Thursday, December 22, 2011

'The Hobbit' Trailer: 5 Most Nostalgic Moments

It's been 10 years since the first "Master in the Rings" film first hit theaters, and because decade the film series has become most likely probably the most treasured accomplishments to ever sophistication the large screen. The franchise ongoing to win a complete of 17 Oscars, including Best Director for Healing For Healing For Peter Jackson and greatest Picture for "Return in the King," and contains also made greater than $1 billion in your area. Clearly, it's a series that lots of people be worried about. Watch the "Hobbit" trailer! This is why it absolutely was so heart-warming to find out a clip for "The Hobbit: An Unforeseen Journey" sophistication our computer screens the first time now. We already listed in the five best unveils inside the trailer, but what really arrived at us was how nostalgic it made us feel. Jackson knows simply how much this audience has missed their time place in Middle Earth as well as the studio is playing up around they could. Correctly, we as fans are loving every second from this. Following a jump, we list off our five most nostalgic moments inside the trailer. The Transition From Not Used To Old The teaser discloses with Frodo (Elijah Wood) and Bilbo (Ian Holm) travelling their property, Bag Finish, as Bilbo notifies his youthful cousin that you will find a little more to his adventure with Gandalf as well as the dwarves than he initially told him. Signal a transition in time to a considerably youthful Bilbo (Martin Freeman) plus you've got the opening with this trailer. Our heartstrings were certainly attracted. Returning For The Shire It's ironic that fans in the "Master in the Rings" series can perform the primary one factor its star, Frodo, was not ever capable of: return to the Shire if the used to be innocent and happy. While Frodo as well as the Shire were forever changed following a war against Sauron, we fans can return to the wonderful capital of scotland - Hobbiton in many its happy glory once again. It was not until footage in the area started moving that individuals truly recognized simply how much we'd missed it. Familiar Faces, New Plot Lines Will there be apt to be some romantic tension happening between Gandalf (Ian McKellan) and Galadriel (Cate Blanchett)? Within the looks of things inside the trailer, there might be. In truth, though, we don't really mind the chance deviation from Tolkien canon. We are just very happy to start to see the faces of a few typically the most popular figures again entirely wizard and elven regalia, correspondingly. It can help that both figures are mentioned to own some pretty major roles inside the coming two "Hobbit" films too. Broken Swords, Blue Stings Furthermore to all or any the familiar locations we view inside the trailer for "The Hobbit" -- the Shire, Rivendell, Gollum's cave -- you'll find a few familiar weapons that have snuck inside too. Bilbo marvels within the broken sword Narsil in Rivendell with techniques that's much like Frodo's first sighting from this in "Master in the Rings." Clearly, everyone knows it is not until Aragon appears some six decades later the sword eventually eventually ends up getting fixed, but we still love the nostalgia which will come carrying out a sighting in the important weapon. Another similarly wonderful moment comes about when Bilbo pulls his sword Sting from the sheath for apparently the first time. Bilbo will later pass the weapon away and off to Frodo when the youthful hobbit embarks by themself great adventure with Gandalf, but for the moment the sword is Bilbo's and Bilbo's alone. The Precious There's one scene from "The Master in the Rings" that we believe certainly will probably be recreated in "The Hobbit": Bilbo's first encounter with Gollum (Andy Serkis). It's most likely probably the most pivotal moments inside the entire good status for Middle Earth, and most likely probably the most legendary moments in "The Hobbit." Clearly, the big reveal of Gollum and also the precious -- the primary one ring to rule these -- is saved prior to the finish in the trailer, which is correctly effective. It seems like Jackson did a location-on job of re-creating that scene in the last films too, that's comforting. Reactions for the "Hobbit" trailer! What moments in "The Hobbit" trailer perhaps you have find most nostalgic? Reveal inside the comments section below or on Twitter!

Prince Harry & Beckham Party Working In London

First Released: December 22, 2011 11:32 AM EST Credit: Off-shore Coast News Caption Prince Harry is spotted departing the humanities Club within the Mayfair section of London on December 21, 2011LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Classy and Pippa were nowhere to appear on Wednesday evening when Prince Harry, David Beckham and James Middleton walked out for any men evening around town working in london. Fresh off his stateside helicopter training, Prince Harry go to Londons Arts Club in Mayfair, where he met track of the soccer star, Pippa Middletons brother James and British actor/personality James Corden. The men were spotted hanging out in the club until 3 AM. Based on Britains The Daily Mail, Prince Harry was spotted inside putting on a Santa hat. As formerly reported on AccessHollywood.com, reviews appeared on Wednesday that Becks approved an offer for any one-and-a-half year contract using the team Paris St. Germain. Also on Wednesday, Prince Harry introduced he was headed to Afghanistan for again. The 27-year-old Royal stated he'd likely go back to the war-torn country at some stage in 2012. Copyright 2011 by NBC Universal, Corporation. All privileges reserved. These components might not be released, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Monday, December 19, 2011

TV Guide Network Orders More Hollywood Moms Evening, Wilson Phillips: Still Securing

Carnie Wilson, Wendy Wilson and Chynna Phillips Hollywood Moms Evening and Wilson Phillips: Still Securing, which broadcast as special deals on tv Guide Network in November, is going to be extended into weekly series, the network introduced Monday.Alison Sweeney on Hollywood Moms Evening: "Nothing's not allowedInchArtist Moms Evening is certainly an unscripted series through which close buddies Alison Sweeney (The Finest Loser) and Ali Landry (former Miss USA) host dinner get-togethers for famous mother pals. 5-episode series will premiere in March.Wilson Phillips capitalizes on great year with new TV Guide specialWilson Phillips: Still Securing will document the right path in the Grammy-winning trio Wilson Phillips (Carnie Wilson, Wendy Wilson, and Chynna Phillips) simply because they run a comeback after 2 decades in the spotlight. The series, which premieres in April, might have an eight-episode run and may coincide while using relieve their new album Devoted.

Friday, December 16, 2011

Clive Owen and Mia Wasikowska Offered Roles in Spike Lee's 'Oldboy' Remake

As Colin Firth probably taught you: just because a movie star gets offered the chance to work with Spike Lee and Josh Brolin on their remake of Park Chan-wook's 'Oldboy,' doesn't necessarily mean that he or she will come aboard. Twitch reports that both Clive Owen and Mia Wasikowska were offered the two remaining leading roles in 'Oldboy' on Friday, following passes from both Firth and Rooney Mara. In the original film, a man is kidnapped and imprisoned for 15 years; upon release, he teams with a young girl to hunt down his captor. Brolin would play the imprisoned man, Owen would play his captor and Wasikowska would play the young girl should all the deals be signed and sealed. Interestingly, Owen worked with Lee previously on 'Inside Man,' while Wasikowska just finished 'Stoker,' the English-language debut of Chan-wook. Whether or not these deals get consummated remains to be seen. 'Oldboy' is due out in theaters sometime next year. [via Twitch] [Photo: Getty] Follow Moviefone on Twitter Like Moviefone on Facebook

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Bird, Cruise fete 'MI4' preem in Dubai

Tom Cruise, right, attends the Dubai fest for your preem of Pars Mission: Impossible Ghost Protocol. There has been no hints from the economic crisis this year within the eighth Dubai Film Festival, which attracted out all the stops for your world preem of Paramount's "Mission: Impossible -- Ghost Protocol" at its opening soiree.Global industryites collected inside the city's Madinat Jumeriah resort on Wednesday evening for your event, attended by helmer Kaira Bird and cast people Tom Cruise, Simon Pegg, Paula Patton and Anil Kapoor.Opening our prime-octane actioner in Dubai was fitting: many of the fourth pic inside the $2 billion franchise was lensed inside the city, with Cruise, recognized for undertaking lots of their very own stunts, dangling in the Burj Khalifa, our planet's greatest tower, in one scene.But festgoers, including UAE v . p . and pm, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, required to wait for privilege.The fledgling fest, like lots of its options, experienced business difficulties as well as the program went nearly an hour or so approximately late.The cast grew to become part of Bird, the pic's professional producers and scribes on stage to unveil the film, with Bird saying because of individuals of Dubai for "helping us make the thing that was a very demanding shoot."Veteran Egyptian thesp Gamil Ratib, who starred in "Lawrence of Arabia," and Indian composer A.R. Rahman both received lifetime achievement honours.Carrying out a screening, participants meandered towards the beach with an after party that went prior to the early several hours. While rain rained round the glitterati -- a distinctive occurrence for your desert region -- it didn't dampen the climate or perhaps the spectacular fireworks display.Fest runs until 12 ,. 14. Contact Diana Lodderhose at diana.lodderhose@variety.com

Lindsay Lohans Playboy Cover Leaked Online

First Launched: December 7, 2011 6:14 PM EST Credit: Getty Images La, Calif. -- Caption Lindsay Lohan sits in the courtroom throughout her probation breach hearing within the Airport terminal terminal Courthouse in La on November 2, 2011Fans of Lindsay Lohan have become an early on think about the cover in the stars approaching Playboy problem. The policy for your actress The month of the month of january/February problem made an appearance online on Wednesday, together with a repetition for Playboy confirmed to get into Hollywood the released photo is certainly a professional copy and was released without permission. The initial official images of Lindsays Playboy shoot will debut on December 15. Have a look at Lindsays Playboy cover featuring the actress perched around the chair getting a bunny emblem smartly covering her body HERE! A repetition for your actress formerly told Access, The pictorial is totally fantastic and extremely stylish, and you'll be based on the interview that will let site visitors see another side of Lindsay. In November, the 25-year-old actress offered a four-hour jail sentence carrying out a judge ruled the actress reaches breach of probation. Copyright 2011 by NBC Universal, Corporation. All rights reserved. These elements is probably not launched, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

'Sons of Anarchy' Creator Kurt Sutter on Season 4's Bold Finale and Season 5 Plans

Ray Mickshaw/FOX An old Universal Network Television worker might soon reach provide a jury claims that behind the curtain of Television show House there's "hard-consuming, over-sexed, cussing, gun-carrying males" who made existence a hardship on her.our editor recommends'House' Star Hugh Laurie States He'll Retire From TV Acting Once Show EndsOlivia Wilde Makes Final 'House' Appearance Monday: 'I View It like a Vital Chapter during my Life' (Video) In This summer 2010,Carl Johnson, who spent 4 years being employed as an assistant property master around the Fox medical mystery show, suedHouseproducer Universal and 2 of their staffers, declaring he was victim to sexual harassment and was fired when he spoke up about allegedly obnoxious behavior for his administrators. After nearly annually . 5 of extensive discovery and pre-trial motions, La Superior Court JudgeRichard Fruinindicated a week ago his readiness to possess a jury decide whether Johnson was retaliated against for objecting to some hostile place of work. Johnson makes some wild accusations in the suit about back-stage behavior on the program. He targets his supervisorsTyler PattonandMike Caseyfor repeated bad functions and states his genital area were groped which he was known as a "bitch," "faggot," "slave," and "pussy." Within the prop trailer where Johnson labored, the complaintant alleges that adult magazines and adult movies were around which his administrators were hard consumers who'd invite women in the wardrobe along with other production departments there to take part in intercourse. Johnson allegeshe was instructed to cleanup semen and condom wrappers and was made fun of when he rejected to visit to a close off-set strip club. The set ofHouseis also referred to like a harmful spot to work. Against Universal's guidelines, Patton allegedly introduced a genuine gun there and would throw knifes between bouts of tequila consuming. Johnson states he was fired in March 2010, by an very drunk Patton, after which it he complained to Garret van der Meer, the show's co-executive producer/unit production manager. Johnson states his complaints were overlooked, and also the former staffer thinks that speaking up by what happening, including getting in touch with his union, brought to retaliation, incorporated being "blackballed all Universal Productions." Johnson states he obtained another job after his dismissal, but consequently to be positioned on a blacklist, he wasn't capable of getting use of the Fox lot, so then he lost that second job. Universal wanted an overview judgment dismissal of the suit, stating that Johnson had unsuccessful to exhaust his administrative remedies, that his claims were time-barred, which the complaintant couldn't show "discriminatory motive according to his gender or perceived sexual orientation." The studio stated that every season was a completely independent one when it comes to employment which the choice to not rehire Johnson for Season 7 of House couldn't be associated with Johnson' accusations of sexual innuendo around the set. The defendant thinks that Johnson' ideas about why he was ignored are basically speculative. For his or her part,Patton and Casey intensely refused they involved in the above mentioned-referred to offensive conduct. In a hearing a week ago, Judge Fruin considered a few of the evidence posted in depositions to date and tentatively made the decision you will find enough triable issues to reject Universal's motions to dismiss discrimination, harassment and retaliation claims. He put out claims in line with the Unruh Civil Privileges Act, and requested additional briefings for any hearing scheduled for December 16. When the judge stays to his tentative ruling, the situation might be on the right track to become heard with a jury the coming year. Johnson is symbolized byLawrence Organat Equality Law, and Universal has been repped byLori BowmanandMarrian Changat Ogletree, Deakins. E-mail: eriqgardner@yahoo.com Twitter: @eriqgardner House

