When “Star Wars: Episode I — The Phantom Menace” debuted on May 19, 1999, few movies before (or since) were greeted with more fevered anticipation. Not only was the movie the first new “Star Wars” movie in a generation, but it was touted as the first of a prequel trilogy charting the tragedy of Anakin Skywalker, the Jedi Knight fated to turn to the dark side as Darth Vader.
Despite the breathless build up, by the end of that summer, the near-universal consensus was that “The Phantom Menace” was, at best, a colossal disappointment and, at worst, a calamitous embarrassment. Some blamed the decision by George Lucas — directing for the first time since 1977’s “A New Hope” — to start the story with a precocious 9-year-old Anakin (Jake Lloyd). Others railed against the slapstick antics and pidgin English of Jar Jar Binks (Ahmed Best), hyped as the first-ever CG main character in a live-action movie.
Despite the breathless build up, by the end of that summer, the near-universal consensus was that “The Phantom Menace” was, at best, a colossal disappointment and, at worst, a calamitous embarrassment. Some blamed the decision by George Lucas — directing for the first time since 1977’s “A New Hope” — to start the story with a precocious 9-year-old Anakin (Jake Lloyd). Others railed against the slapstick antics and pidgin English of Jar Jar Binks (Ahmed Best), hyped as the first-ever CG main character in a live-action movie.
- 5/11/2024
- by Adam B. Vary, Angelique Jackson and Katcy Stephan
- Variety Film + TV
Update: After this story was published, the “Origin” Twitter account was deleted.
Previously: After the release of her latest film “Origin,” director Ava DuVernay was vocal about her disappointment that the movie failed to garner widespread attention or awards buzz. Now, the X/Twitter account for “Origin” is taking aim at the distributor Neon, calling out the company for not inviting the filmmakers to its Oscar party.
Quote-tweeting a photo from the party, the account posted one day after the Academy Awards: “Is it odd that the filmmakers of Neon’s current film in theaters weren’t invited to this Neon celebration? Nope. Standard operating procedure for [founder Tom] Quinn and team. That’s how Neon rolls. More on this later.”
The event was hosted at the Hollywood Athletic Club by Neon, which touted its Oscar win for “Anatomy of a Fall,” which picked up best original screenplay on Sunday and was also nominated for best picture,...
Previously: After the release of her latest film “Origin,” director Ava DuVernay was vocal about her disappointment that the movie failed to garner widespread attention or awards buzz. Now, the X/Twitter account for “Origin” is taking aim at the distributor Neon, calling out the company for not inviting the filmmakers to its Oscar party.
Quote-tweeting a photo from the party, the account posted one day after the Academy Awards: “Is it odd that the filmmakers of Neon’s current film in theaters weren’t invited to this Neon celebration? Nope. Standard operating procedure for [founder Tom] Quinn and team. That’s how Neon rolls. More on this later.”
The event was hosted at the Hollywood Athletic Club by Neon, which touted its Oscar win for “Anatomy of a Fall,” which picked up best original screenplay on Sunday and was also nominated for best picture,...
- 3/12/2024
- by Ethan Shanfeld
- Variety Film + TV
“Barbie” and “Ahsoka” received top honors at the 61st annual International Cinematographers Guild (Icg) Publicists Awards luncheon at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel on Friday.
The awards honor individual publicists and unit still photographers who further publicity campaigns for film,TV and entertainment journalists.
Variety’s senior entertainment reporter Angelique Jackson earned a nomination from Icg in the Press Award category.
In film, the team at Warner Bros. was recognized for their work on “Barbie.”
Over on the television side, the Disney+ marketing and publicity team took the top honors for their work on “Ahsoka.”
Kicking off the event, mention of the ongoing negotiations between IATSE and the Hollywood Basic Crafts unions was made. Icg chair Sheryl Main praised Matthew Loeb, International president of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, and said solidarity was key.
Sir Patrick Stewart was honored with the 2024 Television Showperson of the Year Award.
During the luncheon,...
The awards honor individual publicists and unit still photographers who further publicity campaigns for film,TV and entertainment journalists.
Variety’s senior entertainment reporter Angelique Jackson earned a nomination from Icg in the Press Award category.
In film, the team at Warner Bros. was recognized for their work on “Barbie.”
Over on the television side, the Disney+ marketing and publicity team took the top honors for their work on “Ahsoka.”
Kicking off the event, mention of the ongoing negotiations between IATSE and the Hollywood Basic Crafts unions was made. Icg chair Sheryl Main praised Matthew Loeb, International president of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, and said solidarity was key.
Sir Patrick Stewart was honored with the 2024 Television Showperson of the Year Award.
During the luncheon,...
- 3/8/2024
- by Jazz Tangcay and Carolyn Giardina
- Variety Film + TV
As Hollywood gets ready to gives its final bow of awards season, parties and events fill the days and nights leading up to the 96th Oscars. From Zendaya and Cate Blanchett at the Green Carpet Fashion Awards and Essence celebrating Danielle Brooks and Halle Bailey to Elton John holding court at his annual viewing dinner, here’s a look at this year’s Oscar party calendar.
March 4
South Asians at the Oscars Party
Co-hosted by Kal Penn, Lilly Singh, Hannah Simone, Tan France, Utkarsh Ambudkar, Rupi Kaur, Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, Anita Chatterjee, Shruti Ganguly, and Archana Misra Jain, with a musical performance by Ankur Tewari.
Paramount Pictures Studios, Los Angeles
7-10 p.m.
March 5
PR Consulting Pre-Oscars Gifting Suite
Dressing suite featuring ready-to-wear and evening wear available for pulls from Rabanne, designer vintage purveyor What Goes Around Comes Around (brands include Oscar De La Renta, Valentino, John Galliano, Cavalli, Gucci by...
March 4
South Asians at the Oscars Party
Co-hosted by Kal Penn, Lilly Singh, Hannah Simone, Tan France, Utkarsh Ambudkar, Rupi Kaur, Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, Anita Chatterjee, Shruti Ganguly, and Archana Misra Jain, with a musical performance by Ankur Tewari.
Paramount Pictures Studios, Los Angeles
7-10 p.m.
March 5
PR Consulting Pre-Oscars Gifting Suite
Dressing suite featuring ready-to-wear and evening wear available for pulls from Rabanne, designer vintage purveyor What Goes Around Comes Around (brands include Oscar De La Renta, Valentino, John Galliano, Cavalli, Gucci by...
- 3/4/2024
- by Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
Rachel Brosnahan spoke to Variety On the Carpet presented by Directv at the 2024 SAG Awards about gearing up to start filming James Gunn’s “Superman: Legacy,” in which she’s taking on the role of Lois Lane. The filmmaker posted the first cast photo last week after a table read of the script, and then Warner Bros. execs confirmed filming would officially begin next week.
“It was pretty amazing,” Brosnahan told Variety’s Angelique Jackson about the “Superman” table read. “Some of us met for the first time. Some of us got to see each other again. It was amazing to hear the script out loud. As with all of these films, there’s a lot of action sequences and things. So to hear the pacing of the film and to get to hear these characters occupied by the actors who play them is really fun. It’s also a great group.
“It was pretty amazing,” Brosnahan told Variety’s Angelique Jackson about the “Superman” table read. “Some of us met for the first time. Some of us got to see each other again. It was amazing to hear the script out loud. As with all of these films, there’s a lot of action sequences and things. So to hear the pacing of the film and to get to hear these characters occupied by the actors who play them is really fun. It’s also a great group.
- 2/25/2024
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
“Moana” voice actor Auli’i Cravalho attended her first SAG Awards this year and spoke to Variety On the Carpet presented by Directv about the hit Disney animated movie becoming a full blown franchise. The studio surprised fans earlier this month by announcing the “Moana” television series it had been developing was now a movie sequel set for a theatrical release this November.
“It feels like the ‘Moana’ universe is expanding and I love that,” Cravalho told Variety’s Angelique Jackson. “I love that Moana is a hero to all. It changed what it meant to be a Disney princess. You can be strong and brave and stand up against a demigod. It feels really good that more and more generations are going to be able to relate to this character.”
Cravalho is also an executive producer on a live-action remake of the original “Moana,” but said she “could feel Mickey Mouse...
“It feels like the ‘Moana’ universe is expanding and I love that,” Cravalho told Variety’s Angelique Jackson. “I love that Moana is a hero to all. It changed what it meant to be a Disney princess. You can be strong and brave and stand up against a demigod. It feels really good that more and more generations are going to be able to relate to this character.”
Cravalho is also an executive producer on a live-action remake of the original “Moana,” but said she “could feel Mickey Mouse...
- 2/25/2024
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
Rainn Wilson has been on TV shows like Backstrom, Star Trek: Discovery, Mom, Transparent, Utopia, and Dark Winds. Last year, he also hosted Peacock’s Rainn Wilson and the Geography Bliss. In this show, he traveled to different cities worldwide in search of happiness.
But he’s best known for for playing Dwight Schrute in The Office for nine seasons. During this time, he received three Emmy nominations for his performance.
Rainn Wilson in a Rainn Wilson and the Geography Bliss
Before he became famous as Dwight Schrute, the 58-year-old faced difficult times. These struggles pushed him to look into religion, where he eventually found solace.
Suggested“We didn’t ask for this”: Solo Leveling Fans are Infuriated as Next Episode Turns into a Waste No One Wants
Rainn Wilson Opens Up About Pre-The Office Struggles, Leading to Religious Awakening
Rainn Wilson talked with Variety‘s Angelique Jackson about his recent projects.
