A film chronicling the relationship between Black Sabbath frontman Ozzy Osbourne and Sharon Osbourne is in the works.
A biopic about Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne is still in the works.
The as-yet-untitled film was formally announced in October 2021, when it was confirmed that both Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne’s music will feature.
Sony Pictures and Polygram are behind the project, which will focus on a twenty year period between 1979 and 1999. Lee Hall, who won huge acclaim for his screenplay for Elton John biopic Rocketman in 2018, will write the script.
Sharon and Jack Osbourne revealed the update on their podcast The Osbournes (as picked up by Planet Rock), where Ozzy, in typically unabashed style, commented on the slow progress of the film, saying “By the time it’s eventually filmed, I’ll be dead! I wanna be alive to f—ing see it”.
Going on to discuss who could play Ozzy,...
A biopic about Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne is still in the works.
The as-yet-untitled film was formally announced in October 2021, when it was confirmed that both Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne’s music will feature.
Sony Pictures and Polygram are behind the project, which will focus on a twenty year period between 1979 and 1999. Lee Hall, who won huge acclaim for his screenplay for Elton John biopic Rocketman in 2018, will write the script.
Sharon and Jack Osbourne revealed the update on their podcast The Osbournes (as picked up by Planet Rock), where Ozzy, in typically unabashed style, commented on the slow progress of the film, saying “By the time it’s eventually filmed, I’ll be dead! I wanna be alive to f—ing see it”.
Going on to discuss who could play Ozzy,...
- 3/13/2024
- by Jake Godfrey
- Film Stories
BET+ is turning to Chris “Ludacris” Bridges for its next scripted foray.
The streaming service is developing a half-hour dramedy inspired by the life of the rapper-actor, The Hollywood Reporter has learned.
The streamer says the untitled DJ project is inspired by Ludacris’ “experience coming up in the competitive music scene in Atlanta as DJ Chris Lova Lova, the series follows the misadventures of a sharply drawn ensemble who are willing to do anything and everything to bolster ratings at their hip hop radio station.”
Noah Gardenswartz (Marvelous Mrs. Maisel) will write the script and exec produce the potential series, which is currently in the development stage. Ludacris is on board as an exec producer and will serve as music supervisor. The series hails from Universal Television and Disturbing Tha Peace, the label Ludacris launched in the 1990s alongside his manager Chaka Zulu (who will also exec produce). Larry Wilmore,...
The streaming service is developing a half-hour dramedy inspired by the life of the rapper-actor, The Hollywood Reporter has learned.
The streamer says the untitled DJ project is inspired by Ludacris’ “experience coming up in the competitive music scene in Atlanta as DJ Chris Lova Lova, the series follows the misadventures of a sharply drawn ensemble who are willing to do anything and everything to bolster ratings at their hip hop radio station.”
Noah Gardenswartz (Marvelous Mrs. Maisel) will write the script and exec produce the potential series, which is currently in the development stage. Ludacris is on board as an exec producer and will serve as music supervisor. The series hails from Universal Television and Disturbing Tha Peace, the label Ludacris launched in the 1990s alongside his manager Chaka Zulu (who will also exec produce). Larry Wilmore,...
- 1/22/2024
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Photograph courtesy of A&e Networks A&e will premiere the two-night documentary event “James Brown: Say It Loud” delving into the immeasurable musical and cultural impact of the entertainment icon. Directed by Deborah Riley Draper (The Legacy of Black Wall Street, Versailles ’73: American Runway Revolution) and executive produced by legendary artist Mick Jagger, Academy Award® winner Ahmir ‘Questlove’ Thompson, Tariq ‘Black Thought’ Trotter, Peter Afterman, David Blackman, Victoria Pearman, Bruce Resnikoff, Shawn Gee, Zarah Zohlman, Charlie Cohen, and Mari Keiko Gonzalez, the documentary examines Brown’s incredible life that was as innovative as it was influential. The special examines Brown’s legacy through exclusive interviews, never-before-seen archival footage and his beloved music catalog. “James Brown: Say it Loud” premieres Monday, February 19 and Tuesday, February 20 at 8Pm Et/Pt on A&e. Across four hours, “James Brown: Say it Loud” traces the incredible trajectory of Brown’s life and career from...
- 1/20/2024
- by Hollywood Outbreak
- HollywoodOutbreak.com
Exclusive: After partnering with LeBron James on the 2018 HBO documentary Student Athlete, Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy (Ms. Marvel) and Trish Dalton (Election Year) have reteamed for Reggae Girlz, a feature doc telling the untold story of the Jamaican women’s national football team and their inspirational journey, both on and off the field, to the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Currently shooting in Jamaica, the new film hails from Red Bull Studios, Astronaut Films, Polygram Entertainment and Cedella Marley/Tuff Gong Collective, watching as the Jamaican women’s soccer team, also known as The Reggae Girlz, make a roaring entrance onto the international stage. After failing to qualify for the 2007 World Cup and the subsequent Olympic Games, the team was disbanded in 2008. But in 2014, Bob and Rita Marley’s eldest daughter, Cedella, made it her mission to resurrect The Reggae Girlz, since then helping to lead them to become the first Caribbean team,...
Currently shooting in Jamaica, the new film hails from Red Bull Studios, Astronaut Films, Polygram Entertainment and Cedella Marley/Tuff Gong Collective, watching as the Jamaican women’s soccer team, also known as The Reggae Girlz, make a roaring entrance onto the international stage. After failing to qualify for the 2007 World Cup and the subsequent Olympic Games, the team was disbanded in 2008. But in 2014, Bob and Rita Marley’s eldest daughter, Cedella, made it her mission to resurrect The Reggae Girlz, since then helping to lead them to become the first Caribbean team,...
- 6/29/2023
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Polygram Entertainment, the film and television division of Universal Music Group, has announced that Daniel Inkeles will become the new senior vice president of film and television development and production.
Prior to his promotion, Inkeles was the vice president of scripted film and television for Umg. In that role he served as executive producer of NBC’s musical comedy “Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist.” During the series’ two-season run, it was nominated for seven Emmys, winning one for Outstanding Choreography for Scripted Programming. Inkeles was also an executive producer for Alison Ellwood’s Critics Choice-winning documentary “The Go-Go’s,” which centered around the American rock band of the same name, as well as the 2019 film, “Billie,” James Erskine’s documentary about Billie Holiday.
