10x Grammy nominee Janelle Monáe (Glass Onion) has found her newest film role in Universal Pictures’ coming-of-age musical from director Michel Gondry and producer Pharrell Williams, the studio announced on Thursday.
Details as to her role in the untitled feature project haven’t been disclosed. Set in Virginia Beach in the summer of 1977, the film is inspired by the neighborhood where Williams grew up, and its Atlantis Apartments, in particular.
Kelvin Harrison Jr. leads an ensemble that also includes The Holdovers Oscar winner Da’Vine Joy Randolph, Halle Bailey, Oscar nominee Brian Tyree Henry, and Grammy winner Missy Elliott.
Written by Martin Hynes and Steven Levenson, the film will be produced by Williams and Mimi Valdés for i am Other, as well as Gil Netter for Gil Netter Productions. Universal’s Senior Vice President of Production Development Ryan Jones and Director of Production Development Christine Sun are overseeing the project for the studio.
Details as to her role in the untitled feature project haven’t been disclosed. Set in Virginia Beach in the summer of 1977, the film is inspired by the neighborhood where Williams grew up, and its Atlantis Apartments, in particular.
Kelvin Harrison Jr. leads an ensemble that also includes The Holdovers Oscar winner Da’Vine Joy Randolph, Halle Bailey, Oscar nominee Brian Tyree Henry, and Grammy winner Missy Elliott.
Written by Martin Hynes and Steven Levenson, the film will be produced by Williams and Mimi Valdés for i am Other, as well as Gil Netter for Gil Netter Productions. Universal’s Senior Vice President of Production Development Ryan Jones and Director of Production Development Christine Sun are overseeing the project for the studio.
- 5/2/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Uma Thurman reunited with her Pulp Fiction co-stars John Travolta, Samuel L. Jackson, and Harvey Keitel on Thursday to celebrate the film’s 30th anniversary as part of the 2024 TCM Classic Film Festival opening night.
Thurman joined the cast of the 1994 Quentin Tarantino independent crime film as Mia Wallace—the role that catapulted her to stardom.
30 years later, Uma Thurman’s portrayal of Mia Wallace remains iconic, a testament to a role that was highly contested but became hers, defining a generation at the 2024 TCM Classic Film Festival (Credit: Miramax Films)
During the casting process for Mia Wallace in “Pulp Fiction,” Tarantino and Miramax considered numerous actresses, including Isabella Rossellini, Meg Ryan, Daryl Hannah, Joan Cusack, Kate Beckinsale, Halle Berry, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Holly Hunter, Alfre Woodard, and Michelle Pfeiffer, who was Tarantino’s preferred choice and auditioned for the role.
In the end, Thurman won the part, earning her an...
Thurman joined the cast of the 1994 Quentin Tarantino independent crime film as Mia Wallace—the role that catapulted her to stardom.
30 years later, Uma Thurman’s portrayal of Mia Wallace remains iconic, a testament to a role that was highly contested but became hers, defining a generation at the 2024 TCM Classic Film Festival (Credit: Miramax Films)
During the casting process for Mia Wallace in “Pulp Fiction,” Tarantino and Miramax considered numerous actresses, including Isabella Rossellini, Meg Ryan, Daryl Hannah, Joan Cusack, Kate Beckinsale, Halle Berry, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Holly Hunter, Alfre Woodard, and Michelle Pfeiffer, who was Tarantino’s preferred choice and auditioned for the role.
In the end, Thurman won the part, earning her an...
- 4/22/2024
- by Anne De Guia
- Your Next Shoes
It's astonishing to look back at John Lasseter's 1995 film "Toy Story" and regard how rudimentary it looks by today's standards. "Toy Story" was the first widely distributed CGI-animated feature film, and it felt overwhelmingly revolutionary at the time. Many were astonished at how expressive and fun CGI characters could be, and the film's success effectively ushered in a sea change in the animation world. In 2024, traditional cel animation is incredibly uncommon, and CGI is the naturally assumed standard.
CGI characters are designed to essentially be "puppets," in terms of their elasticity. Animators, at least at the time, were forced to stay on-model, only able to expand eyeballs or raise eyebrows so high. It wouldn't be for years that CG characters could mutate, squash, and stretch the way hand-drawn characters could. "Toy Story" benefitted from being about, well, toys. Its characters were all made of plastic, so there was an...
CGI characters are designed to essentially be "puppets," in terms of their elasticity. Animators, at least at the time, were forced to stay on-model, only able to expand eyeballs or raise eyebrows so high. It wouldn't be for years that CG characters could mutate, squash, and stretch the way hand-drawn characters could. "Toy Story" benefitted from being about, well, toys. Its characters were all made of plastic, so there was an...
- 4/1/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Emmy Award-winning actor Jack Black is known for his roles in family and comedy movies, in addition to his exceptional work as a voice artist for animated movies. The actor became a household name with High Fidelity in 2000, which led to him landing bigger parts in movies. Black solidified his position as a leading actor in the industry with 2003’s School of Rock and has appeared in movies including Goosebumps, Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, The House with a Clock in Its Walls, and more.
The actor has voiced one of his favorite animated characters, Po, in the Kung Fu Panda franchise and Bowser in the Super Mario Bros. movie. Jack Black is one of the most enthusiastic and passionate artists; whether it comes to acting, music, or comedy, he has managed to ace in all three fields. The actor recently revealed his favorite game and teased a possible sequel...
The actor has voiced one of his favorite animated characters, Po, in the Kung Fu Panda franchise and Bowser in the Super Mario Bros. movie. Jack Black is one of the most enthusiastic and passionate artists; whether it comes to acting, music, or comedy, he has managed to ace in all three fields. The actor recently revealed his favorite game and teased a possible sequel...
- 3/23/2024
- by Avneet Ahluwalia
- FandomWire
Jack Black recently told the news outlet Joe, while making the press rounds for “Kung Fu Panda 4,” that he is more than ready to make a sequel to “School of Rock,” the 2003 comedy classic that was directed by Richard Linklater and written by Mike White. Black has stayed close with his younger co-stars over the years, but a movie sequel has never gotten off the ground. “School of Rock” was adapted into a hit Broadway musical, but perhaps it’s time to get the band back together on the big screen.
“I wish there’d be a ‘School of Rock 2: Electric Boogaloo,'” Black said, referencing the 1984 sequel to the dance musical “Breakin’.” The comedian added: “I’m ready.”
“You know Mike White wrote the first one and he’s a genius,” Black continued. “And we’d have to have Mike White back in the saddle, but he...
“I wish there’d be a ‘School of Rock 2: Electric Boogaloo,'” Black said, referencing the 1984 sequel to the dance musical “Breakin’.” The comedian added: “I’m ready.”
“You know Mike White wrote the first one and he’s a genius,” Black continued. “And we’d have to have Mike White back in the saddle, but he...
- 3/22/2024
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
Before he went on to make HBO’s hit series The White Lotus, Mike White would partner with Jack Black for the charmingly funny music-themed comedy School of Rock. The movie drew on Black’s affinity for the music genre as he would previously play as one-half of the rock duo Tenacious D with Kyle Glass. While he’s currently obsessed with Minecraft after his time filming the movie adaptation, The Hollywood Reporter reveals that Black’s eager to return to the School of Rock for another movie.
According to THR, Black would recently speak with the publication Joe, when he said, “I wish there’d be a School of Rock 2 Electric Boogaloo.” Black would also love to see White return to write the movie, “You know Mike White wrote the first one and he’s a genius. And we’d have to have Mike White back in the saddle,...
According to THR, Black would recently speak with the publication Joe, when he said, “I wish there’d be a School of Rock 2 Electric Boogaloo.” Black would also love to see White return to write the movie, “You know Mike White wrote the first one and he’s a genius. And we’d have to have Mike White back in the saddle,...
- 3/22/2024
- by EJ Tangonan
- JoBlo.com
Jack Black is totally down for a School of Rock sequel.
More than two decades after the beloved musical comedy, directed by Richard Linklater, premiered in 2003, the actor-comedian recently told Joe that he’s “ready” to reprise his role as energetic musician Dewey Finn.
“I wish there’d be a School of Rock 2 Electric Boogaloo,” he said, referencing the movie title of the 1984 sequel to Breakin’.