But he’s best known for for playing Dwight Schrute in The Office for nine seasons. During this time, he received three Emmy nominations for his performance.
Rainn Wilson in a Rainn Wilson and the Geography Bliss
Before he became famous as Dwight Schrute, the 58-year-old faced difficult times. These struggles pushed him to look into religion, where he eventually found solace.
Suggested“We didn’t ask for this”: Solo Leveling Fans are Infuriated as Next Episode Turns into a Waste No One Wants
Rainn Wilson Opens Up About Pre-The Office Struggles, Leading to Religious Awakening
Rainn Wilson talked with Variety‘s Angelique Jackson about his recent projects.
- 2/18/2024
- by Shreya Jha
- FandomWire
From Rainn Wilson’s desire to start a spiritual revolution in Hollywood and beyond to Hilary Swank’s latest film “Ordinary Angels,” and a first look at the Amazon Prime Video series “The Baxters” the Variety Spirituality in Entertainment Breakfast, presented by Faith & Media Initiative, explored representations of faith and spirituality throughout media. Tuesday’s event, held at the Los Angeles London hotel, featured five in-depth conversations that dove into varied perspectives on the role of spirituality in entertainment and how industry leaders find inspiration from meditation to a whale’s song.
Rainn Wilson on Wanting to ‘Start a Revolution’ and How ‘The Office’ Played a Role in His Spiritual Journey
Rainn Wilson sat down with Variety senior entertainment writer Angelique Jackson to chat about his latest projects, including writing his New York Times bestseller “Soul Boom: Why We Need a Spiritual Revolution” and SoulPancake, the digital media company he...
Rainn Wilson on Wanting to ‘Start a Revolution’ and How ‘The Office’ Played a Role in His Spiritual Journey
Rainn Wilson sat down with Variety senior entertainment writer Angelique Jackson to chat about his latest projects, including writing his New York Times bestseller “Soul Boom: Why We Need a Spiritual Revolution” and SoulPancake, the digital media company he...
- 2/14/2024
- by Caroline Brew and Jaden Thompson
- Variety Film + TV
Daniel Dae Kim, Andra Day and Carla Gutierrez joined leaders from Gold House, the NAACP and Latinx House to discuss the specific challenges their respective communities face in the entertainment industry. They outlined the work that can be done to achieve greater inclusion in conversations hosted by Variety’s Angelique Jackson at the Sundance Film Festival as a part of Adobe’s Fireside Chats with Changemakers in Film.
Watch all three conversations below:
Andra Day and Kyle Bowser, Senior Vice President of NAACP Hollywood Bureau
“I’ve been hearing this thing in the past few years about no more slave stories, no more past and all this stuff, and no more Black pain porn. And I don’t like the term because I think it boils it down. I think in order for us to be fully represented and fully realized, we need both,” said actor and singer Andra Day...
Watch all three conversations below:
Andra Day and Kyle Bowser, Senior Vice President of NAACP Hollywood Bureau
“I’ve been hearing this thing in the past few years about no more slave stories, no more past and all this stuff, and no more Black pain porn. And I don’t like the term because I think it boils it down. I think in order for us to be fully represented and fully realized, we need both,” said actor and singer Andra Day...
- 1/23/2024
- by Diego Ramos Bechara, Caroline Brew and Jaden Thompson
- Variety Film + TV
Glen Powell and his “Hit Man” co-writer and director Richard Linklater stopped by the Variety Studio presented by Audible at the Sundance Film Festival, where Powell celebrated his role in reviving the romantic-comedy genre. “Anyone But You,” his Sony-backed rom-com with Sydney Sweeney, has earned $64 million at the domestic box office and crossed the $100 million mark worldwide. It’s a huge win for the $25 million movie at a time when many people were writing off the genre as dead.
“At least for me, I’ve always been a fan of movies in general and I always find it silly when certain actors diminish certain genres,” Powell told Variety’s Angelique Jackson. “At its best execution, it gives an audience such joy and such fun, and as an actor you do get to play a lot of gears. To kind of scoff at a genre and look down on it is kind of silly.
“At least for me, I’ve always been a fan of movies in general and I always find it silly when certain actors diminish certain genres,” Powell told Variety’s Angelique Jackson. “At its best execution, it gives an audience such joy and such fun, and as an actor you do get to play a lot of gears. To kind of scoff at a genre and look down on it is kind of silly.
- 1/21/2024
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
Kristen Stewart is being honored with the visionary award at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival opening night gala, a prize that is a bit unusual for the actor to accept. Speaking to Variety‘s Angelique Jackson, Stewart said her job is to serve the vision of filmmakers and not to always have her own sense of vision.
“When I saw that I was being given the visionary award I was like, ‘What a word!'” Stewart said during Variety On The Carpet, presented by Directv. “As an actor, you’re not often glorified for your vision. You fit into other people’s visions and service their efforts and their endeavors and the messages they want to get across.”
“Actors feel like little soldiers for other people’s causes,” she continued. “Coming to this festival and continuing that march, it’s a truly…it’s the apex of where you want to get.
“When I saw that I was being given the visionary award I was like, ‘What a word!'” Stewart said during Variety On The Carpet, presented by Directv. “As an actor, you’re not often glorified for your vision. You fit into other people’s visions and service their efforts and their endeavors and the messages they want to get across.”
“Actors feel like little soldiers for other people’s causes,” she continued. “Coming to this festival and continuing that march, it’s a truly…it’s the apex of where you want to get.
- 1/19/2024
- by Zack Sharf and Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Variety is returning to the Sundance Film Festival this year with its annual Interview Studio, presented by Audible, the leading creator and provider of premium audio storytelling. Throughout the festival, videos from the interview studio will be distributed across Variety.com as well as Variety and Audible’s social media channels.
Beginning Friday, January 19, running through Sunday, January 21, the Variety Studio, presented by Audible, will feature interviews with industry-leading directors and top talent from the films premiering at the Sundance Film Festival. Confirmed talent includes Jesse Eisenberg, Kieran Culkin (“A Real Pain”); Jodie Foster, Alex Hedison, Alok Vaid-Menon (“Alok”); Lionel Richie, Bao Nguyen, Julia Nottingham (“The Greatest Night in Pop”); Kerry Washington, Angela Patton, Natalie Rae (“Daughters”); June Squibb, Fred Hechinger, Clark Gregg, Josh Margolin (“Thelma”); Anna Fleck, Ryan Boden, Pedro Pascal, Jay Ellis, Normani, Dominique Thorn, Ji-Young Yoo, Jack Champion (“Freaky Tales”); Richard Linklater, Glen Powell (“Hit Man”); Susanna Fogel,...
Beginning Friday, January 19, running through Sunday, January 21, the Variety Studio, presented by Audible, will feature interviews with industry-leading directors and top talent from the films premiering at the Sundance Film Festival. Confirmed talent includes Jesse Eisenberg, Kieran Culkin (“A Real Pain”); Jodie Foster, Alex Hedison, Alok Vaid-Menon (“Alok”); Lionel Richie, Bao Nguyen, Julia Nottingham (“The Greatest Night in Pop”); Kerry Washington, Angela Patton, Natalie Rae (“Daughters”); June Squibb, Fred Hechinger, Clark Gregg, Josh Margolin (“Thelma”); Anna Fleck, Ryan Boden, Pedro Pascal, Jay Ellis, Normani, Dominique Thorn, Ji-Young Yoo, Jack Champion (“Freaky Tales”); Richard Linklater, Glen Powell (“Hit Man”); Susanna Fogel,...
- 1/17/2024
- by William Earl
- Variety Film + TV
Jonathan Majors has lost a buzzy upcoming film role after his recent assault conviction.
The actor will no longer be playing controversial basketball player Dennis Rodman in a film with the working title “48 Hours In Vegas,” Variety has confirmed. CNN first reported the news.
The film is set to document the true story of the Bulls’ power forward’s notorious trip to Las Vegas in the middle of the 1998 NBA finals.
Lionsgate is also no longer involved with the project, as the studio released it back to the producers to find a new partner. Phil Lord, Chris Miller and Aditya Sood will produce for Lord Miller, and Ari Lubet, Will Allegra and Rodman will executive produce. Jordan VanDina (Hulu’s “The Binge”) is set to write the screenplay.
Majors was convicted on Dec. 18 of two misdemeanor counts of harassment and assault during a domestic dispute with his former partner, Grace Jabbari.
The actor will no longer be playing controversial basketball player Dennis Rodman in a film with the working title “48 Hours In Vegas,” Variety has confirmed. CNN first reported the news.
The film is set to document the true story of the Bulls’ power forward’s notorious trip to Las Vegas in the middle of the 1998 NBA finals.
Lionsgate is also no longer involved with the project, as the studio released it back to the producers to find a new partner. Phil Lord, Chris Miller and Aditya Sood will produce for Lord Miller, and Ari Lubet, Will Allegra and Rodman will executive produce. Jordan VanDina (Hulu’s “The Binge”) is set to write the screenplay.
Majors was convicted on Dec. 18 of two misdemeanor counts of harassment and assault during a domestic dispute with his former partner, Grace Jabbari.
- 1/12/2024
- by William Earl
- Variety Film + TV
The music video for Fantasia’s “Superpower (I)” from “The Color Purple” is here.
“Superpower (I),” written and produced by The-Dream, is performed by Fantasia during the musical film’s end credits. The track is shortlisted for the best original song Oscar, as is the film’s “Keep It Movin.’”
