John Flynn’s Rolling Thunder is a lean, mean revenge thriller that could have only been made in the 1970s. It’s 1973, to be exact, and Major Charles Rane (William Devane) has recently returned to San Antonio after several years in a Viet Cong prison camp. Greeted with a hero’s welcome, Rane has little use for his neighbors’ praise, which he appears to regard (correctly) as an almost poignantly inadequate expression of collective survivor’s guilt.
Rane, along with his friend and fellow veteran Johnny Vohden (Tommy Lee Jones), inhabits the film with a calm pragmatism that might be disconcerting for viewers accustomed to cinema’s more overheated depictions of soldiers coming home. The men don’t appear to resent the friends and family who’re blessedly ignorant of the atrocities they experienced abroad, but the soldiers no longer possess the facilities necessary to uphold basic social conventions such...
Rane, along with his friend and fellow veteran Johnny Vohden (Tommy Lee Jones), inhabits the film with a calm pragmatism that might be disconcerting for viewers accustomed to cinema’s more overheated depictions of soldiers coming home. The men don’t appear to resent the friends and family who’re blessedly ignorant of the atrocities they experienced abroad, but the soldiers no longer possess the facilities necessary to uphold basic social conventions such...
- 4/23/2024
- by Chuck Bowen
- Slant Magazine
When it comes to the classics of cinema—and sometimes the dregs—it’s always fun to think about what might’ve been. Casting especially can be a strange alchemy between actor and role, and when the formula is off, it’s easy to ponder whether the spell would work at all. Can you imagine Robert Redford as Michael Corleone? What about Tom Selleck as Indiana Jones? And it’s an interesting challenge to envision what Tim Burton’s Batman might’ve been if it starred Bill Murray versus Robin Williams.
The casting of Neo in The Matrix is another legendary “what if?” in movie history. The 1999 classic, which just turned 25 years old earlier this month, is now beloved for its reinvention of Keanu Reeves. He plays Neo in the film; a former sad sack hacker who discovers he’s actually a superpowered messiah sent to free us from a digital prison.
The casting of Neo in The Matrix is another legendary “what if?” in movie history. The 1999 classic, which just turned 25 years old earlier this month, is now beloved for its reinvention of Keanu Reeves. He plays Neo in the film; a former sad sack hacker who discovers he’s actually a superpowered messiah sent to free us from a digital prison.
- 4/22/2024
- by David Crow
- Den of Geek
With "Avengers: Endgame" behind us and Chris Evans having retired from the Marvel Cinematic Universe until further notice, we can all agree that "Captain America: The First Avenger" is the best Steve Rogers solo film, right? From its character work to its action sequences and a rousing score by the legendary Alan Silvestri, director Joe Johnston's WWII adventure is a top-tier MCU movie. While it may lack the visceral melees that the Russo Brothers brought to its sequels, "The First Avenger" delivers more than enough whiz-bang thrills and Brooklyn attitude to make up the difference (that and its politics are much less confused than those of "The Winter Soldier").
Johnston's superhero picture also boasts what is still one of the McU's most distinguished casts, pairing Evans with Hayley Atwell, Tommy Lee Jones, Sebastian Stan, Hugo Weaving, Stanley Tucci, Toby Jones, and Dominic Cooper. Even Natalie Dormer, David Bradley,...
Johnston's superhero picture also boasts what is still one of the McU's most distinguished casts, pairing Evans with Hayley Atwell, Tommy Lee Jones, Sebastian Stan, Hugo Weaving, Stanley Tucci, Toby Jones, and Dominic Cooper. Even Natalie Dormer, David Bradley,...
- 4/21/2024
- by Sandy Schaefer
- Slash Film
Robert Downey Jr. in “Oppenheimer” had it easy this year.
He took the early lead in Gold Derby’s official Oscar odds for Best Supporting Actor. He widened that lead in the following months. He then swept the precursor awards. And despite landing in a powerhouse lineup that included Sterling K. Brown in “American Fiction,” Robert De Niro in “Killers of the Flower Moon,” Ryan Gosling in “Barbie” and Mark Ruffalo in “Poor Things,” there was a “near zero” chance of Downey not being called to the stage to accept the Academy Award.
But not every past recipient of the Best Supporting Actor Oscar has cruised to victory like Downey. There have been numerous nail-biters over the years.
I recall one contest in particular from three decades ago. The 1993 fabulous five included first-time nominee Leonardo DiCaprio as the autistic younger brother of Johnny Depp in “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape,” Ralph Fiennes...
He took the early lead in Gold Derby’s official Oscar odds for Best Supporting Actor. He widened that lead in the following months. He then swept the precursor awards. And despite landing in a powerhouse lineup that included Sterling K. Brown in “American Fiction,” Robert De Niro in “Killers of the Flower Moon,” Ryan Gosling in “Barbie” and Mark Ruffalo in “Poor Things,” there was a “near zero” chance of Downey not being called to the stage to accept the Academy Award.
But not every past recipient of the Best Supporting Actor Oscar has cruised to victory like Downey. There have been numerous nail-biters over the years.
I recall one contest in particular from three decades ago. The 1993 fabulous five included first-time nominee Leonardo DiCaprio as the autistic younger brother of Johnny Depp in “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape,” Ralph Fiennes...
- 4/20/2024
- by Tariq Khan
- Gold Derby
It's a gripping Western-style battle of good versus evil set in the arid and dusty landscape of 1980s Texas. With a drug deal gone bad, a stolen fortune, a killer and a lawman, the chase is on and it's a thrill you won't want to miss.
This 2007 movie was one of the most exciting releases of the year, and the hype was well deserved. This gritty western used its wit and charm to claim 4 Academy Awards and 2 Golden Globes.
A Stellar Cast and Hit Modern Western
Adapted from Cormac McCarthy's novel of the same name, the film stars Josh Brolin as a hunter who stumbles upon a shocking murder scene and makes a decision that will change his life forever. Hot on his trail is a brutal killer played by Javier Bardem, and not far behind is an old-school sheriff played by Tommy Lee Jones, who wonders if he...
This 2007 movie was one of the most exciting releases of the year, and the hype was well deserved. This gritty western used its wit and charm to claim 4 Academy Awards and 2 Golden Globes.
A Stellar Cast and Hit Modern Western
Adapted from Cormac McCarthy's novel of the same name, the film stars Josh Brolin as a hunter who stumbles upon a shocking murder scene and makes a decision that will change his life forever. Hot on his trail is a brutal killer played by Javier Bardem, and not far behind is an old-school sheriff played by Tommy Lee Jones, who wonders if he...
- 4/19/2024
- by info@startefacts.com (Catherine Hunter)
- STartefacts.com
"Men in Black" is a bit of a strange franchise. For instance: did you know there are actually four movies in the series? I bet you completely memory-holed the 2019 movie "Men in Black: International," but it exists! Hell, you might have even checked out after the disappointing "Men in Black II" and not realized there was a "Men in Black III." And yet, the original "Men in Black," released in 1997, is a near-perfect movie. It blends humor, heart, and incredible visual effects to craft a memorable blockbuster that still holds up to this day. The basic set-up of all the film is the same: a secret government agency known as the Men in Black police outer space alien activity here on Earth. Four movies later, the franchise remains lopsided, but you really can't beat that first film.
Just hearing about the series might make you want to revisit it, which...
Just hearing about the series might make you want to revisit it, which...
- 4/16/2024
- by Chris Evangelista
- Slash Film
The music festival Coachella hit this weekend with a wide array of genre artists. Notably, for the older millennial music fans, 90s bands such as Blur and No Doubt would take the stage. The festival would also feature a bevy of guest appearances that include such acts as Olivia Rodrigo, Billie Eilish, Shakira, Paris Hilton and Kesha. Kesha would set social media and news outlets ablaze as she changed the lyrics to her hit song “Tik Tok” to say “fuck P. Diddy” during her performance with Reneé Rapp.
