Joanna Merlin, who created the role of the daughter Tzeitel in Fiddler on the Roof on Broadway and served as a casting director for Stephen Sondheim, Harold Prince and Bernardo Bertolucci, has died. She was 92.
Merlin died Sunday in Los Angeles of complications from myelodysplastic syndrome, a bone marrow disorder, her daughters, documentary filmmaker Rachel Dretzin (Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey) and actress Julie Dretzin (The Handmaid’s Tale), announced.
Merlin also portrayed the dance teacher Miss Berg in Alan Parker’s Fame (1980) and recurred as Judge Lena Petrovsky for more than a decade on NBC’s Law and Order: Svu.
Her acting résumé included the films Hester Street (1975), All That Jazz (1979), Baby It’s You (1983), The Killing Fields (1984), Mystic Pizza (1988), Class Action (1991) and City of Angels (1998) and such TV shows as Naked City, The Defenders, East Side/West Side, Homeland and The Good Wife.
Merlin cast the original Broadway productions of Sondheim’s Company,...
Merlin died Sunday in Los Angeles of complications from myelodysplastic syndrome, a bone marrow disorder, her daughters, documentary filmmaker Rachel Dretzin (Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey) and actress Julie Dretzin (The Handmaid’s Tale), announced.
Merlin also portrayed the dance teacher Miss Berg in Alan Parker’s Fame (1980) and recurred as Judge Lena Petrovsky for more than a decade on NBC’s Law and Order: Svu.
Her acting résumé included the films Hester Street (1975), All That Jazz (1979), Baby It’s You (1983), The Killing Fields (1984), Mystic Pizza (1988), Class Action (1991) and City of Angels (1998) and such TV shows as Naked City, The Defenders, East Side/West Side, Homeland and The Good Wife.
Merlin cast the original Broadway productions of Sondheim’s Company,...
- 10/17/2023
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Spooky season is upon us and Max is getting in on the action.
New to the streamer in September are “Annabelle” (2014), “Annabelle: Creation” (2017) and “Annabelle Comes Home” (2019), as well as “The Curse of La Llorona” (2019) — all spin-offs from “The Conjuring” universe.
Other horror entries include “It” (2017), “It: Chapter Two” (2019), eight “Friday the 13th” films (from the 1980 cult classic to 1989’s “Jason Takes Manhattan”) and six “Children of the Corn” sequels.
As previously reported, over 200 episodes of AMC Networks’ television series are coming to Max in September at no additional cost to subscribers, spreading their availability beyond AMC+. Shows that are part of the partnership include “Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire” Season 1; ”Dark Winds” Season 1; “Gangs of London” Seasons 1 and 2; “Fear the Walking Dead” Seasons 1-7; “Killing Eve” Seasons 1-4; “A Discovery of Witches” Seasons 1-3; and “Ride with Norman Reedus” Seasons 1-5.
If fright flicks aren’t your thing,...
New to the streamer in September are “Annabelle” (2014), “Annabelle: Creation” (2017) and “Annabelle Comes Home” (2019), as well as “The Curse of La Llorona” (2019) — all spin-offs from “The Conjuring” universe.
Other horror entries include “It” (2017), “It: Chapter Two” (2019), eight “Friday the 13th” films (from the 1980 cult classic to 1989’s “Jason Takes Manhattan”) and six “Children of the Corn” sequels.
As previously reported, over 200 episodes of AMC Networks’ television series are coming to Max in September at no additional cost to subscribers, spreading their availability beyond AMC+. Shows that are part of the partnership include “Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire” Season 1; ”Dark Winds” Season 1; “Gangs of London” Seasons 1 and 2; “Fear the Walking Dead” Seasons 1-7; “Killing Eve” Seasons 1-4; “A Discovery of Witches” Seasons 1-3; and “Ride with Norman Reedus” Seasons 1-5.
If fright flicks aren’t your thing,...
- 9/1/2023
- by Lawrence Yee
- The Wrap
There’s an interesting experiment going on over at Max in September, as from the first of the month you’ll be able to find seven AMC+ series streaming for 60 days on the service. If you’ve been dying to check out some of their best shows but just haven’t had access to them, now’s your chance! Max will be streaming Fear the Walking Dead seasons 1-7, Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire season one, Dark Winds season one, Gangs of London seasons 1-2, Ride with Norman Reedus seasons 1-5, A Discovery of Witches seasons 1-3, and Killing Eve seasons 1-4.
Also on Max this September is the original animated series Young Love, a Matthew A. Cherry project which seeks to expand on the critically acclaimed short film, Hair Love. Sam Jay has a new stand-up special on HBO, too. Sam Jay: Salute or Shoot Me will...
Also on Max this September is the original animated series Young Love, a Matthew A. Cherry project which seeks to expand on the critically acclaimed short film, Hair Love. Sam Jay has a new stand-up special on HBO, too. Sam Jay: Salute or Shoot Me will...
- 9/1/2023
- by Kirsten Howard
- Den of Geek
The summer is nearly over! September has arrived, and for many in the United States that means a much-needed break from hot temperatures and sticky humidity.
There are a wealth of new titles coming to Max to celebrate the advent of fall this month. One of the splashiest Max-related news stories of the past month broke just this week, when it was announced that seven AMC titles were coming to the Warner Bros. Discovery streamer on Sept. 1.
That’s not all that’s coming to Max by a long shot this month, so check out The Streamable’s list of top shows and movies coming to the service, along with all the other titles that will soon be available with a Max subscription!
7-Day Free Trial $9.99+ / month Max via amazon.com
Get 20% Off Your Next Year of Max When Pre-Paid Annually
What Are the Five Best Shows and Movies Coming to...
