The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare is now available on Premium Video on Demand and Premium Electronic Sell-Through from Lionsgate, and following its launch, we were able to sit down with star Babs Olusanmokun (Dune; Dune: Part Two; The Book of Clarence) to talk about his pivotal role in the Guy Ritchie-directed actioner.
In the film, Olusanmokun plays Richard Heron, one of the members of the team and works closely with Eiza González ("Marjorie Stewart") to take down the Nazis by land while the rest of the team head to the sea. He tells me about the importance of telling this story, his experience working with Guy Ritchie again, and a whole lot more.
Additionally, the film will also be available on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD on June 25!
Watch our full video interview with Babs Olusanmokun below and/or keep scrolling to read the transcript. Plus, please remember...
In the film, Olusanmokun plays Richard Heron, one of the members of the team and works closely with Eiza González ("Marjorie Stewart") to take down the Nazis by land while the rest of the team head to the sea. He tells me about the importance of telling this story, his experience working with Guy Ritchie again, and a whole lot more.
Additionally, the film will also be available on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD on June 25!
Watch our full video interview with Babs Olusanmokun below and/or keep scrolling to read the transcript. Plus, please remember...
- 5/22/2024
- ComicBookMovie.com
Sony Pictures Entertainment’s full fiscal-year 2023 operating income fell to $808 million from $894 million in dollar terms, with sales creeping up slightly to $10.32 billion from $10.14 billion.
Spe comprises motion pictures, television productions and media networks, and the fiscal-year 2023 performance of those three segments was impacted by the dual Hollywood strikes.
Sony’s fiscal year ended March 31, 2024, and in that period, Motion Pictures unit revenue amounted to $3.74 billion, up from $3.44 billion from a year ago. Spe released 17 films during the period including Insidious: The Red Door, Love Again, The Pope’s Exorcist, The Machine, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, No Hard Feelings, Gran Turismo, The Equalizer 3, Thanksgiving, Dumb Money, Napoleon, Anyone But You and Madame Web.
In Sony’s fiscal fourth quarter, the film division saw operating income of $208 million, up from the $119 million in the year-ago quarter. In the latest quarter, the film division benefitted from the performance of the Sydney Sweeney...
Spe comprises motion pictures, television productions and media networks, and the fiscal-year 2023 performance of those three segments was impacted by the dual Hollywood strikes.
Sony’s fiscal year ended March 31, 2024, and in that period, Motion Pictures unit revenue amounted to $3.74 billion, up from $3.44 billion from a year ago. Spe released 17 films during the period including Insidious: The Red Door, Love Again, The Pope’s Exorcist, The Machine, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, No Hard Feelings, Gran Turismo, The Equalizer 3, Thanksgiving, Dumb Money, Napoleon, Anyone But You and Madame Web.
In Sony’s fiscal fourth quarter, the film division saw operating income of $208 million, up from the $119 million in the year-ago quarter. In the latest quarter, the film division benefitted from the performance of the Sydney Sweeney...
- 5/14/2024
- by Abid Rahman
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Margot Robbie and Rosamund Pike are among the nominees for the National Film Awards.The stars of 'Barbie' and 'Saltburn' respectively will compete against talent including Patricia Hodge ('Arthur's Whiskey'), Jo Hartley ('Swede Caroline'), Eiza Gonzalez ('The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare') and Emma Stone ('Poor Things)' in a star-studded Best Actress category.This year's ceremony is set to take place on July 3 at the Porchester Hall in London and marks the 10th anniversary of the prestigious awards. It will feature a lineup of nominees from around the globe consisting of seasoned acting veterans and emerging young talents.The Best Actor category is equally competitive with stars including Barry Keoghan ('Saltburn), Kevin Hart ('Lift') and Ewan McGregor ('Bleeding Love') competing for the prize with Kane Robinson ('The Kitchen') and Lakeith Stanfield ('Book of Clarence').Meanwhile,...
- 4/30/2024
- by Joe Graber
- Bang Showbiz
The box office has been firmly in recovery mode for several years now. The pandemic, it's no secret, completely upended the business, and movie theaters have been trying to figure out what the future looks like ever since. Hollywood, for its part, has been doing the same, attempting to balance its streaming-focused operations with the need to release movies in theaters. 2024 has brought forth yet another challenge as the Screen Actors Guild and Writers Guild of America strikes last year resulted in a disappointingly bare release calendar. Dire though it has seemed at times, there have been many bright spots in the darkness.
Yes, we've had more than a few box office flops this year, ranging from superhero films like "Madame Web" to total whiffs like "The Book of Clarence." Those flops have helped create a rough situation. However, we've also had quite a few hits. Not just movies that...
Yes, we've had more than a few box office flops this year, ranging from superhero films like "Madame Web" to total whiffs like "The Book of Clarence." Those flops have helped create a rough situation. However, we've also had quite a few hits. Not just movies that...
- 4/26/2024
- by Ryan Scott
- Slash Film
Lakeith Stanfield has entered into negotiations to star in and produce a feature adaptation of the hit neo-noir video game ‘El Paso, Elsewhere’.
The story will follow James Savage (Stanfield), who, while recovering from a toxic relationship, confronts both his inner demons and enigmatic ex-girlfriend, Janet, before she executes a world-ending ritual. James navigates her reality-bending universe of ethereal monsters while facing the truth of his own addictions and skewed sense of self-worth, learning that the only route to love is through healing.
Also in news – Steve Buscemi joins season 2 of ‘Wednesday’
The production of an upcoming project will be a collaborative effort between Lorenzo di Bonaventura’s Di Bonaventura Pictures, known for their work on blockbuster franchises such as Transformers and G.I. Joe, and Colin Stark. Both parties will be actively involved in the production process.
Stanfield’s most recently appeared in ‘The Book of Clarence’ and is known...
The story will follow James Savage (Stanfield), who, while recovering from a toxic relationship, confronts both his inner demons and enigmatic ex-girlfriend, Janet, before she executes a world-ending ritual. James navigates her reality-bending universe of ethereal monsters while facing the truth of his own addictions and skewed sense of self-worth, learning that the only route to love is through healing.
Also in news – Steve Buscemi joins season 2 of ‘Wednesday’
The production of an upcoming project will be a collaborative effort between Lorenzo di Bonaventura’s Di Bonaventura Pictures, known for their work on blockbuster franchises such as Transformers and G.I. Joe, and Colin Stark. Both parties will be actively involved in the production process.
Stanfield’s most recently appeared in ‘The Book of Clarence’ and is known...
- 4/23/2024
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
An indie action game akin to Max Payne, El Paso, Elsewhere is to become a film, with Lakeith Stanfield in talks to star.
Developed by indie studio Strange Scaffold – headed up by designer Xalavier Nelson Jr – third-person action videogame El Paso, Elsewhere was released to glowing reviews in 2023. Less than a year later, the Max Payne-esque shooter is to be adapted into a movie, it’s been announced.
Producer Lorenzo Di Bonaventura has picked up the rights to the game though his company – the logically-named Di Bonaventura Pictures – meaning it’ll share a figurative stable with such properties as Transformers and GI Joe.
According to Variety, Lakeith Stanfield – whose latest film, the irreverent comedy The Book Of Clarence, is in UK cinemas now – is to star in the adaptation.
El Paso, Elsewhere is about a vampire hunter named James Savage, whose ex-girlfriend – named Draculae – is rather awkwardly a vampire herself.
Developed by indie studio Strange Scaffold – headed up by designer Xalavier Nelson Jr – third-person action videogame El Paso, Elsewhere was released to glowing reviews in 2023. Less than a year later, the Max Payne-esque shooter is to be adapted into a movie, it’s been announced.
Producer Lorenzo Di Bonaventura has picked up the rights to the game though his company – the logically-named Di Bonaventura Pictures – meaning it’ll share a figurative stable with such properties as Transformers and GI Joe.
According to Variety, Lakeith Stanfield – whose latest film, the irreverent comedy The Book Of Clarence, is in UK cinemas now – is to star in the adaptation.
El Paso, Elsewhere is about a vampire hunter named James Savage, whose ex-girlfriend – named Draculae – is rather awkwardly a vampire herself.
- 4/23/2024
- by Ryan Lambie
- Film Stories
He's been back on our screens recently, reuniting with writer/director Jeymes Samuel for Biblical comedy drama The Book Of Clarence, but Lakeith Stanfield has his eye on something quite different. He's now joining forces with Transformers producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura to develop and potentially star in a film adaptation of neo-noir vampire video game El Paso, Elsewhere.
The game, developed and published by Strange Scaffold in September last year, has become a success, and takes its inspiration from the Max Payne games, with retro graphics. It follows a vampire hunter tasked with stopping his ex-girlfriend's (a vampire! Sound the irony klaxon!) evil schemes.