The Hollywood Reporter reveals that during J Balvin’s set, Will Smith arrived on stage in his black suit and shades, which was “the last suit you’d ever wear” in Smith’s 1997 blockbuster film, Men in Black. Smith and Balvin would then duet in rapping to the title track of the sci-fi comedy that also starred Tommy Lee Jones. Their performance...
The Hollywood Reporter reveals that during J Balvin’s set, Will Smith arrived on stage in his black suit and shades, which was “the last suit you’d ever wear” in Smith’s 1997 blockbuster film, Men in Black. Smith and Balvin would then duet in rapping to the title track of the sci-fi comedy that also starred Tommy Lee Jones. Their performance...
- 4/15/2024
- by EJ Tangonan
- JoBlo.com
Will Smith was a surprise guest at Coachella on Sunday night.
The rapper-actor hit the stage alongside J Balvin to perform his hit song “Men in Black,” from his 1997 box office blockbuster film of the same name.
Smith appeared in Ray-Ban Balorama sunglasses and a black Dolce & Gabbana suit, the standard uniform of his character in the film, which starred Smith and Tommy Lee Jones as investigators in a secret organization who monitor and police extraterrestrials.
Smith and Balvin rapped the song together, while backup dancers dressed as aliens and a giant alien head prop added to the effect. At the end of the performance, Balvin was dragged off by two people in black suits.
Then, Smith was seen holding up the device used in the movie to erase the memories of people who witness alien activities, in addition to wiping out the memories of agents ready to retire.
The rapper-actor hit the stage alongside J Balvin to perform his hit song “Men in Black,” from his 1997 box office blockbuster film of the same name.
Smith appeared in Ray-Ban Balorama sunglasses and a black Dolce & Gabbana suit, the standard uniform of his character in the film, which starred Smith and Tommy Lee Jones as investigators in a secret organization who monitor and police extraterrestrials.
Smith and Balvin rapped the song together, while backup dancers dressed as aliens and a giant alien head prop added to the effect. At the end of the performance, Balvin was dragged off by two people in black suits.
Then, Smith was seen holding up the device used in the movie to erase the memories of people who witness alien activities, in addition to wiping out the memories of agents ready to retire.
- 4/15/2024
- by Kimberly Nordyke
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Willennium may have started nearly a quarter of a century ago, but Will Smith has been dominating on screen since the early 1990s. The Academy Award-winning star has been a blockbuster juggernaut with a commanding presence on screen, dabbling in anything and everything. Serious fare like "Concussion," edgy superhero stories like "Hancock" and "Suicide Squad," action-packed dramas like "Enemy of the State," sci-fi thrillers like "I, Robot," musicals like "Aladdin," and plenty of goofy nonsense like "Shark Tale" and "Wild Wild West" have all let Big Willy Style flex his acting muscles and show that he truly is a jack of all trades. From his humble beginnings in the ensemble piece "Where the Day Takes You" to the recently announced "Bad Boys: Ride or Die," Smith is one of Hollywood's most prolific and profitable performers. And fortunately, he's also one of the best. It's time to get jiggy wit'...
- 4/2/2024
- by BJ Colangelo
- Slash Film
Lately, there have been rumors about Boyd Holbrook playing Harvey Dent in the next ‘The Batman Part II.’ The movie got postponed for more than a year without clear reasons. Fans curious about the casting asked James Gunn on Threads, a social platform he often uses to clarify rumors. Gunn simply responded with “fake.”
Gunn has a habit of clearing up rumors about his future projects like ‘Superman’ and other connected universes like the Elseworlds label, which includes the upcoming ‘The Batman’ sequel and ‘The Penguin’ show set to come out in 2024.
As for the casting in ‘The Batman Part II,’ most of the cast is still a mystery, except for a few confirmed names like Robert Pattison, who will return as Batman, as announced when the sequel was first revealed.
Harvey Dent, also known as Two-Face, is a prominent villain in Batman’s list of adversaries. He’s been featured in various live-action adaptations,...
Gunn has a habit of clearing up rumors about his future projects like ‘Superman’ and other connected universes like the Elseworlds label, which includes the upcoming ‘The Batman’ sequel and ‘The Penguin’ show set to come out in 2024.
As for the casting in ‘The Batman Part II,’ most of the cast is still a mystery, except for a few confirmed names like Robert Pattison, who will return as Batman, as announced when the sequel was first revealed.
Harvey Dent, also known as Two-Face, is a prominent villain in Batman’s list of adversaries. He’s been featured in various live-action adaptations,...
- 3/30/2024
- by Valentina Kraljik
- Fiction Horizon
Recently rumors have been going around that Boyd Holbrook has been cast as Harvey Dent in the upcoming ‘The Batman Part II,’ which was recently delayed for over a year due to unknown reasons (so far).
Due to the widespread nature of the rumor, fans have asked James Gunn directly for information regarding the casting. Gunn, who is pretty active on Threads and often shares insights and debunks rumors on the social network, obliged and simply wrote “fake.”
Gunn has a tradition of debunking rumors connected both to his upcoming projects such as ‘Superman’ and other related universes such as Elseworlds label that gathers both the upcoming ‘The Batman’ sequel and ‘The Penguin’ show scheduled to be released in 2024.
Regarding ‘The Batman Part II’ casting, the rest of the cast remains largely unknown, save for the few names that were confirmed to reprise their roles when the sequel was first...
Due to the widespread nature of the rumor, fans have asked James Gunn directly for information regarding the casting. Gunn, who is pretty active on Threads and often shares insights and debunks rumors on the social network, obliged and simply wrote “fake.”
Gunn has a tradition of debunking rumors connected both to his upcoming projects such as ‘Superman’ and other related universes such as Elseworlds label that gathers both the upcoming ‘The Batman’ sequel and ‘The Penguin’ show scheduled to be released in 2024.
Regarding ‘The Batman Part II’ casting, the rest of the cast remains largely unknown, save for the few names that were confirmed to reprise their roles when the sequel was first...
- 3/30/2024
- by Valentina Kraljik
- Comic Basics
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Variety may receive an affiliate commission.
As studios and distributors chart a path for their wares that — at least for the foreseeable future — prioritizes streaming, collecting physical media continues to become an increasingly rarified hobby. Yet it still remains the best way to guarantee the availability of many titles, often in the best available presentation: a 4K disc on your bookshelf offers immediate, unimpeded (meaning no buffering and no service interruptions) viewing of a favorite film or TV series at high resolution. Additionally, the vast majority of titles also include bonus content — some legacy material and some newly-produced — to contextualize, explore and, yeah, sometimes explain where they came from.
Looking at releases from the end of February and March, there are several titles worth checking out — a couple of current titles arriving on disc after their theatrical runs,...
As studios and distributors chart a path for their wares that — at least for the foreseeable future — prioritizes streaming, collecting physical media continues to become an increasingly rarified hobby. Yet it still remains the best way to guarantee the availability of many titles, often in the best available presentation: a 4K disc on your bookshelf offers immediate, unimpeded (meaning no buffering and no service interruptions) viewing of a favorite film or TV series at high resolution. Additionally, the vast majority of titles also include bonus content — some legacy material and some newly-produced — to contextualize, explore and, yeah, sometimes explain where they came from.
Looking at releases from the end of February and March, there are several titles worth checking out — a couple of current titles arriving on disc after their theatrical runs,...
- 3/29/2024
- by Todd Gilchrist
- Variety Film + TV
Debunking fun and exciting rumors is a dirty job sometimes, but someone has to do it. It stands to reason that a movie like "The Batman: Part II" would attract plenty of attention and interest, given the accolades that rolled in immediately following star Robert Pattinson's highly-anticipated introduction as the grungiest and most emo version of Bruce Wayne/Batman we've seen on the big screen yet. Director Matt Reeves didn't just helm another successful reboot for the most popular DC superhero while putting his own unique spin on it, but he did so by assembling a cast full of our greatest actors around. With stars like Zoë Kravitz, Colin Farrell, Jeffrey Wright, John Turturro, Andy Serkis, and even Paul Dano surrounding Pattinson, it's no surprise that fans would look forward to what other talent might be coming on board for the sequel.
