The trailer for "Wicked" just premiered during the Super Bowl and it features recognizable stars like Bowen Yang and Ariana Grande. But playing the future Wicked Witch Elphaba is someone who might be hard to recognize under all that green make-up: Cynthia Erivo. She's not a household name, but there's a decent chance you've seen (or heard) her somewhere without realizing it.
Erivo is an English actress who rose to prominence with one of her first major theater roles: Celie Harris in the musical stage adaptation of "The Color Purple." She went on to feature in the musical film "Beyond the Lights," then took on the role of Chenice in the West End musical "I Can't Sing!" The name of that show was misleading: Erivo very much could sing, and would continue receiving bigger and better roles as a result. She soon made her Broadway debut in the 2015 revival of "The Color Purple,...
Erivo is an English actress who rose to prominence with one of her first major theater roles: Celie Harris in the musical stage adaptation of "The Color Purple." She went on to feature in the musical film "Beyond the Lights," then took on the role of Chenice in the West End musical "I Can't Sing!" The name of that show was misleading: Erivo very much could sing, and would continue receiving bigger and better roles as a result. She soon made her Broadway debut in the 2015 revival of "The Color Purple,...
- 2/12/2024
- by Michael Boyle
- Slash Film
Over the course of her career, Gina Prince-Bythewood has proven she can do it all. Across five films and roughly 20 years, she had made an enduring romantic sports story, a southern family drama, a pop star star-crossed romance, a superhero fantasy action film, and a feminist historical epic. And with every new genre the filmmaker has ticked off her list, Prince-Bythewood has shown a mastery for its particularities every time.
Born in Chicago, Illinois and raised in Pacific Grove, California, Prince-Bythewood attended University of California in Los Angeles, where she studied film and graduated in 1991. After several years as a writer on TV shows like “A Different World” and “South Central,” her first film, 2000’s “Love and Basketball,” was released to critical acclaim. The story of two childhood best friends with a shared love for basketball — and a chronicle of their tumultuous relationship through the years as they both seek...
Born in Chicago, Illinois and raised in Pacific Grove, California, Prince-Bythewood attended University of California in Los Angeles, where she studied film and graduated in 1991. After several years as a writer on TV shows like “A Different World” and “South Central,” her first film, 2000’s “Love and Basketball,” was released to critical acclaim. The story of two childhood best friends with a shared love for basketball — and a chronicle of their tumultuous relationship through the years as they both seek...
- 2/2/2024
- by Wilson Chapman
- Indiewire
The Paramount Pictures adaptation of the hit YA book “Children of Blood and Bone” is taking another step toward the big screen, with Gina Prince-Bythewood signing on to direct.
Prince-Bythewood will develop the next pass of a draft penned by author Tomi Adeyemi.
The action fantasy novel follows heroine Zélie Adebola, who belongs to a class of magic practicioners know as the maji, as she attempts to restore magic to the kingdom of Orïsha, following the ruling class kosidáns’ brutal suppression of her people.
Rights to the 2018 book by Nigerian American novelist Adeyemi were acquired by Paramount in 2022 after a planned adaptation by Fox2000 and then Disney’s Lucasfilm stalled. Prince-Bythewood will develop another pass of a draft written by Adeyemi, who will also executive produce the film alongside Reggie Rock Bythewood. Wyck Godfrey and Marty Bowen of Temple Hill Entertainment, Karen Rosenfelt of Sunswept Entertainment, and Matt Jackson of Jackson Pictures will produce.
Prince-Bythewood will develop the next pass of a draft penned by author Tomi Adeyemi.
The action fantasy novel follows heroine Zélie Adebola, who belongs to a class of magic practicioners know as the maji, as she attempts to restore magic to the kingdom of Orïsha, following the ruling class kosidáns’ brutal suppression of her people.
Rights to the 2018 book by Nigerian American novelist Adeyemi were acquired by Paramount in 2022 after a planned adaptation by Fox2000 and then Disney’s Lucasfilm stalled. Prince-Bythewood will develop another pass of a draft written by Adeyemi, who will also executive produce the film alongside Reggie Rock Bythewood. Wyck Godfrey and Marty Bowen of Temple Hill Entertainment, Karen Rosenfelt of Sunswept Entertainment, and Matt Jackson of Jackson Pictures will produce.
- 12/14/2023
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Daytime Emmy-winning actor Tyler Christopher has died at age 50. The soap star known for his roles on General Hospital and Days of Our Lives experienced a cardiac event at his San Diego apartment, according to reports.
Tyler Christopher played Nikolas Cassadine on ‘General Hospital’ Rebecca Herbst (Elizabeth) and Tyler Christopher (Nikolas) in a 2009 episode of ‘General Hospital.’ | Ron Tom/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images
Christopher portrayed Nikolas Cassadine on General Hospital from 1996 to 2016. That performance won him a Daytime Emmy for outstanding lead actor in a drama series in 2016. He also played Stefan Dimera on Days of Our Lives from 2001 to 2019. His other work included roles in the ABC Family series The Lying Game and the movie Beyond the Lights. He also made appearances in Jag, CSI, Crossing Jordan, and The Twilight Zone.
Christopher’s former General Hospital co-star Maurice Benard shared the news of his death on Instagram.
Tyler Christopher played Nikolas Cassadine on ‘General Hospital’ Rebecca Herbst (Elizabeth) and Tyler Christopher (Nikolas) in a 2009 episode of ‘General Hospital.’ | Ron Tom/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images
Christopher portrayed Nikolas Cassadine on General Hospital from 1996 to 2016. That performance won him a Daytime Emmy for outstanding lead actor in a drama series in 2016. He also played Stefan Dimera on Days of Our Lives from 2001 to 2019. His other work included roles in the ABC Family series The Lying Game and the movie Beyond the Lights. He also made appearances in Jag, CSI, Crossing Jordan, and The Twilight Zone.
Christopher’s former General Hospital co-star Maurice Benard shared the news of his death on Instagram.
- 11/1/2023
- by Megan Elliott
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Tyler Christopher, who starred as Nikolas Cassadine on General Hospital, has died. He was 50.
Christopher’s co-star Maurice Benard, who played Sonny Corinthos on the ABC soap opera, wrote on Instagram Tuesday evening, “It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Tyler Christopher. Tyler passed away this morning following a cardiac event in his San Diego apartment.”
He continued, “Tyler was a truly talented individual that lit up the screen in every scene he performed and relished bringing joy to his loyal fans through his acting. Tyler was a sweet soul and wonderful friend to all of those who knew him. Tyler was an advocate for better mental health and substance use treatment who openly spoke about his struggles with bipolar depression and alcohol. We are beyond devastated by the loss of our dear friend and pray for his children and his father.”
View...
Christopher’s co-star Maurice Benard, who played Sonny Corinthos on the ABC soap opera, wrote on Instagram Tuesday evening, “It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Tyler Christopher. Tyler passed away this morning following a cardiac event in his San Diego apartment.”
He continued, “Tyler was a truly talented individual that lit up the screen in every scene he performed and relished bringing joy to his loyal fans through his acting. Tyler was a sweet soul and wonderful friend to all of those who knew him. Tyler was an advocate for better mental health and substance use treatment who openly spoke about his struggles with bipolar depression and alcohol. We are beyond devastated by the loss of our dear friend and pray for his children and his father.”
View...
- 11/1/2023
- by Carly Thomas
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Tragedy has struck the world of daytime TV as it has been revealed that veteran soap star Tyler Christopher has died.
He was 50.
The actor was best known for his work as Nikolas Cassadine on daytime sudser General Hospital.
Maurice Benard, Christopher's one-time General Hospital costar, took to Instagram to confirm the news and pay tribute.
"It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Tyler Christopher," he wrote.
"Tyler passed away this morning following a cardiac event in his San Diego apartment."
"Tyler was a truly talented individual that lit up the screen in every scene he performed and relished bringing joy to his loyal fans through his acting," Maurice said of his fallen friend.
"Tyler was a sweet soul and wonderful friend to all of those who knew him."
Benard also opened up about Tyler being an advocate for "better mental health...
He was 50.
The actor was best known for his work as Nikolas Cassadine on daytime sudser General Hospital.
Maurice Benard, Christopher's one-time General Hospital costar, took to Instagram to confirm the news and pay tribute.
"It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Tyler Christopher," he wrote.
"Tyler passed away this morning following a cardiac event in his San Diego apartment."
"Tyler was a truly talented individual that lit up the screen in every scene he performed and relished bringing joy to his loyal fans through his acting," Maurice said of his fallen friend.
"Tyler was a sweet soul and wonderful friend to all of those who knew him."
Benard also opened up about Tyler being an advocate for "better mental health...