Inkeles is based in Los Angeles and will report to David Blackman, the executive vice president and head of film and television development and production for Umg.
Also Read:
‘Louis Armstrong...
Prior to his promotion, Inkeles was the vice president of scripted film and television for Umg. In that role he served as executive producer of NBC’s musical comedy “Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist.” During the series’ two-season run, it was nominated for seven Emmys, winning one for Outstanding Choreography for Scripted Programming. Inkeles was also an executive producer for Alison Ellwood’s Critics Choice-winning documentary “The Go-Go’s,” which centered around the American rock band of the same name, as well as the 2019 film, “Billie,” James Erskine’s documentary about Billie Holiday.
Inkeles is based in Los Angeles and will report to David Blackman, the executive vice president and head of film and television development and production for Umg.
Also Read:
‘Louis Armstrong...
- 6/1/2023
- by Kayla Cobb
- The Wrap
Love to Love You, Donna Summer is not just a documentary, it’s a hymn to the life and times of the indisputable queen of disco. The film conveys Donna Summer’s journey from the gospel churches of Boston to the dance floors that defined an era. Directed by first-time helmer and Summer’s daughter Brooklyn Sudano and Roger Ross Williams, Love to Love You weaves together interviews, footage and the singer’s infectious music to deliver a new perspective on the life of a vocal powerhouse. As part of the Deadline FYC House + HBO Max Event series, we spoke with Sudano, Williams and producer David Blackman on the red carpet at the New York premiere.
“I think it’s important to see somebody’s life in full and to really understand that my mom was much more than just the disco queen title,” said Sudano.
“I think it’s important to see somebody’s life in full and to really understand that my mom was much more than just the disco queen title,” said Sudano.
- 5/30/2023
- by The Deadline Team
- Deadline Film + TV
HBO Original documentary Love To Love You, Donna Summer, directed by Oscar® and Emmy®-winning filmmaker Roger Ross Williams and Brooklyn Sudano, daughter of Donna Summer, debuts Saturday, May 20 (8:00-10:00 p.m. Et/Pt) on HBO and will be available to stream on HBO Max. The documentary had its international premiere at the 73rd Berlin International Film Festival and its domestic premiere at SXSW.
Synopsis: Shaped by Summer’s own reflections, the memories of close family, friends and colleagues, and filled with the sounds of Summer’s songs, Love To Love You, Donna Summer is an in-depth look at the iconic artist as she creates music that takes her from the avant-garde music scene in Germany, to the glitter and bright lights of dance clubs in New York, to worldwide acclaim, her voice becoming the defining soundtrack of an era. A deeply personal portrait of Summer on and off the stage,...
Synopsis: Shaped by Summer’s own reflections, the memories of close family, friends and colleagues, and filled with the sounds of Summer’s songs, Love To Love You, Donna Summer is an in-depth look at the iconic artist as she creates music that takes her from the avant-garde music scene in Germany, to the glitter and bright lights of dance clubs in New York, to worldwide acclaim, her voice becoming the defining soundtrack of an era. A deeply personal portrait of Summer on and off the stage,...
- 4/29/2023
- by TV Shows Martin Cid Magazine
- Martin Cid - TV
Paul McCartney is getting the documentary treatment from Oscar-winning filmmaker Morgan Neville.
Neville helped announce the news Saturday afternoon inside Milk Studios, host of Universal Music Group’s star-studded artist showcase, an annual Grammy weekend event presented by chairman and CEO Lucian Grainge that typically features a packed program of musical performances mixed with some breaking news on Uni film projects. Today’s installment, the first showcase in three years due to the pandemic, was no different with news on McCartney, a feature documentary on Grammy winner Jon Batiste from Oscar- and Emmy-nominated filmmaker Matthew Heineman and a spring release date on HBO for Love to Love You, Donna Summer.
The McCartney project is titled Man on the Run and comes from Mpl Communications (the umbrella company for McCartney’s business interests) and Polygram Entertainment (the film and TV division of Umg). Per official intel, the film will focus on...
Neville helped announce the news Saturday afternoon inside Milk Studios, host of Universal Music Group’s star-studded artist showcase, an annual Grammy weekend event presented by chairman and CEO Lucian Grainge that typically features a packed program of musical performances mixed with some breaking news on Uni film projects. Today’s installment, the first showcase in three years due to the pandemic, was no different with news on McCartney, a feature documentary on Grammy winner Jon Batiste from Oscar- and Emmy-nominated filmmaker Matthew Heineman and a spring release date on HBO for Love to Love You, Donna Summer.
The McCartney project is titled Man on the Run and comes from Mpl Communications (the umbrella company for McCartney’s business interests) and Polygram Entertainment (the film and TV division of Umg). Per official intel, the film will focus on...
- 2/5/2023
- by Chris Gardner
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: Paul McCartney’s incredible creative output in the decade after he left The Beatles will come into focus in Man on the Run (working title), a documentary to be directed by Oscar and Grammy winner Morgan Neville.
Mpl and Polygram Entertainment – the film and television unit of Universal Music Group – announced the project today, a day before the 65th Annual Grammy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles. The feature film will explore “Paul McCartney’s extraordinary life following the breakup of The Beatles and how the love he shared with Linda McCartney influenced a journey that would lead to the formation of Wings and more of the greatest music ever created.”
Paul and Linda McCartney, circa 1970.
Neville, whose directing credits include 20 Feet From Stardom, Won’t You Be My Neighbor, and Roadrunner: An Anthony Bourdain Movie, has been granted access to never-before-seen home videos and photos from the archives...
Mpl and Polygram Entertainment – the film and television unit of Universal Music Group – announced the project today, a day before the 65th Annual Grammy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles. The feature film will explore “Paul McCartney’s extraordinary life following the breakup of The Beatles and how the love he shared with Linda McCartney influenced a journey that would lead to the formation of Wings and more of the greatest music ever created.”
Paul and Linda McCartney, circa 1970.
Neville, whose directing credits include 20 Feet From Stardom, Won’t You Be My Neighbor, and Roadrunner: An Anthony Bourdain Movie, has been granted access to never-before-seen home videos and photos from the archives...