There are a wealth of new titles coming to Max to celebrate the advent of fall this month. One of the splashiest Max-related news stories of the past month broke just this week, when it was announced that seven AMC titles were coming to the Warner Bros. Discovery streamer on Sept. 1.
That’s not all that’s coming to Max by a long shot this month, so check out The Streamable’s list of top shows and movies coming to the service, along with all the other titles that will soon be available with a Max subscription!
7-Day Free Trial $9.99+ / month Max via amazon.com
Get 20% Off Your Next Year of Max When Pre-Paid Annually
What Are the Five Best Shows and Movies Coming to...
- 8/30/2023
- by David Satin
- The Streamable
CBS has put in development multi-camera law school comedy Class Action, from Jay McGraw and Dr. Phil McGraw’s Stage 29 Productions, former Modern Family executive producer Dan O’Shannon, John Cochran (The Millers) and CBS Television Studios. Written by O’Shannon and Cochran, Class Action is based on Jay McGraw’s real-life experiences at a Texas University. A law student looking for the easy way out gets more than he bargained for when he finds himself in a class where he…...
- 12/1/2017
- Deadline TV
The life of a celebrity is often thought to be glamorous, highly appealing, and something that others envy in many different ways. The darker side of it however is that many celebrities hardly have a moment to themselves, as they are continually hounded by fans and journalists seeking the latest scoop. Unfortunately it also means that due to their status and wealth they are easier targets for class action suits that might seem frivolous and even silly at times. Many people will do anything they can to get ahead or to get what they think they are earned in some
20 Crazy Class Action Lawsuits Filed Against Celebrities...
20 Crazy Class Action Lawsuits Filed Against Celebrities...
- 5/28/2017
- by Nat Berman
- TVovermind.com
Did Mike manage to complete the Class Action?
That was thrown into question on Suits Season 6 Episode 15 when someone from the past appeared to cause some drama.
Watch Suits Season 6 Episode 15 Online
Meanwhile, Harvey, Louis and Rachel joined forces to try and find out some facts about the case that they could use in the courtroom.
Also, Donna and Benjamin looked for an investor to bring The Donna to a huge market.
View Slideshow: Quotables from Week Ending February 17, 2017
Use the video above to watch Suits online to get caught up on the latest drama for the characters. ...
That was thrown into question on Suits Season 6 Episode 15 when someone from the past appeared to cause some drama.
Watch Suits Season 6 Episode 15 Online
Meanwhile, Harvey, Louis and Rachel joined forces to try and find out some facts about the case that they could use in the courtroom.
Also, Donna and Benjamin looked for an investor to bring The Donna to a huge market.
View Slideshow: Quotables from Week Ending February 17, 2017
Use the video above to watch Suits online to get caught up on the latest drama for the characters. ...
- 2/23/2017
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
From Smashing Pumpkins to smashing punks, Billy Corgan plans to make an impact. The frontman and lead vocalist for the popular alternative rock band has been named President of Impact Ventures. Related: More Than 50 Wrestlers File Class Action Lawsuit Against WWE Corgan, a long-time wrestling fan, was formerly the Senior Producer of Creative and […]...
- 8/12/2016
- by Shakiel Mahjouri
- ET Canada
Anton Yelchin’s accidental death has contributed to a class-action lawsuit filed against Flat Chrysler — the manufacturer of the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee that pinned the actor in his driveway. Anton Yelchin Death Leads To Class Action Suit Against Jeep The lawsuit was filed in California on Thursday and reportedly claims that Chrysler has done […]
The post Anton Yelchin Death Leads To Class Action Lawsuit Against Flat Chrysler appeared first on uInterview.
The post Anton Yelchin Death Leads To Class Action Lawsuit Against Flat Chrysler appeared first on uInterview.
- 6/28/2016
- by Shantel Whitaker
- Uinterview
Exactly one year after the infamous Sony hack, former Sony VP, Global Commercial Planning and Innovation Amy Heller has sued the studio and other defendants for defamation, negligence and invasion of privacy. In the complaint, Heller is seeking multiple damages and unspecified compensation for loss of income, as well as claiming that Sony’s lack of secure systems caused her emotional distress. Heller, who was laid off in the spring of 2014, says the studio acted in a “deliberate, cold, callous, fraudulent, and intentional manner in order to injure and damage” her. Also Read: Sony Hack Class Action Settlement Approved by...
- 11/25/2015
- by Beatrice Verhoeven
- The Wrap
Nicollette Sheridan‘s legal battle against ABC over her firing from “Desperate Housewives” took a dramatic turn befitting of a script on the former soap on Tuesday. An appellate court panel overturned a lower court judge’s dismissal of the actress’ lawsuit alleging she was assaulted by creator Marc Cherry and written out of the show when she complained, according to the City News Service. In 2010, Sheridan began legal proceedings against ABC and Disney, producer Touchstone and Cherry, claiming he had struck her in the head during an argument on set. Also Read: Hollywood Studios, Netflix Named in Closed-Captioning Class Action...
- 10/21/2015
- by Debbie Emery
- The Wrap
The long awaited third expansion for Destiny is here, and it just might silence the haters...
Despite being one of the most successful titles of last year, with a rabid and huge fan base, Destiny took a lot of flak, even from fans. A lack of content, wafer thin story, and Dlc that failed to live up to expectations made for a love/hate relationship, and a game that quickly became too much grind, and not enough fun. Even as an avid fan of the game, I found myself only coming back to do the weekly Nightfall with friends, and even then we only did so when we weren't busy with other games.
With The Taken King, Bungie has high hopes that it'll address a lot of the complaints and issues with the game, and certainly hopes that it'll be a more enjoyable experience than the dreadfully repetitive and dull Prison of Elders.