You want an official logline for the movie version? Step right up: "Recovering from a toxic relationship, James Savage (Stanfield) confronts both his inner demons and enigmatic ex-girlfriend, Janet, before she executes a world-ending ritual. James navigates her reality-bending universe of ethereal monsters while facing the...
The game, developed and published by Strange Scaffold in September last year, has become a success, and takes its inspiration from the Max Payne games, with retro graphics. It follows a vampire hunter tasked with stopping his ex-girlfriend's (a vampire! Sound the irony klaxon!) evil schemes.
You want an official logline for the movie version? Step right up: "Recovering from a toxic relationship, James Savage (Stanfield) confronts both his inner demons and enigmatic ex-girlfriend, Janet, before she executes a world-ending ritual. James navigates her reality-bending universe of ethereal monsters while facing the...
- 4/22/2024
- by James White
- Empire - Movies
Lakeith Stanfield, whose credits include Get Out, The Book of Clarence, Sorry to Bother You, Atlanta, The Harder They Fall, and Haunted Mansion, has signed on to star in the video game adaptation El Paso, Elsewhere, The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed. Stanfield will also be producing the film alongside Lorenzo di Bonaventura (who is best known for being behind the Transformers franchise) and Colin Stark.
Developed and published by Strange Scaffold, El Paso, Elsewhere is a third-person shooter video game that follows a vampire hunter named James Savage who is on the hunt for his ex-girlfriend, named Janet (Aka Draculae), who seeks to bring about the end of the world.
The producers of the film adaptation provided the following logline: Recovering from a toxic relationship, James Savage (Stanfield) confronts both his inner demons and enigmatic ex-girlfriend, Janet, before she executes a world-ending ritual. James navigates her reality-bending universe of ethereal...
Developed and published by Strange Scaffold, El Paso, Elsewhere is a third-person shooter video game that follows a vampire hunter named James Savage who is on the hunt for his ex-girlfriend, named Janet (Aka Draculae), who seeks to bring about the end of the world.
The producers of the film adaptation provided the following logline: Recovering from a toxic relationship, James Savage (Stanfield) confronts both his inner demons and enigmatic ex-girlfriend, Janet, before she executes a world-ending ritual. James navigates her reality-bending universe of ethereal...
- 4/22/2024
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
Lakeith Stanfield, who most recently starred in The Book of Clarence for Sony, is teaming up with veteran producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura for El Paso, Elsewhere, an adaptation of the neo-noir vampire video game from publisher Strange Scaffold.
Stanfield is in talks to star in the feature and will also produce along with di Bonaventura, who is known for his action movies such as the Transformers franchise. Colin Stark will also produce
There is no writer or director, as the project is still being packaged in the hopes of finding a studio home. The package is seen as buzzy, as it is a video game adaptation, a bustling genre thanks to titles such as The Last of Us, the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise, and the most recent hit, Fallout.
The game centers on a vampire hunter named James Savage who is on the hunt for his ex-girlfriend, named Janet (Aka...
Stanfield is in talks to star in the feature and will also produce along with di Bonaventura, who is known for his action movies such as the Transformers franchise. Colin Stark will also produce
There is no writer or director, as the project is still being packaged in the hopes of finding a studio home. The package is seen as buzzy, as it is a video game adaptation, a bustling genre thanks to titles such as The Last of Us, the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise, and the most recent hit, Fallout.
The game centers on a vampire hunter named James Savage who is on the hunt for his ex-girlfriend, named Janet (Aka...
- 4/22/2024
- by Borys Kit
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Academy Award nominee Lakeith Stanfield (The Book of Clarence) is in talks to star in and produce a feature adaptation of the hit neo-noir video game El Paso, Elsewhere, Deadline has learned.
Lorenzo di Bonaventura’s Di Bonaventura Pictures and Colin Stark will also produce.
The film will center on James Savage (Stanfield), who while recovering from a toxic relationship, confronts both his inner demons and enigmatic ex-girlfriend, Janet, before she executes a world-ending ritual. James navigates her reality-bending universe of ethereal monsters while facing the truth of his own addictions and skewed sense of self-worth, learning that the only route to love is through healing.
Released in September 2023, the game was developed by Strange Scaffold, the development label of BAFTA nominee Xalavier Nelson Jr.
Known for roles in films like Judas and the Black Messiah, The Book of Clarence, Knives Out and Selma, Stanfield has...
Lorenzo di Bonaventura’s Di Bonaventura Pictures and Colin Stark will also produce.
The film will center on James Savage (Stanfield), who while recovering from a toxic relationship, confronts both his inner demons and enigmatic ex-girlfriend, Janet, before she executes a world-ending ritual. James navigates her reality-bending universe of ethereal monsters while facing the truth of his own addictions and skewed sense of self-worth, learning that the only route to love is through healing.
Released in September 2023, the game was developed by Strange Scaffold, the development label of BAFTA nominee Xalavier Nelson Jr.
Known for roles in films like Judas and the Black Messiah, The Book of Clarence, Knives Out and Selma, Stanfield has...
- 4/22/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
RankFilm (distributor)Three-day gross (Apr 19-21)Total gross to dateWeek 1. Back To Black (Studiocanal) £1.9m £6.4m 2 2. Civil War (Entertainment Film Distributors) £1.1m £3.8m 3 3. Kung Fu Panda 4 (Universal) £898,807 £18.6m 4 4. Godzilla X Kong: The New Empire (Warner Bros) £649,284 £12.9m 4 5. Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (Sony) £594,971 £594,971 1
Gbp to Usd conversion rate: 1.23
Amy Winehouse biopic Back To Black topped the UK-Ireland box office chart for a second weekend; as horror Abigail started fifth on a weekend dominated by holdover titles.
Back To Black added £1.9m – a decent hold from its opening, falling just 30.1%. This is a better second-weekend hold than recent music biopics, including this...
Gbp to Usd conversion rate: 1.23
Amy Winehouse biopic Back To Black topped the UK-Ireland box office chart for a second weekend; as horror Abigail started fifth on a weekend dominated by holdover titles.
Back To Black added £1.9m – a decent hold from its opening, falling just 30.1%. This is a better second-weekend hold than recent music biopics, including this...
- 4/22/2024
- ScreenDaily
Phew! After last week's single-guest situation, we're back to our bumper-sized best on this week's Empire Podcast. One of our favourite interviewees, Dan Stevens, returns to the pod after a brief hiatus, to tell Chris Hewitt all about his new film, Abigail, and his all-timer of a character intro in Godzilla X Kong: The New Empire. Warning: Chris and Dan also discuss the origin of Dan's true character name in Abigail, which some might consider a mild spoiler. So be careful! Chris also has a lovely chat this week with Ed Skrein and Fra Fee, the villainous duo from Zack Snyder's Rebel Moon Part 2: The Scargiver. The trio talk about many things — accents, acting, Northern Ireland — but not, repeat, not football. And finally, the two Alex Gs — Godfrey and Garland — get together for a deep dive into Civil War, in an extended excerpt from our forthcoming spoiler special interview.
- 4/19/2024
- by Chris Hewitt
- Empire - Movies
Universal’s vampire horror Abigail is aiming to take a bite out of the box office this weekend, as it opens in 545 sites in the UK and Ireland for Universal – the widest new opener of the weekend.
The film follows a kidnapping that goes outrageously awry. It shot in Ireland and is directed by US filmmakers Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett – the team behind Scream and Scream VI. The cast includes Matilda The Musical’s Alisha Weir in the titular role, alongside Melissa Barrera and Dan Stevens. Production companies are Project X Entertainment, Vinson Films and Radio Silence.
It’s...
The film follows a kidnapping that goes outrageously awry. It shot in Ireland and is directed by US filmmakers Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett – the team behind Scream and Scream VI. The cast includes Matilda The Musical’s Alisha Weir in the titular role, alongside Melissa Barrera and Dan Stevens. Production companies are Project X Entertainment, Vinson Films and Radio Silence.
It’s...
- 4/19/2024
- ScreenDaily
The Book Of Clarence postulates apostle traits for an invented figure whose place among the apocrypha opens with a chariot race. That's a competition with a heavy wager to pay off a debt to a criminal figure, and over-leveraged borrowing is everywhere in the film.
The presence of a parallel Messiah can't but be compared to Life Of Brian. This was filmed in Matera, the Unesco heritage Italian village carved into the cliffs of a steep valley which was also where The Passion Of The Christ was shot. If those seem uncomfortable tonal companions then know that The Book Of Clarence is full of similar variety, with similarly mixed results.
Lakeith Stanfield's charisma does a lot of the lifting, from stolen cloaks to various spirits. Omar Sy as the slave gladiator Barabbas first appears wearing a helmet that seems to be based on the mask worn by rapper Mf Doom,...