School of Rock follows Dewey, who became a substitute teacher at an uptight elementary private school after being kicked out of his rock band. But along the way, he tries to turn his class into their own rock band. The film also starred Mike White, Joan Cusack, Adam Pascal, Lucas Papaelias, Chris Stack, Sarah Silverman and Miranda Cosgrove.
Black also admitted that he would like to see the original film’s writer, White, return to pen the script for the hypothetical sequel. However, he acknowledged that White,...
More than two decades after the beloved musical comedy, directed by Richard Linklater, premiered in 2003, the actor-comedian recently told Joe that he’s “ready” to reprise his role as energetic musician Dewey Finn.
“I wish there’d be a School of Rock 2 Electric Boogaloo,” he said, referencing the movie title of the 1984 sequel to Breakin’.
School of Rock follows Dewey, who became a substitute teacher at an uptight elementary private school after being kicked out of his rock band. But along the way, he tries to turn his class into their own rock band. The film also starred Mike White, Joan Cusack, Adam Pascal, Lucas Papaelias, Chris Stack, Sarah Silverman and Miranda Cosgrove.
Black also admitted that he would like to see the original film’s writer, White, return to pen the script for the hypothetical sequel. However, he acknowledged that White,...
- 3/22/2024
- by Carly Thomas
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
While his short tenure as a Saturday Night Live cast member may not be the first thing we think of when we think of Robert Downey Jr., he blazed a new path for the show Sunday night.
In winning Best Supporting Actor for Oppenheimer, Downey is now the first SNL cast member to take home an Oscar.
The have been other nominees. Dan Aykroyd, Bill Murray, Eddie Murphy, Joan Cusack, Michael McKean, and Kristen Wiig have all been been nomimated, but none sealed the deal. Downey himself was a three-time nominee going into Sunday night’s ceremony, having lost for Chaplin in 1993 and Tropic Thunder in 2009.
Downey served just one year as a cast member on the show in 1985, in what some consider SNL’s worst season. It was one of only two seasons that began with a complete cast turnover, and more than half weren’t asked back the following the season.
In winning Best Supporting Actor for Oppenheimer, Downey is now the first SNL cast member to take home an Oscar.
The have been other nominees. Dan Aykroyd, Bill Murray, Eddie Murphy, Joan Cusack, Michael McKean, and Kristen Wiig have all been been nomimated, but none sealed the deal. Downey himself was a three-time nominee going into Sunday night’s ceremony, having lost for Chaplin in 1993 and Tropic Thunder in 2009.
Downey served just one year as a cast member on the show in 1985, in what some consider SNL’s worst season. It was one of only two seasons that began with a complete cast turnover, and more than half weren’t asked back the following the season.
- 3/11/2024
- by Jed Rosenzweig
- LateNighter
To surprise of basically no one, Robert Downey Jr. has just won his first Oscar for Best Supporting Actor as Lewis Strauss in "Oppenheimer." The movie was one of the biggest hits of 2023, both critically and financially, and Downey was a huge part of it. He brought the scheming, insecure Strauss to life on the big screen, and helped take a storyline that could've felt like a bunch of complicated legal clutter and turn it into an emotional, high-stakes battle of wills.
Downey's win is heartwarming for a whole host of reasons. One is the actor's well-known struggles with addiction in the late '90s and early 2000s, and the other is Downey Jr.'s long history of starring in exciting, varied, interesting films. From "Tropic Thunder" to "Zodiac" to his many appearances in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, this man has definitely put in the work to reach this career milestone.
Downey's win is heartwarming for a whole host of reasons. One is the actor's well-known struggles with addiction in the late '90s and early 2000s, and the other is Downey Jr.'s long history of starring in exciting, varied, interesting films. From "Tropic Thunder" to "Zodiac" to his many appearances in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, this man has definitely put in the work to reach this career milestone.
- 3/11/2024
- by Michael Boyle
- Slash Film
For Henry Hill, the appeal of becoming a mobster is simple. “They weren’t like anybody else. They did whatever they wanted,” he explains in the famous monologue at the start of Goodfellas. “They parked in front of hydrants and never got a ticket. When they played cards all night nobody ever called the cops.”
Hank might also add to the list that they get the best deals at the grocery store, something that happens to wiseguy Vinnie Antonelli in the comedy My Blue Heaven. Noticing an unattended pricing gun, Vinnie gives himself a huge markdown on a bunch of steaks. When the cashier totals the haul at less than $20, he’s too impressed with the $100 bill Vinnie handed him to call foul. Even the manager only stops Vinnie to give the former mobster a comment card, saying nothing of the steal of a deal that just occurred.
Hill doesn’t realize it,...
Hank might also add to the list that they get the best deals at the grocery store, something that happens to wiseguy Vinnie Antonelli in the comedy My Blue Heaven. Noticing an unattended pricing gun, Vinnie gives himself a huge markdown on a bunch of steaks. When the cashier totals the haul at less than $20, he’s too impressed with the $100 bill Vinnie handed him to call foul. Even the manager only stops Vinnie to give the former mobster a comment card, saying nothing of the steal of a deal that just occurred.
Hill doesn’t realize it,...
- 3/6/2024
- by Joe George
- Den of Geek
Dakota Johnson recently took a stroll down memory lane, all the way back to her appearance on the series finale of The Office in May 2013.
While on Late Night With Seth Meyers on Wednesday night, the Madame Web actress explained how she was thrilled to guest-star on the popular NBC show because she was a huge fan, but it didn’t necessarily go as planned.
“That was honestly the worst time of my life,” Johnson joked about the experience. “They were like, ‘Do you want to be in the series finale?’ And I was like, ‘Of course,’ thinking that I’d show up for like half a day. And I was there for two weeks, and I’m barely in the fucking show.”
The actress proceeded to explain that it was somewhat awkward for her on set because while she was excited to be there, the mood was sort of...
While on Late Night With Seth Meyers on Wednesday night, the Madame Web actress explained how she was thrilled to guest-star on the popular NBC show because she was a huge fan, but it didn’t necessarily go as planned.
“That was honestly the worst time of my life,” Johnson joked about the experience. “They were like, ‘Do you want to be in the series finale?’ And I was like, ‘Of course,’ thinking that I’d show up for like half a day. And I was there for two weeks, and I’m barely in the fucking show.”
The actress proceeded to explain that it was somewhat awkward for her on set because while she was excited to be there, the mood was sort of...
- 2/8/2024
- by Carly Thomas
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Dakota Johnson hilariously reminisced with Seth Meyers on “Late Night” about their appearances on the “The Office” series finale, which aired on NBC in May 2013. Johnson, who was still years out at the time from her breakthrough in the “Fifty Shades” franchise, appeared as a new accountant named Dakota. Meyers, meanwhile, was seen on a television doing a fictional version of “Weekend Update” from “Saturday Night Live.” Johnson was a big fan of “The Office,” so she jumped at the chance to be a guest star on the last episode.
“That was honestly the worst time of my life,” Johnson quipped. “They were like, ‘Do you want to be in the series finale?’ And I was like, ‘Of course,’ thinking that I’d show up for like half a day. I was there for two weeks. And I’m barely in the fucking show.”
Asked by Meyers if it was...
“That was honestly the worst time of my life,” Johnson quipped. “They were like, ‘Do you want to be in the series finale?’ And I was like, ‘Of course,’ thinking that I’d show up for like half a day. I was there for two weeks. And I’m barely in the fucking show.”
Asked by Meyers if it was...
- 2/8/2024
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
15 years ago Diablo Cody and Karyn Kusama joined forced to deliver "Jennifer's Body," a genuine cult classic that went from mismarketed box office failure maligned by critics who didn't understand its brilliance, to the reclaimed favorite that became one of the selling points in the marketing for "Lisa Frankenstein." Cody returns to the teen horror comedy space alongside Zelda Williams (in her feature directorial debut) with a zany, heartfelt, and unapologetically odd story about a particularly peculiar high school outcast named Lisa (Kathryn Newton) who goes on a murderous adventure with the reanimated corpse of a young man — whose grave she hangs out at — in search of new limbs, a sense of autonomy, and maybe even love.