Unfortunately, one extremely solid character actor whose name...
Unfortunately, one extremely solid character actor whose name...
- 3/26/2024
- by Jeremy Mathai
- Slash Film
Most of the plans for the Dceu movie series were scrapped, and the actors were let go. But there was one franchise that survived outside the Dceu umbrella: Matt Reeves’ Batman Universe. This project, separate from the Dceu, has several films in the works.
After ‘The Batman’ hit theaters, talks about ‘The Batman – Part II’ began. In December 2021, Robert Pattinson and Matt Reeves brainstormed ideas for future Batman films, considering introducing Robin and featuring villains like the Court of Owls. Then, in April 2022, Warner Bros. announced the next Batman film with Matt Reeves directing and Robert Pattinson returning as the lead.
After a period of silence, it was announced that the movie, originally set for release in October 2025, has been pushed back by a year, now aiming for an October 2, 2026 release. The reasons for the delay remain unclear, but it’s speculated that the strike may have played a part,...
After ‘The Batman’ hit theaters, talks about ‘The Batman – Part II’ began. In December 2021, Robert Pattinson and Matt Reeves brainstormed ideas for future Batman films, considering introducing Robin and featuring villains like the Court of Owls. Then, in April 2022, Warner Bros. announced the next Batman film with Matt Reeves directing and Robert Pattinson returning as the lead.
After a period of silence, it was announced that the movie, originally set for release in October 2025, has been pushed back by a year, now aiming for an October 2, 2026 release. The reasons for the delay remain unclear, but it’s speculated that the strike may have played a part,...
- 3/26/2024
- by Valentina Kraljik
- Fiction Horizon
The majority of the project planned for the Dceu cinematic universe was canceled and the actors were dismissed. However, one franchise that was developing along Dceu even though it wasn’t technically a part of it survived the onslaught, Mat Reeves’ Batman Universe, which so far has several projects in development.
‘The Batman’ was intended to be only the first in a trilogy of movies and soon after the release ‘Tha Batman – Part II’ was announced. In December 2021, Robert Pattinson and Matt Reeves discussed ideas for future Batman films, including introducing Robin and featuring various villains like the Court of Owls. In April 2022, Warner Bros. announced the development of the next Batman film with Matt Reeves directing and Robert Pattinson starring.
Not much was heard in the following period, except that the movie was scheduled to be released in October 2025. Over a week ago, news came that the movie has been delayed for a year,...
‘The Batman’ was intended to be only the first in a trilogy of movies and soon after the release ‘Tha Batman – Part II’ was announced. In December 2021, Robert Pattinson and Matt Reeves discussed ideas for future Batman films, including introducing Robin and featuring various villains like the Court of Owls. In April 2022, Warner Bros. announced the development of the next Batman film with Matt Reeves directing and Robert Pattinson starring.
Not much was heard in the following period, except that the movie was scheduled to be released in October 2025. Over a week ago, news came that the movie has been delayed for a year,...
- 3/26/2024
- by Valentina Kraljik
- Comic Basics
How Much Did Will Smith Make From His Men in Black Franchise? (Photo Credit – IMDb)
Will Smith is one of the A-list Hollywood stars whose reputation took a massive hit after the 2022 Oscar fiasco. He got banned by the Academy for slapping comedian Chris Rock, and it is one of the most controversial things ever during the Oscars ceremony. Besides that, Will is a brilliant actor who has made many fantastic films to his credit. Smith is among the highest-paid actors, and his fee from the Men in Black franchise proves that. Keep scrolling for more.
Will is not just an efficient actor but also a good musician who has won more than one Grammy Award. He started his journey in acting with the NBC sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Smith is almost always in the news for his movies, his wife Jada Pinkett-Smith‘s shocking claims, or other controversies.
Will Smith is one of the A-list Hollywood stars whose reputation took a massive hit after the 2022 Oscar fiasco. He got banned by the Academy for slapping comedian Chris Rock, and it is one of the most controversial things ever during the Oscars ceremony. Besides that, Will is a brilliant actor who has made many fantastic films to his credit. Smith is among the highest-paid actors, and his fee from the Men in Black franchise proves that. Keep scrolling for more.
Will is not just an efficient actor but also a good musician who has won more than one Grammy Award. He started his journey in acting with the NBC sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Smith is almost always in the news for his movies, his wife Jada Pinkett-Smith‘s shocking claims, or other controversies.
- 3/25/2024
- by Esita Mallik
- KoiMoi
When Steven Spielberg’s “Lincoln” was released in the fall of 2012, one of the nagging complaints — for an otherwise heralded film — related to its ending. Namely, it had too many.
Roger Ebert, in his four-star review, succinctly implied the picture should’ve wrapped before President Lincoln’s assassination. Samuel L. Jackson felt similarly, though he didn’t mince words about it. While it would be a stretch to say the contentious closing scenes chronicling Lincoln’s murder cost the film any of its Oscars — including losses in Best Editing, Best Screenplay, Best Director, and Best Picture — it’s exactly the type of first-thought quibble voters would use as an excuse for choosing their preferred nominee.
Though plenty of pundits backed the chosen ending and “Lincoln’s” sweeping acclaim and staggering box office spoke to its overall appreciation ($275 million for a 150-minute period drama? Martin Scorsese would kill a flower moon...
Roger Ebert, in his four-star review, succinctly implied the picture should’ve wrapped before President Lincoln’s assassination. Samuel L. Jackson felt similarly, though he didn’t mince words about it. While it would be a stretch to say the contentious closing scenes chronicling Lincoln’s murder cost the film any of its Oscars — including losses in Best Editing, Best Screenplay, Best Director, and Best Picture — it’s exactly the type of first-thought quibble voters would use as an excuse for choosing their preferred nominee.
Though plenty of pundits backed the chosen ending and “Lincoln’s” sweeping acclaim and staggering box office spoke to its overall appreciation ($275 million for a 150-minute period drama? Martin Scorsese would kill a flower moon...
- 3/22/2024
- by Ben Travers
- Indiewire
The original “Queen of Country Music,” Loretta Lynn, has done it again. Even after her death, there is no stopping the “Coal Miner’s Daughter” singer. She has had another song certified as Gold.
About Loretta Lynn
Loretta Lynn is one the greatest country music singers and country music songwriters of all time. She passed away on October 4, 2022. She was 90 years old. Her music was considered to be ahead of its time and controversial. It was controversial, her single “The Pill,” a song about birth control pills, was banned from country radio stations.
The movie “Coal Miner’s Daughter” was about the life of Loretta Lynn. It starred Sissy Spacek as Loretta Lynn and Tommy Lee Jones as her husband. This movie was one of the first full-length feature films about a country music artist.
Loretta Lynn paved the way for women in country music. This includes her sister, Crystal Gayle, and her granddaughter,...
About Loretta Lynn
Loretta Lynn is one the greatest country music singers and country music songwriters of all time. She passed away on October 4, 2022. She was 90 years old. Her music was considered to be ahead of its time and controversial. It was controversial, her single “The Pill,” a song about birth control pills, was banned from country radio stations.
The movie “Coal Miner’s Daughter” was about the life of Loretta Lynn. It starred Sissy Spacek as Loretta Lynn and Tommy Lee Jones as her husband. This movie was one of the first full-length feature films about a country music artist.
Loretta Lynn paved the way for women in country music. This includes her sister, Crystal Gayle, and her granddaughter,...
- 3/21/2024
- by Emma Riley Sutton
- Country Music Alley
Harrison Ford is one of the most talented and respected actors in Hollywood. Having starred in some of the most well-known franchises of all time, he has injected himself into the very bones of the film industry as a whole. If there was a film that starred him in some or the other role, there was a high likelihood that it was a hit.
