In just three months, Jonathan Majors has garnered widespread praise for his Sundance premiere “Magazine Dreams” and pulled off a rare box office feat, but his career’s ascent shows no signs of peaking any time soon. Only days after “Creed III” posted a $58 million opening weekend, a record for both the “Rocky” franchise and sports movies at large, and earned Majors the distinction of starring in consecutive top earners –“Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” won the weekends leading up to “Creed’s” March 3 release – news broke that the in-demand actor is signing up for not one, but two high-profile projects: “Da Understudy,” a story of backstage obsession and jealousy on Broadway that’s eyeing Spike Lee to direct, and “48 Hours in Vegas,” a dramatization of Dennis Rodman’s sojourn in Sin City during the 1998 Bulls season.
This infamous, stranger-than-fiction bit of Chicago sports history should be familiar to...
This infamous, stranger-than-fiction bit of Chicago sports history should be familiar to...
- 3/10/2023
- by Ronald Meyer
- Gold Derby
“Creed 3” star Jonathan Majors is set to star in and produce “Da Understudy” from Westbrook Studios, now in development at Amazon Studios.
Spike Lee is in early talks to direct, according to an insider with knowledge of the project.
Majors will produce the feature under his Tall Street Productions umbrella. Amazon Studios landed the script on spec in a competitive situation.
Also Read:
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Tom Hanada, Zach Strauss (“Smilf”) and Tyler Cole wrote the screenplay, which is based on an original story by Cole that was developed in-house by Westbrook.
“Da Understudy” tells the story of life imitating art when the understudy of a Broadway production finds a role he’s willing to kill for.
The news comes on the heels of the massive, record-breaking weekend for “Creed 3,” which became the biggest opening for a sports film in...
Spike Lee is in early talks to direct, according to an insider with knowledge of the project.
Majors will produce the feature under his Tall Street Productions umbrella. Amazon Studios landed the script on spec in a competitive situation.
Also Read:
Ari Emanuel’s Endeavor Group Invested in Elon Musk’s Twitter 2.0
Tom Hanada, Zach Strauss (“Smilf”) and Tyler Cole wrote the screenplay, which is based on an original story by Cole that was developed in-house by Westbrook.
“Da Understudy” tells the story of life imitating art when the understudy of a Broadway production finds a role he’s willing to kill for.
The news comes on the heels of the massive, record-breaking weekend for “Creed 3,” which became the biggest opening for a sports film in...
- 3/7/2023
- by Umberto Gonzalez
- The Wrap
New Release Wall
“John Wick” 1 – 3 Stash Book Collection (Lionsgate): As the Keanu Reeves-loving world awaits the March release of “John Wick: Chapter 4,” superfans get an early gift with this box set of the first three films — in which the titular hit man Wick annihilates bad people for good reasons — in 4K Ultra HD. The three individual films arrive in steelbooks emblazoned with details specific to them, which in turn fit into a replica of Wick’s “stash book.” In other words, fans of excessive violence now get to house their preciouses in a cozy little death-house, and that’s adorable.
Also available:
“Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” (Marvel): After the death of King T’Challa, the grieving citizens of Wakanda — including Queen Ramonda, Shuri, M’Baku and the Dora Milaje — fight to protect it from outside forces.
“Detective Knight: Independence” (Lionsgate): The final chapter of the...
“John Wick” 1 – 3 Stash Book Collection (Lionsgate): As the Keanu Reeves-loving world awaits the March release of “John Wick: Chapter 4,” superfans get an early gift with this box set of the first three films — in which the titular hit man Wick annihilates bad people for good reasons — in 4K Ultra HD. The three individual films arrive in steelbooks emblazoned with details specific to them, which in turn fit into a replica of Wick’s “stash book.” In other words, fans of excessive violence now get to house their preciouses in a cozy little death-house, and that’s adorable.
Also available:
“Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” (Marvel): After the death of King T’Challa, the grieving citizens of Wakanda — including Queen Ramonda, Shuri, M’Baku and the Dora Milaje — fight to protect it from outside forces.
“Detective Knight: Independence” (Lionsgate): The final chapter of the...
- 2/20/2023
- by Alonso Duralde
- The Wrap
Black Reel Awards nominee Jonathan Majors recently chatted with Gold Derby’s Denton Davidson about Sony Pictures Releasing’s biographical film “Devotion.” He takes on the role of a real-life person, Ensign Jesse Brown, the first Black naval officer in the 1950s, alongside Glen Powell as Lieutenant Junior Grade Tom Hudner. “When I read the script, I was just bowled over by how heroic he was in battle and outside of battle,” he explains.
Majors discusses the depth of inspiration, improving from his own experiences, and having to partake in flight school for the blockbuster hit. Currently, the actor can be seen in theaters as Kang the Conqueror in Marvel’s “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” and his next project will be as Damian Anderson in “Creed III.” He received a Best Drama Actor Emmy nomination in 2021 for “Lovecraft Country.”
Watch the full video above and read the complete interview transcript below.
Majors discusses the depth of inspiration, improving from his own experiences, and having to partake in flight school for the blockbuster hit. Currently, the actor can be seen in theaters as Kang the Conqueror in Marvel’s “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” and his next project will be as Damian Anderson in “Creed III.” He received a Best Drama Actor Emmy nomination in 2021 for “Lovecraft Country.”
Watch the full video above and read the complete interview transcript below.
- 2/16/2023
- by Latasha Ford and Marcus James Dixon
- Gold Derby
It’s been three years since cinephiles have made their otherwise annual pilgrimage to the Eccles Theater, but the Sundance Film Festival is back! Anyone who doesn’t want to brave Park City temperatures from January 19 – 29, though, can fest online. While a few high-profile releases are being shown exclusively to in-person attendees—Brandon Cronenberg’s “Infinity Pool” and Nicole Holofcener’s “You Hurt My Feelings,” for example—this year’s virtual lineup still features lots of star power and even an Oscar contender for Best International Feature. Single film online tickets can be purchased here.
See over 200 interviews with 2023 awards contenders
“Magazine Dreams”
Following up his acclaimed turn as the first African-American naval pilot Jesse Brown in J.D. Dillard’s “Devotion” with two blockbuster roles (“Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” and “Creed III”) and a potential indie breakout that’s premiering at the festival, Jonathan Majors is having a moment.
See over 200 interviews with 2023 awards contenders
“Magazine Dreams”
Following up his acclaimed turn as the first African-American naval pilot Jesse Brown in J.D. Dillard’s “Devotion” with two blockbuster roles (“Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” and “Creed III”) and a potential indie breakout that’s premiering at the festival, Jonathan Majors is having a moment.
- 1/18/2023
- by Ronald Meyer
- Gold Derby
Composer Chanda Dancy had roughly two months to create more than four hours of orchestra music for The Defeated, the Netflix series about life in Berlin following World War II.
She recorded with an 85-piece orchestra in Prague as well as solo elements in her studio in Pasadena. She crafted music of that time but added modern sensibilities. She mixed the sound of a grand, sweeping orchestra with synthesizers and elements of Edm.
And she met that incredibly short deadline.
“This was essentially like being asked to swim from Los Angeles to Japan,” Dancy tells The Hollywood Reporter. “Me not knowing how long that distance is — I was like, ‘I can do that in a couple hours. I’m a good swimmer.’ It really didn’t sink in until I was done, honestly.”
“It was wild. I didn’t see my son for a month. I had my parents drive...
She recorded with an 85-piece orchestra in Prague as well as solo elements in her studio in Pasadena. She crafted music of that time but added modern sensibilities. She mixed the sound of a grand, sweeping orchestra with synthesizers and elements of Edm.
And she met that incredibly short deadline.
“This was essentially like being asked to swim from Los Angeles to Japan,” Dancy tells The Hollywood Reporter. “Me not knowing how long that distance is — I was like, ‘I can do that in a couple hours. I’m a good swimmer.’ It really didn’t sink in until I was done, honestly.”
“It was wild. I didn’t see my son for a month. I had my parents drive...
- 1/13/2023
- by Mesfin Fekadu
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
When people talk about fighter pilot movies from the past year, many will probably think about “Top Gun: Maverick.” And though that film is great, there’s another fighter pilot film out now that might actually be, dare I say, better? That movie is “Devotion,” directed by J.D. Dillard. And in this episode of The Playlist Podcast, I got the chance to talk to Dillard about his new film and working with breakout superstar Jonathan Majors.