Set against the backdrop of the candy-coated neon bubblegum of the 1980s, "Lisa Frankenstein" makes no qualms about being for weirdos, and by weirdos. It's the resulting lovechild of a raucous orgy between "Edward Scissorhands,...
Set against the backdrop of the candy-coated neon bubblegum of the 1980s, "Lisa Frankenstein" makes no qualms about being for weirdos, and by weirdos. It's the resulting lovechild of a raucous orgy between "Edward Scissorhands,...
- 2/7/2024
- by BJ Colangelo
- Slash Film
“May December,” the newest acclaimed drama film from Todd Haynes, is now available to stream on Netflix, and one of the film’s stars, Julianne Moore, is already an early favorite to receive a Best Supporting Actress Oscar nomination for her spellbinding performance. Let’s look back at her five Academy Award races and talk about why Moore finally won her first gold trophy in 2015 for “Still Alice” (2014).
Her first Oscar nomination came in 1998 in the Best Supporting Actress category for “Boogie Nights” (1997). Moore’s only Academy Award nom of the 1990s put her up against Joan Cusack for “In & Out,” Minnie Driver for “Good Will Hunting,” Gloria Stuart for “Titanic” and Kim Basinger for “L.A. Confidential.” Moore didn’t have a chance that first time around because Basinger dominated the category all season, her beloved film often showing up in the Best Picture and Best Director categories,...
Her first Oscar nomination came in 1998 in the Best Supporting Actress category for “Boogie Nights” (1997). Moore’s only Academy Award nom of the 1990s put her up against Joan Cusack for “In & Out,” Minnie Driver for “Good Will Hunting,” Gloria Stuart for “Titanic” and Kim Basinger for “L.A. Confidential.” Moore didn’t have a chance that first time around because Basinger dominated the category all season, her beloved film often showing up in the Best Picture and Best Director categories,...
- 12/12/2023
- by Brian Rowe
- Gold Derby
Abigail Breslin is paying tribute to his My Sister’s Keeper co-star Evan Ellingson after news of his death.
In a post on Instagram, Breslin remembered Ellingson, who played her big brother in the 2009 film.
“Evan Ellingson was a kind, funny and extremely talented human being,” Breslin shared. “Evan was a genuinely thoughtful person who cared so much about turning in the best performance, which he accomplished. Some of his scenes in Msk still give me chills.”
Breslin continued, “He was also silly, funny, a prankster, a lover of Red Bull (I hated the smell of Red Bull) and he was energetic and the life of the party.”
Although the on-camera siblings didn’t keep in touch after filming, Breslin said that Ellingson, “always stayed in my mind as a wonderful and sweet soul, one I am grateful to have crossed paths with. My prayers and condolences are with his family at this difficult time.
In a post on Instagram, Breslin remembered Ellingson, who played her big brother in the 2009 film.
“Evan Ellingson was a kind, funny and extremely talented human being,” Breslin shared. “Evan was a genuinely thoughtful person who cared so much about turning in the best performance, which he accomplished. Some of his scenes in Msk still give me chills.”
Breslin continued, “He was also silly, funny, a prankster, a lover of Red Bull (I hated the smell of Red Bull) and he was energetic and the life of the party.”
Although the on-camera siblings didn’t keep in touch after filming, Breslin said that Ellingson, “always stayed in my mind as a wonderful and sweet soul, one I am grateful to have crossed paths with. My prayers and condolences are with his family at this difficult time.
- 11/7/2023
- by Armando Tinoco
- Deadline Film + TV
Evan Ellingson, best known for his roles in "My Sister's Keeper," "CSI: Miami," and "24," has died at the age of 35.
According to TMZ, who spoke to Ellingson's father, Michael, the former child star died in his home in San Bernardino, California, and the circumstances surrounding his death are unclear at the moment, although officials do not suspect any foul play.
Ellingson started his career as a child actor at the age of 13, starring in the popular daytime television soap opera, "General Hospital," where he played the role of young Luke Spencer. Soon after, he went on to star as a young Christopher Titus in comedian's own Fox sitcom "Titus," which is best known for its unique setting, where a "neutral space" featured standup routines that explored facets of interpersonal relationships. By this time, Ellingson had made a name for himself and was soon set on the track of memorable sitcom...
According to TMZ, who spoke to Ellingson's father, Michael, the former child star died in his home in San Bernardino, California, and the circumstances surrounding his death are unclear at the moment, although officials do not suspect any foul play.
Ellingson started his career as a child actor at the age of 13, starring in the popular daytime television soap opera, "General Hospital," where he played the role of young Luke Spencer. Soon after, he went on to star as a young Christopher Titus in comedian's own Fox sitcom "Titus," which is best known for its unique setting, where a "neutral space" featured standup routines that explored facets of interpersonal relationships. By this time, Ellingson had made a name for himself and was soon set on the track of memorable sitcom...
- 11/6/2023
- by Debopriyaa Dutta
- Slash Film
When you think about where to head for Halloween favorites, Disney+ probably doesn’t immediately spring to mind. But just because Disney+ is free from blood-and-gore extravaganzas doesn’t mean it can’t scratch your spooky itch. In fact, far from it! There is a pretty robust amount of Halloween (and Halloween-adjacent) fair on Disney’s direct-to-consumer platform, including a bunch of new stuff that was recently added and so many classics, for every age group. Here are our choices for the very best Halloween movies and shows on Disney+ right now.
Frankenweenie (2012) Photo: Disney
Unlike other Disney remakes, which start out in animation before transitioning to live-action, Tim Burton decided to remake his oddball live-action short film (one of his “after school projects” that kept him busy while animating for Disney) in the form of a feature-length stop-motion animated film. Talk about a curveball! One of his most emotionally resonant and overlooked films,...
Frankenweenie (2012) Photo: Disney
Unlike other Disney remakes, which start out in animation before transitioning to live-action, Tim Burton decided to remake his oddball live-action short film (one of his “after school projects” that kept him busy while animating for Disney) in the form of a feature-length stop-motion animated film. Talk about a curveball! One of his most emotionally resonant and overlooked films,...
- 10/26/2023
- by Drew Taylor
- The Wrap
Pure, unalloyed joy is harder to find in movies than you’d think. Heck, look at our big list of the best feelgood films ever_, which is re-released this week to celebrate its 20th birthday.
After weeks of increasingly elaborate deceptions and the kind of security operation the Stasi would be proud of, Jack Black’s Dewey Finn – the artist formerly known as Ned Schneebly (and even more formerly Schneeeebly) – has secretly used his fraudulent stint as a supply teacher to turn a gang of precocious-but-square kids into a crack team of rock ‘n’ roll delinquents. They’re discovered and Dewey goes back to being burnout loser Dewey – but the kids he’s fired up with a healthy disrespect for anyone over the age of 30 won’t let him drop out like that. They bundle him onto their bus, dash to the gig, and just about make their slot.
It helps that,...
After weeks of increasingly elaborate deceptions and the kind of security operation the Stasi would be proud of, Jack Black’s Dewey Finn – the artist formerly known as Ned Schneebly (and even more formerly Schneeeebly) – has secretly used his fraudulent stint as a supply teacher to turn a gang of precocious-but-square kids into a crack team of rock ‘n’ roll delinquents. They’re discovered and Dewey goes back to being burnout loser Dewey – but the kids he’s fired up with a healthy disrespect for anyone over the age of 30 won’t let him drop out like that. They bundle him onto their bus, dash to the gig, and just about make their slot.
It helps that,...
- 9/8/2023
- by Tom Nicholson
- Empire - Movies
Who’s ready to feel old? School of Rock is celebrating its twentieth anniversary this September with the School of Rock 20th Anniversary Steelbook Blu-ray! Paramount Home Entertainment is pulling out all the stops for this glorious presentation, packing the release with more raised horns than a sold-out Metallica concert at Madison Square Garden!
Initially released in October 2003, Richard Linklater directs School of Rock from a script by Mike White. Jack Black stars in this heartfelt, laugh-out-loud comedy with Joan Cusack, Sarah Silverman, Mike White, Miranda Cosgrove, Rivkah Reyes, and more!