Directed by Taylor Fauntleroy, the video features Fantasia singing the powerful track with her younger self, made possible with the use of AI technology. Fantasia, dressed in a sparkly silver and black gown, sings with her 19-year-old self in the red dress she wore for her 2004 “American Idol” performance of “Summertime.” The soaring ballad is an anthem that comes to symbolize Fantasia’s 20-year career from reality competition star to the award-winning lead of “The Color Purple.”
“Not only is this a song that is so meaningful to the story of ‘The Color Purple,’ it’s also a song that...
“Superpower (I),” written and produced by The-Dream, is performed by Fantasia during the musical film’s end credits. The track is shortlisted for the best original song Oscar, as is the film’s “Keep It Movin.’”
Directed by Taylor Fauntleroy, the video features Fantasia singing the powerful track with her younger self, made possible with the use of AI technology. Fantasia, dressed in a sparkly silver and black gown, sings with her 19-year-old self in the red dress she wore for her 2004 “American Idol” performance of “Summertime.” The soaring ballad is an anthem that comes to symbolize Fantasia’s 20-year career from reality competition star to the award-winning lead of “The Color Purple.”
“Not only is this a song that is so meaningful to the story of ‘The Color Purple,’ it’s also a song that...
- 1/12/2024
- by Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
Variety and “Entertainment Tonight” have partnered to produce the official digital red carpet pre-show for the 81st annual Golden Globe Awards, which will air Jan. 7 live on CBS and Paramount+
The digital pre-show will air live starting at 3:30 p.m. Pt on Variety‘s digital and social platforms, ETOnline.com, the Golden Globe Awards website and on the digital platforms of 20 other publications owned by Penske Media Corp., parent company of Variety, which also owns the Globes in a joint venture with Eldridge.
The Globes’ official pre-show will be hosted by Variety‘s Marc Malkin and Angelique Jackson and “Entertainment Tonight” correspondent Rachel Smith. The trio will interview A-listers as stars head into the Beverly Hilton Hotel for the ceremony, and it will feature exclusive footage of stars arriving at the venue.
Marc Malkin, Angelique Jackson and Rachel Smith
“Variety is delighted to collaborate with the Golden Globes and...
The digital pre-show will air live starting at 3:30 p.m. Pt on Variety‘s digital and social platforms, ETOnline.com, the Golden Globe Awards website and on the digital platforms of 20 other publications owned by Penske Media Corp., parent company of Variety, which also owns the Globes in a joint venture with Eldridge.
The Globes’ official pre-show will be hosted by Variety‘s Marc Malkin and Angelique Jackson and “Entertainment Tonight” correspondent Rachel Smith. The trio will interview A-listers as stars head into the Beverly Hilton Hotel for the ceremony, and it will feature exclusive footage of stars arriving at the venue.
Marc Malkin, Angelique Jackson and Rachel Smith
“Variety is delighted to collaborate with the Golden Globes and...
- 1/4/2024
- by William Earl
- Variety Film + TV
Taraji P. Henson revealed during a recent SAG-AFTRA conversation moderated by Variety’s Angelique Jackson that she fired members of her team after her career hit a wall despite the global success of “Empire,” the Fox musical drama series that she starred on for six seasons from 2015 to 2020. Henson played the outspoken and ferocious Cookie Lyon, which won her a Golden Globe and earned her two Emmy nominations. Although a Cookie-centric spinoff was in development, the project was ultimately axed after Fox passed on it and it failed to get shopped around.
“Firing everybody after Cookie,” Henson said when asked about her best business decision. “Everybody had to fucking go. Where is my deal? Where’s my commercial? Cookie was at the top of the fashion game. Where is my endorsement? What did you have set up for after this? That’s why you all haven’t seen me in so long.
“Firing everybody after Cookie,” Henson said when asked about her best business decision. “Everybody had to fucking go. Where is my deal? Where’s my commercial? Cookie was at the top of the fashion game. Where is my endorsement? What did you have set up for after this? That’s why you all haven’t seen me in so long.
- 12/26/2023
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
Taraji P. Henson broke down in tears during a SiriusXM interview with Gayle King while promoting her new film, “The Color Purple.” King asked the Oscar and Emmy-nominated actor if she was still thinking about quitting acting, which King had heard rumors of Henson previously saying. Henson responded by revealing she has hit her breaking point in Hollywood since she continues to be underpaid.
“I’m just tired of working so hard, being gracious at what I do [and] getting paid a fraction of the cost,” Henson said. “I’m tired of hearing my sisters say the same thing over and over. You get tired. I hear people go, ‘You work a lot.’ Well, I have to. The math ain’t math-ing. When you start working a lot, you have a team. Big bills come with what we do. We don’t do this alone. It’s a whole team behind us.
“I’m just tired of working so hard, being gracious at what I do [and] getting paid a fraction of the cost,” Henson said. “I’m tired of hearing my sisters say the same thing over and over. You get tired. I hear people go, ‘You work a lot.’ Well, I have to. The math ain’t math-ing. When you start working a lot, you have a team. Big bills come with what we do. We don’t do this alone. It’s a whole team behind us.
- 12/20/2023
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
The hottest reality TV stars in show business gathered on Wednesday to celebrate Variety’s inaugural Women of Reality TV power list, presented by DirecTV. Honoring the 40 most powerful women in unscripted entertainment, the Bravo elite mingled with real estate flippers, dancers, judges, singers, survivors, amazing racers and those just looking for love.
Despite being at capacity with women known for delivering on drama, the conversation often revolved around the realities of being vulnerable with the world. And for just one night, everyone was there for the right reasons.
Snacking on caviar potato puffs and Spago’s salmon pizza, the honorees gathered for a cocktail party before the dinner. An elated Heidi D’Amelio of “The D’Amelios” snapped a selfie with “The Real Housewives of New Jersey” star Teresa Giudice, who flew in for the celebration with husband Luis Ruelas. Heather Gay of “The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City...
Despite being at capacity with women known for delivering on drama, the conversation often revolved around the realities of being vulnerable with the world. And for just one night, everyone was there for the right reasons.
Snacking on caviar potato puffs and Spago’s salmon pizza, the honorees gathered for a cocktail party before the dinner. An elated Heidi D’Amelio of “The D’Amelios” snapped a selfie with “The Real Housewives of New Jersey” star Teresa Giudice, who flew in for the celebration with husband Luis Ruelas. Heather Gay of “The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City...
- 11/30/2023
- by Meredith Woerner, Caroline Brew and Kate Aurthur
- Variety Film + TV
Thursday night at the Samuel Goldwyn Theater in Los Angeles, the cast and crew of Warner Bros.’ “The Color Purple” dazzled audiences in its first-ever showing. Lead actress Fantasia Barrino was joined by fellow cast members Taraji P. Henson, Danielle Brooks, Colman Domingo, Corey Hawkins, Gabriella “H.E.R.” Wilson, Halle Bailey and Phylicia Pearl Mpasi, plus director Blitz Bazawule and producers Scott Sanders and Oprah Winfrey.
After a screening of this film adaptation of the stage musical, which in turn was based on Alice Walker‘s 1982 novel of the same name, Variety’s Angelique Jackson moderated a nearly hour-long panel in which the tears flowed openly. It was a long time getting to this point, from the movie’s initial announcement in November 2018, to casting and filming, and then the 118-day actors’ strike.
“This is why I said it’s gonna bring healing,” Barrino told the packed theater at the end of the panel.
After a screening of this film adaptation of the stage musical, which in turn was based on Alice Walker‘s 1982 novel of the same name, Variety’s Angelique Jackson moderated a nearly hour-long panel in which the tears flowed openly. It was a long time getting to this point, from the movie’s initial announcement in November 2018, to casting and filming, and then the 118-day actors’ strike.
“This is why I said it’s gonna bring healing,” Barrino told the packed theater at the end of the panel.
- 11/17/2023
- by Marcus James Dixon
- Gold Derby
An emotional Oprah Winfrey and the cast of The Color Purple spoke about the transformative power of the upcoming film at its first public screening, getting spiritual as they cited its divine effect on their lives.
“For every one of us up here, it is a story of, ‘look at what God has done,'” said Winfrey, who wore a lilac sequined outfit in a nod to the musical, on the panel after the showing at the Samuel Goldwyn Theater in Beverly Hills on Thursday night.
Winfrey, a producer on the musical with Scott Sanders and an Oscar nominee for her role as Sophia in Steven Spielberg’s 1985 film adaptation, said the Alice Walker book the films are based on helped her comprehend the sexual abuse she endured as a child.
“Until that time, I didn’t know there was language for what had happened to me,” she told the...
“For every one of us up here, it is a story of, ‘look at what God has done,'” said Winfrey, who wore a lilac sequined outfit in a nod to the musical, on the panel after the showing at the Samuel Goldwyn Theater in Beverly Hills on Thursday night.
Winfrey, a producer on the musical with Scott Sanders and an Oscar nominee for her role as Sophia in Steven Spielberg’s 1985 film adaptation, said the Alice Walker book the films are based on helped her comprehend the sexual abuse she endured as a child.
“Until that time, I didn’t know there was language for what had happened to me,” she told the...
- 11/17/2023
- by Nekesa Mumbi Moody
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Even Meghan Markle can’t fathom what has made her old USA Network drama “Suits” pop off on streaming services this year, but she’s here for it.
