Welcome to the island of St Jory, population: one less than there used to be.
A year ago, St Jory teenager Cai Prideaux went missing and the police did very little about it. Now there’s a new sheriff in town in Sgt Grace Narayan (Anjli Mohindra), an outsider with an unbending belief in the letter of the law that’s ruffling feathers among the locals. The islanders, you see, are used to running things their own way. The True Way.
That’s the Hot Fuzz-meets-The Wicker Man premise for The Red King, an original six-part series written by Being Human creator Toby Whithouse and directed by Daniel O’Hara and Lisa Clarke. It’s a crime drama/folk horror mash-up that uses murder mystery trappings to tell a story about religion, insularity and national identity.
St Jory is your typical folk horror island in that there’s nothing typical about it.
A year ago, St Jory teenager Cai Prideaux went missing and the police did very little about it. Now there’s a new sheriff in town in Sgt Grace Narayan (Anjli Mohindra), an outsider with an unbending belief in the letter of the law that’s ruffling feathers among the locals. The islanders, you see, are used to running things their own way. The True Way.
That’s the Hot Fuzz-meets-The Wicker Man premise for The Red King, an original six-part series written by Being Human creator Toby Whithouse and directed by Daniel O’Hara and Lisa Clarke. It’s a crime drama/folk horror mash-up that uses murder mystery trappings to tell a story about religion, insularity and national identity.
St Jory is your typical folk horror island in that there’s nothing typical about it.
- 4/24/2024
- by Louisa Mellor
- Den of Geek
The crime drama Bergerac – a massive BBC One hit in the 1980s, starring John Nettles – is being rebooted. Here are the details.
Bergerac is back. Created by Doctor Who writer Robert Banks Stewart, the original series starred John Nettles and ran for nine series between 1981 and 1991. It became one of the biggest hits on the BBC schedules, all set on the island of Jersey.
The new version will give the show a “contemporary twist, as Bergerac is thrown into a knotty, high-stakes police investigation and challenged to his very core. He will be forced to confront his demons, while trying to save his family and career”.
The six-part UKTV Original series will be produced by BlackLight TV, part of Banijay UK, and written by Being Human creator Toby Whithouse, alongside Brian Fillis, Catherine Tregenna and Polly Buckle.
In a departure from the original show, the writers will weave one murder...
Bergerac is back. Created by Doctor Who writer Robert Banks Stewart, the original series starred John Nettles and ran for nine series between 1981 and 1991. It became one of the biggest hits on the BBC schedules, all set on the island of Jersey.
The new version will give the show a “contemporary twist, as Bergerac is thrown into a knotty, high-stakes police investigation and challenged to his very core. He will be forced to confront his demons, while trying to save his family and career”.
The six-part UKTV Original series will be produced by BlackLight TV, part of Banijay UK, and written by Being Human creator Toby Whithouse, alongside Brian Fillis, Catherine Tregenna and Polly Buckle.
In a departure from the original show, the writers will weave one murder...
- 4/15/2024
- by Jake Godfrey
- Film Stories
There’s much more to Nighy than playing grumpy but lovable men – think Pinter, Palace and Pokémon to name just three. Get your questions in by 10am on Thursday
When it comes to grumpy but lovable men, Bill Nighy has it nailed. He plays Simon Pegg’s grumpy zombie step-dad in Shaun of the Dead with lovable charm, and washed-up grumpy rockstar Billy Mack in Love Actually, for which he won a Bafta for best supporting actor. In 2006, he won a Golden Globe for TV movie Gideon’s Daughter where he plays an, um, grumpy publicist on the verge of a nervous breakdown. In 2022, he was nominated for an Oscar for Living in which he plays an, erm, grumpy 1950s bureaucrat. He plays a grumpy vampire elder in the Underworld series and, less grumpy because he’s near immortal, Davy Jones in Pirates of the Caribbean. He’s fairly grumpy also...
When it comes to grumpy but lovable men, Bill Nighy has it nailed. He plays Simon Pegg’s grumpy zombie step-dad in Shaun of the Dead with lovable charm, and washed-up grumpy rockstar Billy Mack in Love Actually, for which he won a Bafta for best supporting actor. In 2006, he won a Golden Globe for TV movie Gideon’s Daughter where he plays an, um, grumpy publicist on the verge of a nervous breakdown. In 2022, he was nominated for an Oscar for Living in which he plays an, erm, grumpy 1950s bureaucrat. He plays a grumpy vampire elder in the Underworld series and, less grumpy because he’s near immortal, Davy Jones in Pirates of the Caribbean. He’s fairly grumpy also...
- 3/13/2024
- by Rich Pelley
- The Guardian - Film News
A decade ago, Gerard Depardieu played a character inspired by Dominique Strauss-Kahn — the disgraced former head of the International Monetary Fund who was accused of assaulting a hotel maid — in Abel Ferrara’s “Welcome to New York.” In an ironic twist, the iconic French actor has now become the poster boy for the country’s #MeToo movement, having been charged with rape and faced with over a dozen sexual assault allegations.
But the French remain divided over him due to his profile as a mascot of the country’s cinematic history. He’s starred in over 150 films, including classics such as Jean-Paul Rappeneau’s “Cyrano de Bergerac,” François Truffaut’s “Le Dernier Metro” and Bertrand Blier’s “Going Places.” However, the tide is starting to shift — while French President Emmanuel Macron refused to revoke his Legion of Honor, the Paris wax museum went ahead and removed his statue on Dec.
But the French remain divided over him due to his profile as a mascot of the country’s cinematic history. He’s starred in over 150 films, including classics such as Jean-Paul Rappeneau’s “Cyrano de Bergerac,” François Truffaut’s “Le Dernier Metro” and Bertrand Blier’s “Going Places.” However, the tide is starting to shift — while French President Emmanuel Macron refused to revoke his Legion of Honor, the Paris wax museum went ahead and removed his statue on Dec.
- 1/11/2024
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Texas Congressman Joaquin Castro has nominated 27 Latino-driven films for inclusion in the National Film Registry. Among the suggestions are films that brought Oscar nominations to Latino actors and artists, including Salma Hayek, as Mexican artist Frida Kahlo in “Frida” (2002); Catalina Sandino Moreno, who portrayed a desperate undocumented pregnant immigrant in “Maria Full of Grace” (2004) and Demián Bichir, who played an undocumented worker in Los Angeles in “A Better Life” (2011). All were nominated for lead acting Oscars.
Other notable titles nominated by the congressman are Peter Sollett’s coming-of-age indie “Raising Victor Vargas,” Alfonso Arau’s romantic drama “Like Water for Chocolate (1992) and Darnell Martin’s “I Like It Like That” (1994), a story of a Puerto Rican family in the Bronx.
“Given the film industry’s continued exclusion of Latinos, we must make a special effort to ensure that Latino Americans’ contributions to American filmmaking are appropriately celebrated and included in the National Film Registry,...
Other notable titles nominated by the congressman are Peter Sollett’s coming-of-age indie “Raising Victor Vargas,” Alfonso Arau’s romantic drama “Like Water for Chocolate (1992) and Darnell Martin’s “I Like It Like That” (1994), a story of a Puerto Rican family in the Bronx.
“Given the film industry’s continued exclusion of Latinos, we must make a special effort to ensure that Latino Americans’ contributions to American filmmaking are appropriately celebrated and included in the National Film Registry,...
- 8/21/2023
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
Warning: contains spoilers for the Black Mirror episode “Loch Henry”
“Pretty wee thing you’ve captured.” So says Janet McArdle to her son about his new girlfriend on first meeting her. Janet, a walking cardigan with a tiny voice, turns out to know a thing or two about capture…
Played by Monica Dolan in her second Black Mirror role after season five’s “Smithereens”, Janet lives alone, surrounded by kitsch ornaments and home-recorded VHS tapes of 1980s cosy crime series Bergerac, in the remote Scottish town of Loch Henry. She’s been a widow since the death of her police officer husband Kenny years earlier. When her student filmmaker son Davis (Samuel Blenkin) and his partner Pia (Myha’la Herrold) visit from London, it’s clear how unexciting and provincial they find Janet and her lifestyle. If only they knew.
Over the course of “Loch Henry”, Davis and Pia find out exactly who Janet is,...
“Pretty wee thing you’ve captured.” So says Janet McArdle to her son about his new girlfriend on first meeting her. Janet, a walking cardigan with a tiny voice, turns out to know a thing or two about capture…
Played by Monica Dolan in her second Black Mirror role after season five’s “Smithereens”, Janet lives alone, surrounded by kitsch ornaments and home-recorded VHS tapes of 1980s cosy crime series Bergerac, in the remote Scottish town of Loch Henry. She’s been a widow since the death of her police officer husband Kenny years earlier. When her student filmmaker son Davis (Samuel Blenkin) and his partner Pia (Myha’la Herrold) visit from London, it’s clear how unexciting and provincial they find Janet and her lifestyle. If only they knew.