In School of Rock, Black’s struggling musician character, Dewey Finn, poses as a substitute teacher at a prestigious school where he convinces his students to form a rock band for an upcoming Battle of the Bands. Finn doesn’t take long to forge an unbreakable bond with the kids, as their love for rock and roll leads to...
Initially released in October 2003, Richard Linklater directs School of Rock from a script by Mike White. Jack Black stars in this heartfelt, laugh-out-loud comedy with Joan Cusack, Sarah Silverman, Mike White, Miranda Cosgrove, Rivkah Reyes, and more!
In School of Rock, Black’s struggling musician character, Dewey Finn, poses as a substitute teacher at a prestigious school where he convinces his students to form a rock band for an upcoming Battle of the Bands. Finn doesn’t take long to forge an unbreakable bond with the kids, as their love for rock and roll leads to...
- 7/31/2023
- by Steve Seigh
- JoBlo.com
Actor and comedian Dan Aykroyd has had a long and steady career ever since he first began doing improvisational comedy with the famed Second City troupe in both their Chicago and Toronto theaters.
Fame came to Aykoyd when he was hired for what seemed like a low expectations comedy/variety show NBC was beginning for late Saturday evenings. “Saturday Night Live” became a bit of a phenomenon launching all the original “Not Ready for Prime Time Players” (as the cast was called) into stardom. Aykroyd along with Chevy Chase, John Belushi, Gilda Radner, Jane Curtin, Laraine Newman and Garrett Morris suddenly found themselves among the most talked about television stars working in the business.
Aykroyd and Belushi became especially close friends during the series run and began working in films together such as “Neighbors,” “The Blues Brothers” and potentially “Ghostbusters,” but Belushi’s overdose at the age of 33 caused Bill Murray...
Fame came to Aykoyd when he was hired for what seemed like a low expectations comedy/variety show NBC was beginning for late Saturday evenings. “Saturday Night Live” became a bit of a phenomenon launching all the original “Not Ready for Prime Time Players” (as the cast was called) into stardom. Aykroyd along with Chevy Chase, John Belushi, Gilda Radner, Jane Curtin, Laraine Newman and Garrett Morris suddenly found themselves among the most talked about television stars working in the business.
Aykroyd and Belushi became especially close friends during the series run and began working in films together such as “Neighbors,” “The Blues Brothers” and potentially “Ghostbusters,” but Belushi’s overdose at the age of 33 caused Bill Murray...
- 6/24/2023
- by Robert Pius, Misty Holland and Chris Beachum
- Gold Derby
There’s a comfort witnessing characters in a Nicole Holofcener film discuss banal, everyday topics—ones largely absent in cinema. In her latest, You Hurt My Feelings, sisters Beth (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) and Sarah (Michaela Watkins) discuss throwing out old underwear: one does, one doesn’t. Sarah’s husband Mark (Succession’s Arian Moayed) obsesses over moisture-wicking socks. And when Sarah and Beth find themselves stuck standing next to actor Josh Pais (playing himself) after a play, Beth asks how he commutes to the theater each night—turns out he Ubers.
These trademark Holofcener moments are peppered throughout a narrative kicked off when Beth is sent spiraling after she overhears her husband Don (Tobias Menzies) reveal that he doesn’t like her new novel. This news threatens to derail an otherwise loving marriage—a marriage so loving, their son Eliot (Owen Teague) wonders aloud why he often feels like a “third wheel” when with them.
These trademark Holofcener moments are peppered throughout a narrative kicked off when Beth is sent spiraling after she overhears her husband Don (Tobias Menzies) reveal that he doesn’t like her new novel. This news threatens to derail an otherwise loving marriage—a marriage so loving, their son Eliot (Owen Teague) wonders aloud why he often feels like a “third wheel” when with them.
- 5/23/2023
- by Caleb Hammond
- The Film Stage
Over the years, dozens of actors have accomplished the feat of being Emmy-nominated in one guest category for multiple shows, but only one has been recognized in this manner for playing a single character. This special case involved Shelley Long, who received comedic notices for playing Diane Chambers on both “Cheers” (1993) and “Frasier” (1996). After more than a quarter century of standing alone in this distinction, she could soon be joined by Carrie Preston, who won the 2013 Best Drama Guest Actress award as eccentric lawyer Elsbeth Tascioni on “The Good Wife” and is now seeking a bookend trophy for its Paramount Plus spinoff, “The Good Fight.”
See‘The Good Fight’ finale: From WGA nominee to Emmy contender?
Preston won her first Emmy for her seventh of 14 “Good Wife” appearances, which were spread over six of the CBS show’s seven seasons. By the time “The Good Fight” ended its six-year run...
See‘The Good Fight’ finale: From WGA nominee to Emmy contender?
Preston won her first Emmy for her seventh of 14 “Good Wife” appearances, which were spread over six of the CBS show’s seven seasons. By the time “The Good Fight” ended its six-year run...
- 5/15/2023
- by Matthew Stewart
- Gold Derby
John Cameron Mitchell was originally cast in John Hughes’ “The Breakfast Club,” but that incarnation of the movie never happened due to lack of funding, the actor told TheWrap.
The actor, best known for his role in the 2001 cult classic “Hedwig and the Angry Inch,” plays a sinister step-uncle to Jemima Kirke and Nico Tortorella’s characters in the new Apple TV+ series “City on Fire.” He had the occasion to revisit his brush with the Brat Pack when he and Molly Ringwald, who played rich girl Claire Standish in the ’80s high school classic, were both on the same flight.
“I was flying from New York and I was on the plane with Molly Ringwald, who was off to do ‘Riverdale,” he said. “So we we bonded a lot and talked about the old days. And I told her, actually, we had met once before. I said, ‘Molly, you know,...
The actor, best known for his role in the 2001 cult classic “Hedwig and the Angry Inch,” plays a sinister step-uncle to Jemima Kirke and Nico Tortorella’s characters in the new Apple TV+ series “City on Fire.” He had the occasion to revisit his brush with the Brat Pack when he and Molly Ringwald, who played rich girl Claire Standish in the ’80s high school classic, were both on the same flight.
“I was flying from New York and I was on the plane with Molly Ringwald, who was off to do ‘Riverdale,” he said. “So we we bonded a lot and talked about the old days. And I told her, actually, we had met once before. I said, ‘Molly, you know,...
- 5/10/2023
- by Sharon Knolle
- The Wrap
The comedy guest Emmy categories have been “Saturday Night Live’s” domain since the sketch series was first allowed to compete there in 2009. It has won 14 awards since then, seven in each category, but last year was one of the rare ones in which “SNL” failed to win either award — and wasn’t even nominated for one of them. Can it rebound this year?
2022 marked just the fourth time “SNL” went home empty-handed in guest after Nathan Lane took Best Comedy Guest Actor for “Only Murders in the Building,” winning his first Primetime Emmy in seven bids, and “Hacks'” Laurie Metcalf nabbed Best Comedy Guest Actress for her first Emmy in 28 years. The first instance occurred in 2013 when the awards went to Bob Newhart (“The Big Bang Theory”) and Melissa Leo (“Louie”) prevailed, with the former winning his long overdue inaugural Emmy. In 2015, Bradley Whitford (“Transparent”) and Joan Cusack (“Shameless”) prevailed,...
2022 marked just the fourth time “SNL” went home empty-handed in guest after Nathan Lane took Best Comedy Guest Actor for “Only Murders in the Building,” winning his first Primetime Emmy in seven bids, and “Hacks'” Laurie Metcalf nabbed Best Comedy Guest Actress for her first Emmy in 28 years. The first instance occurred in 2013 when the awards went to Bob Newhart (“The Big Bang Theory”) and Melissa Leo (“Louie”) prevailed, with the former winning his long overdue inaugural Emmy. In 2015, Bradley Whitford (“Transparent”) and Joan Cusack (“Shameless”) prevailed,...
- 4/12/2023
- by Joyce Eng
- Gold Derby
Jack Black will rock on.
Black revealed plans for a 20-year School of Rock reunion in a recent Entertainment Tonight interview promoting The Super Mario Bros. Movie. But he didn’t specify whether the reunion would be a film, a special, or simply a get-together.
“All those kids — dig this — they were 10 years old when we made that movie and now they’re all, like, 30,” Black said. “We’re gonna get together and have a 20-year anniversary. We like to jam. I’m looking forward to seeing all of the grownups from School of Rock.”