- 11/1/2023
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
Tyler Christopher, known for his role as Nikolas Cassadine on “General Hospital,” has died. He was 50.
Christopher’s “General Hospital” co-star Maurice Benard announced the news on Instagram Tuesday evening, writing, “Tyler passed away this morning following a cardiac event in his San Diego apartment.”
Benard continued, “Tyler was a truly talented individual that lit up the screen in every scene he performed and relished bringing joy to his loyal fans through his acting. Tyler was a sweet soul and wonderful friend to all of those who knew him.”
Benard noted that “Tyler was an advocate for better mental health and substance use treatment who openly spoke about his struggles with bipolar depression and alcohol.”
Christopher portrayed Nikolas Cassadine on the medical soap opera from 1996 to 2016, as well as Connor Bishop from 2004 to 2005. In 2016, he won the Daytime Emmy for his performance as Nikolas, and previously earned four nominations, one...
Christopher’s “General Hospital” co-star Maurice Benard announced the news on Instagram Tuesday evening, writing, “Tyler passed away this morning following a cardiac event in his San Diego apartment.”
Benard continued, “Tyler was a truly talented individual that lit up the screen in every scene he performed and relished bringing joy to his loyal fans through his acting. Tyler was a sweet soul and wonderful friend to all of those who knew him.”
Benard noted that “Tyler was an advocate for better mental health and substance use treatment who openly spoke about his struggles with bipolar depression and alcohol.”
Christopher portrayed Nikolas Cassadine on the medical soap opera from 1996 to 2016, as well as Connor Bishop from 2004 to 2005. In 2016, he won the Daytime Emmy for his performance as Nikolas, and previously earned four nominations, one...
- 10/31/2023
- by Michaela Zee
- Variety Film + TV
Soap opera star Tyler Christopher, who starred on both “General Hospital” and “Days of Our Lives,” has died at 50.
The news was shared Tuesday by “General Hospital” star Maurice Benard on his Instagram.
“It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Tyler Christopher,” he wrote. “Tyler passed away this morning following a cardiac event in his San Diego apartment.”
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Maurice Benard (@mauricebenard)
Benard added, “Tyler was a truly talented individual that lit up the screen in every scene he performed and relished bringing joy to his loyal fans through his acting. Tyler was a sweet soul and wonderful friend to all of those who knew him.”
“General Hospital” executive producer Frank Valentini also posted about Tyler’s passing on Twitter. “I am heartbroken over the news of Tyler Christopher’s passing. He was kind, an...
The news was shared Tuesday by “General Hospital” star Maurice Benard on his Instagram.
“It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Tyler Christopher,” he wrote. “Tyler passed away this morning following a cardiac event in his San Diego apartment.”
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Maurice Benard (@mauricebenard)
Benard added, “Tyler was a truly talented individual that lit up the screen in every scene he performed and relished bringing joy to his loyal fans through his acting. Tyler was a sweet soul and wonderful friend to all of those who knew him.”
“General Hospital” executive producer Frank Valentini also posted about Tyler’s passing on Twitter. “I am heartbroken over the news of Tyler Christopher’s passing. He was kind, an...
- 10/31/2023
- by Sharon Knolle
- The Wrap
Puppy Love is a romantic comedy film directed by Nick Fabiano and Richard Alan Reid from a screenplay by Greg Glienna, Peter Stass, and Kristen Guenther. The rom-com film stars Grant Gustin and Lucy Hale in the lead roles of Max and Nicole. Puppy Love follows the two after a horrible first date but Max’s dog gets pregnant by Nicole’s dog and this starts a cutesy and anxiety-filled love story. So, if you loved Puppy Love here are some similar movies you could watch next.
Rescued by Ruby (Netflix) Credit – Netflix
Synopsis: State trooper Dan (Grant Gustin) dreams of joining the K-9 Search & Rescue team, but no one will give him the chance. Shelter dog Ruby dreams of having a home, but is running out of hope. When fate brings Dan and Ruby together, it’s their unshakable bond that helps them face their toughest challenge yet. Based on a true story.
Rescued by Ruby (Netflix) Credit – Netflix
Synopsis: State trooper Dan (Grant Gustin) dreams of joining the K-9 Search & Rescue team, but no one will give him the chance. Shelter dog Ruby dreams of having a home, but is running out of hope. When fate brings Dan and Ruby together, it’s their unshakable bond that helps them face their toughest challenge yet. Based on a true story.
- 8/12/2023
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
Gugu Mbatha-Raw will lead the voice cast of the animated short film “To My Daughter.”
The “Surface” star will narrate the movie, which is an adaptation of “This Thread of Gold,” the debut book by actor, writer, filmmaker and Un gender advisor Catherine Joy White.
“This Thread of Gold” is billed as a celebration of Black womanhood, weaving a story about resilience that connects Beyoncé, Nina Simone, Shirley Chisholm and Meghan Markle, as well as those throughout history “who resisted in secret through trusted networks.” The film is described as “part guidebook, part exuberant narrative and part poetry.”
White has adapted one chapter of the book, entitled “Daughter,” which is a letter written to her imagined daughter. Mbatha-Raw will voice the narrator who leads the audience through the film.
Mbatha-Raw said of the project: “I was immediately captivated by the poetry of Catherine Joy White’s ‘To My Daughter.’ Her words pulse with joy,...
The “Surface” star will narrate the movie, which is an adaptation of “This Thread of Gold,” the debut book by actor, writer, filmmaker and Un gender advisor Catherine Joy White.
“This Thread of Gold” is billed as a celebration of Black womanhood, weaving a story about resilience that connects Beyoncé, Nina Simone, Shirley Chisholm and Meghan Markle, as well as those throughout history “who resisted in secret through trusted networks.” The film is described as “part guidebook, part exuberant narrative and part poetry.”
White has adapted one chapter of the book, entitled “Daughter,” which is a letter written to her imagined daughter. Mbatha-Raw will voice the narrator who leads the audience through the film.
Mbatha-Raw said of the project: “I was immediately captivated by the poetry of Catherine Joy White’s ‘To My Daughter.’ Her words pulse with joy,...
- 6/30/2023
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: As production on his new actioner Den of Thieves 2: Pantera continues, Christian Gudegast has been set to write and direct a new film on mixed martial artist Royce Gracie and the birth of the Ultimate Fighting Championship for frequent partner Tucker Tooley Entertainment.
The Untitled Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Project takes place on the night that Gracie proved Brazilian Jiu-jitsu as the most effective fighting style, one that would ultimately become a major component of today’s UFC mixed martial arts. It more specifically chronicles Gracie’s debut in UFC 1 on November 12, 1993, when the fighter achieved the unthinkable during the organization’s inaugural competition. This night that had him besting three competitors is considered to be that on which the UFC was born.
Derived from Japanese jiu-jitsu, which is rooted in samurai traditions, Gracie Jiu-jitsu formed in Brazil in the 1920s when Japanese fighter Mitsuyo Maeda moved from Japan to...
The Untitled Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Project takes place on the night that Gracie proved Brazilian Jiu-jitsu as the most effective fighting style, one that would ultimately become a major component of today’s UFC mixed martial arts. It more specifically chronicles Gracie’s debut in UFC 1 on November 12, 1993, when the fighter achieved the unthinkable during the organization’s inaugural competition. This night that had him besting three competitors is considered to be that on which the UFC was born.
Derived from Japanese jiu-jitsu, which is rooted in samurai traditions, Gracie Jiu-jitsu formed in Brazil in the 1920s when Japanese fighter Mitsuyo Maeda moved from Japan to...
- 5/23/2023
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Director-writer Gina Prince-Bythewood, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-ny) and Mexico City Governor Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo will be the recipients of the Motion Picture Association’s MPA Awards.
The event, to take place in June at the MPA headquarters in Washington, was started last year to honor those who “have made notable contributions to the film, TV and streaming industry,” according to the trade organization.
Prince-Bythewood, receiving the MPA Creator Award, most recently directed The Woman King for Sony’s TriStar Pictures. She has written and directed feature films such as Love & Basketball, The Secret Life of Bees and Beyond The Lights. She and her husband Reggie Rock Bythewood serve as executive producers of the upcoming Disney+ and National Geographic series Genius: MLK/X via their production company Undisputed Cinema.
Jeffries, receiving the Industry Champion Award, is being recognized for ensuring “that the American creative community continues to drive economic...
The event, to take place in June at the MPA headquarters in Washington, was started last year to honor those who “have made notable contributions to the film, TV and streaming industry,” according to the trade organization.
Prince-Bythewood, receiving the MPA Creator Award, most recently directed The Woman King for Sony’s TriStar Pictures. She has written and directed feature films such as Love & Basketball, The Secret Life of Bees and Beyond The Lights. She and her husband Reggie Rock Bythewood serve as executive producers of the upcoming Disney+ and National Geographic series Genius: MLK/X via their production company Undisputed Cinema.