Read More: ‘Devotion’ Review: Jonathan Majors Thrives In A Biopic That’s A Cut Above The Rest [TIFF]
For those unaware, “Devotion” stars Jonathan Majors and Glen Powell and tells the inspiring true story of Jesse Brown, a Black fighter pilot in the ’50s at the onset of the Korean War.
Continue reading J.D. Dillard Talks ‘Devotion,’ The Greatness Of Jonathan Majors, Franchise Filmmaking & More [The Playlist Podcast] at The Playlist.
Read More: ‘Devotion’ Review: Jonathan Majors Thrives In A Biopic That’s A Cut Above The Rest [TIFF]
For those unaware, “Devotion” stars Jonathan Majors and Glen Powell and tells the inspiring true story of Jesse Brown, a Black fighter pilot in the ’50s at the onset of the Korean War.
Continue reading J.D. Dillard Talks ‘Devotion,’ The Greatness Of Jonathan Majors, Franchise Filmmaking & More [The Playlist Podcast] at The Playlist.
- 1/13/2023
- by Charles Barfield
- The Playlist
Each week we highlight the noteworthy titles that have recently hit streaming platforms in the United States. Check out this week’s selections below and past round-ups here.
2nd Chance (Ramin Bahrani)
It’s an eerie image. Richard Davis stands out in a field, wearing a kevlar vest, and points a pistol into his belly. Then he pulls the trigger, skips back a bit, and checks his red-burned skin. Over the course of his life, he would do this—shoot himself—192 times, proving the efficacy of his life-saving device in the most visceral and operatic way possible. “A lot of people think I’m stupid for doing this,” he tells the camera before one of these high-wire demonstrations, and for just a moment, an air of unpredictability hangs over this bullet-proof vest magnate’s next move. – Jake K. (full review)
Where to Stream: VOD
Devotion (J.D. Dillard)
Devotion adheres to...
2nd Chance (Ramin Bahrani)
It’s an eerie image. Richard Davis stands out in a field, wearing a kevlar vest, and points a pistol into his belly. Then he pulls the trigger, skips back a bit, and checks his red-burned skin. Over the course of his life, he would do this—shoot himself—192 times, proving the efficacy of his life-saving device in the most visceral and operatic way possible. “A lot of people think I’m stupid for doing this,” he tells the camera before one of these high-wire demonstrations, and for just a moment, an air of unpredictability hangs over this bullet-proof vest magnate’s next move. – Jake K. (full review)
Where to Stream: VOD
Devotion (J.D. Dillard)
Devotion adheres to...
- 1/13/2023
- by Jordan Raup
- The Film Stage
Every actor has their own process for finding and embodying a character, and it is always a challenge — even if, in the case of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever star Angela Bassett, the actor is playing that character for a second time. Bassett and three other awards contenders this season — including Armageddon Time‘s Anne Hathaway, The Fabelmans‘ Gabriel Labelle and Devotion‘s Jonathan Majors — spoke with The Hollywood Reporter about their approaches to their respective characters.
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever‘s Angela Bassett explains how costumes by Oscar-winning designer Ruth E. Carter helps her get into character as Queen Ramonda:
In [the first] Black Panther, some of my costumes were a little simpler — a lot simpler — than in this one. Mother is very proud of her kids — very proud of her son, the king, and the way he comports himself; of her daughter. She’s in a more advisory, sage role, there...
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever‘s Angela Bassett explains how costumes by Oscar-winning designer Ruth E. Carter helps her get into character as Queen Ramonda:
In [the first] Black Panther, some of my costumes were a little simpler — a lot simpler — than in this one. Mother is very proud of her kids — very proud of her son, the king, and the way he comports himself; of her daughter. She’s in a more advisory, sage role, there...
- 1/11/2023
- by Tyler Coates
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Devotion is a film directed by J.D. Dillard starring Jonathan Majors and Glen Powell.
This is a movie that delivers what it promises, no more and no less, and does just enough (or even a little less) in the story department and ferociously and devotedly hangs onto the technical department of recreation and, above all, the action scenes.
Premise
During the Fifties, in the Cold War times, two very different pilots will be forced to fight the enemy and test their friendship in combat.
About the Movie Devotion (2022)
Devotion is one of those movies about heroes in a war with all against each other, all the clichés we can find in this genre applied to a historic recreation that is technically brilliant, but loses power because of its simple screenplay with barely any depth to it and which bases its strength on the excellent scenes of fighter pilot aircraft in combat.
This is a movie that delivers what it promises, no more and no less, and does just enough (or even a little less) in the story department and ferociously and devotedly hangs onto the technical department of recreation and, above all, the action scenes.
Premise
During the Fifties, in the Cold War times, two very different pilots will be forced to fight the enemy and test their friendship in combat.
About the Movie Devotion (2022)
Devotion is one of those movies about heroes in a war with all against each other, all the clichés we can find in this genre applied to a historic recreation that is technically brilliant, but loses power because of its simple screenplay with barely any depth to it and which bases its strength on the excellent scenes of fighter pilot aircraft in combat.
- 1/8/2023
- by Martin Cid
- Martin Cid Magazine - Movies
Devotion streaming on Paramount + beginning January 8, 2023. Credit: Sony Pictures Entertainment/Paramount +
Buy On Digital January 8, 2023 With Never-before-seen Bonus Content Watch The Film On Paramount+ January 8, 2023
Paramount+ and Paramount Home Entertainment have announced that the epic and inspirational true story Devotion will be available to stream on Paramount+ and will be available to purchase on Digital beginning Sunday, Jan. 8 in the U.S. and Canada.
Directed by Jd Dillard, Jonathan Majors (“Creed III”) and Glen Powell (Top Gun: Maverick) star in the true story of two elite U.S. Navy fighter pilots who helped turn the tide in the most brutal battle in the Korean War: Jesse Brown, the first Black aviator in Navy history and his fellow fighter pilot and friend, Tom Hudner. Their heroic sacrifices and enduring friendship would ultimately make them the Navy’s most celebrated wingmen. Additional cast include Christina Jackson (“Swagger”), Thomas Sadoski (“The Newsroom”) and Joe Jonas.
Buy On Digital January 8, 2023 With Never-before-seen Bonus Content Watch The Film On Paramount+ January 8, 2023
Paramount+ and Paramount Home Entertainment have announced that the epic and inspirational true story Devotion will be available to stream on Paramount+ and will be available to purchase on Digital beginning Sunday, Jan. 8 in the U.S. and Canada.
Directed by Jd Dillard, Jonathan Majors (“Creed III”) and Glen Powell (Top Gun: Maverick) star in the true story of two elite U.S. Navy fighter pilots who helped turn the tide in the most brutal battle in the Korean War: Jesse Brown, the first Black aviator in Navy history and his fellow fighter pilot and friend, Tom Hudner. Their heroic sacrifices and enduring friendship would ultimately make them the Navy’s most celebrated wingmen. Additional cast include Christina Jackson (“Swagger”), Thomas Sadoski (“The Newsroom”) and Joe Jonas.
- 1/5/2023
- by Movie Geeks
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
With Oscar nominations less than a month away from their January 24 announcement, the Best Actor race is still unsettled. Three names — Brendan Fraser (“The Whale”), Colin Farrell (“The Banshees of Inisherin”) and Austin Butler (“Elvis”) — appear to be locked in, but the category’s fourth and fifth slots are up for grabs. Tom Cruise (“Top Gun: Maverick”), whom Gold Derby’s combined odds place in fifth, has the advantage of starring in a top Best Picture contender, while Bill Nighy (“Living”), Paul Mescal (“Aftersun”), Hugh Jackman (“The Son”) and Jeremy Pope (“The Inspection”) are all vying for potential solo noms. Outside the top 10 but no less deserving of consideration is Jonathan Majors (“Devotion”), a rising talent on the verge of a career break in 2023.
See Jonathan Majors (‘Devotion’) on becoming U.S. Navy fighter pilot Jesse Brown: ‘I think I just played my hero’ [Exclusive Video Interview]
As the first African-American fighter pilot...
See Jonathan Majors (‘Devotion’) on becoming U.S. Navy fighter pilot Jesse Brown: ‘I think I just played my hero’ [Exclusive Video Interview]
As the first African-American fighter pilot...
