Donald Trump is clearly many things, but one thing he’s not is a great orator, according to one of Britain’s great acting knights of the realm, Ian McKellen.
The stage and screen veteran, best known overseas for his role of Gandalf in Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings trilogy, told The Times of London that he found the presidential hopeful “an absolute bewilderment.” McKellen told the paper:
“I haven’t seen him live. But he’s one of the worst public speakers there has ever been. Whether he’s reading a script or not, it’s so patent what he is.”
85-year-old McKellen, currently playing Falstaff on stage in the UK, said great powers of oratory may be thing of the past:
“I remember leaving my school [in Bolton] in the sixth form and cycling down to the town square to see [1950s Welsh Labour Party politician] Aneurin Bevan on the hustings without a microphone.
The stage and screen veteran, best known overseas for his role of Gandalf in Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings trilogy, told The Times of London that he found the presidential hopeful “an absolute bewilderment.” McKellen told the paper:
“I haven’t seen him live. But he’s one of the worst public speakers there has ever been. Whether he’s reading a script or not, it’s so patent what he is.”
85-year-old McKellen, currently playing Falstaff on stage in the UK, said great powers of oratory may be thing of the past:
“I remember leaving my school [in Bolton] in the sixth form and cycling down to the town square to see [1950s Welsh Labour Party politician] Aneurin Bevan on the hustings without a microphone.
- 6/8/2024
- by Caroline Frost
- Deadline Film + TV
Actor Evangeline Lilly has announced that she is stepping away from Hollywood for the foreseeable future. However, she has also mentioned being open to returning one day, contingent on how her current plans align with her future aspirations. Lilly gained prominence as Kate Austen on ABC’s drama series Lost and has also been featured in notable films like The Hurt Locker, Ant-Man, and The Hobbit trilogy directed by Peter Jackson. Aside from her acting career, the Canadian actor has delved into writing with her children’s book series The Squickerwonkers. Lilly recently shared an older video on Instagram from 2006 in...
- 6/8/2024
- by Steve Delikson
- TVovermind.com
Tom Bombadil, the enigmatic character from The Lord of the Rings saga, is finally stepping into the limelight. Known for his ethereal presence, nonsense songs, and brightly colored clothes, Bombadil has often puzzled fans due to his absence in both Ralph Bakshi’s 1978 animated film and Peter Jackson’s Oscar-winning trilogy. However, this unexpected twist is about to change as the Amazon Prime Video series ‘The Rings of Power’ will introduce him in its second season. A Character Cut From Previous Films Appears Rings of Power showrunners J.D. Payne and Patrick McKay shared their insights on why Tom Bombadil has been...
- 6/7/2024
- by Steve Delikson
- TVovermind.com
What’s Sam Mendes have in store next for audiences after 2022’s “Empire Of Light“? Well, World Of Reel reports (via The InSneider) that it may be not one movie, but four: biopics on each member of arguably the greatest pop-rock group ever, The Beatles. Yup, that’s a movie each for John, Paul, George, and Ringo. In other words, eat your heart of Peter Jackson: “The Beatles: Get Back” may no longer be the apex of Beatles visual projects any longer.
Continue reading Sam Mendes Casts Harris Dickinson, Paul Mescal, Barry Keoghan & Charlie Rowe As The Fab Four In His Beatles Films [Report] at The Playlist.
Continue reading Sam Mendes Casts Harris Dickinson, Paul Mescal, Barry Keoghan & Charlie Rowe As The Fab Four In His Beatles Films [Report] at The Playlist.
- 6/7/2024
- by Ned Booth
- The Playlist
9 Easter Eggs and Callbacks to Look Out for in 'Rings of Power' - Main Image
The Rings of Power Season 2 teaser has left fans buzzing with excitement. So, now is the best time to rewatch season 1 and catch a few Easter eggs! Despite the complexity of the storylines in season 1, the production team has meticulously crafted every detail.
These references, while often subtle, enrich the experience for observant fans. So, here are a few Easter eggs and callbacks you may have missed in the first season.
Gandalf Callback in The Rings of Power
The finale was packed with groundbreaking moments and delightful Easter eggs. One standout moment seemingly confirms the identity of the Stranger. Fans had speculated about his true nature since his fiery meteor arrival, wondering if he was Gandalf the Grey. What solidifies this theory is what he advises Nori, “when in doubt, Elanor Brandyfoot, always follow your nose.
The Rings of Power Season 2 teaser has left fans buzzing with excitement. So, now is the best time to rewatch season 1 and catch a few Easter eggs! Despite the complexity of the storylines in season 1, the production team has meticulously crafted every detail.
These references, while often subtle, enrich the experience for observant fans. So, here are a few Easter eggs and callbacks you may have missed in the first season.
Gandalf Callback in The Rings of Power
The finale was packed with groundbreaking moments and delightful Easter eggs. One standout moment seemingly confirms the identity of the Stranger. Fans had speculated about his true nature since his fiery meteor arrival, wondering if he was Gandalf the Grey. What solidifies this theory is what he advises Nori, “when in doubt, Elanor Brandyfoot, always follow your nose.
- 6/6/2024
- EpicStream
Only the learned can perceive the merit, goes the saying. Among the vast pool of talent in Hollywood, only a few have managed to bring across a resounding impact not only in terms of the box office but also by catapulting into everyday pop culture. The latest entrant to that hallowed fame is the cinematic genius and the 21st-century Dune adaptation’s director, Denis Villeneuve, whose worth has found immense praise from fellow film pioneer, Steven Spielberg.
Denis Villeneuve speaking at the 2017 San Diego Comic-Con International, for Blade Runner 2049 | Gage Skidmore for Wikimedia Commons
In an interactive session, the Jurassic Park director opened his heart out for his Sicario visionary. The duo, whose contributions to modern cinema stay immeasurable, may not seek to compete with one another. However, the latter’s vision has caught the attention of the legendary filmmaker, who felt stunned and in awe of the incredible work...
Denis Villeneuve speaking at the 2017 San Diego Comic-Con International, for Blade Runner 2049 | Gage Skidmore for Wikimedia Commons
In an interactive session, the Jurassic Park director opened his heart out for his Sicario visionary. The duo, whose contributions to modern cinema stay immeasurable, may not seek to compete with one another. However, the latter’s vision has caught the attention of the legendary filmmaker, who felt stunned and in awe of the incredible work...
- 6/5/2024
- by Imteshal Karim
- FandomWire
A silent heroine, Canadian actress and author Evangeline Lilly managed to become popular despite never becoming part of the mainstream establishment. She made a name for herself in the series Lost and would later go on to achieve global fame by portraying Hope van Dyne in several MCU projects. Her performances have been praised on a regular basis, and her specific talent usually contributed to the quality of a project in a major way. Alongside the ones mentioned, she has also had memorable appearances in The Hurt Locker (2008), the sports drama Real Steel (2011), and in Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit series, appearing in The Desolation of Smaug (2013) and The Battle of the Five Armies (2014) as Tauriel.
But, while a lot of fans have been looking forward to her new projects, we have some disappointing news for them, as the actress has announced her retirement from acting on her Instagram profile.
But, while a lot of fans have been looking forward to her new projects, we have some disappointing news for them, as the actress has announced her retirement from acting on her Instagram profile.
- 6/5/2024
- by Arthur S. Poe
- Fiction Horizon
Best known for her work as Kate Austen on Lost, Evangeline Lilly seemed poised to become the next big thing in the early 2000s.
But now, it looks as though she's ready to leave Hollywood behind for good.
Lilly took to Instagram earlier this week to announce that she's decided to retire from acting.