Palm Springs honors Octavia Spencer

SpencerOctavia Spencer will probably be honored while using Breakthrough Performance Award in the users hand Springs Film Festival. Spencer can get the award inside a gala on Jan. 7."Octavia Spencer can be a consummate actress who very easily blends her dramatic and comedy talents, creating performances of uncommon depth," mentioned chairman Harold Matzner.Being recognized in Palm Springs signifies another proper step toward a potential supporting actress Academy Award nomination for Spencer, whose role in "The AssistanceInch has acquired her honours buzz since the film's debut this summer season. The well-timed festival, which runs Jan. 5-16, occupies an important devote honours season because it comes about when Golden Globe and Oscar voters have ballots in hands.Formerly introduced honorees include George Clooney, Glenn Close, Michel Hazanavicius and Michelle Williams. Contact Christy Grosz at christy.grosz@variety.com

Friday, December 2, 2011

Christopher Plummer's Sound of Music Problem, and 5 Other Stories You'll Be Talking About Today

Happy Friday! Also in today’s edition of The Broadsheet: Helena Bonham Carter has some concerns about Dark Shadows… Hailee Steinfeld is close to playing Ender’s Game… The latest on the quest for the Razzies… War Horse finally finds some awards traction (sort of)… and more. · Christ, it is dead out there. At we’ll always have Christopher Plummer stealing THR’s actor roundtable — no small accomplishment opposite fellow panelists George Clooney, Nick Nolte and Albert Brooks — with a reflection on his hugely challenging role in… The Sound of Music? “Because it was so awful and sentimental and gooey. You had to work terribly hard to try and infuse some miniscule bit of humor into it. […] It’s a very good picture [for] what it is.” Now you know. [THR] · Discussing her latest collaboration with partner Tim Burton, Helena Bonham Carter had this to offer about the vampire saga Dark Shadows: “This is a thing he raced home to see when he was about age 10, so it’s returning to his childhood roots of what he loved watching. It’s actually a really bad, hilariously bad soap opera, and because it’s so bad, he felt he had to make a hugely expensive movie. […] It’s going to be unlike [anything], I think. It’s dangerous to say that. But it’s very original and it’s kind of uncategorizable. It’s going to be impossible to sell, frankly, because it’s just so … it’s a soap opera, but it’s very, very subtle. I don’t know. We’ll see.” [MTV Movies] · Hailee Steinfeld is the latest name touched by speculation around Ender’s Game, reportedly close to joining the adaptation of Orson Scott Card’s sci-fi classic that has already locked in Hugo star Asa Butterfield in the lead. [Variety] · New Year’s Eve stands out among the December release eyeing multiple coveted Razzie Awards nominations. Go get ‘em, Garry Marshall! [Grantland] · In other, more baffling kudos news, the Satellite Awards nominations were announced Thursday, with War Horse faring especially well among the competition that includes, well, pretty much every other movie with its hat in the awards season ring. Ridiculous, but like I said, it’s dead out there. [indieWIRE] · Speaking of awards season, here’s a worthwhile piece basically explaining why you should stop worrying and love the Hollywood marketing bomb. [Variety]

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Drive Fan-Made Animated Trailer: Facestomping for Kids!

Drive fanaticism is still in (groan) overdrive. The team of Bruno et Tom have created an alternative trailer for Drive featuring The Driver’s silver scorpion jacket, well-lit stoicism, and a bit of musical mimicry. He’s an animated hero! And an animated human being! Coming soon to the Fox Kids lineup. Check all out the cartoon facestomping after the jump. Yes, it may not be the most Oscar-friendly fan favorite of this year’s films, but Drive’s iconography is pretty unmistakable at this point. I can’t say that about any other film of this year, and I don’t even like Drive better than Coriolanus, Margin Call, Martha Marcy May Marlene, or Young Adult. Fact is, Drive’s resonance is already outlasting these other markedly better, less pretentious films, and for that it deserves more recognition — or at least more cute, fan-made animated trailers. Where is the Muppets parody of Fozzie facestomping Rowlf? Anyone? Animated Alternative Trailer for ‘Drive’ [Bleeding Cool]

Lifetime Orders Additional 10 Instances of 'Army Wives'

Lifetime"Military Spouses" Lifetime has purchased ten additional instances of Military Spouses, that will bring the sixth season episode total to 23.our editor recommendsLifetime, 'Army Wives' Producer Developing Affair Drama (Exclusive)'Army Wives' Star Catherine Bell Separating From HusbandLifetime Renews 'Army Spouses,' Greenlights Jenny Bicks Drama Pilot The drama is presently in production and sources say it isn't obvious when the additional ten episodes will run concurrent using the initial 13 or perhaps be split up into two seasons. No series stars are contracted past the current season, which began shooting this fall and was scheduled to wrap by early the coming year. The 5th season from the Military Spouses, which in fact had its finale last June, averaged 3.six million audiences. That marked double-digit, year-over-year increases among total audiences, the18-49 and ladies 18-49 census. Lifetime has battled to produce new scripted hits this season compelling professionals to consider a tough consider the development slate. The Ally Master drama The Protector released last June to at least one.9 million audiences, holding onto only 1 / 2 of its lead in from incumbent hit Military Spouses. Fellow newcomer drama Facing the Wall also set up underwhelming amounts (1.8 million) if this bowed last This summer. PHOTO GALLERY: View Gallery Fall TV Preview 2011: The Coming back Shows Lifetime Military Spouses

Thursday, November 24, 2011

'Harry Potter' Stays Put at Top of Home Entertainment Charts

Industrial Light and Magic/ParamountJ.J. Abrams' 2009 "Star Trek" Paramount has plotted a course for May 17, 2013, for its next Star Trek sequel, which it plans to shoot in 3D. The release date slots the sci-fi franchise into a very busy tentpole-filled May 2013, coming right after Marvel/Disney's Iron Man 3 and Warner Bros.' Guillermo del Toro-directed Pacific Rim.our editor recommendsComic-Con 2011: 'Terra Nova' EPs Talk 'Star Trek' Memories, Killing Captain Kirk and Their Hopes for the Upcoming Fox DramaHollywood's A-List Redefined PHOTOS: Hollywood's A-List Redefined Earlier this year, director-producer J.J. Abrams, who directed the first Trek reboot, was tied up with Super 8 and hadn't committed to directing the new episode, forcing the studio to abandon its original date of June 29, 2012. But the studio's announcement of a new release date for Summer 2013 indicates that Abrams is happy with the status of the script from Roberto Orci, Alex Kurtzman and Damon Lindelof. The 2009 Star Trek movie grossed $386 million worldwide. Paramount, looking to the way Christopher Nolan and Warner Bros. relaunched the Batman franchise with Batman Begins, is hoping the newly refurbished Starship Enterprise will reach even greater heights with this second installment. PHOTO GALLERY: View Gallery Hollywood's A-List Redefined J.J. Abrams Paramount Pictures Star Trek

Monday, November 21, 2011

Conrad Murray Seeking New Test On Key Evidence Vial

First Launched: November 21, 2011 1:54 PM EST Credit: Getty Images Caption Defense attorney J. Michael Flanagan, Dr. Conrad Murray and defense attorney Erection dysfunction Chernoff in the courtroom on November 3, 2011 in Los AngelesLOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Just days before sentencing, lawyers for your physician billed of resulting in Michael Jacksons dying need a judge to order independent testing from the vial in the effective anesthetic that destroyed the singer. Lawyers for Dr. Conrad Murray will request a judge inside a hearing Monday to create to have an independent lab the vial of propofol that government physiques contend was utilized round the morning of Jacksons dying. Attorney J. Michael Flanagan written in the court filing the tests are crucial to judge the prosecution theory that Murray placed Jackson by having an IV drip of propofol as well as the painkiller lidocaine then left the region. Prosecution expert Dr. Steven Shafer stated through the six-week trial of Murray the only real plausible scenario to explain Jacksons dying might be the physician left the pop celebrity round the IV drip. Shafer mentioned he removed other situations, like the defense theory that Jackson in some manner gave themselves the fatal dose in the anesthetic used just like a sleep aid. Caffeine makeup in the propofol vial has become strongly related confirm or negate the truth of Dr. Shafers recommended scenario, Flanagan written. Publicists for Murray and also the lawyers the outcomes may from the first step toward an advantage of the Houston-based cardiologists conviction. Prosecutors and Flanagan were prone to argue in regards to the request throughout an 11 a.m. hearing. Murray was billed on friday of involuntary wrongful dying. He remains jailed while awaiting sentencing on November. 29 and faces a possible sentence different from probation up to four years. Copyright 2011 with the Connected Press. All rights reserved. These elements is probably not launched, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Miramax Strikes Streaming Content Deal With Brazil's NetMovies

NY - Miramax and NetMovies Entertainment, Brazil's largest online subscription service for movies and TV series, on Monday unveiled a multi-year licensing agreement that will give NetMovies customers streaming access to various titles from the studio's library. Titles covered by the deal include Pulp Fiction, The English Patient, City of God, Amelie, There Will Be Blood and Kill Bill. They will be available on the service beginning Dec. 1, the companies said. Financial terms weren't disclosed. Under CEO Mike Lang, Miramax has been striking a range of online licensing deals. NetMovies, which offers its streaming video across PCs, Macs, smart TVs, connected Blu-Ray players, iOS and Android tablets and smartphones - with plans to add video game consoles, said it currently has more than 35,000 titles in its online content library. "As a devoted fan of independent cinema, I could not be more excited to bring our loyal customers such classic titles as the films included in the Miramax canon," said Daniel Topel, NetMovies founder and CEO. "We are very pleased that Miramax movies will now be available to the large network of customers from Brazil devoted to NetMovies' strong platform and great service," said Lang."This is another key step as we take advantage of digital channels to maximize our library around the world and bring Miramax movies to new and growing audiences, especially to such an exciting and emerging market as Brazil." Email: Georg.Szalai@thr.com Twitter: @georgszalai Related Topics Miramax Films

Sunday, November 20, 2011

Package Harington On For Arthur & Lancelot

He cannot wait to become king...Following a hefty search among rising more youthful talents, director David Dobkin has finally kept in anyone to take part in the guy who definitely are King Arthur in Arthur & Lancelot. His choice? Package Harington.Although some prior experience swinging a sword around wasn't apt to be the ultimate determining factor, it surely did not hurt that Harington continues to be getting lots of practice via his role as Jon Snow in HBO's Bet On Thrones.Harington will join Joel Kinnaman (who stars in america remake from the Killing) within the tale of Arthur's beginning. Born an illegitimate boy and elevated with a humble, poor dark night, Arthur is gradually turning out to be the inspiring leader he'll eventually become. Lancelot, however, is of noble birth, but shot through having a edgy spirit. Searching to obtain a more light-hearted, action-packed A Virtual Detective-well developed spin around the story, Warner Bros. has additionally offered the role of Merlin to Gary Oldman.Based on the Warmth Vision blog, the competition within the heart of Guinevere won't truly come up until any sequels. She'll appear, but briefly.Dobkin is striving to start shooting next March. Harington is going to be in the following season of Thrones as well as appear in Quiet Hill: Thought three dimensional, which does not yet possess a solid United kingdom release date.

