With Christmas just one week (and one day) away, we wanted to ask you, the people, what your favorite Christmas Movie is? It doesn’t have to be the movie you think is the best, just the one that you eagerly anticipate watching every year. Is it the timeless tale of an angel getting its wings in It’s A Wonderful Life? or perhaps the under-appreciated (and genuinely hilarious) R rated The Night Before is how you kick off your holiday season?
Do you look forward to seeing Jack Skellington discover the true meaning of Christmas in the Christmas Movie Classic The Nightmare Before Christmas or watching Kevin McCallister take down the Wet/ Sticky Bandits in Home Alone 1&2 or perhaps seeing Clark W. Griswold struggle to have the perfect family Christmas in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is more your speed? Whatever film fills you with yuletide glee, we would love...
Do you look forward to seeing Jack Skellington discover the true meaning of Christmas in the Christmas Movie Classic The Nightmare Before Christmas or watching Kevin McCallister take down the Wet/ Sticky Bandits in Home Alone 1&2 or perhaps seeing Clark W. Griswold struggle to have the perfect family Christmas in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is more your speed? Whatever film fills you with yuletide glee, we would love...
- 12/17/2023
- by Brad Hamerly
- JoBlo.com
"Smokey and the Bandit" was a delightful '70s action-comedy movie; it spawned two sequels, the first of which was pretty damn good. For a modern audience looking back, the series was also remarkably star-studded. It featured beloved late actors like Burt Reynolds, Jackie Gleason, Patrick McCormick, and Mike Henry, most of whom are still fondly remembered over forty years after the first movie came out. Although the series itself isn't quite as well-known among today's young viewer as we'd probably prefer, most of its cast certainly is.
But what about the actors in the series who are still alive today? What are they up to? Let's check in on the lives and careers of the remaining "Smokey and the Bandit" cast, and see how they're holding up. We might never get to see that Seth MacFarlane-penned revival series we heard about back in 2020, but it's not time to...
But what about the actors in the series who are still alive today? What are they up to? Let's check in on the lives and careers of the remaining "Smokey and the Bandit" cast, and see how they're holding up. We might never get to see that Seth MacFarlane-penned revival series we heard about back in 2020, but it's not time to...
- 12/16/2023
- by SlashFilm Staff
- Slash Film
(Clockwise from bottom left:) The Nightmare Before Christmas (screenshot), Miracle On 34th Street (screenshot), Home Alone (screenshot), The Muppet Christmas Carol (screenshot)Graphic: The A.V. Club
Hearts need warming this time of year, and there’s no better streaming source for heartwarming, family-friendly entertainment than Disney+. In terms of holiday films merry and bright,...
Hearts need warming this time of year, and there’s no better streaming source for heartwarming, family-friendly entertainment than Disney+. In terms of holiday films merry and bright,...
- 12/16/2023
- by The A.V. Club
- avclub.com
Whether you’re a parent of small children or just someone who wants some wholesome entertainment, Christmas is a time of year when entertainment caters to everyone! While many of our beloved holiday classics are rated PG or PG-13, there are plenty of G-rated treasures to enjoy. We’ve compiled a list of the most family-friendly films and shows and where to stream them.
So grab your loved ones and a plate full of Christmas cookies and start streaming these timeless treasures!
Best G-Rated Christmas Movies A Charlie Brown Christmas December 9, 1965
When Charlie Brown complains about the overwhelming materialism that he sees amongst everyone during the Christmas season, Lucy suggests that he become director of the school Christmas pageant. Charlie Brown accepts, but is a frustrating struggle. When an attempt to restore the proper spirit with a forlorn little fir Christmas tree fails, he needs Linus’ help to learn the meaning of Christmas.
So grab your loved ones and a plate full of Christmas cookies and start streaming these timeless treasures!
Best G-Rated Christmas Movies A Charlie Brown Christmas December 9, 1965
When Charlie Brown complains about the overwhelming materialism that he sees amongst everyone during the Christmas season, Lucy suggests that he become director of the school Christmas pageant. Charlie Brown accepts, but is a frustrating struggle. When an attempt to restore the proper spirit with a forlorn little fir Christmas tree fails, he needs Linus’ help to learn the meaning of Christmas.
- 12/4/2023
- by Ben Bowman
- The Streamable
It’s the final month of 2023, and Hulu is just saying goodbye not just to the year but also to dozens of its top film titles. This December, the streamer will lose multiple franchise collections, including “Men in Black,” “The Matrix,” the “Bourne” collection.
At the end of the month, Hulu is wasting no time and will also clear out many of the titles in its holiday collection, meaning Dec. 31 will be your last opportunity to watch favorites such as “The Muppet Christmas Carol,” “National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation,” and “The Polar Express” on the streamer.
Bid farewell to 2023 by watching The Streamable’s Top 5 picks for what’s leaving the streamer this month, and check out the full list to make sure you catch your favorites one last time before they leave!
30-Day Free Trial $7.99+ / month hulu.com What are the 5 Best Shows and Movies Leaving Hulu in December 2023? “An Education” | Sunday,...
At the end of the month, Hulu is wasting no time and will also clear out many of the titles in its holiday collection, meaning Dec. 31 will be your last opportunity to watch favorites such as “The Muppet Christmas Carol,” “National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation,” and “The Polar Express” on the streamer.
Bid farewell to 2023 by watching The Streamable’s Top 5 picks for what’s leaving the streamer this month, and check out the full list to make sure you catch your favorites one last time before they leave!
30-Day Free Trial $7.99+ / month hulu.com What are the 5 Best Shows and Movies Leaving Hulu in December 2023? “An Education” | Sunday,...
- 12/1/2023
- by Ashley Steves
- The Streamable
“The Bear” Renewed for Season 3
The Beef is back open for business! FX and Hulu have announced the Season 3 renewal of its critically acclaimed and award-winning series “The Bear.”
Jeremy Allen White stars in the high-energy dramedy as Carmy, a young trained chef who inherits his family’s Chicago sandwich shop after the suicide of his older brother, where is inherits its debts and drama whilst dealing with his grief. Ayo Edebiri, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Lionel Boyce, Liza Colón-Zayas, Abby Elliott, and Matty Matheson co-star with Jon Bernthal, Oliver Platt, Edwin Lee Gibson, Corey Hendrix, and more rounding out the ensemble.
In Season 2, White’s Carmy, Edebiri’s Sydney, and Moss-Bachrach’s Richie work to transform the grimy sandwich shop into a next-level spot, stripping down the restaurant and sending the crew on transformational journeys of their own.
Watch the trailer for Season 2 of “The Bear” below:
Season 1 is currently nominated for 13 Emmy Awards,...
The Beef is back open for business! FX and Hulu have announced the Season 3 renewal of its critically acclaimed and award-winning series “The Bear.”
Jeremy Allen White stars in the high-energy dramedy as Carmy, a young trained chef who inherits his family’s Chicago sandwich shop after the suicide of his older brother, where is inherits its debts and drama whilst dealing with his grief. Ayo Edebiri, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Lionel Boyce, Liza Colón-Zayas, Abby Elliott, and Matty Matheson co-star with Jon Bernthal, Oliver Platt, Edwin Lee Gibson, Corey Hendrix, and more rounding out the ensemble.
In Season 2, White’s Carmy, Edebiri’s Sydney, and Moss-Bachrach’s Richie work to transform the grimy sandwich shop into a next-level spot, stripping down the restaurant and sending the crew on transformational journeys of their own.
Watch the trailer for Season 2 of “The Bear” below:
Season 1 is currently nominated for 13 Emmy Awards,...
- 11/8/2023
- by Ashley Steves
- The Streamable
Who hasn't wanted to watch a feature-length prequel story explaining every little detail about how a figure as mysterious and enigmatic as Willy Wonka became, well, Willy Wonka in the first place? Actually, wait, don't answer that question. Let's agree to let Warner Bros. live in a chocolate-infused fantasy of its own making for just a little while longer -- one where hordes of eager audiences have been hungrily demanding to see Timothée Chalamet dressed up as Gonzo in "The Muppet Christmas Carol" trading barbs and one-liners with a pint-sized, orange-faced Hugh Grant as an Oompa-Loompa.
Then again, what do I know? Maybe that's exactly what the people want! I suppose there is something strangely compelling about Chalamet in "Wonka" putting on a silly affectation of Gene Wilder's unforgettable performance as the character in 1971's "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory," a movie that we're meant to consider as...