Jeffries, receiving the Industry Champion Award, is being recognized for ensuring “that the American creative community continues to drive economic...
- 5/23/2023
- by Ted Johnson
- Deadline Film + TV
1. Aneurin Barnard Aneurin Barnard is awesome in Dunkirk and The Goldfinch, but people still don’t talk about him enough. He’s got some serious acting skills. 2. Gugu Mbatha-Raw Gugu Mbatha-Raw is amazing in movies like Belle and Beyond the Lights, but she doesn’t get the attention she deserves. She can play so many different characters! 3. Toby Kebbell Toby Kebbell is great in A Monster Calls and RocknRolla, but he’s still underrated. He can show so much emotion without even saying a word. 4. Sarah Gadon Sarah Gadon is totally rad in Alias Grace and Enemy, but peeps don’t...
- 3/29/2023
- by Tony Matutai
- TVovermind.com
Exclusive: Veteran producer Stephanie Allain has joined David Gordon Green’s The Exorcist, as executive producer. In addition, the first film in the trilogy from Blumhouse and Morgan Creek for Universal and Peacock has recently wrapped principal photography. The pic hits theaters on Oct. 13.
“I’ve known Stephanie for years — she’s the coolest and steadiest producer around, and I’m thrilled we’re finally able to work together,” said producer Jason Blum.
“I’m so delighted to join Blumhouse, Dgg, Leslie Odom, Jr., and this remarkable cast and crew on a frightening new iteration of one of my favorite films,” said Allain.
Allain and her Homegrown Pictures have produced such movies as Hustle & Flow, Something New, Black Snake Moan, Beyond the Lights, Dear White People, French Dirty, Burning Sands, Juanita and Really Love. She executive produced four seasons of Dear White People. From 2011-2016, she served as Director of the LA Film Festival,...
“I’ve known Stephanie for years — she’s the coolest and steadiest producer around, and I’m thrilled we’re finally able to work together,” said producer Jason Blum.
“I’m so delighted to join Blumhouse, Dgg, Leslie Odom, Jr., and this remarkable cast and crew on a frightening new iteration of one of my favorite films,” said Allain.
Allain and her Homegrown Pictures have produced such movies as Hustle & Flow, Something New, Black Snake Moan, Beyond the Lights, Dear White People, French Dirty, Burning Sands, Juanita and Really Love. She executive produced four seasons of Dear White People. From 2011-2016, she served as Director of the LA Film Festival,...
- 3/10/2023
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Filmmakers Gina Prince-Bythewood and Reginald Hudlin were celebrated Wednesday evening at the eighth pre-Oscar dinner of Icon Mann, a media and consulting company run by Tamara Houston that is dedicated to honoring the achievements of artists of color and providing a meeting place for powerful Black men, in particular.
During an elegant ceremony at the Waldorf Astoria in Beverly Hills that was hosted by CBS News anchor Errol Barnett, many of the most distinguished members of Hollywood’s Black community gathered to fete the veteran filmmakers behind two of 2022’s most acclaimed films — Prince-Bythewood’s Sony historical drama The Woman King and Hudlin’s Apple TV+ documentary feature Sidney — both of which were glaringly passed over for recognition by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
Perhaps not coincidentally, the first person to toast Prince-Bythewood — the recipient of the Maverick Award “for breaking boundaries in the cinematic and televised...
During an elegant ceremony at the Waldorf Astoria in Beverly Hills that was hosted by CBS News anchor Errol Barnett, many of the most distinguished members of Hollywood’s Black community gathered to fete the veteran filmmakers behind two of 2022’s most acclaimed films — Prince-Bythewood’s Sony historical drama The Woman King and Hudlin’s Apple TV+ documentary feature Sidney — both of which were glaringly passed over for recognition by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
Perhaps not coincidentally, the first person to toast Prince-Bythewood — the recipient of the Maverick Award “for breaking boundaries in the cinematic and televised...
- 3/9/2023
- by Scott Feinberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: Wade Allain-Marcus has been cast in the Netflix limited series Eric, starring Benedict Cumberbatch, in a recurring role. He will portray club owner Ali Gator.
The six-parter follows Vincent Anderson (Cumberbatch), a grief-stricken puppeteer on a leading TV show whose young boy goes missing and who finds solace through his friendship with Eric, the monster that lives under his son’s bed.
Eric also stars Gaby Hoffman, McKinley Belcher III, Dan Fogler and Phoebe Nicholls. Clarke Peters, Ivan Morris Howe, David Denman, Bamar Kane, Adepero Odyue, Alexis Molnar and Roberta Colindrez will recur.
Most recently, Allain-Marcus starred in the fifth and final season of HBO’s Insecure. He recurred in the hit series across the show’s five seasons in the role of Derek DuBois, husband of Amanda Seales’ character Tiffany DuBois.
Previously, he portrayed Diego in FX’s Snowfall, a co-leader of the Cali Cartel. Snowfall...
The six-parter follows Vincent Anderson (Cumberbatch), a grief-stricken puppeteer on a leading TV show whose young boy goes missing and who finds solace through his friendship with Eric, the monster that lives under his son’s bed.
Eric also stars Gaby Hoffman, McKinley Belcher III, Dan Fogler and Phoebe Nicholls. Clarke Peters, Ivan Morris Howe, David Denman, Bamar Kane, Adepero Odyue, Alexis Molnar and Roberta Colindrez will recur.
Most recently, Allain-Marcus starred in the fifth and final season of HBO’s Insecure. He recurred in the hit series across the show’s five seasons in the role of Derek DuBois, husband of Amanda Seales’ character Tiffany DuBois.
Previously, he portrayed Diego in FX’s Snowfall, a co-leader of the Cali Cartel. Snowfall...
- 2/22/2023
- by Rosy Cordero
- Deadline Film + TV
Diane Warren is heading back to the Dolby Theatre. The legendary songwriter garnered her 14th Oscar nomination on Tuesday recognizing her work on “Applause” — an original song penned for the Samuel Goldwyn Films anthology, Tell It Like a Woman.
Related Story Oscar Nominations: The Complete List of Nominees Related Story How To Watch The 2023 Oscar Nominations Related Story Ryan Coogler On Sundance & 'Fruitvale Station' A Decade Later & How 'Creed' May Be The Most Park City Franchise Ever
While Warren was recognized in November with an Honorary Oscar, she has somehow not yet taken home a statuette for Best Original Song. Her most recent nominations from the Film Academy have come for the songs “Somehow You Do” from Vertical Entertainment’s addiction drama, Four Good Days; “Io Si (Seen)” from Netflix’s Sophia Lorren starrer The Life Ahead, co-written by Laura Pausini; “I’m Standing With You” from Twentieth Century Fox...
Related Story Oscar Nominations: The Complete List of Nominees Related Story How To Watch The 2023 Oscar Nominations Related Story Ryan Coogler On Sundance & 'Fruitvale Station' A Decade Later & How 'Creed' May Be The Most Park City Franchise Ever
While Warren was recognized in November with an Honorary Oscar, she has somehow not yet taken home a statuette for Best Original Song. Her most recent nominations from the Film Academy have come for the songs “Somehow You Do” from Vertical Entertainment’s addiction drama, Four Good Days; “Io Si (Seen)” from Netflix’s Sophia Lorren starrer The Life Ahead, co-written by Laura Pausini; “I’m Standing With You” from Twentieth Century Fox...
- 1/24/2023
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
The Oscar category of Best Original Song seems to have a concrete group of four tunes anticipated to be selected as nominees for Tuesday’s announcement. They include Golden Globe and Critics Choice Award winner “Naatu Naatu” from “Rrr” (M.M. Keeravani and Chandrabose), plus “Hold My Hand” from “Top Gun: Maverick”, “Lift Me Up” from “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever”, and “Ciao Papa” from “Guillermo Del Toro’s Pinocchio”. That leaves at least one spot potentially open for a surprise nominee. When predicting the song category, it is best to keep in mind that the music branch clearly has their favorites, and that usually tends to fill up a couple uncertain slots. This year, two of those songwriters may have a better shot at another Oscar nomination than most people think: perennial nominees Diane Warren for “Applause” from “Tell It Like A Woman,” and J. Ralph for “Dust & Ash” from the documentary...
- 1/23/2023
- by Christopher Tsang
- Gold Derby
American Cinema Editors has announced it will honor The Woman King director Gina Prince-Bythewood with its Ace Golden Eddie Filmmaker of the Year Award at the 73rd annual Ace Eddie Awards, taking place within UCLA’s Royce Hall on March 5, 2023.