While walking the red carpet at Variety’s Power of Women event Thursday, Markle, The Duchess of Sussex, was informed by Variety’s senior entertainment writer Angelique Jackson that the legal drama has now crossed 45 billion minutes streamed on Netflix and Peacock combined, as of Nielsen’s latest weekly streaming report, released earlier Thursday.
“Isn’t that wild?” said Markle, who starred as paralegal Rachel Zane on “Suits.”
Markle said she has “no idea” what has caused the renewed interest in the series, but then ventured a guess: “It was great to work on, such a great cast and crew. We had a really fun time. I was on it for seven seasons, so quite a bit. But it’s hard to...
While walking the red carpet at Variety’s Power of Women event Thursday, Markle, The Duchess of Sussex, was informed by Variety’s senior entertainment writer Angelique Jackson that the legal drama has now crossed 45 billion minutes streamed on Netflix and Peacock combined, as of Nielsen’s latest weekly streaming report, released earlier Thursday.
“Isn’t that wild?” said Markle, who starred as paralegal Rachel Zane on “Suits.”
Markle said she has “no idea” what has caused the renewed interest in the series, but then ventured a guess: “It was great to work on, such a great cast and crew. We had a really fun time. I was on it for seven seasons, so quite a bit. But it’s hard to...
- 11/17/2023
- by Jennifer Maas
- Variety Film + TV
The International Cinematographers Guild (IATSE Local 600) has announced the first group of nominees for the 61st Annual Icg Publicists Awards, which honors publicists, unit still photographers, and entertainment journalists.
Among the nominees is Deadline’s own International Editor At Large, Baz Bamigboye, who clocked a nom in the International Media category. Elsewhere, up for publicists of the year are Sony’s Katie Lovick, Paramount’s Julia Neal, Chris Garcia Nutley of Warner Bros., unit publicist Shelly Williams and Cynthia Swartz.
The awards ceremony will be held at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on March 8, 2024. The winners are picked through an online ballot of the Icg publicists membership during a voting period from Jan. 24 to Feb. 2, 2024.
Scroll down for the full list of nominees.
Les Mason Award for Career Achievement in Publicity
Natalie Bjelajac, Netflix
Linda Brown, Unit Publicist
Kira Feola, Kc Feola PR
Gabriela Gutentag, Unit Publicist
Carol McConnaughey, Unit...
Among the nominees is Deadline’s own International Editor At Large, Baz Bamigboye, who clocked a nom in the International Media category. Elsewhere, up for publicists of the year are Sony’s Katie Lovick, Paramount’s Julia Neal, Chris Garcia Nutley of Warner Bros., unit publicist Shelly Williams and Cynthia Swartz.
The awards ceremony will be held at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on March 8, 2024. The winners are picked through an online ballot of the Icg publicists membership during a voting period from Jan. 24 to Feb. 2, 2024.
Scroll down for the full list of nominees.
Les Mason Award for Career Achievement in Publicity
Natalie Bjelajac, Netflix
Linda Brown, Unit Publicist
Kira Feola, Kc Feola PR
Gabriela Gutentag, Unit Publicist
Carol McConnaughey, Unit...
- 11/14/2023
- by Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
The International Cinematographers Guild (IATSE Local 600) has unwrapped the first group of nominees for its 61st annual Icg Publicists Awards, which will be presented March 8 at the Beverly Hilton.
The nominees follow:
Les Mason Award for Career Achievement in Publicity
Natalie Bjelajac, Netflix
Linda Brown, Unit Publicist
Kira Feola, Kc Feola PR
Gabriela Gutentag, Unit Publicist
Carol McConnaughey, Unit Publicist
Publicists of the Year Award
Katie Lovick, Sony Pictures Entertainment
Julia Neal, Paramount Pictures
Chris Garcia Nutley, Warner Bros.
Cynthia Swartz, Strategy PR/Consulting
Shelly Williams, Unit Publicist
Excellence in Unit Stills Photography – Motion Pictures
Claudette Barius
Daniel McFadden
Jessica Miglio
Michele K. Short
Jojo Whilden
Excellence in Unit Stills Photography – Television
Jessica Brooks
Justin Lubin
Jake Giles Netter
Erin Simkin
Lacey Terrell
Press Award
Scott Feinberg, The Hollywood Reporter
Angelique Jackson, Variety
Perri Nemiroff, Collider
Sasha Stone, Awards Daily
Jen Yamato, The Los Angeles Times
International Media Award
Raya Abirached,...
The nominees follow:
Les Mason Award for Career Achievement in Publicity
Natalie Bjelajac, Netflix
Linda Brown, Unit Publicist
Kira Feola, Kc Feola PR
Gabriela Gutentag, Unit Publicist
Carol McConnaughey, Unit Publicist
Publicists of the Year Award
Katie Lovick, Sony Pictures Entertainment
Julia Neal, Paramount Pictures
Chris Garcia Nutley, Warner Bros.
Cynthia Swartz, Strategy PR/Consulting
Shelly Williams, Unit Publicist
Excellence in Unit Stills Photography – Motion Pictures
Claudette Barius
Daniel McFadden
Jessica Miglio
Michele K. Short
Jojo Whilden
Excellence in Unit Stills Photography – Television
Jessica Brooks
Justin Lubin
Jake Giles Netter
Erin Simkin
Lacey Terrell
Press Award
Scott Feinberg, The Hollywood Reporter
Angelique Jackson, Variety
Perri Nemiroff, Collider
Sasha Stone, Awards Daily
Jen Yamato, The Los Angeles Times
International Media Award
Raya Abirached,...
- 11/14/2023
- by Carolyn Giardina
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
A group of A-list actors is adding pressure on SAG-AFTRA leadership to find a way to resolve the actors strike, which has now lasted 97 days.
George Clooney, Tyler Perry, Scarlett Johansson, and others held a Zoom meeting on Tuesday afternoon with Fran Drescher, the president of SAG-AFTRA, and Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, the union’s executive director.
Though the tone has been described as “supportive,” the actors did not call the meeting merely to express support. According to several sources, the A-listers represent significant discontent within the guild that talks have broken down, and are looking for a path to restart negotiations and end the strike.
Perry employs hundreds of people at his studio in Atlanta, and has been concerned for weeks that he cannot resume production.
The group, which also includes Emma Stone and Ben Affleck, was said by one source to have given a “presentation” to Drescher and Crabtree-Ireland.
George Clooney, Tyler Perry, Scarlett Johansson, and others held a Zoom meeting on Tuesday afternoon with Fran Drescher, the president of SAG-AFTRA, and Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, the union’s executive director.
Though the tone has been described as “supportive,” the actors did not call the meeting merely to express support. According to several sources, the A-listers represent significant discontent within the guild that talks have broken down, and are looking for a path to restart negotiations and end the strike.
Perry employs hundreds of people at his studio in Atlanta, and has been concerned for weeks that he cannot resume production.
The group, which also includes Emma Stone and Ben Affleck, was said by one source to have given a “presentation” to Drescher and Crabtree-Ireland.
- 10/18/2023
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
Just a few months after Macro lined up a new $90 million round of investment, Hollywood went on strike. Charles D. King, Macro’s CEO and founder, has been using his entrepreneurial drive to make the best of a tough situation.
“When there are moments of chaos, we find opportunity,” said King in a conversation at Variety’s Entertainment and Technology Summit Thursday. The talk was moderated by Variety’s senior entertainment writer Angelique Jackson. “That’s the time you can actually afford to fly and get stronger. And so, you know, we haven’t slowed up even this year, despite all the different challenges that have happened over the course of last three years.”
This year, Macro Media was behind the Jamie Foxx-led Netflix release “They Cloned Tyrone,” a black sci-fi comedy about a government conspiracy in a Black neighborhood. Previously, Macro has been behind similar projects surrounding Black...
“When there are moments of chaos, we find opportunity,” said King in a conversation at Variety’s Entertainment and Technology Summit Thursday. The talk was moderated by Variety’s senior entertainment writer Angelique Jackson. “That’s the time you can actually afford to fly and get stronger. And so, you know, we haven’t slowed up even this year, despite all the different challenges that have happened over the course of last three years.”
This year, Macro Media was behind the Jamie Foxx-led Netflix release “They Cloned Tyrone,” a black sci-fi comedy about a government conspiracy in a Black neighborhood. Previously, Macro has been behind similar projects surrounding Black...
- 9/22/2023
- by Sophia Scorziello
- Variety Film + TV
The most promising emerging talent in show business gathered on Thursday to celebrate Variety’s annual Power of Young Hollywood issue, honoring actors Sydney Sweeney and Noah Schnapp and musician Steve Lacy. Sony Electronics and Ford were the presenting and premier sponsors of the evening.
Honorees Steve Lacy, Noah Schnapp and Sydney Sweeney at Variety’s Power of Young Hollywood (Photo by Stefanie Keenan/Variety via Getty Images)
High atop Sunset Blvd. at Hollywood’s NeueHouse, the evening welcomed a mix of top talent and influencers, industry figures and a light smattering of the over-30 crowd. “Never Have I Ever” stars Darren Barnet and Megan Suri, “King Richard” star Demi Singleton, “The Sex Lives of College Girls” actor Reneé Rapp, TikTokers Connor Wood and Dylan Mulvaney, Marvel actor Xochitl Gomez, “Saved by the Bell” reboot star and recent Chapman grad Josie Totah, “Barbie” star Alexandra Shipp and veteran actor Dermot Mulroney...