Despite being one of the most successful titles of last year, with a rabid and huge fan base, Destiny took a lot of flak, even from fans. A lack of content, wafer thin story, and Dlc that failed to live up to expectations made for a love/hate relationship, and a game that quickly became too much grind, and not enough fun. Even as an avid fan of the game, I found myself only coming back to do the weekly Nightfall with friends, and even then we only did so when we weren't busy with other games.
With The Taken King, Bungie has high hopes that it'll address a lot of the complaints and issues with the game, and certainly hopes that it'll be a more enjoyable experience than the dreadfully repetitive and dull Prison of Elders.
- 9/21/2015
- by aaronbirch
- Den of Geek
Abercrombie & Fitch is facing a class action lawsuit from 62,000 of the store’s employees over their controversial Look Policy. Abercrombie & Fitch Faces Class Action Lawsuit Barely over one month after the Supreme Court ruled that Abercrombie & Fitch had discriminated against potential employee Samantha Elauf because she is Muslim, a California judge has […]
The post Abercrombie & Fitch Faces Class Action Lawsuit From 62,000 Employees For ‘Look Policy’ appeared first on uInterview.
The post Abercrombie & Fitch Faces Class Action Lawsuit From 62,000 Employees For ‘Look Policy’ appeared first on uInterview.
- 7/23/2015
- by Olivia Truffaut-Wong
- Uinterview
Malaysia may have banned “Fifty Shades of Grey,” but American audiences have long been anticipating the film adaptation of E.L. James‘ blockbuster novels, which hits theaters this Valentine’s Day weekend. Facebook compiled an exclusive “Fifty Shades” report for TheWrap to rank conversations about the movie on the social media site using likes, shares, comments and status updates to find out which states in the union are most looking forward to the film. The results may surprise you. Also Read: ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ Sex Lube Slapped With Class Action Lawsuit Against E.L. James, Manufacturer Also interesting in the Facebook...
- 2/10/2015
- by Matt Donnelly
- The Wrap
Those who think size matters have a reason to rejoice, as Universal and Focus Features will release “Fifty Shades of Grey” on 75 IMAX screens, meaning Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson are about to get super-sized. Also Read: ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ Sex Lube Slapped With Class Action Lawsuit Against E.L. James, Manufacturer IMAX Entertainment CEO Greg Foster told investors about the last-minute deal at the Stifel Technology, Internet & Media Conference on Monday, and a studio insider with knowledge of the negotiations confirmed that plans are underway for this coming weekend. Also Read: ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ Sex Toy Sales Bulging.
- 2/9/2015
- by Jeff Sneider
- The Wrap
Flying Burrito Brothers and Hot Tuna lawsuits raise question of protection for older recordings
Apple, Sony and Google have hit a bum note with their use of songs recorded prior to 1972, according to a flurry of lawsuits filed Thursday.
The trio of companies and others were hit with complaints in federal court in California by Zenbu Magazines LLC, which claims ownership rights to numerous songs by The Flying Burrito Brothers, New Riders of the Purple Sage and Hot Tuna.
Also Read: SiriusXM Sued by Warner Music, Sony Music, Capitol Records Over Pre-1972 Recordings
The class-action suit against Sony claims that...
Apple, Sony and Google have hit a bum note with their use of songs recorded prior to 1972, according to a flurry of lawsuits filed Thursday.
The trio of companies and others were hit with complaints in federal court in California by Zenbu Magazines LLC, which claims ownership rights to numerous songs by The Flying Burrito Brothers, New Riders of the Purple Sage and Hot Tuna.
Also Read: SiriusXM Sued by Warner Music, Sony Music, Capitol Records Over Pre-1972 Recordings
The class-action suit against Sony claims that...
- 1/23/2015
- by Tim Kenneally
- The Wrap
A California federal judge has approved a motion to combine seven class action lawsuits filed by Sony Pictures employees into one, according to court documents obtained by TheWrap.
The suits came after November’s studio hack, that dumped thousands of personal employee documents on filesharing sites including their medical records, social security numbers and emails.
“Consolidation will eliminate duplication of effort and make litigating the case more convenient and efficient for the parties and the Court,” the papers read. Sony, referred to as Spe, did not oppose the ruling.
See photos: Sony Hack Attack Timeline: From First Cyberbreach and Leaks...
The suits came after November’s studio hack, that dumped thousands of personal employee documents on filesharing sites including their medical records, social security numbers and emails.
“Consolidation will eliminate duplication of effort and make litigating the case more convenient and efficient for the parties and the Court,” the papers read. Sony, referred to as Spe, did not oppose the ruling.
See photos: Sony Hack Attack Timeline: From First Cyberbreach and Leaks...
- 1/14/2015
- by Matt Donnelly
- The Wrap
It’s been more than six weeks since hackers targeted Sony Pictures Entertainment in an attempt to stop the release of “The Interview,” and things are still not back to normal at the company. CEO Michael Lynton told the Associated Press the network will likely be down for another two to three weeks, while employees continue to be paid by paper checks.
It was an unprecedented attack that crippled the company, with escalating threats of violence if Sony didn’t stop the release of the Seth Rogen, James Franco comedy about the assassination of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. The...
It was an unprecedented attack that crippled the company, with escalating threats of violence if Sony didn’t stop the release of the Seth Rogen, James Franco comedy about the assassination of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. The...
- 1/9/2015
- by Jason Hughes
- The Wrap
Sony Corp. Chief Executive Kazuo Hirai visited the Culver City lot of Sony Pictures Entertainment Wednesday, and told executives and employees the company would emerge “stronger than ever” from last year’s devastating hacker attack.
He thanked employees for their response to the crisis in a memo to staffers and cited their “resourcefulness and creativity.”
Also Read: Former Sony Software Engineer Files Sixth Class Action Lawsuit
The studio was the target of a Nov. 24 cyber attack that U.S. officials have said the North Korean government orchestrated to block the release of the Seth Rogen-James Franco comedy “The Interview,...