“Ten years from now, where would I like to be? I am terrified to admit this to the rest of the acting world, but ideally, 10 years from now, I’d like to be a retired actress and have a family,” Lilly said in a throwback video posted on Wednesday.
“I’d like to be writing and influencing people’s lives in humanitarian ways.”
Related: Misunderstood Women: TV Characters Who Faced Unjust Criticism
“I am so filled with joy and contentment today as I live out my vision. Praise God, I feel so grateful for my blessings,...
But now, it looks as though she's ready to leave Hollywood behind for good.
Lilly took to Instagram earlier this week to announce that she's decided to retire from acting.
“Ten years from now, where would I like to be? I am terrified to admit this to the rest of the acting world, but ideally, 10 years from now, I’d like to be a retired actress and have a family,” Lilly said in a throwback video posted on Wednesday.
“I’d like to be writing and influencing people’s lives in humanitarian ways.”
Related: Misunderstood Women: TV Characters Who Faced Unjust Criticism
“I am so filled with joy and contentment today as I live out my vision. Praise God, I feel so grateful for my blessings,...
- 6/5/2024
- by Tyler Johnson
- TVfanatic
Evangeline Lilly is an actress known around the world for portraying roles in iconic films like Ant-Man, Real Steel, and, The Hobbit Trilogy. Being an amazing actress, Lilly reprised her role of Janet Van Dyne in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania.
Evangeline Lilly and Paul Rudd in the MCU | Marvel Studios
However, starring in the 2023 MCU film came at a personal cost to the actress. Earning fame and love worldwide with her roles, Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania became a complete disaster and as per the recent reports, Lilly has decided to retire from acting!
Evangeline Lilly Is Allegedly Retiring From Acting!
The Lost actress has quite an iconic filmography to her name. Portraying the role of Tauriel in Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit trilogy, Lilly received worldwide fame and acclaim for her role. Lilly became a part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe when she portrayed the role of Janet...
Evangeline Lilly and Paul Rudd in the MCU | Marvel Studios
However, starring in the 2023 MCU film came at a personal cost to the actress. Earning fame and love worldwide with her roles, Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania became a complete disaster and as per the recent reports, Lilly has decided to retire from acting!
Evangeline Lilly Is Allegedly Retiring From Acting!
The Lost actress has quite an iconic filmography to her name. Portraying the role of Tauriel in Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit trilogy, Lilly received worldwide fame and acclaim for her role. Lilly became a part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe when she portrayed the role of Janet...
- 6/4/2024
- by Visarg Acharya
- FandomWire
Evangeline Lilly announced on Instagram that she has stepped away from Hollywood for the foreseeable future and “might return one day.” Lilly, best known for playing Kate Austen in ABC’s drama series “Lost,” re-shared a video recorded in 2006 in which she expressed her desire to be a “retired actress” by the next decade.
“Ten years from now, where would I like to be? I am terrified to admit this to the rest of the acting world but ideally 10 years from now I’d like to be a retired actress and have a family,” Lilly said in the video. “I’d like to be writing and influencing people’s lives in humanitarian ways.”
In her caption to the video posted June 3, 2024, Lily writes: “I am so filled with joy and contentment today as I live out my vision. Praise God, I feel so grateful for my blessings. Stepping away from...
“Ten years from now, where would I like to be? I am terrified to admit this to the rest of the acting world but ideally 10 years from now I’d like to be a retired actress and have a family,” Lilly said in the video. “I’d like to be writing and influencing people’s lives in humanitarian ways.”
In her caption to the video posted June 3, 2024, Lily writes: “I am so filled with joy and contentment today as I live out my vision. Praise God, I feel so grateful for my blessings. Stepping away from...
- 6/4/2024
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
Warner Bros. has announced new movies in the Lord of the Rings universe. The anime The War of the Rohirrim will be released later this year, and the main course is being prepared for 2026: the movie The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum.
Andy Serkis will return to the role of Gollum, Peter Jackson will produce, and Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens, who worked on both The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies, are among the screenwriters.
Does that sound like the biggest announcement of the year? No, it sounds like the biggest disappointment for fans of Tolkien and the original trilogy.
Who Asked For a Standalone Gollum Story on Big Screen?
It's not hard to understand why the new movie is built around Gollum – from a production standpoint. Gollum is the only central character in Lotr who hasn't aged in 20 years. Serkis can still play him,...
Andy Serkis will return to the role of Gollum, Peter Jackson will produce, and Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens, who worked on both The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies, are among the screenwriters.
Does that sound like the biggest announcement of the year? No, it sounds like the biggest disappointment for fans of Tolkien and the original trilogy.
Who Asked For a Standalone Gollum Story on Big Screen?
It's not hard to understand why the new movie is built around Gollum – from a production standpoint. Gollum is the only central character in Lotr who hasn't aged in 20 years. Serkis can still play him,...
- 6/3/2024
- by zoe-wallace@startefacts.com (Zoe Wallace)
- STartefacts.com
Most of Wild Wild West plays exactly in the way you would expect, as a uglier, less charismatic version of Men in Black. Sure, Will Smith still has his ineffable cool and Kevin Kline’s always lovable, even when playing a motor-mouthed and egotistical inventor. But the two just don’t click like Smith did with Tommy Lee Jones, and Barry Sonnenfeld’s direction feels forced and mechanical instead of electric. So when Smith’s secret agent Jim West and Kline’s U.S. Marshal Artemus Gordon find the secret lab of mad scientist Arliss Loveless (Kenneth Branagh), the audience feels just as unimpressed as the characters. As the exhausted duo mocks Loveless’s offerings, they ask “What has he got?” listing off his failures. The same question could be posed to Wild Wild West, with its garish set-pieces and flat humor.
But then, with a rumbling of rocks and a turning of gears,...
But then, with a rumbling of rocks and a turning of gears,...
- 6/3/2024
- by Joe George
- Den of Geek
Viggo Mortensen had a career-defining role when he portrayed Aragorn in Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy. With the movies based on J. R. R. Tolkien’s successful novels, The Lord of the Rings joined in its successes. Combining all Box Office earnings from all three movies, The Lord of the Rings trilogy grossed a whopping $2.988 billion after its theatrical run. As one of its central characters, Viggo Mortensen became one of Hollywood’s most successful actors and recognizable faces in film’s fantasy genre. However, since the trilogy ended over two decades ago, Mortensen’s career seems to have dwindled.
- 6/1/2024
- by Onyinye Izundu
- TVovermind.com
Mark Wahlberg is a Dorchester, Massachusetts native who has brought to life, in the past two decades, a wide variety of characters that have gone far beyond fighting CG robots in the “Transformers” movies.
Wahlberg got his start as a rapper, as the frontman for the group Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch, but it was his good looks rather than musical ability that brought him notoriety as the premier Calvin Klein underwear model in the 1990s. From there it was a quick jump to movies, with the young actor getting his big break as the lead in Paul Thomas Anderson‘s “Boogie Nights” in 1997.
Since then Wahlberg has been working steadily with such A-list directors as Martin Scorsese, Peter Jackson (“The Lovely Bones”), Tim Burton (“Planet of the Apes”), Ridley Scott (“All the Money in the World”) and David O. Russell.
Take a tour in our photo gallery of Wahlberg’s 12 greatest film performances,...
Wahlberg got his start as a rapper, as the frontman for the group Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch, but it was his good looks rather than musical ability that brought him notoriety as the premier Calvin Klein underwear model in the 1990s. From there it was a quick jump to movies, with the young actor getting his big break as the lead in Paul Thomas Anderson‘s “Boogie Nights” in 1997.