Bob Iger States He's in 'No Rush' to switch Regis Philbin on 'Live!'

While Regis Philbin ended his 28-year run hosting his ABC morning show Friday, his co-host Kelly Ripa just kept in a five-year deal at Live! with Disney-ABC Domestic Television.our editor recommends'SNL': 'Live! With Regis and Kelly' Holds Auditions for Regis Philbins Alternative (Video)Disney Chief Bob Iger Joins Apple BoardWho Will Replace Robert Iger as Disney's Boss? This means the show will extend through 2017, and so the search is on for just about any quality, longtime co-host for Ripa. And Disney Boss Bob Iger states he's in no hurry to secure Philbin's alternative. STORY: Regis Philbin's Last Show: Luminaries Avoid 'Live!' Host "We're not prone to hurry this," Iger told The NY Occasions after Friday morning's tape of Live! With Regis and Kelly. "It could take six several days or longer. There is no deadline. Once the press starts writing in six several days that there's nothing happening, that won't matter. We'll take our time." Iger added that jumping to another title might be disrespectful for the nearly 3 decades the 80-year-old Philbin devoted towards the live talk show. "It's simpler to place somewhat space inside,Inch he mentioned. But he added: "This is often a champion. We're speaking with lots of people who wish it." STORY: Why Regis Philbin States Farewell to 'Live!': Inside the Talk Show Host's Departure To begin with is Jerry Seinfeld, who certainly are walking in as Ripa's co-host inside a couple of days, as the Way I Met Your Mother's Neil Patrick Harris will probably be co-hosting the following week. But Iger, who had most in recruiting Ripa for your show, mentioned that obtaining a large-title celebrity co-host might not continually be the finest move for your show. "Nobody understood Kelly," Iger mentioned. "Everybody thought i'd select a different title. But we needed our time. And Kelly switched that need considering a homer.Inch Related Subjects Bob Iger Regis Philbin Kelly Ripa Accept Regis and Kelly Disney-ABC Domestic Television

Friday, November 18, 2011

Joe Paterno Cancer Diagnosis Revealed Amid Penn State Sex Scandal

Shortly after becoming the target of a media firestorm last week, Joe Paterno, 84, also learned that he has a treatable form of lung cancer.our editor recommendsJoe Paterno Firing Draws Mixed Reaction Around InternetHoward Stern on Jerry Sandusky: 'They Should Cut His B---- Off' (Video)Jon Stewart Slams Jerry Sandusky for Bob Costas Interview: 'You Can't Even Bring Yourself to Lie Emphatically' (Video) The legendary Penn State football coach was fired by the University's board of trustees on Nov. 9, amid a child abuse sex scandal involving former assistant coach Jerry Sandusky. Paterno was criticized for failing to properly report Sandusky, who has been charged with sexually abusing eight young boys. PHOTOS: Hollywood's Biggest Fantasy Football Fans Paterno's son released a statement to the AP on Friday, reading, "Last weekend, my father was diagnosed with a treatable form of lung cancer during a follow-up visit for a bronchial illness." "As everyone can appreciate, this is a deeply personal matter for my parents, and we simply ask that his privacy be respected as he proceeds with treatment," the statement continued. Paterno is currently undergoing treatment and is expected to make a full recovery. OPINION: Ashton Kutcher and the End of Celebrity Tweeting The news of Paterno's firing sent shockwaves through Hollywood, drawing mixed reactions among fans, pundits and stars. Ashton Kutcher, specifically, caused controversy with his uninformed reaction to the firing, in which he wrote, "I find it in poor taste." The actor ultimately decided to hand over his Twitter account to management following the comment. Related Topics Joe Paterno Jerry Sandusky

Captain: Wagner Accountable For Natalie Wood Dying

First Released: November 18, 2011 11:04 AM EST Credit: WireImage La, Calif. -- Caption Natalie Wood and Robert Wagner throughout Look Magazine Party at Jimmys Restaurant in Beverly Hillsides, Feb 14, 1979A yacht captain stated on national TV Friday he lied to researchers about Natalie Forest mysterious dying 3 decades ago and places blame the actress husband at that time, Robert Wagner, on her drowning within the sea off Los Angeles. The conditions of her dying remain among Hollywoods long lasting mysteries and then create restored intrigue, with homicide detectives Thursday suddenly reopening the situation which had lengthy been classified like a tragic accident. A La County sheriffs detective will talk to reporters Friday about the choice to visit again the Oscar-nominated actress night time demise within the chilly waters on November. 29, 1981. Wood drowned after investing several hrs consuming on Catalina Island along with a yacht with Wagner, fellow actor Christopher Walken and also the ships captain, Dennis Davern. Davern told NBC Televisions Today show on Friday he made mistakes by not being truthful about occasions resulting in the dying coupled with advised La County sheriffs homicide researchers to reopen the situation. Was your dream between Natalie Wood and her husband Robert Wagner what ultimately brought to her dying? show host David Gregory requested. Yes, Davern responded. How so? Like I stated, thats likely to be as much as the researchers to determine, the captain stated. Davern stated he thinks Wagner had deliberately stored the analysis into Forest dying low profile and didnt fit everything in he might have done. When Gregory pressed Davern for supporting particulars, the captain stated which was the job of researchers. The Connected Press couldn't immediately achieve Davern Friday. Wagner spokesperson Alan Nierob stated Friday an argument he launched Thursday spoke by itself. Although nobody within the Wagner family members have been told by the LA County Sheriffs department relating to this matter, they fully offer the efforts from the LA County Sheriffs Dept. and trust they'll evaluate whether any new information relevant towards the dying of Natalie Wood Wagner applies, which it develops from a credible source or sources apart from individuals simply attempting to make money from the thirty year anniversary of her tragic dying, Nierob authored within the statement. Sheriffs spokesperson Steve Whitmore stated Thursday the restored inquiry was motivated by unspecified new details about Forest situation. The La Occasions cited Sheriff Lee Baca as saying recent comments by Davern, who had been questioned for any book project and whose comments from the 2000 article by Vanity Fair are now being featured inside a new print edition along with a 48 Hrs Mystery episode that concentrate on Hollywood scams. Within the magazine, Davern is cited as stating that Wood and Wagner fought against within their cabin prior to the actress disappeared. Coroners authorities ruled her dying an accidental drowning, possibly triggered by her sliding from the boat while attempting to tie lower a dinghy. Forest dying sparked tabloid speculation that foul play was involved, but Wagner and Forest sister have ignored any suggestion the actress dying was anything further than any sort of accident. Coroners authorities at that time agreed, writing that Wood was possibly trying to board the dinghy coupled with fallen in to the water, striking her face. Assistant Chief Coroner Erectile dysfunction Winter stated that to his understanding, the company hadnt been requested to complete any extra analysis into Forest situation. It's not the very first time Davern has contradicted claims he yet others designed to researchers after Forest dying, and also the magazine notes he has told his story through tabloids and it has been looking for a book deal for a long time. Sheriffs authorities will also be wishing for tips in the public that could shed new light how Wood, who had been scared of being within the water, wound up drowning. Wood, a 3-time Oscar nominee famous for roles in West Side Story, 'Rebel With no Cause along with other Hollywood hits, was 43 when she died. She and Wagner, star from the TV series Hart to Hart, were two times married, first in 1957 before divorcing six years later. They remarried in 1972. Lana Wood authored inside a biography on her behalf sister, What went down is the fact that Natalie drank an excessive amount of that evening. Wagner authored inside a 2008 autobiography he blamed themself for his wifes dying. He recounted the evening of Forest disappearance, throughout that the couple and Walken drank in a restaurant and included. Wood visited the actual cabin throughout a disagreement between her husband and Walken. The final time Wagner saw his wife, she was fixing her hair in a bathroom vanity and she or he shut the doorway. Wagner authored that despite various ideas by what brought Wood towards the water, which she feared, it had been impossible to be aware what exactly happened. Nobody knows, he authored. You will find only two options either she was trying to escape the argument, or she was attempting to tie the dinghy. But the end result is that nobody knows precisely what happened. Later within the book, Wagner authored,Did I blame myself? If I used to be there, I possibly could did something. However I wasnt there. I did not see her. He authored he hasn't came back to Catalina Island. Phone and emails to Walkens publicist weren't came back Thursday. Walken and Wood were co-stars in Brainstorm, that was the actress final giant screen role. ___ AP reporter Alicia Rancilio led for this report. Copyright 2011 through the Connected Press. All privileges reserved. These components might not be released, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Thursday, November 17, 2011

Trey Parker & Matt Stone: Duo's fan-friendly spirit rules 'Book'

Parker & Stone'The Book of Mormon'After 15 seasons on Comedy Central, "South Park" creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone took Broadway by storm this year with a little show called "The Book of Mormon," which swept the Tonys and became a box office juggernaut.Over the years, Parker and Stone have established a rep as particularly fan-attentive creators, going out of their way to cater to the big, broad demo that's the foundation of their success. This year that's evidenced in "The Year of the Fan," a "South Park" initiative that has included such enthusiast-bait as a pop-up version of South Park (the town) at Comic- Con, as well as an unheard-of, one-time-only free perf of "Mormon" for an audience of lottery-selected fans.The duo also has staked out a strong online presence for the show's content, releasing "South Park" episodes soon after they air via ad-supported streaming video. "It's about creating content that fans will like and making sure it's available to them on all the platforms they want to watch it on," says Comedy Central prexy Michele Ganeless. "We want to make sure our fans get 'South Park' from us, and not from someone else." Contact Gordon Cox at gordon.cox@variety.com

George Clooney's 'The Descendants' Opens Strong

Behold, the power of George Clooney. In line with the Hollywood Reporter, the actor's latest movie, 'The Descendants,' is away and off to a effective come from limited release. Despite opening in only five theaters on Wednesday evening, the film made $39,777, with typically $7,955 per location. That could not look like a lot of dough (specifically considering the chance $125+ million opening of 'Breaking Beginning, Part I' a couple of days ago), but it's pretty solid taking into consideration the quantity of theaters. To put it in perspective, 'J. Edgar' made $52,645 from seven theaters with an average $7,521 if the opened up up in limited release last Wednesday, that's underneath the 'Descendants' haul. (Take that Leo!) Starring Clooney, Judy Greer, Matthew Lillard and Shailene Woodley (who spoke about Clooney's fart machine this year's week), 'The Descendants' follows the story of Matt King (Clooney) who looks to reunite along with his kids after his wife falls in to a coma. The film will open country wide November. 23. [via THR] [Photo: Fox Searchlight] Follow Moviefone on Twitter Like Moviefone on Facebook