- 1/5/2023
- by Ronald Meyer
- Gold Derby
A movie that somewhat flew under the radar (pun intended) this year is the war drama, Devotion. Jonathan Majors, whose star is on the rise with Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania coming out along with Creed III, shows his chops as the leading man in this historical air combat film that is based on a true story. Devotion is set to be available for purchase with never-before-seen bonus content on Digital in the U.S. and Canada as well as streaming on Paramount+ this January 8.
The official synopsis reads,
Directed by Jd Dillard, Jonathan Majors (“Creed III”) and Glen Powell (Top Gun: Maverick) star in the true story of two elite U.S. Navy fighter pilots who helped turn the tide in the most brutal battle in the Korean War: Jesse Brown, the first Black aviator in Navy history and his fellow fighter pilot and friend, Tom Hudner. Their heroic sacrifices...
The official synopsis reads,
Directed by Jd Dillard, Jonathan Majors (“Creed III”) and Glen Powell (Top Gun: Maverick) star in the true story of two elite U.S. Navy fighter pilots who helped turn the tide in the most brutal battle in the Korean War: Jesse Brown, the first Black aviator in Navy history and his fellow fighter pilot and friend, Tom Hudner. Their heroic sacrifices...
- 1/5/2023
- by EJ Tangonan
- JoBlo.com
By Abe Friedtanzer
While Top Gun: Maverick has been enjoying a warm reception from audiences and awards bodies alike, another film about daring pilots is flying around in theaters. Based on the 2015 nonfiction book Devotion: An Epic Story of Heroism, Friendship, and Sacrifice by Adam Makos, Devotion is about a powerful friendship between two Navy pilots during the Korean War. One of them is Jonathan Majors, the only Black member of the unit. In the film's other Top Gun: Maverick connection, the other one is played by Glen Powell, who portrays Hangman in the present-day film.
Devotion opens on Tom Hudner (Glen Powell) arriving to join Fighter Squadron 32, which already includes Jesse Brown (Majors), who faces routine racism from his fellow Navy officers and the neighbors who believe that his mere existence is stirring up trouble...
While Top Gun: Maverick has been enjoying a warm reception from audiences and awards bodies alike, another film about daring pilots is flying around in theaters. Based on the 2015 nonfiction book Devotion: An Epic Story of Heroism, Friendship, and Sacrifice by Adam Makos, Devotion is about a powerful friendship between two Navy pilots during the Korean War. One of them is Jonathan Majors, the only Black member of the unit. In the film's other Top Gun: Maverick connection, the other one is played by Glen Powell, who portrays Hangman in the present-day film.
Devotion opens on Tom Hudner (Glen Powell) arriving to join Fighter Squadron 32, which already includes Jesse Brown (Majors), who faces routine racism from his fellow Navy officers and the neighbors who believe that his mere existence is stirring up trouble...
- 12/30/2022
- by Abe Friedtanzer
- FilmExperience
Welcome to another episode of the Scene 2 Scene podcast! It’s Valerie Complex with an exciting new episode where I chat with Devotion director Jd Dillard.
Dillard has established himself as a director and writer to watch, with authentic yet innovative storytelling. On November 23, Sony Pictures released his anticipated historical war epic Devotion. he film stars Jonathan Majors and Glen Powell as Jesse Brown and Tom Hudner, respectively, a pair of U.S. Navy pilots who risked their lives during the Korean War and became some of the Navy’s most celebrated wingmen. The script is written by Jake Crane and Jonathan Stewart, based on the book by Adam Makos.
Dillard made his directorial debut with Sleight, starring Jacob Latimore, Seychelle Gabriel, Sasheer Zamata and Storm Reid. The film, which he co-wrote, was shot on a micro-budget and went on to spark a bidding war after its debut at Sundance in...
Dillard has established himself as a director and writer to watch, with authentic yet innovative storytelling. On November 23, Sony Pictures released his anticipated historical war epic Devotion. he film stars Jonathan Majors and Glen Powell as Jesse Brown and Tom Hudner, respectively, a pair of U.S. Navy pilots who risked their lives during the Korean War and became some of the Navy’s most celebrated wingmen. The script is written by Jake Crane and Jonathan Stewart, based on the book by Adam Makos.
Dillard made his directorial debut with Sleight, starring Jacob Latimore, Seychelle Gabriel, Sasheer Zamata and Storm Reid. The film, which he co-wrote, was shot on a micro-budget and went on to spark a bidding war after its debut at Sundance in...
- 12/29/2022
- by Valerie Complex
- Deadline Film + TV
The Utah-based Sundance Institute has announced the lineup for its annual film festival. A premier destination for debut directors, Sundance has launched beloved and highly successful indies like “Clerks,” “Little Miss Sunshine,” “Fruitvale Station,” “Whiplash,” “Manchester by the Sea,” “Get Out,” “The Big Sick,” “Promising Young Woman,” “Minari,” and “Coda.” 2022’s fest hosted the premieres of “Cha Cha Real Smooth,” “Emily the Criminal,” “Resurrection,” “Nanny,” and “Living”. More than any other film festival, the Park City event is a place of discovery, so it’s tough to predict what will break out. Still, it’s always fun to try! Here are six Sundance premieres that could be conversation-starters throughout 2023:
“All Dirt Roads Taste of Salt”
“All Dirt Roads Taste of Salt” depicts the life of an African-American woman across multiple decades in Mississippi. The first promotional image suggests a lyrical memory piece that blends the sensibilities of Terrence Malick and Barry Jenkins.
“All Dirt Roads Taste of Salt”
“All Dirt Roads Taste of Salt” depicts the life of an African-American woman across multiple decades in Mississippi. The first promotional image suggests a lyrical memory piece that blends the sensibilities of Terrence Malick and Barry Jenkins.
- 12/28/2022
- by Ronald Meyer
- Gold Derby
“I was not familiar with the story of Jesse Brown, which is quite embarrassing,” admits Deirdra Govan, the costume designer for “Devotion.” The Sony Pictures film stars Jonathan Majors as Brown, the first African-American to complete the U.S. Navy’s flight training program. “My step-father served in Korea. When I read the script it was very powerful, but at the same time, I felt disappointed in the fact that I had not heard of this story and I pretty much read everything.” Watch our video interview above.
“Devotion” is directed by J.D. Dillard and tells the true story of Brown and fellow Navy pilot Tom Hudner (played by Glen Powell) as they risk their lives during the Korean War and become some of the Navy’s most celebrated wingmen. The movie premiered at the Toronto Film Festival and was released nationwide on November 23.
See Jonathan Majors (‘Devotion’) on becoming U.
“Devotion” is directed by J.D. Dillard and tells the true story of Brown and fellow Navy pilot Tom Hudner (played by Glen Powell) as they risk their lives during the Korean War and become some of the Navy’s most celebrated wingmen. The movie premiered at the Toronto Film Festival and was released nationwide on November 23.
See Jonathan Majors (‘Devotion’) on becoming U.
- 12/20/2022
- by Denton Davidson
- Gold Derby
Click here to read the full article.
The text from my mom said that they were coming to visit set from “3/16-4/18.” Presuming a typo, I was surprised to hear that my parents were only visiting for two days. Given we’d spent 12 years as a Navy family — my father is a former naval flight officer — I thought they might want to spend more time seeing the story of Jesse Brown, the Navy’s first Black aviator, come to life on the set of Devotion. I texted her back, mildly disappointed about their short visit, but my mom reaffirmed the dates, “3/16-4/18.” They were coming for a month — far more than I ever expected, and admittedly far longer than I initially desired, but ultimately far too short of a time I’ll forever cherish.
Photos and videos of my father strapped snugly to the seats of fighter jets, mirrored visor...
The text from my mom said that they were coming to visit set from “3/16-4/18.” Presuming a typo, I was surprised to hear that my parents were only visiting for two days. Given we’d spent 12 years as a Navy family — my father is a former naval flight officer — I thought they might want to spend more time seeing the story of Jesse Brown, the Navy’s first Black aviator, come to life on the set of Devotion. I texted her back, mildly disappointed about their short visit, but my mom reaffirmed the dates, “3/16-4/18.” They were coming for a month — far more than I ever expected, and admittedly far longer than I initially desired, but ultimately far too short of a time I’ll forever cherish.
Photos and videos of my father strapped snugly to the seats of fighter jets, mirrored visor...