- 2/4/2023
- by Matthew Carey
- Deadline Film + TV
HBO Original documentary Love To Love You, Donna Summer, directed by Oscar® and Emmy®-winning filmmaker Roger Ross Williams and Brooklyn Sudano, daughter of Donna Summer, debuts May 2023 on HBO and will be available to stream on HBO Max.
Synopsis: Shaped by Summer’s own reflections, the memories of close family, friends and colleagues, and filled with the sounds of Summer’s songs, Love To Love You, Donna Summer is an in-depth look at the iconic artist as she creates music that takes her from the avant-garde music scene in Germany, to the glitter and bright lights of dance clubs in New York, to worldwide acclaim, her voice and artistry becoming the defining soundtrack of an era. A deeply personal portrait of Summer on and off the stage, the film features a wealth of photographs and never-before-seen home video footage – often shot by Summer herself – and provides a rich window...
Synopsis: Shaped by Summer’s own reflections, the memories of close family, friends and colleagues, and filled with the sounds of Summer’s songs, Love To Love You, Donna Summer is an in-depth look at the iconic artist as she creates music that takes her from the avant-garde music scene in Germany, to the glitter and bright lights of dance clubs in New York, to worldwide acclaim, her voice and artistry becoming the defining soundtrack of an era. A deeply personal portrait of Summer on and off the stage, the film features a wealth of photographs and never-before-seen home video footage – often shot by Summer herself – and provides a rich window...
- 2/3/2023
- by TV Shows Martin Cid Magazine
- Martin Cid - TV
Louis Armstrong in “Louis Armstrong’s Black & Blues,” coming soon to Apple TV+. “Louis Armstrong’s Black & Blues” offers an intimate and revealing look at the world-changing musician, presented through a lens of archival footage and never-before-heard home recordings and personal conversations. This definitive documentary, directed by Sacha Jenkins, honors Armstrong’s legacy as a founding father of jazz, one of the first internationally known and beloved stars, and a cultural ambassador of the United States. The film shows how Armstrong’s own life spans the shift from the Civil War to the Civil Rights movement, and how he became a lightning rod figure in that turbulent era.
The documentary is directed and produced by Emmy-nominated Sacha Jenkins, and produced by Imagine Documentaries, Sara Bernstein, Justin Wilkes and Julie Anderson along with executive producers Brian Grazer and Ron Howard. The film is produced in association with Universal Music Group’s...
The documentary is directed and produced by Emmy-nominated Sacha Jenkins, and produced by Imagine Documentaries, Sara Bernstein, Justin Wilkes and Julie Anderson along with executive producers Brian Grazer and Ron Howard. The film is produced in association with Universal Music Group’s...
- 10/13/2022
- by Hollywood Outbreak
- HollywoodOutbreak.com
Apple Original Films has released the trailer for “Louis Armstrong’s Black & Blues,” a revealing documentary about the beloved jazz legend.
Offering an intimate, never-before-seen look at the world-changing musician, and presented through a lens of archival footage and previously unheard home recordings and personal conversations, the documentary will premiere in select theaters and stream globally on Apple TV+ on Oct. 28.
Also Read:
Ryan Reynolds and Qui Nguyen Developing Film Based on Disney Theme Park Element ‘Society of Explorers and Adventures’
“Do you think you’ve lost a step by being born Black in a white country?” an interviewer asks Armstrong in the trailer’s opening clip. “No,” the musician responds. “I don’t look at it that way.”
Per the feature’s synopsis, “This definitive documentary, directed by Sacha Jenkins, honors Armstrong’s legacy as a founding father of jazz, one of the first internationally known and beloved stars,...
Offering an intimate, never-before-seen look at the world-changing musician, and presented through a lens of archival footage and previously unheard home recordings and personal conversations, the documentary will premiere in select theaters and stream globally on Apple TV+ on Oct. 28.
Also Read:
Ryan Reynolds and Qui Nguyen Developing Film Based on Disney Theme Park Element ‘Society of Explorers and Adventures’
“Do you think you’ve lost a step by being born Black in a white country?” an interviewer asks Armstrong in the trailer’s opening clip. “No,” the musician responds. “I don’t look at it that way.”
Per the feature’s synopsis, “This definitive documentary, directed by Sacha Jenkins, honors Armstrong’s legacy as a founding father of jazz, one of the first internationally known and beloved stars,...
- 10/13/2022
- by Umberto Gonzalez
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Stax Records, the label responsible for hits such as Otis Redding’s “(Sittin’ on) The Dock of the Bay” and Sam & Dave’s “Soul Man,” is getting the docuseries treatment.
HBO is behind a new multi-part series telling the story of the fabled Memphis-based label.
Jamila Wignot — who directed Ailey, a portrait of the legendary choreographer Alvin Ailey, and has worked on HBO’s Axios — is directing, with Oj: Made in America helmer Ezra Edelman and producer Caroline Waterlow exec producing. Nigel Sinclair and Nicholas Ferrall of White Horse Pictures, the company behind Martin Scorsese’s doc No Direction Home: Bob Dylan, also are EPs.
The series will explore the rise and fall of the label, which was founded in 1957 by Jim Stewart. Stewart, a country music fan, and his sister Estelle Axton, who mortgaged her house to afford recording equipment, released “Fool in Love” by the Veltones under its original name Satellite Records.
HBO is behind a new multi-part series telling the story of the fabled Memphis-based label.
Jamila Wignot — who directed Ailey, a portrait of the legendary choreographer Alvin Ailey, and has worked on HBO’s Axios — is directing, with Oj: Made in America helmer Ezra Edelman and producer Caroline Waterlow exec producing. Nigel Sinclair and Nicholas Ferrall of White Horse Pictures, the company behind Martin Scorsese’s doc No Direction Home: Bob Dylan, also are EPs.
The series will explore the rise and fall of the label, which was founded in 1957 by Jim Stewart. Stewart, a country music fan, and his sister Estelle Axton, who mortgaged her house to afford recording equipment, released “Fool in Love” by the Veltones under its original name Satellite Records.
- 5/3/2022
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Mick Jagger and Questlove are exec producing a four-part docuseries about “I Got You (I Feel Good)” star James Brown for A&e.
The cable network has ordered James Brown: Say It Loud (w/t), directed by The Legacy of Black Wall Street helmer Deborah Riley Draper.
It is the latest doc on the Godfather of Soul after Alex Gibney directed Mr. Dynamite: The Rise of James Brown for HBO in 2014. Jagger was a producer on that project.