Black promised to share photos and videos of any reunion on social media later this year.
The 2003 School of Rock film saw substitute teacher Dewey Finn (played by Black) shape up a rag-tag group of fifth graders into an ensemble that would challenge at a local Battle of the Bands. The film grossed more than...
Black revealed plans for a 20-year School of Rock reunion in a recent Entertainment Tonight interview promoting The Super Mario Bros. Movie. But he didn’t specify whether the reunion would be a film, a special, or simply a get-together.
“All those kids — dig this — they were 10 years old when we made that movie and now they’re all, like, 30,” Black said. “We’re gonna get together and have a 20-year anniversary. We like to jam. I’m looking forward to seeing all of the grownups from School of Rock.”
Black promised to share photos and videos of any reunion on social media later this year.
The 2003 School of Rock film saw substitute teacher Dewey Finn (played by Black) shape up a rag-tag group of fifth graders into an ensemble that would challenge at a local Battle of the Bands. The film grossed more than...
- 4/6/2023
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
Jack Black confirmed in a recent interview with Entertainment Tonight that he’s planning to reunite with his younger “School of Rock” co-stars later this year to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the comedy’s release. Various cast members have reunited over the years, but it sounds like Black is plotting an epic reunion to celebrate 20 years of “School of Rock.”
“All those kids — dig this — they were 10 years old when we made that movie and now they’re all, like, 30,” Black said. “We’re gonna get together and have a 20-year anniversary. We like to jam. I’m looking forward to seeing all of the grownups from ‘School of Rock.'”
Black added that he will “100 percent” use social media to upload photos and videos from the upcoming reunion. “School Rock,” directed by Richard Linklater and written by “The White Lotus” creator Mike White, starred Black as Dewey Finn,...
“All those kids — dig this — they were 10 years old when we made that movie and now they’re all, like, 30,” Black said. “We’re gonna get together and have a 20-year anniversary. We like to jam. I’m looking forward to seeing all of the grownups from ‘School of Rock.'”
Black added that he will “100 percent” use social media to upload photos and videos from the upcoming reunion. “School Rock,” directed by Richard Linklater and written by “The White Lotus” creator Mike White, starred Black as Dewey Finn,...
- 4/5/2023
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
Up Here is one of the most sincere musical television series to come along in a while.
It's based on the 2015 musical "Up Here" by husband-and-wife team Robert Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez.
We're all nostalgic for the 1990s now, so here's a throwback to the rom-coms of the era. It's in no way trying to reinvent the genre -- let's call it an homage.
Even the general conceit that the main characters have imaginary people living in their heads that they converse with regularly is not so unique. It's not far off from Herman's Head, Inside Out, or the "Dream Ghosts" sequence from Crazy Ex-Girlfriend.
There are some Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist vibes going on, too.
The original musical came out in 2015 and was described as Annie Hall meets Cirque Du Soleil.
Lopez and Anderson-Lopez are responsible for the songs here, and they are overall lovely, fun, and funny. Robert Lopez is an Egot winner,...
It's based on the 2015 musical "Up Here" by husband-and-wife team Robert Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez.
We're all nostalgic for the 1990s now, so here's a throwback to the rom-coms of the era. It's in no way trying to reinvent the genre -- let's call it an homage.
Even the general conceit that the main characters have imaginary people living in their heads that they converse with regularly is not so unique. It's not far off from Herman's Head, Inside Out, or the "Dream Ghosts" sequence from Crazy Ex-Girlfriend.
There are some Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist vibes going on, too.
The original musical came out in 2015 and was described as Annie Hall meets Cirque Du Soleil.
Lopez and Anderson-Lopez are responsible for the songs here, and they are overall lovely, fun, and funny. Robert Lopez is an Egot winner,...
- 3/16/2023
- by Mary Littlejohn
- TVfanatic
The '85/'86 year was a weird, weird season of "Saturday Night Live," a show that had any number of bad ones. SNL has remained an institution, curiously even through a regular series of slumps and mistakes. Try watching a complete episode during the daylight hours, and one will find a lot of lulls, bad ideas, and weird characters that never caught on. Throughout, however, enough talented comedians and sketches eked their way through to remain entrenched in the consciousness. Plus, celebrities and musical acts seemingly never lost their appetite for guest hosting, often drawing in big crowds just for their star appeal.
The show's 11th season was the first without its co-creator and star producer Lorne Michaels behind the scenes. He was replaced by NBC's Sports executive Dick Ebersol, and he seemingly didn't know what he was doing when it came to comedy. Ebersol once asked NBC if...
The show's 11th season was the first without its co-creator and star producer Lorne Michaels behind the scenes. He was replaced by NBC's Sports executive Dick Ebersol, and he seemingly didn't know what he was doing when it came to comedy. Ebersol once asked NBC if...
- 3/12/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Move over, Tom Cruise! The “Top Gun: Maverick” legend wasn’t the only star Hollywood’s latest group of Oscar contenders were excited about seeing at Monday’s nominees luncheon.
“The Banshees of Inisherin” stars Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson gushed over meeting Paul Mescal (“Aftersun”). “I spent a long time chatting with him,” Gleeson told me after the annual luncheon at the Beverly Hilton.
In fact, Gleeson texted Mescal after the nominations were announced in January. “I had to ask my son Domhnall for his number. I was very proud of [Mescal],” Gleeson said.
Earlier in the day, Mescal told me what it was like to receive the text. “He’s an idol of mine,” he said. “He was just incredibly generous and was like, ‘We’re gonna make this a fun month.’ That was one of those crazy things.”
Farrell said he unsuccessfully tried to get an email address...
“The Banshees of Inisherin” stars Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson gushed over meeting Paul Mescal (“Aftersun”). “I spent a long time chatting with him,” Gleeson told me after the annual luncheon at the Beverly Hilton.
In fact, Gleeson texted Mescal after the nominations were announced in January. “I had to ask my son Domhnall for his number. I was very proud of [Mescal],” Gleeson said.
Earlier in the day, Mescal told me what it was like to receive the text. “He’s an idol of mine,” he said. “He was just incredibly generous and was like, ‘We’re gonna make this a fun month.’ That was one of those crazy things.”
Farrell said he unsuccessfully tried to get an email address...
- 2/15/2023
- by Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
Step back into the 1980s with some of our favorite rom-coms from the decade. Nicolas Cage in “Valley Girl” and “Moonstruck,” Molly Ringwald looking for love in high school, and, of course, Princess Buttercup and her devoted Westley. Below we round up some of the best 80s romantic comedies.
When Harry Met Sally…
Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal go from friends to lovers to … well, panic, and finally blissful commitment in this comedy written by Nora Ephron and directed by Rob Reiner. The deli scene is, of course, a classic.
Coming to America
Prince Akeem (Eddie Murphy) tries to find the perfect American bride who doesn’t care that he’s African royalty in this hilarious comedy where he plays multiple parts. Always worth a rewatch.
Pretty in Pink
What’s the most important love affair in this John Hughes-penned movie? Have-not Andie (Molly Ringwald) and rich boy Blane...
When Harry Met Sally…
Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal go from friends to lovers to … well, panic, and finally blissful commitment in this comedy written by Nora Ephron and directed by Rob Reiner. The deli scene is, of course, a classic.
Coming to America
Prince Akeem (Eddie Murphy) tries to find the perfect American bride who doesn’t care that he’s African royalty in this hilarious comedy where he plays multiple parts. Always worth a rewatch.
Pretty in Pink
What’s the most important love affair in this John Hughes-penned movie? Have-not Andie (Molly Ringwald) and rich boy Blane...
- 2/14/2023
- by Sharon Knolle
- The Wrap
The Stevie Nicks song “Edge of Seventeen” played an integral part in the 2003 movie School of Rock. When the popular film became a Broadway musical, the Fleetwood Mac singer once surprised an audience by joining the cast on stage. Here’s what Nicks said about her Broadway debut and how she felt about Jack Black and Joan Cusack singing her famous song in the film.
Stevie Nicks | Matthew Eisman/Getty Images The Stevie Nicks song ‘Edge of Seventeen’ is featured in the movie ‘School of Rock’
The 2003 movie School of Rock heavily features a song by Stevie Nicks from her 1981 solo album, Bella Donna.