The presence of a parallel Messiah can't but be compared to Life Of Brian. This was filmed in Matera, the Unesco heritage Italian village carved into the cliffs of a steep valley which was also where The Passion Of The Christ was shot. If those seem uncomfortable tonal companions then know that The Book Of Clarence is full of similar variety, with similarly mixed results.
Lakeith Stanfield's charisma does a lot of the lifting, from stolen cloaks to various spirits. Omar Sy as the slave gladiator Barabbas first appears wearing a helmet that seems to be based on the mask worn by rapper Mf Doom,...
- 4/18/2024
- by Andrew Robertson
- eyeforfilm.co.uk
The mark of a successful actor goes beyond top billing, box office draw, trophies and name-dropping headlines. Perhaps the purest indicator of an actor’s success is when they show up on screen and the audience immediately trusts that they’re going to add something genuinely interesting to the story being told. Well, Babs Olusanmokun has belonged to this category of actor for quite some time now, and Guy Ritchie’s latest film, The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare, makes excellent use of the Nigerian-American actor, including his innately enigmatic presence and the mellifluous rasp of his voice.
Olusanmokun and Ritchie previously worked together on the Jason Statham-led Wrath of Man (2021), and they nearly worked together again in Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre (2023). Instead, Ungentlemanly Warfare became their second go-round, and Olusanmokun received a major promotion, jumping from 26th billing on Wrath of Man to fifth billing. His undercover spy character,...
Olusanmokun and Ritchie previously worked together on the Jason Statham-led Wrath of Man (2021), and they nearly worked together again in Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre (2023). Instead, Ungentlemanly Warfare became their second go-round, and Olusanmokun received a major promotion, jumping from 26th billing on Wrath of Man to fifth billing. His undercover spy character,...
- 4/16/2024
- by Brian Davids
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Studiocanal’s Amy Winehouse biopic “Back to Black” debuted atop the U.K and Ireland box office with £2.77 million ($3.4 million), according to numbers from Comscore.
It was neck-and-neck for the second spot. Entertainment Film Distributors’ “Civil War,” directed by Alex Garland and starring Kirsten Dunst, debuted with £1.82 million, including previews. In its third weekend, Universal’s “Kung Fu Panda 4” collected £1.75 million over the three-day weekend for a running total of £17.29 million.
In fourth place, in its third weekend, Warner Bros.’ “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” took in £1.18 million for a total of £11.89 million. Rounding off the top five, in its fourth weekend, Sony’s “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” earned £787,000 for a total of £14.06 million.
There were two debuts in the top 10, both from India. Rft Films’ Malayalam-language “Aavesham,” starring Fahadh Faasil, opened in ninth place with £207,300, while Yash Raj Films’ Bollywood film “Bade Miyan Chote Miyan,” with Akshay Kumar,...
It was neck-and-neck for the second spot. Entertainment Film Distributors’ “Civil War,” directed by Alex Garland and starring Kirsten Dunst, debuted with £1.82 million, including previews. In its third weekend, Universal’s “Kung Fu Panda 4” collected £1.75 million over the three-day weekend for a running total of £17.29 million.
In fourth place, in its third weekend, Warner Bros.’ “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” took in £1.18 million for a total of £11.89 million. Rounding off the top five, in its fourth weekend, Sony’s “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” earned £787,000 for a total of £14.06 million.
There were two debuts in the top 10, both from India. Rft Films’ Malayalam-language “Aavesham,” starring Fahadh Faasil, opened in ninth place with £207,300, while Yash Raj Films’ Bollywood film “Bade Miyan Chote Miyan,” with Akshay Kumar,...
- 4/16/2024
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.
What's the worst Stanley Kubrick movie? If you could ask Kubrick himself, he'd likely tell you the answer is "Fear and Desire," his debut feature. And by most accounts, "Fear and Desire" is definitely near the bottom of the list when it comes to Kubrick films. It's a clunky, clumsy movie that Kubrick himself called "a presumptuous failure." He also stated: "It's not a film I remember with any pride, except for the fact it was finished."
Kubrick disliked the film so much that he would've been happy if no one actually watched it. By some accounts, the filmmaker even tried to destroy the film. Eventually, its copyright lapsed and it fell into the public domain for all to see — provided anyone could find a print. Which they couldn't — until 1994. That year, a version of the film was found and...
What's the worst Stanley Kubrick movie? If you could ask Kubrick himself, he'd likely tell you the answer is "Fear and Desire," his debut feature. And by most accounts, "Fear and Desire" is definitely near the bottom of the list when it comes to Kubrick films. It's a clunky, clumsy movie that Kubrick himself called "a presumptuous failure." He also stated: "It's not a film I remember with any pride, except for the fact it was finished."
Kubrick disliked the film so much that he would've been happy if no one actually watched it. By some accounts, the filmmaker even tried to destroy the film. Eventually, its copyright lapsed and it fell into the public domain for all to see — provided anyone could find a print. Which they couldn't — until 1994. That year, a version of the film was found and...
- 4/11/2024
- by Chris Evangelista
- Slash Film
The Marvel Cinematic Universe is about to welcome the Fantastic Four. The group, led by The Last of Us fame Pedro Pascal, will pit an older group of superheroes against Silver Surfer and Galactus, two well-known villains. After keeping us guessing for months, Marvel has finally revealed that Julia Garner—best known for starring in the Netflix series Ozark—is being cast as Silver Surfer.
Doug Jones as the Silver Surfer in a still from Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer
It should be noted, however, that this version will be Shalla-Bal, Silver Surfer’s romantic interest in Marvel Comics. But it seems not everyone is happy with the latest Marvel update on the upcoming flick.
Lakeith Stanfield, best known for his dynamic acting range in films such as Sorry to Bother You and Judas and the Black Messiah, expressed disappointment when Garner was announced as the new Silver Surfer.
Doug Jones as the Silver Surfer in a still from Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer
It should be noted, however, that this version will be Shalla-Bal, Silver Surfer’s romantic interest in Marvel Comics. But it seems not everyone is happy with the latest Marvel update on the upcoming flick.
Lakeith Stanfield, best known for his dynamic acting range in films such as Sorry to Bother You and Judas and the Black Messiah, expressed disappointment when Garner was announced as the new Silver Surfer.
- 4/4/2024
- by Siddhika Prajapati
- FandomWire
The season of the very first sign of the zodiac is here, and that’s exactly why being a leader comes so easy for Aries folks.
And that’s no joke, Aries really don’t know what else to be but a boss, CEO or innovator, because they’d rather play by their own rules. They march to the beat of their own drum and rarely ever need anyone to play backup instrumentals. Their charm, playful personality and great sense of humor make up for their impulsiveness and sometimes hot-temper, and there’s absolutely no other sign who will keep it all the way real with you like an Aries does, even if it’s something you don’t want to hear. They tell it like it is, as dishonesty goes against their entire m.o.
As ambitious as they are — known for being some of the greatest to ever...
And that’s no joke, Aries really don’t know what else to be but a boss, CEO or innovator, because they’d rather play by their own rules. They march to the beat of their own drum and rarely ever need anyone to play backup instrumentals. Their charm, playful personality and great sense of humor make up for their impulsiveness and sometimes hot-temper, and there’s absolutely no other sign who will keep it all the way real with you like an Aries does, even if it’s something you don’t want to hear. They tell it like it is, as dishonesty goes against their entire m.o.
As ambitious as they are — known for being some of the greatest to ever...
- 3/30/2024
- by Raquel 'Rocky' Harris
- The Wrap
Teyana Taylor had a breakout year as an actress last year, starring in “The Book of Clarence,” “White Men Can’t Jump,” and most notably her Film Independent Spirit Award-nominated performance in the brilliant “A Thousand and One.” But the R&b star is now making the leap to feature film director.
Taylor is set to make her feature directorial debut on a film called “Get Lite” that is now in development at Paramount Pictures, an individual with knowledge of the project told IndieWire. She’s cast Storm Reid in the lead role.
Reid is also producing the film through her production banner A Seed & Wings Productions, and she’ll be producing alongside “Black-ish” creator Kenya Barris via his Khalabo Ink Society. Taylor is executive producing.
“Get Lite” is the story of a studious New York City teenager who has his world upended when he falls for a charismatic beatmaker...
Taylor is set to make her feature directorial debut on a film called “Get Lite” that is now in development at Paramount Pictures, an individual with knowledge of the project told IndieWire. She’s cast Storm Reid in the lead role.
Reid is also producing the film through her production banner A Seed & Wings Productions, and she’ll be producing alongside “Black-ish” creator Kenya Barris via his Khalabo Ink Society. Taylor is executive producing.
“Get Lite” is the story of a studious New York City teenager who has his world upended when he falls for a charismatic beatmaker...