The Golden Eddie is an award recognizing an artist who exemplifies distinguished achievement in the art and business of film. Past recipients include Spike Lee, Quentin Tarantino, Kathleen Kennedy, Christopher Nolan, Lauren Shuler Donner, Guillermo del Toro, Vince Gilligan, J.J. Abrams, Nancy Meyers, Martin Scorsese, Norman Jewison, Robert Zemeckis, George Lucas, and the Sundance Institute, among others.
“A supremely versatile trailblazer from day one of her career, Gina Prince-Bythewood has consistently entertained us with intimate films and global blockbusters that explore the human experience through formidable female characters,” said Ace president Kevin Tent, Ace. “A champion of diverse, character-driven narratives, her latest film — The Woman King — is the crown jewel...
The Golden Eddie is an award recognizing an artist who exemplifies distinguished achievement in the art and business of film. Past recipients include Spike Lee, Quentin Tarantino, Kathleen Kennedy, Christopher Nolan, Lauren Shuler Donner, Guillermo del Toro, Vince Gilligan, J.J. Abrams, Nancy Meyers, Martin Scorsese, Norman Jewison, Robert Zemeckis, George Lucas, and the Sundance Institute, among others.
“A supremely versatile trailblazer from day one of her career, Gina Prince-Bythewood has consistently entertained us with intimate films and global blockbusters that explore the human experience through formidable female characters,” said Ace president Kevin Tent, Ace. “A champion of diverse, character-driven narratives, her latest film — The Woman King — is the crown jewel...
- 10/27/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Gina Prince-Bythewood doesn’t find herself intimidated very often. Why would she be? The director kicked off her career with a bona fide sports-movie classic, Love & Basketball, which was the talk of the 2000 Sundance Film Festival; she’d made critically acclaimed dramas like Beyond the Lights and superhero blockbusters like The Old Guard, one of Netflix’s biggest hits to date. She has a half dozen TV-episode credits to her name, and co-developed the series Shots Fired. But then she had to direct Viola Davis.
For a little while, on...
For a little while, on...
- 9/19/2022
- by Esther Zuckerman
- Rollingstone.com
Gina Prince-Bythewood made her name making tremendous dramas that I feel never got the proper respect that they deserved. Partly, this is due to the fact that she makes movies about women, which generally don't get as much respect as they should. Partly, it's because her best work were romances, such as "Love & Basketball" and "Beyond the Lights," a genre that has rarely gotten its proper due since the turn of the 21st century. These romances were also connected to the worlds of women's basketball and pop music, respectively, which many see as trivial.
This was not the lane Prince-Bythewood always saw herself in, though. At the heart of these films is classic Hollywood entertainment, and she looked to bring that to the action genre as well. She had signed up to make "Silver & Black" for Marvel and Sony, which would have been a film about Silver Sable and...
This was not the lane Prince-Bythewood always saw herself in, though. At the heart of these films is classic Hollywood entertainment, and she looked to bring that to the action genre as well. She had signed up to make "Silver & Black" for Marvel and Sony, which would have been a film about Silver Sable and...
- 9/18/2022
- by Mike Shutt
- Slash Film
It started with a simple question: Why aren’t there more films about Black superheroes? For director Gina Prince-Bythewood, that query opened her journey into directing “The Woman King” and entering the highly rarefied space of being a Black female filmmaker making a big-budget blockbuster that centered on a Black story with a Black woman as its star. Superheroic to boot.
“I’ve always seen myself here, but the industry has not seen me here,” Prince-Bythewood said in a recent interview with IndieWire. “[My whole family] loves Marvel movies. We go to all of them, and it was maybe two years before ‘Black Panther’ came out, and my older son said to me, ‘Why isn’t there a Black superhero?’ And at that moment I was like, ‘I keep saying I would love to do that for you, so let me stop saying I would love it, and do that.’ So what steps do I need to take?...
“I’ve always seen myself here, but the industry has not seen me here,” Prince-Bythewood said in a recent interview with IndieWire. “[My whole family] loves Marvel movies. We go to all of them, and it was maybe two years before ‘Black Panther’ came out, and my older son said to me, ‘Why isn’t there a Black superhero?’ And at that moment I was like, ‘I keep saying I would love to do that for you, so let me stop saying I would love it, and do that.’ So what steps do I need to take?...
- 9/16/2022
- by Kate Erbland
- Indiewire
The stars descended on Soho House in downtown Toronto on Saturday for Variety and Chanel’s Female Filmmakers’ Dinner during the Toronto International Film Festival.
Guests in attendance included Tilda Swinton, star of Joanna Hogg’s “The Eternal Daughter”; Gina Prince-Bythewood, director of “The Woman King”; Darren Aronofsky, director of “The Whale”; and Anna Kendrick, who’s in Toronto shopping her new AGC Studios project “The Dating Game” to market buyers.
Stars mingled on a packed rooftop before convening in the club’s private dining room, which gathered around 100 of the festival’s bright lights in filmmaking. They dined on a bespoke Soho House menu of beef tartare with black truffle, black cod and bok choy, and wagyu rib cap with porcini purée.
The dinner was hosted by Variety CEO and group publisher Michelle Sobrino-Stearns and co-editor-in-chief Ramin Setoodeh.
Attendees included Judd Apatow and Leslie Bibb; Margaret Qualley and Jack Antanoff...
Guests in attendance included Tilda Swinton, star of Joanna Hogg’s “The Eternal Daughter”; Gina Prince-Bythewood, director of “The Woman King”; Darren Aronofsky, director of “The Whale”; and Anna Kendrick, who’s in Toronto shopping her new AGC Studios project “The Dating Game” to market buyers.
Stars mingled on a packed rooftop before convening in the club’s private dining room, which gathered around 100 of the festival’s bright lights in filmmaking. They dined on a bespoke Soho House menu of beef tartare with black truffle, black cod and bok choy, and wagyu rib cap with porcini purée.
The dinner was hosted by Variety CEO and group publisher Michelle Sobrino-Stearns and co-editor-in-chief Ramin Setoodeh.
Attendees included Judd Apatow and Leslie Bibb; Margaret Qualley and Jack Antanoff...
- 9/11/2022
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Don’t say Viola Davis can’t do something, because she’ll continue to prove you wrong. At 56, action star is another notch on the belt of the esteemed actor, who has won a Tony, Emmy and Oscar. Her achievement in Gina Prince-Bythewood’s resounding epic “The Woman King,” along with the sensational ensemble, is among the highlights of the Toronto Film Festival, which premiered the film on Friday night. It feels like the “Gladiator” for Black women, and what a welcome surprise.
With the right messaging and awards campaign from Sony Pictures, the film could be among the many consumer-friendly titles in the hunt for Oscar attention.
Davis is another name added to the long list of best actress contenders that already includes Michelle Yeoh (“Everything Everywhere All at Once”), Cate Blanchett (“Tár”) Olivia Colman (“Empire of Light”), with others waiting in the wings, such as Danielle Deadwyler (“Till...
With the right messaging and awards campaign from Sony Pictures, the film could be among the many consumer-friendly titles in the hunt for Oscar attention.
Davis is another name added to the long list of best actress contenders that already includes Michelle Yeoh (“Everything Everywhere All at Once”), Cate Blanchett (“Tár”) Olivia Colman (“Empire of Light”), with others waiting in the wings, such as Danielle Deadwyler (“Till...
- 9/10/2022
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
In Conversation With… session hears how and director have fought for their success.
Viola Davis and director Gina Prince-Bythewood, the formidable forces behind TIFF world premiere The Woman King, have opened up in an on-stage festival discussion about their personal battles for success as Black artists.
‘The Woman King’: Toronto Review
The audience at Saturday’s (September 10) In Conversation With… session at TIFF Bell Lightbox heard how despite Davis’s talent, the Juilliard School graduate and eventual first African-American to achieve the “triple crown of acting” – Oscar, Emmy and Tony awards – wasn’t immune to rejection based on her gender and race.
Viola Davis and director Gina Prince-Bythewood, the formidable forces behind TIFF world premiere The Woman King, have opened up in an on-stage festival discussion about their personal battles for success as Black artists.
‘The Woman King’: Toronto Review
The audience at Saturday’s (September 10) In Conversation With… session at TIFF Bell Lightbox heard how despite Davis’s talent, the Juilliard School graduate and eventual first African-American to achieve the “triple crown of acting” – Oscar, Emmy and Tony awards – wasn’t immune to rejection based on her gender and race.
- 9/10/2022
- by Alexandria Slater
- ScreenDaily
Gina Prince Bythewood’s period film The Woman King opens with an incredible action sequence with General Nanisca (Viola Davis) of The Agojie army approaching a village of men holding their women hostage. Men are getting sliced, diced and tossed across the screen by these mighty warrior women. After they arrive back in the Dahomey kingdom victorious, the story introduces Nawi (Thuso Mbedu), an unmarried young woman deemed worthless because she has no husband. She’s taken to the palace and introduced to Izogie (Lashana Lynch) and Amenza (Shiela Atim), Dahomey’s top soldiers in the King Ghezo Royal guard. Women in the army are respected, and when they pledge to service, they take an oath of celibacy and childlessness to be accepted and train.