Then again, what do I know? Maybe that's exactly what the people want! I suppose there is something strangely compelling about Chalamet in "Wonka" putting on a silly affectation of Gene Wilder's unforgettable performance as the character in 1971's "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory," a movie that we're meant to consider as...
- 10/12/2023
- by Jeremy Mathai
- Slash Film
Scrooged 35th Anniversary 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray on the way with never-before-released special features
A Christmas classic is getting the high-end treatment this season when Scrooged celebrates its 35th anniversary! The comedy starring Bill Murray as the holiday-hating Frank Cross is arriving for the first time on 4K Ultra HD from Paramount Home Entertainment on November 7, 2023, with never-before-released special features!
Originally released on November 23, 1988, Scrooged is a hilarious take on a beloved Dickens tale that has become a perennial holiday favorite. The high-spirited and biting comedy follows a television executive with a heart of stone. It features an all-star cast including Karen Allen, John Forsythe, Bobcat Goldthwait, Carol Kane, Robert Mitchum, and Alfre Woodard.
This new release includes the remastered film in sparkling 4K Ultra HD, access to a Digital copy of the film, and over 50 minutes of never-before-released special features! Take a journey with the ghost of Christmas past to discover behind-the-scenes featurettes and an insightful commentary by director Richard Donner, now on disc for the first time.
Originally released on November 23, 1988, Scrooged is a hilarious take on a beloved Dickens tale that has become a perennial holiday favorite. The high-spirited and biting comedy follows a television executive with a heart of stone. It features an all-star cast including Karen Allen, John Forsythe, Bobcat Goldthwait, Carol Kane, Robert Mitchum, and Alfre Woodard.
This new release includes the remastered film in sparkling 4K Ultra HD, access to a Digital copy of the film, and over 50 minutes of never-before-released special features! Take a journey with the ghost of Christmas past to discover behind-the-scenes featurettes and an insightful commentary by director Richard Donner, now on disc for the first time.
- 8/28/2023
- by Steve Seigh
- JoBlo.com
There are certain things, when you live in Los Angeles, that are absolute must-dos, especially in the warmer weather months: see a show at the Hollywood Bowl (but leave before the fireworks); watch a movie at an outdoor venture (Hollywood Forever Cemetery being a favorite); and, in the past few years, travel to the Jim Henson Studios to watch a raunchy improv puppet comedy show.
“Puppet Up! Uncensored,” which resumes starting Friday, has become one of the things that you have to do in Los Angeles. And TheWrap spoke to Brian Henson, chairman of the Jim Henson Company, about the origins and evolution of this one-of-a-kind show. According to Henson, the project started in the early 2000’s, when there was concern that the performers had become too “script-bound.”
“We hadn’t found a new tone of comedy, something fresh, something that wasn’t Muppets,” Henson said.
He was discussing the problem with his then-girlfriend,...
“Puppet Up! Uncensored,” which resumes starting Friday, has become one of the things that you have to do in Los Angeles. And TheWrap spoke to Brian Henson, chairman of the Jim Henson Company, about the origins and evolution of this one-of-a-kind show. According to Henson, the project started in the early 2000’s, when there was concern that the performers had become too “script-bound.”
“We hadn’t found a new tone of comedy, something fresh, something that wasn’t Muppets,” Henson said.
He was discussing the problem with his then-girlfriend,...
- 7/14/2023
- by Drew Taylor
- The Wrap
It’s always difficult for parents to find entertainment that bridges the gap between kid-friendly and not making you want to bore a hole in your skull with a giant-nailed Drilldo (look it up). In the past few decades, kiddie cartoon purveyors like DreamWorks and Illumination have attempted to bridge the gap by serving up cuddly characters spewing pop culture reference-laden dialogue, penned by Wesleyan grads with a minor coke problem. But the result invariably comes off as slick and cynical: the kids feel bored, the adults pandered to, the...
- 5/10/2023
- by Ej Dickson
- Rollingstone.com
“The Muppets Mayhem,” the latest series based on the beloved characters created by Jim Henson, will premiere all episodes on Disney+ on Wednesday, May 10, Disney announced on Tuesday.
It focuses on The Electric Mayhem Band, led by Dr. Teeth and manic drummer animal, as they try to record their first-ever studio album with the help of a driven young music executive, Nora Singh (Lilly Singh).
Adam F. Goldberg of “The Goldbergs” developed, wrote and executive produces with Bill Barretta of “The Muppets” and “Muppets Haunted Mansion,” and co-executive producer Jeff Yorkes. Watch the first teaser trailer below.
“The Muppets Mayhem” also stars Tahj Mowry as Moog and Saara Chaudry as Hannah, with Anders Holm of “Workaholics” recurring as JJ, a tech entrepreneur who happens to be Nora’s ex.
Barretta voices the band’s frontman and keyboard player Dr. Teeth, Dave Goelz is sex player Zoot, Eric Jacobson is Animal,...
It focuses on The Electric Mayhem Band, led by Dr. Teeth and manic drummer animal, as they try to record their first-ever studio album with the help of a driven young music executive, Nora Singh (Lilly Singh).
Adam F. Goldberg of “The Goldbergs” developed, wrote and executive produces with Bill Barretta of “The Muppets” and “Muppets Haunted Mansion,” and co-executive producer Jeff Yorkes. Watch the first teaser trailer below.
“The Muppets Mayhem” also stars Tahj Mowry as Moog and Saara Chaudry as Hannah, with Anders Holm of “Workaholics” recurring as JJ, a tech entrepreneur who happens to be Nora’s ex.
Barretta voices the band’s frontman and keyboard player Dr. Teeth, Dave Goelz is sex player Zoot, Eric Jacobson is Animal,...
- 4/4/2023
- by Sharon Knolle
- The Wrap
Michael Caine became a nonagenarian this week, turning 90 on March 14th. To celebrate, Michael Caine had himself a little birthday bash, with other than Tom Cruise one of the few good men in attendance.
Comedian David Walliams posted photos from Michael Caine’s birthday on his Instagram, complete with pictures of the birthday boy and Cruise. One even shows what appears to be the lamest birthday cake in history, considering it was made for a knighted, two-time Oscar-winner…You can see the pictures below:
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by David Walliams HQ (@dwalliams)
As Michael Caine and Tom Cruise are seated next to each other, we’d have to assume they’re close friends. This might be a bit of a surprise to some, considering the two have never worked on a movie together. Ok, they both have a credit on 2002’s Austin Powers in Goldmember,...
Comedian David Walliams posted photos from Michael Caine’s birthday on his Instagram, complete with pictures of the birthday boy and Cruise. One even shows what appears to be the lamest birthday cake in history, considering it was made for a knighted, two-time Oscar-winner…You can see the pictures below:
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by David Walliams HQ (@dwalliams)
As Michael Caine and Tom Cruise are seated next to each other, we’d have to assume they’re close friends. This might be a bit of a surprise to some, considering the two have never worked on a movie together. Ok, they both have a credit on 2002’s Austin Powers in Goldmember,...
- 3/17/2023
- by Mathew Plale
- JoBlo.com
The cinematic universe would be far less rich without Michael Caine. It may sound like a well-worn cliché, but he truly is an international treasure. An enduring icon with a seven-decade career. He’s appeared in such acclaimed films as
“Alfie,” “Get Carter,” Sleuth,” “The Man Who Would Be King,” “Educating Rita,” “Hannah and Her Sisters,” “The Cider House Rules,” “The Muppet Christmas Carol” and Christopher Nolan’s “Dark Knight” trilogy.
He’s received six Oscar nominations and won two Academy Awards, a BAFTA, three Golden Globes, a Screen Actors Guld Award and numerous critics’ honors. He’s made Cockney accents and oversized glasses sexy. He’s an accomplished writer, penning two memoirs: 1992’s “What’s It All about” and 2010’s ‘The Elephant to Hollywood.” And two days after the 95th Oscars, Caine will celebrate his 90th birthday. Though Caine walks with a cane due to a spine issues, he...
“Alfie,” “Get Carter,” Sleuth,” “The Man Who Would Be King,” “Educating Rita,” “Hannah and Her Sisters,” “The Cider House Rules,” “The Muppet Christmas Carol” and Christopher Nolan’s “Dark Knight” trilogy.