Since then Wahlberg has been working steadily with such A-list directors as Martin Scorsese, Peter Jackson (“The Lovely Bones”), Tim Burton (“Planet of the Apes”), Ridley Scott (“All the Money in the World”) and David O. Russell.
Take a tour in our photo gallery of Wahlberg’s 12 greatest film performances,...
- 5/31/2024
- by Tom O'Brien, Misty Holland and Chris Beachum
- Gold Derby
As a child of the 1980s, I thought I knew pretty much everything I needed to know about Wham!, just as I thought I had a pretty good handle on the behind the scenes of the late-night all-star recording of “We Are the World.” But maybe that’s why I enjoyed the docs “Wham!” and “The Greatest Night in Pop” so much — a mix of the familiar with those moments of surprise.
In the case of “Wham!,” it’s how Andrew Ridgeley managed to be so gracious as his buddy George Michael went on to a massively successful solo career. In “The Greatest Night in Pop,” I learned just how instrumental Lionel Richie was in serving as traffic cop for producer Quincy Jones in creating “We Are The World” with dozens of A-list musicians over just one late night. The doc is filled with legend-help-legend moments, like when Stevie Wonder...
In the case of “Wham!,” it’s how Andrew Ridgeley managed to be so gracious as his buddy George Michael went on to a massively successful solo career. In “The Greatest Night in Pop,” I learned just how instrumental Lionel Richie was in serving as traffic cop for producer Quincy Jones in creating “We Are The World” with dozens of A-list musicians over just one late night. The doc is filled with legend-help-legend moments, like when Stevie Wonder...
- 5/31/2024
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
One of the most mysterious characters in the whole Tolkien universe, Tom Bombadil, will appear in the second season of The Rings of Power. Bombadil will be played by actor Rory Kinnear, who previously starred in the films The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare and Men.
A more detailed explanation of Tom Bombadil's story has always been at the top of the wish list of anyone who was not satisfied with the movie trilogy about Frodo and the Ring.
This will not be the character's first appearance on screen, but the first in an official adaptation. In Peter Jackson's films, episodes involving him were cut because they were unimportant to the plot.
Tom Is the Most Mysterious Entity in the Whole Story
Bombadil is one of Middle-earth's most mysterious inhabitants. He is the only character immune to the power of the Ring. When he wears it, Tom does not become invisible and is not tempted.
A more detailed explanation of Tom Bombadil's story has always been at the top of the wish list of anyone who was not satisfied with the movie trilogy about Frodo and the Ring.
This will not be the character's first appearance on screen, but the first in an official adaptation. In Peter Jackson's films, episodes involving him were cut because they were unimportant to the plot.
Tom Is the Most Mysterious Entity in the Whole Story
Bombadil is one of Middle-earth's most mysterious inhabitants. He is the only character immune to the power of the Ring. When he wears it, Tom does not become invisible and is not tempted.
- 5/31/2024
- by zoe-wallace@startefacts.com (Zoe Wallace)
- STartefacts.com
Not that long ago, we confirmed that Peter Jackson was indeed coming back to The Lord of the Rings franchise, but as a producer, and that a new movie had been confirmed for a 2026 release. The movie was soon revealed to be The Hunt for Gollum, and we also received confirmation that Andy Serkis would be coming back to the role that made him famous, but that he would also be directing the movie as well. This is all part of a larger plan to revitalize The Lord of the Rings cinematic franchise and expand upon the original movies directed by Jackson.
So, a return to Middle-earth is imminent and we cannot wait for the movie to come out, but since we still have a long way to go, we don’t have too much information at this point. But, while nothing has been confirmed, one actor from Jackson’s...
So, a return to Middle-earth is imminent and we cannot wait for the movie to come out, but since we still have a long way to go, we don’t have too much information at this point. But, while nothing has been confirmed, one actor from Jackson’s...
- 5/30/2024
- by Arthur S. Poe
- Fiction Horizon
The story of The Lord of the Rings is not over yet. Warner Bros. will be coming out with a new bunch of live-action films centered on Gollum. The working title of the first film is The Hunt for Gollum and it will see Andy Serkis returning to reprise his role as the titular character. As updates keep coming for the film, Viggo Mortensen revealed that he would consider returning to his character on a few conditions.
Gollum in The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003) | New Line Cinema
Viggo Mortensen played the role of Aragorn in Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy and was one of the fan-favorite characters in both the books and films. Fans fell in love with his portrayal of Aragorn for a number of reasons and would love to see him return to the role. As for Viggo Mortensen,...
Gollum in The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003) | New Line Cinema
Viggo Mortensen played the role of Aragorn in Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy and was one of the fan-favorite characters in both the books and films. Fans fell in love with his portrayal of Aragorn for a number of reasons and would love to see him return to the role. As for Viggo Mortensen,...
- 5/30/2024
- by Mishkaat Khan
- FandomWire
This Star Trek: Discovery review contains spoilers.
It’s the end of an era. Or at least, the end of a beginning of one. We’ve now all seen the final episode of Star Trek: Discovery, and no matter how you may feel about that fact, its conclusion still marks an important moment within the larger Star Trek universe.
The show wasn’t always easy to like. It struggled to find and maintain a coherent identity and for every step it took forward creatively, it often felt as though it took another (or two) back. It didn’t always find enough stories for its sprawling cast of characters. Its hyper-focus on Michael Burnham, once a mutineer now a Starfleet captain, and its trademark emotional feel—and love of talking through problems—made for a very different sort of Star Trek show, one that only occasionally managed to capture the adventurous,...
It’s the end of an era. Or at least, the end of a beginning of one. We’ve now all seen the final episode of Star Trek: Discovery, and no matter how you may feel about that fact, its conclusion still marks an important moment within the larger Star Trek universe.
The show wasn’t always easy to like. It struggled to find and maintain a coherent identity and for every step it took forward creatively, it often felt as though it took another (or two) back. It didn’t always find enough stories for its sprawling cast of characters. Its hyper-focus on Michael Burnham, once a mutineer now a Starfleet captain, and its trademark emotional feel—and love of talking through problems—made for a very different sort of Star Trek show, one that only occasionally managed to capture the adventurous,...
- 5/30/2024
- by Lacy Baugher
- Den of Geek
We know that Aragorn does not fear death, but does Viggo Mortensen fear returning to the role? Not one bit. With the announcement that another Lord of the Rings movie – in the form of The Hunt for Gollum – will be making that long trek to theaters, it’s hard not to wonder which of the original cast (other than Andy Serkis) will be returning for the film. With so little truly known about the film, there’s no reason not to imagine which of our fan favorite characters could have a spot. And if Viggo Mortensen has a say, he and Aragorn will wield Andúril yet again.
Speaking with British GQ, Viggo Mortensen admitted that he doesn’t know what’s planned for The Hunt for Gollum but is willing to return as Aragorn if it serves a purpose. “I don’t know exactly what the story is, I haven’t heard.
Speaking with British GQ, Viggo Mortensen admitted that he doesn’t know what’s planned for The Hunt for Gollum but is willing to return as Aragorn if it serves a purpose. “I don’t know exactly what the story is, I haven’t heard.
- 5/30/2024
- by Mathew Plale
- JoBlo.com
After being excluded from both the classic 1978 animated movie and Peter Jackson's critically acclaimed trilogy, The Lord of the Rings will finally put the spotlight on Tom Bombadil in live-action when The Rings of Power returns for season 2 on August 29.