The Fugitive
However, there was one movie of his that ended up becoming quite underrated, getting lost in the flashing lights of his filmography. One that got multiple Oscar nominations. Ford’s 1993 movie, The Fugitive was iconic to say the least, being an excellently told story about a man who was wrongfully accused of killing his wife.
Suggested“It’s only 70 mil”: Samuel L. Jackson had the Most Hilarious Reaction to Harrison Ford Replacing Him as the Highest Grossing Actor
There is one scene in...
The Fugitive
However, there was one movie of his that ended up becoming quite underrated, getting lost in the flashing lights of his filmography. One that got multiple Oscar nominations. Ford’s 1993 movie, The Fugitive was iconic to say the least, being an excellently told story about a man who was wrongfully accused of killing his wife.
Suggested“It’s only 70 mil”: Samuel L. Jackson had the Most Hilarious Reaction to Harrison Ford Replacing Him as the Highest Grossing Actor
There is one scene in...
- 3/17/2024
- by Ananya Godboley
- FandomWire
Jurnee Smollett (“Lovecraft Country”) has joined the cast of Apple TV+’s “Firebug,” in which she’ll star opposite Taron Egerton. Smollett will play Michelle, a “rising star detective.”
“Firebug,” loosely based on true events and inspired by a podcast of the same name, stars Egerton as an “enigmatic arson investigator.” The two characters pursue two serial arsonists. Egerton is also an exec producer on the Apple original series (from Apple Studios), from creator Dennis Lehane.
Lehane also developed and executive produces “Firebug,” which reps a reunion of the team behind Apple TV+’s “Black Bird.” Other exec producers include Richard Plepler (via Eden Productions), Dan Friedkin and Bradley Thomas (through Imperative Entertainment), and Kary Antholis.
Apple points out that the series, set in the contemporary Pacific Northwest, is fictional — although it does take some of the events included in in truth.media’s “Firebug” podcast, which was hosted by Antholis,...
“Firebug,” loosely based on true events and inspired by a podcast of the same name, stars Egerton as an “enigmatic arson investigator.” The two characters pursue two serial arsonists. Egerton is also an exec producer on the Apple original series (from Apple Studios), from creator Dennis Lehane.
Lehane also developed and executive produces “Firebug,” which reps a reunion of the team behind Apple TV+’s “Black Bird.” Other exec producers include Richard Plepler (via Eden Productions), Dan Friedkin and Bradley Thomas (through Imperative Entertainment), and Kary Antholis.
Apple points out that the series, set in the contemporary Pacific Northwest, is fictional — although it does take some of the events included in in truth.media’s “Firebug” podcast, which was hosted by Antholis,...
- 3/13/2024
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Emmy nominee Jurnee Smollett is set to lead the new Apple Original drama series Firebug, loosely inspired by events surrounding notorious California arsonist John Leonard Orr. She will star alongside Taron Egerton in the project developed, written and executive produced by Dennis Lehane.
Firebug will follow a troubled detective and an enigmatic arson investigator (Egerton) as they pursue the trail of two serial arsonists. Smollett will play Michelle, a rising-star detective. Set in the contemporary Pacific Northwest the fictional series uses as its launching pad some events documented in truth.media’s acclaimed Firebug podcast. Orr, the inspiration for the podcast, worked for the Glendale Fire Department in Southern California as a fire captain and arson investigator who later was convicted of being a serial arsonist and mass murderer.
In addition to starring, Egerton will serve as executive producer alongside Richard Plepler through Eden Productions, Dan Friedkin and...
Firebug will follow a troubled detective and an enigmatic arson investigator (Egerton) as they pursue the trail of two serial arsonists. Smollett will play Michelle, a rising-star detective. Set in the contemporary Pacific Northwest the fictional series uses as its launching pad some events documented in truth.media’s acclaimed Firebug podcast. Orr, the inspiration for the podcast, worked for the Glendale Fire Department in Southern California as a fire captain and arson investigator who later was convicted of being a serial arsonist and mass murderer.
In addition to starring, Egerton will serve as executive producer alongside Richard Plepler through Eden Productions, Dan Friedkin and...
- 3/13/2024
- by Rosy Cordero
- Deadline Film + TV
In "Avatar: The Last Airbender," Fire Nation Prince Zuko's most distinguishing feature is the red burn scar on the left side of his face, given to him by his father, Fire Lord Ozai, after Zuko "dishonored" their family. Zukos' growth over the series manifests in acceptance of the scar. As he says in the season 2 finale ("The Crossroads of Destiny"), "I used to think this scar marked me. The mark of the banished prince cursed to chase the Avatar forever. But lately ... I've realized that I'm free to determine my own destiny, even if I'll never be free of my mark."
The scar isn't just there to remind Zuko of his pain or scare the young audience. There's some obvious symbolism too; Zuko literally has a good side and a bad side. It's like Two-Face from Batman (whether played by Tommy Lee Jones or Aaron Eckhart), where a bifurcated face reflects a split soul.
The scar isn't just there to remind Zuko of his pain or scare the young audience. There's some obvious symbolism too; Zuko literally has a good side and a bad side. It's like Two-Face from Batman (whether played by Tommy Lee Jones or Aaron Eckhart), where a bifurcated face reflects a split soul.
- 3/11/2024
- by Devin Meenan
- Slash Film
Variety Awards Circuit section is the home for all awards news and related content throughout the year, featuring the following: the official predictions for the upcoming Oscars, Emmys, Grammys and Tony Awards ceremonies, curated by Variety senior awards editor Clayton Davis. The prediction pages reflect the current standings in the race and do not reflect personal preferences for any individual contender. As other formal (and informal) polls suggest, competitions are fluid and subject to change based on buzz and events. Predictions are updated every Thursday.
Visit the prediction pages for the respective ceremonies via the links below:
Oscars | Emmys | Grammys | Tonys
2024 Oscars Predictions:
Best Supporting Actor Barbie, Ryan Gosling, 2023. © Warner Bos. / Courtesy Everett Collection
Weekly Commentary: There’s no way to prove this statement, but I think Robert Downey Jr is winning by such a wide margin for his work in “Oppenheimer.”
With Critics Choice, Golden Globes, SAG and BAFTA in his pocket,...
Visit the prediction pages for the respective ceremonies via the links below:
Oscars | Emmys | Grammys | Tonys
2024 Oscars Predictions:
Best Supporting Actor Barbie, Ryan Gosling, 2023. © Warner Bos. / Courtesy Everett Collection
Weekly Commentary: There’s no way to prove this statement, but I think Robert Downey Jr is winning by such a wide margin for his work in “Oppenheimer.”
With Critics Choice, Golden Globes, SAG and BAFTA in his pocket,...
- 3/7/2024
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
Dwayne Johnson is not only one of the most talented actors in Hollywood but also one of the highest-paid ones. It is known that any franchise or movie starring the actor will be highly entertaining even if it is not a masterpiece like some of his other movies. This is the reason why he has turned out to be one of the most bankable stars in Hollywood.
Over the years, Johnson has gained the reputation of an action star. This persona suits him well, thanks to his buffed-up appearance and wrestling background. He began his acting career when he was still wrestling and started acting in earnest when he was away from WWE with the 2001 movie The Mummy Returns. In all these years, he has managed to accumulate a net worth that could easily make some of the biggest actors jealous.
Dwayne Johnson in The Scorpion King Dwayne Johnson’s...
Over the years, Johnson has gained the reputation of an action star. This persona suits him well, thanks to his buffed-up appearance and wrestling background. He began his acting career when he was still wrestling and started acting in earnest when he was away from WWE with the 2001 movie The Mummy Returns. In all these years, he has managed to accumulate a net worth that could easily make some of the biggest actors jealous.
Dwayne Johnson in The Scorpion King Dwayne Johnson’s...