He’s received six Oscar nominations and won two Academy Awards, a BAFTA, three Golden Globes, a Screen Actors Guld Award and numerous critics’ honors. He’s made Cockney accents and oversized glasses sexy. He’s an accomplished writer, penning two memoirs: 1992’s “What’s It All about” and 2010’s ‘The Elephant to Hollywood.” And two days after the 95th Oscars, Caine will celebrate his 90th birthday. Though Caine walks with a cane due to a spine issues, he...
- 3/13/2023
- by Susan King
- Gold Derby
Disney’s magnum opus “Avatar: The Way Of Water” remained atop the U.K. and Ireland box office with £4.9 million (6 million) in its second weekend.
James Cameron’s return to Pandora now has a total of £25.03 million in the territory, according to numbers from Comscore.
In second place, in its fifth weekend, Sony/TriStar Pictures’ Roald Dahl adaptation “Matilda the Musical” collected another £1.1 million for a total of £16.1 million.
Richard Curtis’ perennially popular romantic comedy “Love Actually,” rereleased by Park Circus, charted in third position with £408,179, while another holiday season rerelease from the company, “Elf,” snared £252,061 in fourth place.
Rounding off the top five, in its fourth weekend, was Universal’s bad Santa hit “Violent Night” with £246,399 for a total of £3.3 million.
In sixth place, in its seventh weekend, Disney’s “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” collected £200,946 for a total of £32.2 million. And in ninth position, in its fifth weekend, Disney...
James Cameron’s return to Pandora now has a total of £25.03 million in the territory, according to numbers from Comscore.
In second place, in its fifth weekend, Sony/TriStar Pictures’ Roald Dahl adaptation “Matilda the Musical” collected another £1.1 million for a total of £16.1 million.
Richard Curtis’ perennially popular romantic comedy “Love Actually,” rereleased by Park Circus, charted in third position with £408,179, while another holiday season rerelease from the company, “Elf,” snared £252,061 in fourth place.
Rounding off the top five, in its fourth weekend, was Universal’s bad Santa hit “Violent Night” with £246,399 for a total of £3.3 million.
In sixth place, in its seventh weekend, Disney’s “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” collected £200,946 for a total of £32.2 million. And in ninth position, in its fifth weekend, Disney...
- 12/28/2022
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Christmas movies are numerous and greatly vary in quality and entertainment value – to put it mildly. For every great one, there are dozens, if not hundreds of disposable, Hallmark-style movies. But, there are no shortage of great holidays picks to entertain you and your family this holiday season, so here are some of our own personal Christmas classics!
The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
Originally not exactly beloved at the time (critics didn’t appreciate the film and audiences seemed tepid about it), it has now become a family classic that is enjoyed every year. It’s become a sort of cult film that transcended its status and circled back to being a major hit for Jim Henson Studios (and Disney who now owns it). What makes this one so great is that mix of whimsy with a classic performance from Michael Caine who played his character 100 serious and direct while surrounded by Muppets.
The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
Originally not exactly beloved at the time (critics didn’t appreciate the film and audiences seemed tepid about it), it has now become a family classic that is enjoyed every year. It’s become a sort of cult film that transcended its status and circled back to being a major hit for Jim Henson Studios (and Disney who now owns it). What makes this one so great is that mix of whimsy with a classic performance from Michael Caine who played his character 100 serious and direct while surrounded by Muppets.
- 12/24/2022
- by Emilie Black
- JoBlo.com
We all remember the time in our childhood when our parents/guardians sat us down and explained to us one of the hard truths of life: voice actors don't live forever. And we cried, and started pleading with them, asking "what about Bugs Bunny? He's had a consistent voice for over a hundred years!" To which they replied, "no he hasn't." And with tears in our eyes, we ran to our rooms, saving our caretakers from having to confront their own mortality.
When the voice actor of an iconic character passes away, the question of how to proceed with that character inevitably arises. For some, like Edna Krabappel of "The Simpsons," the character was respectfully retired after voice actor Marcia Wallace died. But for other characters, especially ones that have existed for decades and decades, a replacement must be found. This was the case with Minnie Mouse, whose longtime voice actor,...
When the voice actor of an iconic character passes away, the question of how to proceed with that character inevitably arises. For some, like Edna Krabappel of "The Simpsons," the character was respectfully retired after voice actor Marcia Wallace died. But for other characters, especially ones that have existed for decades and decades, a replacement must be found. This was the case with Minnie Mouse, whose longtime voice actor,...
- 12/23/2022
- by Matt Rainis
- Slash Film
Roxy Cinema
Friday offers Amadeus on 35mm, Hardcore, and Christmas Evil.
Film at Lincoln Center
Lars von Trier’s The Kingdom II, restored in a new director’s cut, begins a run.
Metrograph
Hou Hsiao-hsien’s Millennium Mambo, newly restored in 4K is now playing, alongside more films from Taipei and new holiday classics.
Film Forum
The Rules of the Game screens in a new 4K restoration; Orson Welles’ The Trial, restored in 4K, continues a run, as does The Draughtsman’s Contract; Star Wars screens this Sunday.
Museum of the Moving Image
The director’s cut series offers A Short Film About Killing and A Short Film About Love on Friday, while Seeds screens; The Shop Around the Corner plays Friday and Saturday, the latter day offering The Muppet Christmas Carol.
IFC Center
Freshly anointed the greatest film of all-time, Jeanne Dielman continues a run, while the second-greatest, Vertigo,...
Friday offers Amadeus on 35mm, Hardcore, and Christmas Evil.
Film at Lincoln Center
Lars von Trier’s The Kingdom II, restored in a new director’s cut, begins a run.
Metrograph
Hou Hsiao-hsien’s Millennium Mambo, newly restored in 4K is now playing, alongside more films from Taipei and new holiday classics.
Film Forum
The Rules of the Game screens in a new 4K restoration; Orson Welles’ The Trial, restored in 4K, continues a run, as does The Draughtsman’s Contract; Star Wars screens this Sunday.
Museum of the Moving Image
The director’s cut series offers A Short Film About Killing and A Short Film About Love on Friday, while Seeds screens; The Shop Around the Corner plays Friday and Saturday, the latter day offering The Muppet Christmas Carol.
IFC Center
Freshly anointed the greatest film of all-time, Jeanne Dielman continues a run, while the second-greatest, Vertigo,...
- 12/23/2022
- by Nick Newman
- The Film Stage
There’s nothing better than firing up a Christmas classic while sitting around a crackling fire or getting your tree decorated. These days, which indeed are merry and bright, can be made merrier and brighter with the right visual accompaniment. And there’s just something about a Disney Christmas movie or special that is even more powerful. Below are 11 great options for a snuggly night in, embroidered and made bolder by that specific Disney magic.
Behold, our list of the best Christmas movies to watch on Disney+ right now.
Also Read:
The Best Christmas Movies on Amazon Prime Video Right Now Iron Man 3 (2013) Photo: Marvel Studios
Yes, “Iron Man 3” is a Christmas movie. In fact, “Iron Man 3’s” Christmas setting is an example of one of the few Marvel Studios movies to be set in a specific time; the rest of them are all part of a...
Behold, our list of the best Christmas movies to watch on Disney+ right now.
Also Read:
The Best Christmas Movies on Amazon Prime Video Right Now Iron Man 3 (2013) Photo: Marvel Studios
Yes, “Iron Man 3” is a Christmas movie. In fact, “Iron Man 3’s” Christmas setting is an example of one of the few Marvel Studios movies to be set in a specific time; the rest of them are all part of a...
- 12/22/2022
- by Drew Taylor
- The Wrap
On December 11, 1992, “The Muppet Christmas Carol” was released to theaters. In his three-star review, Roger Ebert said that the movie “could have done with a few more songs than it has.” And he was right – up until the very last minute, there was an extra song (“When Love Is Gone”) that was removed at the insistence of a pushy Disney executive. Now, all these years later (and after one very close call), the song has been reinstated. “The Muppet Christmas Carol” is finally whole.
This is the story of how the movie came to be, how it lost a song and how that song eventually was found again.
Uncertain Times
On May 16, 1990, Jim Henson died following a short illness. He was only 53. (It was ultimately ruled toxic shock syndrome caused by Streptococcus pyogenes.)
At the time of his death, Henson was in negotiations to sell his company (and most of...