Over the course of “Loch Henry”, Davis and Pia find out exactly who Janet is,...
- 6/15/2023
- by Louisa Mellor
- Den of Geek
In 1973, the killer of Welsh teenagers Sandra Newton, Pauline Flynn and Gwendoline Hughes was not caught, despite a high-profile and widespread investigation by South Wales Police. The girls’ families spent the next three decades not knowing who was responsible for brutally taking the lives of their loved ones, or whether he still lived alongside them in the local Neath and Port Talbot communities.
In 2002, a development in forensics changed everything. The cold case was reopened with much pared-down resources, and crime scene DNA was successfully used to identify Wales’ first recorded serial killer. Steeltown Murders is the story of the loss, guilt and suspicion that followed the 1970s murders, and of the perseverance of the officers who were eventually able to provide the victims’ families with the answers they’d been denied years before.
Here are the actors making up the cast behind Steeltown Murders‘ dramatisation of real-life figures and events.
In 2002, a development in forensics changed everything. The cold case was reopened with much pared-down resources, and crime scene DNA was successfully used to identify Wales’ first recorded serial killer. Steeltown Murders is the story of the loss, guilt and suspicion that followed the 1970s murders, and of the perseverance of the officers who were eventually able to provide the victims’ families with the answers they’d been denied years before.
Here are the actors making up the cast behind Steeltown Murders‘ dramatisation of real-life figures and events.
- 5/15/2023
- by Louisa Mellor
- Den of Geek
Gordon Pinsent, the prolific Canadian actor and writer-director who starred opposite Julie Christie in Sarah Polley’s “Away From Her,” died Saturday. He was 92.
According to multiple media reports, his family released a statement to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation announcing that he passed away in his sleep. No other details were provided.
“Gordon Pinsent’s daughters Leah, and Beverly, and his son Barry, would like to announce the passing of their father peacefully in sleep today with his family at his side,” his son-in-law Peter Keleghan confirmed wrote. “Gordon passionately loved this country and its people, purpose, and culture to his last breath.”
Also Read:
Thomas H. Lee, Billionaire Who Led Warner Music Buyout in 2004, Dies at 78
With more than 150 credits to his name, Pinsent was known for starring in projects like “Away From Her” (2006), for which he earned several nominations and a Genie Award, among others. Some of his...
According to multiple media reports, his family released a statement to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation announcing that he passed away in his sleep. No other details were provided.
“Gordon Pinsent’s daughters Leah, and Beverly, and his son Barry, would like to announce the passing of their father peacefully in sleep today with his family at his side,” his son-in-law Peter Keleghan confirmed wrote. “Gordon passionately loved this country and its people, purpose, and culture to his last breath.”
Also Read:
Thomas H. Lee, Billionaire Who Led Warner Music Buyout in 2004, Dies at 78
With more than 150 credits to his name, Pinsent was known for starring in projects like “Away From Her” (2006), for which he earned several nominations and a Genie Award, among others. Some of his...
- 2/26/2023
- by Harper Lambert
- The Wrap
Gordon Pinsent, a prolific Canadian actor who gained international recognition in 2006 for his performance alongside Julie Christie in Sarah Polley’s drama “Away From Her,” died Saturday. He was 92 years old.
Pinsent’s death was confirmed to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation through a statement released by his family. No further details about his death are available at this time.
“Gordon Pinsent’s daughters, Leah and Beverly, and his son, Barry, would like to announce the passing of their father peacefully in sleep today with his family at his side,” reads a note written on behalf of Pinsent’s family by his son-in-law, Peter Keleghan. “Gordon passionately loved this country and its people, purpose and culture to his last breath.”
With more than 150 film and television acting credits, Pinsent’s career spanned seven decades and made him a household name in his native country. His role as a husband losing his...
Pinsent’s death was confirmed to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation through a statement released by his family. No further details about his death are available at this time.
“Gordon Pinsent’s daughters, Leah and Beverly, and his son, Barry, would like to announce the passing of their father peacefully in sleep today with his family at his side,” reads a note written on behalf of Pinsent’s family by his son-in-law, Peter Keleghan. “Gordon passionately loved this country and its people, purpose and culture to his last breath.”
With more than 150 film and television acting credits, Pinsent’s career spanned seven decades and made him a household name in his native country. His role as a husband losing his...
- 2/26/2023
- by J. Kim Murphy
- Variety Film + TV
Since 1988, the Library of Congress has selected 25 films each year as new additions to the National Film Registry in order to be preserved for their historical, cultural, and aesthetic contributions to American culture. The United States National Film Preservation Board has included a wide selection of movies since its inception that range from classic films to newsreels to music videos to documentaries. There are even student films and home movies included among the collection.
This year, the selections highlight the diversity of filmmakers in America by including at least 15 projects directed or co-directed by filmmakers of color, women, or LGBTQ+ people. For example, home movies from jazz, blues, and swing pioneer Cab Calloway are included in the latest wave of inductees, along with an 1898 documentary about the Mardi Gras Carnival and the 1950 adaptation of "Cyrano de Bergerac," which propelled José Ferrer to become the first Latinx actor to win an Academy Award for Best Actor.
This year, the selections highlight the diversity of filmmakers in America by including at least 15 projects directed or co-directed by filmmakers of color, women, or LGBTQ+ people. For example, home movies from jazz, blues, and swing pioneer Cab Calloway are included in the latest wave of inductees, along with an 1898 documentary about the Mardi Gras Carnival and the 1950 adaptation of "Cyrano de Bergerac," which propelled José Ferrer to become the first Latinx actor to win an Academy Award for Best Actor.
- 12/14/2022
- by Ben F. Silverio
- Slash Film
The MCU has reached the National Film Registry. The Library of Congress has announced the 25 American films selected for preservation in the archive this year. Among them is Jon Favreau’s “Iron Man,” the first entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
The list of films was announced Wednesday by Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden. Aside from “Iron Man,” other notable films on the list include the 1950 film version of “Cyrano de Bergerac,” Frederick Wiseman’s “Titicut Follies,” the classic blaxploitation film “Super Fly,” Brian De Palma’s Stephen King adaptation “Carrie,” John Water’s “Hairspray,” Disney animated musical “The Little Mermaid,” Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal’s rom-com “When Harry Met Sally,” and teen comedy film “House Party.”
The oldest film on the list is 1898’s “Mardi Gras Carnival,” a footage reel of the New Orleans celebration that was recently discovered in the Netherlands after being lost for decades. The...
The list of films was announced Wednesday by Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden. Aside from “Iron Man,” other notable films on the list include the 1950 film version of “Cyrano de Bergerac,” Frederick Wiseman’s “Titicut Follies,” the classic blaxploitation film “Super Fly,” Brian De Palma’s Stephen King adaptation “Carrie,” John Water’s “Hairspray,” Disney animated musical “The Little Mermaid,” Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal’s rom-com “When Harry Met Sally,” and teen comedy film “House Party.”
The oldest film on the list is 1898’s “Mardi Gras Carnival,” a footage reel of the New Orleans celebration that was recently discovered in the Netherlands after being lost for decades. The...
- 12/14/2022
- by Wilson Chapman
- Indiewire
"Citizen Kane" director Orson Welles was a highly prolific and influential filmmaker, to say the least. His obsession with exploring power through unconventional means has resulted in some of the most acclaimed films in the American movie canon. While some of his movies were not fully appreciated in their time, it's hard to overstate the influence Welles has had on filmmaking and filmmakers to this day.
However, for as many movies as he was able to make, there were just as many that he didn't couldn't to life. For a variety of reasons, many of Welles' projects wound up never seeing the light of day. These films have long been the subject of speculation and confusion, as there often isn't a lot of available details about them. However, that just makes these unfinished films that much more interesting to learn about. And you're looking for a guide to some of...
However, for as many movies as he was able to make, there were just as many that he didn't couldn't to life. For a variety of reasons, many of Welles' projects wound up never seeing the light of day. These films have long been the subject of speculation and confusion, as there often isn't a lot of available details about them. However, that just makes these unfinished films that much more interesting to learn about. And you're looking for a guide to some of...
- 8/15/2022
- by Erin Brady
- Slash Film
Variety will honor French entertainment giant Pathé with its Intl. Achievement in Film Award on May 20 at the Cannes Film Festival.