- 3/6/2024
- by Ankita
- FandomWire
Howdy, partner! Ever wondered what happens when the wild, wild West meets the cold, cold chills of horror? Well, buckle up, buttercup, because we’re about to take you on a ghostly gallop through the most thrilling horror westerns this side of the Mississippi. Imagine a world where tumbleweeds meet terror, and saloons are not just serving whiskey but dishing out scares by the shotful!
These 10 horror westerns are the perfect blend of gun-slinging grit and supernatural spookiness, promising tales that’ll have you clinging to your cowboy hat. So, if you’re ready to explore the eerie expanses where the only things deader than the desert are the ghosts haunting it, then you’ve hitched your wagon to the right post. Let’s dive into the dusty, deserted streets of horror westerns!
Rlje 10. The Pale Door (2020)
Imagine a daring train heist that takes an unexpected turn, spiraling into a...
These 10 horror westerns are the perfect blend of gun-slinging grit and supernatural spookiness, promising tales that’ll have you clinging to your cowboy hat. So, if you’re ready to explore the eerie expanses where the only things deader than the desert are the ghosts haunting it, then you’ve hitched your wagon to the right post. Let’s dive into the dusty, deserted streets of horror westerns!
Rlje 10. The Pale Door (2020)
Imagine a daring train heist that takes an unexpected turn, spiraling into a...
- 2/26/2024
- by Kimberley Elizabeth
If you know your Quentin Tarantino lore, you’ll know that one of his favourite films of all time is John Flynn’s Rolling Thunder. A gritty revenge flick, the 1977 movie was such an influence on Tarantino that he named his short-lived distribution company, Rolling Thunder Pictures, after it. He explains his love of the film in detail in his epic film book, Cinema Speculation. Now, the film is set to get a 4K special edition courtesy of Shout Factory, which comes packed with extras.
If you’ve never seen it, Rolling Thunder is a pretty incredible film. Paul Schrader originally wrote it, but it was heavily rewritten by Heywood Gould (Cocktail). It follows a Nam P.O.W., Major Charles Rane (William Devane), who returns to his home in San Antonio after seven years in Hanoi. Having long come to terms with the fact that he was unlikely ever to return home,...
If you’ve never seen it, Rolling Thunder is a pretty incredible film. Paul Schrader originally wrote it, but it was heavily rewritten by Heywood Gould (Cocktail). It follows a Nam P.O.W., Major Charles Rane (William Devane), who returns to his home in San Antonio after seven years in Hanoi. Having long come to terms with the fact that he was unlikely ever to return home,...
- 2/25/2024
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
Aaron Stanford is returning to the MCU, as it was revealed in the Deadpool & Wolverine trailer released during the Superbowl on Sunday. He is reprising the role of Pyro which he portrayed in X2 and X-Men: The Last Stand.
“I’m very excited to be revisiting this role, and couldn’t think of a better place for Pyro’s resurrection than the Deadpool universe,” Standford tells Deadline in a statement.
While details as to the plot of the film have thus far been under wraps, director Shawn Levy told Deadline at last year’s Toronto Film Festival that the goal was for the film to feel “grounded” and “real” — more like “a descendant of Midnight Run, and 48 Hours, and Planes, Trains and Automobiles” than “a descendant of Airplane.”
In a recent appearance on BroBible’s Post-Credit podcast, Matthew Vaughn, the filmmaker behind Marvel titles like X-Men: First Class,...
“I’m very excited to be revisiting this role, and couldn’t think of a better place for Pyro’s resurrection than the Deadpool universe,” Standford tells Deadline in a statement.
While details as to the plot of the film have thus far been under wraps, director Shawn Levy told Deadline at last year’s Toronto Film Festival that the goal was for the film to feel “grounded” and “real” — more like “a descendant of Midnight Run, and 48 Hours, and Planes, Trains and Automobiles” than “a descendant of Airplane.”
In a recent appearance on BroBible’s Post-Credit podcast, Matthew Vaughn, the filmmaker behind Marvel titles like X-Men: First Class,...
- 2/13/2024
- by Rosy Cordero
- Deadline Film + TV
Despite no longer being a part of Yellowstone’s next season, Kevin Costner seems to be busier than ever. First up, he’s got a two-part Western epic called Horizon: An American Saga that’s coming out this summer, and now, Deadline is reporting that the actor’s got another “longtime passion project” ready to roll. While there are no specifics on what it may be, Costner is set to produce and star in the untitled film, with the director of his 2016 thriller Criminal, Ariel Vromen, at the helm.
In the article, no specifics are given, although Costner has been open about certain long-planned projects in the past. One is his book, The Explorer’s Guild, which he wrote with his Horizon collaborator Jon Baird and was called an Indiana Jones-style globetrotting adventure. It could be anything, although given Vromen’s track record, which includes based-on-fact thrillers, The Iceman (with...
In the article, no specifics are given, although Costner has been open about certain long-planned projects in the past. One is his book, The Explorer’s Guild, which he wrote with his Horizon collaborator Jon Baird and was called an Indiana Jones-style globetrotting adventure. It could be anything, although given Vromen’s track record, which includes based-on-fact thrillers, The Iceman (with...
- 2/6/2024
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
Exclusive: After mounting the two-part Civil War epic Horizon: An American Saga for Warner Bros and New Line, Academy Award winner Kevin Costner has selected his next film to produce and star in, that being an as-yet-untitled picture that Ariel Vromen will direct from a script owned by the actor.
“I could not be more honored to be reunited with my friend and collaborator,” said Vromen in a statement to Deadline, “especially on Kevin’s longtime passion project.”
Pic’s plot is under wraps and further details are scarce, but production is expected to kick off in early 2025. This will be Costner and Vromen’s second film together, on the heels of the 2016 action thriller Criminal co-starring Gary Oldman and Tommy Lee Jones. News of the project comes as Vromen awaits the release of his latest, 1992 — a drama on the 1992 Los Angeles riots, starring Tyrese Gibson, Scott Eastwood and the late Ray Liotta,...
“I could not be more honored to be reunited with my friend and collaborator,” said Vromen in a statement to Deadline, “especially on Kevin’s longtime passion project.”
Pic’s plot is under wraps and further details are scarce, but production is expected to kick off in early 2025. This will be Costner and Vromen’s second film together, on the heels of the 2016 action thriller Criminal co-starring Gary Oldman and Tommy Lee Jones. News of the project comes as Vromen awaits the release of his latest, 1992 — a drama on the 1992 Los Angeles riots, starring Tyrese Gibson, Scott Eastwood and the late Ray Liotta,...
- 2/6/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
This post contains spoilers for this week’s episode of True Detective: Night Country, which is now streaming on Max.
The third chapter of Night Country begins and ends with women screaming. The late Annie K is there for both scenes — the first a flashback, the second a shaky cell phone video. But in the flashback, Annie and her friends are helping women through labor at a birthing center, and the screams are part of the natural, often happy, circle of life. And in the selfie video, Annie’s screams...
The third chapter of Night Country begins and ends with women screaming. The late Annie K is there for both scenes — the first a flashback, the second a shaky cell phone video. But in the flashback, Annie and her friends are helping women through labor at a birthing center, and the screams are part of the natural, often happy, circle of life. And in the selfie video, Annie’s screams...
- 1/29/2024
- by Alan Sepinwall
- Rollingstone.com
Not every horror movie is going to connect with critics, no matter how much the public loves it or if its wider reputation grows more favorably over time. These range from cult classics that earned legions of devoted fans to maligned sequels and reboots that didn't deserve the critical hate they got upon release. Simply put, even the most poorly reviewed horror flicks deserve a reappraisal and are, at the very least worth a look from the curious and unfamiliar.
There are plenty of horror movies that hold a rotten critics' approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes that still make for interesting, and in many cases, even great viewings. With everything from supernatural giallo movies to slasher sequels that subvert expectations, there is a horror movie for every scary sensibility. Here are the 15 horror flicks that didn't connect with most critics that should be given at least one solid viewing.