This is the story of how the movie came to be, how it lost a song and how that song eventually was found again.
Uncertain Times
On May 16, 1990, Jim Henson died following a short illness. He was only 53. (It was ultimately ruled toxic shock syndrome caused by Streptococcus pyogenes.)
At the time of his death, Henson was in negotiations to sell his company (and most of...
- 12/21/2022
- by Drew Taylor
- The Wrap
Disney’s “Avatar: The Way Of Water” created a tidal wave at the U.K. and Ireland box office in its opening weekend washing away almost everything in its path.
James Cameron’s much-anticipated return to Pandora debuted at No. 1 with a gargantuan £11.1 million (13.5 million), per numbers released by Comscore. The film’s opening is 68 higher than the three-day total for “Avatar” in 2009, which went on to a lifetime gross of £96.7 million in the territory.
Sony/TriStar Pictures’ “Matilda the Musical,” after enjoying three weekends atop the box office, descended to second place in its fourth weekend with £1.3 million, for a total of £12.7 million.
In its sixth weekend, Disney’s “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” collected £377,824 for a total of £35.5 million in third position. In fourth place, Universal’s “Violent Night” took £352,281 in its third weekend and now has a total of £2.6 million.
Rounding off the top five was Disney’s...
James Cameron’s much-anticipated return to Pandora debuted at No. 1 with a gargantuan £11.1 million (13.5 million), per numbers released by Comscore. The film’s opening is 68 higher than the three-day total for “Avatar” in 2009, which went on to a lifetime gross of £96.7 million in the territory.
Sony/TriStar Pictures’ “Matilda the Musical,” after enjoying three weekends atop the box office, descended to second place in its fourth weekend with £1.3 million, for a total of £12.7 million.
In its sixth weekend, Disney’s “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” collected £377,824 for a total of £35.5 million in third position. In fourth place, Universal’s “Violent Night” took £352,281 in its third weekend and now has a total of £2.6 million.
Rounding off the top five was Disney’s...
- 12/21/2022
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
James Cameron sequel scores joint seventh-highest weekend opening total for a post-pandemic title.
Rank Film (distributor) Three-day gross (Dec 16-18) Total gross to date Week 1. Avatar: The Way Of Water (Disney) £11.2m £11.2m 1 2. Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical (Sony)
£1.3m £12.7m 4 3. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (Disney)
£377,598 £31.6m 6 4. Violent Night (Universal) £352,203 £2.7m 3 5. Strange World (Disney)
£193,659 £2m 4
Gbp to Usd conversion rate: 1.22
Disney’s Avatar: The Way Of Water has claimed its spot atop the UK-Ireland box office this weekend with ease, banking £11.2m in its debut.
This figure is above the original film, which took £6.7m (plus £1.8m in previews...
Rank Film (distributor) Three-day gross (Dec 16-18) Total gross to date Week 1. Avatar: The Way Of Water (Disney) £11.2m £11.2m 1 2. Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical (Sony)
£1.3m £12.7m 4 3. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (Disney)
£377,598 £31.6m 6 4. Violent Night (Universal) £352,203 £2.7m 3 5. Strange World (Disney)
£193,659 £2m 4
Gbp to Usd conversion rate: 1.22
Disney’s Avatar: The Way Of Water has claimed its spot atop the UK-Ireland box office this weekend with ease, banking £11.2m in its debut.
This figure is above the original film, which took £6.7m (plus £1.8m in previews...
- 12/19/2022
- by Mona Tabbara
- ScreenDaily
Sony release “Matilda the Musical” stayed in pole position at the U.K. and Ireland box office for the third weekend in a row. The Roald Dahl adaptation added £2.1 million (2.6 million) for a total of £10.7 million, according to numbers released by Comscore.
In second place, Disney’s “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” collected £803,800 for a total of £30.8 million after five weekends. In third position, Universal’s “Violent Night” earned £567,351 for a total of £1.9 million after its second weekend.
In fourth place was Disney’s “Strange World,” which took £305,802 and now has £1.7 million after three weekends. Rounding off the top five, another Disney release, “The Menu,” earned £192,827 and now has a total of £3 million after its fourth weekend.
In seventh place, the Royal Opera House’s filmed ballet “The Nutcracker” collected £133,397 in its second weekend and now has a total of £702,216.
The sixth, eighth, ninth and 10th position in the top 10 were...
In second place, Disney’s “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” collected £803,800 for a total of £30.8 million after five weekends. In third position, Universal’s “Violent Night” earned £567,351 for a total of £1.9 million after its second weekend.
In fourth place was Disney’s “Strange World,” which took £305,802 and now has £1.7 million after three weekends. Rounding off the top five, another Disney release, “The Menu,” earned £192,827 and now has a total of £3 million after its fourth weekend.
In seventh place, the Royal Opera House’s filmed ballet “The Nutcracker” collected £133,397 in its second weekend and now has a total of £702,216.
The sixth, eighth, ninth and 10th position in the top 10 were...
- 12/14/2022
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Joanna Page has recalled an embarrassing moment from the first ever Love Actually read-through.
The Gavin & Stacey star appears in Richard Curtis’s 2003 Christmas romcom as Judy, a body double working in film.
Her character is required to perform sex scenes alongside fellow actor John (Martin Freeman), but the pair end up striking up a tentative romantic relationship off-camera.
Appearing on Loose Women on Tuesday (13 December), Page admitted that she’d only ever seen the film once.
She then shared a story from the set of the film, when she was sat at the read-through alongside the likes of Emma Thompson, Alan Rickman and Liam Neeson.
“I just remember getting there, I was 23, brand new,” she said. ‘Like, ‘Oh my god, I can’t believe everyone is here.”
She then recalled how everyone was present apart from the women Colin Frissell (Kris Marshall) meets in America, played by January Jones,...
The Gavin & Stacey star appears in Richard Curtis’s 2003 Christmas romcom as Judy, a body double working in film.
Her character is required to perform sex scenes alongside fellow actor John (Martin Freeman), but the pair end up striking up a tentative romantic relationship off-camera.
Appearing on Loose Women on Tuesday (13 December), Page admitted that she’d only ever seen the film once.
She then shared a story from the set of the film, when she was sat at the read-through alongside the likes of Emma Thompson, Alan Rickman and Liam Neeson.
“I just remember getting there, I was 23, brand new,” she said. ‘Like, ‘Oh my god, I can’t believe everyone is here.”
She then recalled how everyone was present apart from the women Colin Frissell (Kris Marshall) meets in America, played by January Jones,...
- 12/13/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - Film
Forget presents and festive cheer -- for many, the real gift of Christmas is that it allows us some precious downtime to revisit a few familiar festive faves. There's just something oddly soothing about knowing that, during the period between Christmas and New Year's when time slows to a crawl and we all collectively lose track of what day it is, the only thing we're actually expected to do is chill out, get comfy, and rewatch seasonal classics that we've all seen countless times before.
That said, what if you're craving something new to add to your annual Christmas rotation? After all, December can't always be about "Home Alone" and "The Muppet Christmas Carol." Sometimes you need to mix it up with something new and unexpected. If this sounds like you, then perhaps it's time you turned your attention to a Christmas movie or special that's gone underappreciated since its debut.
That said, what if you're craving something new to add to your annual Christmas rotation? After all, December can't always be about "Home Alone" and "The Muppet Christmas Carol." Sometimes you need to mix it up with something new and unexpected. If this sounds like you, then perhaps it's time you turned your attention to a Christmas movie or special that's gone underappreciated since its debut.
- 12/12/2022
- by Simon Bland
- Slash Film
“The Muppet Christmas Carol” is whole again. As the film celebrates its 30th anniversary on Dec. 11, Belle’s long-lost fan-favorite song “When Love Is Gone” has finally been restored. A full version of the holiday classic (with the tear-jerker ballad included) is now available to stream on Disney+.
“It’s the strangest thing,” Meredith Braun, who portrayed Belle, tells Variety. “How many years later and they’ve suddenly put it back in! For me, it’s the gift that keeps on giving in a kind of funny way.”
The song, in which Scrooge’s young love bids him a tearful goodbye due to his miserly ways, was cut from the film’s original theatrical release. Director Brian Henson told Entertainment Weekly that Jeffrey Katzenberg, who was the Disney studio chief at the time, suggested the song be removed.