Pathé – which is the only French film group still fully involved in exhibition, production, distribution and sales – is family-owned and run by Jérôme Seydoux. Earlier this year, “Coda,” the remake of the company’s “La Famille Bélier,” took three Oscars, including for best picture.
In the past two years, the company has greenlit big budget features “Asterix and Obelix: The Middle Kingdom” and the two-part adaptation of Alexandre Dumas’ masterpiece, “The Three Musketeers – D’Artagnan” and “The Three Musketeers – Milady.”
Pathé is venturing into television production and signed pacts with Netflix and Apple TV+.
During the pandemic, Pathé forged ahead with films for theatrical release, and Seydoux, who has been involved in greenlighting big-budget epics, wants to maintain the company’s high standards whether in film or TV.
Pathé...
Pathé – which is the only French film group still fully involved in exhibition, production, distribution and sales – is family-owned and run by Jérôme Seydoux. Earlier this year, “Coda,” the remake of the company’s “La Famille Bélier,” took three Oscars, including for best picture.
In the past two years, the company has greenlit big budget features “Asterix and Obelix: The Middle Kingdom” and the two-part adaptation of Alexandre Dumas’ masterpiece, “The Three Musketeers – D’Artagnan” and “The Three Musketeers – Milady.”
Pathé is venturing into television production and signed pacts with Netflix and Apple TV+.
During the pandemic, Pathé forged ahead with films for theatrical release, and Seydoux, who has been involved in greenlighting big-budget epics, wants to maintain the company’s high standards whether in film or TV.
Pathé...
- 5/6/2022
- by Shalini Dore and Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
The films in contention for the 2022 Best Costume Design Oscar are “Cruella,” “Cyrano,” “Dune,” “Nightmare Alley,” and “West Side Story.” Our current odds show “Cruella” (16/5) to be the frontrunner, followed in order by “Dune” (39/10), “West Side Story” (4/1), “Nightmare Alley” (9/2), and “Cyrano” (9/2).
Jenny Beavan’s nomination for “Cruella” is her 11th and could result in her third win, as she previously bagged trophies for “A Room with a View” (1987) and “Mad Max: Fury Road” (2016). She would be the 11th costumer to achieve as many victories and already ranks as the eighth most-nominated one. Her other eight bids came for “The Bostonians” (1985), “Maurice” (1988), “Howards End” (1993), “The Remains of the Day” (1994), “Sense and Sensibility” (1996), “Anna and the King” (2000), “Gosford Park” (2002), and “The King’s Speech” (2011). The first five films for which she was nominated were all directed by James Ivory.
Jacqueline Durran (“Cyrano”) has also won twice for her work in “Anna Karenina” (2013) and...
Jenny Beavan’s nomination for “Cruella” is her 11th and could result in her third win, as she previously bagged trophies for “A Room with a View” (1987) and “Mad Max: Fury Road” (2016). She would be the 11th costumer to achieve as many victories and already ranks as the eighth most-nominated one. Her other eight bids came for “The Bostonians” (1985), “Maurice” (1988), “Howards End” (1993), “The Remains of the Day” (1994), “Sense and Sensibility” (1996), “Anna and the King” (2000), “Gosford Park” (2002), and “The King’s Speech” (2011). The first five films for which she was nominated were all directed by James Ivory.
Jacqueline Durran (“Cyrano”) has also won twice for her work in “Anna Karenina” (2013) and...
- 3/24/2022
- by Matthew Stewart
- Gold Derby
On Wednesday evening in New York City, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer offered its return to the original movie musical with “Cyrano,” director Joe Wright’s musical adaptation of “Cyrano de Bergerac,” starring Peter Dinklage, Haley Bennett and Kelvin Harrison Jr.
At the New York City premiere, held at the Sva Theater, cast and studio executives reflected on the film’s unusual journey from an off-Broadway musical to a $30 million MGM feature film.
“The whole reason I set out to do this project was because I really, really wanted to be on Broadway,” Bennett, who plays the leading role of Roxanne, told Variety at the premiere. “We started out in this tiny room six or seven years ago, and in my imagination, we might have ended up on a Broadway stage together. But, almost unbelievably, here we are at a movie premiere.”
In truth, “Cyrano,” composed by rock group the National, had checked all...
At the New York City premiere, held at the Sva Theater, cast and studio executives reflected on the film’s unusual journey from an off-Broadway musical to a $30 million MGM feature film.
“The whole reason I set out to do this project was because I really, really wanted to be on Broadway,” Bennett, who plays the leading role of Roxanne, told Variety at the premiere. “We started out in this tiny room six or seven years ago, and in my imagination, we might have ended up on a Broadway stage together. But, almost unbelievably, here we are at a movie premiere.”
In truth, “Cyrano,” composed by rock group the National, had checked all...
- 2/25/2022
- by Michael Appler
- Variety Film + TV
Last weekend saw some solid over-performances from Uncharted and Dog in what was 2022’s best grossing weekend yet, coming in 32% ahead of the previous 2022 weekend best (Jan 14-17 when Scream opened and knocked Spider-Man: No Way Home from the top spot). Those two films will likely come in the top two slots again, ahead of what look like soft openings for this weekend’s newcomers Studio 666 and Cyrano. The lack of significant new content may lead to a box-office drop that makes this weekend the lowest grossing of February and one of the lowest of the year (though much depends on how well Uncharted holds), but not to fret – The Batman opens next weekend and could be one of the top grossers of the past few years.
Uncharted, at $55.5 million through Tuesday and pulling in weekday numbers that top most recent films’ weekend numbers, will finish its second weekend as...
Uncharted, at $55.5 million through Tuesday and pulling in weekday numbers that top most recent films’ weekend numbers, will finish its second weekend as...
- 2/25/2022
- by Sam Mendelsohn <mail@boxofficemojo.com>
- Box Office Mojo
You can find strange similarities between almost any two years for Oscar prognosticating. Just days away from the 28th Screen Actors Guild Awards and three weeks out from BAFTA and Critics Choice ceremonies, there are odd correlations between this year’s crop of nominees and the ceremony that rewarded the 1952 cinematic year.
Denis Villeneuve’s omission from best director for the sci-fi drama “Dune” was the most shocking when Oscar nominations were announced. Nevertheless, the film landed 10 nominations, including best picture, adapted screenplay and every technical category, the sixth film in history to achieve this feat.
In the current Oscar projections, the Warner Bros. adaptation of the famous series is projected to win anywhere between three and eight statuettes. However, if it manages to pick up more than five, it will surpass “The Bad and the Beautiful” (1952) as the most awarded film that was not nominated for best director.
Read...
Denis Villeneuve’s omission from best director for the sci-fi drama “Dune” was the most shocking when Oscar nominations were announced. Nevertheless, the film landed 10 nominations, including best picture, adapted screenplay and every technical category, the sixth film in history to achieve this feat.
In the current Oscar projections, the Warner Bros. adaptation of the famous series is projected to win anywhere between three and eight statuettes. However, if it manages to pick up more than five, it will surpass “The Bad and the Beautiful” (1952) as the most awarded film that was not nominated for best director.
Read...
- 2/22/2022
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
The Make-Up & Hairstylists Guild has its 2022 Lifetime Achievement Award winners: Oscar– and multiple Emmy-winning makeup artist Michèle Burke and Emmy-winning hairstylist Joy Zapata.
Both will be honored at the ninth annual The Make-Up & Hairstylists Guild Awards on February 19 at the Beverly Hilton. Watch video interviews with both honorees below.
2021-22 Awards Season Calendar – Dates For The Emmys, Grammys, Oscars & More
A double Oscar winner for makeup for Quest for Fire — becoming the first woman to will in the category — and Bram Stoker’s Dracula, Burke has more than 100 films and television makeup credits. She also earned Oscar noms for Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me, The Cell, Cyrano de Bergerac (1990), and The Clan of the Cave Bear. She won her Emmy for 1989’s Alien Nation and scored a nom for Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman in 1993.
Zapata has won four Emmys for hairstyling — including two in 2017 for Westworld and Harispray Live!
Both will be honored at the ninth annual The Make-Up & Hairstylists Guild Awards on February 19 at the Beverly Hilton. Watch video interviews with both honorees below.
2021-22 Awards Season Calendar – Dates For The Emmys, Grammys, Oscars & More
A double Oscar winner for makeup for Quest for Fire — becoming the first woman to will in the category — and Bram Stoker’s Dracula, Burke has more than 100 films and television makeup credits. She also earned Oscar noms for Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me, The Cell, Cyrano de Bergerac (1990), and The Clan of the Cave Bear. She won her Emmy for 1989’s Alien Nation and scored a nom for Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman in 1993.
Zapata has won four Emmys for hairstyling — including two in 2017 for Westworld and Harispray Live!