In a memorable scene from the film, Jack Black’s character convinced Principal Mullins, portrayed by Joan Cusack, to break the rules and allow his class to go on a field trip. He took her to a bar and played the Stevie Nicks song “Edge of Seventeen” on the jukebox.
Stevie Nicks | Matthew Eisman/Getty Images The Stevie Nicks song ‘Edge of Seventeen’ is featured in the movie ‘School of Rock’
The 2003 movie School of Rock heavily features a song by Stevie Nicks from her 1981 solo album, Bella Donna.
In a memorable scene from the film, Jack Black’s character convinced Principal Mullins, portrayed by Joan Cusack, to break the rules and allow his class to go on a field trip. He took her to a bar and played the Stevie Nicks song “Edge of Seventeen” on the jukebox.
- 2/10/2023
- by Grace Turney
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Just hours after “The Bear” star Jeremy Allen White won his first career Golden Globe on Tuesday night, he found himself nominated at the Screen Actors Guild Awards on Wednesday morning. Should he prevail there, too, White would claim the exact same Best Comedy Actor SAG trophy that William H. Macy won three times for “Shameless” in 2015, 2017 and 2018. It’d be the ultimate poetic justice for TV fans, of course, as Macy and White played an estranged father and son, Frank Gallagher and Lip Gallagher, on the Showtime dramedy for 11 years.
There are more similarities between “The Bear” and “Shameless” than you might realize at first glance. Both shows are dark comedies that take place in Chicago, Illinois and center on protagonists dealing with troubling family issues. On “The Bear,” White plays renowned chef Carmen “Carmy” Berzatto, who returns home after his brother commits suicide. And on “Shameless,” the Gallagher...
There are more similarities between “The Bear” and “Shameless” than you might realize at first glance. Both shows are dark comedies that take place in Chicago, Illinois and center on protagonists dealing with troubling family issues. On “The Bear,” White plays renowned chef Carmen “Carmy” Berzatto, who returns home after his brother commits suicide. And on “Shameless,” the Gallagher...
- 1/13/2023
- by Marcus James Dixon
- Gold Derby
One of Harrison Ford's most endearing qualities as a movie star is his easygoing, improvisatory genius. Everyone who's worked with him praises his instincts to fix a scene that's missing a certain, ineffable something. Occasionally, these adjustments arise out of necessity (e.g. the debilitating fever that turned a prolonged fight with a swordsman in "Raiders of the Lost Ark" into a one-and-done gunshot), but generally, he's just always thinking about how to make a good scene great, or a great scene unforgettable.
These reflexes are comedic in nature. Ford's rugged heroes possess a roll-with-the-punches durability that allows them to smirk in the face of danger. It's a gift Ford shares with greats like Cary Grant and Humphrey Bogart. You want to see these guys get up to their necks in peril just to see how they work their way out of it. But unlike Grant and Bogart, Ford...
These reflexes are comedic in nature. Ford's rugged heroes possess a roll-with-the-punches durability that allows them to smirk in the face of danger. It's a gift Ford shares with greats like Cary Grant and Humphrey Bogart. You want to see these guys get up to their necks in peril just to see how they work their way out of it. But unlike Grant and Bogart, Ford...
- 12/31/2022
- by Jeremy Smith
- Slash Film
Harrison Ford didn't exactly need a hit in 1989 when he signed on for "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade," but his agent was probably overjoyed that he was returning to the blockbuster franchise that broadened his appeal beyond "Star Wars." Though the character of Indiana Jones was not tailor made for Ford (Tom Selleck had been offered the role first), he'd imbued the whip-cracking archaeologist with the same roguish, seat-of-his-pants charm that made Han Solo such a dashing delight. Indy is certainly capable, but not overly confident. He's accident prone. He's constantly improvising his way out of peril, and, in doing so, piles more rough mileage on that middle-aged frame.
Moviegoers lined up to see Ford as Han and Indy, but they were less enthusiastic about his dramatic turns. He'd scored a surprise hit as a Philadelphia cop hiding out in Amish country in Peter Weir's "Witness," but found...
Moviegoers lined up to see Ford as Han and Indy, but they were less enthusiastic about his dramatic turns. He'd scored a surprise hit as a Philadelphia cop hiding out in Amish country in Peter Weir's "Witness," but found...
- 12/28/2022
- by Jeremy Smith
- Slash Film
With 2010's "Toy Story 3," Pixar and director Lee Unkrich were faced with punishingly high expectations. Besides the first two entries in the series being certified modern animated classics, there was also the question of purpose. For Pixar, a production company known at the time for its refusal to do sequels unless there was a story to justify one, to do a sequel over a decade after the previous entry, something good must have been in store.
The original "Toy Story," which was released in 1995, changed animation forever. Its 1999 sequel -- a moving allegory for the stages of life -- managed somehow to be even better. A follow-up couldn't simply take viewers back to the world of toy cowboy Woody (Tom Hanks) and toy astronaut Buzz (Tim Allen). Nor could it take the eventual route of "The Incredibles 2," which ignored the gap in time between movies. The series was always surprisingly deep,...
The original "Toy Story," which was released in 1995, changed animation forever. Its 1999 sequel -- a moving allegory for the stages of life -- managed somehow to be even better. A follow-up couldn't simply take viewers back to the world of toy cowboy Woody (Tom Hanks) and toy astronaut Buzz (Tim Allen). Nor could it take the eventual route of "The Incredibles 2," which ignored the gap in time between movies. The series was always surprisingly deep,...
- 12/19/2022
- by Anthony Crislip
- Slash Film
Whether you are pro-New Year's resolution or would much rather just see where 2023 takes you in the coming months, January will still bring with it a little bit of change. The first month of the year's list of titles set to make a disappearance from Netflix is relatively short this time around. Still, there are some real gems here — albeit some pretty campy ones — that we have to say our goodbyes to. And while we're probably all busy trying to squeeze in as many holiday-centric movies by the year's end (anyone want to talk about "Falling for Christmas"?), you might also want to try and squeeze in a couple of the things on this list in-between viewings of "Home Alone" and "Die Hard." Whether over-the-top action films or catty reality shows are your preferred guilty pleasure, there's something here for everyone to lament as we make our way into another year.
- 12/14/2022
- by Miyako Pleines
- Slash 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
Upon reflection, there couldn't be two '90s Hollywood studio films that are more opposite than Barry Sonnenfeld's "Addams Family Values" and Robert Zemeckis' "Forrest Gump." Both released in the mid-1990s (although the novel "Forrest Gump" was released a decade before making it to the big screen), the two films might represent the ends of an anarchist spectrum. On the one hand, the Addams family is a creepy bunch of murderers who live in a strange haunted mansion, and who take delight in the misery of others. They live far out on the fringe and they love it. They spray blood on people, pour boiling oil on Christmas carolers, and, in the famous climax of "Values," kill off all the counselors at a summer camp.
"Forrest Gump," meanwhile, is a cube of American cornpone about the Rockwellian nature of old American institutions. "Forrest Gump" argues that the inside was the place to be,...
"Forrest Gump," meanwhile, is a cube of American cornpone about the Rockwellian nature of old American institutions. "Forrest Gump" argues that the inside was the place to be,...
- 12/6/2022
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Ma-li-bu Bar-bie!
It’s already the end of November, but we had a wild ride this month discussing the dream-like pastel world of Jennifer Reeder’s women-centric Knives and Skin and the 25th-anniversary fascist machismo world of Paul Verhoeven’s Starship Troopers. Then last week we made our second foray into animated fare (after ParaNorman) with Satoshi Kon‘s stunning first film, Perfect Blue. This week, in celebration of Thanksgiving and Netflix’s release of Wednesday (review), we’re visiting the Addamses in Barry Sonnenfeld‘s better-than-the-original sequel Addams Family Values (1993)!
In the film, Gomez (Raul Julia) and Morticia (Anjelica Huston) celebrate the birth of their child Pubert (Kaitlyn and Kristen Hooper), while black widow serial killer Debbie Jellinsky (Joan Cusack) marries Fester Addams (Christopher Lloyd) with the intent to murder him for his inheritance. Plus, teenagers Wednesday (Christina Ricci) and Pugsley (Jimmy Workman) are sent to a summer camp...