- 3/18/2024
- by Brian Welk
- Indiewire
“Lupin” star Omar Sy, “Fast X” director Louis Leterrier and “Gangs of London” producer Thomas Benski have launched Carrousel Studios, a European independent production company with offices in Paris, London, Los Angeles and Senegal.
The banner will finance and produce film and TV projects, with an emphasis on elevated action, thrillers, sci-fi, fantasy and comedy. The company will look to tap into tax credits, European incentives and brands to finance content. CAA Media Finance architected the financing for the venture.
Sy, Leterrier and Benski, who have worked together on several series and films, said the name of the company, Carrousel, reflects its inclusive DNA. “A carrousel’s sole purpose is to entertain, no matter where the riders come from, no matter their age or background,” explained the trio in a joint statement. “Additionally, the word carrousel is understood around the globe and associated with magical moments. Our Carrousel will have that same feel,...
The banner will finance and produce film and TV projects, with an emphasis on elevated action, thrillers, sci-fi, fantasy and comedy. The company will look to tap into tax credits, European incentives and brands to finance content. CAA Media Finance architected the financing for the venture.
Sy, Leterrier and Benski, who have worked together on several series and films, said the name of the company, Carrousel, reflects its inclusive DNA. “A carrousel’s sole purpose is to entertain, no matter where the riders come from, no matter their age or background,” explained the trio in a joint statement. “Additionally, the word carrousel is understood around the globe and associated with magical moments. Our Carrousel will have that same feel,...
- 3/15/2024
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
French star Omar Sy (Lupin, The Intouchables) is joining forces with Fast X and Transporter director Louis Leterrier and producer Thomas Benski (American Honey, Gangs of London) to launch Carrousel Studios, a new European independent studio.
Billed as an “artists-first” studio, Carrousel aims to focus on elevated genre, in the film and TV, to “lean into elevated action, thrillers, sci-fi, fantasy and comedy projects,” according to a statement, by taking advantage of “myriad tax credits, subsidies, cost of production, incredible talent (in front and behind the camera) as well as other European incentives.”
All three men are represented by CAA and CAA Media Finance set up the financing for the venture. Carrousel Studios will have offices in Paris, London, Los Angeles and Senegal.
The company name is meant to evoke a spirit of entertainment. “By definition, a carrousel’s sole purpose is to entertain, no matter where the riders come from,...
Billed as an “artists-first” studio, Carrousel aims to focus on elevated genre, in the film and TV, to “lean into elevated action, thrillers, sci-fi, fantasy and comedy projects,” according to a statement, by taking advantage of “myriad tax credits, subsidies, cost of production, incredible talent (in front and behind the camera) as well as other European incentives.”
All three men are represented by CAA and CAA Media Finance set up the financing for the venture. Carrousel Studios will have offices in Paris, London, Los Angeles and Senegal.
The company name is meant to evoke a spirit of entertainment. “By definition, a carrousel’s sole purpose is to entertain, no matter where the riders come from,...
- 3/15/2024
- by Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Festivals And Markets
The 2024 BFI London Film Festival has announced its dates, with the biggest film festival in the U.K. set to be held Oct. 9-20. The late-in-the-year slot has traditionally given the event the opportunity to program some of the most notable films from the summer festivals while also showcasing some of the biggest titles from the U.K. In 2023, the Lff opened with the European premiere of “Saltburn,” and included screenings of “Maestro,” “The Holdovers,” “Poor Things” and “Priscilla,” but also featured the world premieres of “Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget,” and “The Book of Clarence.”
Submissions of the U.K. and Irish shorts and features are still open for the 2024 festival. The final date for entry is May 24.
***
Busan’s Asian Contents and Film Market (Acfm) has appointed Ellen Y. D. Kim as director. Her four-year term commences March 8. She previously held several positions within...
The 2024 BFI London Film Festival has announced its dates, with the biggest film festival in the U.K. set to be held Oct. 9-20. The late-in-the-year slot has traditionally given the event the opportunity to program some of the most notable films from the summer festivals while also showcasing some of the biggest titles from the U.K. In 2023, the Lff opened with the European premiere of “Saltburn,” and included screenings of “Maestro,” “The Holdovers,” “Poor Things” and “Priscilla,” but also featured the world premieres of “Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget,” and “The Book of Clarence.”
Submissions of the U.K. and Irish shorts and features are still open for the 2024 festival. The final date for entry is May 24.
***
Busan’s Asian Contents and Film Market (Acfm) has appointed Ellen Y. D. Kim as director. Her four-year term commences March 8. She previously held several positions within...
- 3/4/2024
- by Alex Ritman
- Variety Film + TV
Netflix has debuted the first official trailer for Thea Sharrock’s ‘The Beautiful Game,’ featuring Bill Nighy.
Mal is the manager of England’s homeless football team, taking his players to Rome with the hope of being crowned champions of the Homeless World Cup, a global street soccer tournament. At the last minute, he decides to bring with them a talented striker Vinny, who could give them a real chance at winning, but only if he’s ready to let go of his past and become part of the team.
Made with the support of the Homeless World Cup, The Beautiful Game is a film of second chances – where homeless teams from around the world find that all roads lead to Rome, and everything’s to play for.
Directed by Thea Sharrock, the cast includes Bill Nighy, Micheal Ward, Susan Wokoma, Callum Scott Howells, Kit Young, Sheyi Cole, Tom Vaughan-Lawlor,...
Mal is the manager of England’s homeless football team, taking his players to Rome with the hope of being crowned champions of the Homeless World Cup, a global street soccer tournament. At the last minute, he decides to bring with them a talented striker Vinny, who could give them a real chance at winning, but only if he’s ready to let go of his past and become part of the team.
Made with the support of the Homeless World Cup, The Beautiful Game is a film of second chances – where homeless teams from around the world find that all roads lead to Rome, and everything’s to play for.
Directed by Thea Sharrock, the cast includes Bill Nighy, Micheal Ward, Susan Wokoma, Callum Scott Howells, Kit Young, Sheyi Cole, Tom Vaughan-Lawlor,...
- 2/29/2024
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Michael Ward and Bill Nighy charm in the first look at Thea Sharrock’s underdog sports movie. Check out the The Beautiful Game trailer below.
It’s a drizzly day in the Film Stories office this afternoon, so what better way to blow away the late-February blues than a look at some kind of heartwarming British underdog story?
Thankfully, Netflix and director Thea Sharrock have our backs. They’ve released the first trailer for the streamer’s upcoming film based on the thoroughly excellent-sounding Homeless World Cup – an international competition to help change perceptions and attitudes towards people who are experiencing homelessness. We’re sold already.
Check out the first The Beautiful Game trailer below:
We’re feeling pretty uplifted already. Here’s the film’s official synopsis:
“Mal is the manager of England’s homeless football team, taking his players to Rome with the hope of being crowned champions of the Homeless World Cup,...
It’s a drizzly day in the Film Stories office this afternoon, so what better way to blow away the late-February blues than a look at some kind of heartwarming British underdog story?
Thankfully, Netflix and director Thea Sharrock have our backs. They’ve released the first trailer for the streamer’s upcoming film based on the thoroughly excellent-sounding Homeless World Cup – an international competition to help change perceptions and attitudes towards people who are experiencing homelessness. We’re sold already.
Check out the first The Beautiful Game trailer below:
We’re feeling pretty uplifted already. Here’s the film’s official synopsis:
“Mal is the manager of England’s homeless football team, taking his players to Rome with the hope of being crowned champions of the Homeless World Cup,...
- 2/29/2024
- by James Harvey
- Film Stories
Netflix brings us the trailer for a sports film with an interesting twist. The Beautiful Game is based on a true story of a soccer event, The Homeless World Cup. The film stars Bill Nighy, Micheal Ward, Susan Wokoma, Callum Scott Howells, Kit Young, Sheyi Cole, Tom Vaughan-Lawlor, Robin Nazari, Aoi Okuyama, Cristina Rodlo, Tadashi Watanabe, Kazuhiro Muroyama and Valeria Golino.
The official synopsis from Netflix reads,
“Mal is the manager of England’s homeless football team, taking his players to Rome with the hope of being crowned champions of the Homeless World Cup, a global street soccer tournament. At the last minute he decides to bring with them a talented striker Vinny, who could give them a real chance at winning, but only if he’s ready to let go of his past and become part of the team. Made with the support of the Homeless World Cup, The Beautiful Game...
The official synopsis from Netflix reads,
“Mal is the manager of England’s homeless football team, taking his players to Rome with the hope of being crowned champions of the Homeless World Cup, a global street soccer tournament. At the last minute he decides to bring with them a talented striker Vinny, who could give them a real chance at winning, but only if he’s ready to let go of his past and become part of the team. Made with the support of the Homeless World Cup, The Beautiful Game...