- 12/20/2021
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
The origins of Joe Wright’s emotional musical adaptation of “Cyrano de Bergerac,” simply titled “Cyrano,” started on a Connecticut stage in the summer of 2018. That’s when stars Peter Dinklage and Haley Bennett first teamed up with playwright Erica Schmidt to perform the musical with songs and music by Aaron and Bryce Dessner from The National.
“She approached us, approached our band, The National, about getting involved and writing songs. We had never written songs for a musical or even had plans to do that. It was kind of a surprise when she called us and it took a little while to convince us to try it out,” Bryce Dessner tells Gold Derby in our “Meet the Experts” composers panel.
An Off-Broadway run followed before Wright and the original creative team launched into a film production of “Cyrano” late last summer. But the songs in the film, Aaron Dessner recalls,...
“She approached us, approached our band, The National, about getting involved and writing songs. We had never written songs for a musical or even had plans to do that. It was kind of a surprise when she called us and it took a little while to convince us to try it out,” Bryce Dessner tells Gold Derby in our “Meet the Experts” composers panel.
An Off-Broadway run followed before Wright and the original creative team launched into a film production of “Cyrano” late last summer. But the songs in the film, Aaron Dessner recalls,...
- 11/21/2021
- by Christopher Rosen
- Gold Derby
Chicago – One of the classic show business turns is the Sister Act, and one of Chicago’s up-and-coming are the Leslie Sister Duo. Kirsten and Regina Leslie have been performing both separately and together for all their lives, and will take their latest iteration to Le Piano in Chicago on November 22nd, 2021. For reservation info, click Sister Act.
Regina Leslie began studying violin at age five. By the time she was age eight, she had begun her performing career, where she played and sang at various events. This early performing experience was prime preparation for her eclectic career, which balances itself between appearing as violinist, actor and singer. She has appeared in many roles locally, including in “Cyrano de Bergerac” (Chicago Shakespeare Theatre), “A Christmas Carol” (Goodman Theatre) and “Wonderland” (Chicago Children’s Theatre), as well as National and Regional Touring credits.
The Leslie Sister Duo at Le Piano
Photo...
Regina Leslie began studying violin at age five. By the time she was age eight, she had begun her performing career, where she played and sang at various events. This early performing experience was prime preparation for her eclectic career, which balances itself between appearing as violinist, actor and singer. She has appeared in many roles locally, including in “Cyrano de Bergerac” (Chicago Shakespeare Theatre), “A Christmas Carol” (Goodman Theatre) and “Wonderland” (Chicago Children’s Theatre), as well as National and Regional Touring credits.
The Leslie Sister Duo at Le Piano
Photo...
- 11/16/2021
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
It’s still very early, but it’s impossible not to take notice of what Chloe Zhao’s film Nomadland is doing right now. The fall film festival season has launched other movies, like Regina King’s One Night in Miami…, but none like Nomadland. Today, the flick added a pretty big feather in its cap, taking the prestigious Audience Award from the Toronto International Film Festival (with the aforementioned One Night in Miami… as runner up). Taking this prize from TIFF is a huge deal, even in an unusual awards season like this one. What does it mean for its Oscar aspirations? Read on to find out… So, what exactly does this mean for Nomadland? Looking specifically at the Audience Award and thinking in terms of its history, this is a somewhat reliable indicator of prestige, especially with the Academy. Nomadland now joins a group that has seen a...
- 9/20/2020
- by Joey Magidson
- Hollywoodnews.com
Picture a modernized, queer-teen version of Cyrano de Bergerac, in which the title character is a closeted Chinese-American girl who’s hired by a tongue-tied jock to write love letters to win the heart and mind the high-school queen they both secretly love. That’s the starting point for Alice Wu’s sweetly subversive The Half of It, a romcom (streaming on Netflix starting May 1st) that undercuts Hollywood formula at every turn.
Instead of Paris, where Cyrano is set, this revisionist take on the classic transpires in bluntly un-romantic Squahamish,...
Instead of Paris, where Cyrano is set, this revisionist take on the classic transpires in bluntly un-romantic Squahamish,...
- 4/29/2020
- by Peter Travers
- Rollingstone.com
James McAvoy, Andrew Scott, Wendell Pierce and Toby Jones are going head-to-head for best actor in this year’s Olivier Awards, while Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Hayley Atwell, Juliet Stevenson and Sharon D Clarke have been nominated for best actress.
New musical & Juliet has nabbed nine nominations, Trevor Nunn’s Fiddler on the Roof has secured eight and Dear Evan Hansen has scored seven.
The UK awards, which celebrates the best theatre in London, will take place at the Royal Albert Hall on April 5.
Here’s the full list of play and musical nominations:
Best New Play
A Very Expensive Poison at The Old Vic
The Doctor at Almeida Theatre
Leopoldstadt at Wyndham’s Theatre
The Ocean at the End of the Lane at National Theatre – Dorfman
Best New Musical
& Juliet at Shaftesbury Theatre
Amelie The Musical at The Other Palace
Dear Evan Hansen at Noel Coward Theatre
Waitress at Adelphi Theatre...
New musical & Juliet has nabbed nine nominations, Trevor Nunn’s Fiddler on the Roof has secured eight and Dear Evan Hansen has scored seven.
The UK awards, which celebrates the best theatre in London, will take place at the Royal Albert Hall on April 5.
Here’s the full list of play and musical nominations:
Best New Play
A Very Expensive Poison at The Old Vic
The Doctor at Almeida Theatre
Leopoldstadt at Wyndham’s Theatre
The Ocean at the End of the Lane at National Theatre – Dorfman
Best New Musical
& Juliet at Shaftesbury Theatre
Amelie The Musical at The Other Palace
Dear Evan Hansen at Noel Coward Theatre
Waitress at Adelphi Theatre...
- 3/3/2020
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
A reboot of classic British police procedural Bergerac is being developed by Paramount Network International – marking the latter’s first international drama project to emerge since its global expansion.
The series previously starred John Nettles, later known for his role in Midsomer Murders, as a detective on the small island of Jersey. It ran for nine seasons and 87 episodes on the BBC between 1981 and 1991 and was created by Robert Banks Stewart.
Endemol Shine-backed production company Artists Studios is developing the reboot with Westward Studios. It is the latest attempt to bring back the classic character – the BBC had previously attempted to remake the series with Artists Studios back in 2013. Artists Studios’ Gub Neal, who has produced series such as Prime Suspect and The Fall, is lead producer.
The move comes as Viacom ramps up the international rollout of Paramount Network International, under the leadership of Evp Jill Offman.
Offman said,...
The series previously starred John Nettles, later known for his role in Midsomer Murders, as a detective on the small island of Jersey. It ran for nine seasons and 87 episodes on the BBC between 1981 and 1991 and was created by Robert Banks Stewart.
Endemol Shine-backed production company Artists Studios is developing the reboot with Westward Studios. It is the latest attempt to bring back the classic character – the BBC had previously attempted to remake the series with Artists Studios back in 2013. Artists Studios’ Gub Neal, who has produced series such as Prime Suspect and The Fall, is lead producer.
The move comes as Viacom ramps up the international rollout of Paramount Network International, under the leadership of Evp Jill Offman.
Offman said,...
- 2/7/2019
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
British police drama “Bergerac” is being primed for a reboot for Paramount Network International. U.K. production companies Artists Studios, which is backed by Endemol Shine U.K., and Westward Studios, which is based on Jersey where the show is set, are developing the project as a potential future commission for Paramount’s network of channels outside the U.S.
Emmy-winning producer Gub Neal is leading the development for Artists Studios, serving as executive producer. Neal said the show would be updated for the present day, dealing with “contemporary stories-of-the-week that run alongside a strong serial spine.”
Jill Offman, executive vice president of Paramount Network, said the company hoped to be able to commission “Bergerac” as a full series.
Set on the island of Jersey, the original series of “Bergerac” starred John Nettles and ran for nine seasons between 1981-91. It followed the investigations of maverick detective Jim Bergerac.
“I...
Emmy-winning producer Gub Neal is leading the development for Artists Studios, serving as executive producer. Neal said the show would be updated for the present day, dealing with “contemporary stories-of-the-week that run alongside a strong serial spine.”
Jill Offman, executive vice president of Paramount Network, said the company hoped to be able to commission “Bergerac” as a full series.
Set on the island of Jersey, the original series of “Bergerac” starred John Nettles and ran for nine seasons between 1981-91. It followed the investigations of maverick detective Jim Bergerac.
“I...