- 12/11/2022
- by JD Dillard
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
It was up to supervising sound editors Will Files and Matt Yocum and dialogue and Adr supervisor Eliza Zebert to build the soundscape for Korean War-set “Devotion,” a story that centers on the friendship between Jesse Brown (Jonathan Majors) the first Black aviator in U.S. Navy history, and fellow fighter pilot Tom Hudner (Glen Powell).
Yocum, an alumnus of Savannah College of Art and Design, was able to record a real 1950 F4U Corsair, making it period-correct. “It was important for us to get authentic sound to feel the weight and visceral quality of these aircraft, because, at the end of the day, they are characters in the film that had to be brought to life and participate in the story with Tom Hudner, Jesse Brown and the other pilots,” he says.
To collect the sounds, Yocum flew to the Erickson Aircraft Collection in Oregon with friend and fellow sound expert Kai Paquin.
Yocum, an alumnus of Savannah College of Art and Design, was able to record a real 1950 F4U Corsair, making it period-correct. “It was important for us to get authentic sound to feel the weight and visceral quality of these aircraft, because, at the end of the day, they are characters in the film that had to be brought to life and participate in the story with Tom Hudner, Jesse Brown and the other pilots,” he says.
To collect the sounds, Yocum flew to the Erickson Aircraft Collection in Oregon with friend and fellow sound expert Kai Paquin.
- 12/9/2022
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
The nominees for the Oscar for best original song could make for a star-studded category, as several of the leading contenders — representing films like Disney/Marvel’s Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Sony’s Devotion, Paramount’s Top Gun: Maverick and Pixar’s Turning Red, among others — were written and performed by some of our leading pop stars.
From new songs from Oscar winners Lady Gaga, Billie Eilish and Finneas to the long-awaited new track from Rihanna, these original compositions will aim to land on the category’s short list (which is announced Dec. 21) before making it to the home stretch when the nominations are announced next January.
Rihanna – “Lift Me Up”
The singer (and fashion mogul) returned from a years-long hiatus from music with this ballad for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, co-written with the film’s composer, Ludwig Göransson, writer-director Ryan Coogler and Nigerian singer Tems.
The nominees for the Oscar for best original song could make for a star-studded category, as several of the leading contenders — representing films like Disney/Marvel’s Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Sony’s Devotion, Paramount’s Top Gun: Maverick and Pixar’s Turning Red, among others — were written and performed by some of our leading pop stars.
From new songs from Oscar winners Lady Gaga, Billie Eilish and Finneas to the long-awaited new track from Rihanna, these original compositions will aim to land on the category’s short list (which is announced Dec. 21) before making it to the home stretch when the nominations are announced next January.
Rihanna – “Lift Me Up”
The singer (and fashion mogul) returned from a years-long hiatus from music with this ballad for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, co-written with the film’s composer, Ludwig Göransson, writer-director Ryan Coogler and Nigerian singer Tems.
- 12/8/2022
- by Tyler Coates
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Click here to read the full article.
The great debate about whether films that depict Black stories placed against the backdrop of American history’s dark side are a form of healing or, conversely, a reopening of long-expressed wounds, is nuanced and unneat. Consistently, the most celebrated prestige films that center the Black experience or feature predominantly Black casts — like this year’s Devotion, Emancipation and Till, plus previous Oscar winners Judas and the Black Messiah, Selma and 12 Years a Slave — have been historical narratives repackaged and reanimated for modern audiences. And, most often, they operate in the register of adversity and trauma, which is, at best, a lopsided representation of the vast dynamism of Black American life and, at worst, retrigger new generations of viewers who deserve fresh stories and lighter fare.
To this end, there may be some who are weary of exploring slavery or the civil...
The great debate about whether films that depict Black stories placed against the backdrop of American history’s dark side are a form of healing or, conversely, a reopening of long-expressed wounds, is nuanced and unneat. Consistently, the most celebrated prestige films that center the Black experience or feature predominantly Black casts — like this year’s Devotion, Emancipation and Till, plus previous Oscar winners Judas and the Black Messiah, Selma and 12 Years a Slave — have been historical narratives repackaged and reanimated for modern audiences. And, most often, they operate in the register of adversity and trauma, which is, at best, a lopsided representation of the vast dynamism of Black American life and, at worst, retrigger new generations of viewers who deserve fresh stories and lighter fare.
To this end, there may be some who are weary of exploring slavery or the civil...
- 12/6/2022
- by Evan Nicole Brown
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Click here to read the full article.
From Christina Jackson’s perspective, acting chose her — not the other way around. “I was always very animated, and my parents thought I [might become] a lawyer,” recalls Jackson, 35, of her formative years in Plainfield, New Jersey. The vocation she would make her career as an adult first presented itself when Jackson was in seventh grade. “There wasn’t a lot available — like, I wasn’t taking karate classes, I wasn’t doing ballet,” she says of the moment a teacher in her middle school suggested she join the drama club.
The connection was immediate. “I love reading, I love storytelling — I love turning the page and being transported back in time or to another world,” says Jackson. Discovering a talent for performing led her to an arts-focused high school, where she majored in drama. “It wasn’t a game anymore. This was real work.
From Christina Jackson’s perspective, acting chose her — not the other way around. “I was always very animated, and my parents thought I [might become] a lawyer,” recalls Jackson, 35, of her formative years in Plainfield, New Jersey. The vocation she would make her career as an adult first presented itself when Jackson was in seventh grade. “There wasn’t a lot available — like, I wasn’t taking karate classes, I wasn’t doing ballet,” she says of the moment a teacher in her middle school suggested she join the drama club.
The connection was immediate. “I love reading, I love storytelling — I love turning the page and being transported back in time or to another world,” says Jackson. Discovering a talent for performing led her to an arts-focused high school, where she majored in drama. “It wasn’t a game anymore. This was real work.
- 12/4/2022
- by Tyler Coates
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
“Devotion,” based on the book by Adam Makos, flew into theaters over Thanksgiving break. The film about flight, friendship and family landed at an ideal time in the holiday season, and it features a number of talented actors who bring the true story to life onscreen. Before he appeared in the role of Hangman in “Top Gun: Maverick,” Glen Powell knew he wanted to bring the story of Jesse Brown and Tom Hudner to life — Powell finished Makos’ book in 2016, after which he began to develop the project. Joined by director Jd Dillard and actor Jonathan Majors who portrays the precedent-setting Jesse Brown, the crew launches into a harrowing and heartwarming story.
“Devotion” chronicles the journey of two wingmen in the U.S. Navy’s Fighter Squadron 32. The pair came from completely opposite backgrounds, yet they joined forces to become the most well-known naval aviators to date, risking their lives in...
“Devotion” chronicles the journey of two wingmen in the U.S. Navy’s Fighter Squadron 32. The pair came from completely opposite backgrounds, yet they joined forces to become the most well-known naval aviators to date, risking their lives in...
- 12/3/2022
- by Dessi Gomez
- The Wrap
Click here to read the full article.
In Sony’s Devotion, Jonathan Majors stars as Jesse Brown, the first Black aviator to complete the Navy’s basic training program. Set in the months leading to the Korean War, the film — directed by J.D. Dillard and adapted from Adam Makos’ nonfiction book by screenwriters Jake Crane and Jonathan A. Stewart — also stars Glen Powell as Tom Hudner, a naval lieutenant assigned to be Brown’s wingman. The film follows the pair as they train for battle and learn the tricky (and dangerous) challenge of landing a plane on the deck of an aircraft carrier. Their professional partnership soon evolves into a friendship so strong that they are willing to sacrifice their lives to protect each other, on the ground as well as in the air.
For Majors, playing Brown was a highlight in his burgeoning screen career. While he has appeared...
In Sony’s Devotion, Jonathan Majors stars as Jesse Brown, the first Black aviator to complete the Navy’s basic training program. Set in the months leading to the Korean War, the film — directed by J.D. Dillard and adapted from Adam Makos’ nonfiction book by screenwriters Jake Crane and Jonathan A. Stewart — also stars Glen Powell as Tom Hudner, a naval lieutenant assigned to be Brown’s wingman. The film follows the pair as they train for battle and learn the tricky (and dangerous) challenge of landing a plane on the deck of an aircraft carrier. Their professional partnership soon evolves into a friendship so strong that they are willing to sacrifice their lives to protect each other, on the ground as well as in the air.
For Majors, playing Brown was a highlight in his burgeoning screen career. While he has appeared...