It’s already the end of November, but we had a wild ride this month discussing the dream-like pastel world of Jennifer Reeder’s women-centric Knives and Skin and the 25th-anniversary fascist machismo world of Paul Verhoeven’s Starship Troopers. Then last week we made our second foray into animated fare (after ParaNorman) with Satoshi Kon‘s stunning first film, Perfect Blue. This week, in celebration of Thanksgiving and Netflix’s release of Wednesday (review), we’re visiting the Addamses in Barry Sonnenfeld‘s better-than-the-original sequel Addams Family Values (1993)!
In the film, Gomez (Raul Julia) and Morticia (Anjelica Huston) celebrate the birth of their child Pubert (Kaitlyn and Kristen Hooper), while black widow serial killer Debbie Jellinsky (Joan Cusack) marries Fester Addams (Christopher Lloyd) with the intent to murder him for his inheritance. Plus, teenagers Wednesday (Christina Ricci) and Pugsley (Jimmy Workman) are sent to a summer camp...
- 11/28/2022
- by Trace Thurman
- bloody-disgusting.com
At long last, “Wednesday,” which stars Jenna Ortega of “X” and “Scream” fame, is streaming on Netflix. Ortega takes over the role from iconic ’90s Wednesday Christina Ricci, who so memorably burned down a Thanksgiving play in “Addams Family Values.”
Ricci appears as a different character in the series from Tim Burton and “Smallville” co-creators Alfred Gough and Miles Millar, while Catherine Zeta-Jones and Luis Guzman take over as Morticia and Gomez Addams.
Here’s where to rewatch the ’90s films that starred Anjelica Huston, Raúl Julia and Christopher Lloyd, and the two recent animated films. And, if you insist on seeking it out, the notorious direct-to-dvd “Addams Family Reunion,” starring Tim Curry and Daryl Hannah.
Also Read:
‘Wednesday’ Review: Jenna Ortega Delightfully Seethes in Netflix’s Moody YA Mystery The Addams Family (1991) Paramount Pictures
Cara mia! Barry Sonnenfeld’s delightful, droll take on the cartoon characters created by Chas Addams...
Ricci appears as a different character in the series from Tim Burton and “Smallville” co-creators Alfred Gough and Miles Millar, while Catherine Zeta-Jones and Luis Guzman take over as Morticia and Gomez Addams.
Here’s where to rewatch the ’90s films that starred Anjelica Huston, Raúl Julia and Christopher Lloyd, and the two recent animated films. And, if you insist on seeking it out, the notorious direct-to-dvd “Addams Family Reunion,” starring Tim Curry and Daryl Hannah.
Also Read:
‘Wednesday’ Review: Jenna Ortega Delightfully Seethes in Netflix’s Moody YA Mystery The Addams Family (1991) Paramount Pictures
Cara mia! Barry Sonnenfeld’s delightful, droll take on the cartoon characters created by Chas Addams...
- 11/25/2022
- by Sharon Knolle
- The Wrap
Well ladies and gentlemen, we’re basically two-thirds of the way through October, and you know what that means. It means the Season of the Witch is upon us. All Hallows’ Eve. The time when death and dismemberment and ghosts and goblins and monsters of all types go mainstream, and every product suddenly grows pumpkin spice crazy. I swear I saw a can of pumpkin spice insect repellant in the supermarket the other day. Or maybe that was just a hallucination.
Another thing we have come to count on during Halloween season is horror movies, of course – but not just the “Halloween” or “Friday the 13th” or “A Nightmare on Elm Street” variety. I’m talking about the films that blend scares and laughs in almost equal measure, that simultaneously test our nerves and tickle our funny bone. Fright and mirth can coexist just fine, we’ve come to learn.
Another thing we have come to count on during Halloween season is horror movies, of course – but not just the “Halloween” or “Friday the 13th” or “A Nightmare on Elm Street” variety. I’m talking about the films that blend scares and laughs in almost equal measure, that simultaneously test our nerves and tickle our funny bone. Fright and mirth can coexist just fine, we’ve come to learn.
- 10/20/2022
- by Ray Richmond
- Gold Derby
Sigourney Weaver is ready to revisit “Working Girl” more than 35 years later.
The 1988 workplace comedy starred Weaver as Katharine, a cutthroat boss who steals her assistant Jess’ (Melanie Griffith) ideas. After she is laid up following a ski accident, Jess takes Katharine’s place at work and falls in love with a client played by Harrison Ford. The film landed six Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, Best Actress for Griffith, and Best Supporting Actress nods for Weaver and co-star Joan Cusack.
“Only Murders in the Building” star Selena Gomez confirmed earlier this year that she is producing a reboot of the film, with Deadline reporting it will likely be a Hulu release through 20th Century. Ilana Pena is set to write the script, and Gomez is likely also starring as Jess.
“Go for it,” Weaver told The Hollywood Reporter of Gomez’s upcoming reimagining. “I think it’s a great...
The 1988 workplace comedy starred Weaver as Katharine, a cutthroat boss who steals her assistant Jess’ (Melanie Griffith) ideas. After she is laid up following a ski accident, Jess takes Katharine’s place at work and falls in love with a client played by Harrison Ford. The film landed six Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, Best Actress for Griffith, and Best Supporting Actress nods for Weaver and co-star Joan Cusack.
“Only Murders in the Building” star Selena Gomez confirmed earlier this year that she is producing a reboot of the film, with Deadline reporting it will likely be a Hulu release through 20th Century. Ilana Pena is set to write the script, and Gomez is likely also starring as Jess.
“Go for it,” Weaver told The Hollywood Reporter of Gomez’s upcoming reimagining. “I think it’s a great...
- 10/19/2022
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Looking for something new to watch on Netflix? We’ve got you covered. October brings with it a trio of high-profile new movies coming to Netflix, all of the bone-chilling variety to differing degrees. But if you’re not in the mood for something spooky, there are a number of other excellent films newly streaming on Netflix this month. Whether you’re up for a historical epic, a classic rom-com or a true crime drama, there’s a little something for everyone.
Check out our list of the best new movies on Netflix in October below.
Mr. and Mrs. Smith Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie in “Mr. and Mrs. Smith” (20th Century Fox)
Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie are married assassins – unbeknownst to each other – in “Mr. and Mrs. Smith.” The 2005 action comedy boasts a smart premise, as Pitt and Jolie play a married couple who are unaware that each...
Check out our list of the best new movies on Netflix in October below.
Mr. and Mrs. Smith Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie in “Mr. and Mrs. Smith” (20th Century Fox)
Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie are married assassins – unbeknownst to each other – in “Mr. and Mrs. Smith.” The 2005 action comedy boasts a smart premise, as Pitt and Jolie play a married couple who are unaware that each...
- 10/16/2022
- by Adam Chitwood
- The Wrap
In the midst of the 1997 fall movie season, “Boogie Nights” came out of nowhere to be one of the most acclaimed and talked-about films of the year. The biggest name in its ensemble cast was Burt Reynolds, who hadn’t been in a hit film or television series in years. The movie was directed by the virtually unknown Paul Thomas Anderson, whose sole credit “Hard Eight” had been essentially dumped into theaters the previous February. And a narrative about the rise and fall of a porn start that ran a long two-and-a-half hours didn’t exactly seem like a slam dunk production for critics or at the box office.
However, the film premiered to a wave of enthusiasm at the Toronto Film Festival and critical raves upon its limited release in October 1997. And the rest is now history. Read on for our appreciation of the “Boogie Nights” 25th anniversary.
At the time,...
However, the film premiered to a wave of enthusiasm at the Toronto Film Festival and critical raves upon its limited release in October 1997. And the rest is now history. Read on for our appreciation of the “Boogie Nights” 25th anniversary.
At the time,...
- 10/14/2022
- by Brian Rowe
- Gold Derby
We realize the site has been eerily quiet this past month. But as we meet backstage to rectify, here are a dozen highlights you might have missed these past two months...