- 2/7/2019
- by Robert Mitchell
- Variety Film + TV
Stars: Julian Barratt, Simon Farnaby, Essie Davis, Russell Tovey, Andrea Riseborough, Jessica Barden, Harriet Walter, Steve Coogan | Written by Julian Barratt, Simon Farnaby | Directed by Sean Foley
Washed-up Richard Thorncroft (Julian Barratt) peaked with hit 1980s detective show ‘Mindhorn’, playing the titular Isle of Man sleuth with a robotic eye that allowed him to literally “see the truth”. Decades later, when a deranged Manx criminal demands Mindhorn as his nemesis, Thorncroft returns to the scene of his greatest triumphs for one last chance to reignite his glory days, professional credibility and even romance with former co-star/paramour Patricia Deville (Essie Davis).
The idea of fans blurring the line between fiction and reality has been used numerous times in cinema, the latest example of which – Mindhorn – is a very British take on the idea: at once both spoofing and homaging the likes of 70s and 80s TV shows such as Bergerac,...
Washed-up Richard Thorncroft (Julian Barratt) peaked with hit 1980s detective show ‘Mindhorn’, playing the titular Isle of Man sleuth with a robotic eye that allowed him to literally “see the truth”. Decades later, when a deranged Manx criminal demands Mindhorn as his nemesis, Thorncroft returns to the scene of his greatest triumphs for one last chance to reignite his glory days, professional credibility and even romance with former co-star/paramour Patricia Deville (Essie Davis).
The idea of fans blurring the line between fiction and reality has been used numerous times in cinema, the latest example of which – Mindhorn – is a very British take on the idea: at once both spoofing and homaging the likes of 70s and 80s TV shows such as Bergerac,...
- 9/11/2017
- by Phil Wheat
- Nerdly
Philip Bates is a writer at Kasterborous Doctor Who News and Reviews - All the latest Doctor Who news and reviews with our weekly podKast, features and interviews, and a long-running forum.
Robert Banks Stewart, the greatly-respected writer and creator of the Zygons, has died at the age of 84. Stewart is perhaps best known as the creator of Bergerac and Shoestrong, but Doctor Who fans will admire him most for creating the Zygons and Krynoids in Terror of the Zygons and The Seeds of Doom, both of which are now remembered as...
The post Robert Banks Stewart (1931- 2016) appeared first on Kasterborous Doctor Who News and Reviews.
Robert Banks Stewart, the greatly-respected writer and creator of the Zygons, has died at the age of 84. Stewart is perhaps best known as the creator of Bergerac and Shoestrong, but Doctor Who fans will admire him most for creating the Zygons and Krynoids in Terror of the Zygons and The Seeds of Doom, both of which are now remembered as...
The post Robert Banks Stewart (1931- 2016) appeared first on Kasterborous Doctor Who News and Reviews.
- 1/15/2016
- by Philip Bates
- Kasterborous.com
Her screen credits include Doctor Who, EastEnders, Tenko and Bergerac - but Louise Jameson has also forged a long and impressive career on the stage, and says performing for a live audience will always be her first love.
Jameson's latest stage stint will see her play Dotty in a new production of Noises Off - the 1982 'farce-within-a-farce' by playwright Michael Frayn - at The Mercury Theatre, Colchester.
While she was in the thick of rehearsals, Digital Spy got Louise on the phone to sound off about Noises Off - and, of course, her role on the world's greatest sci-fi series.
Noises Off is often hailed as one of the greatest theatrical comedies ever written. How are you feeling about bringing your version of Dotty to the stage?
It feels extraordinary but it's also been one of the most difficult rehearsal periods I've ever had. The whole thing has to look...
Jameson's latest stage stint will see her play Dotty in a new production of Noises Off - the 1982 'farce-within-a-farce' by playwright Michael Frayn - at The Mercury Theatre, Colchester.
While she was in the thick of rehearsals, Digital Spy got Louise on the phone to sound off about Noises Off - and, of course, her role on the world's greatest sci-fi series.
Noises Off is often hailed as one of the greatest theatrical comedies ever written. How are you feeling about bringing your version of Dotty to the stage?
It feels extraordinary but it's also been one of the most difficult rehearsal periods I've ever had. The whole thing has to look...
- 4/28/2015
- Digital Spy
Jason-Isaacs-in-Case-Histories
Within the crowded field of British detective shows, Case Histories truly stands out as one of the very best contemporary dramas in recent years. It’s not as gloomy as Vera, not as gory as Luther, and it lacks the frivolity of Midsomer Murders. What it does offer is a realistic central character played brilliantly by Harry Potter bad-guy Jason Isaacs. Jackson Brodie (Isaacs) is broody but he’s positively jovial when compared with Wallander. He’s something of a lady’s man and could be described as Scotland’s answer to Jim Bergerac only with a penchant for cigarettes rather than booze. Brodie has his demons and he’s not immune to the odd cock-up but he’s a good guy at heart and he usually unravels the perplexing mysteries that land in his lap.
Case Histories ran for two seasons each comprised of three feature length mysteries.
Within the crowded field of British detective shows, Case Histories truly stands out as one of the very best contemporary dramas in recent years. It’s not as gloomy as Vera, not as gory as Luther, and it lacks the frivolity of Midsomer Murders. What it does offer is a realistic central character played brilliantly by Harry Potter bad-guy Jason Isaacs. Jackson Brodie (Isaacs) is broody but he’s positively jovial when compared with Wallander. He’s something of a lady’s man and could be described as Scotland’s answer to Jim Bergerac only with a penchant for cigarettes rather than booze. Brodie has his demons and he’s not immune to the odd cock-up but he’s a good guy at heart and he usually unravels the perplexing mysteries that land in his lap.
Case Histories ran for two seasons each comprised of three feature length mysteries.
- 3/18/2015
- by Edited by K Kinsella
This BBC audience reaction report was one of the first nails in Doctor Who's coffin in the late eighties…
“Not for publication” is printed at the top of the 1988 audience reaction report for Doctor Who’s 24th season. It’s there for the purposes of BBC confidentiality, but could equally be a pain-saving instruction to save Sylvester McCoy fans the distress of reading the show’s three-page death sentence.
Because this report is painful stuff. Compiled in February 1988 after the broadcast of McCoy’s first four serials as the Doctor (from Time And The Rani to Dragonfire), it doesn’t mince its words in describing audience apathy and antipathy towards late-eighties Doctor Who. Looking back with the knowledge that the wilderness years were around the corner, each unimpressed audience response and scathing comment feels like another nail being hammered into classic Who’s coffin.
To begin with, the numbers weren’t good.
“Not for publication” is printed at the top of the 1988 audience reaction report for Doctor Who’s 24th season. It’s there for the purposes of BBC confidentiality, but could equally be a pain-saving instruction to save Sylvester McCoy fans the distress of reading the show’s three-page death sentence.
Because this report is painful stuff. Compiled in February 1988 after the broadcast of McCoy’s first four serials as the Doctor (from Time And The Rani to Dragonfire), it doesn’t mince its words in describing audience apathy and antipathy towards late-eighties Doctor Who. Looking back with the knowledge that the wilderness years were around the corner, each unimpressed audience response and scathing comment feels like another nail being hammered into classic Who’s coffin.
To begin with, the numbers weren’t good.
- 3/4/2015
- by louisamellor
- Den of Geek
We pay tribute to Brian Clemens, a screenwriter and producer whose work lit up 1970s cult TV and beyond...
Brian Clemens, who died earlier this week aged 83, was a highly respected screenwriter and producer both for TV and Film. He will chiefly be remembered for his work on The Avengers, The New Avengers and The Professionals but his credits were numerous and encapsulated a real golden age of cult, escapist television from the 1950s onwards.
Clemens was born in Croydon in July 1931. He spent his National Service as a Weapons Training Instructor. After spending time as a copywriter, he established himself as a scriptwriter - sometimes using the pseudonym "Tony O'Grady" - O'Grady being his mother's maiden name. He received his first commission from the BBC at the age of 24 - a thriller called Valid For Single Journey Only. He went on to write for many of the big TV...
Brian Clemens, who died earlier this week aged 83, was a highly respected screenwriter and producer both for TV and Film. He will chiefly be remembered for his work on The Avengers, The New Avengers and The Professionals but his credits were numerous and encapsulated a real golden age of cult, escapist television from the 1950s onwards.
Clemens was born in Croydon in July 1931. He spent his National Service as a Weapons Training Instructor. After spending time as a copywriter, he established himself as a scriptwriter - sometimes using the pseudonym "Tony O'Grady" - O'Grady being his mother's maiden name. He received his first commission from the BBC at the age of 24 - a thriller called Valid For Single Journey Only. He went on to write for many of the big TV...
- 1/14/2015
- by louisamellor
- Den of Geek
TV writer and producer Brian Clemens has died, aged 83.