James Brown: Say It Loud is set for a 2023 release, marking what would have been Brown’s 90th birthday. It will explore Brown’s legacy with interviews with friends, family, collaborators and proteges as well as his beloved music catalog and includes never-been-seen-before archival footage.
It will trace his life from a seventh-grade dropout arrested for armed robbery in the Jim Crow-era South to an entertainment legend.
It is produced by Inaudible Films,...
The cable network has ordered James Brown: Say It Loud (w/t), directed by The Legacy of Black Wall Street helmer Deborah Riley Draper.
It is the latest doc on the Godfather of Soul after Alex Gibney directed Mr. Dynamite: The Rise of James Brown for HBO in 2014. Jagger was a producer on that project.
James Brown: Say It Loud is set for a 2023 release, marking what would have been Brown’s 90th birthday. It will explore Brown’s legacy with interviews with friends, family, collaborators and proteges as well as his beloved music catalog and includes never-been-seen-before archival footage.
It will trace his life from a seventh-grade dropout arrested for armed robbery in the Jim Crow-era South to an entertainment legend.
It is produced by Inaudible Films,...
- 2/25/2022
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Mick Fleetwood is set to executive produce a drama series currently in development at Fox.
Titled “13 Songs,” the show follows rock Legend Jasper Jones and his band, The Grift, who once made music that spoke to a generation of Americans, but not anymore. Decades later, after being diagnosed with terminal cancer, Jasper is given only a few months to live. As a final love letter to his fans, he reconnects with his band to write and record 13 final songs and leave his mark on the world forever.
Will Reiser and Jonathan Prince will serve as writers and executive producers on “13 Songs.” Jonathan Levine will direct and executive produce. Along with Fleetwood, Willie Mercer and Ron West of Thruline Entertainment, Gillian Bohrer of Megamix, and David Blackman of Polygram Entertainment will also executive produce. Lionsgate and Fox Entertainment will produce.
Development on the series...
Titled “13 Songs,” the show follows rock Legend Jasper Jones and his band, The Grift, who once made music that spoke to a generation of Americans, but not anymore. Decades later, after being diagnosed with terminal cancer, Jasper is given only a few months to live. As a final love letter to his fans, he reconnects with his band to write and record 13 final songs and leave his mark on the world forever.
Will Reiser and Jonathan Prince will serve as writers and executive producers on “13 Songs.” Jonathan Levine will direct and executive produce. Along with Fleetwood, Willie Mercer and Ron West of Thruline Entertainment, Gillian Bohrer of Megamix, and David Blackman of Polygram Entertainment will also executive produce. Lionsgate and Fox Entertainment will produce.
Development on the series...
- 1/18/2022
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Fox is going its own way with Mick Fleetwood.
The network is looking to the Fleetwood Mac co-founder to drum up its next drama series after putting 13 Songs into development from the musician, whose band was responsible for mega-records like Rumours.
The scripted project is written by Will Reiser, who wrote the Joseph Gordon-Levitt-fronted comedy feature 50/50, and Jonathan Prince, the American Soul creator who also exec produced Hulu’s adaptation of Four Weddings and a Funeral.
It will be directed by Jonathan Levine, who directed all eight episodes of Hulu’s Nine Perfect Strangers.
Fleetwood will lend his creative and musical voice to 13 Songs, which follows rock legend Jasper Jones and his band, The Grift, who once made music that spoke to a generation of Americans, but not anymore. Decades later, after being diagnosed with terminal cancer, Jasper is given only a few months to live. As a...
The network is looking to the Fleetwood Mac co-founder to drum up its next drama series after putting 13 Songs into development from the musician, whose band was responsible for mega-records like Rumours.
The scripted project is written by Will Reiser, who wrote the Joseph Gordon-Levitt-fronted comedy feature 50/50, and Jonathan Prince, the American Soul creator who also exec produced Hulu’s adaptation of Four Weddings and a Funeral.
It will be directed by Jonathan Levine, who directed all eight episodes of Hulu’s Nine Perfect Strangers.
Fleetwood will lend his creative and musical voice to 13 Songs, which follows rock legend Jasper Jones and his band, The Grift, who once made music that spoke to a generation of Americans, but not anymore. Decades later, after being diagnosed with terminal cancer, Jasper is given only a few months to live. As a...
- 1/18/2022
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Polygram Entertainment, the film and television arm of Universal Music Group, is embarking on a feature documentary about iconic singer Donna Summer, with some of the biggest names in nonfiction attached to the project.
Oscar-winning filmmaker Roger Ross Williams will direct Donna, alongside Summer’s daughter, Brooklyn Sudano. Williams is producing with Oscar nominee Julie Goldman, Emmy winners Carolyn Hepburn and Christopher Clements, and Polygram chief David Blackman.
Donna marks the latest in an ambitious slate of films and series from Polygram Entertainment, leveraging the artists and catalogues of Umg. Polygram’s recent documentaries include Oscar contender The Velvet Underground, Emmy-winner The Bee Gees: How Can You Mend a Broken Heart, and The Apollo, the winner of the 2020 Emmy for Outstanding Documentary Special that was directed by Williams and on which Goldman served as an executive producer.
“We had been involved in The Apollo documentary with Roger,...
Oscar-winning filmmaker Roger Ross Williams will direct Donna, alongside Summer’s daughter, Brooklyn Sudano. Williams is producing with Oscar nominee Julie Goldman, Emmy winners Carolyn Hepburn and Christopher Clements, and Polygram chief David Blackman.
Donna marks the latest in an ambitious slate of films and series from Polygram Entertainment, leveraging the artists and catalogues of Umg. Polygram’s recent documentaries include Oscar contender The Velvet Underground, Emmy-winner The Bee Gees: How Can You Mend a Broken Heart, and The Apollo, the winner of the 2020 Emmy for Outstanding Documentary Special that was directed by Williams and on which Goldman served as an executive producer.
“We had been involved in The Apollo documentary with Roger,...
- 12/16/2021
- by Matthew Carey
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: In a competitive situation, Netflix has nabbed a high-profile drama about music and screen icon Frank Sinatra. The streamer has closed a series development deal for the project, which hails from Oscar winner Bill Condon, Lionsgate Television, Universal Music Group’s Polygram Entertainment and Frank Sinatra Enterprises. The series, which will feature Frank Sinatra’s music and performances, is executive produced by his daughter, Tina Sinatra.