He thanked employees for their response to the crisis in a memo to staffers and cited their “resourcefulness and creativity.”
Also Read: Former Sony Software Engineer Files Sixth Class Action Lawsuit
The studio was the target of a Nov. 24 cyber attack that U.S. officials have said the North Korean government orchestrated to block the release of the Seth Rogen-James Franco comedy “The Interview,...
- 1/8/2015
- by Todd Cunningham
- The Wrap
Sony Pictures Entertainment has been hit with yet another class action lawsuit following the November hack attack that crippled the studio and made thousands of current and former employees’ personal information vulnerable.
The latest suit was brought by Anastasio Garcia Rodriguez, who worked as a software engineer at Sony’s Culver City office from February 2011 to May 2013. It was filed in federal court in Los Angeles on Jan. 2.
Also Read: Sony Hack Attack Timeline: From First Cyberbreach and Leaks to ‘The Interview’ Release (Photos)
In legal papers obtained by TheWrap, the suit alleges Sony “knew or should have known that...
The latest suit was brought by Anastasio Garcia Rodriguez, who worked as a software engineer at Sony’s Culver City office from February 2011 to May 2013. It was filed in federal court in Los Angeles on Jan. 2.
Also Read: Sony Hack Attack Timeline: From First Cyberbreach and Leaks to ‘The Interview’ Release (Photos)
In legal papers obtained by TheWrap, the suit alleges Sony “knew or should have known that...
- 1/7/2015
- by Linda Ge
- The Wrap
ICM Partners settled a class-action lawsuit Tuesday filed by former unpaid interns, for an undisclosed amount of money.
The case was brought by plaintiffs Kimberly Behzadi and Jason Rindenau, who worked at ICM in 2012 and 2011, respectively. The lawsuit, filed in the District Court of the Southern District of New York, sought north of $5 million in damages from the talent agency.
Also Read: 15 Movies You Already Forgot About: TheWrap’s Best & Worst 2014 (Photos)
Initially seeking a jury trial, the plaintiffs agreed to engage in a private mediation on Oct 23, scheduling a session before Dina Jansenson on Dec 15. The suit alleged ICM...
The case was brought by plaintiffs Kimberly Behzadi and Jason Rindenau, who worked at ICM in 2012 and 2011, respectively. The lawsuit, filed in the District Court of the Southern District of New York, sought north of $5 million in damages from the talent agency.
Also Read: 15 Movies You Already Forgot About: TheWrap’s Best & Worst 2014 (Photos)
Initially seeking a jury trial, the plaintiffs agreed to engage in a private mediation on Oct 23, scheduling a session before Dina Jansenson on Dec 15. The suit alleged ICM...
- 12/23/2014
- by Linda Ge
- The Wrap
Jeff Chiu/AP
The lawsuit rumoured to be filed against the Ufc over the the last few days became a reality Monday, when a press conference was held with selected media members present to announce the suit. A class action (meaning it will represent not just a handful of fighters but all current and former Ufc fighters for the time period the lawsuit covers), it is without question the biggest legal action the Ufc has ever faced.
The suit alleges that the Ufc is running a monopoly and unfairly keeping pay rates down for fighters, and has once again brought the issue of fighter pay to the forefront. There’s no real surprise there, however, there are a lot of other surprises peppered throughout the suit. Everything from who is behind it (Mark Coleman was rumoured at one point, but that turned out not to be the case), who has since joined it,...
The lawsuit rumoured to be filed against the Ufc over the the last few days became a reality Monday, when a press conference was held with selected media members present to announce the suit. A class action (meaning it will represent not just a handful of fighters but all current and former Ufc fighters for the time period the lawsuit covers), it is without question the biggest legal action the Ufc has ever faced.
The suit alleges that the Ufc is running a monopoly and unfairly keeping pay rates down for fighters, and has once again brought the issue of fighter pay to the forefront. There’s no real surprise there, however, there are a lot of other surprises peppered throughout the suit. Everything from who is behind it (Mark Coleman was rumoured at one point, but that turned out not to be the case), who has since joined it,...
- 12/18/2014
- by Jay Anderson
- Obsessed with Film
2Nd Update, 3:49 Pm: Carmike yesterday became the first theater chain to announce that it was scrapping plans to screen The Interview. Now the Georgia-based exhibitor has released a statement: “The top priority for Carmike Cinemas is to ensure that our valued guests may enjoy the entertainment of their choosing in a safe and comfortable environment. Carmike must take threats against movie theatres very seriously and the recent unprecedented cyber-attacks against Sony Pictures are no exception. Therefore, in an abundance of caution, Carmike will delay the exhibition of The Interview. There are many additional excellent movie titles to choose from this holiday season, and we look forward to welcoming our patrons.”
Updated, 1:34 Pm: AMC and Cineplex has made their pulling of The Interview official. Said AMC: “As friends and families make plans for the upcoming holidays, AMC has received many questions about which movies we are playing in the weeks ahead.
Updated, 1:34 Pm: AMC and Cineplex has made their pulling of The Interview official. Said AMC: “As friends and families make plans for the upcoming holidays, AMC has received many questions about which movies we are playing in the weeks ahead.
- 12/17/2014
- by Jen Yamato and Dominic Patten
- Deadline
The “Late Show With David Letterman” probably won't be adding this to its Top 10 list of favorite situations. CBS and Worldwide Pants, the production company behind the “Late Show With David Letterman,” have been slapped with a class-action lawsuit by a woman who claims that she worked as an intern on the show, and was wrongfully denied wages and overtime pay. Also read: Marvel Entertainment Sued by Unpaid Intern in Class Action Wage Lawsuit In the suit, filed in the Supreme Court in New York on Thursday, Mallory Musallam says she was employed as a “Late Show” intern from September to.