Honorees Steve Lacy, Noah Schnapp and Sydney Sweeney at Variety’s Power of Young Hollywood (Photo by Stefanie Keenan/Variety via Getty Images)
High atop Sunset Blvd. at Hollywood’s NeueHouse, the evening welcomed a mix of top talent and influencers, industry figures and a light smattering of the over-30 crowd. “Never Have I Ever” stars Darren Barnet and Megan Suri, “King Richard” star Demi Singleton, “The Sex Lives of College Girls” actor Reneé Rapp, TikTokers Connor Wood and Dylan Mulvaney, Marvel actor Xochitl Gomez, “Saved by the Bell” reboot star and recent Chapman grad Josie Totah, “Barbie” star Alexandra Shipp and veteran actor Dermot Mulroney...
- 8/11/2023
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Spoiler Alert: This story discusses plot developments in the finale of Marvel Studios’ “Secret Invasion,” currently streaming on Disney+, but maybe that doesn’t really matter to you — and maybe that’s Ok.
In 2007, at my very first San Diego Comic-Con, I witnessed the entertainment industry change in a matter of minutes, when Jon Favreau debuted the first footage of Robert Downey Jr. in “Iron Man.”
At the time, Marvel Studios was an independent company banking its entire future on a third-tier character played by an untested star, an effort that many in the industry and the fan community alike regarded with deep skepticism (if not outright derision). The film had just finished shooting, so the footage only had one real VFX shot of Iron Man suit flying alongside jet fighters; the rest of the preview relied on Downey’s charms and in-camera footage of him as Tony Stark in...
In 2007, at my very first San Diego Comic-Con, I witnessed the entertainment industry change in a matter of minutes, when Jon Favreau debuted the first footage of Robert Downey Jr. in “Iron Man.”
At the time, Marvel Studios was an independent company banking its entire future on a third-tier character played by an untested star, an effort that many in the industry and the fan community alike regarded with deep skepticism (if not outright derision). The film had just finished shooting, so the footage only had one real VFX shot of Iron Man suit flying alongside jet fighters; the rest of the preview relied on Downey’s charms and in-camera footage of him as Tony Stark in...
- 8/2/2023
- by Adam B. Vary
- Variety Film + TV
Angus Cloud completed production for his role on Universal’s upcoming monster thriller from directors Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett before his death, a source close to the project confirms.
Set for an April 2024 release, the untitled feature stars Cloud alongside a cast including Kathryn Newton, Dan Stevens, Alisha Weir, Kevin Durand and Will Catlett. Melissa Barrera, who starred in the fifth and sixth “Scream” entries, also reunites with Bettinelli-Olpin and Gillett for the film. The pair compose the directorial muscle behind the collective known as Radio Silence, which includes producer Chad Villella. Tripp Vinson is also producing, alongside William Sherak, Paul Neinstein and James Vanderbilt for Project X Entertainment.
The film isn’t complete yet and remains impacted by the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike.
Cloud died Monday in Oakland Calif. at the age of 25. The Oakland Fire Department stated that it responded to a medical emergency at approximately 11:30 a.
Set for an April 2024 release, the untitled feature stars Cloud alongside a cast including Kathryn Newton, Dan Stevens, Alisha Weir, Kevin Durand and Will Catlett. Melissa Barrera, who starred in the fifth and sixth “Scream” entries, also reunites with Bettinelli-Olpin and Gillett for the film. The pair compose the directorial muscle behind the collective known as Radio Silence, which includes producer Chad Villella. Tripp Vinson is also producing, alongside William Sherak, Paul Neinstein and James Vanderbilt for Project X Entertainment.
The film isn’t complete yet and remains impacted by the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike.
Cloud died Monday in Oakland Calif. at the age of 25. The Oakland Fire Department stated that it responded to a medical emergency at approximately 11:30 a.
- 8/1/2023
- by J. Kim Murphy
- Variety Film + TV
Can San Diego Comic-Con catch a break?
For two years, the biggest annual fan convention in North America was forced to cancel the five-day gathering due to the Covid-19 pandemic — placing Comic-Con International, the non-profit organization that runs Sdcc, under unprecedented financial strain. Last year, Sdcc came roaring back with a masked-and-vaccinated convention that was a robust success, with blockbuster Hall H panels for the “Star Trek” TV universe, “House of the Dragon,” “The Walking Dead” and, especially, Marvel Studios.
This year’s Comic-Con — which is scheduled to start July 19, less than a month away — is increasingly likely to have none of those panels.
At least, that’s what studios across the industry are anticipating. If SAG-AFTRA and the AMPTP cannot come to terms by the June 30 contract deadline and the guild goes on strike, actors will almost certainly join writers and showrunners in sitting out promotional events like Comic-Con,...
For two years, the biggest annual fan convention in North America was forced to cancel the five-day gathering due to the Covid-19 pandemic — placing Comic-Con International, the non-profit organization that runs Sdcc, under unprecedented financial strain. Last year, Sdcc came roaring back with a masked-and-vaccinated convention that was a robust success, with blockbuster Hall H panels for the “Star Trek” TV universe, “House of the Dragon,” “The Walking Dead” and, especially, Marvel Studios.
This year’s Comic-Con — which is scheduled to start July 19, less than a month away — is increasingly likely to have none of those panels.
At least, that’s what studios across the industry are anticipating. If SAG-AFTRA and the AMPTP cannot come to terms by the June 30 contract deadline and the guild goes on strike, actors will almost certainly join writers and showrunners in sitting out promotional events like Comic-Con,...
- 6/23/2023
- by Adam B. Vary
- Variety Film + TV
“Shoutout to writers,” exclaimed Jason Sudeikis, on stage with much of the cast and creative team behind “Ted Lasso” for a fan event that would kick off the opening of the “Think Apple TV+ FYC” space. “What a day to be doing this.”
Mere hours later, at the stroke of midnight on May 2, the Writers Guild of America would decide to officially go on strike, calling for its members nationwide to enforce a work stoppage. However, it was not clear until that following afternoon what the guidance was for participating in For Your Consideration events meant to highlight the work they already accomplished this TV season.
The conclusion the union came to in terms of members attending film festivals or FYC events for a film or a show they wrote on, as published in the WGA Strike Rules Faq, was “You should let the Company know you are prohibited from...
Mere hours later, at the stroke of midnight on May 2, the Writers Guild of America would decide to officially go on strike, calling for its members nationwide to enforce a work stoppage. However, it was not clear until that following afternoon what the guidance was for participating in For Your Consideration events meant to highlight the work they already accomplished this TV season.
The conclusion the union came to in terms of members attending film festivals or FYC events for a film or a show they wrote on, as published in the WGA Strike Rules Faq, was “You should let the Company know you are prohibited from...
- 5/9/2023
- by Marcus Jones
- Indiewire
Netflix hosted a royal ball fit with its own royal court from several HBCUs as well as the “Bridgerton” royals at the “Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story” premiere on Wednesday night.
Held at Westwood’s Regency Village Theatre, cast members including executive producer and showrunner Shonda Rhimes, Betsy Beers, Golda Rosheuvel, India Ria Amarteifio, Corey Mylchreest and Arsema Thomas.
Fans announced the stars’ arrival with cheers as they watched them enter the event before officially hitting the red carpet for a night that included crowns for everyone, as well as a surprising introduction from Alicia Keys, whose song “If I Ain’t Got You” received the classical rendition treatment, as Rhimes promised more music from Black queens would be featured in the coming season. The premiere was punctuated by a panel moderated by Variety’s Angelique Jackson.
“Centered on Queen Charlotte’s rise to prominence and power, this Bridgerton-verse prequel...
Held at Westwood’s Regency Village Theatre, cast members including executive producer and showrunner Shonda Rhimes, Betsy Beers, Golda Rosheuvel, India Ria Amarteifio, Corey Mylchreest and Arsema Thomas.
Fans announced the stars’ arrival with cheers as they watched them enter the event before officially hitting the red carpet for a night that included crowns for everyone, as well as a surprising introduction from Alicia Keys, whose song “If I Ain’t Got You” received the classical rendition treatment, as Rhimes promised more music from Black queens would be featured in the coming season. The premiere was punctuated by a panel moderated by Variety’s Angelique Jackson.
“Centered on Queen Charlotte’s rise to prominence and power, this Bridgerton-verse prequel...
- 4/28/2023
- by BreAnna Bell
- Variety Film + TV
Apple TV+ is opening its own FYC activation pop-up this year, taking over Hollywood’s Goya Studios to launch the “Think Apple TV+ FYC” space from May 1 to May 14.
The streamer’s signature Emmy-winning hit “Ted Lasso” will open the space on May 1 with a fan event that includes a series trivia game, followed by a conversation moderated by Yvette Nicole Brown (“Community”). Cast and creative team participating include series star and executive producer Jason Sudeikis, as well as Brendan Hunt, Brett Goldstein, Juno Temple, Phil Dunster, Jeremy Swift, Kola Bokinni, Cristo Fernández, Billy Harris and James Lance. The trivia game, hosted by comedian Ryan Budds, will feature cast members Charlie Hiscock, Stephen Manas and Moe Jeudy-Lamour.
Meanwhile, the two-week “Think Apple TV+” FYC space will wrap on May 14 with a “Schmigadoon!” sing-along. Since it’s Apple, the event will allow attendees to follow the lyrics along with “Schmigadoon!” stars Andrew Singer,...