Read...
There are plenty of horror movies that hold a rotten critics' approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes that still make for interesting, and in many cases, even great viewings. With everything from supernatural giallo movies to slasher sequels that subvert expectations, there is a horror movie for every scary sensibility. Here are the 15 horror flicks that didn't connect with most critics that should be given at least one solid viewing.
Read...
- 1/27/2024
- by Samuel Stone
- Slash Film
Three decades ago, a virtually unknown young Leonardo DiCaprio received his first Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor in the small coming-of-age film “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape?”
This year, the world-famous Academy Award winner finds himself in something of a reverse situation. His “Killers of the Flower Moon” was celebrated with 10 Oscar noms, including Best Director for Martin Scorsese, Best Actress for Lily Gladstone and Best Supporting Actor for Robert De Niro. Despite headlining the film, DiCaprio was left out of the Best Actor lineup.
As most awards watchers know, his omission was not exactly a surprise. But given that, back in October, he was considered a shoo-in to earn his seventh acting bid, it is just a tad peculiar. So why was DiCaprio snubbed? Here are five reasons why.
1. It wasn’t considered a career-best performance.
As one of the premiere actors of his generation, the bar is exceptionally high for someone like Leo.
This year, the world-famous Academy Award winner finds himself in something of a reverse situation. His “Killers of the Flower Moon” was celebrated with 10 Oscar noms, including Best Director for Martin Scorsese, Best Actress for Lily Gladstone and Best Supporting Actor for Robert De Niro. Despite headlining the film, DiCaprio was left out of the Best Actor lineup.
As most awards watchers know, his omission was not exactly a surprise. But given that, back in October, he was considered a shoo-in to earn his seventh acting bid, it is just a tad peculiar. So why was DiCaprio snubbed? Here are five reasons why.
1. It wasn’t considered a career-best performance.
As one of the premiere actors of his generation, the bar is exceptionally high for someone like Leo.
- 1/24/2024
- by Tariq Khan
- Gold Derby
“Come with me if you want to live!” But don’t bother if you don’t care for James Cameron’s movies. Michael Biehn — who played Kyle Reese in 1984’s The Terminator — revealed that singer Sting turned down playing the character because he didn’t like the director’s previous work…Piranha II: The Spawning.
Biehn — who was also featured in deleted scenes in Terminator 2: Judgment Day — remembered Sting’s fateful words to Cameron during the casting process, telling Michael Rosenbaum on his podcast, “I think originally [James Cameron] wanted Sting because he thought Sting had this unearthly quality about him. And I think he met with Sting, and I think Sting basically said, ‘Yeah, I just saw Piranha 2. I think I’ll take a pass on this thing.’ Something along those lines. I’m not sure how serious Jim was about him. I’ve never heard any other name associated with Kyle Reese.
Biehn — who was also featured in deleted scenes in Terminator 2: Judgment Day — remembered Sting’s fateful words to Cameron during the casting process, telling Michael Rosenbaum on his podcast, “I think originally [James Cameron] wanted Sting because he thought Sting had this unearthly quality about him. And I think he met with Sting, and I think Sting basically said, ‘Yeah, I just saw Piranha 2. I think I’ll take a pass on this thing.’ Something along those lines. I’m not sure how serious Jim was about him. I’ve never heard any other name associated with Kyle Reese.
- 1/23/2024
- by Mathew Plale
- JoBlo.com
BAFTA released their nominations on January 18 and, it’s fair to say, they were pretty wild. There some shocking omissions, including Greta Gerwig being snubbed for Best Director for “Barbie” and Lily Gladstone missing out on a Best Actress nomination for “Killers of the Flower Moon.”
The flip of that side, however, means that there were a few pleasant surprises in the British academy’s lists. None more so than Teo Yoo, who reaped a Best Actor bid for his stirring performance in Celine Song‘s “Past Lives.” The A24 movie follows two former childhood best friends who reconnect as adults and find that they are still drawn to each other. Yoo delivers a quiet performance but is commanding and appealing on screen, at once a mysterious figure of masculinity and a gentle soul who, in many ways, still is his childhood self. It’s a delicate performance but a powerful one.
The flip of that side, however, means that there were a few pleasant surprises in the British academy’s lists. None more so than Teo Yoo, who reaped a Best Actor bid for his stirring performance in Celine Song‘s “Past Lives.” The A24 movie follows two former childhood best friends who reconnect as adults and find that they are still drawn to each other. Yoo delivers a quiet performance but is commanding and appealing on screen, at once a mysterious figure of masculinity and a gentle soul who, in many ways, still is his childhood self. It’s a delicate performance but a powerful one.
- 1/20/2024
- by Jacob Sarkisian
- Gold Derby
M3GAN (Universal Pictures), Taken 3 (20th Century Studios), Paddington 2 (Warner Bros.), Cloverfield (Paramount Pictures)Graphic: The A.V. Club (AP)
Historically and annually speaking, January is a bad month for Hollywood movies. It’s a “dump month,” that time of year when the major studios offload the projects in which they have no faith.
Historically and annually speaking, January is a bad month for Hollywood movies. It’s a “dump month,” that time of year when the major studios offload the projects in which they have no faith.
- 1/19/2024
- by A.V. Club Staff
- avclub.com
As Andrea Riseborough (“To Leslie”), Penélope Cruz (“Parallel Mothers”), and Lakeith Stanfield (“Judas and the Black Messiah”) have proven in recent years, there is ample precedent for performers to earn Oscar nominations despite snubs at the BAFTA, Critics Choice, Golden Globe, and SAG Awards. Indeed, 18 such instances have occurred since 2002, the first year that all four precursor prizes were preceded by official nominations.
Over the last 22 years, each of the four acting Oscar categories has produced at least three out-of-the-blue bids. However, none of the performers who overcame their four earlier snubs managed to clinch the gold and instead had to settle for being Oscar finalists.
It’s worth noting that Marcia Gay Harden won the Best Supporting Actress Oscar for “Pollock” without any precursor bids, albeit in 2001 when there were no Critics Choice nominations. The four precursor trophies were evenly distributed among her Oscar competitors: Judi Dench, Kate Hudson,...
Over the last 22 years, each of the four acting Oscar categories has produced at least three out-of-the-blue bids. However, none of the performers who overcame their four earlier snubs managed to clinch the gold and instead had to settle for being Oscar finalists.
It’s worth noting that Marcia Gay Harden won the Best Supporting Actress Oscar for “Pollock” without any precursor bids, albeit in 2001 when there were no Critics Choice nominations. The four precursor trophies were evenly distributed among her Oscar competitors: Judi Dench, Kate Hudson,...
- 1/18/2024
- by Matthew Stewart
- Gold Derby
There is plenty of precedent for performers to still earn Oscar nominations after snubs by the Critics Choice Awards, Golden Globes and SAG Awards. Last year, Andrea Riseborough became the latest Oscar contender to come out of nowhere when she reaped a Best Actress bid for “To Leslie.”
She joined a roster of 23 other performers who heard their names on Oscar nominations morning despite being repeatedly overlooked earlier in awards season. However, for all of those who overcame these earlier snubs the nomination had to be reward enough as none took home the Oscar.
(Note: Marcia Gay Harden won the Best Supporting Actress Oscar for “Pollock” without any precursor bids. However, that was in 2001, the year before the Critics Choice introduced nominations. Frances McDormand won with that group for both “Almost Famous” and “Wonder Boys,” Kate Hudson took home the Globe for “Almost Famous” and Judi Dench prevailed at SAG for “Chocolat.
She joined a roster of 23 other performers who heard their names on Oscar nominations morning despite being repeatedly overlooked earlier in awards season. However, for all of those who overcame these earlier snubs the nomination had to be reward enough as none took home the Oscar.