Life is thriving for the Dahomey, but something is looming. There is an impending sense of dread that war against the slave-selling general of the...
Life is thriving for the Dahomey, but something is looming. There is an impending sense of dread that war against the slave-selling general of the...
- 9/10/2022
- by Valerie Complex
- Deadline Film + TV
“The Woman King” director Gina Prince-Bythewood, actress Viola Davis, and the rest of the historical epic’s star-studded cast conquered the red carpet on Friday before premiering their fact-based blockbuster to the Toronto International Film Festival.
Due in theaters September 16, actress Maria Bello’s first screenwriting credit tells the action-packed saga of the Agojie: an all-female unit of warriors who protected the West African kingdom of Dahomey in the 19th century.
“People need to see women warriors,” Davis told IndieWire at the premiere. “In this day and age, in this culture where women are under attack, where our choices, our bodies, everything that we are: We are second-class citizens. I would love for women to tap into that warrior spirit, to know that they have the power to change the narrative. ”
Davis plays the steely Agojie general Nanisca in “The Woman King.” The four-time Oscar nominee underwent a mind-blowing physical transformation for the starring role,...
Due in theaters September 16, actress Maria Bello’s first screenwriting credit tells the action-packed saga of the Agojie: an all-female unit of warriors who protected the West African kingdom of Dahomey in the 19th century.
“People need to see women warriors,” Davis told IndieWire at the premiere. “In this day and age, in this culture where women are under attack, where our choices, our bodies, everything that we are: We are second-class citizens. I would love for women to tap into that warrior spirit, to know that they have the power to change the narrative. ”
Davis plays the steely Agojie general Nanisca in “The Woman King.” The four-time Oscar nominee underwent a mind-blowing physical transformation for the starring role,...
- 9/9/2022
- by Alison Foreman
- Indiewire
The San Diego International Film Festival has announced its 2022 lineup, featuring the return of Opening Night Film Premiere & Reception, the Night of the Stars Tribute and Culinary Cinema, Variety has learned exclusively.
In its 21st year, Sdiff received more than 3,000 film submissions from 82 countries. The lineup consists of 115 films total, including 27 Narrative Competition films, 11 Documentary Competition films and 77 shorts.
Sdiff’s Gala Features screenings this year include the San Diego premieres of “Taurus,” “Empire of Light” and “The Lost King.” James Gray’s “Armageddon Time” leads the pack of award season studio films at this year’s film fest, which is featured in Sdiff’s Opening Night Film lineup alongside “The Banshees of Inisherin,” “Close,” “Empire of Light” and “Good Night Oppy.”
Colson Baker, known professionally as Machine Gun Kelly, will also receive the annual Spotlight Award following the screening of his newest drama film “Taurus” on Oct. 23. Baker made...
In its 21st year, Sdiff received more than 3,000 film submissions from 82 countries. The lineup consists of 115 films total, including 27 Narrative Competition films, 11 Documentary Competition films and 77 shorts.
Sdiff’s Gala Features screenings this year include the San Diego premieres of “Taurus,” “Empire of Light” and “The Lost King.” James Gray’s “Armageddon Time” leads the pack of award season studio films at this year’s film fest, which is featured in Sdiff’s Opening Night Film lineup alongside “The Banshees of Inisherin,” “Close,” “Empire of Light” and “Good Night Oppy.”
Colson Baker, known professionally as Machine Gun Kelly, will also receive the annual Spotlight Award following the screening of his newest drama film “Taurus” on Oct. 23. Baker made...
- 9/7/2022
- by Michaela Zee
- Variety Film + TV
The Producers Guild of America (PGA) announced today the election of new presidents Stephanie Allain and Donald De Line during the Guild’s annual membership meeting. Allain and De Line ran unopposed and assume the roles from Gail Berman and Lucy Fisher, who had served as presidents since 2018.
“As proud members of the PGA for over twenty years, it’s a great privilege to serve as Presidents,” Allain and De Line said. “Gail and Lucy’s excellent leadership has grown and strengthened the Guild, and we will build on their progress. Along with Susan Sprung and her team, we will continue to educate the industry on the role of the producer, support producers’ efforts for fair and commensurate compensation and benefits, welcome and encourage a more diverse membership, and endeavor to attain broader healthcare coverage while educating members on the current benefits and opportunities available to them.”
“Stephanie and Donald are legendary industry leaders,...
“As proud members of the PGA for over twenty years, it’s a great privilege to serve as Presidents,” Allain and De Line said. “Gail and Lucy’s excellent leadership has grown and strengthened the Guild, and we will build on their progress. Along with Susan Sprung and her team, we will continue to educate the industry on the role of the producer, support producers’ efforts for fair and commensurate compensation and benefits, welcome and encourage a more diverse membership, and endeavor to attain broader healthcare coverage while educating members on the current benefits and opportunities available to them.”
“Stephanie and Donald are legendary industry leaders,...
- 8/24/2022
- by Dessi Gomez
- The Wrap
Industry veterans Stephanie Allain and Donald De Line have been elected presidents of the Producers Guild of America, the guild announced on Tuesday.
The pair ran unopposed, and will succeed Gail Berman and Lucy Fisher, who have led the organization since 2018. Allain and De Line have both recently served on the PGA national board.
Allain will become the first woman of color to serve as president of the guild. She has produced films including “Hustle & Flow,” “Black Snake Moan,” “Beyond the Lights” and “Dear White People.” In 2020, she co-produced the Academy Awards and received the PGA/UCLA Vision Award for her work championing diverse filmmakers. She is also a former director of the L.A. Film Festival.
De Line’s producing credits include “Ready Player One,” “The Italian Job” and the Epix TV series “Billy the Kid.” Early in his career, De Line served as president of Touchstone Pictures...
The pair ran unopposed, and will succeed Gail Berman and Lucy Fisher, who have led the organization since 2018. Allain and De Line have both recently served on the PGA national board.
Allain will become the first woman of color to serve as president of the guild. She has produced films including “Hustle & Flow,” “Black Snake Moan,” “Beyond the Lights” and “Dear White People.” In 2020, she co-produced the Academy Awards and received the PGA/UCLA Vision Award for her work championing diverse filmmakers. She is also a former director of the L.A. Film Festival.
De Line’s producing credits include “Ready Player One,” “The Italian Job” and the Epix TV series “Billy the Kid.” Early in his career, De Line served as president of Touchstone Pictures...
- 8/24/2022
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
The Producers Guild of America has a new pair of presidents: Stephanie Allain and Donald De Line.
After running unopposed, veteran producers Allain and De Line were elected to the top role at the trade organization, the PGA announced at their annual membership meeting on Tuesday. Producers and former studio executives Gail Berman and Lucy Fisher, who are stepping down this month, have led the organization since 2018.
Allain’s election marks the first time that a woman of color is leading the PGA, which advocates for producers and other members of the production team in film, television and new media.
“As proud members of the PGA for over twenty years, it’s a great privilege to serve as Presidents. Gail and Lucy’s excellent leadership has grown and strengthened the Guild, and we will build on their progress,” Allain and De Line said in a joint statement.
The Producers Guild of America has a new pair of presidents: Stephanie Allain and Donald De Line.
After running unopposed, veteran producers Allain and De Line were elected to the top role at the trade organization, the PGA announced at their annual membership meeting on Tuesday. Producers and former studio executives Gail Berman and Lucy Fisher, who are stepping down this month, have led the organization since 2018.
Allain’s election marks the first time that a woman of color is leading the PGA, which advocates for producers and other members of the production team in film, television and new media.
“As proud members of the PGA for over twenty years, it’s a great privilege to serve as Presidents. Gail and Lucy’s excellent leadership has grown and strengthened the Guild, and we will build on their progress,” Allain and De Line said in a joint statement.
- 8/24/2022
- by Katie Kilkenny
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Producers Guild of America (PGA) has elected new presidents Stephanie Allain and Donald De Line. The pair ran unopposed to assume the roles from Gail Berman and Lucy Fisher, who have served as the presidents of the organization since 2018, and their appointment was announced during the Guild’s annual memberships meeting.
Allain and De Line reacted to the news via a press statement, saying “As proud members of the PGA for over twenty years, it’s a great privilege to serve as Presidents. Gail and Lucy’s excellent leadership has grown and strengthened the Guild, and we will build on their progress.”