- 2/29/2024
- by EJ Tangonan
- JoBlo.com
Nicholas Pinnock has joined the cast of the Peacock limited series “Long Bright River,” Variety has learned.
Pinnock will star alongside previously announced series lead Amanda Seyfried in the show, which is based on the Liz Moore novel of the same name.
The series is described as a suspense thriller that “tells the story of Mickey (Seyfried), a police officer who patrols a Philadelphia neighborhood hard-hit by the opioid crisis. When a series of murders begins in the neighborhood, Mickey realizes that her personal history might be related to the case.”
Pinnock will star as Truman Dawes.
Pinnock was most recently seen in the feature “The Book of Clarence” in the role of Jesus Christ opposite Lakeith Stanfield. He is also known for his roles in TV series such as “For Life,” “Top Boy,” “Django,” and “Counterpart.”
He is repped by Silver Lining Entertainment, Iag, Independent Talent Group in the UK,...
Pinnock will star alongside previously announced series lead Amanda Seyfried in the show, which is based on the Liz Moore novel of the same name.
The series is described as a suspense thriller that “tells the story of Mickey (Seyfried), a police officer who patrols a Philadelphia neighborhood hard-hit by the opioid crisis. When a series of murders begins in the neighborhood, Mickey realizes that her personal history might be related to the case.”
Pinnock will star as Truman Dawes.
Pinnock was most recently seen in the feature “The Book of Clarence” in the role of Jesus Christ opposite Lakeith Stanfield. He is also known for his roles in TV series such as “For Life,” “Top Boy,” “Django,” and “Counterpart.”
He is repped by Silver Lining Entertainment, Iag, Independent Talent Group in the UK,...
- 2/15/2024
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Nicholas Pinnock (The Book of Clarence) has been set for the male lead in Peacock’s limited series suspense thriller Long Bright River, Deadline has learned. He’s set to star opposite Amanda Seyfried, who will also serve as executive producer.
An adaptation of Liz Moore’s New York Times bestselling novel of the same name, Long Bright River tells the story of Mickey (Seyfried), a police officer who patrols a Philadelphia neighborhood hard-hit by the opioid crisis. When a series of murders begins in the neighborhood, Mickey realizes that her personal history might be related to the case. While Pinnock plays Truman Dawes, further character details are under wraps. The series hails from Sony Pictures Television and UCP, a division of Universal Studio Group,
Nikki Toscano and Liz Moore will write and executive produce, with Toscano serving as showrunner. Neal H. Moritz, Pavun Shetty and Amanda Lewis...
An adaptation of Liz Moore’s New York Times bestselling novel of the same name, Long Bright River tells the story of Mickey (Seyfried), a police officer who patrols a Philadelphia neighborhood hard-hit by the opioid crisis. When a series of murders begins in the neighborhood, Mickey realizes that her personal history might be related to the case. While Pinnock plays Truman Dawes, further character details are under wraps. The series hails from Sony Pictures Television and UCP, a division of Universal Studio Group,
Nikki Toscano and Liz Moore will write and executive produce, with Toscano serving as showrunner. Neal H. Moritz, Pavun Shetty and Amanda Lewis...
- 2/15/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
The cast of “Hard Truths,” the 23rd film from legendary British director Mike Leigh, has been unveiled, along with a first look image.
The feature, which like most Leigh projects has remained under a veil of secrecy, has reunited the filmmaker with Marianne Jean-Baptiste, who received an Oscar nomination for his 1996 drama “Secrets & Lies.” Michele Austin, another frequent Leigh collaborator, also stars.
“Hard Truths” was shot in London in 2023 and, following his historical epics “Mr. Turner” and “Peterloo,” sees Leigh return to the contemporary world. However, plot details are still scarce, the film’s only description being that it’s a “tough but compassionate intimate study of family life”.
Leigh was joined behind the camera by his regular crew members, including producer Georgina Lowe, cinematographer Dick Pope, costume designer Jacqueline Durran (who recently earned her 9th Oscar nomination for her work on “Barbie”), production designer Suzie Davis, composer Gary Yershon...
The feature, which like most Leigh projects has remained under a veil of secrecy, has reunited the filmmaker with Marianne Jean-Baptiste, who received an Oscar nomination for his 1996 drama “Secrets & Lies.” Michele Austin, another frequent Leigh collaborator, also stars.
“Hard Truths” was shot in London in 2023 and, following his historical epics “Mr. Turner” and “Peterloo,” sees Leigh return to the contemporary world. However, plot details are still scarce, the film’s only description being that it’s a “tough but compassionate intimate study of family life”.
Leigh was joined behind the camera by his regular crew members, including producer Georgina Lowe, cinematographer Dick Pope, costume designer Jacqueline Durran (who recently earned her 9th Oscar nomination for her work on “Barbie”), production designer Suzie Davis, composer Gary Yershon...
- 2/14/2024
- by Alex Ritman
- Variety Film + TV
Mike Leigh has unveiled the first look at what will be the “Another Year” and “Secrets & Lies” director’s 23rd feature film, a new project called “Hard Truths.”
“Hard Truths” reunites Leigh with actress Marianne Jean-Baptiste, who starred in 1996’s “Secrets & Lies” and was Oscar-nominated in the Best Supporting Actress category for her performance in the film. You can see her looking concerned and harried while talking on the phone in the first look photo of the film above.
After last directing “Mr. Turner” and “Peterloo,” both of which were historical dramas, Leigh is back in a contemporary setting for “Hard Truths.” Specific plot details are still being kept under wraps, but the film is described as a “tough but compassionate and intimate study of family life.” Michele Austin, another of Leigh’s frequent collaborators, also stars.
Any details about “Hard Truths” were largely secret (it’s not...
“Hard Truths” reunites Leigh with actress Marianne Jean-Baptiste, who starred in 1996’s “Secrets & Lies” and was Oscar-nominated in the Best Supporting Actress category for her performance in the film. You can see her looking concerned and harried while talking on the phone in the first look photo of the film above.
After last directing “Mr. Turner” and “Peterloo,” both of which were historical dramas, Leigh is back in a contemporary setting for “Hard Truths.” Specific plot details are still being kept under wraps, but the film is described as a “tough but compassionate and intimate study of family life.” Michele Austin, another of Leigh’s frequent collaborators, also stars.
Any details about “Hard Truths” were largely secret (it’s not...
- 2/14/2024
- by Brian Welk
- Indiewire
Mike Leigh’s hotly-anticipated, but super-secretive, new film will see the iconoclastic British director reunite with his Secrets & Lies star Marianne Jean-Baptiste.
Hard Truths is Leigh’s first film since 2018’s Peterloo and will co-star frequent Leigh collaborator Michele Austin (Another Year, Secrets & Lies). After Peterloo and 2014’s Mr. Turner, both period dramas, Hard Truths will see Leigh return to the modern day, with a drama described as “a tough but compassionate intimate study of family life.”
Other Leigh regulars returning for Hard Truths include producer Georgina Lowe, cinematographer Dick Pope, costume designer Jacqueline Durran, production designer Suzie Davis, composer Gary Yershon and casting director Nina Gold.
Secrets & Lies, which premiered in Cannes in 1996, winning the Palme d’Or, featured Jean-Baptiste as a well-off Black professional who seeks out her biological mother, a poor white factory worker living in East London, played by Brenda Blethyn. Jean-Baptiste was Oscar-nominated for her performance,...
Hard Truths is Leigh’s first film since 2018’s Peterloo and will co-star frequent Leigh collaborator Michele Austin (Another Year, Secrets & Lies). After Peterloo and 2014’s Mr. Turner, both period dramas, Hard Truths will see Leigh return to the modern day, with a drama described as “a tough but compassionate intimate study of family life.”
Other Leigh regulars returning for Hard Truths include producer Georgina Lowe, cinematographer Dick Pope, costume designer Jacqueline Durran, production designer Suzie Davis, composer Gary Yershon and casting director Nina Gold.
Secrets & Lies, which premiered in Cannes in 1996, winning the Palme d’Or, featured Jean-Baptiste as a well-off Black professional who seeks out her biological mother, a poor white factory worker living in East London, played by Brenda Blethyn. Jean-Baptiste was Oscar-nominated for her performance,...
- 2/14/2024
- by Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Seven-time Oscar nominee Mike Leigh has reteamed with British actor Marianne Jean-Baptiste, who led his 1996 Oscar-nominated Secrets & Lies, on his latest feature, Hard Truths. We can share a first look at the feature above.
We first broke news of the project, which was shot in London, last May. Hard Truths is described as a movie set in the “contemporary world” with a plot said to be a “tough but compassionate intimate study of family life.”
The film also stars Michele Austin and is a Thin Man Films and The Mediapro Studio co-production, co-financed by Film4 in association with Creativity Media. Bleecker Street will release the film theatrically in the US later this year, with Studiocanal releasing in the UK and Cornerstone Films handling international sales. The film will be part of the company’s upcoming European Film Market slate.