The streamer’s signature Emmy-winning hit “Ted Lasso” will open the space on May 1 with a fan event that includes a series trivia game, followed by a conversation moderated by Yvette Nicole Brown (“Community”). Cast and creative team participating include series star and executive producer Jason Sudeikis, as well as Brendan Hunt, Brett Goldstein, Juno Temple, Phil Dunster, Jeremy Swift, Kola Bokinni, Cristo Fernández, Billy Harris and James Lance. The trivia game, hosted by comedian Ryan Budds, will feature cast members Charlie Hiscock, Stephen Manas and Moe Jeudy-Lamour.
Meanwhile, the two-week “Think Apple TV+” FYC space will wrap on May 14 with a “Schmigadoon!” sing-along. Since it’s Apple, the event will allow attendees to follow the lyrics along with “Schmigadoon!” stars Andrew Singer,...
- 4/25/2023
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
“Abbott Elementary” and “Top Gun: Maverick” received top honors at the 60th annual International Cinematographers Guild (Icg) Publicists Awards luncheon at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on Friday.
The awards honor individual publicists, unit still photographers and entertainment journalists who further publicity campaigns for film and TV. Variety’s senior artisans editor Jazz Tangcay and senior entertainment reporter Angelique Jackson each earned nominations from Icg.
Quinta Brunson of “Abbott Elementary” received the TV showman of the year honor, and the producers of “Top Gun: Maverick” received the honor on the film side, with Bruckheimer accepting on behalf of all four.
In her speech, Brunson had the crowd laughing as she commended the role of publicists. “I didn’t know that this award show existed…but I’m happy that it does exist, because you all do a job that is incredible, crucial and underappreciated,” Brunson said. “It’s important to have publicists who understand the vision,...
The awards honor individual publicists, unit still photographers and entertainment journalists who further publicity campaigns for film and TV. Variety’s senior artisans editor Jazz Tangcay and senior entertainment reporter Angelique Jackson each earned nominations from Icg.
Quinta Brunson of “Abbott Elementary” received the TV showman of the year honor, and the producers of “Top Gun: Maverick” received the honor on the film side, with Bruckheimer accepting on behalf of all four.
In her speech, Brunson had the crowd laughing as she commended the role of publicists. “I didn’t know that this award show existed…but I’m happy that it does exist, because you all do a job that is incredible, crucial and underappreciated,” Brunson said. “It’s important to have publicists who understand the vision,...
- 3/10/2023
- by Julia MacCary
- Variety Film + TV
Gina Prince-Bythewood addressed the lack of Black representation among this year’s Oscar nominees during the red carpet for the NAACP Image Awards on Saturday evening.
“The Woman King” director penned an essay in The Hollywood Reporter after her historical drama found itself completely shut out of the Academy Awards, despite landing several precursor noms across other awards bodies and craft institutions. Prince-Bythewood called the season “an eye-opener” and that “the Academy made a very loud statement, and for me to stay quiet is to accept that statement.”
“We know the issues exist, but they felt amplified this year,” Prince-Bythewood told Variety senior entertainment writer Angelique Jackson on the red carpet, discussing her essay. “The responses have been really amazing. The number of people that have reached out and sharing it — whole companies are sharing it — and then going to the BAFTAs and having people reference it as well, there...
“The Woman King” director penned an essay in The Hollywood Reporter after her historical drama found itself completely shut out of the Academy Awards, despite landing several precursor noms across other awards bodies and craft institutions. Prince-Bythewood called the season “an eye-opener” and that “the Academy made a very loud statement, and for me to stay quiet is to accept that statement.”
“We know the issues exist, but they felt amplified this year,” Prince-Bythewood told Variety senior entertainment writer Angelique Jackson on the red carpet, discussing her essay. “The responses have been really amazing. The number of people that have reached out and sharing it — whole companies are sharing it — and then going to the BAFTAs and having people reference it as well, there...
- 2/26/2023
- by Julia MacCary and J. Kim Murphy
- Variety Film + TV
Angela Bassett has simply done the thing once again. After being name-dropped by Ariana DeBose in a rap that opened the BAFTA Film Awards, the “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” star tells Variety that she reached out to DeBose in the aftermath to check in on her.
“I Dm’d her last night. I did. It was beautiful,” Bassett told Variety senior entertainment writer Angelique Jackson on the red carpet at the NAACP Image Awards on Saturday evening. “I just wanted to make sure she was okay because, you know, it’s a lot of attention. And she is A-Okay.”
Bassett’s mention was one of the catchier lyrics in DeBose’s opener. DeBose, who won last year’s BAFTA and Academy Award for best supporting actress for her performance in “West Side Story,” kicked off the British Academy Film Awards on Feb. 19 with a rap that name-dropped several of the evening’s nominees,...
“I Dm’d her last night. I did. It was beautiful,” Bassett told Variety senior entertainment writer Angelique Jackson on the red carpet at the NAACP Image Awards on Saturday evening. “I just wanted to make sure she was okay because, you know, it’s a lot of attention. And she is A-Okay.”
Bassett’s mention was one of the catchier lyrics in DeBose’s opener. DeBose, who won last year’s BAFTA and Academy Award for best supporting actress for her performance in “West Side Story,” kicked off the British Academy Film Awards on Feb. 19 with a rap that name-dropped several of the evening’s nominees,...
- 2/26/2023
- by J. Kim Murphy
- Variety Film + TV
To date, the Marvel Cinematic Universe has included only three feature films that focus on a single female superhero: 2019’s “Captain Marvel,” 2021’s “Black Widow” and 2022’s “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.”
Evangeline Lilly is hoping Marvel is in the mood for a fourth.
“I’m going to make a pitch that I think it might be time for a Wasp standalone film,” the actor told Variety at the premiere of “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” on Monday. “Do we agree? Do we agree?”
Lilly has played Hope Van Dyne since 2015’s “Ant-Man,” and when the character became the Wasp for 2018’s “Ant-Man and the Wasp,” she shared title status with Paul Rudd’s shrinking Avenger. Other than a brief appearance in “Avengers: Endgame,” however, the character has remained largely unexplored in the MCU, and Lilly is hoping that can change.
In a follow-up interview with Variety on Tuesday, Lilly said...
Evangeline Lilly is hoping Marvel is in the mood for a fourth.
“I’m going to make a pitch that I think it might be time for a Wasp standalone film,” the actor told Variety at the premiere of “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” on Monday. “Do we agree? Do we agree?”
Lilly has played Hope Van Dyne since 2015’s “Ant-Man,” and when the character became the Wasp for 2018’s “Ant-Man and the Wasp,” she shared title status with Paul Rudd’s shrinking Avenger. Other than a brief appearance in “Avengers: Endgame,” however, the character has remained largely unexplored in the MCU, and Lilly is hoping that can change.
In a follow-up interview with Variety on Tuesday, Lilly said...
- 2/11/2023
- by Adam B. Vary
- Variety Film + TV
Variety sat down with “Skilled” filmmaker Julio Palacio and featured subjects – a plumber (Paige Knowles), a welder (Cedric Smith), a film gaffer (Sophia Stieglitz) and a safety specialist (Andrea Martin) – to discuss the new documentary, which explores the lives of trade workers.
“Skilled” premiered at a Sundance Film Festival 3M-sanctioned event hosted by Vivica A. Fox, the “Kill Bill” actor, director and philanthropist.
“I was really inspired by their stories, and it’s almost like a mirror because your stories are also my story, and I think it’s everybody’s story,” said Palacio in conversation with Variety’s Angelique Jackson and four of the documentary’s subjects. “Everybody’s fighting for their dreams, and you guys have been able to accomplish that. Other than that, it was also great to work on a film that didn’t have any political agenda behind it… I knew we were doing something good for the world.
“Skilled” premiered at a Sundance Film Festival 3M-sanctioned event hosted by Vivica A. Fox, the “Kill Bill” actor, director and philanthropist.
“I was really inspired by their stories, and it’s almost like a mirror because your stories are also my story, and I think it’s everybody’s story,” said Palacio in conversation with Variety’s Angelique Jackson and four of the documentary’s subjects. “Everybody’s fighting for their dreams, and you guys have been able to accomplish that. Other than that, it was also great to work on a film that didn’t have any political agenda behind it… I knew we were doing something good for the world.
- 1/25/2023
- by Julia MacCary
- Variety Film + TV
A day after Sundance juror Marlee Matlin walked out of the premiere of “Magazine Dreams” in protest, along with the rest of the festival jury, the Oscar winner talked in-depth about the importance of open captions on film. Speaking at the Variety and Stacy’s Pita Chip Rise brunch, an event celebrating female creators on Jan. 21, Matlin passionately advocated for better inclusive storytelling.
When asked about her work on the 2022 best picture winner “Coda” (which swept the 2021 Sundance fest as well), Matlin stressed the lengths her film took to embrace all fans of cinema. “The film was open caption, the entire film, so you couldn’t just turn it off and on,” Matlin told Variety Senior Entertainment Writer Angelique Jackson. “For me, it made me feel very included, because I could sit and watch the film with everyone reacting the same way, the same time, feeling the same emotions. It...
When asked about her work on the 2022 best picture winner “Coda” (which swept the 2021 Sundance fest as well), Matlin stressed the lengths her film took to embrace all fans of cinema. “The film was open caption, the entire film, so you couldn’t just turn it off and on,” Matlin told Variety Senior Entertainment Writer Angelique Jackson. “For me, it made me feel very included, because I could sit and watch the film with everyone reacting the same way, the same time, feeling the same emotions. It...