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

'Star Trek 2' Starts Production In The month of january

Escape your Starfleet uniforms as well as your Vulcan ears, because "Star Trek 2" comes with an official filming start date. TrekMovie has found that shooting is placed to begin on The month of january 15 for any 2013 release date. This virtually lines track of what we should know, but it is nice to possess confirmation on the planned start date thinking about just how much "Trek 2" continues to be pressed back. Apparently authors Roberto Orci, Alex Kurtzman and Damon Lindelof will also be busy going for a third pass in the script, but TrekMovie thinks that they are only trying out minor things and also the movie in general is placed to visit. A lot of the look work continues to be completed for that film, and construction has began on a few of the new sets needed. Apparently director J.J. Abrams and also the production team are thinking about re-using most of the sets in the 2009 film like the USS Enterprise, so they have one step within the right direction. Talking about sets, though, Abrams has apparently been missing all of the tropical environments he got to cope with on "Lost" because he's thinking about heading to Hawaii for "Trek 2." He's seriously thinking about turning the place right into a "jungle planet." The film will even shoot in a La museum to face set for such a source told TrekMovie is really a "famous Star Trek location." As the primary cast is coming back for that film, no new roles happen to be cast yet. Benicio Del Toro has been eyed to experience the brand new "Trek" villain. Are you currently glad "Star Trek 2" comes with an official filming start date? Inform us within the comments section below or on Twitter!

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Casting Standout: 'The Artist'

Casting Standout: 'The Artist' By Sarah Kuhn November 15, 2011 Photo with the Weinstein Company On paper, "The Artist" appears just like a harmful proposition: a black-and-white-colored quiet movie starring two French stars that are virtually unknown within the united states . States. When casting director Heidi Levitt known towards the idea to her family, they were under impressed. "They were like, 'Really?' Moving their eyes," Levitt recalls getting some lighter moments. "However I figured, 'Isn't this awesome?' Ironically, I appear such as this is really the film I've done most recently that we think is really prone to open in large theaters. I used to be thrilled in what it absolutely was. It absolutely was totally different then anything I'd seen."When Levitt signed on, the two central rolescharismatic quiet-film actor George Valentin and idealistic aspirant celebrity Peppy Millerwere already filled. Filmmaker Michel Hazanavicius composed the script with French stars Jean Dujardin (who won the most effective actor award as of this year's Cannes Film Festival for his submit "The Artist") and Brnice Bejo in your head he'd labored with both stars formerly which is married to Bejo. "He written it for themit's an appreciation letter, in a few sense," Levitt states.Levitt's primary focus, then, was casting the many Hollywood players who surround George and Peppy simply because they fall in and from fame. "There's a feeling that individuals were finding figures, because the film wasn't so based on stars," the Compact disk recalls. "Then when we cast other lead figures, I'm so pleased that individuals didn't go the road of 'Here's the Hollywood title just arriving since the studio mind.' We elected for fantastic, well-known stars, nonetheless they were the actor's actor."Levitt as well as the filmmakers made wish lists of people they thought could truly embody the various roles, stars who required to be capable of convey a totally rounded character in a short period with the quiet-film medium. "Using this movie," she states, "the supporting figures are simply within it for a little, do you want to find people what you are feeling will probably pop."She appeared to become trying to find stars getting a period of time-appropriate aestheticlike Penelope Ann Burns, who plays George's icy wife. "You possessed to assume stars who may be because period look, and there is this older-soul quality to her," states Levitt. "She'd such enthusiasm once we first met, after which it when she auditioned with this, it absolutely was really about exploring what her character is because time period, and he or she completely embodied it."Levitt's initial lists also incorporated such high-profile names as John Goodman, who shows a blustery, cigar-chomping studio mind, and James Cromwell, who plays George's loyal driver-assistant. Both stars were sent the script, mounted on it immediately, and hopped aboard. "Stars responded yea or nay very quickly," states Levitt. "I appear like ultimately everyone fell deeply deeply in love with the idea to perform a quiet film, there's however some risk within it: Does it emerge cheesy? In my opinion we saved things incredibly real. These showed up and basically hopped inside it together with your gusto."Furthermore to Goodman, Cromwell, together with other well-knowns for instance Malcolm McDowell (becoming an significant cohort of Peppy's), Levitt also cast a couple of of her favorite character actorsincluding Jesse Grant, "Borat" partner Ken Davitian, and Missi Pylein bit roles.Pyle, particularly, leaves an long lasting impression since the studio head's diva from the girlfriend. "I'm a fan," Levitt states. "She's this incredible presence. She's anyone who has such amazing comedy timing, and it has this sassy kind of presence that you just understood would read. 'Studio head's girlfriend'you expect the youthful blonde or whatever. We went just a little in the grain. She's not the modest celebrity. She's a dame."Levitt appeared to become thrilled to cast Bitsie Tulloch, now starring on NBC's "Grimm," becoming an actor who stars opposite George inside the film's many movies-within-the-movie. "I've known her for just about any while," Levitt states. "I'd always respected her and cast her before in additional compact roles. She has been someone where I've been waiting to determine which happens along with her. It absolutely was an amazing opportunity to cast somebody that isn't a celebrity yet but features a stars.InchEventually, Levitt's goal wound up being to place this kind of care and detailed thought into every single bit of the film. "It absolutely was a casting dream putting together this excellent quilt," she states. "People who start to see the movie appreciate by utilizing every little part, it absolutely was really about painting the very best picture and creating the very best figures."Casting Director: Heidi LevittDirector: Michel HazanaviciusWriter: Michel HazanaviciusStarring: Jean Dujardin, Brnice Bejo, John Goodman, James Cromwell, Penelope Ann Burns, Malcolm McDowell, Missi PyleThe Pitch: A basic-celebrity (Dujardin) together with a plucky youthful dancer (Bejo) find their fates inextricably linked throughout the roll-out of "talkies" in 20's Hollywood. Casting Standout: 'The Artist' By Sarah Kuhn November 15, 2011 PHOTO CREDIT The Weinstein Company On paper, "The Artist" appears just like a harmful proposition: a black-and-white-colored quiet movie starring two French stars that are virtually unknown within the united states . States. When casting director Heidi Levitt known towards the concept to her family, they were under impressed. "They were like, 'Really?' Moving their eyes," Levitt recalls getting some lighter moments. "However thought, 'Isn't this awesome?' Ironically, I appear such as this is really the film I've done most recently that we think is really prone to open in large theaters. I used to be thrilled in what it absolutely was. It absolutely was totally different from anything I'd seen."When Levitt signed on, the two central rolescharismatic quiet-film actor George Valentin and idealistic aspirant celebrity Peppy Millerwere already filled. Filmmaker Michel Hazanavicius composed the script with French stars Jean Dujardin (who won the most effective actor award as of this year's Cannes Film Festival for his submit "The Artist") and Brnice Bejo in your head he'd labored with both stars formerly which is married to Bejo. "He written it for themit's an appreciation letter, in a few sense," Levitt states.Levitt's primary focus, then, was casting the many Hollywood players who surround George and Peppy simply because they fall interior and exterior fame. "There's a feeling that individuals were finding figures, because the film wasn't so based on stars," the Compact disk recalls. "Then when we cast other lead figures, I'm so pleased that individuals didn't go the road of 'Here's the Hollywood title just arriving since the studio mind.' We elected for fantastic, well-known stars, nonetheless they were the actor's actor."Levitt as well as the filmmakers made wish lists of people they thought could truly embody the various roles, stars who required to be capable of convey a totally rounded character in a short period with the quiet-film medium. "Using this movie," she states, "the supporting figures are simply within it for a little, do you want to find people what you are feeling will probably pop."She appeared to become trying to find stars getting a period of time-appropriate aestheticlike Penelope Ann Burns, who plays George's icy wife. "You possessed to assume stars who may be because period look, and there's this older-soul quality to her," states Levitt. "She'd such enthusiasm once we first met, after which it when she auditioned with this, it absolutely was really about exploring what her character is because period of time, and he or she completely embodied it."Levitt's initial lists also incorporated such high-profile names as John Goodman, who shows a blustery, cigar-chomping studio mind, and James Cromwell, who plays George's loyal driver-assistant. Both stars were sent the script, mounted on it immediately, and hopped aboard. "Stars responded yea or nay very quickly," states Levitt. "I appear like ultimately everyone fell deeply deeply in love with the idea of undertaking a basic film, there's however some risk within it: Does it emerge cheesy? In my opinion we saved things incredibly real. These showed up and basically hopped inside it together with your gusto."Furthermore to Goodman, Cromwell, together with other well-knowns for instance Malcolm McDowell (becoming an significant cohort of Peppy's), Levitt also cast a couple of of her favorite character actorsincluding Jesse Grant, "Borat" partner Ken Davitian, and Missi Pylein bit roles.Pyle, particularly, leaves an long lasting impression since the studio head's diva from the girlfriend. "I'm a fan," Levitt states. "She's this incredible presence. She's anyone who has such amazing comedy timing, and it has this sassy kind of presence that you just understood would read. 'Studio head's girlfriend'you expect the youthful blonde or whatever. We went just a little in the grain. She's not the modest celebrity. She's a dame."Levitt appeared to become thrilled to cast Bitsie Tulloch, now starring on NBC's "Grimm," becoming an actor who stars opposite George inside the film's many movies-within-the-movie. "I've known her for a while,Inch Levitt states. "I'd always respected her and cast her before in additional compact roles. She has been someone where I've been waiting to determine which happens along with her. It absolutely was an amazing opportunity to cast somebody that isn't a celebrity yet but features a stars.InchEventually, Levitt's goal wound up being to place this kind of care and detailed thought into every single bit of the film. "It absolutely was a casting dream putting together this excellent quilt," she states. "People who start to see the movie appreciate by utilizing every little part, it absolutely was really about painting the very best picture and creating the very best figures."Casting Director: Heidi Levitt Director: Michel HazanaviciusWriter: Michel HazanaviciusStarring: Jean Dujardin, Brnice Bejo, John Goodman, James Cromwell, Penelope Ann Burns, Malcolm McDowell, Missi PyleThe Pitch: A basic-celebrity (Dujardin) together with a plucky youthful dancer (Bejo) find their fates inextricably linked through the arrival of "talkies" in 20's Hollywood.