They added, “Along with [National Executive Director] Susan Sprung and her team, we will continue to educate the industry on the role of the producer, support producers’ efforts for fair and commensurate compensation and benefits, welcome and encourage a more diverse membership, and endeavor to attain broader healthcare coverage while...
Allain and De Line reacted to the news via a press statement, saying “As proud members of the PGA for over twenty years, it’s a great privilege to serve as Presidents. Gail and Lucy’s excellent leadership has grown and strengthened the Guild, and we will build on their progress.”
They added, “Along with [National Executive Director] Susan Sprung and her team, we will continue to educate the industry on the role of the producer, support producers’ efforts for fair and commensurate compensation and benefits, welcome and encourage a more diverse membership, and endeavor to attain broader healthcare coverage while...
- 8/24/2022
- by Marcus Jones
- Indiewire
Exclusive: UTA has expanded its relationship with multi-hyphenate Machine Gun Kelly, otherwise known as Colson Baker, and will now represent him worldwide in all areas. UTA will continue to help build on the artist’s impressive career across a range of business verticals, including film and television, among other areas.
In film and television, he acts under his real name Colson Baker. As Baker, stars in the upcoming feature film Taurus, which had its US premiere at this year’s Tribeca Film Festival following its global premiere at the Berlin Film Festival and the upcoming One Way with Kevin Bacon and Storm Reid. He also caught the eye of studio execs when he played, Tommy Lee in Netflix’s Motley Crue biopic The Dirt and appeared in two of Netflix’s 10 Most Watched films of all time (Bird Box and Project Power). His other credits include Cameron Crowe’s Roadies,...
In film and television, he acts under his real name Colson Baker. As Baker, stars in the upcoming feature film Taurus, which had its US premiere at this year’s Tribeca Film Festival following its global premiere at the Berlin Film Festival and the upcoming One Way with Kevin Bacon and Storm Reid. He also caught the eye of studio execs when he played, Tommy Lee in Netflix’s Motley Crue biopic The Dirt and appeared in two of Netflix’s 10 Most Watched films of all time (Bird Box and Project Power). His other credits include Cameron Crowe’s Roadies,...
- 8/5/2022
- by Justin Kroll
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
As an admirer of her work from Belle to Beyond the Lights to the “San Junipero” episode of Black Mirror, I look forward to eventually reviewing a new Gugu Mbatha-Raw television vehicle that doesn’t feel like a general waste of her incontestable charisma and dramatic depth.
It surely didn’t happen on Apple TV+’s The Morning Show, in which Mbatha-Raw was tremendous despite an offensively underwritten character. It didn’t happen with Disney+’s Loki, in which the underwriting was egregious, if not actually offensive. It didn’t happen with HBO Max’s The Girl Before, which at least offered Mbatha-Raw a substantive part, albeit one stuck in a padded and forgettable soapy thriller.
Place Apple TV+’s Surface much more in the latter category, so much so that it borders on an examination of how the superficial — or “surface,...
As an admirer of her work from Belle to Beyond the Lights to the “San Junipero” episode of Black Mirror, I look forward to eventually reviewing a new Gugu Mbatha-Raw television vehicle that doesn’t feel like a general waste of her incontestable charisma and dramatic depth.
It surely didn’t happen on Apple TV+’s The Morning Show, in which Mbatha-Raw was tremendous despite an offensively underwritten character. It didn’t happen with Disney+’s Loki, in which the underwriting was egregious, if not actually offensive. It didn’t happen with HBO Max’s The Girl Before, which at least offered Mbatha-Raw a substantive part, albeit one stuck in a padded and forgettable soapy thriller.
Place Apple TV+’s Surface much more in the latter category, so much so that it borders on an examination of how the superficial — or “surface,...
- 7/28/2022
- by Daniel Fienberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The 14 Oscar nominations Alex North received for his film scores between 1952 and 1985 make him one of the most-recognized composers in academy history, but also one of the most overlooked, as all of his outings were unsuccessful. He did, however, earn the organization’s esteem in 1986 as the recipient of an honorary Oscar – the first given to an artist in his music field. Now, the academy’s board of governors have chosen to fill in another blank space by making Diane Warren the first songwriter on their list of honorary awardees. After 13 unfortunate Best Original Song losses, the time has finally come for the perennial contender to have her day in the sun.
Along with Michael J. Fox, Euzhan Palcy, and Peter Weir, Warren is set to be honored at the upcoming 13th annual Governors Awards. The 65-year-old has earned this accolade because her “music and lyrics have magnified the emotional...
Along with Michael J. Fox, Euzhan Palcy, and Peter Weir, Warren is set to be honored at the upcoming 13th annual Governors Awards. The 65-year-old has earned this accolade because her “music and lyrics have magnified the emotional...
- 6/29/2022
- by Matthew Stewart
- Gold Derby
Exclusive: Simon Pegg (Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning – Part One) and Minnie Driver (Rosaline) have signed on to star in Nandor Fodor and The Talking Mongoose, a dark comedy from writer-director Adam Sigal (Chariot), which has entered production in Leeds.
The film based on true events will follow Nandor Fodor (Pegg)—the Hungarian-American psychoanalyst, known as the father of parapsychology—on his search to discover the real Talking Mongoose, “Gef.” Driver will play Fodor’s assistant Anne, who journeys with him into uncharted territory, with Tim Downie (Good Omens), Ruth Connell (Supernatural), Paul Kaye (Game of Thrones), Gary Beadle (In the Heart of the Sea) and Drew Moerlin (V/H/S) rounding out the cast.
Sasha Yelaun and Dominic Burns are producing alongside Karl Hall and Matt Willians for Future Artists Entertainment. The fan-owned entertainment company Legion M, Tip-Top Productions, Chelsea Newell, James Di Giacomo, Danny Bohnen, Rob McGillivray and Ben Stranahan...
The film based on true events will follow Nandor Fodor (Pegg)—the Hungarian-American psychoanalyst, known as the father of parapsychology—on his search to discover the real Talking Mongoose, “Gef.” Driver will play Fodor’s assistant Anne, who journeys with him into uncharted territory, with Tim Downie (Good Omens), Ruth Connell (Supernatural), Paul Kaye (Game of Thrones), Gary Beadle (In the Heart of the Sea) and Drew Moerlin (V/H/S) rounding out the cast.
Sasha Yelaun and Dominic Burns are producing alongside Karl Hall and Matt Willians for Future Artists Entertainment. The fan-owned entertainment company Legion M, Tip-Top Productions, Chelsea Newell, James Di Giacomo, Danny Bohnen, Rob McGillivray and Ben Stranahan...
- 5/9/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: HBO is developing Sula, a limited series based on the novel by Pulitzer Prize and Nobel Prize winner Toni Morrison’s novel. The project comes from writer Shannon M. Houston (Station Eleven), who has an overall deal at HBO, and Stephanie Allain’s Homegrown Pictures, under the company’s first-look deal with Warner Bros. Television Group and HBO.
Created and written by Houston based on the novel, Sula tracks the lives of two Black heroines from their close-knit childhood in a small Ohio neighborhood called The Bottom, through their sharply divergent paths of womanhood. Nel Wright has chosen to marry, raise a family and become a pillar of the Black community. Sula Peace has rejected the life Nel has embraced, escaping from The Bottom, submerging herself in city life, and coming into her own as a woman more intellectually and sexually free than anyone around her. Eventually, Sula and...
Created and written by Houston based on the novel, Sula tracks the lives of two Black heroines from their close-knit childhood in a small Ohio neighborhood called The Bottom, through their sharply divergent paths of womanhood. Nel Wright has chosen to marry, raise a family and become a pillar of the Black community. Sula Peace has rejected the life Nel has embraced, escaping from The Bottom, submerging herself in city life, and coming into her own as a woman more intellectually and sexually free than anyone around her. Eventually, Sula and...
- 5/9/2022
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Emmy-nominated producer Stephanie Allain has signed a new first-look deal with Warner Bros. Television Group and HBO. The new agreement continues Allain’s relationship with the Studio, where she and her Homegrown Pictures production company has been under a first-look pact since February 2020. Allain and her Homegrown Pictures team, including Director of Development Gabrielle Ebron, will develop original scripted programming to be produced by Warner Bros. Television for HBO and HBO Max, external streaming services, cable, and broadcast.
Financial terms were not disclosed, but both Wbtvg and HBO confirm it is a multi-year deal.
Allain produced the 2020 Academy Awards alongside Lynette Howell Taylor, making history as the first African American woman in the Academy’s 92-year history to do so. She received an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Variety Special (Live) for her work on the Oscars.
Allain founded female-led Homegrown Pictures in 2003, a company which produces content by and about women and people of color.
Financial terms were not disclosed, but both Wbtvg and HBO confirm it is a multi-year deal.