Leigh was joined behind the camera by regular crew members,...
We first broke news of the project, which was shot in London, last May. Hard Truths is described as a movie set in the “contemporary world” with a plot said to be a “tough but compassionate intimate study of family life.”
The film also stars Michele Austin and is a Thin Man Films and The Mediapro Studio co-production, co-financed by Film4 in association with Creativity Media. Bleecker Street will release the film theatrically in the US later this year, with Studiocanal releasing in the UK and Cornerstone Films handling international sales. The film will be part of the company’s upcoming European Film Market slate.
Leigh was joined behind the camera by regular crew members,...
- 2/14/2024
- by Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
“Wonka” reigns again on the VOD charts, but the week’s real star is Amazon/MGM’s “American Fiction.” Driven by its five Oscar nominations and continued success at the box office, it reached #2 at Apple TV/iTunes on Saturday and is currently #4. Not bad for a racial satire that’s grossed $17 million to date.
It suggests the film will earn substantially more than its theatrical take, reflecting smart strategy: While Amazon makes movies for streaming, it recognizes (like Apple) the value of making VOD its first at-home platform. It’s also a good argument that the Netflix Mo of deemphasizing theatrical and skipping VOD misses opportunities to get awards and audience traction.
“Oppenheimer” (Universal) repeats as #2 on two charts, though its reduced price keeps it from making Vudu revenue-driven list. Christopher Nolan’s Oscar frontrunner has been the strongest film since its home-viewing debut three months ago, now sustained by Oscar nomination-leading total.
It suggests the film will earn substantially more than its theatrical take, reflecting smart strategy: While Amazon makes movies for streaming, it recognizes (like Apple) the value of making VOD its first at-home platform. It’s also a good argument that the Netflix Mo of deemphasizing theatrical and skipping VOD misses opportunities to get awards and audience traction.
“Oppenheimer” (Universal) repeats as #2 on two charts, though its reduced price keeps it from making Vudu revenue-driven list. Christopher Nolan’s Oscar frontrunner has been the strongest film since its home-viewing debut three months ago, now sustained by Oscar nomination-leading total.
- 2/12/2024
- by Tom Brueggemann
- Indiewire
The Directors Guild will hand out the season’s next big precursor prizes this weekend, and one of the movies the organization might honor is newly available to watch at home.
The contender to watch this week: “American Fiction“
One of the last few Best Picture nominees to hit digital platforms, Cord Jefferson‘s observant directorial debut — part publishing-industry satire, part domestic drama — is now available to purchase on VOD for $19.99. The movie, which earned acting nods for Jeffrey Wright and Sterling K. Brown, could pull off a minor surprise and take home Best Adaptation Screenplay on Oscar night, though it would have to beat both “Oppenheimer’ and “Barbie” to do so. Jefferson may also win Best First-Time Feature Director at the DGA Awards on Saturday.
Other contenders:
“Suncoast”: Sitcom veteran Laura Chinn‘s coming-of-age drama premiered at the Sundance Film Festival last month, where the reviews were mixed to positive.
The contender to watch this week: “American Fiction“
One of the last few Best Picture nominees to hit digital platforms, Cord Jefferson‘s observant directorial debut — part publishing-industry satire, part domestic drama — is now available to purchase on VOD for $19.99. The movie, which earned acting nods for Jeffrey Wright and Sterling K. Brown, could pull off a minor surprise and take home Best Adaptation Screenplay on Oscar night, though it would have to beat both “Oppenheimer’ and “Barbie” to do so. Jefferson may also win Best First-Time Feature Director at the DGA Awards on Saturday.
Other contenders:
“Suncoast”: Sitcom veteran Laura Chinn‘s coming-of-age drama premiered at the Sundance Film Festival last month, where the reviews were mixed to positive.
- 2/10/2024
- by Matthew Jacobs
- Gold Derby
Anna Diop has signed on to star opposite Corey Hawkins and Willem Dafoe in “The Man in My Basement,” directed by Nadia Latif.
The film is an adaptation of Walter Mosley’s bestselling psychological thriller, and Diop’s casting sets an onscreen reunion with Hawkins, her co-star in the 2017 series “24: Legacy.”
Hawkins stars in the movie as Charles Blakey, a man living in the African American neighborhood of Sag Harbor, who is “out of work, out of luck and on the verge of foreclosure on his ancestral home.”
“A knock on the door from a mysterious white businessman, Anniston Bennet (Dafoe), brings a bizarre and lucrative proposition; rent his dusty stand-up basement out and receive enough money to clear his debts for good,” the official synopsis explains. “Once Charles accepts, he finds himself led down a terrifying path that confronts his family’s ghosts and locks the men in a terrifying puzzle,...
The film is an adaptation of Walter Mosley’s bestselling psychological thriller, and Diop’s casting sets an onscreen reunion with Hawkins, her co-star in the 2017 series “24: Legacy.”
Hawkins stars in the movie as Charles Blakey, a man living in the African American neighborhood of Sag Harbor, who is “out of work, out of luck and on the verge of foreclosure on his ancestral home.”
“A knock on the door from a mysterious white businessman, Anniston Bennet (Dafoe), brings a bizarre and lucrative proposition; rent his dusty stand-up basement out and receive enough money to clear his debts for good,” the official synopsis explains. “Once Charles accepts, he finds himself led down a terrifying path that confronts his family’s ghosts and locks the men in a terrifying puzzle,...
- 2/6/2024
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Biblical epics used to be Hollywood's bread and butter. From "The Ten Commandments" to "Ben-Hur," the unique blend of high-stakes drama, and big-scale spectacle used to dominate the box office as well as awards season. Today, they've all but disappeared from the filmmaking landscape. This makes the release of a movie like "The Book of Clarence" all the more special.
Written and directed by Jeymes "The Bullitts" Samuel ("The Harder They Fall"), "The Book of Clarence" combines a biblical epic with the comedic tone of Monty Python's "Life of Brian" or Mel Brook's "History of the World," poking fun at the story of a rising messiah, and the man who sees that fame and power and decides to get some of that for himself.
/Film's own Witney Seibold reviewed "The Book of Clarence" and called it "aspirational, unique, moving, funny, weird, and very shaggy." The film stars Lakeith Stanfield ("Atlanta...
Written and directed by Jeymes "The Bullitts" Samuel ("The Harder They Fall"), "The Book of Clarence" combines a biblical epic with the comedic tone of Monty Python's "Life of Brian" or Mel Brook's "History of the World," poking fun at the story of a rising messiah, and the man who sees that fame and power and decides to get some of that for himself.
/Film's own Witney Seibold reviewed "The Book of Clarence" and called it "aspirational, unique, moving, funny, weird, and very shaggy." The film stars Lakeith Stanfield ("Atlanta...
- 2/5/2024
- by Rafael Motamayor
- Slash Film
“Licorice Pizza” star Alana Haim is reuniting with filmmaker Paul Thomas Anderson for his next film. Anderson wrote the script and is directing the currently untitled film for Warner Bros., led by Michael De Luca and Pam Abdy (who gave a green light to “Licorice Pizza” when they ran MGM).
Along with Haim, other new additions to the cast include “A Thousand and One” breakout Teyana Taylor, “Creed” actor Wood Harris, rapper Shayna McHayle (a.k.a. Junglepussy) and newcomer Chase Infiniti. Anderson is producing the film with Sara Murphy and Adam Somner.
Oscar winners Leonardo DiCaprio and Sean Penn were previously reported to star in the feature, alongside “Girls Trip” star Regina Hall. Hall previously worked with McHayle on Andrew Bujalski’s 2018 comedy “Support the Girls.”
While plot details are being kept under wraps, a source with knowledge of the production previously told Variety that the feature will be...
Along with Haim, other new additions to the cast include “A Thousand and One” breakout Teyana Taylor, “Creed” actor Wood Harris, rapper Shayna McHayle (a.k.a. Junglepussy) and newcomer Chase Infiniti. Anderson is producing the film with Sara Murphy and Adam Somner.
Oscar winners Leonardo DiCaprio and Sean Penn were previously reported to star in the feature, alongside “Girls Trip” star Regina Hall. Hall previously worked with McHayle on Andrew Bujalski’s 2018 comedy “Support the Girls.”
While plot details are being kept under wraps, a source with knowledge of the production previously told Variety that the feature will be...
- 2/2/2024
- by Katcy Stephan
- Variety Film + TV
Paul Thomas Anderson has rounded out the cast of his latest feature. Alana Haim, who made her acting debut in Anderson’s Licorice Pizza, and A Thousand and One breakout Teyana Taylor have been added to the cast, along with Wood Harris and Shayna McHayle.