Monday, November 14, 2011

'Jersey Shore's' JWoww States Additional TSA Search Was an 'Abuse of Authority'

Jersey Shoreline star Jenni "JWoww" Farley states that they was unjustly specific by TSA authorities on the recent flight from Fargo, N.D.our editor recommendsMTV Sets Premiere Date for 'I Simply Want My Pants Back' (Exclusive)MTV's David Janollari Reveals About 'Jersey Shore's' Uncertain Future, 'Teen Mom' Debate and What's NextMTV's 'Jersey Shore' Boss SallyAnn Salsano Introduces 'FriendZone' (Exclusive Video) PHOTOS: The Very Best and Worst Moments of 'Jersey Shore' "Fargo ND airport terminal just treated me just like a criminal," Farley creates on Twitter on Sunday. "Holy s--t! Travel 2x per week and not went through things i did here." The truth star states that as she was boarding the plane, TSA authorities requested her to come back for further searching. "I wasn't at random selected," she charges. "Cuz I saw the tsa there pointing at me as i was obtaining a coffee." VIDEO: 6 Best Fights on 'Jersey Shoreline' "I've been patted lower a lot n don't mind but once i'm making an airplane appears odd and deliberate in my experience. Hate when individuals abuse authority," she later states. A TSA representative released an argument to InForum.com in reaction to the request discuss Farley's charges. "TSA aims to screen all people with dignity and respect while carrying out its security mission," TSA representative, Jonella Culmer, states. "TSA utilizes an intelligence-driven, risk-based security method of screen the nearly 1.8 million people traveling daily." "Included in the layered system, people might be susceptible to random screening measures in the checkpoint or even the gate to make sure terrorists can't game the machine.Inch PHOTOS: MTV's Jersey Shoreline Italia In Production Farley was flying from the city after hosting a foam party about 2500 folks attendance at Fargo's The Hub dance club. THR approached the TSA for more comment, but this didn't immediately react to the request. Farley returns towards the MTV series for Season 5, which premieres on Jan. 5. She also offers a spinoff show within the works together with cast mate Nicole "Snooki" Polizzi. Email: Jethro.Nededog@thr.com Twitter:@TheRealJethro Related Subjects Jersey Shoreline Jenni J-Woww Farley

Thursday, November 10, 2011

Roland Emmerich's 'Singularity': The new sony Halts Pre-Production

Poor box office for Roland Emmrich's period drama 'Anonymous' might have hurt his next project: The new sony has suspended pre-production on his $175 million sci-fi epic 'Singularity' and canceled several screen tests. Based on Variety, Raymond Kurzweil, the key expert on singularity who really created the word, will join the project to assist Emmerich with script revisions. 'Singularity' is placed half a century later on, in which a famous nanotechnology pioneer utilizes a harmful new procedure in order to save his hurt boy, Adam. The procedure gives Adam super forces, because of a swarm of nanobots, and that he eventually ends up away from home in the evil corporation that developed the technology. Stars who would read for that lead include Luke Grimes (TV's 'Brothers & Sisters'), Logan Marshall Eco-friendly ('Devil'), Thomas McDonnell ('The Forbidden Kingdom') and Ben Barnes ('The Stories of Narnia'). Reviews are that 'Singularity' isn't within the dreaded Hollywood limbo termed as "turnaround," and can still meet its specific release date of May 2013. However, production will probably be pressed back from next spring to next summer time. Emmerich's current film, 'Anonymous,' which posits that somebody apart from the famous Bard authored Shakespeare's plays, has to date gained only $3 million back from the nearly $$ 30 million budget. 'Singularity' could be more consistent with his previous blockbusters 'The Next Day Of Tomorrow' and 'Independence Day.' Per Deadline, Emmerich's dissatisfaction using the 'Anonymous' box office is not related to this decision. Both 'Anonymous' and 'Singularity' are The new sony releases. [via Variety] [Photo: Getty] Follow Moviefone on Twitter Like Moviefone on Facebook RELATED

Sunday, November 6, 2011

AFM: ARC And XLrator Buy North American Rights To Thriller 96 Minutes

LOS ANGELES (October xx, 2011) ARC Entertainment and XLrator Media have acquired all North American rights to the urban thriller 96 MINUTES, which will be released theatrically early next year. Starring Brittany Snow (Hairspray), Evan Ross (ATL), Christian Serratos (Twilight series), J. Michael Trautmann and David Oyelowo (The Help, Rise of the Planet of the Apes), 96 MINUTES is told in an interlocking structure centering around four young lives which collide in a shocking and terrifying moment with an acutely uncertain outcome. With acclaimed performances by a multicultural cast, this richly complex moral tale touches on the issues of race, class, friendship and our connections to the past. Inspired by true events, 96 MINUTES was written and directed by Aimee Lagos and produced by Lee Clay, Justin Moore-Lewy, Charlie Mason and Paul Gilreath. The deal was negotiated by Barry Gordon of XLrator Media and Ben Weiss of Paradigm. Content Film has the international rights. Lagos is repped by Management 360 and WME. The film premiered at the South By Southwest Film Festival where Ross won the Jury Award for Breakthrough Performance. It has since gone on to win Best Film, Best Director and Best Actress (Snow) at the Boston Film Festival and the Audience Award for Best Feature at the New Hampshire International Film Festival, among others. 96 MINUTES has riveted festival audiences wherever it has played, and we are thrilled to be able to expose it to people of all ages, races and socioeconomic classes, who will relate to its powerful themes, said Gordon. Aimee is a tremendously talented filmmaker with a unique voice. I couldnt be more thrilled to be working with Barry Gordon and the team at ARC and XLrator to release 96 MINUTES, said Lagos. They have a unique and passionate understanding of this film and its audience. Their enthusiasm and commitment combined with a truly compelling marketing plan is something were all incredibly excited to be a part of. Recent ARC Entertainment/XLrator Media releases include Ironclad, John Carpenters The Ward, Bunraku and the upcoming rock n roll comedy Killing Bono and Sundance documentary Knuckle. ARC Entertainment and Perfect Weekend are releasing The Greening of Whitney Brown on November 11.

Friday, November 4, 2011

How Did Armie Hammers Wife React To His Old Man Look In J. Edgar?

First Published: November 4, 2011 12:03 PM EDT Credit: Getty Images LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Caption Armie Hammer and Elizabeth Chambers attend the AFI FEST 2011 Presented By Audi - J. Edgar Opening Night Gala at Graumans Chinese Theatre, Hollywood, on November 3, 2011Armie Hammer is known for his good looks, but in J. Edgar, the actor spent a lengthy time in the makeup chair to play an older version of his real-life character, former FBI Associate Director Clyde Tolson. And the makeover resulted in a surprising reaction from his wife, Elizabeth Chambers. My wife saw me when she walked into the makeup trailer when we did the makeup test and she just started crying, Armie told Access Hollywood on Thursday, on the red carpet at the J. Edgar gala during the AFI Fest 2011 in Hollywood. She goes, Youre going to be such a beautiful old man. And I go, Look at me! I look awful. Really? I guess it means she loves me. The former Social Network actor he played the Winklevoss twins might not have been impressed, personally, by his aged look, but he expects to age a bit better than Tolson. They grew up in a very different time than were in now, Armie said. Then, it was like, Youre not getting your vitamins! Here, smoke your Lucky Strikes. We moisturize now. Its a very different time. We wear sunscreen, so I dont know that Ill look that bad. J. Edgar opens on November 9. Copyright 2011 by NBC Universal, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Thursday, November 3, 2011

REVIEW: A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas Throws Off a Few Sparks, Then Fizzles

The great news about A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas is that it features some of the most original 3-D effects this side of Avatar: Raw-egg splatter comin’ right at ya, shockeroo Claymation penises that’ll rock your world, nativity Jesuses blasting into the sky and lots of mystical-looking marijuana smoke wafting straight off the screen and into your very own lungs, visually speaking at least. The not-so-great news is that A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas lacks the freewheeling, generous spirit of the first two Harold & Kumar movies and tries to make up for that lack with extra crudeness. The picture is extremely funny in places, and at times its sense of daring nudges close to brilliance. But the rest of the time, this extravaganza of tastelessness is working so hard to shock us that its recurring jolts settle into a kind of numbing dullness. It’s an extravaganza of bad taste that in the end just tastes bad. Several years have passed since the higher-and-high jinks of the 2008 Harold & Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay, and Harold (John Cho) and Kumar (Kal Penn, back in action after his White House stint) are barely in touch. Harold is a Wall Street hotshot who’s happily settled, in a big house, with his wife, Maria (Paula Garcs). Kumar is living in their old apartment, a nest of empty pizza boxes and crumpled sofa cushions, self-medicating after his breakup with his girlfriend, Vanessa (Danneel Harris). Harold has overachieved in all areas but one: He and Maria have been trying for a year to conceive a child; Kumar, having drifted out of medical school on a waft of smoke, has underperformed in all areas but one: Vanessa appears at his door, testily, to inform him that she’s pregnant. Adulthood beckons our two hapless heroes, and in a big way. Then a magic spliff reunites the two friends, but it also causes a passel of trouble involving Maria’s stern, impossible-to-please papa (the great Danny Trejo), the virgin daughter of a Ukrainian mobster (he’s played by Elias Koteas) and an assortment of characters including the toddler daughter of Harold’s new, and very straitlaced, best friend, Todd (Thomas Lennon). During the course of A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas, little Ava will be introduced to pot, cocaine and ecstasy — and she loves it all! That’s a pretty daring move in a contemporary culture where children are mini-potentates who must be protected from bad influences at all costs, and Ava’s blissed-out giggles (she’s played by triplets Ashley, Chloe and Hannah Coss) make for the movie’s silliest, most subversive moments. Technically, A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas is something of a wonder: Director Todd Strauss-Schulson and writers Jon Hurwitz and Hayden Schlossberg (who created the characters and have written all three Harold & Kumar movies) have come up with some surprising and inventive ideas, including a goofy-gory Claymation dream sequence heralded by the portentous words, “Don’t worry — nothing bad ever happens in Claymation.” And there’s a big Radio City-style musical number featuring Neil Patrick Harris that balances off-color one-liners and sight gags with lavish ridiculousness. But A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas wobbles off the rails more often than it ought to. The first two Harold & Kumar movies made no effort to stamp out racial stereotypes; instead, they reveled in them. But this third installment, as visually clever as it is, relies too much on dumb, crude jock humor: There seem to be more buxom, semi-naked girls clattering around in high heels than I recall from either of the earlier pictures. And a sequence in which Harris reveals that he’s not really gay but just fakes it so he can get girls seems genuinely perverse, and not in the good way: Maybe watching Harris ogle the comely cuties in his chorus line is supposed to be funny, but it just comes off as crass and forced (though you do have to give the writers extra points for managing to work the presence of Jesus, as a nightclub impresario no less, into the whole absurd affair). As a fan of the first two Harold & Kumar movies, I wanted to love A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas. And I did get a kick out of the way Kumar, after Harold accidentally shoots Santa in the face, stitches old St. Nick back up, good as new. That moment is perhaps the truest measure of their friendship, a highlight of their joint adventure. But the rest of A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas is 2-D in its heart. Follow Stephanie Zacharek on Twitter. Follow Movieline on Twitter.