Allain produced the 2020 Academy Awards alongside Lynette Howell Taylor, making history as the first African American woman in the Academy’s 92-year history to do so. She received an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Variety Special (Live) for her work on the Oscars.
Allain founded female-led Homegrown Pictures in 2003, a company which produces content by and about women and people of color.
- 3/14/2022
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Warner Bros. Television Group and HBO have sealed a new first-look deal with producer Stephanie Allain (“Dear White People”) and her Homegrown Pictures banner. Allain already held a first-look pact with the studio, which she sealed in February 2020; this extends that relationship and includes a partnership with HBO.
Under the multi-year deal, Allain and her Homegrown Pictures team (which includes director of development Gabrielle Ebron) will develop original scripted programming for HBO and HBO Max, as well as other streaming services, cable and broadcast outlets. Warner Bros. Television will produce those projects.
Allain’s credits include producing the 2020 Oscars, alongside Lynette Howell Taylor. Allain was nominated for an Emmy Award, in the outstanding variety special (live) category. She also made history as the first African American woman in history to produce the Academy Awards.
Homegrown Pictures was founded by Allain in 2003; its credits include “Hustle & Flow,” “Something New,” “Peeples,...
Under the multi-year deal, Allain and her Homegrown Pictures team (which includes director of development Gabrielle Ebron) will develop original scripted programming for HBO and HBO Max, as well as other streaming services, cable and broadcast outlets. Warner Bros. Television will produce those projects.
Allain’s credits include producing the 2020 Oscars, alongside Lynette Howell Taylor. Allain was nominated for an Emmy Award, in the outstanding variety special (live) category. She also made history as the first African American woman in history to produce the Academy Awards.
Homegrown Pictures was founded by Allain in 2003; its credits include “Hustle & Flow,” “Something New,” “Peeples,...
- 3/14/2022
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Diane Warren today landed her 13th Oscar nomination for her original song “Somehow You Do,” from Vertical Entertainment’s film, Four Good Days.
Warren’s latest nomination for the song performed by Reba McEntire is her fifth in as many years. Her most recent noms came for the songs “Io Si (Seen)” from Netflix’s The Life Ahead, co-written by Laura Pausini; “I’m Standing With You” from Twentieth Century Fox’s Breakthrough; “I’ll Fight” from Magnolia Pictures’ Rbg; and “Stand Up for Something” from Open Road Films’ Marshall, co-written by Common.
While the prolific songwriter has also previously been recognized for the tunes “Til It Happens to You” from The Hunting Ground, “Grateful” from Beyond the Lights, “There You’ll Be” from Pearl Harbor, “Music Of My Heart” from Music of the Heart, “I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing” from Armageddon, “How Do I Live” from Con Air,...
Warren’s latest nomination for the song performed by Reba McEntire is her fifth in as many years. Her most recent noms came for the songs “Io Si (Seen)” from Netflix’s The Life Ahead, co-written by Laura Pausini; “I’m Standing With You” from Twentieth Century Fox’s Breakthrough; “I’ll Fight” from Magnolia Pictures’ Rbg; and “Stand Up for Something” from Open Road Films’ Marshall, co-written by Common.
While the prolific songwriter has also previously been recognized for the tunes “Til It Happens to You” from The Hunting Ground, “Grateful” from Beyond the Lights, “There You’ll Be” from Pearl Harbor, “Music Of My Heart” from Music of the Heart, “I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing” from Armageddon, “How Do I Live” from Con Air,...
- 2/8/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
TriStar Pictures has unveiled first-look photos from The Woman King, the historical epic directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood (The Old Guard, Beyond the Lights) that is hitting theaters on September 16.
The film is inspired by true events that took place in The Kingdom of Dahomey, one of the most powerful states of Africa in the 18th and 19th centuries. Its story follows Nanisca (Viola Davis), General of the all-female military unit, and Nawi (Thuso Mbedu), an ambitious recruit, who together fought enemies who violated their honor, enslaved their people, and threatened to destroy everything they’ve lived for.
The Woman King also stars Lashana Lynch, John Boyega, Adrienne Warren, Sheila Atim, Jayme Lawson and Hero Fiennes Tiffin. Prince-Bythewood penned the final draft of the script with Dana Stevens, who also wrote the original. Davis produced the pic with Cathy Schulman, Julius Tennon and Maria Bello.
eOne co-financed and is handling distribution...
The film is inspired by true events that took place in The Kingdom of Dahomey, one of the most powerful states of Africa in the 18th and 19th centuries. Its story follows Nanisca (Viola Davis), General of the all-female military unit, and Nawi (Thuso Mbedu), an ambitious recruit, who together fought enemies who violated their honor, enslaved their people, and threatened to destroy everything they’ve lived for.
The Woman King also stars Lashana Lynch, John Boyega, Adrienne Warren, Sheila Atim, Jayme Lawson and Hero Fiennes Tiffin. Prince-Bythewood penned the final draft of the script with Dana Stevens, who also wrote the original. Davis produced the pic with Cathy Schulman, Julius Tennon and Maria Bello.
eOne co-financed and is handling distribution...
- 2/1/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
“What I love to do is go to the video and look at the comments,” acclaimed songwriter Diane Warren admits about reading feedback about her songs on social media. “The comments are mind-blowing,” she exclaims.
“There’s a lot of comments,” she says, from people at “the end of their rope, where the song gave them hope and made them stronger. There’s thousands and thousands,” she sighs. “One night I just stayed up almost all night, reading them and I was crying. The fact that I wrote the song for this movie, sitting in my room and somehow it got through to people going through a hard time, it’s just crazy.”
We talked with Warren as part of Gold Derby’s special film songwriters “Meet the Experts” Q&a event with key Oscar contenders. Watch our exclusive video interview above.
See Gold Derby interviews with 2022 Oscar contenders
“Four Good Days...
“There’s a lot of comments,” she says, from people at “the end of their rope, where the song gave them hope and made them stronger. There’s thousands and thousands,” she sighs. “One night I just stayed up almost all night, reading them and I was crying. The fact that I wrote the song for this movie, sitting in my room and somehow it got through to people going through a hard time, it’s just crazy.”
We talked with Warren as part of Gold Derby’s special film songwriters “Meet the Experts” Q&a event with key Oscar contenders. Watch our exclusive video interview above.
See Gold Derby interviews with 2022 Oscar contenders
“Four Good Days...
- 1/21/2022
- by Rob Licuria
- Gold Derby
Bop it, twist it…break it? Machine Gun Kelly treated TikTok users to an extra special gift on Dec. 28 when he shared a clip of himself alongside girlfriend Megan Fox in front of their Christmas tree. In the video, the rapper, 31, showed off his instructional skills by playing with their "Bop It" toy—shoutout to the '90s—before making one final move—bopping it against his side—ending it all. And once the Beyond the Lights actor did just that (a piece of the toy literally went flying), a child's voice is heard hilariously in the background, saying, "You broke it!" As a refresher, Megan, 35, is a mom of three sons with ex...
- 12/29/2021
- E! Online
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has postponed the 12th annual Governors Awards ceremony as Covid-19 cases surge.
“We have made the difficult decision to change our plans in hosting the Governors Awards in person on January 15,” an Academy spokesperson said in a statement on Wednesday. “Given the uncertainties around the variants, and the impact this could have on our community, we feel this is the best and safest decision for our honorees and guests. Rescheduled plans will come at a later date as we continue to prioritize the health and wellbeing of all those involved.”
A new date has not been announced yet.
The Academy was set to fete Samuel L. Jackson, Elaine May and Liv Ullmann with honorary Oscars, and Danny Glover with the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award at an in-person event on Jan. 15, 2022. The ceremony is the latest event planned for early 2022 to face major...
“We have made the difficult decision to change our plans in hosting the Governors Awards in person on January 15,” an Academy spokesperson said in a statement on Wednesday. “Given the uncertainties around the variants, and the impact this could have on our community, we feel this is the best and safest decision for our honorees and guests. Rescheduled plans will come at a later date as we continue to prioritize the health and wellbeing of all those involved.”
A new date has not been announced yet.
The Academy was set to fete Samuel L. Jackson, Elaine May and Liv Ullmann with honorary Oscars, and Danny Glover with the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award at an in-person event on Jan. 15, 2022. The ceremony is the latest event planned for early 2022 to face major...
- 12/22/2021
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Editor’s note: British director Roger Michell died this week at the age of 65. Here, Sony Pictures Classics co-president Michael Barker, who distributed several of Michell’s films — including the upcoming “The Duke” — remembers his colleague.
Life stopped for many of us this week when writer/director Roger Michell passed away suddenly at the age of 65. He was a gentle, warm, soft-spoken, eloquent, witty, beautiful human being, in addition to being a strong, uncompromising artist of range and brilliance.