“He said, ‘Do you see how antsy those kids are getting?'” Henson told the outlet.
“It’s the strangest thing,” Meredith Braun, who portrayed Belle, tells Variety. “How many years later and they’ve suddenly put it back in! For me, it’s the gift that keeps on giving in a kind of funny way.”
The song, in which Scrooge’s young love bids him a tearful goodbye due to his miserly ways, was cut from the film’s original theatrical release. Director Brian Henson told Entertainment Weekly that Jeffrey Katzenberg, who was the Disney studio chief at the time, suggested the song be removed.
“He said, ‘Do you see how antsy those kids are getting?'” Henson told the outlet.
- 12/11/2022
- by Katcy Stephan
- Variety Film + TV
"A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens was embraced by the British public from the moment it first dropped in 1843; it was an instant bestseller and the work has never been out of print since (via ThoughtCo). Almost 60 years later, the festive tale took a leap to the new-fangled medium of cinema with "Scrooge, or Marley's Ghost" in 1901. That title hinted at a vision of Film Adaptations Yet to Come; Scrooge was the star of the show and would become a juicy role for dozens of famous actors over the next 120 years.
Since Daniel Smith donned Scrooge's nightcap in that pioneering first adaptation, George C. Scott, Albert Finney, Reginald Owen, Patrick Stewart, and Henry Winkler have all given their distinctive take on the role, while Alastair Sim remains many people's definitive version of the character. Bill Murray put a modern spin on the tale in "Scrooged," while in animation we've had Mr. Magoo,...
Since Daniel Smith donned Scrooge's nightcap in that pioneering first adaptation, George C. Scott, Albert Finney, Reginald Owen, Patrick Stewart, and Henry Winkler have all given their distinctive take on the role, while Alastair Sim remains many people's definitive version of the character. Bill Murray put a modern spin on the tale in "Scrooged," while in animation we've had Mr. Magoo,...
- 12/10/2022
- by Lee Adams
- Slash Film
Why are people so frigid when it comes to foreign films? When Korean filmmaker Bong Joon-ho, upon receiving a Golden Globe for his 2019 drama Parasite, spoke wryly about overcoming “the one-inch-tall barrier of subtitles”, his words were tinged with a long-held truth. For many people, foreign cinema has always been a daunting proposition, a confection to be enjoyed by snobs and dyed-in-the-wool cinephiles. “Foreign film” is, of course, an umbrella term too wide to be useful: works of accessible pop entertainment like Seven Samurai or Playtime are lumped in with challenging arthouse fare like Jeanne Dielman. But it’s a term that persists in the minds of the public. With a few very occasional exceptions – Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon; Life is Beautiful – foreign-language films have always struggled to find a wide audience in the West. And yet, look at the UK’s current Netflix film rankings, and you will see...
- 12/7/2022
- by Louis Chilton
- The Independent - Film
Comedian Sandi Toksvig has given fans an update on her health after being admitted to hospital.
The 64-year-old Bake Off presenter was touring Australia when she contracted bronchial pneumonia. She was then taken to hospital for treatment.
Writing on Twitter, Toksvig said: “Thank you to everyone who has sent such kind words while I’ve been unwell. I am now out of hospital and continuing my convalescence in Australia until I’m fit to fly home.
“My undying (literally) thanks to the amazing Australian health service.”
Before being sent to hospital, Toksvig had performed dates in Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide, and had been due to tour New Zealand next week, with dates lined up in Christchurch, Wellington and Auckland.
A previous statement shared on Toksvig’s Twitter account on Saturday (3 December) read: “Due to illness, Sandi has cancelled the New Zealand leg of her tour.
“She has been admitted to...
The 64-year-old Bake Off presenter was touring Australia when she contracted bronchial pneumonia. She was then taken to hospital for treatment.
Writing on Twitter, Toksvig said: “Thank you to everyone who has sent such kind words while I’ve been unwell. I am now out of hospital and continuing my convalescence in Australia until I’m fit to fly home.
“My undying (literally) thanks to the amazing Australian health service.”
Before being sent to hospital, Toksvig had performed dates in Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide, and had been due to tour New Zealand next week, with dates lined up in Christchurch, Wellington and Auckland.
A previous statement shared on Toksvig’s Twitter account on Saturday (3 December) read: “Due to illness, Sandi has cancelled the New Zealand leg of her tour.
“She has been admitted to...
- 12/6/2022
- by Louis Chilton
- The Independent - TV
Lin-Manuel Miranda has revealed the direct message he received from director Taika Waititi following the release of Disney’s Encanto last year.
The Hamilton composer wrote the songs for the hit animated musical, including the chart hit “We Don’t Talk About Bruno”.
In an interview with Variety, Miranda looked back on the immediate reaction to the success of “We Don’t Talk About Bruno”.
“Honestly, before it ever left my house, it was my father-in-law, Frank,” said Miranda. “He was like, ‘Lin, I know I’m not supposed to listen when you’re writing. But I’ve been singing ‘We don’t talk about Bruno’ in my head for three f***ing days!’
“And that was before I think I even sent it to [the film’s] creative [team] – he just heard me caterwauling in my office.”
According to Miranda, he was sent a message by Thor: Love and Thunder filmmaker Waititi after...
The Hamilton composer wrote the songs for the hit animated musical, including the chart hit “We Don’t Talk About Bruno”.
In an interview with Variety, Miranda looked back on the immediate reaction to the success of “We Don’t Talk About Bruno”.
“Honestly, before it ever left my house, it was my father-in-law, Frank,” said Miranda. “He was like, ‘Lin, I know I’m not supposed to listen when you’re writing. But I’ve been singing ‘We don’t talk about Bruno’ in my head for three f***ing days!’
“And that was before I think I even sent it to [the film’s] creative [team] – he just heard me caterwauling in my office.”
According to Miranda, he was sent a message by Thor: Love and Thunder filmmaker Waititi after...
- 12/6/2022
- by Louis Chilton
- The Independent - Film
Arctic Monkeys have been given a headline slot for Nos Alive festival next summer.
The festival announced the Sheffield band as its Friday headliner on Tuesday morning (6 December).
Nos Alive is based in Lisbon, Portugal and will run from Thursday 6 July to Saturday 8 July 2023.
“Arctic Monkeys play @NOS_Alive in July 2023. Tickets on sale now,” wrote the band on Twitter.
This year’s headliners included the likes of Florence + The Machine, Fontaines DC and Phoebe Bridgers.
In The Independent’s four star review of 2022’s festival, Nicole Vassell said it was “impossible not to have a great time”.
“There’s an atmosphere of fun and friendliness that feels completely unique to Nos Alive.”
“Despite being mostly rock and electronic focused, the 14-year-old festival does well to integrate Portugal’s traditional Fado music and stand-up comedy scene, as well as giving rap, pop and soul artists their time to shine,” she said of the event.
The festival announced the Sheffield band as its Friday headliner on Tuesday morning (6 December).
Nos Alive is based in Lisbon, Portugal and will run from Thursday 6 July to Saturday 8 July 2023.
“Arctic Monkeys play @NOS_Alive in July 2023. Tickets on sale now,” wrote the band on Twitter.
This year’s headliners included the likes of Florence + The Machine, Fontaines DC and Phoebe Bridgers.
In The Independent’s four star review of 2022’s festival, Nicole Vassell said it was “impossible not to have a great time”.
“There’s an atmosphere of fun and friendliness that feels completely unique to Nos Alive.”
“Despite being mostly rock and electronic focused, the 14-year-old festival does well to integrate Portugal’s traditional Fado music and stand-up comedy scene, as well as giving rap, pop and soul artists their time to shine,” she said of the event.
- 12/6/2022
- by Megan Graye
- The Independent - Music
Mindy Kaling has reflected on the legacy of The Office (US), claiming that many of its characters would be “cancelled” today.
The series – adapted from Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant’s seminal British sitcom of the same name – ran from 2005 to 2013.
Kaling played Kelly Kapoor in 157 episodes of the show, also serving as a writer, executive producer, and director.
During an appearance on Good Morning America last week, Kaling was asked when she would allow her children to watch the series.
“I kind of think maybe never,” she responded. “That show was so inappropriate. We always talk about – the writers I’m still in touch with – we talk about how so much of that show we probably couldn’t make now.