Clemens was perhaps best known for being responsible for The Avengers, New Avengers and The Professionals.
Honoured by the Queen in 2010 for services to broadcasting and drama, he passed away on Saturday (January 10), his family confirmed.
He also wrote for various TV series, including The Baron, The Persuaders, The Protectors, Danger Man, The Invisible Man and Bergerac.
His production companies created The New Avengers and The Professionals, while he also wrote for several Us shows including Remington Steele, Perry Mason and Highlander.
Clemens also wrote and produced for Hammer Films, while also co-writing the story for Highlander II: The Quickening.
He was also involved in The Elstree Project, whose spokesman said: "Brian gave his support and time to The Elstree Project and is featured in our documentary film, through clips from the oral history interview he gave to us, as well...
Clemens was perhaps best known for being responsible for The Avengers, New Avengers and The Professionals.
Honoured by the Queen in 2010 for services to broadcasting and drama, he passed away on Saturday (January 10), his family confirmed.
He also wrote for various TV series, including The Baron, The Persuaders, The Protectors, Danger Man, The Invisible Man and Bergerac.
His production companies created The New Avengers and The Professionals, while he also wrote for several Us shows including Remington Steele, Perry Mason and Highlander.
Clemens also wrote and produced for Hammer Films, while also co-writing the story for Highlander II: The Quickening.
He was also involved in The Elstree Project, whose spokesman said: "Brian gave his support and time to The Elstree Project and is featured in our documentary film, through clips from the oral history interview he gave to us, as well...
- 1/12/2015
- Digital Spy
Midsomer Murders Acorn Media/Rlj Entertainment
Fans all over the world instantly recognize actor John Nettles as the star of the hit ITV drama Midsomer Murders which is available in the U.S. through Acorn Media. However, as a kid growing up in England I also recall John as the face of another TV detective series — Bergerac. I was fortunate enough to catch up with him at the American Public Television Fall Marketplace. I begin by asking him about his time as Jim Bergerac and of course what it was like to drive that iconic car. As soon as I mention the burgundy 1947 Triumph Roadster John begins to laugh.
“That was probably the worst sports car ever built,” he chuckles.
“We filmed Bergerac on Jersey and the whole island is covered in narrow roads surrounded by hedges. It’s difficult enough to drive a normal car out there but that...
Fans all over the world instantly recognize actor John Nettles as the star of the hit ITV drama Midsomer Murders which is available in the U.S. through Acorn Media. However, as a kid growing up in England I also recall John as the face of another TV detective series — Bergerac. I was fortunate enough to catch up with him at the American Public Television Fall Marketplace. I begin by asking him about his time as Jim Bergerac and of course what it was like to drive that iconic car. As soon as I mention the burgundy 1947 Triumph Roadster John begins to laugh.
“That was probably the worst sports car ever built,” he chuckles.
“We filmed Bergerac on Jersey and the whole island is covered in narrow roads surrounded by hedges. It’s difficult enough to drive a normal car out there but that...
- 11/17/2014
- by Edited by K Kinsella
Actress Sally Farmiloe has died of cancer at the age of 60.
Born in South Africa, she was best known for her role of barmaid Dawn in BBC series Howards' Way.
She also hit the headlines in 1999 when details of an affair with Jeffrey Archer became public.
Novelist Archer said in a statement: "After Sally's brave struggle against this terrible disease, I was saddened to hear the news of her death."
In later years, Farmiloe raised money for cancer charities, while her book My Left Boob detailed her experiences with the disease.
Farmiloe also had roles in Steptoe and Son and Bergerac on TV, and Absent Friends and When the Lilac Blooms on stage.
Born in South Africa, she was best known for her role of barmaid Dawn in BBC series Howards' Way.
She also hit the headlines in 1999 when details of an affair with Jeffrey Archer became public.
Novelist Archer said in a statement: "After Sally's brave struggle against this terrible disease, I was saddened to hear the news of her death."
In later years, Farmiloe raised money for cancer charities, while her book My Left Boob detailed her experiences with the disease.
Farmiloe also had roles in Steptoe and Son and Bergerac on TV, and Absent Friends and When the Lilac Blooms on stage.
- 7/30/2014
- Digital Spy
Feature Andrew Blair 21 Nov 2013 - 07:00
In this celebration week, Andrew tips his cap to just a few of the people whose hard work and talent made New Who what it is today...
After writing about the Classic Series production crew, we take a look at some of the people whose hard work, talent, and ability to fib have worked wonders behind the scenes in the twenty-first century.
5. Jane Tranter
In the late Eighties, Jane Tranter could be found marking out rehearsal rooms with tape as part of her job as an Assistant Floor Manager. She worked on shows such as Eastenders, Bergerac, and Doctor Who.
In 2000, she became Head of Drama Commissioning at the BBC. Like the Seventh Doctor, she had a long-term planny-type thing. Unlike the Seventh Doctor, Tranter did not actively seek out conflict by immediately announcing that Doctor Who would come back, waiting until she had...
In this celebration week, Andrew tips his cap to just a few of the people whose hard work and talent made New Who what it is today...
After writing about the Classic Series production crew, we take a look at some of the people whose hard work, talent, and ability to fib have worked wonders behind the scenes in the twenty-first century.
5. Jane Tranter
In the late Eighties, Jane Tranter could be found marking out rehearsal rooms with tape as part of her job as an Assistant Floor Manager. She worked on shows such as Eastenders, Bergerac, and Doctor Who.
In 2000, she became Head of Drama Commissioning at the BBC. Like the Seventh Doctor, she had a long-term planny-type thing. Unlike the Seventh Doctor, Tranter did not actively seek out conflict by immediately announcing that Doctor Who would come back, waiting until she had...
- 11/20/2013
- by louisamellor
- Den of Geek
Midsomer Murders ITV
Kieran Kinsella
It is midsummer which means blood is flowing in the streets of England’s most dangerous county – Midsomer. Over the next few weeks, Acorn Media are releasing not one, not two but Six boxsets of the beloved hit series Midsomer Murders on DVD. Not only that, but they are also releasing the Alec Guinness classic Smiley’s People on Blu-ray. So without further ado, let’s begin.
Midsomer Murders Set 22
The four stories in this set were originally broadcast in the UK in late 2011 and have never been shown in the U.S. All four feature Neil Dudgeon as Barnaby and Jason Hughes as his ever-reliable sidekick. The first of the stories is Sleeper Under the Hill. It centers around a group of Druids and a Stonehenge-like monument that they use during rituals. A local farmer plans to plough up the surrounding meadow, an endeavor...
Kieran Kinsella
It is midsummer which means blood is flowing in the streets of England’s most dangerous county – Midsomer. Over the next few weeks, Acorn Media are releasing not one, not two but Six boxsets of the beloved hit series Midsomer Murders on DVD. Not only that, but they are also releasing the Alec Guinness classic Smiley’s People on Blu-ray. So without further ado, let’s begin.
Midsomer Murders Set 22
The four stories in this set were originally broadcast in the UK in late 2011 and have never been shown in the U.S. All four feature Neil Dudgeon as Barnaby and Jason Hughes as his ever-reliable sidekick. The first of the stories is Sleeper Under the Hill. It centers around a group of Druids and a Stonehenge-like monument that they use during rituals. A local farmer plans to plough up the surrounding meadow, an endeavor...
- 7/28/2013
- by Edited by K Kinsella
This period of economic hardship hasn't brought about the predicted burst of creativity – instead it's More of the Same
It's said there are only seven master plots in fiction (or five, or 20, depending on who's counting). But at the current rate of rehash, scientists predict there will be only seven master franchises come 2025. These will include: Spiderman (played by a different 26-year-old every three years); that thing with Vin Diesel and the cars (Fast and Forty-fourious will see the gang of ageing speedsters pull off a heist on mobility scooters); and any amount of spun-off Star Wars characters (to be tired of Boba Fett's backstory is to be tired of life). Oh, and Poldark.
Poldark's back, in case you missed the news, or perhaps assumed the reports had wormed through some tear in the commissioning continuum from 1996, which is the last time the 18th-century Cornish romantic saga was revived.
It's said there are only seven master plots in fiction (or five, or 20, depending on who's counting). But at the current rate of rehash, scientists predict there will be only seven master franchises come 2025. These will include: Spiderman (played by a different 26-year-old every three years); that thing with Vin Diesel and the cars (Fast and Forty-fourious will see the gang of ageing speedsters pull off a heist on mobility scooters); and any amount of spun-off Star Wars characters (to be tired of Boba Fett's backstory is to be tired of life). Oh, and Poldark.
Poldark's back, in case you missed the news, or perhaps assumed the reports had wormed through some tear in the commissioning continuum from 1996, which is the last time the 18th-century Cornish romantic saga was revived.
