pre-Grammys showcase in downtown Los Angeles. Members of the Go-Go’s were in attendance along with Umg executives Michele Anthony and David Blackman and veteran film producer Frank Marshall, who’s handling the Bee Gees documentary.
Since 2017, Polygram has co-distributed Ron Howard’s “The Beatles: Eight Days a Week – The Touring Years” and developed several notable upcoming projects: a Luciano Pavarotti documentary directed by Howard, a Velvet Underground documentary directed by Todd Haynes and “Hitsville: The Making of Motown.”
The Bee Gees documentary feature is authorized by Barry Gibb and the families of his late brothers Maurice Gibb and Robin Gibb. The...
- 2/9/2019
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
Mass Appeal, the urban culture-focused media and entertainment company, and Universal Music Group today announced the companies have entered into a multi-year global agreement.
According to the announcement, the deal encompasses the exclusive distribution of physical and digital formats for recorded music and short-form video content — including Nas’ forthcoming Kanye West-produced album, which is out Friday — and provides Mass Appeal with the ability to strategically leverage Umg’s marketing and promotion teams across more than 60 territories for select artists and projects.
Umg will also distribute Mass Appeal’s extensive catalog of releases from artists who include DJ Shadow, J Dilla and Run the Jewels, as well as forthcoming projects including the 11th solo record from Nas (pictured above), which will be a collaboration between Mass Appeal and Nas’ longtime label, Umg’s Def Jam.
In announcing the partnership, Nas said, “I’ve been blessed to work with two of the best brands in music.
According to the announcement, the deal encompasses the exclusive distribution of physical and digital formats for recorded music and short-form video content — including Nas’ forthcoming Kanye West-produced album, which is out Friday — and provides Mass Appeal with the ability to strategically leverage Umg’s marketing and promotion teams across more than 60 territories for select artists and projects.
Umg will also distribute Mass Appeal’s extensive catalog of releases from artists who include DJ Shadow, J Dilla and Run the Jewels, as well as forthcoming projects including the 11th solo record from Nas (pictured above), which will be a collaboration between Mass Appeal and Nas’ longtime label, Umg’s Def Jam.
In announcing the partnership, Nas said, “I’ve been blessed to work with two of the best brands in music.
- 6/13/2018
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
If there’s one single event in the music industry year besides the Grammys that draws more top-flight executives than any other, it’s the United Jewish Appeal’s luncheon, which raises money for the organization and honors a different executive or executives with its Music Visionary of the Year accolade. This year, the honorees were Spotify’s Daniel Ek and Troy Carter — and, true to form, the spotlight-averse Ek stayed home in Stockholm while Carter held it down.
While this year’s event raised some $1.2 million for the organization, it was a bit more low-key than years past, particularly 2017, when Universal Evp Michele Anthony was toasted by Gloria Steinem and Sharon Osbourne and serenaded by Alessia Cara and Eddie Vedder and Stone Gossard of Pearl Jam.
But Carter had some high-profile friends in the building: Musical entertainment was provided by R&B singer H.E.R. and Grammy-nominee Leon Bridges, and NBA legend Julius “Dr.
While this year’s event raised some $1.2 million for the organization, it was a bit more low-key than years past, particularly 2017, when Universal Evp Michele Anthony was toasted by Gloria Steinem and Sharon Osbourne and serenaded by Alessia Cara and Eddie Vedder and Stone Gossard of Pearl Jam.
But Carter had some high-profile friends in the building: Musical entertainment was provided by R&B singer H.E.R. and Grammy-nominee Leon Bridges, and NBA legend Julius “Dr.
- 6/12/2018
- by Jem Aswad
- Variety Film + TV
Polygram Entertainment, the film and television division of Universal Music Group, today announced that Daniel Inkeles has been named Vice President, Scripted Film & Television.
According to the announcement, in this newly created role, Inkeles will help accelerate scripted feature film and television projects. He will be based at Umg’s headquarters in Santa Monica and will work closely with the company’s labels, Universal Music Publishing Group, as well as media companies, digital partners and film and television studios and production companies. He reports to David Blackman, Umg’s Head of Film & Television Development and Production.
Polygram Entertainment’s mission is to produce film and television programs that provide deeper narratives and perspectives on recording artists, music and cultural events, according to the announcement. It most recently co-distributed, with Studiocanal, the Ron Howard-directed “The Beatles: Eight Days a Week – The Touring Years.” It is also financing and in production...
According to the announcement, in this newly created role, Inkeles will help accelerate scripted feature film and television projects. He will be based at Umg’s headquarters in Santa Monica and will work closely with the company’s labels, Universal Music Publishing Group, as well as media companies, digital partners and film and television studios and production companies. He reports to David Blackman, Umg’s Head of Film & Television Development and Production.
Polygram Entertainment’s mission is to produce film and television programs that provide deeper narratives and perspectives on recording artists, music and cultural events, according to the announcement. It most recently co-distributed, with Studiocanal, the Ron Howard-directed “The Beatles: Eight Days a Week – The Touring Years.” It is also financing and in production...
- 6/5/2018
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Diversity avengers assemble! Grammys inclusion task force includes Common, Sheryl Crow and many more
Lately the Grammys have gotten a lot of flak for their treatment of women and people of color: in 2018 Lorde was denied an opportunity to perform solo during the telecast despite being an Album of the Year nominee, and though Bruno Mars (of Filipino and Puerto Rican descent) swept the top awards, black hip-hop artists were once again shut out in the general field. Making matters worse, recording academy president Neil Portnow told women to “step up” if they want recognition. So the Grammys announced a task force on diversity and inclusion to be led by Tina Tchen, the former chief of staff for First Lady Michelle Obama. And now that task force has just announced its other members.