“Tastes have changed and honestly what offends people has changed so much now. I think that it’s one of the reasons the show is popular because there’s...
The series – adapted from Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant’s seminal British sitcom of the same name – ran from 2005 to 2013.
Kaling played Kelly Kapoor in 157 episodes of the show, also serving as a writer, executive producer, and director.
During an appearance on Good Morning America last week, Kaling was asked when she would allow her children to watch the series.
“I kind of think maybe never,” she responded. “That show was so inappropriate. We always talk about – the writers I’m still in touch with – we talk about how so much of that show we probably couldn’t make now.
“Tastes have changed and honestly what offends people has changed so much now. I think that it’s one of the reasons the show is popular because there’s...
- 12/6/2022
- by Louis Chilton
- The Independent - TV
Robert Downey Jr has hit back at Quentin Tarantino’s criticism of Marvel movies.
The Pulp Fiction filmmaker spoke out against the “Marvel-isation of Hollywood” in an interview last month, claiming that there weren’t any “movie stars” coming through anymore.
“Part of the Marvel-isation of Hollywood is… you have all these actors who have become famous playing these characters,” he said. “But they’re not movie stars. Right?
“Captain America is the star. Or Thor is the star. I mean, I’m not the first person to say that. I think that’s been said a zillion times, you know, but it’s like, you know, it’s these franchise characters that become a star.”
Tarantino’s comments were disputed by Marvel stars including Shang-Chi’s Simu Liu and his frequent collaborator Samuel L Jackson.
Now, Iron Man star Downey has addressed the comments in an interview with Deadline.
The Pulp Fiction filmmaker spoke out against the “Marvel-isation of Hollywood” in an interview last month, claiming that there weren’t any “movie stars” coming through anymore.
“Part of the Marvel-isation of Hollywood is… you have all these actors who have become famous playing these characters,” he said. “But they’re not movie stars. Right?
“Captain America is the star. Or Thor is the star. I mean, I’m not the first person to say that. I think that’s been said a zillion times, you know, but it’s like, you know, it’s these franchise characters that become a star.”
Tarantino’s comments were disputed by Marvel stars including Shang-Chi’s Simu Liu and his frequent collaborator Samuel L Jackson.
Now, Iron Man star Downey has addressed the comments in an interview with Deadline.
- 12/6/2022
- by Louis Chilton
- The Independent - Film
Billie Eilish says she feels “most powerful” when she feels “masculine”.
The star was discussing her experience growing up in the limelight in an interview for BBC 100 Women in Conversation.
Last year, the 20-year-old appeared on the cover of BritishVogue wearing a satin corset – something that caused a stir among the public, due to the fact she usually appeared wearing baggy clothes.
The singer had previously been criticised for defying gender stereotypes, but she also got backlash for appearing to conform.
“I love these photos and I loved this shoot. Do whatever you want whenever you want,” Eilish wrote at the time on Instagram in response to the criticism.
In an interview being aired on BBC Three on Tuesday night (6 Decemeber), the star explains how she feels comfortable expressing “a balance of both” sides of herself, despite feeling most “powerful” when masculine.
"I feel the most powerful when I feel masculine,...
The star was discussing her experience growing up in the limelight in an interview for BBC 100 Women in Conversation.
Last year, the 20-year-old appeared on the cover of BritishVogue wearing a satin corset – something that caused a stir among the public, due to the fact she usually appeared wearing baggy clothes.
The singer had previously been criticised for defying gender stereotypes, but she also got backlash for appearing to conform.
“I love these photos and I loved this shoot. Do whatever you want whenever you want,” Eilish wrote at the time on Instagram in response to the criticism.
In an interview being aired on BBC Three on Tuesday night (6 Decemeber), the star explains how she feels comfortable expressing “a balance of both” sides of herself, despite feeling most “powerful” when masculine.
"I feel the most powerful when I feel masculine,...
- 12/6/2022
- by Megan Graye
- The Independent - Music
Warner Bros’ The Flash starring Ezra Miller will now be released sooner than planned.
The film, which was originally headed for cinemas on 23 June 2023, will now show in cinemas from 16 June.
The film stars Miller in the leading role of The Flash aka Barry Allen.
The Flash’s fate was hanging in the balance after a series of allegations against Miller which ranged from assault to burglary.
However, in August, the actor broke their silence by issuing a statement which explained that they were “suffering complex mental health issues”.
“Having recently gone through a time of intense crisis, I now understand that I am suffering complex mental health issues and have begun ongoing treatment,” read a statement provided to Variety by Miller’s representatives.
“I want to apologise to everyone that I have alarmed and upset with my past behavior,” they continued, adding, “I am committed to doing the necessary...
The film, which was originally headed for cinemas on 23 June 2023, will now show in cinemas from 16 June.
The film stars Miller in the leading role of The Flash aka Barry Allen.
The Flash’s fate was hanging in the balance after a series of allegations against Miller which ranged from assault to burglary.
However, in August, the actor broke their silence by issuing a statement which explained that they were “suffering complex mental health issues”.
“Having recently gone through a time of intense crisis, I now understand that I am suffering complex mental health issues and have begun ongoing treatment,” read a statement provided to Variety by Miller’s representatives.
“I want to apologise to everyone that I have alarmed and upset with my past behavior,” they continued, adding, “I am committed to doing the necessary...
- 12/6/2022
- by Megan Graye
- The Independent - Film
Angela Bassett has revealed that a major scene in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever ended up on the cutting room floor.
The actor plays Queen Ramonda, the mother of T’Challa (Chadwick Boseman) and Shuri (Letitia Wright), in both Black Panther films, as well as in Avengers: Endgame.
During a recent appearance on Variety’s “Awards Circuit Podcast”, Bassett described a scene that she filmed with co-star Lupita Nyong’o that was ultimately cut in order to create a greater surprise later.
Caution: major spoilers for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever follow!
In the film’s mid-credits scene, a staple of Marvel films, Nakia (played by Nyong’o) introduces Shuri to Touissant (Divine Love Konadu-Sun), her son with the late T’Challa.
However, it was originally planned for the audience to meet Toussaint earlier in the story, when watching Ramonda visit her grandson in Haiti.
“I filmed a scene,” Bassett said. “I did,...
The actor plays Queen Ramonda, the mother of T’Challa (Chadwick Boseman) and Shuri (Letitia Wright), in both Black Panther films, as well as in Avengers: Endgame.
During a recent appearance on Variety’s “Awards Circuit Podcast”, Bassett described a scene that she filmed with co-star Lupita Nyong’o that was ultimately cut in order to create a greater surprise later.
Caution: major spoilers for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever follow!
In the film’s mid-credits scene, a staple of Marvel films, Nakia (played by Nyong’o) introduces Shuri to Touissant (Divine Love Konadu-Sun), her son with the late T’Challa.
However, it was originally planned for the audience to meet Toussaint earlier in the story, when watching Ramonda visit her grandson in Haiti.
“I filmed a scene,” Bassett said. “I did,...
- 12/6/2022
- by Nicole Vassell
- The Independent - Film
Ashton Kutcher and his twin brother Michael Kutcher have revealed some of the things that have caused them to have issues in their relationship over the years.
The actor is well known for his role as Michael Kelso on That ’70s Show, in which he starred with his now-wife, Mila Kunis.
He also hosted the prank TV show, Punk’d, as well as starring in films such as Guess Who, Just Married and a Steve Jobs biopic, Jobs.
However, during his rise as an actor in the late 1990s and early 2000s, Ashton had long been dealing with complicated feelings related to his twin brother, Michael.
Michael was born with cerebral palsy, a series of conditions that affect the brain and movement, while Ashton was not.
The brothers feature on a forthcoming episode of the Paramount Plus series The Checkup with Dr Agus, where Ashton admits to having difficulties acknowledging Michael’s health.
The actor is well known for his role as Michael Kelso on That ’70s Show, in which he starred with his now-wife, Mila Kunis.
He also hosted the prank TV show, Punk’d, as well as starring in films such as Guess Who, Just Married and a Steve Jobs biopic, Jobs.
However, during his rise as an actor in the late 1990s and early 2000s, Ashton had long been dealing with complicated feelings related to his twin brother, Michael.
Michael was born with cerebral palsy, a series of conditions that affect the brain and movement, while Ashton was not.
The brothers feature on a forthcoming episode of the Paramount Plus series The Checkup with Dr Agus, where Ashton admits to having difficulties acknowledging Michael’s health.