He first appeared in J. R. R. Tolkien's The Fellowship of the Ring, helping save Merry and Pippin from Old Man Willow, an angry tree in the Old Forest, that swallows them. In this series, we'll meet a younger version of "Old Tom" who has left Withywindle behind to make a second home in the ravaged Rhûn.
"There’s a reason why he hasn’t been in prior adaptations, because in some ways he’s sort of an anti-dramatic character," showrunner J.D. Payne tells Vanity Fair (via SFFGazette.com). "He’s not a character who has a particularly strong agenda. He observes drama, but largely doesn’t participate in it.
He first appeared in J. R. R. Tolkien's The Fellowship of the Ring, helping save Merry and Pippin from Old Man Willow, an angry tree in the Old Forest, that swallows them. In this series, we'll meet a younger version of "Old Tom" who has left Withywindle behind to make a second home in the ravaged Rhûn.
"There’s a reason why he hasn’t been in prior adaptations, because in some ways he’s sort of an anti-dramatic character," showrunner J.D. Payne tells Vanity Fair (via SFFGazette.com). "He’s not a character who has a particularly strong agenda. He observes drama, but largely doesn’t participate in it.
- 5/30/2024
- ComicBookMovie.com
A killer spider terrorises a New York apartment building in a tonally messy horror with some great creature effects. Our review of Sting:
Odd name for a killer spider movie, Sting. For that we can thank Tolkien-loving 12 year-old Charlotte (Alyla Browne) who chooses it as the nickname for the arachnid she finds scuttling around her dimly-lit New York apartment building. Sweeping the critter into a jar and intent on keeping it as a pet, Charlotte is blissfully unaware that Sting is capable of escaping from its glass prison and, as it dines on other living things roaming around the building, will soon grow to a frightening size.
Written and directed by Australian filmmaker Kiah Roache-Turner, Sting is an eclectic mash-up of styles and influences. Its snowbound apartment setting, every floor filled with eccentrics, immediately recalls Jean-Pierre Jeunet and Marc Caro’s Delicatessen. Roache-Turner seems to relish in the little...
Odd name for a killer spider movie, Sting. For that we can thank Tolkien-loving 12 year-old Charlotte (Alyla Browne) who chooses it as the nickname for the arachnid she finds scuttling around her dimly-lit New York apartment building. Sweeping the critter into a jar and intent on keeping it as a pet, Charlotte is blissfully unaware that Sting is capable of escaping from its glass prison and, as it dines on other living things roaming around the building, will soon grow to a frightening size.
Written and directed by Australian filmmaker Kiah Roache-Turner, Sting is an eclectic mash-up of styles and influences. Its snowbound apartment setting, every floor filled with eccentrics, immediately recalls Jean-Pierre Jeunet and Marc Caro’s Delicatessen. Roache-Turner seems to relish in the little...
- 5/30/2024
- by Ryan Lambie
- Film Stories
Viggo Mortensen needed just the right sword. Then he realized he had the perfect one at home.
Mortensen’s latest film is The Dead Don’t Hurt, a Western set in the 1860s that follows free-spirited Vivienne (Vicky Krieps), a Franco-Canadian who falls in love with Holger (Mortensen), a Danish rancher. When Holger goes off to fight in the American Civil War, Vivienne is left alone to fight in her own war at home.
Mortensen spoke to British GQ to discuss his new film. It was mentioned that in one fantasy sequence, you can see what looks like his sword, Andúril, from Lord of the Rings.
“We had everything for this sequence with a knight. We had found this great, spirited horse, the right kind of saddle, and we made a medieval kind of blanket, and we had the costume for the knight,” Mortensen said. “Everything was right, and then I said,...
Mortensen’s latest film is The Dead Don’t Hurt, a Western set in the 1860s that follows free-spirited Vivienne (Vicky Krieps), a Franco-Canadian who falls in love with Holger (Mortensen), a Danish rancher. When Holger goes off to fight in the American Civil War, Vivienne is left alone to fight in her own war at home.
Mortensen spoke to British GQ to discuss his new film. It was mentioned that in one fantasy sequence, you can see what looks like his sword, Andúril, from Lord of the Rings.
“We had everything for this sequence with a knight. We had found this great, spirited horse, the right kind of saddle, and we made a medieval kind of blanket, and we had the costume for the knight,” Mortensen said. “Everything was right, and then I said,...
- 5/30/2024
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
Viggo Mortensen revealed in an interview with GQ UK magazine that he used Aragorn’s iconic sword Andúril from “Lord of the Rings” in his latest movie, “The Dead Don’t Hurt.” Mortensen wrote and directed the 19th century Western, in which he stars as a Danish immigrant separated from his love (Vicky Krieps) during the Civil War.
For one fantasy sequence in the film, Mortensen asked his “Lord of the Rings” director Peter Jackson if he had his permission to use Aragorn’s sword again on screen. Mortensen played the character in Jackson’s original “Rings” trilogy and kept the sword after production wrapped.
“We had everything for this sequence with a knight. We had found this great, spirited horse, the right kind of saddle, and we made a medieval kind of blanket, and we had the costume for the knight,” Mortensen explained. “Everything was right, and then I said,...
For one fantasy sequence in the film, Mortensen asked his “Lord of the Rings” director Peter Jackson if he had his permission to use Aragorn’s sword again on screen. Mortensen played the character in Jackson’s original “Rings” trilogy and kept the sword after production wrapped.
“We had everything for this sequence with a knight. We had found this great, spirited horse, the right kind of saddle, and we made a medieval kind of blanket, and we had the costume for the knight,” Mortensen explained. “Everything was right, and then I said,...
- 5/30/2024
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
A renowned Lord of the Rings character who didn’t see the light of day in the Peter Jackson movies is finally making his grand debut in season 2 of Prime Video’s The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, and that’s Tom Bombadil, who’ll be played by already announced Rory Kinnear. Scroll down to see more photos of the Bombadil from season 2.
At the time of Kinnear’s announcement, it wasn’t revealed exactly which character he’d be playing in a recurring role.
In the J.R.R. Tolkien tome, Bombadil saves Frodo and the other hobbits from myriad perils. In season 2, Bombadil encounters the Stranger (Daniel Weyman) and his Harfoot friends Nori (Markella Kavenagh) and Poppy (Megan Richards) on their journey to eastern Middle-earth.
The news about Bombadil was unveiled by Vanity Fair in a conversation with Rings of Power showrunners J.D. Payne and Patrick McKay.
At the time of Kinnear’s announcement, it wasn’t revealed exactly which character he’d be playing in a recurring role.
In the J.R.R. Tolkien tome, Bombadil saves Frodo and the other hobbits from myriad perils. In season 2, Bombadil encounters the Stranger (Daniel Weyman) and his Harfoot friends Nori (Markella Kavenagh) and Poppy (Megan Richards) on their journey to eastern Middle-earth.
The news about Bombadil was unveiled by Vanity Fair in a conversation with Rings of Power showrunners J.D. Payne and Patrick McKay.
- 5/29/2024
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Sauron’s rise in Season 2 of “Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power” will begin August 29 when the new installment of Amazon Prime Video’s fantasy series based on J.R.R. Tolkien IP arrives on the streamer. Prime Video released a teaser trailer and behind-the-scenes featurette Monday. Based on parts of Tolkien’s posthumous “The Silmarillion,” the series has a planned arc of five seasons.
What is ‘Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power” Season 2 about?
The drama series takes place thousands of years before the events of J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings” books with an ensemble cast of familiar faces mixed with new characters. Set in the not-for-long peaceful Second Age of Middle Earth, the show marks a first-time venture into the adaptation of Tolkein’s history of the fabled period. Villain Sauron (Charlie Vickers) will be “out and about...