- 1/24/2023
- by Charna Flam
- Variety Film + TV
Oscar buzz for Angela Bassett’s performance in “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” surged all the way to Sundance, where her “Black Panther” director Ryan Coogler and “Master of None” co-star Lena Waithe both championed her for the gold. Coogler and Waithe both spoke to Variety’s Angelique Jackson backstage at the A Taste of Sundance event on the festival’s opening night. Coogler was awarded at the event with the inaugural Variety Visionary Award, which recognizes a notable Sundance alumni. Coogler is celebrating the 10th anniversary of his Sundance winner “Fruitvale Station” this year.
Bassett has emerged as the best supporting actress Oscar frontrunner after winning prizes at the Golden Globe Awards and the Critic’s Choice Awards, plus earning nominations at the Screen Actors Guild Awards and the BAFTA Film Awards.
“She’s so incredible that sometimes you forget. You know?” Coogler said in reaction to Bassett’s frontrunner status.
Bassett has emerged as the best supporting actress Oscar frontrunner after winning prizes at the Golden Globe Awards and the Critic’s Choice Awards, plus earning nominations at the Screen Actors Guild Awards and the BAFTA Film Awards.
“She’s so incredible that sometimes you forget. You know?” Coogler said in reaction to Bassett’s frontrunner status.
- 1/20/2023
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
GLAAD has announced the nominees for its 34th annual GLAAD Media Awards, with Variety earning two nods for outstanding print article (Angelique Jackson’s piece on Aunjanue Ellis) and magazine overall coverage.
Other nominees include “A League of Their Own,” “Abbott Elementary,” “Anything’s Possible” and “Bros.” GLAAD is the largest LGBTQ media advocacy group, and its awards recognize media portrayals that are accurate, inclusive and fair. GLAAD also selects nominees for their boldness and originality, impact and overall quality. This year’s media awards are presented by Gilead Sciences, Inc. and Ketel One Family Made Vodka.
“RuPaul’s Drag Race” stars Salina EsTitties and Sasha Colby revealed the nominees of select categories on YouTube Wednesday morning in a video entitled “GLAAD Drag Story Time.”
In the clip, Colby mentioned recent violence against drag performers. “Performers like us are being threatened with anti-lgbtq bills, nasty protests, and even violence. You know what’s scary?...
Other nominees include “A League of Their Own,” “Abbott Elementary,” “Anything’s Possible” and “Bros.” GLAAD is the largest LGBTQ media advocacy group, and its awards recognize media portrayals that are accurate, inclusive and fair. GLAAD also selects nominees for their boldness and originality, impact and overall quality. This year’s media awards are presented by Gilead Sciences, Inc. and Ketel One Family Made Vodka.
“RuPaul’s Drag Race” stars Salina EsTitties and Sasha Colby revealed the nominees of select categories on YouTube Wednesday morning in a video entitled “GLAAD Drag Story Time.”
In the clip, Colby mentioned recent violence against drag performers. “Performers like us are being threatened with anti-lgbtq bills, nasty protests, and even violence. You know what’s scary?...
- 1/18/2023
- by Julia MacCary
- Variety Film + TV
The Icg Publicists Guild today revealed the six nominees for its 2023 Maxwell Weinberg Award for Motion Picture Publicity Campaigns, which include the teams behind last year’s two biggest movies.
The billion-dollar grossers Avatar: The Way of Water and Top Gun: Maverick will vie for the marquee prize along with Elvis, Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery, Nope and The Woman King.
The award honors active members working on motion pictures whose achievements in publicity and promotion campaigns during the previous calendar year are deemed outstanding.
“The outstanding nominations this year shine a bright light not only on the diversity of the films submitted but also the individual challenges the publicity teams faced in this highly competitive field,” said Sheryl Main, who announced the nominees along with fellow Icg Publicists Awards Chair Tim Menke.
Another billion-dollar pic, Sony’s Spider-Man: No Way Home, won the guild’s Maxwell Weinberg Award for movies last year,...
The billion-dollar grossers Avatar: The Way of Water and Top Gun: Maverick will vie for the marquee prize along with Elvis, Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery, Nope and The Woman King.
The award honors active members working on motion pictures whose achievements in publicity and promotion campaigns during the previous calendar year are deemed outstanding.
“The outstanding nominations this year shine a bright light not only on the diversity of the films submitted but also the individual challenges the publicity teams faced in this highly competitive field,” said Sheryl Main, who announced the nominees along with fellow Icg Publicists Awards Chair Tim Menke.
Another billion-dollar pic, Sony’s Spider-Man: No Way Home, won the guild’s Maxwell Weinberg Award for movies last year,...
- 1/12/2023
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
It was a Pandora family reunion at the Los Angeles premiere of “Avatar: The Way of Water” on Monday evening, though the film’s key patriarch was not able to attend. Director James Cameron, who spent 13 years developing, filming and designing the sci-fi sequel after his first “Avatar” became the highest-grossing film in history, had to bow out ahead of the festivities; he had tested positive for Covid-19.
Nonetheless, it was an emotional evening for the film’s cast and crew, as they gathered to celebrate reaching the finish line after a long journey. The franchise’s leading man, Sam Worthington, reflected on the yearslong process of creating “The Way of Water.”
“We started work on it in, I think, 2015 was when I first saw things of it and 2017 was when we first started. It’s been a gradual continued process, like a big journey,” Sam Worthington told Variety’s Angelique Jackson on the carpet.
Nonetheless, it was an emotional evening for the film’s cast and crew, as they gathered to celebrate reaching the finish line after a long journey. The franchise’s leading man, Sam Worthington, reflected on the yearslong process of creating “The Way of Water.”
“We started work on it in, I think, 2015 was when I first saw things of it and 2017 was when we first started. It’s been a gradual continued process, like a big journey,” Sam Worthington told Variety’s Angelique Jackson on the carpet.
- 12/13/2022
- by J. Kim Murphy
- Variety Film + TV
Nominations for the 60th annual International Cinematographers Guild’s Publicists Awards were announced today honoring individual publicists, unit still photographers and entertainment journalists. Winners will be revealed at an awards luncheon on March 10, 2023, at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. The announcement was made by Tim Menke and Sheryl Main, Icg Publicists Awards Chairs.
And the nominees are:
Les Mason Award for Career Achievement in Publicity
• Natalie Bjelajac, Netflix
• Karen Chamberlain, Warner Bros. Pictures
• Gabriela Gutentag, Unit Publicist
• Carri McClure, Unit Publicist
• Carol McConnaughey, Unit Publicist
• Claire Raskind, Unit Publicist
Publicist of the Year Award
• Michelle Alt, Paramount Pictures
• Heidi Falconer, Unit Publicist
• James Ferrera, Unit Publicist
• Sara Hull, Walt Disney Studios
• Gianluca Lignola, Universal Pictures
• Danielle Roque, Paramount Pictures International
Excellence in Unit Still Photography Award – Motion Pictures
• Eli Joshua Ade
• Quantrell Colbert
• Kevin Estrada
• Chiabella James
• Jojo Whilden
Excellence in Unit Still Photography — Television
• Beth Dubber
• Richard Foreman
• Hilary Bronwyn Gayle...
And the nominees are:
Les Mason Award for Career Achievement in Publicity
• Natalie Bjelajac, Netflix
• Karen Chamberlain, Warner Bros. Pictures
• Gabriela Gutentag, Unit Publicist
• Carri McClure, Unit Publicist
• Carol McConnaughey, Unit Publicist
• Claire Raskind, Unit Publicist
Publicist of the Year Award
• Michelle Alt, Paramount Pictures
• Heidi Falconer, Unit Publicist
• James Ferrera, Unit Publicist
• Sara Hull, Walt Disney Studios
• Gianluca Lignola, Universal Pictures
• Danielle Roque, Paramount Pictures International
Excellence in Unit Still Photography Award – Motion Pictures
• Eli Joshua Ade
• Quantrell Colbert
• Kevin Estrada
• Chiabella James
• Jojo Whilden
Excellence in Unit Still Photography — Television
• Beth Dubber
• Richard Foreman
• Hilary Bronwyn Gayle...
- 12/7/2022
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
The International Cinematographers Guild has announced six additional award nominations for the 60th Annual Icg Publicists Awards.
The ceremony recognizes individual publicists, unit still photographers and entertainment journalists that facilitate film and television publicity campaigns. Variety’s Senior Artisans Editor Jazz Tangcay and Senior Entertainment Reporter Angelique Jackson each scored a nomination for the 2023 Press Award.
As previously announced, the nominees for the 2023 Maxwell Weinberg Award for television publicity campaigns are “Abbott Elementary,” “Ghosts,” “Prey,” “RuPaul’s Drag Race: All Stars” and “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.”
The Maxwell Weinberg Award for motion picture publicity campaign nominees will be announced on Jan. 12, while the Motion Picture Showman of the Year Award and the Television Showman of the Year Award will be revealed at a later date.
The 2023 Icg Publicists Awards will take place on March 10 at The Beverly Hilton Hotel.
See the complete nominees list below:
Les Mason Award for Career Achievement in Publicity
Natalie Bjelajac,...
The ceremony recognizes individual publicists, unit still photographers and entertainment journalists that facilitate film and television publicity campaigns. Variety’s Senior Artisans Editor Jazz Tangcay and Senior Entertainment Reporter Angelique Jackson each scored a nomination for the 2023 Press Award.