- 12/3/2022
- by Tyler Coates
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
“Devotion” adapts the remarkable true story of Jesse Brown and Tom Hudner, Navy pilots following WWII and before The Korean War who had each other’s backs no matter what. Ensign Jesse Brown (Jonathan Majors) was the first African American carrier pilot to serve in the navy. He found his calling from a super young age, realizing it fully when he saw a poster advertising flying for the Navy at Ohio State University. Lieutenant Tom Hudner passed up Harvard to go to the Naval Academy, and he became Jesse’s wingman.
Based on the book by Adam Makos, “Devotion” follows Jesse and Tom’s journey alongside Fighting 32, their assigned Flight Squadron, as tension built following World War II to bleed into The Korean War. Alongside the starring pair, Christina Jackson, Joe Jonas and more appear.
Fans of Jonathan Majors and/or Glen Powell may be wondering how to watch “Devotion,...
Based on the book by Adam Makos, “Devotion” follows Jesse and Tom’s journey alongside Fighting 32, their assigned Flight Squadron, as tension built following World War II to bleed into The Korean War. Alongside the starring pair, Christina Jackson, Joe Jonas and more appear.
Fans of Jonathan Majors and/or Glen Powell may be wondering how to watch “Devotion,...
- 12/2/2022
- by Dessi Gomez
- The Wrap
Jesse Brown (Jonathan Majors) in Columbia Pictures’ Devotion. The film Devotion tells the real life story of Jesse Brown and Tom Hudner, a couple of Navy pilots who trained and flew together during the Korean War. Jonathan Majors, who plays Brown in the movie, told us that it’s important for people to learn more about the efforts and heroism of men like Brown, who literally gave all they had for their country. (Click on the media bar below to hear Jonathan Majors) https://www.hollywoodoutbreak.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Jonthan_Majors_Jesse_Brown_.mp3 Devotion in now playing in theaters.
The post Jonathan Majors Wants The World To Remember ‘Devotion’s’ Jesse Brown appeared first on Hollywood Outbreak.
The post Jonathan Majors Wants The World To Remember ‘Devotion’s’ Jesse Brown appeared first on Hollywood Outbreak.
- 12/2/2022
- by Hollywood Outbreak
- HollywoodOutbreak.com
The box office woes are far from the whole story about the three awards-worthy films that opened or expanded over Thanksgiving weekend – MGM/Uar’s “Bones and All,” Sony Pictures’ “Devotion” and Walt Disney’s “Strange World.” Despite low financial returns, the studios are forging ahead in their bids for Academy Awards attention, as they should.
The cannibal feature “Bones and All” struggled to bring audiences to the theaters despite the star power of Timothée Chalamet. Still, for those who love it (spoiler alert: me), it’s one of the year’s best films, with its bloody embodiment of teenage love, meticulous crafts and high-caliber performances that elicit a passionate response.
It might not work for voters who are squeamish about severed fingers and blood dripping on nice furniture, but the film won prizes for its director Luca Guadganino and best young actress for star Taylor Russell when premiered at the Venice Film Festival.
The cannibal feature “Bones and All” struggled to bring audiences to the theaters despite the star power of Timothée Chalamet. Still, for those who love it (spoiler alert: me), it’s one of the year’s best films, with its bloody embodiment of teenage love, meticulous crafts and high-caliber performances that elicit a passionate response.
It might not work for voters who are squeamish about severed fingers and blood dripping on nice furniture, but the film won prizes for its director Luca Guadganino and best young actress for star Taylor Russell when premiered at the Venice Film Festival.
- 11/25/2022
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com audio film review for “Devotion,” a based-on-truth scenario regarding Jesse Brown, a Navy black aviator who broke through barriers during the 1950s Korean War, in theaters on November 23rd.
Rating: 3.0/5.0
This is the story of Jesse Brown (Jonathan Majors) and Tom Hudner (Glen Powell), a black and white wingman team during the early integrated Navy pilot days during the early Korean War conflict. Jesse Brown was a pioneer as a Top Gun for the Navy in the days when African Americans were given few opportunities to fly planes for the U.S. military. Hudner becomes his colleague and friend, while Brown’s wife Daisy (Christina Jackson) keeps up the home front in a new and not-so-welcoming neighborhood. When the a war mission beckons and duty calls, the two mavericky pilots will watch each other’s backs.
”Devotion” opens in theaters on November 23rd. Featuring Jonathan Majors,...
Rating: 3.0/5.0
This is the story of Jesse Brown (Jonathan Majors) and Tom Hudner (Glen Powell), a black and white wingman team during the early integrated Navy pilot days during the early Korean War conflict. Jesse Brown was a pioneer as a Top Gun for the Navy in the days when African Americans were given few opportunities to fly planes for the U.S. military. Hudner becomes his colleague and friend, while Brown’s wife Daisy (Christina Jackson) keeps up the home front in a new and not-so-welcoming neighborhood. When the a war mission beckons and duty calls, the two mavericky pilots will watch each other’s backs.
”Devotion” opens in theaters on November 23rd. Featuring Jonathan Majors,...
- 11/25/2022
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Devotion adheres to the true story of Jesse Brown, the first Black Naval aviator. It’s a name many will be hearing for the first time. Adapted from a 2014 novel, director J.D. Dillard’s film doesn’t bear the trappings of that other aviation blockbuster from 2022. It doesn’t have a storybook structure. The built narrative struggles against the facts of its plot, unable to find rhythm in a fictionalized version of events. But none of it matters—Brown remains a remarkable figure, a complicated character to study, and impossible not to root for.
Playing Brown is Jonathan Majors, an actor who’s seemed to make every project better in his young career, whose rising stock brings an extra layer to this performance. His fame skyrocketed off the heels of his introduction into the Marvel universe, though he’s a much bigger hero in Devotion: he brings a groundedness, an emotional intensity,...
Playing Brown is Jonathan Majors, an actor who’s seemed to make every project better in his young career, whose rising stock brings an extra layer to this performance. His fame skyrocketed off the heels of his introduction into the Marvel universe, though he’s a much bigger hero in Devotion: he brings a groundedness, an emotional intensity,...
- 11/24/2022
- by Michael Frank
- The Film Stage
Click here to read the full article.
All Quiet on the Western Front (Netflix) All Quiet on the Western Front
Director Edward Berger has taken a fresh crack at Erich Maria Remarque’s 1929 World War I novel, the first German-language adaptation of the antiwar classic.
Blonde (Netflix) Blonde
Andrew Dominik’s Marilyn Monroe biopic, based on Joyce Carol Oates’ novel, has garnered raves and pans in equal measure. Oates herself tweeted on Sept. 30 in support of the movie, saying “not all films are obliged to be uplifting in their conclusions.”
Bones and All (United Artists) Bones and All
Luca Guadagnino’s ’80s-set feature is based on Camille DeAngelis’ 2015 novel and follows a pair of young cannibals in love as they roam the U.S.
Catherine Called Birdy (Prime Video) Catherine Called Birdy
Lena Dunham adapted the 1994 Karen Cushman novel about a 13th-century teenager who rebels against the patriarchy. “What I...
All Quiet on the Western Front (Netflix) All Quiet on the Western Front
Director Edward Berger has taken a fresh crack at Erich Maria Remarque’s 1929 World War I novel, the first German-language adaptation of the antiwar classic.
Blonde (Netflix) Blonde
Andrew Dominik’s Marilyn Monroe biopic, based on Joyce Carol Oates’ novel, has garnered raves and pans in equal measure. Oates herself tweeted on Sept. 30 in support of the movie, saying “not all films are obliged to be uplifting in their conclusions.”
Bones and All (United Artists) Bones and All
Luca Guadagnino’s ’80s-set feature is based on Camille DeAngelis’ 2015 novel and follows a pair of young cannibals in love as they roam the U.S.
Catherine Called Birdy (Prime Video) Catherine Called Birdy
Lena Dunham adapted the 1994 Karen Cushman novel about a 13th-century teenager who rebels against the patriarchy. “What I...
- 11/24/2022
- by Hilton Dresden
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The makers of the aerial war epic film ‘Devotion’, where pop icon Joe Jonas makes his acting debut, have moved its India release from November 25 to December 2. Based on the bestselling book written by Adam Makos, the film also stars Jonathan Majors and Glenn Powell playing celebrated wingmen in the movie.