What is ‘Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power” Season 2 about?
The drama series takes place thousands of years before the events of J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings” books with an ensemble cast of familiar faces mixed with new characters. Set in the not-for-long peaceful Second Age of Middle Earth, the show marks a first-time venture into the adaptation of Tolkein’s history of the fabled period. Villain Sauron (Charlie Vickers) will be “out and about...
- 5/29/2024
- by Dessi Gomez
- Deadline Film + TV
Tom Bombadil finally gets to dance in the sun.
The beloved Lord of the Rings character will make its live-action debut in Season 2 of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, TVLine has learned.
More from TVLineTVLine Items: Young Sherlock Series Ordered, Night Manager Adds Daisy Jones Actress and MoreTVLine Items: Cristin Milioti Joins Hulu's Hit-Monkey, Death by Lighting Adds Bradley Whitford and MoreThe Last of Us: Jeffrey Wright to Reprise His Video-Game Role in Season 2
Penny Dreadful and The Diplomat vet Rory Kinnear is set for the role in the coming season, premiering Thursday, Aug.
The beloved Lord of the Rings character will make its live-action debut in Season 2 of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, TVLine has learned.
More from TVLineTVLine Items: Young Sherlock Series Ordered, Night Manager Adds Daisy Jones Actress and MoreTVLine Items: Cristin Milioti Joins Hulu's Hit-Monkey, Death by Lighting Adds Bradley Whitford and MoreThe Last of Us: Jeffrey Wright to Reprise His Video-Game Role in Season 2
Penny Dreadful and The Diplomat vet Rory Kinnear is set for the role in the coming season, premiering Thursday, Aug.
- 5/29/2024
- by Keisha Hatchett
- TVLine.com
Big news just dropped over at Vanity Fair: a first look at a character set to appear in The Rings of Power season 2 who has to date only made it into a few older radio versions, games, and foreign-language adaptations of The Lord of the Rings—Tom Bombadil, played by Rory Kinnear. Tom’s first live-action appearance is obviously a huge deal for The Rings of Power season 2 and Lord of the Rings fandom as a whole, especially because Peter Jackson chose to not include the beloved Tolkien character in his film trilogy, but how will he fit into the story of the Second Age of Middle-earth?
What Is Tom Bombadil’s Role in The Lord of the Rings and Why Isn’t He in the Movies?
On the page, Tom Bombadil appears early on in The Fellowship of the Ring, rescuing the four hobbits Frodo, Sam, Merry, and Pippin...
What Is Tom Bombadil’s Role in The Lord of the Rings and Why Isn’t He in the Movies?
On the page, Tom Bombadil appears early on in The Fellowship of the Ring, rescuing the four hobbits Frodo, Sam, Merry, and Pippin...
- 5/29/2024
- by John Saavedra
- Den of Geek
Denis Villeneuve’s Dune: Part Two made numerous headlines by becoming the highest-grossing film of the year, thus far. While the performances were brilliant, the film’s technical department also attracted immense praise. One of the standout aspects of the film is its breathtaking makeup.
Renowned makeup artist Donald Mowat worked in the makeup department in both parts of Dune. Mowat also secured an Oscar nomination for his work in the 2021 film. Interestingly, the Dune films could have never achieved such make-up work, had the makeup artist not left another major project.
Timothée Chalamet in Dune | Legendary Pictures
Donald Mowat had to make a tough decision when he was burdened to choose between Dune and No Time to Die. Both were highly anticipated films and the Canadian makeup fame knew that he would surely disappoint a friend as both parties were his regular collaborators.
Why did Donald Mowat choose the Denis Villeneuve film?...
Renowned makeup artist Donald Mowat worked in the makeup department in both parts of Dune. Mowat also secured an Oscar nomination for his work in the 2021 film. Interestingly, the Dune films could have never achieved such make-up work, had the makeup artist not left another major project.
Timothée Chalamet in Dune | Legendary Pictures
Donald Mowat had to make a tough decision when he was burdened to choose between Dune and No Time to Die. Both were highly anticipated films and the Canadian makeup fame knew that he would surely disappoint a friend as both parties were his regular collaborators.
Why did Donald Mowat choose the Denis Villeneuve film?...
- 5/29/2024
- by Subham Mandal
- FandomWire
Peter Jackson’s King Kong was the ninth entry in the King Kong franchise. The film remains Jackson’s only monster movie and he didn’t return to direct a sequel film. But he was interested to see a sequel of the film from one director who has a lifelong fascination with monsters. Jackson thought it would be great if Guillermo del Toro helmed the sequel, after hearing rumors of it at San Diego Comic-Con in 2014.
A still from Peter Jackson’s King Kong (2005) | Legendary Pictures
However, the sequel eventually went nowhere and WB rebooted the franchise with Kong: Skull Island in 2017. Del Toro’s work includes films like Pan’s Labyrinth, Hellboy, and Pacific Rim. He had worked with Peter Jackson to write the screenplay of The Hobbit trilogy.
Peter Jackson Wanted Guillermo del Toro to Helm The King Kong Sequel
Guillermo del Toro (credits: GuillemMedina | Wikimedia Commons)
At the...
A still from Peter Jackson’s King Kong (2005) | Legendary Pictures
However, the sequel eventually went nowhere and WB rebooted the franchise with Kong: Skull Island in 2017. Del Toro’s work includes films like Pan’s Labyrinth, Hellboy, and Pacific Rim. He had worked with Peter Jackson to write the screenplay of The Hobbit trilogy.
Peter Jackson Wanted Guillermo del Toro to Helm The King Kong Sequel
Guillermo del Toro (credits: GuillemMedina | Wikimedia Commons)
At the...
- 5/29/2024
- by Hashim Asraff
- FandomWire
Viggo Mortensen Addresses Potential Return in New Lord of the Rings Movie - Main Image
Viggo Mortensen opened up about his potential return as Aragorn in the new Lord of the Rings movie.
It was recently announced that Warner Bros. is working on a new Lord of the Rings movie titled The Hunt for Gollum with Andy Serkis set to direct and reprise his iconic role and Peter Jackson involved as one of the producers.
Since then, fans have been wondering whether the other actors from the original trilogy will also return in the new film and now one of the stars has weighed in.
Also Read: Meet the Hunters: 5 Characters Who Might Embark on the Hunt for Gollum
Viggo Mortensen on Potential Return in The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum
Mortensen was asked whether he is interested to reprise the role of Aragorn in The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum...
Viggo Mortensen opened up about his potential return as Aragorn in the new Lord of the Rings movie.
It was recently announced that Warner Bros. is working on a new Lord of the Rings movie titled The Hunt for Gollum with Andy Serkis set to direct and reprise his iconic role and Peter Jackson involved as one of the producers.
Since then, fans have been wondering whether the other actors from the original trilogy will also return in the new film and now one of the stars has weighed in.
Also Read: Meet the Hunters: 5 Characters Who Might Embark on the Hunt for Gollum
Viggo Mortensen on Potential Return in The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum
Mortensen was asked whether he is interested to reprise the role of Aragorn in The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum...
- 5/29/2024
- EpicStream
MonsterVerse is currently one of the most significant franchises in pop culture. It kickstarted with 2014’s Godzilla and went on to produce 4 films and 2 TV series. However, there is one film in the franchise that was initially conceived as a different venture, Kong: Skull Island.
The 2017 film was initially planned as a sequel to 2005’s King Kong. After the critical and commercial success of Peter Jackson’s King Kong remake, he thought of making a sequel. Co-incidentally, the director of the last two MonsterVerse films, Adam Wingard, was slated to direct it.