- 9/8/2014
- by Tim Kenneally
- The Wrap
A former intern filed a class action lawsuit against Marvel Entertainment, LLC on Monday in the Supreme Court of the State of New York, claiming he was “wrongfully” classified and unfairly denied “minimum wages” while working for the company. According to the documents obtained by TheWrap, Kenneth Jackson of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, says he worked at Marvel from August 2008 through December of 2008. During that four-month period, Jackson claims the company incorrectly classified him as an intern and now owes him back pay. Also read: Dreamworks Animation Hit With Investor Class Action Lawsuit Over Financial Malfeasance Jackson's motion seeks to “recover unpaid minimum wages owed” and extends.
- 8/5/2014
- by Travis Reilly
- The Wrap
Time Warner Cable is offering free antennas to its customers who have had CBS blocked from their service in the protracted retransmission standoff between the two companies. Also read: Time Warner Cable Slapped With Class Action Suit Over CBS Blackout TWC announced on Friday that it has a limited number of free indoor antennas available to subscribers in the affected areas. Subscribers can pick up the antennas at Time Warner Cable locations in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area, Los Angeles/desert cities, New York City, Milwaukee and Green Bay. Also read: CBS' Les Moonves 'Frankly Mystified'...
- 8/23/2013
- by Tim Kenneally
- The Wrap
Suits fans are going to have to get used to saying the law firm’s new name — Pearson Darby — when the show returns Tuesday (10 p.m. Et on USA). Perhaps taking part in Suits Recruits: Class Action will help. The multi-platform social game will go live at http://www.suitsrecruits.com Tuesday afternoon and allow “self-proclaimed Suitors” to work with different members of Pearson Darby on a new case with one of the firm’s important clients, Wendigo. Suitors will be treated to more than 10 videos shot on the set of the show and scripted by its writers. We’ve...
- 7/16/2013
- by Mandi Bierly
- EW - Inside TV
by Joseph Leray
The next time you're a party, dazzle friends and potential love interests with your arcane knowledge of Microsoft obscuria: the original Xbox was almost called, among other the things, the Face, which stood for Full Action Center.
In an interview with Edge Magazine, Seamus Blackley -- who helped pitch, design, and create the Xbox -- explains that the naming process happened in three states: code names, car names, and acronyms
“First, there were our code names, which were Wep – ‘Windows Entertainment Project’ – designed to make Microsoft executives comfortable, Midway – ‘Midway between a PC and a console or ‘Battle of Midway’ – you decide" he says.
"The Wep" is an obviously terrible name for a console, and while the Microsoft Midway has a certain alliterative ring to it, Midway Games was still alive (though maybe not well) in the late 90's and early aughts. The "NFL Blitz" and "Mortal...
The next time you're a party, dazzle friends and potential love interests with your arcane knowledge of Microsoft obscuria: the original Xbox was almost called, among other the things, the Face, which stood for Full Action Center.
In an interview with Edge Magazine, Seamus Blackley -- who helped pitch, design, and create the Xbox -- explains that the naming process happened in three states: code names, car names, and acronyms
“First, there were our code names, which were Wep – ‘Windows Entertainment Project’ – designed to make Microsoft executives comfortable, Midway – ‘Midway between a PC and a console or ‘Battle of Midway’ – you decide" he says.
"The Wep" is an obviously terrible name for a console, and while the Microsoft Midway has a certain alliterative ring to it, Midway Games was still alive (though maybe not well) in the late 90's and early aughts. The "NFL Blitz" and "Mortal...
- 7/8/2013
- by MTV Video Games
- MTV Multiplayer
A former intern of Warner Music Group Corp. filed a Class Action Complaint Monday in New York County Supreme Court against the company for unpaid wages from Oct. 2007 to May 2008. Justin Henry -- through his attorneys Virginia & Ambinder -- is accusing Wmg subsidiary Atlantic Recording Corp. of withholding wages from him and other employees beginning in or around June 2007. The suit, obtained by TheWrap, states that Wmg has "failed to provide compensation at the statutory minimum wage for all hours worked." It also accuses the defendant of not...
- 6/17/2013
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
We've all got to do our part to help with the Scotus situation today, kids. I know I'm doing mine: Here are eight fabulous female performanes in courtroom movies to inspire you for the day ahead. Even if they drive younuts, you still qualify to look glamorously insane like Frances Farmer.
1. Meryl Streep in Kramer vs. Kramer
Joanna Kramer ditched her family not because she was bored of parenting (which I would've completely understood), but because her despair was so significant that she felt it best to remove herself from the home she shared with her obnoxious husband and tolerable son. Later, when she wanted custody of the scamp, she delivered a tearful monologue about painting clouds on bedroom walls and the misery of the Kramer household, concluding with the defiant line, "I am his mother." Meryl famously wrote most of this great soliloquy, and knowing Meryl's talents, she probably also sewed her own costume,...
1. Meryl Streep in Kramer vs. Kramer
Joanna Kramer ditched her family not because she was bored of parenting (which I would've completely understood), but because her despair was so significant that she felt it best to remove herself from the home she shared with her obnoxious husband and tolerable son. Later, when she wanted custody of the scamp, she delivered a tearful monologue about painting clouds on bedroom walls and the misery of the Kramer household, concluding with the defiant line, "I am his mother." Meryl famously wrote most of this great soliloquy, and knowing Meryl's talents, she probably also sewed her own costume,...
- 3/27/2013
- by virtel
- The Backlot
It's been difficult for plenty of our actors to single our their favorite behind-the-scenes moments on their respective shows, but what happens when you're one of the hottest TV directors in Hollywood? We asked Norman Buckley--who's directed for Gossip Girl, Pretty Little Liars, and The O.C., among many, many others--to play Three Scenes with us, and in his own words below, he explains the many joys of creating television magic by going off-script.