‘Devotion’ is a true story from the Korean War about two elite US Navy fighter pilots — Jesse Brown, who was the first black aviator in US Navy history. and his compatriot and dear friend, Tom Hunder. The action takes place during a brutal battle in the Korean War.
Thomas Sadoski will be seen as the commanding officer; Powell and Majors play the parts of Hunder and Brown, respectively. ‘Devotion’also stars Christina Jackson in a lead role.
The film has been produced by Molly Smith, Thad Luckinbill and Trent Luckinbill through Black Label. PVR Pictures is distributing the film in India.
‘Devotion’ is a true story from the Korean War about two elite US Navy fighter pilots — Jesse Brown, who was the first black aviator in US Navy history. and his compatriot and dear friend, Tom Hunder. The action takes place during a brutal battle in the Korean War.
Thomas Sadoski will be seen as the commanding officer; Powell and Majors play the parts of Hunder and Brown, respectively. ‘Devotion’also stars Christina Jackson in a lead role.
The film has been produced by Molly Smith, Thad Luckinbill and Trent Luckinbill through Black Label. PVR Pictures is distributing the film in India.
- 11/24/2022
- by Glamsham Bureau
- GlamSham
The action drama tells the story of Jesse Brown, a groundbreaking fighter pilot who chose to fight in the Korean war
Jesse Brown was the original top gun – a navy fighter pilot whose heroism in the Korean war earned him the Distinguished Flying Cross, the loftiest award the US military pins on high fliers. That he was also the first Black pilot to pass navy flight training puts him in rarified air.
Brown, 24, never made it home. While supporting Un ground forces engaged in the Battle of the Chosin Reservoir in December 1950, Brown suffered artillery damage to his F4U Corsair aircraft and crash-landed in a remote mountain valley. When his wingman, Tom Hudner, saw Brown struggling to come unpinned from his cockpit afterward, he defied orders and intentionally crash-landed his plane nearby to help Brown. But in the end Hudner, after calming a fire on Brown’s plane and...
Jesse Brown was the original top gun – a navy fighter pilot whose heroism in the Korean war earned him the Distinguished Flying Cross, the loftiest award the US military pins on high fliers. That he was also the first Black pilot to pass navy flight training puts him in rarified air.
Brown, 24, never made it home. While supporting Un ground forces engaged in the Battle of the Chosin Reservoir in December 1950, Brown suffered artillery damage to his F4U Corsair aircraft and crash-landed in a remote mountain valley. When his wingman, Tom Hudner, saw Brown struggling to come unpinned from his cockpit afterward, he defied orders and intentionally crash-landed his plane nearby to help Brown. But in the end Hudner, after calming a fire on Brown’s plane and...
- 11/24/2022
- by Andrew Lawrence
- The Guardian - Film News
Click here to read the full article.
[This story contains “spoilers” for the historical Korean War drama Devotion.]
Devotion director Jd Dillard knew what was in store when Jonathan Majors was scheduled to perform his Korean War drama’s most powerful scene, but the performance still hit harder than anyone expected.
Devotion chronicles the heroics of the first Black naval aviator, Jesse L. Brown (Majors), during the Korean War, as well as his relationships with his loving wife, Daisy (Christina Jackson), and wingman Tom Hudner (Glen Powell). Prior to each flight, Brown performed a ritual in which he would look in the bathroom mirror and recite all of the horrible remarks that have been said to him over the course of his life.
For Dillard, it was most important that his actor feel safe on the unusually quiet set.
“That scene hurt, man, and it’s supposed to hurt,” Dillard tells The Hollywood Reporter. “It’s one of those scenes where...
[This story contains “spoilers” for the historical Korean War drama Devotion.]
Devotion director Jd Dillard knew what was in store when Jonathan Majors was scheduled to perform his Korean War drama’s most powerful scene, but the performance still hit harder than anyone expected.
Devotion chronicles the heroics of the first Black naval aviator, Jesse L. Brown (Majors), during the Korean War, as well as his relationships with his loving wife, Daisy (Christina Jackson), and wingman Tom Hudner (Glen Powell). Prior to each flight, Brown performed a ritual in which he would look in the bathroom mirror and recite all of the horrible remarks that have been said to him over the course of his life.
For Dillard, it was most important that his actor feel safe on the unusually quiet set.
“That scene hurt, man, and it’s supposed to hurt,” Dillard tells The Hollywood Reporter. “It’s one of those scenes where...
- 11/23/2022
- by Brian Davids
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Joe Jonas is disappointed with his history teachers. He says it’s a shame that he was never taught about Jesse Brown, the Navy’s first Black fighter pilot who served in the Korean War.
Brown’s time in the war and friendship with fellow pilot Tom Hudner (played by Glen Powell) is chronicled in the J.D. Dillard-directed film “Devotion.” Jonas plays pilot Marty Goode.
“I don’t know whether to be mad at my history teachers,” Jonas tells me on this week’s episode of the “Just for Variety” podcast. “When I got the audition. I read the book, read the script, met the director and I was just like, ‘How have I not heard of this story of these two incredible brave individuals and the Korean War?’ I think in school you just go from World War II and then you just skip [the Korean War] and we don’t focus on it enough.
Brown’s time in the war and friendship with fellow pilot Tom Hudner (played by Glen Powell) is chronicled in the J.D. Dillard-directed film “Devotion.” Jonas plays pilot Marty Goode.
“I don’t know whether to be mad at my history teachers,” Jonas tells me on this week’s episode of the “Just for Variety” podcast. “When I got the audition. I read the book, read the script, met the director and I was just like, ‘How have I not heard of this story of these two incredible brave individuals and the Korean War?’ I think in school you just go from World War II and then you just skip [the Korean War] and we don’t focus on it enough.
- 11/23/2022
- by Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
“Devotion” is the incredible true story of Navy pilots Tom Hudner (Glen Powell) and Jesse Brown (Jonathan Majors), fearless fighters who had each others’ backs during the Korean War, inside and outside of the cockpit. Dramatic and action-packed, “Devotion” is the perfect movie to see with your family this holiday weekend; it takes the so-called “Forgotten War” and brings it to life brilliantly.
TheWrap got to sit down with the movie’s very handsome stars Jonathan Majors and Glen Powell (the latter of whom has a bit of Navy aviation experience thanks to “Top Gun: Maverick”). We talked about why this story was so important to tell; Powell tells a very detailed story about pitching the movie to Majors in a Turkish bathhouse; and Majors, who stars in the upcoming “Ant-Man and the Wasp in Quantumania,” extends an invitation to Powell to become a part of the MCU.
Glen, I...
TheWrap got to sit down with the movie’s very handsome stars Jonathan Majors and Glen Powell (the latter of whom has a bit of Navy aviation experience thanks to “Top Gun: Maverick”). We talked about why this story was so important to tell; Powell tells a very detailed story about pitching the movie to Majors in a Turkish bathhouse; and Majors, who stars in the upcoming “Ant-Man and the Wasp in Quantumania,” extends an invitation to Powell to become a part of the MCU.
Glen, I...
- 11/23/2022
- by Drew Taylor
- The Wrap
Plot: During the Korean War, Jesse Brown (Jonathan Majors), one of the first black Naval aviators, and his wingman, Tom Hudner (Glen Powell), become close friends, with a deadly mission eventually proving their unfailing devotion to each other.
Review: In the middle of so many art films here at TIFF, it’s still refreshing to know that a well-crafted, mainstream, big-studio potential blockbuster can still find its way in. Sporting a huge up-and-coming star in Glen Powell, Devotion is exceedingly well-timed, with him having just played another Naval aviator to massive success in Top Gun: Maverick. Pairing him with Jonathan Majors, who’s about to become the big new bad guy in the next batch of Marvel movies, may prove to be a savvy move for Sony, with this likely to appeal to the same audience that liked Maverick so much. This is another unfussy crowdpleaser and, like Maverick, tells...
Review: In the middle of so many art films here at TIFF, it’s still refreshing to know that a well-crafted, mainstream, big-studio potential blockbuster can still find its way in. Sporting a huge up-and-coming star in Glen Powell, Devotion is exceedingly well-timed, with him having just played another Naval aviator to massive success in Top Gun: Maverick. Pairing him with Jonathan Majors, who’s about to become the big new bad guy in the next batch of Marvel movies, may prove to be a savvy move for Sony, with this likely to appeal to the same audience that liked Maverick so much. This is another unfussy crowdpleaser and, like Maverick, tells...