(Note: Marcia Gay Harden won the Best Supporting Actress Oscar for “Pollock” without any precursor bids. However, that was in 2001, the year before the Critics Choice introduced nominations. Frances McDormand won with that group for both “Almost Famous” and “Wonder Boys,” Kate Hudson took home the Globe for “Almost Famous” and Judi Dench prevailed at SAG for “Chocolat.
- 1/15/2024
- by Paul Sheehan and Matthew Stewart
- Gold Derby
Ever since “The Holdovers” premiered at the 2023 Telluride Film Festival, 21-year-old Dominic Sessa has steadily attracted heaps of praise for his debut performance as one of its central characters. Despite earning recognition from some critics groups, he now unfortunately sits as a BAFTA longlist contender with no other key industry precursor bids. However, there is plenty of precedent for performers to still earn Oscar nominations after snubs by the Critics Choice Awards, Golden Globes and SAG Awards.
Below, we list the 24 performers who pulled off Oscar nominations surprises after being overlooked earlier in awards season. However, for all of those who overcame these earlier snubs the nomination had to be reward enough as none took home the Oscar. Andrea Riseborough (“To Leslie”) is the latest addition to this list for her Best Actress bid last year.
(Note: Marcia Gay Harden won the Best Supporting Actress Oscar for “Pollock” without any precursor bids.
Below, we list the 24 performers who pulled off Oscar nominations surprises after being overlooked earlier in awards season. However, for all of those who overcame these earlier snubs the nomination had to be reward enough as none took home the Oscar. Andrea Riseborough (“To Leslie”) is the latest addition to this list for her Best Actress bid last year.
(Note: Marcia Gay Harden won the Best Supporting Actress Oscar for “Pollock” without any precursor bids.
- 1/11/2024
- by Paul Sheehan and Matthew Stewart
- Gold Derby
It’s a mystery wrapped in a riddle inside an enigma.
So says Joe Pesci’s David Ferrie during a critical scene in Oliver Stone’s JFK, a movie being revisited for a few reasons. One is that Shout Factory just put out a 4K restoration that reissues both the director’s cut and theatrical cuts of these films. But, we’re also revisiting it due to the fact director Oliver Stone, more than thirty years after the film’s release, is still utterly fascinated by the assassination. His recent documentary, JFK: Through the Looking Glass, served as a bookend to the film, while another documentary, Citizen Stone, is in production and examines how the film, in some ways, served as his undoing, a notion I can’t say I agree with.
Whatever the case, JFK is a fascinating piece of work that was one of the most provocative films of the 90s.
So says Joe Pesci’s David Ferrie during a critical scene in Oliver Stone’s JFK, a movie being revisited for a few reasons. One is that Shout Factory just put out a 4K restoration that reissues both the director’s cut and theatrical cuts of these films. But, we’re also revisiting it due to the fact director Oliver Stone, more than thirty years after the film’s release, is still utterly fascinated by the assassination. His recent documentary, JFK: Through the Looking Glass, served as a bookend to the film, while another documentary, Citizen Stone, is in production and examines how the film, in some ways, served as his undoing, a notion I can’t say I agree with.
Whatever the case, JFK is a fascinating piece of work that was one of the most provocative films of the 90s.
- 1/10/2024
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
Graphic: The A.V. Club, The A.V. Club, The A.V. Club, The A.V. Club, Image: Universal Pictures, The A.V. Club, Netflix, Photo: Frazer Harrison (Getty Images), Screenshot: Paramount Pictures/YouTube
The most anticipated films of 2024Clockwise from bottom left: Madame Web (Sony Pictures), Inside Out 2 (Disney/Pixar), Dune: Part 2...
The most anticipated films of 2024Clockwise from bottom left: Madame Web (Sony Pictures), Inside Out 2 (Disney/Pixar), Dune: Part 2...
- 1/6/2024
- avclub.com
Clockwise L to R: Ayo Edebiri and Rachel Sennott in Bottoms (Image: Orion Pictures), Nicolas Cage in Dream Scenario (Image: A24), Tommy Lee Jones, Jamie Foxx in The Burial (Image: Prime Video), Julia Louis-Dreyfus in You Hurt My Feelings (Image: A24)
Graphic: The A.V. Club
There are only so...
Graphic: The A.V. Club
There are only so...
- 1/1/2024
- by Cindy White
- avclub.com
Following The Film Stage’s collective top 50 films of 2023, as part of our year-end coverage, our contributors are sharing their personal top 10 lists.
After 2022 left me feeling a bit out in weeds in regards to film culture, I came into 2023 a pessimist and left with a rejuvenated belief that the movies are, indeed, back. This year was overflowing with riches, to the point where even up until this very moment I’m mentally swapping in and out some titles for the list you’re about to see of my annual favorites.
There’s just too many gems I don’t want to leave behind, and they came in all shapes and sizes. From some of my favorite directors making highly anticipated returns (including one for their final feature) to filmmakers I’ve always been cold on for the first time making something that has nestled its way into my heart...
After 2022 left me feeling a bit out in weeds in regards to film culture, I came into 2023 a pessimist and left with a rejuvenated belief that the movies are, indeed, back. This year was overflowing with riches, to the point where even up until this very moment I’m mentally swapping in and out some titles for the list you’re about to see of my annual favorites.
There’s just too many gems I don’t want to leave behind, and they came in all shapes and sizes. From some of my favorite directors making highly anticipated returns (including one for their final feature) to filmmakers I’ve always been cold on for the first time making something that has nestled its way into my heart...
- 12/22/2023
- by Mitchell Beaupre
- The Film Stage
Ryan Gosling is one of the biggest contenders for the Best Supporting Actor Oscar this year for his role as Ken in Greta Gerwig‘s smash hit “Barbie.” The Warner Bros. movie follows Margot Robbie‘s titular Barbie as she leaves Barbie Land for the real world in search of answers after suffering an existential crisis. Gosling’s performance as Ken has brought him plenty of plaudits, leading to a strong case for Best Supporting Actor in this year’s Oscars race.
However, this isn’t the first Oscars race Gosling has been in as he’s received two Academy Award nominations before. Let’s take a look back at them.
Gosling was first nominated in 2007 when he received a Best Actor notice for “Half Nelson,” which follows Gosling as a junior high school teacher with a drug habit. Gosling’s teacher forms a friendship with one of his students...
However, this isn’t the first Oscars race Gosling has been in as he’s received two Academy Award nominations before. Let’s take a look back at them.
Gosling was first nominated in 2007 when he received a Best Actor notice for “Half Nelson,” which follows Gosling as a junior high school teacher with a drug habit. Gosling’s teacher forms a friendship with one of his students...
- 12/19/2023
- by Jacob Sarkisian
- Gold Derby
"Finestkind" is a new crime thriller feature, written and directed by Brian Helgeland, starring Ben Foster, Toby Wallace, Jenna Ortega and Tommy Lee Jones, streaming December 15, 2023 on Paramount+:
"...two estranged brothers hatch a deal with a Boston crime syndicate, which spells danger for the brothers and their father as well as a mysterious young woman..."
Click the images to enlarge...
"...two estranged brothers hatch a deal with a Boston crime syndicate, which spells danger for the brothers and their father as well as a mysterious young woman..."
Click the images to enlarge...
- 12/17/2023
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
The word Finestkind has no specific meaning, and we’re told so by one of the protagonists of the film, which is also called the same. It could be something cool, something exceptional, or something much different. Although in the film, Finestkind happens to be the name of a fishing boat, which plays a very (actually the most) important part in the narrative. Director Brian Helgeland’s 2023 crime drama, starring names like Ben Foster, Toby Wallace, Jenna Ortega, and the indomitable Tommy Lee Jones, is a film where you can see a lot of effort. This is a very personal story for the director, as he has been waiting almost three decades to tell it. As touching as that sounds, what we have here is a film that’s all over the place with the narrative. But the story it tells can be described with a term I generally refrain from using: heart.