Several recording artists will join Tchen in her effort to improve diversity in the academy and at the Grammys, including Common, Sheryl Crow, Cam, Andra Day and Jimmy Jam. The task force also includes Stephanie Alexa,...
Several recording artists will join Tchen in her effort to improve diversity in the academy and at the Grammys, including Common, Sheryl Crow, Cam, Andra Day and Jimmy Jam. The task force also includes Stephanie Alexa,...
- 5/9/2018
- by Daniel Montgomery
- Gold Derby
Tina Tchen, chair of the Recording Academy’s newly formed task force on diversity and inclusion, announced the names of the 16 members joining her in examining barriers and biases affecting women and other underrepresented voices in the music industry and, specifically, the Recording Academy, according to an announcement from the organization.
The members — which span several musical genres and include artists, label and publishing executives, managers, a television executive and television journalist, as well as the founder of the USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative, which was cited in studies of diversity in the music industry — comprise 13 women and three men.
The announcement comes in the wake of a torrent of criticism after January’s Grammy Awards due to the low representation of female artists in the show and for Academy chief Neil Portnow’s unfortunately-worded post-show comments to a Variety reporter that female artists and executives need to “step up” in...
The members — which span several musical genres and include artists, label and publishing executives, managers, a television executive and television journalist, as well as the founder of the USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative, which was cited in studies of diversity in the music industry — comprise 13 women and three men.
The announcement comes in the wake of a torrent of criticism after January’s Grammy Awards due to the low representation of female artists in the show and for Academy chief Neil Portnow’s unfortunately-worded post-show comments to a Variety reporter that female artists and executives need to “step up” in...
- 5/9/2018
- by Jem Aswad
- Variety Film + TV
La company launches Motown documentary with Berry Gordy.
Universal Music Group (Umg) is relaunching the Polygram Entertainment label as it looks to accelerate Umg’s film and television output.
Polygram will develop and produce feature films and television, including scripted and unscripted productions as well as financing premium documentaries.
The revived label will be based in Santa Monica and led by David Blackman, Umg’s head of film & television development and production.
Blackman reports to Umg executive vice president Michele Anthony and Universal Music Publishing Group chairman and CEO Jody Gerson.
Polygram’s inaugural production will be The Story of Motown, a documentary about the history and cultural impact of the iconic record label with the participation of Motown founder Berry Gordy.
The film, which will feature footage and recordings from Gordy’s personal archive, focuses on the period between Motown’s birth in Detroit in 1958 until its 1972 relocation to Los Angeles.
Polygram, Motown...
Universal Music Group (Umg) is relaunching the Polygram Entertainment label as it looks to accelerate Umg’s film and television output.
Polygram will develop and produce feature films and television, including scripted and unscripted productions as well as financing premium documentaries.
The revived label will be based in Santa Monica and led by David Blackman, Umg’s head of film & television development and production.
Blackman reports to Umg executive vice president Michele Anthony and Universal Music Publishing Group chairman and CEO Jody Gerson.
Polygram’s inaugural production will be The Story of Motown, a documentary about the history and cultural impact of the iconic record label with the participation of Motown founder Berry Gordy.
The film, which will feature footage and recordings from Gordy’s personal archive, focuses on the period between Motown’s birth in Detroit in 1958 until its 1972 relocation to Los Angeles.
Polygram, Motown...
- 2/12/2017
- by andreas.wiseman@screendaily.com (Andreas Wiseman)
- ScreenDaily
La company launches Motown documentary with Berry Gordy.
Universal Music Group (Umg) is re-launching the Polygram Entertainment label as it looks to accelerate Umg’s film and television output.
Polygram will develop and produce feature films and television, including scripted and unscripted productions as well as financing premium documentaries.
The revived label will be based in Santa Monica and led by David Blackman, Umg’s head of film & television development and production.
Blackman reports to Umg executive vice president Michele Anthony and Universal Music Publishing Group chairman and CEO Jody Gerson.
Polygram’s inaugural production will be The Story of Motown, a documentary about the history and cultural impact of the iconic record label with the participation of Motown founder Berry Gordy.
The film, which will feature footage and recordings from Gordy’s personal archive, focuses on the period between Motown’s birth in Detroit in 1958 until its 1972 relocation to Los Angeles.
Polygram, Motown...
Universal Music Group (Umg) is re-launching the Polygram Entertainment label as it looks to accelerate Umg’s film and television output.
Polygram will develop and produce feature films and television, including scripted and unscripted productions as well as financing premium documentaries.
The revived label will be based in Santa Monica and led by David Blackman, Umg’s head of film & television development and production.
Blackman reports to Umg executive vice president Michele Anthony and Universal Music Publishing Group chairman and CEO Jody Gerson.
Polygram’s inaugural production will be The Story of Motown, a documentary about the history and cultural impact of the iconic record label with the participation of Motown founder Berry Gordy.
The film, which will feature footage and recordings from Gordy’s personal archive, focuses on the period between Motown’s birth in Detroit in 1958 until its 1972 relocation to Los Angeles.
Polygram, Motown...
- 2/12/2017
- by andreas.wiseman@screendaily.com (Andreas Wiseman)
- ScreenDaily
Universal Music Group Umg, the world's leading music company, named renowned producers David Blackman and Scott Landis to lead its development and production of film, television and theatrical projects. Their appointments are effective immediately, and both report jointly to Umg Executive Vice President Michele Anthony and Universal Music Publishing Group Chairman and CEO Jody Gerson, reflecting the unique and important role that publishing and recorded music play in creating film, television and theatrical properties.
- 1/7/2016
- by BWW News Desk
- BroadwayWorld.com
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