Newcomer Chase Infiniti has also joined the untitled feature, which is currently in production and, as previously announced, stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn and Regina Hall. The plot of the film is being kept under wraps.
Anderson wrote the script and will produce with Sara Murphy and Adam Somner, both of whom worked with the filmmaker on Licorice Pizza.
The project is set up at Warner Bros, headed by Mike De Luca and Pam Abdy, who worked with Anderson on the 2021 Oscar-nominated film during their tenure running MGM. While leading New Line, De Luca also worked with the director on Boogie Nights and Magnolia.
Outside of Licorice Pizza,...
Newcomer Chase Infiniti has also joined the untitled feature, which is currently in production and, as previously announced, stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn and Regina Hall. The plot of the film is being kept under wraps.
Anderson wrote the script and will produce with Sara Murphy and Adam Somner, both of whom worked with the filmmaker on Licorice Pizza.
The project is set up at Warner Bros, headed by Mike De Luca and Pam Abdy, who worked with Anderson on the 2021 Oscar-nominated film during their tenure running MGM. While leading New Line, De Luca also worked with the director on Boogie Nights and Magnolia.
Outside of Licorice Pizza,...
- 2/2/2024
- by Mia Galuppo
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Graphic: Images: Bleecker Street, David Apuzzo/Mainframe Pictures, Moris Puccio/Legendary Entertainment, Amazon MGM Studios
January is always a challenging month for moviegoing, and this January was particularly tough sledding, what with the impact of the actor’s and writer’s strikes taking a steep toll on an already-limited schedule of theatrical releases.
January is always a challenging month for moviegoing, and this January was particularly tough sledding, what with the impact of the actor’s and writer’s strikes taking a steep toll on an already-limited schedule of theatrical releases.
- 2/1/2024
- avclub.com
Netflix kicked off February with news of the streaming service’s 2024 film slate.
The steamer, which landed 18 Oscar nominations this year – including seven for Bradley Cooper’s “Maestro” – will debut numerous populist films in 2024, including new projects from Jamie Foxx and Cameron Diaz, Mark Wahlberg and Halle Berry, Jenifer Lopez, Millie Bobby Brown, Eddie Murphy, and more.
Well-known directors with movies set to premiere on Netflix this year include Tyler Perry (two titles), McG, Richard Linklater, and Lee Daniels. Comedian Jerry Seinfeld will also make his directorial debut with “Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story.”
On the awards front, while it’s too early to tell which projects might pop – and what movies Netflix might acquire for release this year, similarly to how the studio purchased Todd Haynes’ “May December” at the Cannes Film Festival last year – titles to flag include “The Piano Lesson” from Malcolm Washington with Samuel L. Jackson and John David Washington,...
The steamer, which landed 18 Oscar nominations this year – including seven for Bradley Cooper’s “Maestro” – will debut numerous populist films in 2024, including new projects from Jamie Foxx and Cameron Diaz, Mark Wahlberg and Halle Berry, Jenifer Lopez, Millie Bobby Brown, Eddie Murphy, and more.
Well-known directors with movies set to premiere on Netflix this year include Tyler Perry (two titles), McG, Richard Linklater, and Lee Daniels. Comedian Jerry Seinfeld will also make his directorial debut with “Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story.”
On the awards front, while it’s too early to tell which projects might pop – and what movies Netflix might acquire for release this year, similarly to how the studio purchased Todd Haynes’ “May December” at the Cannes Film Festival last year – titles to flag include “The Piano Lesson” from Malcolm Washington with Samuel L. Jackson and John David Washington,...
- 2/1/2024
- by Christopher Rosen
- Gold Derby
Exclusive: Independent Artist Group has signed Nicholas Pinnock, one of the stars of TriStar/Legendary’s The Book of Clarence, for representation.
A biblical dramedy written and directed by The Harder They Fall‘s Jeymes Samuel, Pinnock’s latest feature centers on Clarence (Lakeith Stanfield), who finds himself captivated by the power of the rising Messiah while struggling to find a better life, soon risking everything to carve a path to a divine existence. In it, he portrays Jesus, also starring opposite Omar Sy, Rj Cyler, Anna Diop, David Oyelowo, Alfre Woodard and many more. World premiering at last year’s BFI London Film Festival, the film was released in U.S. theaters on January 12.
Later this year, Pinnock will be seen in This Town, a limited series created for BBC by Steven Knight. Other upcoming projects include Robert Zemeckis’ film Here, based on the graphic novel by Richard McGuire,...
A biblical dramedy written and directed by The Harder They Fall‘s Jeymes Samuel, Pinnock’s latest feature centers on Clarence (Lakeith Stanfield), who finds himself captivated by the power of the rising Messiah while struggling to find a better life, soon risking everything to carve a path to a divine existence. In it, he portrays Jesus, also starring opposite Omar Sy, Rj Cyler, Anna Diop, David Oyelowo, Alfre Woodard and many more. World premiering at last year’s BFI London Film Festival, the film was released in U.S. theaters on January 12.
Later this year, Pinnock will be seen in This Town, a limited series created for BBC by Steven Knight. Other upcoming projects include Robert Zemeckis’ film Here, based on the graphic novel by Richard McGuire,...
- 1/25/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Mean Girls held onto the top spot of the box-office weekend for a second consecutive week, again slightly besting The Beekeeper by a mere $3.2 million.
In its second weekend of release, Mean Girls brought in $11.7 million for Paramount Pictures, giving the film a two-week tally of $50.0 million. Meanwhile, The Beekeeper held onto second-place with $8.5 million in its second weekend as well. This gives that film an overall total of $31.1 million. Also holding steady from last weekend was Wonka which held onto third place with $6.4 million for Warner Bros. in its sixth weekend of release, lifting its overall total to $187.2 million. Last weekend’s fourth- and fifth-place films swapped places as Anyone But You took fourth with $5.4 million – bringing its five-week total to $64.2 million for Columbia Pictures – and Migration landed in fifth place with $5.3 million for Universal – giving it a five-week total of $94.7 million.
Elsewhere, Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom managed...
In its second weekend of release, Mean Girls brought in $11.7 million for Paramount Pictures, giving the film a two-week tally of $50.0 million. Meanwhile, The Beekeeper held onto second-place with $8.5 million in its second weekend as well. This gives that film an overall total of $31.1 million. Also holding steady from last weekend was Wonka which held onto third place with $6.4 million for Warner Bros. in its sixth weekend of release, lifting its overall total to $187.2 million. Last weekend’s fourth- and fifth-place films swapped places as Anyone But You took fourth with $5.4 million – bringing its five-week total to $64.2 million for Columbia Pictures – and Migration landed in fifth place with $5.3 million for Universal – giving it a five-week total of $94.7 million.
Elsewhere, Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom managed...
- 1/22/2024
- by Mike Tyrkus
- CinemaNerdz
As we once again find ourselves in the midst of another year at the movies, we eagerly look forward to the films scheduled for release in the coming year. There is probably something coming out that should be over interest to everyone (at least that’s probably the hope of most filmmakers). As always, there will be the usual sequels and big blockbusters, as well as a plethora of additional titles in multiple genres to choose from. We hope you find this list of the upcoming films of 2024 and their release dates useful and that it helps you plan what you’re going to look forward to over the next twelve months.
The list below gathers all of the titles we know (right now at least) that are coming in 2024 by their current release date. Remember, these dates are subject to change. So, as dates change (and time permits) we...
The list below gathers all of the titles we know (right now at least) that are coming in 2024 by their current release date. Remember, these dates are subject to change. So, as dates change (and time permits) we...
- 1/21/2024
- by Mike Tyrkus
- CinemaNerdz
Jeymes Samuel’s biblical epic was slated to be released tomorrow (19th January), but the film has disappeared from the UK release schedule.
Jeymes Samuel’s biblical dramedy The Book Of Clarence has been quietly removed from the UK release calendar – mere hours before it was supposed to appear in cinemas. The film was originally slated to come out tomorrow, 19th January.
Samuel’s film received its world premiere at the BFI London Film Festival last October. Reviews were lukewarm, but all of its promotional materials mentioned that aforementioned release date.
Deadline also reports that Sony and Legendary, which apparently requested the move, are now planning a March release for the film instead.
The Book Of Clarence stars Lakeith Stanfield as the titular character, who tries to capitalise on the rise of Jesus Christ and fakes being a Messiah, spinning an impressive web of lies.
The large ensemble cast also includes Benedict Cumberbatch,...
Jeymes Samuel’s biblical dramedy The Book Of Clarence has been quietly removed from the UK release calendar – mere hours before it was supposed to appear in cinemas. The film was originally slated to come out tomorrow, 19th January.
Samuel’s film received its world premiere at the BFI London Film Festival last October. Reviews were lukewarm, but all of its promotional materials mentioned that aforementioned release date.