- 11/23/2022
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
Early on in Devotion, Jesse Brown (Jonathan Majors), the first Black aviator in Navy history, tries to psych himself up before taking to the skies. It’s a pivotal moment in the film and uses a classic film trope: talking to oneself while looking at the mirror. Think Robert De Niro in Taxi Driver or Matt Damon in The…...
- 11/23/2022
- by Murtada Elfadl
- avclub.com
Glen Powell attends .Devotion. World Premiere during the Toronto International Film Festival. The film Devotion tells the story of U.S. Navy airmen Jesse Brown and Tom Hudner, a pair of decorated pilots who trained together and were wingmen during the Korean War. Glen Powell plays Hudner in the film, and he told us that getting the opportunity to star in Devotion carried a lot of personal meaning for him, since he’d gotten a first-hand education about the Korean War from a family member who’d fought in it. (Click on the media bar below to hear Glen Powell) https://www.hollywoodoutbreak.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Glen_Powell_Devotion_Story_.mp3 Devotion is now playing in theaters.
The post Glen Powell’s ‘Devotion’ To New Film Was Personal appeared first on Hollywood Outbreak.
The post Glen Powell’s ‘Devotion’ To New Film Was Personal appeared first on Hollywood Outbreak.
- 11/23/2022
- by Hollywood Outbreak
- HollywoodOutbreak.com
It’s important to keep in mind when sitting down to the big holiday meal in a day or so, that many families will have a temporary missing seat at the table. That’s the case with so many households with loved ones serving in the military. And then there’s the empty seat that goes from temporary to permanent. This Thanksgiving weekend’s new film release touches on that with a tale of real-life heroism in the sky. Oh, but it’s not another Top Gun wannabe, although it features one of the recent sequel’s hunky young stars. This is based on a conflict 72 years in the past. And, as I said, it’s all true concerning a group of men who possess a very special kind of Devotion.
The saga starts at a naval air base in Rhode Island as Navy fighter pilot Tom Hudner (Glen Powell) arrives for his new assignment.
The saga starts at a naval air base in Rhode Island as Navy fighter pilot Tom Hudner (Glen Powell) arrives for his new assignment.
- 11/23/2022
- by Jim Batts
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
This week’s box office preview is a little earlier (and longer) than usual, because on Tuesday evening, there will be previews for four new movies in wide release, as well as the expansion of Steven Spielberg’s “The Fabelmans” and Luca Guadagnino’s “Bones and All” nationwide.
Thanksgiving tends to be a rich and robust time at the box office, since people are off work and school on Black Friday (and some on Wednesday), offering the perfect time for a five-day weekend in which movies are a great pastime to do with the family before or after the feast. Because of the family aspect of Thanksgiving, family movies tend to do quite well, and Disney has almost single-handedly monopolized the weekend for many decades now.
Because of this, the strongest release of the extended five-day weekend will probably be Disney Animation Studios’ “Small World,” with the Mouse House trying...
Thanksgiving tends to be a rich and robust time at the box office, since people are off work and school on Black Friday (and some on Wednesday), offering the perfect time for a five-day weekend in which movies are a great pastime to do with the family before or after the feast. Because of the family aspect of Thanksgiving, family movies tend to do quite well, and Disney has almost single-handedly monopolized the weekend for many decades now.
Because of this, the strongest release of the extended five-day weekend will probably be Disney Animation Studios’ “Small World,” with the Mouse House trying...
- 11/22/2022
- by Edward Douglas
- Gold Derby
Some of “Devotion” director Jd Dillard’s earliest memories are of the rumbling of F/A-18 jet engines.
“It’s quite abstract,” Dillard tells Variety over Zoom, recounting his sense memories of being about four years old, toddling around the Blue Angels headquarters in Pensacola, Fla. The filmmaker’s father, Bruce Dillard, was stationed there after becoming the second African American to fly with the Navy flight demonstration squadron.
“I remember shapes. I remember the nose of an F-18,” Dillard continues. ”I remember the little pylons that hold up the railing next to the entrance, the smell of the wax that they clean the planes with, and the noise that rumbles your chest.”
A few weeks ago, as part of the promotion for “Devotion” — which tells the story of the unbreakable bond forged between elite Navy aviators and Korean War heroes Ensign Jesse L. Brown (Jonathan Majors) and Lt. Thomas Hudner...
“It’s quite abstract,” Dillard tells Variety over Zoom, recounting his sense memories of being about four years old, toddling around the Blue Angels headquarters in Pensacola, Fla. The filmmaker’s father, Bruce Dillard, was stationed there after becoming the second African American to fly with the Navy flight demonstration squadron.
“I remember shapes. I remember the nose of an F-18,” Dillard continues. ”I remember the little pylons that hold up the railing next to the entrance, the smell of the wax that they clean the planes with, and the noise that rumbles your chest.”
A few weeks ago, as part of the promotion for “Devotion” — which tells the story of the unbreakable bond forged between elite Navy aviators and Korean War heroes Ensign Jesse L. Brown (Jonathan Majors) and Lt. Thomas Hudner...
- 11/22/2022
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
It's remarkable how often seemingly ancient history becomes relevant again in our modern day -- sometimes tragically so. Such is the case in director J.D. Dillard's newest movie, "Devotion." The movie focuses on the Korean War of the early 1950s, telling the harrowing true story of two elite U.S. Navy fighter pilots. Specifically, the movie shines a light on Jesse Brown, played by Jonathan Majors ("Lovecraft Country"), who became the first Black aviator to ever complete the U.S. Navy's basic flight training program.
Looper's Don Kaye recently had the chance to speak with Majors in honor of the film's forthcoming release this weekend. During the conversation, Kaye asked the actor who relevant Brown's story is all these years later, particularly for Black people who are still facing roadblocks in today's society. Majors, for his part, feels Brown's story is an ever-relevant hero's journey to be used as...
Looper's Don Kaye recently had the chance to speak with Majors in honor of the film's forthcoming release this weekend. During the conversation, Kaye asked the actor who relevant Brown's story is all these years later, particularly for Black people who are still facing roadblocks in today's society. Majors, for his part, feels Brown's story is an ever-relevant hero's journey to be used as...
- 11/22/2022
- by Ryan Scott
- Slash Film
Click here to read the full article.
Jonathan Majors’ accomplishments are even more impressive when you consider that he graduated Yale School of Drama just six years ago.
On Nov. 23, the actor returns to the big screen as Korean War hero Jesse L. Brown in J.D. Dillard’s Devotion. Majors’ performance as Brown chronicles his achievements as the first African-American naval aviator, as well as his heroics in the “Forgotten War.” The film features one of Majors’ most remarkable scenes to date, as he performs Jesse’s preflight ritual of reciting every terrible remark that’s ever been said to him. As one can imagine, the scene had quite an emotional impact on Majors.
“I just needed to stay out of the way and let Jesse’s story come out. I needed to let my ancestors’ story come out and anybody else who felt marginalized and put down to that degree,...
Jonathan Majors’ accomplishments are even more impressive when you consider that he graduated Yale School of Drama just six years ago.
On Nov. 23, the actor returns to the big screen as Korean War hero Jesse L. Brown in J.D. Dillard’s Devotion. Majors’ performance as Brown chronicles his achievements as the first African-American naval aviator, as well as his heroics in the “Forgotten War.” The film features one of Majors’ most remarkable scenes to date, as he performs Jesse’s preflight ritual of reciting every terrible remark that’s ever been said to him. As one can imagine, the scene had quite an emotional impact on Majors.
“I just needed to stay out of the way and let Jesse’s story come out. I needed to let my ancestors’ story come out and anybody else who felt marginalized and put down to that degree,...
- 11/21/2022
- by Brian Davids
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
This story about Joe Jonas and the film “Devotion” originally appeared in the Race Begins issue of TheWrap Magazine.
When Joe Jonas signed on to be a part of “Devotion,” director J.D. Dillard’s drama about the friendship between Naval aviators Jesse Brown and Tom Hudner during the Korean War, it had nothing to do with his day job as a singer. Instead, Jonas was hired to act in the film, playing a pilot who fought alongside Brown, one of the Navy’s first Black aviators. It was only later, after the film had been completed that Dillard asked Jonas if he’d be interested in writing and performing a song for the end credits.