A dozen highlights
• Michelle Williams' Ocar campaign Nathaniel on the pundit freakout of her lead campaign
• Emmys in Review Nathaniel shares highlights from TV's big night
• Don't Worry Darling Glenn reviewed the film that's on everyone's lips albeit for the wrong reasons
• Smackdown 1997 Special guests have a lively discussion on Julianne Moore, Joan Cusack, Kim Basinger and more to celebrate a great Oscar year
• Almost There Cláudio revisited James Dean's iconic work in Rebel Without a Cause
• Ranking: Joanne & Paul to honor "The Last Movie Stars" limited series, Cláudio watched all of the Newman & Woodward collaborations
• Goddamn Asura Juan Carlos interviews the director of Taiwan's Oscar submission
• Film Critic & The Common Man Ben shares what he learned launching...
A dozen highlights
• Michelle Williams' Ocar campaign Nathaniel on the pundit freakout of her lead campaign
• Emmys in Review Nathaniel shares highlights from TV's big night
• Don't Worry Darling Glenn reviewed the film that's on everyone's lips albeit for the wrong reasons
• Smackdown 1997 Special guests have a lively discussion on Julianne Moore, Joan Cusack, Kim Basinger and more to celebrate a great Oscar year
• Almost There Cláudio revisited James Dean's iconic work in Rebel Without a Cause
• Ranking: Joanne & Paul to honor "The Last Movie Stars" limited series, Cláudio watched all of the Newman & Woodward collaborations
• Goddamn Asura Juan Carlos interviews the director of Taiwan's Oscar submission
• Film Critic & The Common Man Ben shares what he learned launching...
- 10/2/2022
- by NATHANIEL R
- FilmExperience
Many gangland parodies fall flat, but not Jonathan Demme’s marvelous combo of high spirits and murder. Mafia spouse Angela de Marco’s story is goofy comedy with an edge of economic reality: how does one newly-impoverished New Yawk dame make a living for her orphaned son, while avoiding the adulterous attentions of the Big Boss who had her husband iced? Michelle Pfeiffer came into her own, Dean Stockwell has his best adult role and Matthew Modine is uniquely charming as an amorous FBI agent. The tonal balance is abetted by a supporting performances that go every which way: Mercedes Ruehl, Alec Baldwin, Oliver Platt and a slew of Demme regulars. Plus a music score by David Byrne. The disc features three new video interviews.
Married to the Mob
Blu-ray
Fun City Editions
1988 / Color / 1:85 widescreen / 104 min. / Street Date September 27, 2022 / Available from Vinegar Syndrome / 39.98
Starring: Michelle Pfeiffer, Matthew Modine, Dean Stockwell,...
Married to the Mob
Blu-ray
Fun City Editions
1988 / Color / 1:85 widescreen / 104 min. / Street Date September 27, 2022 / Available from Vinegar Syndrome / 39.98
Starring: Michelle Pfeiffer, Matthew Modine, Dean Stockwell,...
- 9/27/2022
- by Glenn Erickson
- Trailers from Hell
Netflix recently announced their lineup for their 2022 "Netflix and Chills" annual Halloween celebration, and noticeably absent from the list was the anticipated "Wednesday" series from Tim Burton, starring Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams. The series is expected to debut sometime in the fall of 2022, but without it on the schedule, it seems as if audiences will have to wait just a little while longer to see the newest live-action interpretation of Charles Addams' beloved creation. First appearing as a comic strip in 1938, "The Addams Family" has been adapted to television, film, animation, video games, comic books, a Broadway musical, and countless items of merchandise. Regardless of age or interest, there's a form of "The Addams Family" for everyone.
As groundbreaking as the family has been for alternative subcultures and sardonic humor, Wednesday Addams has been a seminal role model for unconventional girls for generations. If you've ever worn black lipstick,...
As groundbreaking as the family has been for alternative subcultures and sardonic humor, Wednesday Addams has been a seminal role model for unconventional girls for generations. If you've ever worn black lipstick,...
- 9/11/2022
- by BJ Colangelo
- Slash Film
Exclusive: Playwright Theresa Rebeck, who created the stage musical-themed NBC series Smash, has joined the real-life Broadway-bound musical adaptation of the 1988 film comedy Working Girl, producers announced today.
Rebeck will write the book of the musical, said producers Robyn Goodman and Josh Fiedler of Aged In Wood Productions and Kumiko Yoshii.
While Rebeck has had four plays produced on Broadway, Working Girl would mark her Broadway debut as a book writer for a musical. As previously announced, Cyndi Lauper is writing the music and lyrics, and Christopher Ashley will direct.
“Smash ignited my love of musical theater and I’ve been eager to find the right musical project since then,” Rebeck said in a statement. “I couldn’t have dreamed up a better fit than Working Girl, or better collaborators than Cyndi, Chris and this team. I can’t wait for audiences to discover...
Rebeck will write the book of the musical, said producers Robyn Goodman and Josh Fiedler of Aged In Wood Productions and Kumiko Yoshii.
While Rebeck has had four plays produced on Broadway, Working Girl would mark her Broadway debut as a book writer for a musical. As previously announced, Cyndi Lauper is writing the music and lyrics, and Christopher Ashley will direct.
“Smash ignited my love of musical theater and I’ve been eager to find the right musical project since then,” Rebeck said in a statement. “I couldn’t have dreamed up a better fit than Working Girl, or better collaborators than Cyndi, Chris and this team. I can’t wait for audiences to discover...
- 8/9/2022
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Selena Gomez is reviving the 1980s classic "Working Girl," Deadline exclusively reported on Aug. 2. According to the publication, the 30-year-old "Only Murders in the Building" star is in final negotiations to produce the upcoming reboot, which will likely debut on Hulu. No other details regarding the plot, premiere date, or cast have been revealed, but Ilana Peña ("Diary of a Future President" and "Crazy Ex-Girlfriend") has been tapped to adapt the script.
The original 1988 romantic comedy starred Melanie Griffith (Tess McGill), Harrison Ford (Jack Trainer), Sigourney Weaver (Katharine Parker), Alec Baldwin (Mick Dugan), and Joan Cusack (Cyn). It follows a secretary, played by Griffith's Tess, who assumes her boss's identity when he is out sick with a broken leg after he steals one of her ideas. The film won an Oscar for best original song for "Let the River Run" by Carly Simon and scored six nominations for best picture,...
The original 1988 romantic comedy starred Melanie Griffith (Tess McGill), Harrison Ford (Jack Trainer), Sigourney Weaver (Katharine Parker), Alec Baldwin (Mick Dugan), and Joan Cusack (Cyn). It follows a secretary, played by Griffith's Tess, who assumes her boss's identity when he is out sick with a broken leg after he steals one of her ideas. The film won an Oscar for best original song for "Let the River Run" by Carly Simon and scored six nominations for best picture,...
- 8/2/2022
- by Monica Sisavat
- Popsugar.com
Selena Gomez is in final negotiations to produce a remake of “Working Girl,” the 1988 Mike Nichols comedy, that 20th Century Studios is developing, an individual with knowledge of the project told TheWrap.
Ilana Pena is writing the script for the rebooted property, and it’s likely that the project wound wind up on Hulu.
Specific plot details for the reboot are being kept under wraps, but the original film starred Melanie Griffith, Harrison Ford, Sigourney Weaver and Joan Cusack, and the film told the story of a secretary who pretends she has her boss’ job after her boss stole her idea and is on the shelf with a broken leg.
Also Read:
Selena Gomez Becomes Third Latina to Get Producer Emmy Nomination
“Working Girl” was nominated for six Oscars, including for Best Picture, Best Director and for Griffith, Weaver and Cusack in the acting categories, and it won one for...
Ilana Pena is writing the script for the rebooted property, and it’s likely that the project wound wind up on Hulu.
Specific plot details for the reboot are being kept under wraps, but the original film starred Melanie Griffith, Harrison Ford, Sigourney Weaver and Joan Cusack, and the film told the story of a secretary who pretends she has her boss’ job after her boss stole her idea and is on the shelf with a broken leg.
Also Read:
Selena Gomez Becomes Third Latina to Get Producer Emmy Nomination
“Working Girl” was nominated for six Oscars, including for Best Picture, Best Director and for Griffith, Weaver and Cusack in the acting categories, and it won one for...
- 8/2/2022
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
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