- 12/16/2023
- by Rohitavra Majumdar
- Film Fugitives
James Gunn Talks About Joaquin Phoenix’s Joker 2 Being Out Of The New Dcu, Here’s What Netizens Say! ( Photo Credit – Wikimedia; IMDb )
As the new Dcu co-head, James Gunn has yet to show his skill in this comic book movie universe. While the fans eagerly wait for updates on his Superman: Legacy, Gunn talks about Joker 2 and Matt Reeves’ The Batman. Joker 2: Folie a Deux will see the return of Joaquin Phoenix as the Clown Prince of Crime, and Gunn reveals giving insights to director Todd Philips for the upcoming movie! Scroll below to find out more.
Phoenix won an Oscar for his portrayal of Arthur Fleck, and this time, he will be accompanied by Lady Gaga. Gaga will appear as Harley Quinn, opposite Phoenix’s character. On the other hand, Pattinson’s The Batman movie received a lot of love and appreciation from the audience.
As the new Dcu co-head, James Gunn has yet to show his skill in this comic book movie universe. While the fans eagerly wait for updates on his Superman: Legacy, Gunn talks about Joker 2 and Matt Reeves’ The Batman. Joker 2: Folie a Deux will see the return of Joaquin Phoenix as the Clown Prince of Crime, and Gunn reveals giving insights to director Todd Philips for the upcoming movie! Scroll below to find out more.
Phoenix won an Oscar for his portrayal of Arthur Fleck, and this time, he will be accompanied by Lady Gaga. Gaga will appear as Harley Quinn, opposite Phoenix’s character. On the other hand, Pattinson’s The Batman movie received a lot of love and appreciation from the audience.
- 12/16/2023
- by Esita Mallik
- KoiMoi
Matthew Perry’s Cause Of Death Revealed ( Photo Credit – Instagram )
Friends star Matthew Perry passed away around two months back, leaving us all shattered and in disbelief. The cause of his death has been finally discovered, and it is due to the drug ketamine. The report revealed that Perry had a history of drug abuse but also mentioned that the actor had been sober for the last nineteen months. Keep scrolling to learn more about the beloved actor’s tragic demise.
Perry became a household name after starring in Friends from 1994 to 2004. His character, Chandler Bing, resonated with many people, making him one of the most loved characters on Friends. In real life, the writers of the hit sitcom would turn to Perry for suggestions for scenes as he was good with one-liners and had a fantastic sense of humor.
Matthew Perry left a void in everyone’s life when...
Friends star Matthew Perry passed away around two months back, leaving us all shattered and in disbelief. The cause of his death has been finally discovered, and it is due to the drug ketamine. The report revealed that Perry had a history of drug abuse but also mentioned that the actor had been sober for the last nineteen months. Keep scrolling to learn more about the beloved actor’s tragic demise.
Perry became a household name after starring in Friends from 1994 to 2004. His character, Chandler Bing, resonated with many people, making him one of the most loved characters on Friends. In real life, the writers of the hit sitcom would turn to Perry for suggestions for scenes as he was good with one-liners and had a fantastic sense of humor.
Matthew Perry left a void in everyone’s life when...
- 12/16/2023
- by Esita Mallik
- KoiMoi
Plot: A law school-bound University grad (Toby Wallace) decides to spend his summer working with his fisherman half-brother (Ben Foster) in the hopes of finding adventure. But, he soon realizes that despite the rewarding work, you can only push things so far, as debts pile up and the brothers flirt with organized crime.
Review: You can understand where Brian Helgeland’s Finestkind is going from the start. As soon as fresh-faced Charlie (Toby Wallace) convinces his taciturn older half-brother, Tom (Ben Foster), to let him join his crew of hard-living fishermen, you know it’s not going to end with a pat on the back for a job well done. This is especially true once he lays eyes on a heartbreaking local girl, Mabel (Jenna Ortega), who he spies doing a drug deal with a crew member. Yet, even though nothing terribly surprising happens over the two-hour running time, it...
Review: You can understand where Brian Helgeland’s Finestkind is going from the start. As soon as fresh-faced Charlie (Toby Wallace) convinces his taciturn older half-brother, Tom (Ben Foster), to let him join his crew of hard-living fishermen, you know it’s not going to end with a pat on the back for a job well done. This is especially true once he lays eyes on a heartbreaking local girl, Mabel (Jenna Ortega), who he spies doing a drug deal with a crew member. Yet, even though nothing terribly surprising happens over the two-hour running time, it...
- 12/15/2023
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
Finestkind Movie Review Rating:
Star Cast: Jenna Ortega, Tommy Lee Jones, Ben Foster, Toby Wallace, Aaron Stanford, and Tim Daly.
Director: Brian Helgeland
Finestkind Movie Review Out! (Picture Credit: Youtube)
What’s Good: Jenna Ortega, Tommy Lee Jones and Ben Foster are always a delight.
What’s Bad: The movie doesn’t know what it wants to be, or what it is, and the entire plot feels pointless.
Loo Break: The first hour and 20 minutes is as disposable as they come, so take your time at the loo.
Watch or Not?: It is best if you avoid this one, there are many better films that are actually good, especially in this end of the year period.
Language: English (with subtitles).
Available On: Paramount+
Runtime: 126 Minutes
User Rating:
Finestkind is a film written and directed by Brian Helgeland, and his first film since the inconsistent “Legend” from 2015. The film tells...
Star Cast: Jenna Ortega, Tommy Lee Jones, Ben Foster, Toby Wallace, Aaron Stanford, and Tim Daly.
Director: Brian Helgeland
Finestkind Movie Review Out! (Picture Credit: Youtube)
What’s Good: Jenna Ortega, Tommy Lee Jones and Ben Foster are always a delight.
What’s Bad: The movie doesn’t know what it wants to be, or what it is, and the entire plot feels pointless.
Loo Break: The first hour and 20 minutes is as disposable as they come, so take your time at the loo.
Watch or Not?: It is best if you avoid this one, there are many better films that are actually good, especially in this end of the year period.
Language: English (with subtitles).
Available On: Paramount+
Runtime: 126 Minutes
User Rating:
Finestkind is a film written and directed by Brian Helgeland, and his first film since the inconsistent “Legend” from 2015. The film tells...
- 12/15/2023
- by Nelson Acosta
- KoiMoi
Tommy Lee Jones & Jenna Ortega’s Awkward Exchange At The Finestkind Premiere Goes Viral! (Picture Credit: Flickr & Instagram)
Tommy Lee Jones and Jenna Ortega’s recent exchange at the premiere of their film, Finestkind, has gone viral, but for all the wrong reasons. Jones, who was seen posing at the Pacific Design Center on Tuesday in West Hollywood, had all the questions for Jenna when she joined him at the red carpet.
Men in Black star and Wednesday fame’s conversation at the Finestkind premiere has now been dubbed as “awkward” by many netizens, just ahead of the release of their film, which debuted on Paramount+ on Friday, Dec. 15.
Finestkind follows two half-brothers who, after growing apart, get back together and work out a plan with a Boston-based organized crime group, which poses a threat to the two brothers, their father, and a young woman. In addition to Jones and Ortega,...
Tommy Lee Jones and Jenna Ortega’s recent exchange at the premiere of their film, Finestkind, has gone viral, but for all the wrong reasons. Jones, who was seen posing at the Pacific Design Center on Tuesday in West Hollywood, had all the questions for Jenna when she joined him at the red carpet.
Men in Black star and Wednesday fame’s conversation at the Finestkind premiere has now been dubbed as “awkward” by many netizens, just ahead of the release of their film, which debuted on Paramount+ on Friday, Dec. 15.
Finestkind follows two half-brothers who, after growing apart, get back together and work out a plan with a Boston-based organized crime group, which poses a threat to the two brothers, their father, and a young woman. In addition to Jones and Ortega,...
- 12/15/2023
- by Shivani Negi
- KoiMoi
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