Most Challenging: Risky Business (From The O.C. Season 2, Episode 18 "The Risky Business")
Many scenes are challenging to shoot for various reasons, but this was from my very first TV directing experience. Josh Schwartz wrote a complicated action sequence for me; I guess he decided to throw me in the deep end to see if I could swim. In the episode, Ryan and Seth go to retrieve a stolen crystal egg from the movie Risky Business while...
Most Challenging: Risky Business (From The O.C. Season 2, Episode 18 "The Risky Business")
Many scenes are challenging to shoot for various reasons, but this was from my very first TV directing experience. Josh Schwartz wrote a complicated action sequence for me; I guess he decided to throw me in the deep end to see if I could swim. In the episode, Ryan and Seth go to retrieve a stolen crystal egg from the movie Risky Business while...
- 2/26/2013
- by Terron R. Moore
- TVology
The team of Rizzoli & Isles are returning to TV screens on Tuesday, November 27th, reports The Futon Critic.
TNT's crime drama ended its summer run on August 14th after 10 episodes. The remaining five episodes of season three will begin airing in November and likely finish on Christmas. Epiosde 11 is titled "Class Action Satisfaction."
To date, season three of Rizzoli & Isles has averaged a 1.3 rating in the 18-49 demographic with 5.43 million total viewers.
The TNT series was renewed for a fourth season of 15 episodes back in late June and those are expected to begin running next summer.
What do you think? Are you looking forward to the return of Rizzoli & Isles? Would you prefer that all 15 episodes run at once, into September?
Amazon.com Widgets ...
TNT's crime drama ended its summer run on August 14th after 10 episodes. The remaining five episodes of season three will begin airing in November and likely finish on Christmas. Epiosde 11 is titled "Class Action Satisfaction."
To date, season three of Rizzoli & Isles has averaged a 1.3 rating in the 18-49 demographic with 5.43 million total viewers.
The TNT series was renewed for a fourth season of 15 episodes back in late June and those are expected to begin running next summer.
What do you think? Are you looking forward to the return of Rizzoli & Isles? Would you prefer that all 15 episodes run at once, into September?
Amazon.com Widgets ...
- 9/3/2012
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
Associated Press The next public words we hear from Saints coach Sean Payton, above, and general manager Mickey Loomis will be the first.
What will the law say about the New Orleans Saints scandal? Why is a Michigan man suing a theater for high concession prices? And are the incomes of one percenters actually falling? A look at the most interesting stories from the Wall Street Journal family of blogs.
What Will the Law Say About the Saints?: It...
What will the law say about the New Orleans Saints scandal? Why is a Michigan man suing a theater for high concession prices? And are the incomes of one percenters actually falling? A look at the most interesting stories from the Wall Street Journal family of blogs.
What Will the Law Say About the Saints?: It...
- 3/6/2012
- by Christopher John Farley
- Speakeasy/Wall Street Journal
So a woman in Michigan is suing the distributors of "Drive," the artsy, violent Ryan Gosling vehicle (get it?), because she says it was advertised as being "very similar to the 'Fast and Furious,' or similar, series of movies."
While other outlets are decrying the lawsuit as "idiotic" and "moronic" and "symbolic of everything that's wrong with America," let us play devil's advocate and put our support behind this brave champion of justice.
In fact, let's take it a step further and give you valiant legal eagles out there 10 more movies (actually, the top 10 in America this weekend) to sue, along with opening claims. Just check with your lawyers first.
(Warning: Spoilers Ahead.)
'Real Steel'
There's not enough robot blood. You expected Rock 'Em Sock 'Em Robots to the Max, a movie set in a future where humanity is so vicious and bent on decapitation as...
While other outlets are decrying the lawsuit as "idiotic" and "moronic" and "symbolic of everything that's wrong with America," let us play devil's advocate and put our support behind this brave champion of justice.
In fact, let's take it a step further and give you valiant legal eagles out there 10 more movies (actually, the top 10 in America this weekend) to sue, along with opening claims. Just check with your lawyers first.
(Warning: Spoilers Ahead.)
'Real Steel'
There's not enough robot blood. You expected Rock 'Em Sock 'Em Robots to the Max, a movie set in a future where humanity is so vicious and bent on decapitation as...
- 10/10/2011
- by Kevin Polowy
- NextMovie
A new legal shoe has dropped in the scandal surrounding Three Cups of Tea author Greg Mortenson. A suit charges him and his charity, the Central Asia Institute, with fraud, deceit, and civil racketeering. Plus, view the court filing below.
Another legal shoe has dropped in the scandal surrounding disgraced humanitarian Greg Mortenson-this time in the form of a lawsuit that seeks the return of donations and damages on behalf of donors to his charity, the Central Asia Institute (Cai). One of the two plaintiffs wants her donation back-and the other a $12 refund for her copy of the book.
Related story on The Daily Beast: Should We Hit Gaddafi Next?
In a sign of how Mortenson's fall from grace is roiling former fans in his home state of Montana, where Cai is based, both plaintiffs, Michele Reinhart and Jean Price, are state Democratic legislators in Missoula.
Mortenson rocketed to celebrity...
Another legal shoe has dropped in the scandal surrounding disgraced humanitarian Greg Mortenson-this time in the form of a lawsuit that seeks the return of donations and damages on behalf of donors to his charity, the Central Asia Institute (Cai). One of the two plaintiffs wants her donation back-and the other a $12 refund for her copy of the book.
Related story on The Daily Beast: Should We Hit Gaddafi Next?
In a sign of how Mortenson's fall from grace is roiling former fans in his home state of Montana, where Cai is based, both plaintiffs, Michele Reinhart and Jean Price, are state Democratic legislators in Missoula.