“I’d been trying to separate the two passions of mine, acting and music, but this project was so dear to my heart that I wanted to do it,” he said. “It was exciting but also overwhelming.
When Joe Jonas signed on to be a part of “Devotion,” director J.D. Dillard’s drama about the friendship between Naval aviators Jesse Brown and Tom Hudner during the Korean War, it had nothing to do with his day job as a singer. Instead, Jonas was hired to act in the film, playing a pilot who fought alongside Brown, one of the Navy’s first Black aviators. It was only later, after the film had been completed that Dillard asked Jonas if he’d be interested in writing and performing a song for the end credits.
“I’d been trying to separate the two passions of mine, acting and music, but this project was so dear to my heart that I wanted to do it,” he said. “It was exciting but also overwhelming.
- 11/21/2022
- by Steve Pond
- The Wrap
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“I hadn’t heard of him until I read the script,” admits Jonathan Majors, who plays U.S. Navy fighter pilot Jesse Brown in the Sony Pictures release “Devotion.” “I was just bowled over by how heroic he was in battle and outside of battle. This is pre-mlk, pre Malcolm X. The Civil Rights movement is needed, but not anywhere close to beginning. He was a true maverick. A true trailblazer.” Watch our exclusive video interview above.
“Devotion” is directed by J.D. Dillard and tells the true story of Brown and fellow Navy pilot Tom Hudner (played by Glen Powell) as they risk their lives during the Korean War and become some of the Navy’s most celebrated wingmen. The movie premiered at the Toronto Film Festival and will be released nationwide on November 23.
See ‘Devotion’ wins top prize at Middleburg Film Festival: Oscars next?
Brown was the first African-American aviator to complete the U.
“I hadn’t heard of him until I read the script,” admits Jonathan Majors, who plays U.S. Navy fighter pilot Jesse Brown in the Sony Pictures release “Devotion.” “I was just bowled over by how heroic he was in battle and outside of battle. This is pre-mlk, pre Malcolm X. The Civil Rights movement is needed, but not anywhere close to beginning. He was a true maverick. A true trailblazer.” Watch our exclusive video interview above.
“Devotion” is directed by J.D. Dillard and tells the true story of Brown and fellow Navy pilot Tom Hudner (played by Glen Powell) as they risk their lives during the Korean War and become some of the Navy’s most celebrated wingmen. The movie premiered at the Toronto Film Festival and will be released nationwide on November 23.
See ‘Devotion’ wins top prize at Middleburg Film Festival: Oscars next?
Brown was the first African-American aviator to complete the U.
- 11/21/2022
- by Denton Davidson
- Gold Derby
Glen Powell first learned the story of naval fighter pilots Tom Hudner and Jesse Brown upon reading Adam Makos’ 2017 book “Devotion: An Epic Story of Heroism, Friendship, and Sacrifice.” It set the “Hidden Figures” and “Top Gun: Maverick” actor on a path to make “Devotion,” hitting theaters Nov. 23. Powell not only stars as Hudner but is a producer on the film, having spent years bringing the project to fruition. Set during the Korean War, the film also stars Jonathan Majors as Brown, who was the first Black aviator in the U.S. Navy and a recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross.
Were you surprised when you heard the story of “Devotion”? I was not familiar with Jesse Brown and Tom Hudner prior to this film.
I was the same. I first read the book about four years ago. Reading it, I remember thinking that it was incredible that I’d never heard this story before.
Were you surprised when you heard the story of “Devotion”? I was not familiar with Jesse Brown and Tom Hudner prior to this film.
I was the same. I first read the book about four years ago. Reading it, I remember thinking that it was incredible that I’d never heard this story before.
- 11/18/2022
- by Jenelle Riley
- Variety Film + TV
The Los Angeles premiere of “Devotion,” starring Jonathan Majors and Glen Powell, served as both a salute to the legacy and lineage of Korean War heroes Jesse L. Brown, the first African American Navy aviator, and Thomas Hudner, his devoted wingman, as well as a celebration of the familial bonds forged during the shoot.
“This movie, in so many ways, is a family effort,” director Jd Dillard said, introducing the film’s cast and crew before a packed house inside the Regency Village Theatre in Westwood on Tuesday night. “We all moved together like the boys shipping off to war to make this movie.”
Dillard then asked the few dozen descendants of Brown and Hudner in attendance to stand for a round of applause. It’s overwhelming to share these moments with the families, Dillard told Variety on the red carpet, but, he added, “There’s no other way to do it.
“This movie, in so many ways, is a family effort,” director Jd Dillard said, introducing the film’s cast and crew before a packed house inside the Regency Village Theatre in Westwood on Tuesday night. “We all moved together like the boys shipping off to war to make this movie.”
Dillard then asked the few dozen descendants of Brown and Hudner in attendance to stand for a round of applause. It’s overwhelming to share these moments with the families, Dillard told Variety on the red carpet, but, he added, “There’s no other way to do it.
- 11/17/2022
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
"Devotion" is the story of Jesse Brown and Tom Hudner Jr., two of the most decorated aviators from the Korean War. Jonathan Majors ("Loki") plays Jesse Brown, the first Black man to complete the U.S. Navy's basic flight training program. Glen Powell ("Top Gun: Maverick") plays Hudner Jr., his wingman who goes to incredible lengths to save his life during the conflict. It's a story of enduring friendship, loyalty, and love. "Devotion" is based on the book "Devotion: An Epic Story of Heroism, Friendship, and Sacrifice" by Adam Makos.
Majors recently stopped by "The Kelly Clarkson Show" to chat about "Devotion," where he revealed that his family history really upped the stakes for him. It wasn't just his own history, though. Many people involved with "Devotion" have family in the military. It was a lot to take on, in addition to flight training for the film's practical work and...
Majors recently stopped by "The Kelly Clarkson Show" to chat about "Devotion," where he revealed that his family history really upped the stakes for him. It wasn't just his own history, though. Many people involved with "Devotion" have family in the military. It was a lot to take on, in addition to flight training for the film's practical work and...
- 11/17/2022
- by Jenna Busch
- Slash Film
"Devotion" opens in theaters this Thanksgiving. The Sony Pictures Releasing film is the story of real-life Korean War aviators Jesse Brown, the first Black aviator to complete the U.S. Navy's basic flight training program, and his wingman Tom Hudner Jr., who went to heroic lengths to save his life. The two men were some of the most decorated pilots from that war.
"Devotion" is based on the book "Devotion: An Epic Story of Heroism, Friendship, and Sacrifice" by author Adam Makos, who spent time with the families of these brave men and wanted to tell their stories. Actor Glen Powell ("Top Gun: Maverick"), who plays Hudner Jr., read the book and fought to get the film made. He stars with Jonathan Majors, who plays Jesse Brown.
I attended the premiere of the film, and in addition to the cast and crew, I got a chance to speak with Makos,...
"Devotion" is based on the book "Devotion: An Epic Story of Heroism, Friendship, and Sacrifice" by author Adam Makos, who spent time with the families of these brave men and wanted to tell their stories. Actor Glen Powell ("Top Gun: Maverick"), who plays Hudner Jr., read the book and fought to get the film made. He stars with Jonathan Majors, who plays Jesse Brown.
I attended the premiere of the film, and in addition to the cast and crew, I got a chance to speak with Makos,...
- 11/17/2022
- by Jenna Busch
- Slash Film
"Devotion," directed by filmmaker J.D. Dillard, will hit theaters this Thanksgiving, and one of the big reasons we have the film at all is because star Glen Powell ("Top Gun: Maverick") was devoted to making it happen. After reading the 2017 book "Devotion: An Epic Story of Heroism, Friendship, and Sacrifice" by Adam Makos, he was determined to play the role of real-life Korean War aviator Tom Hudner Jr., who fought to save the life of his brave and talented wingman Jesse Brown, played by Jonathan Majors.
The Korean War is often referred to as "the forgotten war." We don't see as many films set during this conflict as we do with, say, WWII, but the true story of a powerful friendship and some of the most celebrated military men in the Korean War has finally made it to the big screen. I recently attended the red carpet for "Devotion" in...
The Korean War is often referred to as "the forgotten war." We don't see as many films set during this conflict as we do with, say, WWII, but the true story of a powerful friendship and some of the most celebrated military men in the Korean War has finally made it to the big screen. I recently attended the red carpet for "Devotion" in...
- 11/16/2022
- by Jenna Busch
- Slash Film
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