- 12/6/2022
- by Nicole Vassell
- The Independent - TV
There are Christmas movies, then there’s The Muppet Christmas Carol. In the years since its arrival in 1992, this surprisingly dedicated adaptation of Charles Dickens’ defining redemption story has emerged as a modern classic, dripping with nostalgia and indelibly linked to the childhood of a generation thanks to countless festive repeats. Full of memorable moments, beloved songs and that warm, fuzzy, festive feeling – for many, it’s just not Christmas until you’ve seen a frog in a top hat teach Michael Caine’s Scrooge the importance of empathy.
But beneath Kermit’s compassion and Ebeneezer’s humbugs lies an equally restorative tale of how Christmas saved the Muppets during their darkest hour. Reeling from the sudden death of Jim Henson, the company’s troupe of performers and its new de facto leader, Jim’s son Brian Henson, were left with a looming question: can this gang of frogs, bears,...
But beneath Kermit’s compassion and Ebeneezer’s humbugs lies an equally restorative tale of how Christmas saved the Muppets during their darkest hour. Reeling from the sudden death of Jim Henson, the company’s troupe of performers and its new de facto leader, Jim’s son Brian Henson, were left with a looming question: can this gang of frogs, bears,...
- 12/5/2022
- by Simon Bland
- The Independent - Film
There are few things in this world that wouldn't become more enjoyable with the addition of the Muppets. Are you suffering through the child's birthday party you're attending? Well, here come the Muppets to liven things up! Is the anti-smoking PSA you're watching a bit depressing? Send in the Muppets! Divorce proceedings got you down? It's much more fun when you discover that The Great Gonzo is the judge!
This universal rule is why "The Muppet Christmas Carol" is so great. The movie is wonderful, however, because it also has Michael Caine playing the role of Ebenezer Scrooge. The film was the directorial debut of Brian Henson — the son of the legendary puppeteer, Jim Henson — and was greatly enhanced by the clash in styles of two legendary performers: Michael Caine and Kermit the Frog. While Kermit and his Muppet co-workers are known for their madcap antics, Caine went into the film with a different mindset.
This universal rule is why "The Muppet Christmas Carol" is so great. The movie is wonderful, however, because it also has Michael Caine playing the role of Ebenezer Scrooge. The film was the directorial debut of Brian Henson — the son of the legendary puppeteer, Jim Henson — and was greatly enhanced by the clash in styles of two legendary performers: Michael Caine and Kermit the Frog. While Kermit and his Muppet co-workers are known for their madcap antics, Caine went into the film with a different mindset.
- 12/4/2022
- by Matt Rainis
- Slash Film
Brian Henson, son of the legendary Jim and director of perennial favorite The Muppet Christmas Carol, had a lot to live up to with his holiday spin on the Charles Dickens classic. And he did all he could to avoid directing it.
Brian Henson said that he was more comfortable directing it when it was set to be a TV special for ABC. “When Disney said they really wanted me to make it for the big screen and not for ABC, I got very nervous and — I’ll be completely honest — I tried to get other people to direct it. I was uncomfortable and terrified, frankly.” Fortunately, he stepped up, and The Muppet Christmas Carol pays wonderful tribute to his late father as the first Muppet movie since his 1990 death.
Henson gives much credit to the iconic Frank Oz, saying, “Frank Oz put the most pressure on me. He said,...
Brian Henson said that he was more comfortable directing it when it was set to be a TV special for ABC. “When Disney said they really wanted me to make it for the big screen and not for ABC, I got very nervous and — I’ll be completely honest — I tried to get other people to direct it. I was uncomfortable and terrified, frankly.” Fortunately, he stepped up, and The Muppet Christmas Carol pays wonderful tribute to his late father as the first Muppet movie since his 1990 death.
Henson gives much credit to the iconic Frank Oz, saying, “Frank Oz put the most pressure on me. He said,...
- 12/3/2022
- by Mathew Plale
- JoBlo.com
Since the death of Jim Henson in 1990, there has been a scramble to figure out what to do with his signature creation, The Muppets. Some of the attempts have been quite successful, and some have fallen flat on their face. Remember that primetime ABC mockumentary series from the 2010s? Yeah, best we all forget that ever happened. For many Muppet fans today, the solution seems fairly obvious: bring back "The Muppet Show." Back to basics. It seemed like the 2011 Jason Segel-led movie "The Muppets" was going to result in that, but Disney went in a different direction. It has been over 40 years since that original show went off the air, and reconfiguring it for today could be a joy.
Back in 1990, though, that was not the clear path. The Muppets had moved to the big screen and starred in three incredibly funny, successful films. Television was in the rear view.
Back in 1990, though, that was not the clear path. The Muppets had moved to the big screen and starred in three incredibly funny, successful films. Television was in the rear view.
- 12/3/2022
- by Mike Shutt
- Slash Film
Deck the halls with boughs of cinema! Variety asked 22 celebrities to name their favorite holiday movies.
Selena Gomez’s top pick is “The Family Stone”. “I love Rachel McAdams,” she tells me. “I that was a wonderful movie.”
No surprise, but many, including Austin Butler and Paris Hilton, chose “Elf” as their go-to seasonal choice. “It’s so charming. It’s so funny,” Billy Eichner says. “Will Ferrell should have gotten an Oscar for ‘Elf.’ I truly feel that way.”
“Dead to Me” star Natalie Morales goes for “Die Hard,” as does “Glass Online: A Knives Out Mystery” director Rian Johnson. “Obviously [it’s] the ultimate Christmas movie. It’s not controversial at all to say that,” he says, laughing. “It’s not Christmas until he falls from the top of the tower, right?”
Of course, classic holiday movies were often mentioned. Steven Spielberg and James Marsden love “It’s a Wonderful Life...
Selena Gomez’s top pick is “The Family Stone”. “I love Rachel McAdams,” she tells me. “I that was a wonderful movie.”
No surprise, but many, including Austin Butler and Paris Hilton, chose “Elf” as their go-to seasonal choice. “It’s so charming. It’s so funny,” Billy Eichner says. “Will Ferrell should have gotten an Oscar for ‘Elf.’ I truly feel that way.”
“Dead to Me” star Natalie Morales goes for “Die Hard,” as does “Glass Online: A Knives Out Mystery” director Rian Johnson. “Obviously [it’s] the ultimate Christmas movie. It’s not controversial at all to say that,” he says, laughing. “It’s not Christmas until he falls from the top of the tower, right?”
Of course, classic holiday movies were often mentioned. Steven Spielberg and James Marsden love “It’s a Wonderful Life...
- 12/2/2022
- by Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
Further new releases include ‘Summering’, ‘White Noise’ and ‘The Infernal Machine’.
There are a modest number of openers over the next couple of weekends at the UK-Ireland box office in the build-up to Disney’s Avatar: The Way of Water landing on screens on December 16 and as festive fare settles in. This weekend’s widest new release is Violent Night, playing at 588 sites for Universal.
Tommy Wirkola’s alternative Christmas story sees Stranger Things star David Harbour play Kris Kringle during a particular trying Christmas Eve, with John Leguizamo as the leader of a group of dangerous mercenaries who take...
There are a modest number of openers over the next couple of weekends at the UK-Ireland box office in the build-up to Disney’s Avatar: The Way of Water landing on screens on December 16 and as festive fare settles in. This weekend’s widest new release is Violent Night, playing at 588 sites for Universal.
Tommy Wirkola’s alternative Christmas story sees Stranger Things star David Harbour play Kris Kringle during a particular trying Christmas Eve, with John Leguizamo as the leader of a group of dangerous mercenaries who take...
- 12/2/2022
- by Mona Tabbara
- ScreenDaily
In the spring of 1992, the legendary singer-songwriter Paul Williams was walking in a park in the Los Angeles sunshine, thinking about Christmas. Sixteen years after first working with the Muppets, he was about to return to their colourful world, but he was apprehensive. Years of rock ’n roll debauchery having finally caught up with him, The Muppet Christmas Carol would be the first project he’d worked on sober in forever. Three decades later, he tells Empire, he needn’t have worried. “I sat on a bench and Scrooge’s song suddenly started coming to me: ‘Bom-bom-bom-bom… When a cold wind blows it chills you…’ I think I got as far as ‘There goes Mr Humbug, there goes Mr Grim / If they gave a prize for being mean, the winner would be him’ before I paused at all. I was like, 'Hey, that’s pretty good!' I was so...