DirecTV Reports Third-Quarter Subs, Profit Increase

Satellite TV giant DirecTV on Thursday reported improved third-quarter financials as it added more subscribers than in the year-ago period. The company, led by chairmsn and CEO Mike White, posted a U.S. customer gain of 327,000 in the quarter ended Sept. 30. In the same period a year earlier, DirecTV had added 174,000 subscribers. It cited its NFL Sunday Ticket promotion as a key growth driver that led to record gross additions of 1.28 million in the latest period. It was the company's biggest third quarter in seven years. DirecTV ended September with 19.76 million U.S. customers. In Latin America, DirecTV saw a record 574,000 net additions, and in Mexico, it added 238,000 net subscribers. Overall, this meant a record quarterly net sub gain of 1.14 million. Third-quarter earnings of $516 million compared to $479 million in the year-ago period, up 8 percent, but slightly below analyst expectations. Revenue rose 14 percent to $6.84 billion, ahead of Wall Street projections. "We plan to build on this momentum by debuting several compelling new products and services, including a greatly enhanced DirecTV Anywhere offering that will enable consumers to stream live TV programming and on-demand movies to their mobile devices, as well as a brand new HD user interface and the much anticipated launch of our home media center," said White. "We also have exciting growth plans in Latin America as we expect to continue to greatly expand our subscriber base by offering the best video experience to a rapidly growing pay TV market throughout the region." Email: Georg.Szalai@thr.com Twitter: @georgszalai Related Topics DirecTV Earnings

Monday, October 31, 2011

Blu-ray friends Facebook to keep sales up

With Blu-ray sales growing this year, the Digital Entertainment Group wants to keep the momentum going during the holidays and has enlisted Hollywood and the consumer electronics biz to launch the largest social media campaign for the format through Facebook. As the overall homevideo biz is enjoying a 5% boost in revenue during the third quarter -- its first quarterly sales increase since 2008 -- more than 100 Facebook pages will launch a "Win big with Blu-ray" sweepstakes that will "educate movie lovers on the benefits of Blu-ray home entertainment," the DEG said. Bert Kreischer, host of Travel Channel's "Bert The Conqueror," is serving as spokesman for the sweepstakes, in which winners will be awarded a Blu-ray prize pack each week. Kreischer and the DEG produced three short videos that will appear on participating partners' Facebook pages. Effort launches this week and runs through the next 15 weeks. All of the major studios are taking part in the campaign, as are indie distribs like Anchor Bay and Image Entertainment and consumer electronics manufacturers like LG Electronics, Panasonic, Sony Electronics and Toshiba America Information Systems. "The top 20 Hollywood film pages alone on Facebook have more than 250 million collective 'likes,' so by teaming up with more than 100 similar partners, we knew this could be one of the largest sweepstakes ever to be conducted on Facebook," said Amy Jo Smith, executive director of the DEG. "Consumers are spending nearly eight hours per month on Facebook now. There's no better way to tout the benefits of Blu-ray to engaged and receptive consumers across the country." Promotion is powered by Peer Squared, developers of the ShareAndTell Pro social sweepstakes and rewards platform. The DEG reported Monday that third-quarter sales of all homevideo titles in the U.S. totaled $3.9 billion, up from $3.7 billion a year ago. Blu-ray generated $423 million during the third quarter, thanks to top sellers like "Transformers: Dark of the Moon," "Thor," "X-Men: First Class," "Bridesmaids," "Fast Five" and "Star Wars: The Complete Saga." Streaming, electronic sales, and VOD grew 50% to $812 million during the quarter, with VOD alone, earning $420 million of that during the three-month period, up 5%. The rental biz still generated $607 million from subscription-based disc-by-mail services like Netflix, which grew 5%, and $414 million hauled in by rentals from kiosks like Redbox during the quarter. DVD sales were off 15% to $1.3 billion. Overall, the sale of Blu-rays earned $1.23 billion for the first three quarters of the year, compared to $1 billion for the same period a year ago. Much of the uptick is still being attributed to "Avatar," which sold 11 million units on Blu-ray. Before that film, titles generated 16% of their sales, on average, from the Blu-ray format. Now, it's at around 25%, with many titles moving more than 50% on Blu-ray. An estimated 52% of homes in the U.S. now own a Blu-ray player, representing 33.5 million households, the DEG said. However, the entire home entertainment sector is still down 2% to $12.3 billion for the first three quarters. Still any signs of growth of physical discs is welcomed by Hollywood's homevid divisions, given how studios are trying to coax more consumers to buy rather than rent movies. Contact Marc Graser at marc.graser@variety.com

AFM: Indomina Group Will get Cabin Fever

La, CA October 31, 2011 It had been introduced today the Indomina Group, the short-growing U.S. and Dominican Republic based producer and distributor of film, TV and trans-media content, and leading proponent of fanboy cinema is resurrecting the most popular Cabin Fever franchise and can produce and distribute a minimum of two more movies. The announcement is made by Indomina Group Vice Chairman and Boss Jasbinder Singh Mann. The Indomina Group has optioned the privileges for 2 new Cabin Fever payments, which is Cabin Fever: Patient Zero and Cabin Fever: Outbreak. The flicks is going to be shot to in tobago at the begining of Spring of 2012. Mike Wade Wall (The Hitcher, When Other people Call) has signed onto pen the script for Cabin Fever: Patient Zero. Whenever a cruiseship within the Caribbean collides by having an abandoned research vessel, a deadly virus is unleashed. People must try to survive prior to the flesh eating disease consumes all of them. Cabin Fever: Outbereak has been compiled by Adam and Deborah Marcus (Leatherface three dimensional, I Walked Having a Zombie). Within this film a physician and the family visit an online Caribbean island to research a small flu outbreak, simply to uncover a vicious flesh-eating virus that intends everybody around the island. The household is confronted with responsibility to avoid an international epidemic. Original Cabin Fever producer Hypotenuse Pictures is creating these next two films. Indomina Group Vice Chairman and Boss Jasbinder Singh Mann is executive producer on films. We have seen tremendous potential using the Cabin Fever franchise, stated Singh Mann. We're carrying out to 2 new Cabin Fever films because there's a genuine demand from the devout fanbase not only Cabin Fever die hards but a sizable and vocal number of horror fans all over the world. Indomina is excited to accept reigns from the franchise and deliver on these next two films. The Indomina Group continues to be active recently, getting lately acquired United States distribution privileges (in addition to financing and selling) the comedy An Incredible Anxiety about Everything starring Simon Pegg (Rob from the Dead, Hot Fuzz) along with the thriller Existence Without Principle the latest film from worldwide acclaimed director/producer and contemporary maestro of Hong Kongese action cinema Johnnie To. In This summer, Indomina introduced a partnership with Samuel L. Jackson to make a new live action Afro Samurai film in line with the popular animated series which has created a remarkable franchise along with a global following. This long awaited film project is anticipated in the future off the floor in 2012. Indomina’s significantly-acclaimed epic adventure Detective Dee and also the Mystery from the Phantom Flame directed by Tsui Hark is around the home stretch of the effective theatrical run that first viewed it generate the greatest per-screen box office average at work Day holiday weekend in The United States. Other recent releases range from the romantic comedy Griff the Invisible, starring Ryan Kwanten (True Bloodstream), Yuen Woo Pings fighting techinques feature “True Legend,” starring Vincent Zhao, Zhou Xun, Michelle Yeoh and also the late David Carradine, and Teddy Chans award-wining Security officers & Assassins.

Friday, October 28, 2011

Cablevision Third-Quarter Video Subs, Profit Decline

NY - Cablevision Systems on Friday reported a lower third-quarter profit and said it lost 19,000 video subscribers in the latest period. In the year-ago period, the cable operator had lost 24,500 video subs, and in the second quarter it had lost 23,000, meaning subscriber momentum improved in the latest period. The subscriber declines were also less pronounced than Wall Street observers had predicted. The news came a day after Time Warner Cable said it continued to lose video subs in the latest quarter, but fewer than a year earlier - the first time in about two years that it had noted such an improvement. Analysts lauded better-than-expected subscriber trends, but were disappointed by the weaker-than-projected financials. Cablevision, controlled by the Dolan family, said Friday that its third-quarter earnings amounted to $39.6 million, compared with $112.4 million in the year-ago period, down 65 percent, even though revenue rose 8 percent to $1.67 billion, driven by the acquisition of Bresnan Communications. Among the drags on the bottom line, which came in below Wall Street estimates, were about $16 million in costs related to Hurricane Irene, $3 million in debt extinguishment costs and write-offs of deferred financing costs, which the company didn't have in the year-ago period, higher interest expense and $95 million in investment losses. Cablevision said it added 17,000 broadband subscribers and 38,000 telephony customers. After its slight decline in video subs, the firm had 3.26 million video customers at the end of September. "Our cable operations reported improved subscriber metrics that included increases in both high-speed data customers and voice lines, while the company continued to generate healthy free cash flow," said CEO James Dolan. "As we are operating in a challenging environment, we are continuing our efforts to capitalize on the strength of our network and products and on building our business for the long-term." Still, Cablevision shares were trading down more than 6.6 percent as of 10am ET. "We believe that a higher level of marketing spend during the Verizon strike in August played a significant part in the [operating cash flow] weakness and positively impacted subscriber net adds, which exceeded our estimates and consensus estimates," Evercore Partners analyst Bryan Kraft said. Echoed Wells Fargo analyst Marci Ryvicker: "This is a very mixed quarter with financials missing and share repurchases lower than expectations while [subscribers] beat. We believe both the weaker financials and superior subscriber metrics are a result of higher acquisition and retention spending." On a conference call, Cablevision management said it continues to push for reforms in retransmission consent fee negotiations with content providers. Amid recent talk about potential moves by pay TV operators to introduce more a la carte programming offers, the company said it doesn't expect the current business model to change much over the near-term. Email: Georg.Szalai@thr.com Twitter: @georgszalai Related Topics Cablevision Earnings

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

'Avengers' Trailer Features Loki's Arrival In The World, Teases Tom Hiddleston

Are you currently presently thinking about Loki's first appearance inside the "Avengers" trailer, wondering whether this is actually the Asgardian villain's first arrival in the world inside the film? Question ignore: Tom Hiddleston confirmed to MTV News that, yes, you are indeed searching at Loki's grand entrance, even though particular how's and why's remain unclear. See what he required to say inside the video below. Have a look at more comic movie news past the jump! "Walking" Recap The second episode in the year of "The Walking Dead" opened up on Sunday (October 23), which author sitting driving from the week's recap. Give the read, and when you're thirsty for further "Dead" goodness, see what actor Jon Bernthal required to say in regards to the latest episode's Shane-centric cliffhanger! Millar For 3 It's a good week being comic author Mark Millar. The "Kick-Ass" creator gets back with director Matthew Vaughn on two adaptations "Superior" and "The Important Thing Service" and additionally, the rights for his comic "War Heroes" are actually snapped up up by Universal. Less than "Kick-Ass 2" levels of exciting, but awesome enough news nonetheless! "Avengers" Assemble On DVD! More "Avengers" news to suit your needs, while not in the movie variety. There's a unique clip from "The Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes," the animated series that unleashed volumes 3-4 on DVD today (October 25). Uncover the shocking truth below to find out Thor kick an array of Asgardian tail! Reveal everything you consider current day Splash Page roundup inside the comments and also on Twitter!

Friday, October 14, 2011

New Immortals Pictures Online

Cop lots of Tarsem's Greek godsSay everything you like about Tarsem, however, you cannot seriously dispute the man's visual sense. Immortals, on November 11, seems being exactly the same with this rule, with amazingly handsome Greek gods* in bizarre costumes facing off against grubby (but oh-so-handsome) humans and demi-gods, introduced by HenryCavill's Theseus.The pictures here show Kellan Lutz (him from Twilight) as Poseidon, IsabelLucas (her from Transformers:Revenge OfThe Fallen) as Athena and Daniel Sharman (from hardly any really) as Ares. Also,Theseus and StephenDorff's Stavros.Following on within the trailer as well as the footage we'd at Comic-Disadvantage, and that we are rather searching toward this. Ultimately, even if you thinkTarsem puts style over substance, the form is considerable. *We understand we possibly shouldn't be startled because when pretty they are, with "seems just like a Greek god" like a compliment virtually everywhere, but bear in mind the final lot we'd were just a little older plus much more grizzled.