- 5/10/2013
- by Marina Hyde
- The Guardian - Film News
The BBC are planning to bring back 'Bergerac'. Programme bosses are planning a ''reboot'' of the popular 80s crime drama - which ran for a decade until 1991 - which will target a younger audience than its original fan base. No script has been produced yet, but the show's creator, Robert Banks Stewart, has given the venture his blessing. He told industry publication Broadcast: ''The team involved has full artistic freedom to recreate 'Bergerac' the way they see it in the 21st century. ''Obviously the unique atmosphere of Jersey and the island's involvement will count for a lot. ''There will be, I'm sure, surprises in...
- 4/19/2013
- Virgin Media - Celebrity
The BBC are planning to bring back 'Bergerac'. Programme bosses are planning a ''reboot'' of the popular 80s crime drama - which ran for a decade until 1991 - which will target a younger audience than its original fan base. No script has been produced yet, but the show's creator, Robert Banks Stewart, has given the venture his blessing. He told industry publication Broadcast: ''The team involved has full artistic freedom to recreate 'Bergerac' the way they see it in the 21st century. ''Obviously the unique atmosphere of Jersey and the island's involvement will count for a lot. ''There will be, I'm sure, surprises in...
- 4/19/2013
- Virgin Media - TV
The BBC is reportedly planning to remake Bergerac.
The classic drama - which aired on BBC One between 1981 and 1991 - followed Jersey-based detective Jim Bergerac (John Nettles).
The new series is in the early stages, with a script yet to be written, according to Broadcast.
However, the BBC is said to be keen to replicate the original's international appeal and is currently in discussions with global broadcasters and distributors.
Bergerac was created by Scottish writer Robert Banks Stewart, who has given his blessing to the remake.
"The team involved has full artistic freedom to recreate Bergerac the way they see it in the 21st century - though obviously the unique atmosphere of Jersey, and the island's involvement, will count for a lot," he said.
Banks Stewart recently told Digital Spy that he believes the UK television industry is neglecting older writers and criticised the BBC for relying on tried-and-tested formats.
The classic drama - which aired on BBC One between 1981 and 1991 - followed Jersey-based detective Jim Bergerac (John Nettles).
The new series is in the early stages, with a script yet to be written, according to Broadcast.
However, the BBC is said to be keen to replicate the original's international appeal and is currently in discussions with global broadcasters and distributors.
Bergerac was created by Scottish writer Robert Banks Stewart, who has given his blessing to the remake.
"The team involved has full artistic freedom to recreate Bergerac the way they see it in the 21st century - though obviously the unique atmosphere of Jersey, and the island's involvement, will count for a lot," he said.
Banks Stewart recently told Digital Spy that he believes the UK television industry is neglecting older writers and criticised the BBC for relying on tried-and-tested formats.
- 4/18/2013
- Digital Spy
Veteran television writer Robert Banks Stewart has claimed that older writers are neglected by today's television industry,
Banks Stewart - who created the popular detective dramas Bergerac and Shoestring - spoke to Digital Spy about his decision to adapt his TV pitch The Hurricane's Tail into his first novel.
"Back when I was still firing in possible new series, I began to feel that the attitude was, 'He's nearly 70, this guy - forget it' - it was a bit deflating when a Head of Drama doesn't write back to you, but gets his secretary to do it," said the 81-year-old.
"That was my experience then and there's a lot of writers I know - especially around my age - who have been finding it very hard to get any ideas over."
Banks Stewart - who wrote for Doctor Who, The Sweeney and The Avengers as well - also criticised "top...
Banks Stewart - who created the popular detective dramas Bergerac and Shoestring - spoke to Digital Spy about his decision to adapt his TV pitch The Hurricane's Tail into his first novel.
"Back when I was still firing in possible new series, I began to feel that the attitude was, 'He's nearly 70, this guy - forget it' - it was a bit deflating when a Head of Drama doesn't write back to you, but gets his secretary to do it," said the 81-year-old.
"That was my experience then and there's a lot of writers I know - especially around my age - who have been finding it very hard to get any ideas over."
Banks Stewart - who wrote for Doctor Who, The Sweeney and The Avengers as well - also criticised "top...
- 4/17/2013
- Digital Spy
Richard Griffiths has died at the age of 65.
Griffiths's agent Simon Beresford confirmed that the award-winning actor passed away on Thursday (March 28) after complications following heart surgery.
The British actor was most recently seen in the play The Sunshine Boys alongside Danny DeVito.
Griffiths had an acting career spanning over 30 years, first appearing in the 1975 movie It Shouldn't Happen to a Vet.
Since then, he has had roles in much-loved films such as Pirates of The Caribbean: On Stranger Tides and Hugo, as well as classic TV series including Pie in the Sky, Minder, The Sweeney and Bergerac.
Griffiths won a Laurence Olivier Award and a Tony Award for 'Best Actor' when he starred in the play The History Boys.
He most notably appeared as Uncle Vernon in the Harry Potter series and as Uncle Monty in Withnail & I.
His Harry Potter and Equus co-star Daniel Radcliffe told BBC News...
Griffiths's agent Simon Beresford confirmed that the award-winning actor passed away on Thursday (March 28) after complications following heart surgery.
The British actor was most recently seen in the play The Sunshine Boys alongside Danny DeVito.
Griffiths had an acting career spanning over 30 years, first appearing in the 1975 movie It Shouldn't Happen to a Vet.
Since then, he has had roles in much-loved films such as Pirates of The Caribbean: On Stranger Tides and Hugo, as well as classic TV series including Pie in the Sky, Minder, The Sweeney and Bergerac.
Griffiths won a Laurence Olivier Award and a Tony Award for 'Best Actor' when he starred in the play The History Boys.
He most notably appeared as Uncle Vernon in the Harry Potter series and as Uncle Monty in Withnail & I.
His Harry Potter and Equus co-star Daniel Radcliffe told BBC News...
- 3/29/2013
- Digital Spy
If you've ever seen the classic 1973 Christmas Special of The Goodies (called The Goodies And The Beanstalk), then you'll probably remember that bit at the end when the down and out trio come across an abandoned lamp in the street. As soon as they rub the lamp – bingo! A puff of smoke and then John Cleese in a turban. Cleese then bellows “Kids' Show!” after the Goodies tell him to clear off.
I suppose that some people regarded The Goodies as the crazy younger brother of the more adult Monty Python's Flying Circus – on the surface, with its speeded-up action sequences, giant kittens, Dougals and Zebedees, I suppose you could say it's a show that's targeted towards younger ones. But then how do you explain the satirical swipes at the Royals, advertising commercialism, talent shows or apartheid?
Which neatly brings me on to Doctor Who. I was wondering this the...
I suppose that some people regarded The Goodies as the crazy younger brother of the more adult Monty Python's Flying Circus – on the surface, with its speeded-up action sequences, giant kittens, Dougals and Zebedees, I suppose you could say it's a show that's targeted towards younger ones. But then how do you explain the satirical swipes at the Royals, advertising commercialism, talent shows or apartheid?
Which neatly brings me on to Doctor Who. I was wondering this the...
- 8/14/2012
- Shadowlocked
Inspector George Gently
By Kieran Kinsella
With most of the nation under extreme heat advisories there has never been a better time to close the curtains, crank up the A/C and power up the DVD player. You can begin your summer TV-fest by watching Acorn Media’s George Gently series 4. Gently is utterly captivating. It’s set in the same dreary North Eastern corner of England as ITV’s Vera but unlike that show, Gently is set in the swinging sixties rather than the present time. Both shows tackle hard hitting subjects but George Gently isn’t as soul destroyingly depressing as Vera.
Series 4 consists of two feature length episodes. The first centers around a group of teenage girls who are desperate to enjoy the new found freedoms of the era regardless of their parent’s concerns. Things change pretty quickly when one of the girls is murdered. Gently...
By Kieran Kinsella
With most of the nation under extreme heat advisories there has never been a better time to close the curtains, crank up the A/C and power up the DVD player. You can begin your summer TV-fest by watching Acorn Media’s George Gently series 4. Gently is utterly captivating. It’s set in the same dreary North Eastern corner of England as ITV’s Vera but unlike that show, Gently is set in the swinging sixties rather than the present time. Both shows tackle hard hitting subjects but George Gently isn’t as soul destroyingly depressing as Vera.
Series 4 consists of two feature length episodes. The first centers around a group of teenage girls who are desperate to enjoy the new found freedoms of the era regardless of their parent’s concerns. Things change pretty quickly when one of the girls is murdered. Gently...