A still from King Kong | Universal Pictures
In an interview, director Adam Wingard revealed that he never had to make any official pitch for his MonsterVerse films. He shared the exciting story about the connection shared between Kong: Skull Island and the iconic Peter Jackson film starring Jack Black, Adrien Brody, and Naomi Watts.
Kong: Skull Island was...
The 2017 film was initially planned as a sequel to 2005’s King Kong. After the critical and commercial success of Peter Jackson’s King Kong remake, he thought of making a sequel. Co-incidentally, the director of the last two MonsterVerse films, Adam Wingard, was slated to direct it.
A still from King Kong | Universal Pictures
In an interview, director Adam Wingard revealed that he never had to make any official pitch for his MonsterVerse films. He shared the exciting story about the connection shared between Kong: Skull Island and the iconic Peter Jackson film starring Jack Black, Adrien Brody, and Naomi Watts.
Kong: Skull Island was...
- 5/29/2024
- by Subham Mandal
- FandomWire
As the driving force behind a blockbuster franchise, Peter Jackson has not only secured a place among some of the most celebrated filmmakers in the industry, but has also made quite a fortune for himself. His journey to Tinseltown has been nothing short of extraordinary, and began with an early start in New Zealand, with multiple short films and cult classics like Bad Taste.
Peter Jackson | Credit: Canal Cat Films
However, his filmmaking journey truly commenced with a 16 mm camera with his two years of savings, which has since transformed into a fortune that now surpasses the combined wealth of two Hollywood giants, Martin Scorsese and James Cameron.
Peter Jackson Reflected on His Humble Beginnings
Peter Jackson’s initial fascination with the world of cinema began with the TV series Thunderbirds and the 1933 film King Kong, which led him to experiment with his family’s home camera and stop-motion animation technique.
Peter Jackson | Credit: Canal Cat Films
However, his filmmaking journey truly commenced with a 16 mm camera with his two years of savings, which has since transformed into a fortune that now surpasses the combined wealth of two Hollywood giants, Martin Scorsese and James Cameron.
Peter Jackson Reflected on His Humble Beginnings
Peter Jackson’s initial fascination with the world of cinema began with the TV series Thunderbirds and the 1933 film King Kong, which led him to experiment with his family’s home camera and stop-motion animation technique.
- 5/28/2024
- by Laxmi Rajput
- FandomWire
Meet the Hunters: 5 Characters Who Might Embark on the Hunt for Gollum - Main Image
Over two decades after The Lord of the Rings trilogy ended, Gollum will return to the Middle-earth in a new Gollum-centric movie, The Hunt for Gollum. The film will take fans back to the past and explore the life of Sméagol before the events of the main movie series.
The original trilogy’s director, Peter Jackson, will return as a producer for The Hunt for Gollum. At the same time, Andy Serkis will reprise his iconic role as Gollum and direct the film.
With the exciting return of Gollum, it’s not beyond the realm of possibility that some beloved characters from the original movies may also make a comeback, sparking a sense of nostalgia and connection among the audience.
So, who will join the hunt for Gollum? Here are the five characters who might...
Over two decades after The Lord of the Rings trilogy ended, Gollum will return to the Middle-earth in a new Gollum-centric movie, The Hunt for Gollum. The film will take fans back to the past and explore the life of Sméagol before the events of the main movie series.
The original trilogy’s director, Peter Jackson, will return as a producer for The Hunt for Gollum. At the same time, Andy Serkis will reprise his iconic role as Gollum and direct the film.
With the exciting return of Gollum, it’s not beyond the realm of possibility that some beloved characters from the original movies may also make a comeback, sparking a sense of nostalgia and connection among the audience.
So, who will join the hunt for Gollum? Here are the five characters who might...
- 5/28/2024
- EpicStream
The prequel film we have all been waiting for is finally here and I am really happy to say that it is as brilliant and bombastic as the original film. Obviously, we are talking about Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, the prequel to George Miller‘s 2015 Mad Max: Fury Road. Directed by Miller from a screenplay by Nico Lathouris and Miller, Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga follows the story of a young Furiosa as she is taken from Green Place of Many Mothers and tries to survive in the wasteland while trying to get back home but the war between great biker horde’s warlord Dementus and Immortan Joe makes it harder. Replacing Charlize Theron from Fury Road, Anya Taylor-Joy takes over the role of Furiosa in the prequel film and it also stars Chris Hemsworth, Tom Burke, Lachy Hulme, John Howard, Angus Sampson, and Nathan Jones. So,...
- 5/26/2024
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
Denis Villeneuve’s Dune: Part Two, which released this year, boasted an incredible cinematic experience for the audiences. One of the primary highlights of the Dune franchise has been the Sandworms. The colossal spice-producing worms on the planet of Arrakis were hauntingly beautiful and provided an exceptional theater experience.
One might think that the sandworm must be the toughest part of the franchise based on Frank Herbert’s works. However, the mastermind behind both the Dune films, Villeneuve has claimed that the Desert Mouse was no cakewalk as well.
The Sandworms in Dune | Legendary Pictures
Even after successfully bringing the mammoth Sandworms on-screen, Denis Villeneuve admitted that the small Desert Mouse demanded a lot of work from the creative department.
What did Denis Villeneuve say about the Desert Mouse in Dune?
Despite being a vast desert planet, Arrakis is an interesting world to explore in the sci-fi universe created by...
One might think that the sandworm must be the toughest part of the franchise based on Frank Herbert’s works. However, the mastermind behind both the Dune films, Villeneuve has claimed that the Desert Mouse was no cakewalk as well.
The Sandworms in Dune | Legendary Pictures
Even after successfully bringing the mammoth Sandworms on-screen, Denis Villeneuve admitted that the small Desert Mouse demanded a lot of work from the creative department.
What did Denis Villeneuve say about the Desert Mouse in Dune?
Despite being a vast desert planet, Arrakis is an interesting world to explore in the sci-fi universe created by...
- 5/25/2024
- by Subham Mandal
- FandomWire
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Variety may receive an affiliate commission.
“The Beach Boys,” a documentary about the iconic band, is now streaming Disney+.
The doc is described as “a celebration of the legendary band that revolutionized pop music and the iconic, harmonious sound they created that personified the California dream, captivating fans for generations and generations to come.”
Stream 'The Beach Boys' On Disney+ $9.99/Month
“The Beach Boys” includes never-before-seen footage and new interviews with band members Brian Wilson, Mike Love, Al Jardine, David Marks and Bruce Johnston, as well as music stars like Lindsey Buckingham, Janelle Monáe, Ryan Tedder and Don Was. Former members Blondie Chaplin and Ricky Fataar are also participating, and the late Carl and Dennis Wilson will be heard from in archival interviews.
Directed by Frank Marshall and Thom Zimny, “The Beach Boys” was...
“The Beach Boys,” a documentary about the iconic band, is now streaming Disney+.
The doc is described as “a celebration of the legendary band that revolutionized pop music and the iconic, harmonious sound they created that personified the California dream, captivating fans for generations and generations to come.”
Stream 'The Beach Boys' On Disney+ $9.99/Month
“The Beach Boys” includes never-before-seen footage and new interviews with band members Brian Wilson, Mike Love, Al Jardine, David Marks and Bruce Johnston, as well as music stars like Lindsey Buckingham, Janelle Monáe, Ryan Tedder and Don Was. Former members Blondie Chaplin and Ricky Fataar are also participating, and the late Carl and Dennis Wilson will be heard from in archival interviews.