As previously announced, the nominees for the 2023 Maxwell Weinberg Award for television publicity campaigns are “Abbott Elementary,” “Ghosts,” “Prey,” “RuPaul’s Drag Race: All Stars” and “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.”
The Maxwell Weinberg Award for motion picture publicity campaign nominees will be announced on Jan. 12, while the Motion Picture Showman of the Year Award and the Television Showman of the Year Award will be revealed at a later date.
The 2023 Icg Publicists Awards will take place on March 10 at The Beverly Hilton Hotel.
See the complete nominees list below:
Les Mason Award for Career Achievement in Publicity
Natalie Bjelajac,...
- 12/7/2022
- by Michaela Zee
- Variety Film + TV
As its title implies, “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” further explores how the African nation at the sequel’s heart relates to the rest of the world — and it’s far from the last time audiences will get the opportunity to do so, either.
In an interview for this week’s Variety cover story, “Wakanda Forever” producer Nate Moore says that Marvel Studios is currently developing multiple series set within Wakanda for Disney+ with director Ryan Coogler’s production company, Proximity Media.
“This world is expansive, and there are so many great characters,” Moore says. “Beyond what happens with this film, there are more opportunities to go back to Wakanda.”
Moore says that “some ideas” for Disney+ shows involve established characters from the “Black Panther” films, but there are some shows with characters “that would be completely new.” When pressed for just how many projects are in the works, Moore laughs:...
In an interview for this week’s Variety cover story, “Wakanda Forever” producer Nate Moore says that Marvel Studios is currently developing multiple series set within Wakanda for Disney+ with director Ryan Coogler’s production company, Proximity Media.
“This world is expansive, and there are so many great characters,” Moore says. “Beyond what happens with this film, there are more opportunities to go back to Wakanda.”
Moore says that “some ideas” for Disney+ shows involve established characters from the “Black Panther” films, but there are some shows with characters “that would be completely new.” When pressed for just how many projects are in the works, Moore laughs:...
- 11/9/2022
- by Adam B. Vary
- Variety Film + TV
Last week, Wif celebrated outstanding women who are laying the foundation to transform Hollywood for the better, with the 2022 Wif Honors Celebrating Women “Forging Forward” in Entertainment supported by sponsor Max Mara for the 19th year, alongside Visionary Partners ShivHans Pictures and Lexus and Major Partner Starz.
Olivia Wilde and Katie Silberman speak onstage during the Wif Honors: Forging Forward Gala
Credit/Copyright: Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for Wif
The annual benefit supports Wif’s educational and philanthropic programs and its advocacy for gender parity throughout the industry. Over 75,000 was donated at the event, including a 25,000 donation from NBCUniversal, for the Wif Help Line, which was established in 2017 to offer resources and support, to anyone who has experienced harassment, abuse, or discrimination while working in the entertainment industry. The evening, hosted by actor Da’Vine Joy Randolph, was held at The Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills.
This year’s Wif Honors...
Olivia Wilde and Katie Silberman speak onstage during the Wif Honors: Forging Forward Gala
Credit/Copyright: Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for Wif
The annual benefit supports Wif’s educational and philanthropic programs and its advocacy for gender parity throughout the industry. Over 75,000 was donated at the event, including a 25,000 donation from NBCUniversal, for the Wif Help Line, which was established in 2017 to offer resources and support, to anyone who has experienced harassment, abuse, or discrimination while working in the entertainment industry. The evening, hosted by actor Da’Vine Joy Randolph, was held at The Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills.
This year’s Wif Honors...
- 11/2/2022
- Look to the Stars
If it seems like Jonathan Majors is everywhere lately, that’s because he has been.
Michael B. Jordan shared the first official look of Majors as boxer Damian “Dame” Anderson in “Creed III” on Monday morning, but Variety caught up with the actor over the weekend at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures Gala and the Newport Beach Film Festival honors.
When the topic of his whirlwind few months came up, Majors summed it up simply: “It’s just the season,” he told Variety’s Angelique Jackson at Newport Beach on Sunday.
Well, it certainly has been Majors’ season. The actor was honored at the festival with an Artist of Distinction award for his role in “Devotion,” in which he portrays pioneering fighter pilot Jesse Brown, the Navy’s first Black aviator. Following that part, the actor has a stacked slate of films in the works, including his eagerly-anticipated arrival...
Michael B. Jordan shared the first official look of Majors as boxer Damian “Dame” Anderson in “Creed III” on Monday morning, but Variety caught up with the actor over the weekend at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures Gala and the Newport Beach Film Festival honors.
When the topic of his whirlwind few months came up, Majors summed it up simply: “It’s just the season,” he told Variety’s Angelique Jackson at Newport Beach on Sunday.
Well, it certainly has been Majors’ season. The actor was honored at the festival with an Artist of Distinction award for his role in “Devotion,” in which he portrays pioneering fighter pilot Jesse Brown, the Navy’s first Black aviator. Following that part, the actor has a stacked slate of films in the works, including his eagerly-anticipated arrival...
- 10/18/2022
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
David Gordon Green’s ‘Exorcist’ Reboot, Starring Ellen Burstyn, to Start Filming in ‘a Couple Weeks’
As the “Halloween” franchise comes to a conclusion with “Halloween Ends,” director David Gordon Green is ready to reintroduce another horror classic on screen: “The Exorcist.”
“We start in a couple of weeks, and we’re ready to roll up our sleeves and dive into the next great franchise,” Green told Variety senior entertainment writer Angelique Jackson at the “Halloween Ends” premiere Tuesday night. “We’ve got an amazing cast coming together and scripts we’re all excited about.”
Universal spent 400 million on the forthcoming “Exorcist” trilogy, produced by Blumhouse, with Ellen Burstyn set to reprise her role as Chris MacNeil, the mother who hired two Catholic priests to perform an exorcism on her demonically possessed 12-year-old (Linda Blair) in the 1973 original movie.
“[I’m] honored to step into something that’s so valuable within cinema history,” Green explained. “And knowing that there is a fanbase that is curious, aware, alert, potentially...
“We start in a couple of weeks, and we’re ready to roll up our sleeves and dive into the next great franchise,” Green told Variety senior entertainment writer Angelique Jackson at the “Halloween Ends” premiere Tuesday night. “We’ve got an amazing cast coming together and scripts we’re all excited about.”
Universal spent 400 million on the forthcoming “Exorcist” trilogy, produced by Blumhouse, with Ellen Burstyn set to reprise her role as Chris MacNeil, the mother who hired two Catholic priests to perform an exorcism on her demonically possessed 12-year-old (Linda Blair) in the 1973 original movie.
“[I’m] honored to step into something that’s so valuable within cinema history,” Green explained. “And knowing that there is a fanbase that is curious, aware, alert, potentially...
- 10/12/2022
- by Michaela Zee
- Variety Film + TV
Tracee Ellis Ross is busier than ever despite closing the chapter on “Black-ish.” The actor, producer, entrepreneur and CEO’s focus has turned toward a list of projects including the Hulu/ OWN/ Onyx Collective docuseries “Hair Tales” (which she’s producing through her production company Joy Mill Entertainment), voicing the lead character in MTV’s animated Daria-spinoff movie “Jodie” and launching the podcast “I Am America.” In addition, she’s celebrating the three-year anniversary of her hair care company Pattern Beauty.
During her keynote conversation at Variety’s Entertainment and Technology Summit presented by City National Bank, Ross explained how she keeps all these different pursuits in “harmony.”
“I don’t strive for balance because it’s impossible, but a sense of harmony,” Ellis Ross told Variety senior entertainment reporter Angelique Jackson. “One of the biggest things that I do is do my best to walk consciously from A to B.
During her keynote conversation at Variety’s Entertainment and Technology Summit presented by City National Bank, Ross explained how she keeps all these different pursuits in “harmony.”
“I don’t strive for balance because it’s impossible, but a sense of harmony,” Ellis Ross told Variety senior entertainment reporter Angelique Jackson. “One of the biggest things that I do is do my best to walk consciously from A to B.
- 9/16/2022
- by BreAnna Bell
- Variety Film + TV
Next year, Nicolas Cage will be portraying the world’s most famous vampire Dracula in “Renfield,” a horror comedy about the count’s lovestruck familiar. And while the role has been portrayed in film by hundreds of actors over the years — from Bela Lugosi to Gary Oldman — the idiosyncratic actor is set to leave his own unique mark on the horror legend.
During an interview to promote his western drama “Butcher’s Crossing,” Cage spoke in the Variety TIFF Studio, presented by King’s Hawaiian, about developing his own take on the iconic Transylvanian accent of the vampiric count. Specifically, he revealed he took inspiration from Christopher Lee’s famous portrayals of the character while adding other elements to the part — including his own father, academic August Coppola.
“[It’s] kind of an amalgamation of a sort mid-Atlantic August Coppola accent combined with some Christopher Lee, with some Anne Bancroft thrown in for...
During an interview to promote his western drama “Butcher’s Crossing,” Cage spoke in the Variety TIFF Studio, presented by King’s Hawaiian, about developing his own take on the iconic Transylvanian accent of the vampiric count. Specifically, he revealed he took inspiration from Christopher Lee’s famous portrayals of the character while adding other elements to the part — including his own father, academic August Coppola.
“[It’s] kind of an amalgamation of a sort mid-Atlantic August Coppola accent combined with some Christopher Lee, with some Anne Bancroft thrown in for...
- 9/9/2022
- by Wilson Chapman
- Variety Film + TV
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