- 12/1/2022
- by Owen Williams
- Empire - Movies
It was just two years ago that those looking to curl up next to the fire with the Og Miracle on 34th Street instead got left a lump of coal, when the Christmas classic was nowhere to be seen.
Let’s avoid such Yuletide trauma this holiday season, shall we?
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Already, TVLine has gift-wrapped for you a...
Let’s avoid such Yuletide trauma this holiday season, shall we?
More from TVLineA Christmas Story Sequel's New 'Triple Dog Dare' Revealed -- Watch VideoA Christmas Story Christmas Teaser: Peter Billingsley Returns as Ralphie in HBO Max Sequel -- Watch First FootageA Christmas Story Sequel, With Original Film Stars, Gets HBO Max Release Date
Already, TVLine has gift-wrapped for you a...
- 11/21/2022
- by Team TVLine
- TVLine.com
What do you get if you take a beloved leading actor, redemptive character arc, vaguely bonkers plot, some unnecessary singing and several tonnes of fake snow? Either a classic Christmas film or a total turkey, if last week’s two releases are anything to go by.
On the one hand, the Will Ferrell and Ryan Reynolds vehicle Spirited raucously debuted on Apple TV. On the other, Lindsay Lohan’s Falling for Christmas limped weakly on to Netflix with little to announce its arrival. Perhaps, on reflection, they hoped no one would notice.
Now, before you get up in arms that I was not the target audience for the latter, let me assure you – I was exactly the target audience. Every year, from mid-November onwards, I devour all the latest low-budget “made for Netflix” festive flicks. Holiday in the Wild, where Charlotte from Sex and the City goes on a Christmas...
On the one hand, the Will Ferrell and Ryan Reynolds vehicle Spirited raucously debuted on Apple TV. On the other, Lindsay Lohan’s Falling for Christmas limped weakly on to Netflix with little to announce its arrival. Perhaps, on reflection, they hoped no one would notice.
Now, before you get up in arms that I was not the target audience for the latter, let me assure you – I was exactly the target audience. Every year, from mid-November onwards, I devour all the latest low-budget “made for Netflix” festive flicks. Holiday in the Wild, where Charlotte from Sex and the City goes on a Christmas...
- 11/19/2022
- by Helen Coffey
- The Independent - Film
Everyone has their preferred screen rendition of "A Christmas Carol," and while I am partial to the 1951 film version, my heart belongs to another re-telling. I refer, of course, to 1992's "The Muppet Christmas Carol," which is not only one of all-time best Muppet movies but also (no joke) one of the most historically accurate depictions of Victorian fashion put to film.
"The Muppet Christmas Carol" was released two years after the death of The Muppets creator Jim Henson and is dedicated to both him and legendary Muppet puppeteer Richard Hunt (who died of complications related to HIV/AIDS less than 12 months prior to the movie's arrival). Henson was in the middle of talks with then-Disney CEO Michael Eisner to sell the Muppets to the Mouse House at the time of his death. It was, by most accounts, a very stressful deal that took a toll on Henson's well-being, so...
"The Muppet Christmas Carol" was released two years after the death of The Muppets creator Jim Henson and is dedicated to both him and legendary Muppet puppeteer Richard Hunt (who died of complications related to HIV/AIDS less than 12 months prior to the movie's arrival). Henson was in the middle of talks with then-Disney CEO Michael Eisner to sell the Muppets to the Mouse House at the time of his death. It was, by most accounts, a very stressful deal that took a toll on Henson's well-being, so...
- 9/14/2022
- by Sandy Schaefer
- Slash Film
When Muppets creator Jim Henson died in 1990, the future of the Muppets franchise felt up in the air to its fans. At the time, Disney had already been in negotiations to purchase the Muppets, but Henson was on record with his refusal. Disney, still with a foot in the door, co-financed two Muppet feature films in the 1990s -- "The Muppet Christmas Carol" and "Muppet Treasure Island," both directed by Henson's son Brian -- which proved to audiences that the Muppets were capable of living on. Indeed, the two films provided a fascinating new premise for the Muppets: they would be stock players in adaptations of classic literature. Sadly, this tack did not play itself out, and after the not-very-good, straight-to-video "The Muppets' Wizard of Oz," that angle was abandoned.
Come now, Disney, "Muppet Midsummer Night's Dream," "Muppet Dracula," and "Muppet Moby-Dick" await.
"The Muppet Christmas Carol" (1992) is both one...
Come now, Disney, "Muppet Midsummer Night's Dream," "Muppet Dracula," and "Muppet Moby-Dick" await.
"The Muppet Christmas Carol" (1992) is both one...
- 9/14/2022
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
When you see a real actor performing with The Muppets, it is easy to think that would be a straightforward process. You show up and goof around with some puppets for a bit and don't have to take things too seriously. While this can work for a sketch on "The Muppet Show," it's not really the case when it comes to a real-life actor with a sizable role in a feature film. Sure, Steve Martin or Mel Brooks can come in for one scene in "The Muppet Movie" and do a schtick, but the weight of the story does not rest on them. Charles Durning as Doc Hopper and Austin Pendleton as Doc's sidekick, Max, cannot afford to be knowingly silly. They are ostensibly the antagonists of the movie, and if they do not play the film straight, there are no stakes to the picture. Therefore, there's no drama and no reason to care.
- 9/14/2022
- by Mike Shutt
- Slash Film
At this year's D23 Expo, Brian Henson announced that his directorial debut "The Muppet Christmas Carol" would finally be coming to Disney+ in its complete and uncut form later this year. After a number of years of trying, the studio has finally found a way to properly restore the song "When Love Is Gone" to the film, so now it can be viewed the way it was originally intended.
However, "original" is a relative term in this instance because this beloved holiday classic that has become a seasonal staple for three decades was originally intended to be a TV special similar to the recent "Muppets Haunted Mansion." During the panel celebrating the film's legacy — and the new life it's about to receive thanks to this release — Henson shared the origins of what is regarded as one of the most faithful adaptations of Charles Dickens' iconic tale to date.
/Film's Dalin Rowell...
However, "original" is a relative term in this instance because this beloved holiday classic that has become a seasonal staple for three decades was originally intended to be a TV special similar to the recent "Muppets Haunted Mansion." During the panel celebrating the film's legacy — and the new life it's about to receive thanks to this release — Henson shared the origins of what is regarded as one of the most faithful adaptations of Charles Dickens' iconic tale to date.
/Film's Dalin Rowell...
- 9/14/2022
- by Ben F. Silverio
- Slash Film
Muppet fans rejoice! After 30 years of waiting, "The Muppet Christmas Carol" will finally be released in its full, uncut glory.
Jeffrey Katzenberg, the Quibi mastermind who once ran Disney, infamously cut a pivotal number from the adaptation of the Charles Dickens classic that was perhaps thought lost to time. Katzenberg was not a fan of ballads, particularly in family entertainment, and thought them too boring for the kiddos. He even came close to cutting "Part of Your World" from "The Little Mermaid" before it premiered. Unfortunately, he succeeded in his pruning with "The Muppet Christmas Carol."
However, during the D23 Expo panel celebrating the film, it was announced that "When Love Is Gone" will be reinstated to the film an available for your holiday viewing pleasure on Disney+ on December 11, 2022 -- exactly 30 years after the film's initial theatrical release
The Importance Of 'When Love Is Gone'
For those who don't know,...
Jeffrey Katzenberg, the Quibi mastermind who once ran Disney, infamously cut a pivotal number from the adaptation of the Charles Dickens classic that was perhaps thought lost to time. Katzenberg was not a fan of ballads, particularly in family entertainment, and thought them too boring for the kiddos. He even came close to cutting "Part of Your World" from "The Little Mermaid" before it premiered. Unfortunately, he succeeded in his pruning with "The Muppet Christmas Carol."
However, during the D23 Expo panel celebrating the film, it was announced that "When Love Is Gone" will be reinstated to the film an available for your holiday viewing pleasure on Disney+ on December 11, 2022 -- exactly 30 years after the film's initial theatrical release
The Importance Of 'When Love Is Gone'
For those who don't know,...
- 9/10/2022
- by Mike Shutt
- Slash Film
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