Condon is set to write and direct the pilot and serve as showrunner on the project, described as the definitive bio-series on the iconic singer, actor, producer and quintessential celebrity of 20th Century America. Condon is executive producing alongside his producing partner Greg Yolen. Tina Sinatra and Bob Finkelstein are executive producing via Frank Sinatra Enterprises; Michele Anthony, Bruce Resnikoff and David Blackman via Polygram, Umg’s film and television production and development division; with Jack Morrissey also an EP.
Condon is set to write and direct the pilot and serve as showrunner on the project, described as the definitive bio-series on the iconic singer, actor, producer and quintessential celebrity of 20th Century America. Condon is executive producing alongside his producing partner Greg Yolen. Tina Sinatra and Bob Finkelstein are executive producing via Frank Sinatra Enterprises; Michele Anthony, Bruce Resnikoff and David Blackman via Polygram, Umg’s film and television production and development division; with Jack Morrissey also an EP.
- 12/16/2021
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: One of the top entertainers of the 20th century, Grammy-winning singer and Oscar-winning actor Frank Sinatra, is the subject of a high-profile drama series, written, directed and executive produced by Oscar winner Bill Condon, I have learned. The series, which will have access to Sinatra’s music catalogue, is executive produced by Sinatra’s daughter, Tina Sinatra, and comes from Lionsgate Television and Universal Music Group. It has been taken to the premium marketplace, garnering strong interest and multiple bids.
I hear that Condon is set to write and direct the pilot and serve as showrunner on the series, which he is executive producing alongside his producing partner Greg Yolen. Also executive producing are Tina Sinatra and Bob Finkelstein via Frank Sinatra Enterprises; Michele Anthony, Bruce Resnikoff and David Blackman via Polygram; and Jack Morrissey.
The project, described as the definitive bio-series on the iconic singer, actor, producer and...
I hear that Condon is set to write and direct the pilot and serve as showrunner on the series, which he is executive producing alongside his producing partner Greg Yolen. Also executive producing are Tina Sinatra and Bob Finkelstein via Frank Sinatra Enterprises; Michele Anthony, Bruce Resnikoff and David Blackman via Polygram; and Jack Morrissey.
The project, described as the definitive bio-series on the iconic singer, actor, producer and...
- 12/10/2021
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Just a day after Halloween and Zoey and Mo of Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist are ringing in the holidays over at their new home – Roku.
On Monday the Roku Channel unveiled a glimpse at Zoey’s Extraordinary Christmas, a holiday-themed film based on the Emmy-nominated musical series. On her first holiday without her father, Zoey (Jane Levy) attempts to create a magical Christmas for her family just like the ones Mitch used to do. The film is also set to pick up where Season 2 left off.
In the first look, Zoey and Mo (Alex Newell) hit the mall to get goodies for their loved ones. Of course, Mo bursts into an elaborate rendition of the Christmas classic “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” that displays her true love for the holiday season.
Set to debut on the Roku Channel on Dec. 1, Zoey’s Extraordinary Christmas will see...
On Monday the Roku Channel unveiled a glimpse at Zoey’s Extraordinary Christmas, a holiday-themed film based on the Emmy-nominated musical series. On her first holiday without her father, Zoey (Jane Levy) attempts to create a magical Christmas for her family just like the ones Mitch used to do. The film is also set to pick up where Season 2 left off.
In the first look, Zoey and Mo (Alex Newell) hit the mall to get goodies for their loved ones. Of course, Mo bursts into an elaborate rendition of the Christmas classic “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” that displays her true love for the holiday season.
Set to debut on the Roku Channel on Dec. 1, Zoey’s Extraordinary Christmas will see...
- 11/1/2021
- by Alexandra Del Rosario
- Deadline Film + TV
Lifetime announced a two-picture deal with Sarah Drew, who will star, write and executive produce “Reindeer Games” and star in “Stolen Hearts: The Lizbeth Meredith Story” for the channel’s “It’s A Wonderful Lifetime” holiday film slate.
“I’ve absolutely loved working with Lifetime over the past few years and couldn’t be more thrilled to continue my relationship with them as an actor and now as a writer and producer as well. I’m delighted to announce my screenwriting debut with ‘Reindeer Games,’ a romantic comedy about love, loss, and the importance of true community. I’m looking forward to working with Lifetime to bring more stories like this to life,” Drew said.
“Reindeer Games” is currently in development and follows a fading Hollywood star who returns to his small hometown following his breakup. He’s begrudgingly roped into the town’s titular holiday fundraising tradition, but when he...
“I’ve absolutely loved working with Lifetime over the past few years and couldn’t be more thrilled to continue my relationship with them as an actor and now as a writer and producer as well. I’m delighted to announce my screenwriting debut with ‘Reindeer Games,’ a romantic comedy about love, loss, and the importance of true community. I’m looking forward to working with Lifetime to bring more stories like this to life,” Drew said.
“Reindeer Games” is currently in development and follows a fading Hollywood star who returns to his small hometown following his breakup. He’s begrudgingly roped into the town’s titular holiday fundraising tradition, but when he...
- 11/1/2021
- by Jennifer Yuma
- Variety Film + TV
The lives and epic love story of rocker Ozzy Osbourne and manager and personality Sharon Osbourne will be the subject of an upcoming feature film.
The untitled project comes from Polygram Entertainment, and will follow a biopic format centering on their decades-long bond — one that exploded to the heights of pop culture with the flagship MTV reality series “The Osbournes.” Oscar nominee Lee Hall (“Billy Elliot”) is scripting the project.
“Our relationship at times was often wild, insane and dangerous but it was our undying love that kept us together,” said Sharon Osbourne. “We’re thrilled to partner with Sony Pictures and Polygram to bring our story to the screen.”
Sharon and her kids Jack Osborune and Aimée Osbourne are producing via their label Osbourne Media, with Michele Anthony and David Blackman on behalf of Polygram Entertainment. Andrea Giannetti is overseeing development for Sony.
Music will obviously play a large role in the film,...
The untitled project comes from Polygram Entertainment, and will follow a biopic format centering on their decades-long bond — one that exploded to the heights of pop culture with the flagship MTV reality series “The Osbournes.” Oscar nominee Lee Hall (“Billy Elliot”) is scripting the project.