Mortenson rocketed to celebrity...
- 5/6/2011
- by Mike Giglio
- The Daily Beast
There are dragons in Narnia? Well I'll be damned. Yet another new full-length international trailer for Fox's The Chronicles of Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn Treader debuted yesterday and I was just convinced to post it by @equustel on Twitter, mostly because of that dragon fight at the end. This actually looks really good, I mean like really, really good - I want to see it! This seems like one of those great fantasy adventures, but there's something much more appealing about this than the other two movies. Did Fox actually take this franchise right out from under Disney and make it better than its been before? Take a look yourself. Enjoy! Watch the international trailer for Michael Apted's Chronicles of Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn Treader: The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader is directed by British filmmaker Michael Apted, of films like Class Action,...
- 10/8/2010
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
Fox debuted a second, shorter trailer for Chronicles of Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn Treader on the recently released DVD of Diary of a Wimpy Kid, which is now online from Narnia Fans (via BleedingCool). The first full-length trailer we featured back in June was a lot longer and contained more footage, but I like this trailer because it initially takes a more focused approach towards Lucy and her "Book of Incantations" before showing us more of the actual Dawn Treader ship and the adventure all four siblings will be going on. I'm still kind of interested in checking this out, but who knows how many others will even go out and see it. Watch the second trailer for Michael Apted's Chronicles of Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn Treader: The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader is directed by British filmmaker Michael Apted, of films like Class Action,...
- 8/5/2010
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
In addition to that gloriously posed photo of Reepicheep (now voiced by Simon Pegg!) above, Narnia Fans has also unveiled a fairly epic teaser poster for The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader that I thought was worth featuring. The first full trailer for Voyage of the Dawn Treader debuted back in June and looked quite good, I have to say. But I'm not the biggest Narnia fan and I'm worried about this being any good, since the first two weren't my favorites. Despite the rather shabby CGI on the poster, I like that they're going big and bold with this. I'm hoping they can find the right audiences for it. Take a look! The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader is directed by British filmmaker Michael Apted, of films like Class Action, Thunderheart, Extreme Measures, The World Is Not Enough, Amazing Grace and...
- 7/30/2010
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
Today is graduation day at The School of the Future, a high school started in 2006 by Microsoft as part of its U.S. Partners in Learning program and the School District of Philadelphia. We covered the school in 2007, while this graduating class was in its sophomore year (there they call it "second-year"). How have the students fared in this experimental new environment? We talked with Partners in Learning executive director Mary Cullinane to find out.
Out of the 156 students who started school in 2006, 117 are graduating today and 30 transferred away, which leaves only nine students who dropped out. That's better than the national graduation rate of 67% (for economically challenged West Philadelphia, where most of the students are from, it's a bit lower). But there's a still more impressive stat: Of the 117 who are graduating today, all have college plans, whether it's two-year technical school or a four-year state school. "In an...
Out of the 156 students who started school in 2006, 117 are graduating today and 30 transferred away, which leaves only nine students who dropped out. That's better than the national graduation rate of 67% (for economically challenged West Philadelphia, where most of the students are from, it's a bit lower). But there's a still more impressive stat: Of the 117 who are graduating today, all have college plans, whether it's two-year technical school or a four-year state school. "In an...
- 6/15/2010
- by Alissa Walker
- Fast Company
Paris Hilton has become the subject of a $34 million (£22.6 million) class action lawsuit after reportedly failing to show up for a series of scheduled appearances in Italy and Germany over the weekend (11-12Sep09).
Promoters booked the socialite to appear at a number of industry events, but mysterious circumstances led to Hilton refusing to attend them. She snubbed one party in Frankfurt, Germany, where she was expected to be a guest of Hungarian royal Frederic Prinz von Anhalt's adopted son Marcus.
The bosses of top store Mediastar, where Hilton was supposed to appear on Saturday afternoon to choose the winner of a contest, are suing the socialite for $7.3 million (GBP4.8 million) and now it looks as if others she let down are following suit.
German newspaper Bild reports a $34 million class action suit is planned.
Michael Marx, who organised the events in Germany, tells the publication, "Mediastar is not alone with the lawsuit. Paris Hilton also pulled out of appearances in Italy, postponed flights, threw the whole programme over.
"After examination of all the facts and contracts it (suit) can even become more than 23 million Euros ($34 million)."
However, Hilton has hit back at the claims, insisting she was misled by promoters into making the agreement.
A spokesperson for the star says, “On arriving in Germany Miss Hilton’s security visited the ‘night club’ booked for the appearance and discovered it was a strip club, the venue had been misrepresented to Miss Hilton by the talent promoters. Miss Hilton does not support or endorse strip clubs and this type of establishment.
"Given this blatant and exploitive misrepresentation, the promoters were in material breach of their contract and Miss Hilton was, consequently, excused from further obligation to appear and instead remained in the privacy of her hotel. Any other reports of events from this night are fabricated and false.
"Miss Hilton did honour the remainder of her agreement with the promoters and attended the additional three events in Italy."...
Promoters booked the socialite to appear at a number of industry events, but mysterious circumstances led to Hilton refusing to attend them. She snubbed one party in Frankfurt, Germany, where she was expected to be a guest of Hungarian royal Frederic Prinz von Anhalt's adopted son Marcus.
The bosses of top store Mediastar, where Hilton was supposed to appear on Saturday afternoon to choose the winner of a contest, are suing the socialite for $7.3 million (GBP4.8 million) and now it looks as if others she let down are following suit.
German newspaper Bild reports a $34 million class action suit is planned.
Michael Marx, who organised the events in Germany, tells the publication, "Mediastar is not alone with the lawsuit. Paris Hilton also pulled out of appearances in Italy, postponed flights, threw the whole programme over.