Only three weeks ago, he was in Telluride with us accompanied by Helen Mirren and producer Nicky Bentham to present his latest wonderfully rich picture, “The Duke.” He was seen zipping up and down the streets of Telluride on his rented bicycle, his fifth time there (three of them with us), introducing his film, enjoying the company of locals whose friendships he had continued with each visit, at dinners trading legendary...
Life stopped for many of us this week when writer/director Roger Michell passed away suddenly at the age of 65. He was a gentle, warm, soft-spoken, eloquent, witty, beautiful human being, in addition to being a strong, uncompromising artist of range and brilliance.
Only three weeks ago, he was in Telluride with us accompanied by Helen Mirren and producer Nicky Bentham to present his latest wonderfully rich picture, “The Duke.” He was seen zipping up and down the streets of Telluride on his rented bicycle, his fifth time there (three of them with us), introducing his film, enjoying the company of locals whose friendships he had continued with each visit, at dinners trading legendary...
- 9/25/2021
- by Michael Barker
- Indiewire
Exclusive: Fox Entertainment’s free streaming service, Tubi, has set Camilla Belle to star in the romantic comedy feature 10 Truths About Love.
She’ll play Carina, a relationship columnist for whom, despite her professional expertise, love does not come easy. The movie also stars David Lafontaine (Molly’s Game) as Liam, Belle’s love interest.
“We are delighted to have Camilla Belle star in our Tubi Original Movie for Valentine’s Day,” said Adam Lewinson, Chief Content Officer at Tubi. “Camilla’s charismatic performance is perfectly paired with the charming screenplay for 10 Truths About Love, and we’re so pleased that this movie will anchor our Valentine’s programming event with thousands of bingeable romantic titles.”
10 Truths About Love also stars Sebastian Marziali (Party Mamas), David Keeley (Warehouse 13), Kelsey Verzotti (Top 10 Dorothy), Paula Rivera (Impulse), Maya Cieszynska (And He Was Gone), Karn Kalra (The Dictator’s Playbook), Robert Ifedi (Self Made:...
She’ll play Carina, a relationship columnist for whom, despite her professional expertise, love does not come easy. The movie also stars David Lafontaine (Molly’s Game) as Liam, Belle’s love interest.
“We are delighted to have Camilla Belle star in our Tubi Original Movie for Valentine’s Day,” said Adam Lewinson, Chief Content Officer at Tubi. “Camilla’s charismatic performance is perfectly paired with the charming screenplay for 10 Truths About Love, and we’re so pleased that this movie will anchor our Valentine’s programming event with thousands of bingeable romantic titles.”
10 Truths About Love also stars Sebastian Marziali (Party Mamas), David Keeley (Warehouse 13), Kelsey Verzotti (Top 10 Dorothy), Paula Rivera (Impulse), Maya Cieszynska (And He Was Gone), Karn Kalra (The Dictator’s Playbook), Robert Ifedi (Self Made:...
- 9/23/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Roger Michell, the director best known for films like “Notting Hill” and “Venus,” has died. He was 65.
Michell died on Wednesday, and his death was announced Thursday by his publicist to the UK Press Association (via The Guardian). No cause of death was given.
“It is with great sadness that the family of Roger Michell, director, writer and father of Harry, Rosie, Maggie and Sparrow, announce his death at the age of 65 on September 22,” his publicist said.
Some of Michell’s other more recent films include “Blackbird,” “My Cousin Rachel” and “The Duke,” a drama starring Jim Broadbent and Helen Mirren that premiered at the 2020 virtual Venice Film Festival and is due in U.S. theaters later this year. The British director also won two BAFTAs for his work in television.
Michell’s 1999 film “Notting Hill,” just his third feature, starred Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant and was a romantic...
Michell died on Wednesday, and his death was announced Thursday by his publicist to the UK Press Association (via The Guardian). No cause of death was given.
“It is with great sadness that the family of Roger Michell, director, writer and father of Harry, Rosie, Maggie and Sparrow, announce his death at the age of 65 on September 22,” his publicist said.
Some of Michell’s other more recent films include “Blackbird,” “My Cousin Rachel” and “The Duke,” a drama starring Jim Broadbent and Helen Mirren that premiered at the 2020 virtual Venice Film Festival and is due in U.S. theaters later this year. The British director also won two BAFTAs for his work in television.
Michell’s 1999 film “Notting Hill,” just his third feature, starred Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant and was a romantic...
- 9/23/2021
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Samuel L. Jackson, Elaine May and Liv Ullmann will receive honorary Oscars this year, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced Thursday. Danny Glover will also receive the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award. The four Oscar statuettes will be presented at the Governors Awards ceremony on Jan. 15, 2022.
“We are thrilled to present this year’s Governors Awards to four honorees who have had a profound impact on both film and society,” Academy president David Rubin said in a statement. “Sam Jackson is a cultural icon whose dynamic work has resonated across genres and generations and audiences worldwide, while Elaine May’s bold, uncompromising approach to filmmaking, as a writer, director and actress, reverberates as loudly as ever with movie lovers. Liv Ullmann’s bravery and emotional transparency has gifted audiences with deeply affecting screen portrayals, and Danny Glover’s decades-long advocacy for justice and human rights reflects his dedication...
“We are thrilled to present this year’s Governors Awards to four honorees who have had a profound impact on both film and society,” Academy president David Rubin said in a statement. “Sam Jackson is a cultural icon whose dynamic work has resonated across genres and generations and audiences worldwide, while Elaine May’s bold, uncompromising approach to filmmaking, as a writer, director and actress, reverberates as loudly as ever with movie lovers. Liv Ullmann’s bravery and emotional transparency has gifted audiences with deeply affecting screen portrayals, and Danny Glover’s decades-long advocacy for justice and human rights reflects his dedication...
- 6/24/2021
- by Antonio Ferme
- Variety Film + TV
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced Thursday that its Board of Governors voted to present the annual Honorary Awards to Samuel L. Jackson, Elaine May, and Liv Ullmann. The Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award will be given to Danny Glover. The four Oscar statuettes will be presented at the Academy’s 12th annual Governors Awards on Saturday, January 15, 2022, in Los Angeles.
Academy President David Rubin summed up the recipients’ impact, cinematic and otherwise, in the following statement: “Sam Jackson is a cultural icon whose dynamic work has resonated across genres and generations and audiences worldwide, while Elaine May’s bold, uncompromising approach to filmmaking, as a writer, director and actress, reverberates as loudly as ever with movie lovers.”
Rubin added, “Liv Ullmann’s bravery and emotional transparency has gifted audiences with deeply affecting screen portrayals, and Danny Glover’s decades-long advocacy for justice and human rights reflects his...
Academy President David Rubin summed up the recipients’ impact, cinematic and otherwise, in the following statement: “Sam Jackson is a cultural icon whose dynamic work has resonated across genres and generations and audiences worldwide, while Elaine May’s bold, uncompromising approach to filmmaking, as a writer, director and actress, reverberates as loudly as ever with movie lovers.”
Rubin added, “Liv Ullmann’s bravery and emotional transparency has gifted audiences with deeply affecting screen portrayals, and Danny Glover’s decades-long advocacy for justice and human rights reflects his...
- 6/24/2021
- by Ryan Lattanzio
- Indiewire
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Board of Governors voted to present Honorary Oscars to Samuel L. Jackson, Elaine May and Liv Ullmann, and the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award to Danny Glover, the Academy announced on Thursday.
The four Honorary Oscars will be presented at the Academy’s 12th Governors Awards on Saturday, Jan. 15, 2022, in Los Angeles.
“We are thrilled to present this year’s Governors Awards to four honorees who have had a profound impact on both film and society,” Academy president David Rubin said in a statement. “Sam Jackson is a cultural icon whose dynamic work has resonated across genres and generations and audiences worldwide, while Elaine May’s bold, uncompromising approach to filmmaking, as a writer, director and actress, reverberates as loudly as ever with movie lovers. Liv Ullmann’s bravery and emotional transparency has gifted audiences with deeply affecting screen portrayals, and Danny Glover...
The four Honorary Oscars will be presented at the Academy’s 12th Governors Awards on Saturday, Jan. 15, 2022, in Los Angeles.
“We are thrilled to present this year’s Governors Awards to four honorees who have had a profound impact on both film and society,” Academy president David Rubin said in a statement. “Sam Jackson is a cultural icon whose dynamic work has resonated across genres and generations and audiences worldwide, while Elaine May’s bold, uncompromising approach to filmmaking, as a writer, director and actress, reverberates as loudly as ever with movie lovers. Liv Ullmann’s bravery and emotional transparency has gifted audiences with deeply affecting screen portrayals, and Danny Glover...
- 6/24/2021
- by Umberto Gonzalez
- The Wrap
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