Directed by Frank Marshall and Thom Zimny, “The Beach Boys” was...
- 5/24/2024
- by Ellise Shafer
- Variety Film + TV
In J.R.R. Tolkien's 1937 adventure novel "The Hobbit, or There and Back Again," Bilbo Baggins and his merry band of stern dwarf friends are apprehended by a marauding group of wicked goblins and dragged into their dank underground lair. The lead dwarf, Thorin Oakenshield, is targeted as a particular threat by the Goblin King as he is carrying a unique sword called Orcrist, the Goblin-Cleaver. Orcrist, according to Tolkien's lore, was forged millennia ago by expert elf swordsmiths, and passed down through generations. It is a magic sword that glows when orcs are nearby, warning its wielder of danger. Later in "The Hobbit," Thorin would lose Orcrist when he was captured by the Wood-elves of Mirkwood -- though it was eventually returned to him.
In Peter Jackson's three "Hobbit" film adaptations -- "An Unexpected Journey" (2012), "The Desolation of Smaug" (2013), and "The Battle of the Five Armies" (2014) -- Thorin was played by Richard Armitage,...
In Peter Jackson's three "Hobbit" film adaptations -- "An Unexpected Journey" (2012), "The Desolation of Smaug" (2013), and "The Battle of the Five Armies" (2014) -- Thorin was played by Richard Armitage,...
- 5/24/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Denis Villeneuve has flown through the ranks of Hollywood very quickly. Although he has been making massively successful and critically acclaimed projects for years, his name has only recently entered the mainstream media after he started working on the Dune series. Since then, his filmmaking has been appreciated for the gift that it is, and respect has been put in his name.
Bene Gesserit in Denis Villeneuve’s Dune: Part Two [Credit: Warner Bros.]Several other directors have experienced similar treatment in Hollywood, and it would seem that Villeneuve has a special place in his heart for one of them. Recently, the director was asked about his favorite director, and his answer might shock many.
Who is Denis Villeneuve’s Favorite Director?
When it comes to Hollywood, there are several directors who are frequently talked about as some of the greatest. Among them, Martin Scorsese has been given the highest regard.
Bene Gesserit in Denis Villeneuve’s Dune: Part Two [Credit: Warner Bros.]Several other directors have experienced similar treatment in Hollywood, and it would seem that Villeneuve has a special place in his heart for one of them. Recently, the director was asked about his favorite director, and his answer might shock many.
Who is Denis Villeneuve’s Favorite Director?
When it comes to Hollywood, there are several directors who are frequently talked about as some of the greatest. Among them, Martin Scorsese has been given the highest regard.
- 5/23/2024
- by Ananya Godboley
- FandomWire
Let It Be, the iconic documentary capturing the final moments of the Beatles as a band, is making its way back to audiences after decades of being largely unavailable. Directed by Michael Lindsay-Hogg and originally released in 1970, Let It Be has been painstakingly restored by Peter Jackson, bringing a new light and perspective to this legendary footage. Discovery of Positive Moments Peter Jackson, known for his exhaustive work on The Beatles: Get Back, was initially apprehensive about tackling Let It Be. He admitted his concerns, stating, I should be excited, but I just dread what I’m about to see.
The post Ringo Starr Explains Why the Beatles Let It Be Film Has Joy Again first appeared on TVovermind.
The post Ringo Starr Explains Why the Beatles Let It Be Film Has Joy Again first appeared on TVovermind.
- 5/21/2024
- by Steve Delikson
- TVovermind.com
As part of Variety‘s Global Conversations Summit at the Cannes 2024 Film Festival, Variety executive editor Tatiana Siegel sat down with New Zealand Film Commission CEO Annie Murray and Philippa Mossman, head of International Screen Attraction at New Zealand Film Commission, to talk about the country’s thriving film industry.
Murray’s most recent project is a pop-up intensive film school by writer and director Jane Campion. Campion has hand-picked a class of ten filmmakers from 300 applicants and is taking them through a two-year program where they will develop and shoot original short films.
“What’s really important to [Campion] is that all the participants are paid to attend,” Murray explained. “So that removes barriers. It’s a super diverse group and they have spent a year with Dame Jane, who is not taking a fee and so very generously giving her time. And now the next year is making their short films.
Murray’s most recent project is a pop-up intensive film school by writer and director Jane Campion. Campion has hand-picked a class of ten filmmakers from 300 applicants and is taking them through a two-year program where they will develop and shoot original short films.
“What’s really important to [Campion] is that all the participants are paid to attend,” Murray explained. “So that removes barriers. It’s a super diverse group and they have spent a year with Dame Jane, who is not taking a fee and so very generously giving her time. And now the next year is making their short films.
- 5/21/2024
- by Jack Dunn
- Variety Film + TV
Steven Spielberg’s Jurassic Park came out way back in 1993, and was truly a landmark project due to a plethora of reasons. The classic story of what happens when human beings set out to play god came with some groundbreaking VFX and special effects, the kind that effectively brought increased the threshold of possibility when it came to how special effects could help filmmakers expand their horizons.
Generating a whopping $1.05 billion against a budget of $63 million, the movie not only sparked a franchise but also in some ways inspired a total of 3 further billion-dollar franchises. These include George Lucas’ Star Wars, James Cameron’s Avatar, and Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings, all trilogies.
How Jurassic Park inspired (at least) 3 billion-dollar franchises that came years later!
A still from Jurassic Park | Universal Pictures
George Lucas returned to direct The Phantom Menace after previously directing 1977’s original Star War film.
Generating a whopping $1.05 billion against a budget of $63 million, the movie not only sparked a franchise but also in some ways inspired a total of 3 further billion-dollar franchises. These include George Lucas’ Star Wars, James Cameron’s Avatar, and Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings, all trilogies.
How Jurassic Park inspired (at least) 3 billion-dollar franchises that came years later!
A still from Jurassic Park | Universal Pictures
George Lucas returned to direct The Phantom Menace after previously directing 1977’s original Star War film.
- 5/20/2024
- by Rishabh Bhatnagar
- FandomWire
5 Iconic Locations We Can't Wait to Explore in 'Rings of Power' Season 2 - Main Image
J.R.R. Tolkien’s magical world of Middle-earth has enchanted millions since the very first mention of The Shire. With the vivid storytelling in Tolkien’s books, the cinematic grandeur of Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy, and Amazon Prime Video’s The Rings of Power, fans are continually drawn back into this beautiful realm.
Season 2 of The Rings of Power promises to take us further by exploring new and familiar locations, giving viewers a deeper glimpse into Tolkien’s Middle-earth.
Lord of The Rings: Rings of Power Shot in the UK
For the first time in the history of Tolkien adaptations, filming for The Rings of Power moved out of New Zealand and into the UK. This shift marks a new chapter in the visual portrayal of Middle-earth while also leaving room...
J.R.R. Tolkien’s magical world of Middle-earth has enchanted millions since the very first mention of The Shire. With the vivid storytelling in Tolkien’s books, the cinematic grandeur of Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy, and Amazon Prime Video’s The Rings of Power, fans are continually drawn back into this beautiful realm.
Season 2 of The Rings of Power promises to take us further by exploring new and familiar locations, giving viewers a deeper glimpse into Tolkien’s Middle-earth.
Lord of The Rings: Rings of Power Shot in the UK
For the first time in the history of Tolkien adaptations, filming for The Rings of Power moved out of New Zealand and into the UK. This shift marks a new chapter in the visual portrayal of Middle-earth while also leaving room...