“Our relationship at times was often wild, insane and dangerous but it was our undying love that kept us together,” said Sharon Osbourne. “We’re thrilled to partner with Sony Pictures and Polygram to bring our story to the screen.”
Sharon and her kids Jack Osborune and Aimée Osbourne are producing via their label Osbourne Media, with Michele Anthony and David Blackman on behalf of Polygram Entertainment. Andrea Giannetti is overseeing development for Sony.
Music will obviously play a large role in the film,...
- 10/21/2021
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Todd Haynes on ‘Velvet Underground,’ NY’s Avant-Garde Scene and the Challenges of Making a Music Doc
Despite having never made a documentary, Todd Haynes didn’t hesitate when Universal Music Group’s David Blackman approached him in 2018 to make a nonfiction feature about the enormously influential rock band the Velvet Underground, which was initially mentored by Andy Warhol and launched the careers of Lou Reed, John Cale and Nico.
The Oscar-nominated director — known for narrative features including “Far From Heaven” “Carol,” “Dark Waters” and the Bob Dylan meditation “I’m Not There” — wasn’t worried about taking on a nonfiction project because “ultimately all films are narrative experiences and are dramatic experiences. Documentaries need to work in many of the same ways that fictional films need to work in order to reach audiences.”
Haynes spent the better part of three years researching, interviewing subjects and sifting through 600 hours of archival footage with editor Adam Kurnitz. The result is “The Velvet Underground,” which made its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival.
The Oscar-nominated director — known for narrative features including “Far From Heaven” “Carol,” “Dark Waters” and the Bob Dylan meditation “I’m Not There” — wasn’t worried about taking on a nonfiction project because “ultimately all films are narrative experiences and are dramatic experiences. Documentaries need to work in many of the same ways that fictional films need to work in order to reach audiences.”
Haynes spent the better part of three years researching, interviewing subjects and sifting through 600 hours of archival footage with editor Adam Kurnitz. The result is “The Velvet Underground,” which made its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival.
- 10/8/2021
- by Addie Morfoot
- Variety Film + TV
Epix is digging into the story behind iconic A&m Records. The premium cable network has set a December premiere date for Mr. A & Mr. M: The Story of A&m Records, a music docuseries from Laurel Canyon producers Frank Marshall and Ryan Suffern, Kennedy/Marshall Company, Polygram Entertainment, Interscope Films and Universal Music Publishing Group. The two-part docuseries will premiere at 10 p.m. December 5 and conclude December 12.
Fall Premiere Dates For New & Returning TV Series On Broadcast, Cable & Streaming
Herb Alpert and Jerry Moss started A&m Records out of a garage in 1962 and built into one of the most successful independent record labels in history. Produced by Marshall and directed by Suffern, the docuseries takes an in-depth look at the company’s distinct approach of focusing on its artists, discovering unique talent and evolving with the ever-changing music industry. With rare archival footage and audio-only interviews, Mr. A & Mr.
Fall Premiere Dates For New & Returning TV Series On Broadcast, Cable & Streaming
Herb Alpert and Jerry Moss started A&m Records out of a garage in 1962 and built into one of the most successful independent record labels in history. Produced by Marshall and directed by Suffern, the docuseries takes an in-depth look at the company’s distinct approach of focusing on its artists, discovering unique talent and evolving with the ever-changing music industry. With rare archival footage and audio-only interviews, Mr. A & Mr.
- 9/29/2021
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist, which was canceled as a series last spring by NBC, will sing on as a Christmas-themed feature film streaming on the Roku Channel this holiday season.
Production of Zoey’s Extraordinary Christmas will start this month in Vancouver, with Lionsgate remaining onboard as the studio. Cast members Jane Levy, Skylar Astin, Alex Newell, John Clarence Stewart, Andrew Leeds, Alice Lee, Michael Thomas Grant, Kapil Talwalkar, David St. Louis, Mary Steenburgen, Peter Gallagher and Bernadette Peters are all returning. Story-wise, the film picks up where Season 2 left off, according to the official announcement.
The film will stream for free on the ad-supported Roku Channel in the U.S. Along with the film, all 25 episodes of the series will stream on the Roku Channel in the U.S. later this fall.
It is the first Roku Originals film and also the first scripted project outside of the pool...
Production of Zoey’s Extraordinary Christmas will start this month in Vancouver, with Lionsgate remaining onboard as the studio. Cast members Jane Levy, Skylar Astin, Alex Newell, John Clarence Stewart, Andrew Leeds, Alice Lee, Michael Thomas Grant, Kapil Talwalkar, David St. Louis, Mary Steenburgen, Peter Gallagher and Bernadette Peters are all returning. Story-wise, the film picks up where Season 2 left off, according to the official announcement.
The film will stream for free on the ad-supported Roku Channel in the U.S. Along with the film, all 25 episodes of the series will stream on the Roku Channel in the U.S. later this fall.
It is the first Roku Originals film and also the first scripted project outside of the pool...
- 9/8/2021
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
“Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist,” after getting axed by NBC, may be getting a second life at Roku.
Roku, which has been bulking up its original programming slate, is in discussions with Lionsgate Television, the producer of the musical dramedy, for a movie special bringing back the original cast including star Jane Levy, Variety confirmed.
Roku and Lionsgate reps declined to comment.
Sources cautioned that while Roku and Lionsgate are in talks, there’s no deal signed. The project under discussion would be a two-hour movie special that would hit the Roku Channel around the 2021 holidays. While other reports have said Roku would have the option to pick up “Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist” for a new season, a source familiar with the talks said that’s not on the table and that the movie deal would be a one-off.
“Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist” was canceled after two seasons at NBC this spring.
Roku, which has been bulking up its original programming slate, is in discussions with Lionsgate Television, the producer of the musical dramedy, for a movie special bringing back the original cast including star Jane Levy, Variety confirmed.
Roku and Lionsgate reps declined to comment.
Sources cautioned that while Roku and Lionsgate are in talks, there’s no deal signed. The project under discussion would be a two-hour movie special that would hit the Roku Channel around the 2021 holidays. While other reports have said Roku would have the option to pick up “Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist” for a new season, a source familiar with the talks said that’s not on the table and that the movie deal would be a one-off.
“Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist” was canceled after two seasons at NBC this spring.
- 8/5/2021
- by Todd Spangler
- Variety Film + TV
“Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist” is nearing a comeback, though it may be a brief one.
The musical comedy, which was canceled earlier this year by NBC after two seasons, is closing in on a deal with Roku for a two-hour movie that would wrap up the show, an individual with knowledge of the talks told TheWrap. The project is being eyed for the holidays.
According to TV Line, which broke the news, if the movie performs well, a potential third season could be in the cards. It is not yet a done deal but is in advanced negotiations. The entire main cast is expected to return, though not all deals are done.
Reps for Roku and Lionsgate, which produces the show with Universal Television, declined to comment. Peacock decided against ordering a third season after it was canceled in May.
“Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist” stars Jane Levy as a software developer...
The musical comedy, which was canceled earlier this year by NBC after two seasons, is closing in on a deal with Roku for a two-hour movie that would wrap up the show, an individual with knowledge of the talks told TheWrap. The project is being eyed for the holidays.
According to TV Line, which broke the news, if the movie performs well, a potential third season could be in the cards. It is not yet a done deal but is in advanced negotiations. The entire main cast is expected to return, though not all deals are done.
Reps for Roku and Lionsgate, which produces the show with Universal Television, declined to comment. Peacock decided against ordering a third season after it was canceled in May.
“Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist” stars Jane Levy as a software developer...
- 8/5/2021
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
So far 2021 is turning out to be quite the year for documentaries unearthing long-buried or unknown musical treasures of the ’60s. The current Summer of Soul highlights a series of Harlem-based concerts with iconic Black artists, a kind of African American Woodstock stuck in someone’s basement for half a century and now getting a much-acclaimed film directed by Questlove made from those tapes. Edgar Wright’s fascinating The Sparks Brothers, the story of the quirky band Sparks featuring brothers Russell and Ron Mael, gives this cult musical act a long-deserved place in the sun. And now, just premiered out of competition today at the Cannes Film Festival, comes director Todd Haynes’ feature documentary debut on the avant garde rock/punk band The Velvet Underground in a movie of the same name that shows why this ’60s creation from the world of Andy Warhol has made such an impact decades...
- 7/7/2021
- by Pete Hammond
- Deadline Film + TV
The options on the cast of Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist, headlined by Jane Levy, expired earlier this week, and they have not been extended, I have learned.
Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist lead studio Lionsgate Television has been looking to find a new home for the show since NBC canceled the series three weeks ago after two seasons and a potential move to NBCUniversal streamer Peacock did not materialize.
I hear conversations are still ongoing, with various options to continue the story of Zoey Clarke explored — series, miniseries or a movie. While none is believed to be close to reality, if any progresses, Lionsgate would need to make new deals with some or all of the Season 2 regular cast, which included Levy, Skylar Astin, Alex Newell, John Clarence Stewart, Andrew Leeds, Alice Lee, Michael Thomas Grant, Kapil Talwalkar and Mary Steenburgen.
Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist lead studio Lionsgate Television has been looking to find a new home for the show since NBC canceled the series three weeks ago after two seasons and a potential move to NBCUniversal streamer Peacock did not materialize.
I hear conversations are still ongoing, with various options to continue the story of Zoey Clarke explored — series, miniseries or a movie. While none is believed to be close to reality, if any progresses, Lionsgate would need to make new deals with some or all of the Season 2 regular cast, which included Levy, Skylar Astin, Alex Newell, John Clarence Stewart, Andrew Leeds, Alice Lee, Michael Thomas Grant, Kapil Talwalkar and Mary Steenburgen.
- 7/2/2021
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
NBC has canceled “Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist” after two seasons, the network said Wednesday.
The show, a co-production between Lionsgate Television and Universal Television, will be shopped to other outlets. However, according to an individual familiar with the situation, NBC’s sister streaming service Peacock has already passed on a third season.
The news comes after the Austin Winsberg-created musical dramedy wrapped its second season back in May.
“In a world where finding loyal and passionate audiences is never easy, we believe there must be a home for this great, award-winning show with a passionate and dedicated following,” a Lionsgate spokesperson said in a statement on Wednesday.
“Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist” stars Jane Levy as a software developer who discovers she has the ability to hear other people’s innermost thoughts via musical numbers. Skylar Astin, Alex Newell, John Clarence Stewart, Andrew Leeds, Alice Lee, Michael Thomas Grant, Kapil Talwalkar and Mary Steenburgen also star.
The show, a co-production between Lionsgate Television and Universal Television, will be shopped to other outlets. However, according to an individual familiar with the situation, NBC’s sister streaming service Peacock has already passed on a third season.
The news comes after the Austin Winsberg-created musical dramedy wrapped its second season back in May.
“In a world where finding loyal and passionate audiences is never easy, we believe there must be a home for this great, award-winning show with a passionate and dedicated following,” a Lionsgate spokesperson said in a statement on Wednesday.
“Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist” stars Jane Levy as a software developer who discovers she has the ability to hear other people’s innermost thoughts via musical numbers. Skylar Astin, Alex Newell, John Clarence Stewart, Andrew Leeds, Alice Lee, Michael Thomas Grant, Kapil Talwalkar and Mary Steenburgen also star.
- 6/9/2021
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
“Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist” has been canceled after two seasons at NBC, Variety has learned.
According to sources, there had been talks about moving the musical dramedy series to streaming service Peacock for a third season, but that move ultimately did not come together. According to a spokesperson for Lionsgate Television, which co-produces the series, there are plans to shop it to other outlets.
“In a world where finding loyal and passionate audiences is never easy, we believe there must be a home for this great, award-winning show with a passionate and dedicated following,” the spokesperson said.
The series starred Jane Levy as Zoey Clarke, a computer coder living in San Francisco. After an unusual event, Zoey, suddenly starts to hear the innermost wants, thoughts and desires of the people around her through popular songs.
Along with Levy, the series also starred Alex Newell, Skylar Astin, John Clarence Stewart, Mary Steenburgen,...
According to sources, there had been talks about moving the musical dramedy series to streaming service Peacock for a third season, but that move ultimately did not come together. According to a spokesperson for Lionsgate Television, which co-produces the series, there are plans to shop it to other outlets.