Thursday, October 13, 2011

Why 'The Thing' Is Everything Wrong With Modern Hollywood

Usually, when writing about a new movie, it's customary to provide a plot summary and any other important information at the top of your piece. When talking about this weekend's 'The Thing,' however... eh, what's the point? If you're really interested in seeing 'The Thing,' you can stay in this weekend and watch it on DVD; it was made in 1982 by John Carpenter (itself an entirely radical new interpretation of 1951's 'The Thing From Another World'). If you've already seen the 1982 version, then stay in and watch it again. As a B-level sci-fi horror movie, the new 'The Thing' -- technically a prequel to the 1982 classic -- is serviceably fine. The moment you connect it to the John Carpenter version though, it collapses under the weight of its own pointlessness. To put it bluntly, 'The Thing' represents everything wrong with modern Hollywood. (WARNING: SPOILERS BELOW) What's most frustrating about the new 'Thing' is that by choosing to be a prequel to a pre-existing film, it acknowledges that the universe built by John Carpenter's project is so interesting, that it's worth exploring and expanding upon again. But instead of trying to tell a new story within that world or take advantage of that movie's cleverness, 'The Thing' takes whatever uniqueness was possessed in the original and crams it into the generic template for "scary movie" that we've seen over and over again. Here's just one example: When the young American scientist (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) hides in the air duct of the Thing's spaceship, and the monster pops out to scare her and slowly walk toward her before she grabs the grenade she's dropped, it's a dull and lifeless moment. Because despite establishing that the Thing is a parasitic creature capable of cellular transference, it still likes to meander over to its prey. And despite it being hundreds of thousands of years old and predatory on a microscopic level, it still can't crawl into a vent on its own spaceship. And despite it's ship being so advanced that it can cross light years of dead space, it still takes 7 minutes to warm up the engine -- just enough time for the scientist to make her escape. But, hey: that's how these moments were done in 'Friday the 13th Part 6' or 'The Relic' or hundreds of other indistinguishable horror movies so why change the formula? Gone is the methodical cinematography bathed in the darkness of an Antarctic wasteland; this time the camera is static, making sure to record everything, so no shadow is left hovering over the scene. The acclaimed special effects of the original by Rob Bottin (with help from Stan Winston) are replaced primarily by CGI -- giving the actors nothing to react to in the scene. You may think this is a minor detail, but when we can identify the monster on-screen as being computer animation and not a weird, slimy, tangible thing standing next to the actors, it creates a disconnect in the audience telling us "this is fake." Watch the trailer for 'The Thing' (2011)' This new movie removes all the quiet, creeping dread of the original and replaces it with crashes, bangs and explosions. Will you jump out of your seat? Of course you will; it's easy to make a horror movie filled with "jump scares" when you blast the audio to its highest level and assault your audience with out-of-nowhere screams. It's impossible to not flinch in those moments. Even if it was involuntary, it still counts as a jump apparently. And even though it's designated as a prequel, it straight up lifts memorable set pieces from the first movie, making it so two separate groups of people -- who have never met each other and come from completely different cultural backgrounds -- just so happen to react with the exact same kind of behavior to indescribable extraterrestrial phenomena. The coincidental synchronicity is not played for any kind of cosmic irony other than "Hey, it worked in the first movie, so we can do it again without it losing any impact." The whole thing is one big labored struggle to get us to the opening moments of the original movie, which means everyone dies and nothing has changed. It's ultimate goal is to revoke any gains it makes, just so it fills out small details from the original and provides a "wink" to fans of the first. The driving force behind the movie is to answer the question of "What happened before the first movie began?" But what everyone involved with this production failed to consider was that question is better left as rhetorical. Watch the trailer for John Carpenter's 'The Thing' Trailer #1 The Thing - MOVIECLIPS.com A prequel is the worst kind of horror movie you could make, and fundamentally misses the point of the genre. The reason horror remains so timelessly effective is the way it plays on an audience's fears of both the unknown and of losing control. However, the ultimate goal of a prequel is to answer lingering questions and explain how everything worked. Why should an audience be scared of the thing moving around in the shadows, if you are trying to reveal everything about it? What most boggles the mind is if Universal really wanted to revisit the world of 'The Thing,' did they think this was the best approach? To strip it of all its originality and turn it into another generic "scare of the week," that audiences will forget about after opening weekend? At that point, why not just re-release the original in theaters for a special Halloween run? 'The Lion King' has proven that audiences will return to an old movie on the big screen if they love it enough. If you argue that John Carpenter's movie is too dated for modern audiences, then why did they choose to make a new movie that actually takes place before it? The reason 'The Thing' is everything wrong with modern Hollywood is because it's assembly-line movie making. Even with all the remakes and prequels and sequels and adaptations, all these varied sources of inspiration get churned into the same type of final product. You can have the most exotic ingredients in the world, but when all you do is shove them in a blender and turn them into mush, people will get fed up with the meal. To complete the food analogy: if the original 'Thing' was a gourmet meal crafted by a talented chef, this is cheap junk food you can get from a box. Don't we deserve a better menu? Images from 'The Thing' (2011) See All Moviefone Galleries » [Photos courtesy of Universal Studios] Follow Moviefone on Twitter Like Moviefone on Facebook RELATED

Swank Regrets Attending Chechen Concert

First Launched: October 13, 2011 9:50 AM EDT Credit: Getty Images MOSCOW, Russia -- Caption Hilary Swank hits the red-colored-colored carpet the premiere of Something Given at Graumans Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, Calif., on May 3, 2011 Hollywood celebrity Hilary Swank mentioned she deeply regrets seeing a concert held round the birthday in the Kremlin-backed Chechen leader, who's billed with torture, abductions and killings by human rights groups. The Two-time Oscar champion mentioned they wasn't aware in the disappearances, house torchings and extra-judicial killings apparently orchestrated by Ramzan Kadyrov inside the southern Russian republic. I deeply regret attending the marriage, Swank mentioned in the written message for the Connected Press on Thursday. Essentially stood a full understanding of the items the marriage was apparently intended as, I'd not have access to gone. Swank launched this content following a Human Rights Watch belittled her as well as Belgian actor Jean Claude Van Damme and British violinist Vanessa Mae for transporting on the demonstrate that, it states, trivializes the suffering of several people with human rights abuses. Reps for Van Damme and Mae haven't taken proper care of immediately APs demands for comment. On Kadyrovs 35th birthday on March. 5, his government organized a luxurious concert in Chechnyas provincial capital, Grozny, which has been restored after being flattened throughout two wars between Chechen separatists and Moscow since 1994. The stars additionally to a lot of Russian people in politics and celebs switched as much as congratulate and lavish Kadyrov with praise in the stage arranged from the gigantic mosque together with a lately built business center. Through the birthday show, Swank mentioned they have been taken with the Chechen government government bodies passion to produce peace also to make something beautiful. She mentioned in their apology that her invitation for the concert made no mention of the Kadyrovs birthday. Within the show, Swank also came out being one of the handful of women to use no headscarf even though women in Chechnya are compelled to stay with an Islami dress code. People who will not obey have apparently faced risks and harrassment from Kadyrovs feared security forces. Swank won Oscars on her behalf roles in Boys Dont Cry and Big Baby. Her screen credits have Freedom Authors, 'P.S. I Like You together with Amelia. Kadyrov can be a former separatist digital digital rebel which has boasted of killing his first Russian soldier at 15. He visited the federal government side at the outset of the second Chechen war in 1999. A string of Kadyrovs experts and political rivals are actually very wiped out lately in Russia, Austria, Dubai and Chicken. Kadyrov has consistently declined participation the majority of the killings, saying the accusations are fabricated to blacken his title. The birthday show was the newest in many pricey and extravagant occasions backed by Kadyrovs government despite Chechnyas high poverty and unemployment rates. He's spent vast amounts to obtain well-bred horses that have played inside a couple of from the cell phone industry's richest races also to renovate a soccer stadium in Grozny. Worldwide soccer tales have visited Chechnya to see friendly matches. Under Kadyrovs leadership, Chechnya has become relatively quiet, as well as the insurgent violence has largely migrated to neighboring republics in the volatile North Caucasus region. Copyright 2011 with the Connected Press. All rights reserved. These elements is probably not launched, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Rodney Atkins Reunites Together With His Birth Mother

First Released: October 12, 2011 10:54 AM EDT Credit: Getty Images Caption Rodney Atkins talks in the #1 Party for Have A Back Road at Body mass index in Nashville, Tenn., on October 3, 2011NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- When individuals become famous, lengthy-lost relatives frequently emerge from the woodwork. That grew to become a specific problem for country singer Rodney Atkins who launched his 4th album, Have A Back Road, a week ago when he grew to become the spokesperson for that National Council for Adoption in 2008. Everyone was coming up to him with bags of hair wanting DNA tests, and that he couldnt easily determine who his relatives were. Atkins was utilized being an infant and didnt have connection with his birth family. I desired to shut that door, stated Atkins, 42, inside a recent interview. So in August of 2008, Atkins experienced the correct channels and reunited together with his birth mother in Nashville. It struck me at that time, walking for the reason that room, dealing with know her, Atkins stated. Shes an excellent, beautiful lady. I recognized the reason I desired to achieve that was without anything related to my parents. Im glad Used to do that actually, really, really on her. Shes been transporting that around, wondering what went down, and that i could tell it had been this type of relief. His birth mother became pregnant at 19. She hid her pregnancy from her family, and ultimately made a decision to give Atkins up for adoption rather than getting an abortion. For privacy reasons, Atkins didn't wish to reveal her identity. I simply desired to let her know thanks, because she'd another options to finish that situation, stated Atkins, temporarily halting. I is probably not here. Which means you shouldn't become complacent. She stored saying, Im sorry. I stored saying, Thanks. His birth mother continued to got married and also have another boy of her very own. Her boy revealed to Atkins that each all year long spring, his moms mood would change, and that he never understood why so far. Atkins birthday is within March. His adoptive parents, Allan and Margaret Atkins, appear to have been encouraging from the reunion. They can traveled lower to satisfy Atkins birth mother and introduced some reminiscences together. My mother come up with pictures from the moment I had been a baby to some couple of years back to trap her up and allow her to see what my existence was like, stated Atkins. Atkins discloses a great deal about his idyllic upbringing in rural East Tennessee onhis new album, Have A Back Road. The title track lately spent multiple days at No. 1 around the country charts and discusses using the lengthy way the place to find escape the strain of contemporary existence. Other tunes, including Hes Mine and Becoming An Adult Like This reflect his role like a father and also the hard-working, family values he hopes to pass through onto 10-year-old boy Elijah. Atkins sings about those who have meant probably the most to him in the song, Lifelines. Basically spent the relaxation of my existence getting despite the folks which had assisted me out, I'd never settle the score, stated Atkins. Lucrative includes his birth mother for the reason that group. Atkins stated it required lots of courage for his birth mother to undergo existence with this particular secret, and much more courage to show it to her family. Before her very own mother died lately, she could introduce Atkins to his grandmother. She needed to let her know in the end these years, You've another grand son which i never said about. I cant imagine what shes been transporting, he stated. About eight several weeks following the reunion, Atkins received mothering sunday package within the mail from his birth mother. She'd found that Atkins had performed baseball like a kid and looked up to La Dodgers first baseman Steve Garvey. The package contained Garveys MVP card, a baseball along with a Dodgers jersey, all personally signed by Garvey. Atkins was stunned. He known as his birth mother and thanked her abundantly, saying she weren't required to do that. She explained, You need to understand, Rodney, in my experience here's your first birthday. Copyright 2011 through the Connected Press. All privileges reserved. These components might not be released, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Kim Bubbs Divulges Spoiler-Free Secrets From 'The Thing' and 'On the Road'