- 6/30/2012
- by Edited by K Kinsella
Cinema Retro has received the following press release:
The leading ‘Best British TV’ streaming service Acorn TV is now streaming full seasons of several popular British mystery and drama series, along with two critically acclaimed Canadian series. This week Acorn TV also has a special Memorial Day Weekend Midsomer Marathon with the first 22 episodes of its best-selling series,Midsomer Murders, and the U.S. debut of John Nettles final episodes.
Acorn TV is currently streaming a full season of Helen Mirren in Prime Suspect; the final seasons of the universally acclaimed Canadian dramedy Slings & ARROWSand Derek Jacobi’s mystery series Cadfael; the U.S. debut of the newest season of Murdoch Mysteries; Lynda La Plante’s Trial & Retribution; John Mortimer’s Under The Hammer; the final episodes of WWII drama Wish Me Luck; Richard Griffiths (Harry Potter) in Pie In The Sky; and John Nettles final episodes with Midsomer Murders,...
The leading ‘Best British TV’ streaming service Acorn TV is now streaming full seasons of several popular British mystery and drama series, along with two critically acclaimed Canadian series. This week Acorn TV also has a special Memorial Day Weekend Midsomer Marathon with the first 22 episodes of its best-selling series,Midsomer Murders, and the U.S. debut of John Nettles final episodes.
Acorn TV is currently streaming a full season of Helen Mirren in Prime Suspect; the final seasons of the universally acclaimed Canadian dramedy Slings & ARROWSand Derek Jacobi’s mystery series Cadfael; the U.S. debut of the newest season of Murdoch Mysteries; Lynda La Plante’s Trial & Retribution; John Mortimer’s Under The Hammer; the final episodes of WWII drama Wish Me Luck; Richard Griffiths (Harry Potter) in Pie In The Sky; and John Nettles final episodes with Midsomer Murders,...
- 5/24/2012
- by nospam@example.com (Cinema Retro)
- Cinemaretro.com
Louise Jameson co. Ian Fraser
Kieran Kinsella
You may know her as John Nettles’ leading lady, as Tom Baker’s able assistant or as the matriarch of a powerful East End family but if you love British TV then it is safe to say that you are a fan of Louise Jameson. Narrowing down my list of questions was no easy task considering that Louise has starred in everything from Doc Martin to Tenko, but when I recently had the chance to speak with her she provided me with a candid incite into her incredibly successful career.
What are your favorite memories of working on Doctor Who? and appearing alongside Tom Baker?
“Not too many of them I’m Afraid but I have fond memories of him recently whilst recording the audio version of our time in Doctor Who. He has been mellow, wonderful, easy going and rather brilliant. I...
Kieran Kinsella
You may know her as John Nettles’ leading lady, as Tom Baker’s able assistant or as the matriarch of a powerful East End family but if you love British TV then it is safe to say that you are a fan of Louise Jameson. Narrowing down my list of questions was no easy task considering that Louise has starred in everything from Doc Martin to Tenko, but when I recently had the chance to speak with her she provided me with a candid incite into her incredibly successful career.
What are your favorite memories of working on Doctor Who? and appearing alongside Tom Baker?
“Not too many of them I’m Afraid but I have fond memories of him recently whilst recording the audio version of our time in Doctor Who. He has been mellow, wonderful, easy going and rather brilliant. I...
- 4/17/2012
- by admin
Diana Rigg
Grey Feeney
Click here to friend Best British TV on Facebook or here to follow us on Twitter
1.Emma Peel (The Avengers). Stylish, well spoken and a martial arts expert – Emma Peel had it all. Prior to The Avengers action women were virtually unknown on British TV and since Diana Rigg first strolled onto the screen, such ladies have become scarce once again because everyone knows that no one can compete with her.
Leela
2.Leela (Doctor Who). Very few cave women get to travel through time and even fewer have the ability to change the color of their irises but Leela was no ordinary cave girl. Louise Jameson went on to have more high jinx as Bergerac’s girl but to Doctor Who fans of a certain age she’ll always be a warrior of the Sevateem.
Green Goddess
3.Diana Moran (Breakfast Time). Unlike Peel and Leela, Diana Moran...
Grey Feeney
Click here to friend Best British TV on Facebook or here to follow us on Twitter
1.Emma Peel (The Avengers). Stylish, well spoken and a martial arts expert – Emma Peel had it all. Prior to The Avengers action women were virtually unknown on British TV and since Diana Rigg first strolled onto the screen, such ladies have become scarce once again because everyone knows that no one can compete with her.
Leela
2.Leela (Doctor Who). Very few cave women get to travel through time and even fewer have the ability to change the color of their irises but Leela was no ordinary cave girl. Louise Jameson went on to have more high jinx as Bergerac’s girl but to Doctor Who fans of a certain age she’ll always be a warrior of the Sevateem.
Green Goddess
3.Diana Moran (Breakfast Time). Unlike Peel and Leela, Diana Moran...
- 1/5/2012
- by admin
The Master
K Kinsella
Click here to friend Best British TV on Facebook.
The good guys of British TV such as Doctor Who, Super Ted and Jim Bergerac always get the credit for keeping TV viewers entertained but without baddies there could be no good guys. Villains have been a major part of British TV since the black and white days so we have decided to pay tribute to these unsung anti-heroes by compiling our list of the 10 best British TV baddies.
1. The Master (Doctor Who). It is hard to believe that it is now 40 years since a rogue Timelord first made his way to Earth and started to meddle in the affairs of the Doctor (Jon Pertwee). In the history of British TV, no one has destroyed so many planets, killed so many people and worn so many different black suits. Eric Roberts, John Simm, Anthony Ainley, Peter Pratt...
K Kinsella
Click here to friend Best British TV on Facebook.
The good guys of British TV such as Doctor Who, Super Ted and Jim Bergerac always get the credit for keeping TV viewers entertained but without baddies there could be no good guys. Villains have been a major part of British TV since the black and white days so we have decided to pay tribute to these unsung anti-heroes by compiling our list of the 10 best British TV baddies.
1. The Master (Doctor Who). It is hard to believe that it is now 40 years since a rogue Timelord first made his way to Earth and started to meddle in the affairs of the Doctor (Jon Pertwee). In the history of British TV, no one has destroyed so many planets, killed so many people and worn so many different black suits. Eric Roberts, John Simm, Anthony Ainley, Peter Pratt...
- 11/1/2011
- by admin
Actor known for her roles in The Ipcress File and Crossroads
The actor Sue Lloyd, who has died aged 72, exuded glamour and sophistication on screen in the 1960s, before finding renewed fame two decades later as Barbara Hunter in 714 episodes of the TV soap opera Crossroads. But it took two attempts by the serial's producers to persuade her to join a programme that was roundly abused by the critics.
"My initial reaction was to be a bit sniffy about it," Lloyd recalled in her 1998 autobiography, It Seemed Like a Good Idea at the Time. "The soap was renowned for its wobbly scenery, bizarre storylines and regular slaughtering by the critics. Why would I, just back from filming [Revenge of] The Pink Panther with Peter Sellers in the south of France and about to embark on the comedy The Upchat Line with John Alderton, want to get involved in a project like that?...
The actor Sue Lloyd, who has died aged 72, exuded glamour and sophistication on screen in the 1960s, before finding renewed fame two decades later as Barbara Hunter in 714 episodes of the TV soap opera Crossroads. But it took two attempts by the serial's producers to persuade her to join a programme that was roundly abused by the critics.
"My initial reaction was to be a bit sniffy about it," Lloyd recalled in her 1998 autobiography, It Seemed Like a Good Idea at the Time. "The soap was renowned for its wobbly scenery, bizarre storylines and regular slaughtering by the critics. Why would I, just back from filming [Revenge of] The Pink Panther with Peter Sellers in the south of France and about to embark on the comedy The Upchat Line with John Alderton, want to get involved in a project like that?...
- 10/23/2011
- by Anthony Hayward
- The Guardian - Film News
A boy living in on a council estate is afraid and has been told to put the things that scare him into the cupboard in his room. (Why are scary things always found in the cupboard or under the bed. What is it with bedrooms and terrifying stuff.) He wants his mother, Claire (Emma Cunniffe) to do the ritual with the lights, turning them off and on five times before she leaves. George (Jamie Dram) hears the lift and even that makes him afraid. He calls out for help, "Please save me from the monsters" over and over. This is relayed eons away to the Doctor (Matt Smith) in the Tardis on his psychic paper. Just as Claire says George needs a doctor. The Doctor's doing something he's never done before, "making a housecall." Or that should be a (dolls) housecall! Sorry spoilers! The Tardis lands outside a rundown estate,...
- 9/7/2011
- by mhasan@corp.popstar.com (Mila Hasan)
- PopStar
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