Deadline also reports that Sony and Legendary, which apparently requested the move, are now planning a March release for the film instead.
The Book Of Clarence stars Lakeith Stanfield as the titular character, who tries to capitalise on the rise of Jesus Christ and fakes being a Messiah, spinning an impressive web of lies.
The large ensemble cast also includes Benedict Cumberbatch,...
- 1/18/2024
- by Maria Lattila
- Film Stories
Exclusive: The Book of Clarence, the Legendary and Jay Z-produced adventure-comedy, won’t be released in UK cinemas this week as planned.
The biblical epic has quietly dropped off the UK release schedule at the eleventh hour after initially being lined up for a January 19 release by Sony. UK exhibitors were set for a January 19 launch — the film has been listed on multiple cinema sites as opening this week — and marketing materials were deployed with a January 19 listing.
We understand a March release is now more likely. Sony is handling UK distribution, but we understand the decision to push back the release came from Legendary, which produced and financed the film.
News of the calendar switch comes after the pic recently opened stateside, taking just $3M over the 4-day MLK Jr. holiday weekend, giving the film a ninth-place debut on the charts. We hear that a later UK date...
The biblical epic has quietly dropped off the UK release schedule at the eleventh hour after initially being lined up for a January 19 release by Sony. UK exhibitors were set for a January 19 launch — the film has been listed on multiple cinema sites as opening this week — and marketing materials were deployed with a January 19 listing.
We understand a March release is now more likely. Sony is handling UK distribution, but we understand the decision to push back the release came from Legendary, which produced and financed the film.
News of the calendar switch comes after the pic recently opened stateside, taking just $3M over the 4-day MLK Jr. holiday weekend, giving the film a ninth-place debut on the charts. We hear that a later UK date...
- 1/18/2024
- by Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
This past week saw the release of The Book of Clarence, a movie about a down-on-his-luck guy who hits upon a get-rich-quick scheme that leads him into a heap of trouble. It’s a classic topic for a movie, but it is treading on more controversial ground than usual. Because in the case of this story about a hustler getting in over his head, the hustle happens to be set around Israel and Palestine during the life and times of Jesus of Nazareth. In fact, that is Clarence’s whole scheme: He sees Jesus and decides to get into the messiah business.
This is not the first film to portray the story of one of Jesus’ fictional contemporaries. Monty Python’s Life of Brian attracted protests, controversy, and endless talk show guest slots over its portrayal of a man who was definitely not the messiah, just a very naughty boy.
This is not the first film to portray the story of one of Jesus’ fictional contemporaries. Monty Python’s Life of Brian attracted protests, controversy, and endless talk show guest slots over its portrayal of a man who was definitely not the messiah, just a very naughty boy.
- 1/18/2024
- by David Crow
- Den of Geek
THR reports that Lakeith Stanfield will star alongside Mark Wahlberg in Play Dirty, an adaptation of Donald R. Westlake’s Parker novels which will be directed by Shane Black.
Play Dirty will star Mark Wahlberg as “the hardened professional thief who is, naturally, double-crossed and left for dead. His hunt for revenge, however, brings with it a shot at the biggest heist of his career. But, per the studio, even with the help of his partner, an actor-slash-con artist named Grofield, he’ll still need to outsmart a South American dictator, the New York mob and the world’s richest man if he hopes to stay alive.” Lakeith Stanfield will play Grofield.
In addition to directing Play Dirty, Shane Black also co-wrote the script alongside Charles Mondry and Anthony Bagarozzi. The project was first announced two years ago, but there have been some major changes since then. At the time,...
Play Dirty will star Mark Wahlberg as “the hardened professional thief who is, naturally, double-crossed and left for dead. His hunt for revenge, however, brings with it a shot at the biggest heist of his career. But, per the studio, even with the help of his partner, an actor-slash-con artist named Grofield, he’ll still need to outsmart a South American dictator, the New York mob and the world’s richest man if he hopes to stay alive.” Lakeith Stanfield will play Grofield.
In addition to directing Play Dirty, Shane Black also co-wrote the script alongside Charles Mondry and Anthony Bagarozzi. The project was first announced two years ago, but there have been some major changes since then. At the time,...
- 1/16/2024
- by Kevin Fraser
- JoBlo.com
Lakeith Stanfield, who is coming off of starring in Jeymes Samuel’s The Book of Clarence, has joined Mark Wahlberg in in Play Dirty, the crime thriller that Shane Black is directing for Amazon MGM Studios.
An adaptation of Donald E. Westlake’s Parker novels, the feature stars Wahlberg as the hardened professional thief who is, naturally, double-crossed and left for dead. His hunt for revenge, however, brings with it a shot at the biggest heist of his career. But, per the studio, even with the help of his partner, an actor-slash-con artist named Grofield, he’ll still need to outsmart a South American dictator, the New York mob and the world’s richest man if he hopes to stay alive.
Stanfield will play Grofield, the con artist.
Black, Charles Mondry, and Anthony Bagarozzi wrote the script.
Jules Daly and Marc Toberoff are producing. The project was previously being produced...
An adaptation of Donald E. Westlake’s Parker novels, the feature stars Wahlberg as the hardened professional thief who is, naturally, double-crossed and left for dead. His hunt for revenge, however, brings with it a shot at the biggest heist of his career. But, per the studio, even with the help of his partner, an actor-slash-con artist named Grofield, he’ll still need to outsmart a South American dictator, the New York mob and the world’s richest man if he hopes to stay alive.
Stanfield will play Grofield, the con artist.
Black, Charles Mondry, and Anthony Bagarozzi wrote the script.
Jules Daly and Marc Toberoff are producing. The project was previously being produced...
- 1/16/2024
- by Borys Kit
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The MLK holiday weekend proved to be surprisingly fruitful at the box office thanks to strong showings from both the "Mean Girls" movie musical and Jason Statham's new beat-em-up, "The Beekeeper." Unfortunately, they can't all be winners and Sony Pictures' new comedic Biblical epic "The Book of Clarence" faltered in its debut. It now has the distinction of being the first true theatrical disappointment of 2024.
Directed by Jeymes Samuel, the film opened to just $2.5 million over the weekend, with that number growing to $3 million when accounting for the Monday holiday, per The Numbers. It placed 10th on the charts, barely squeaking into the top 10 sandwiched between a pair of holdovers in the forms of "The Boys in the Boat" ($3.4 million) and "The Iron Claw" ($2.4 million). A rough start, to be certain. And yes, certain parts of the U.S. are experiencing terrible winter weather, which impacted moviegoing for sure.
Directed by Jeymes Samuel, the film opened to just $2.5 million over the weekend, with that number growing to $3 million when accounting for the Monday holiday, per The Numbers. It placed 10th on the charts, barely squeaking into the top 10 sandwiched between a pair of holdovers in the forms of "The Boys in the Boat" ($3.4 million) and "The Iron Claw" ($2.4 million). A rough start, to be certain. And yes, certain parts of the U.S. are experiencing terrible winter weather, which impacted moviegoing for sure.
- 1/16/2024
- by Ryan Scott
- Slash Film
Paramount’s “Mean Girls” musical earned a grool $33.2 million from 3,791 theaters over the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend, beating expectations.
Based on the Broadway adaptation of the 2004 comedy classic, “Mean Girls” was originally commissioned with plans to skip theaters and make a streaming debut directly on Paramount+, but executives opted for a theatrical release after test screenings. The musical film cost just $36 million.
The new “Mean Girls” stars Angourie Rice as Cady Heron, a role originated by Lindsay Lohan, who must navigate the social scene of her new high school ruled by the Plastics. Reneé Rapp reprises her Broadway role as queen bee Regina George, with a cast that also includes Bebe Wood, Avantika, Jaquel Spivey, Auli’i Cravalho and original stars Tim Meadows and producer-writer Tina Fey.
Paramount intentionally downplayed the song-and-dance numbers in promotional materials for the movie musical, which earned a “B” grade through research firm Cinema Score.
Based on the Broadway adaptation of the 2004 comedy classic, “Mean Girls” was originally commissioned with plans to skip theaters and make a streaming debut directly on Paramount+, but executives opted for a theatrical release after test screenings. The musical film cost just $36 million.
The new “Mean Girls” stars Angourie Rice as Cady Heron, a role originated by Lindsay Lohan, who must navigate the social scene of her new high school ruled by the Plastics. Reneé Rapp reprises her Broadway role as queen bee Regina George, with a cast that also includes Bebe Wood, Avantika, Jaquel Spivey, Auli’i Cravalho and original stars Tim Meadows and producer-writer Tina Fey.
Paramount intentionally downplayed the song-and-dance numbers in promotional materials for the movie musical, which earned a “B” grade through research firm Cinema Score.
- 1/15/2024
- by Michaela Zee
- Variety Film + TV
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.