- 5/20/2024
- EpicStream
Director Christopher Nolan has made films on some of the most unique concepts, resulting in an interesting filmography for the acclaimed director. However, Nolan’s filmography could have included one sci-fi blockbuster that was eventually directed by Steven Spielberg. Nonetheless, Nolan did not seem interested in directing the project for one reason.
Christopher Nolan was reportedly approached to direct Ready Player One. (Image via Esquire UK)
According to reports, Nolan was once in contention to direct the 2018 science fiction action film Ready Player One. However, Nolan declined the offer because of his desire to pursue original concepts, paving the way for Spielberg to take the director’s chair. Here is everything you need to know about why Nolan turned down a chance to direct Ready Player One.
Christopher Nolan Was Offered Steven Spielberg’s Sci-Fi Blockbuster Ready Player One
Ready Player One is a science-fiction action film based on author...
Christopher Nolan was reportedly approached to direct Ready Player One. (Image via Esquire UK)
According to reports, Nolan was once in contention to direct the 2018 science fiction action film Ready Player One. However, Nolan declined the offer because of his desire to pursue original concepts, paving the way for Spielberg to take the director’s chair. Here is everything you need to know about why Nolan turned down a chance to direct Ready Player One.
Christopher Nolan Was Offered Steven Spielberg’s Sci-Fi Blockbuster Ready Player One
Ready Player One is a science-fiction action film based on author...
- 5/19/2024
- by Pratik Handore
- FandomWire
Warner Bros. Pictures and New Line Cinema have announced the return of The Lord of the Rings franchise, with a new film titled The Hunt for Gollum, slated for release in 2026. This marks an exciting moment as Peter Jackson, the acclaimed director of the original trilogy, is set to produce alongside his longtime collaborators, Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens. Jackson expressed his enthusiasm, stating, It is an honour and a privilege to travel back to Middle-earth with our good friend and collaborator, Andy Serkis, who has unfinished business with that Stinker – Gollum! Intriguing New Alliances The new film
The post Peter Jackson to Produce New Lord of the Rings Film for 2026 Release first appeared on TVovermind.
The post Peter Jackson to Produce New Lord of the Rings Film for 2026 Release first appeared on TVovermind.
- 5/19/2024
- by Steve Delikson
- TVovermind.com
Andy Serkis is no stranger to dual roles. The groundbreaking pioneer in motion-capture work may be most well known among general audiences for his casting in "The Lord of the Rings" as Gollum/Sméagol, everybody's favorite two-faced little gremlin, but that only scratches the surface of his contributions to film over the decades. Serkis has since expanded his talents from acting to directing ("Mowgli: The Legend of the Jungle" and "Venom: Let There Be Carnage" were but a warm-up for his recent announcement as director and star of "The Hunt for Gollum"), delivered a genuinely award-worthy performance as the ape Caesar in the previous "The Planet of the Apes" trilogy, and even found time to depict two very different "Star Wars" characters as Supreme Leader Snoke in "The Last Jedi" and hardened prisoner Kino Loy in "Andor."
But how many of us were aware that the multihyphenate talent was also...
But how many of us were aware that the multihyphenate talent was also...
- 5/18/2024
- by Jeremy Mathai
- Slash Film
The Beatles are undoubtedly one of the most influential bands of all time, ushering in a new age of rock and all in the 60s. While their tenure may have only lasted 10 years, their rich discography has impacted fans to this day, Their songs are still a large part of the zeitgeist, especially in the evolution of the genre and modern artists being inspired by them.
The Beatles performing Paperback Writer
Another big name in the genre that made a sensation in the 90s was Nirvana’s Kurt Cobain. Like many others, he was also inspired by The Beatles and their contribution to the genre. While expressing his love and admiration for John Lennon, the singer threw shade at Paul McCartney, indicating how he considers him inferior to Lennon.
Kurt Cobain Calls Paul McCartney an Embarrassment While Praising John Lennon Kurt Cobain in the music video for Nirvana’s Smells...
The Beatles performing Paperback Writer
Another big name in the genre that made a sensation in the 90s was Nirvana’s Kurt Cobain. Like many others, he was also inspired by The Beatles and their contribution to the genre. While expressing his love and admiration for John Lennon, the singer threw shade at Paul McCartney, indicating how he considers him inferior to Lennon.
Kurt Cobain Calls Paul McCartney an Embarrassment While Praising John Lennon Kurt Cobain in the music video for Nirvana’s Smells...
- 5/18/2024
- by Rahul Thokchom
- FandomWire
Out of nowhere, a new Lord of the Rings movie was recently announced — and with the most surprising premise, too! The upcoming movie will focus on the person we know as Gollum — but more specifically, on the person he used to be before turning into that nauseating creature. Gollum was once called Smeagol, and it’s his story the movie seeks to finally explore after so many years.
What Will the Gollum Movie Be All About?
Recently, Peter Jackson, Andy Serkis, and Philippa Boyens sat down with Deadline to discuss the unexpected Lord of the Rings prequel. The original trilogy’s team is eager to get back in action, and they gladly revealed what few details have been set in stone so far. The most obvious question is, why make a Gollum movie at all?
“We really want to explore [Gollum’s] backstory and delve into those parts of his journey we...
What Will the Gollum Movie Be All About?
Recently, Peter Jackson, Andy Serkis, and Philippa Boyens sat down with Deadline to discuss the unexpected Lord of the Rings prequel. The original trilogy’s team is eager to get back in action, and they gladly revealed what few details have been set in stone so far. The most obvious question is, why make a Gollum movie at all?
“We really want to explore [Gollum’s] backstory and delve into those parts of his journey we...
- 5/17/2024
- by dean-black@startefacts.com (Dean Black)
- STartefacts.com
The Lord of the Rings universe is expanding once again, and fans have a lot to look forward to. While Peter Jackson has been a pivotal figure in bringing J.R.R. Tolkien’s world to life, this time it’s another familiar face steering the ship. Andy Serkis, who famously portrayed Gollum in both the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies, will not only return to star but also direct the upcoming film, The Hunt for Gollum. This news was confirmed during Warner Bros. Discovery’s recent earnings call on May 9 by CEO David Zaslav, highlighting a new direction for the
The post New Lord Of The Rings Movie Lands A Familiar Director And Its Not Peter Jackson first appeared on TVovermind.
The post New Lord Of The Rings Movie Lands A Familiar Director And Its Not Peter Jackson first appeared on TVovermind.
- 5/17/2024
- by Steve Delikson
- TVovermind.com
The blockbuster franchises are showing signs of serious wear and tear, so why don’t the studios take on newer worlds created by the likes of Christopher Nolan and Alex Garland?
Some of the greatest genre movies of all time are sequels. Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back; Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan; The Godfather Part II; The Dark Knight; Police Academy 7: Mission to Moscow. Ok, maybe not that last one, but you get the idea. There is absolutely no reason that lightning can’t strike twice, or even three, four, five, six times, if the will and creative verve are in place.
And yet there is also a law of diminishing returns. This week Planet of the Apes writer-producer team Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver revealed that they are planning another five films in the dystopian sci-fi series, after the barnstorming box office and critical success...
Some of the greatest genre movies of all time are sequels. Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back; Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan; The Godfather Part II; The Dark Knight; Police Academy 7: Mission to Moscow. Ok, maybe not that last one, but you get the idea. There is absolutely no reason that lightning can’t strike twice, or even three, four, five, six times, if the will and creative verve are in place.
And yet there is also a law of diminishing returns. This week Planet of the Apes writer-producer team Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver revealed that they are planning another five films in the dystopian sci-fi series, after the barnstorming box office and critical success...
- 5/17/2024
- by Ben Child
- The Guardian - Film News
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