"After examination of all the facts and contracts it (suit) can even become more than 23 million Euros ($34 million)."
However, Hilton has hit back at the claims, insisting she was misled by promoters into making the agreement.
A spokesperson for the star says, “On arriving in Germany Miss Hilton’s security visited the ‘night club’ booked for the appearance and discovered it was a strip club, the venue had been misrepresented to Miss Hilton by the talent promoters. Miss Hilton does not support or endorse strip clubs and this type of establishment.
"Given this blatant and exploitive misrepresentation, the promoters were in material breach of their contract and Miss Hilton was, consequently, excused from further obligation to appear and instead remained in the privacy of her hotel. Any other reports of events from this night are fabricated and false.
"Miss Hilton did honour the remainder of her agreement with the promoters and attended the additional three events in Italy."...
- 9/16/2009
- WENN
A kerfuffle hit the Internets on Friday, as news that Amazon had remotely wiped thousands of copies of 1984 and Animal Farm from people's Kindle e-readers hit. As with many Internet rumors though, it entirely missed the point.
Independent publisher MobileReference was behind the issue--it had copies of the two George Orwell classics on sale via Amazon's Kindle bookstore for a bargain price of $0.99. But, after several thousand copies had been sold, Amazon discovered that the copyright of the two works was in question, and that MobileReference wasn't authorized to distribute the two texts in the U.S.--despite their copyright having long expired in other countries. So Amazon did what it could--far more than a physical bookstore would do if it found itself in a similar situation--it issued a command to delete the offending copies on its user's devices and refund their money.
And that's what caused the blogs to explode with witty headlines.
Independent publisher MobileReference was behind the issue--it had copies of the two George Orwell classics on sale via Amazon's Kindle bookstore for a bargain price of $0.99. But, after several thousand copies had been sold, Amazon discovered that the copyright of the two works was in question, and that MobileReference wasn't authorized to distribute the two texts in the U.S.--despite their copyright having long expired in other countries. So Amazon did what it could--far more than a physical bookstore would do if it found itself in a similar situation--it issued a command to delete the offending copies on its user's devices and refund their money.
And that's what caused the blogs to explode with witty headlines.
- 7/20/2009
- by Kit Eaton
- Fast Company
Amazon's Kindle may be selling incredibly well and transforming the publishing world, but it looks like some users are finding its build quality lacking. A $5 million class action has just been targeted at Amazon, in fact.
The suit centers on Kindle 2s that were also bought with Amazon's optional $30 protective case. This fastens onto the white plastic body of the Kindle with a set of metal clips. According to the person who filed the suit, Matthew Geise, after only about three months the Kindle he'd bought for his wife began to crack around or underneath the point where these clips squeeze its body. In just two months the cracks grew significantly and then obviously transferred some stress onto the device's internals because the screen corrupted and froze and the entire device stopped working (pictured.)
A quick trawl of Amazon's own Kindle review section shows that the same or similar problems...
The suit centers on Kindle 2s that were also bought with Amazon's optional $30 protective case. This fastens onto the white plastic body of the Kindle with a set of metal clips. According to the person who filed the suit, Matthew Geise, after only about three months the Kindle he'd bought for his wife began to crack around or underneath the point where these clips squeeze its body. In just two months the cracks grew significantly and then obviously transferred some stress onto the device's internals because the screen corrupted and froze and the entire device stopped working (pictured.)
A quick trawl of Amazon's own Kindle review section shows that the same or similar problems...
- 7/15/2009
- by Kit Eaton
- Fast Company
On hand to pitch his new TNT cop drama "Dark Blue" to media buyers Wednesday, Dylan McDermott posed a hypothetical question that could prove the underlying theme for the 2009 upfront.
"How long can you pretend to be something before you become it?" McDermott asked onstage at the Turner upfront presentation. And while he was referring to his character, a two-fisted undercover cop, the actor might as well have been talking about his new home network.
TNT has spent the past few years trying to erase the distinction between broadcast and cable television. To hammer home the point that it functions as a sixth broadcast network, the cabler scheduled its upfront in the heart of the broadcast upfront week and packed it with A-list talent.
TNT unveiled a drama slate that includes projects from Steven Spielberg, Steven Bochco, "Roseanne" creator Matt Williams and the husband-and-wife team of Kyra Sedgwick and Kevin Bacon.
"How long can you pretend to be something before you become it?" McDermott asked onstage at the Turner upfront presentation. And while he was referring to his character, a two-fisted undercover cop, the actor might as well have been talking about his new home network.
TNT has spent the past few years trying to erase the distinction between broadcast and cable television. To hammer home the point that it functions as a sixth broadcast network, the cabler scheduled its upfront in the heart of the broadcast upfront week and packed it with A-list talent.
TNT unveiled a drama slate that includes projects from Steven Spielberg, Steven Bochco, "Roseanne" creator Matt Williams and the husband-and-wife team of Kyra Sedgwick and Kevin Bacon.
- 5/20/2009
- by By Anthony Crupi and Nellie Andreeva
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Chris Young was a 2007 National League All-Star pitching excellently for the Padres who became a 2008 YouTube All-Star taking an Albert Pujols line drive to the face. In the 2009, he's got something else on his mind: justice. Perhaps influenced by his wife, fellow Princeton grad and current law student Elizabeth Patrick (granddaughter of Lester Patrick, who was the namesake of the National Hockey League's Patrick Division and the Lester Patrick Trophy), Young recently chose to vocalize what most non-performance enhancing drug taking players have been thinking for a while, which is, the statistically inflated drug-taking cheats have been stealing their money! Usually the one bringing the heat, Young's honesty has put him on the hot seat. When I spoke with him by telephone, the Padres right-hander made an even more courageous pitch for fairness in...
- 3/25/2009
- by Dave Hollander
- Huffington Post
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