Prepare to begin seeing much more of Kim Bubbs. The Canadian-born actress seems in 2 long awaited films set hitting the giant screen soon: this week's release 'The Factor,' which works as a prequel to John Carpenter's 1982 cult classic of the identical title, and 'On the street.A Bubbs stars alongside Garrett Hedlund, Mike Riley and Bella herself, Billy Burke, in 'On the street,A balance buzzed-about adaptation of Jack Kerouac's famous novel. Moviefone swept up using the budding star to discover much more about 'The Thing' and what it really was like dealing with Hedlund in 'On the street.A What sparked your curiosity about 'The Thing' initially? I figured it would be a brilliant idea to prequel John Carpenter's film. 'The Thing' provided an excellent chance to determine what went down in the Norwegian base since it is shrouded in mystery. We do not know precisely what happened there. And That I loved the truth that there have been two women in that one. How made it happen modify the dynamic while filming, getting another lady around the team? We'd a lot of fun. Mary Elizabeth [Winstead, of 'Scott Pilgrim versus The World'] is amazing. She's so professional and gifted. We'd such a lot of fun being an ensemble cast too. Everyone got along. It felt nearly the same as camp. So how exactly does this compare and lead into John Carpenter's version? Well, there is lots of care taken with this particular film because Carpenter's version is really a cult classic and that we desired to respect that. The effects were done manually and there is lots of puppetry in Carpenter's version, which element is within this film, that is great. Our film and the are certainly in the same world. Although it has got the same kind of feel, it's also a movie that may really stand by itself. Therefore it may attract a crowd beyond original fans of 'The Thing'? Oh, absolutely! One thing that's interesting would be the aspects of paranoia, isolation, being unsure of who to trust -- that whole mental element is actually intriguing, notable and compelling to look at. That which was it like shooting? I heard you had quite a elaborate occur Toronto... Yeah, it had been amazing. It had been so impressive to determine all the work the effects team did. We did some use eco-friendly screens, but many of the puppets and also the stuff was on set, therefore it really was awesome to have interaction by using it and find out all of the artistry behind it. Without giving an excessive amount of away, are you able to describe the puppetry a little many the kinds of effects don't be surprised to determine? The creature needs to seem sensible for films, so you will notice some commonalities between certain animals. How have you try 'On the Road'? That seems like a awesome project. Yes! It is a really awesome project, and it is an overall total departure from 'The Factor.' It's according to Jack Kerouac's famous book, and shot in seven locations around the world. For the reason that film I play Sal Paradise's -- performed by Mike Riley -- real, true woman. In the finish of his adventures he decides to alter his existence and settle lower with Laura, who's my character. Great cast. The director is Walter Salles, who directed 'The Motorcycle Journals.' I believe it will likely be a very exciting project being released the coming year. You will find lots of large names within the movie, like Billy Burke and Garrett Hedlund. That which was the dynamic like on set? The majority of my moments were with Garrett Hedlund and Mike Riley, who're fantastic. They are amazing. This can be a film that actually together with around, similar to the book. The funny part is the fact that shooting 'The Factor,' i was putting on snowpants in May, June, and that we were boiling. Then shooting 'On the Road' it had been December and that i is at a bustier ball gown. It had been quite funny. Follow Moviefone on Twitter Like Moviefone on Facebook RELATED

Monday, October 10, 2011

Joel Edgerton on Big Moments, The Thing Prequel, and Avoiding 'The Hollywood Trap'

Australian actor Joel Edgerton has been in the business for a good 15 years, during which time he’s transitioned from Aussie TV to supporting turns in international films (Kinky Boots, King Arthur, and Star Wars: Episode II — Revenge of the Sith) and wrote and co-starred in the solid Australian thriller The Square with brother Nash (who directed). But in 2011 — on the heels of his work in the underperforming but critically-loved Warrior, on the eve of his lead turn in Universal’s prequel The Thing — he seems poised, finally, for his moment in the spotlight. The thought inspires mixed feelings for Edgerton. On the one hand, a higher profile means he’s been able to land bigger roles, like Tom Buchanan in Baz Luhrmann’s upcoming adaptation of The Great Gatsby. On the other hand, he admits on the subject of fame vs. artistry, “You’ve got to be really careful that you’re not falling into the Hollywood trap.” Edgerton rang Movieline to discuss his career at large and his work in Matthijs van Heijningen Jr.’s The Thing, in which he plays tough-but-sensitive American pilot Braxton Carter, one of a group of scientific research camp members blindsided by a shape-shifting alien creature in isolated Antarctica three days prior to the events of John Carpenter’s 1982 sci-fi classic. You filmed Warrior in 2009 and The Thing in 2010, but both are hitting theaters around the same time so this feels like the perfect time to talk with you. Does it feel like you’ve been waiting for this moment, this year? I don’t know! I feel like I’ve been waiting for a moment all my life. And it’s funny; when the moment comes, it doesn’t really feel like a moment. I’ve been banging the drum for so long, I figure at some point it would all culminate into something, except that ironically it sort of feels like the opposite, in a way. I just keep doing my thing and try not to get swept up in it, because I think the moment I get swept up in it all, it can easily evaporate and come crashing down. You know, to me I think I’m just going to keep focused and forward on what I’m doing, work-wise, rather than searching for any kind of meaning in it. It’s always risky to remake a beloved film property. How were you first convinced that re-imagining John Carpenter’s The Thing was a good idea, and a worthy project for you to join? If you’re a fan of the Carpenter version — I’ve got quite a few buddies who, like me, are a fan of the ‘82 Carpenter version, and when I first found out about this idea and discussed it with them they were like, it’s such a cool idea — I can’t believe no one’s thought about that before! It does answer questions that fans of the original may have, cleverly fitting itself into the Carpenter version in ways. Yeah, it’s sort of like taking the seam and creating a new section of the garment, in a way. It’s this great mystery that’s sort of left unsolved and in the Carpenter version it kind of just sets up the power and craziness of that alien. And yet as these guys prove, it can open up to create a whole story of its own. I’m very glad they did. Given the fact that so many people are familiar with the original film, what did you find was the challenge in introducing a new character to the framework in which viewers are already primed not to trust anyone? It’s sort of interesting, because back in the day there was the whole kind of human paranoia, human vs. human, alien vs. human paranoia. It sort of seemed to have a real social relevance in the ’80s and I think that same social relevance is here today, which is this question of, ‘Who is who?’ Who are the villains in society? I guess it would have been Communism that was the parallel back in the ’80s, but now there’s terrorism and the question of who’s out to get who. I think that’s an interesting reason why this could be relatable, but I don’t think it’s worth bringing too much into the foreground because on one hand, it’s a piece of entertainment. It’s not supposed to be too heavy a social allegory. But I think there is a bit of relevance to it. Have you seen the finished film already? Yeah, yeah — I saw it a couple of months ago, but I think it would have been a near-finished version of it, without the completely finished sound and music. Visually the film is at times so expansive, and at times quite claustrophobic. Some of the sets were quite large and extensive. Was there an immersive quality to it? There was such a real care of attention to detail to get the sets to feel and match the whole Carpenter feeling, and in fact the film was pointed in that direction, to give a sense of style and aesthetic and design that kept in with the Carpenter film. Beyond that, I feel like at the same time the filmmakers were not going to deny the sort of scale we expect out of movies these days and the sort of excitement we expect from them. Also, the more modern technology. So it seemed like the whole time there was one eye on the ’80s and one eye on the current period, and trying to make both of those things work in the film’s favor. This is the most recent in a string of roles for you in which you play an American. Coming from Australia have you found this to be an interesting development in your career as you break into Hollywood — the cultivation of a variety of American accents and characters? Yeah, it is! I always sort of run home and do movies in Australia and I’ve found a number of productions over here. A number of earlier things that I did that came out of L.A. were films that I shot in the U.K., like Kinky Boots and King Arthur. So I felt like I was getting work out of here then running off to another country to shoot. But it’s great participating in these big American movies and I guess what comes with that is then taking on the responsibility of playing American characters. It’s funny, I get more and more comfortable with it but at the same time there’s a real responsibility to make sure you get it right. Same with Warrior, sort of trying to find a relatability to the working class — Pittsburgh, working class, a fighter. All of those elements. The accent is just one element. But there’s a real responsibility as an actor to make sure you get those things right. I find it a responsibility to myself, out of fear of being crucified. [Laughs] I don’t want to end up on one of those ‘Worst accents in film’ lists. Looking back on the transitions you’ve gone through in your career, do you feel you’ve had to become more careful in your choices of roles and projects in the last few years as your star has been on the rise? Yeah. I mean, I don’t know how it is for other actors but I assume it could be a similar course. When you first start out, or when I first started out, it was just work — do whatever you can. Get noticed, get people hiring you. The only way for you to show what you can do is to actually do. You can’t really be picky when no one is offering you anything. And then, if you’re lucky, things start to roll along. But even still, there were never millions of choices. It was all about finding the projects that I liked and tackling them to the ground. Convince directors that I was the right person for the job. When you don’t have a high profile, quite often you just can’t get the jobs that you want. So it’s a kind of lovely, fortunate position where I can work all the time and I have options of working on various things. And strangely enough, just when I thought it was going to get easier it’s still on some level a little tougher, because you’re always looking for that right project and you want the challenge. Sometimes it’s tougher because where it all really boils down is taking bigger paychecks to do less interesting work. And if you really see yourself as an artist or as an actor you like a challenge anyway. You’ve got to be really careful that you’re not falling into the Hollywood trap, you know? For me, it’s just like I have to remind myself of what keeps me going and what kind of challenges. It’s really about the process and not the result. One of the most unforgiving and upsetting and traumatic experiences is releasing a movie. Moreso than filming it, then? Yeah! I find it traumatic! I just want to make the things and it’d be great if I didn’t have to — I mean, I’m proud of the movies I make and I’m proud of the movies I do, but there’s something about talking about the process that can feel like it reduces the actual experience of the thing. When you’re in the trenches doing the work, that’s exciting. I guess when the movie gets released I’m just reminded of the sad aspect of the fact that it’s all just a business as well. What I really love, and this is probably also on the publicity side or the press side, is that so many of the journalists or the press who talk about movies are actually fans of movies. The fact that there are so many websites that are dedicated to movies, it seems to me the right people are talking about the movies because they’re the people who are interested in seeing good movies and are waiting for movies to come out and want the best from movies. That’s why, hopefully, we’re all in the business. On a semi-related note, you and your brother Nash broke out of the Australian film scene together with projects like The Square, and you wrote, directed, and starred in a short film called Monkeys. So on the one hand audiences see you in these increasingly high profile Hollywood films, but do you intend on keeping a foot in the independent world? Blue-Tongue Films is a big important thing for us, and it’s also a part of the reason why I’m doing what I’m doing on this bigger scale. I’ve kept my interests all the way along via the things that we write and the stories that we generate, and that’s so important to me. It’s important to me that we make Australian films and Australian product. Blue-Tongue will continue to make stuff there and start to open up things here in America. But being a writer has taught me a lot about being an actor, and being an actor has taught me a lot about being a writer. Reading a lot of screenplays in America has taught me more about being a writer. So I feel like the whole creative process, one thing feeds another. And it keeps me in love with what I do, which makes me just an all-around happier person. It feeds that back into the work. So it allows me to not get too easily cynical and gives me an outlet that I feel really happy about. It gives us something to be proud of. And it teaches me more about the whole process of moviemaking, which as an actor you’re sometimes a little guarded and shielded from the reality of.