“In a world where finding loyal and passionate audiences is never easy, we believe there must be a home for this great, award-winning show with a passionate and dedicated following,” the spokesperson said.
The series starred Jane Levy as Zoey Clarke, a computer coder living in San Francisco. After an unusual event, Zoey, suddenly starts to hear the innermost wants, thoughts and desires of the people around her through popular songs.
Along with Levy, the series also starred Alex Newell, Skylar Astin, John Clarence Stewart, Mary Steenburgen,...
- 6/9/2021
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
The cast of Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist might have performed their last number. NBC has opted not to give a third-season renewal to the musical dramedy with a passionate following, which topped USA Today’s annual Save Our Shows poll for a second consecutive year.
The decision comes three and a half weeks after the series, headlined by Jane Levy, aired its Season 2 finale. As Deadline reported last month, Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist, a middling linear Live+Same Day ratings performer with an outsized digital footprint, had been in consideration for a pickup by NBC sibling streamer Peacock. I hear that Peacock, the streaming home of Zoey’s first two seasons, ultimately opted not to proceed with a third season.
In addition to being a digital phenom, Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist also has gotten awards recognition. Lionsgate Television, which co-produces the series with Universal Television, will be mounting an aggressive...
The decision comes three and a half weeks after the series, headlined by Jane Levy, aired its Season 2 finale. As Deadline reported last month, Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist, a middling linear Live+Same Day ratings performer with an outsized digital footprint, had been in consideration for a pickup by NBC sibling streamer Peacock. I hear that Peacock, the streaming home of Zoey’s first two seasons, ultimately opted not to proceed with a third season.
In addition to being a digital phenom, Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist also has gotten awards recognition. Lionsgate Television, which co-produces the series with Universal Television, will be mounting an aggressive...
- 6/9/2021
- by Nellie Andreeva and Alexandra Del Rosario
- Deadline Film + TV
All the heart songs and dance numbers of Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist will come to E! for a two-day marathon.
From Sunday to Monday, May 30-31, E! will broadcast all 25 episodes of the musical dramedy back-to-back, beginning with the pilot on 9 a.m. Sunday.
The series, which stars Jane Levy, Skylar Astin, Alex Newell, John Clarence Stewart, Andrew Leeds, Alice Lee and Mary Steenburgen, wrapped up its second season this month with a surprise twist. Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist, created and written by showrunner Austin Winsberg, has yet to be canceled or renewed for a third season at NBC as the series is one of four shows with undetermined fates at the network.
During the NBC upfront press call last week, Susan Rovner said that decisions have yet to be made on the four bubble shows.
“We are not going to make our decisions yet on those shows,” she told Deadline.
From Sunday to Monday, May 30-31, E! will broadcast all 25 episodes of the musical dramedy back-to-back, beginning with the pilot on 9 a.m. Sunday.
The series, which stars Jane Levy, Skylar Astin, Alex Newell, John Clarence Stewart, Andrew Leeds, Alice Lee and Mary Steenburgen, wrapped up its second season this month with a surprise twist. Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist, created and written by showrunner Austin Winsberg, has yet to be canceled or renewed for a third season at NBC as the series is one of four shows with undetermined fates at the network.
During the NBC upfront press call last week, Susan Rovner said that decisions have yet to be made on the four bubble shows.
“We are not going to make our decisions yet on those shows,” she told Deadline.
- 5/27/2021
- by Alexandra Del Rosario
- Deadline Film + TV
Norwegian filmmaker Joachim Rønning to direct based on story of ’70s glam rock band
A music biopic called “Shout It Out Loud” about legendary rock band Kiss is in the works, and Netflix is nearing a deal to acquire the film package, an individual with knowledge of the project told TheWrap.
Joachim Rønning, the Norwegian director behind “Kon-Tiki,” “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales” and “Maleficent: Mistress of Evil,” will direct the film. Kiss’ Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley will collaborate on the project, which spans the band’s story on stage and off. Ole Sanders wrote the latest draft of the script, with a previous draft coming from W. Blake Harron.
Netflix had no comment. A rep for the band said there are ongoing conversations with Netflix but no agreement has been signed.
Also Read:
Pete Davidson to Star in Rock Biopic ‘I Slept With Joey Ramone...
A music biopic called “Shout It Out Loud” about legendary rock band Kiss is in the works, and Netflix is nearing a deal to acquire the film package, an individual with knowledge of the project told TheWrap.
Joachim Rønning, the Norwegian director behind “Kon-Tiki,” “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales” and “Maleficent: Mistress of Evil,” will direct the film. Kiss’ Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley will collaborate on the project, which spans the band’s story on stage and off. Ole Sanders wrote the latest draft of the script, with a previous draft coming from W. Blake Harron.
Netflix had no comment. A rep for the band said there are ongoing conversations with Netflix but no agreement has been signed.
Also Read:
Pete Davidson to Star in Rock Biopic ‘I Slept With Joey Ramone...
- 4/21/2021
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Netflix is near a deal for Shout It Out Loud, a film package that aspires to do for the iconic hard rock band Kiss what Bohemian Rhapsody did for Queen.
According to sources, Netflix is tying up a deal after a bidding battle for a film that will be directed by Joachim Rønning, the Norwegian filmmaker whose credits include Kon-Tiki, Maleficent: Mistress of Evil and Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales. The script is written by Ole Sanders. An earlier draft was done by William Blake Herron. The pic will be a co-production of Mark Canton’s Atmosphere Entertainment and Universal Music Group.
Shout It Out Loud will have close cooperation from bandleaders Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley. The band’s concert-arena anthems will be a big part of this, but the film will focus on that duo going back to when they were two...
According to sources, Netflix is tying up a deal after a bidding battle for a film that will be directed by Joachim Rønning, the Norwegian filmmaker whose credits include Kon-Tiki, Maleficent: Mistress of Evil and Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales. The script is written by Ole Sanders. An earlier draft was done by William Blake Herron. The pic will be a co-production of Mark Canton’s Atmosphere Entertainment and Universal Music Group.
Shout It Out Loud will have close cooperation from bandleaders Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley. The band’s concert-arena anthems will be a big part of this, but the film will focus on that duo going back to when they were two...
- 4/21/2021
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Apple Original Films has greenlit the Louis Armstrong documentary “Black & Blues: The Colorful Ballad of Louis Armstrong.”
The documentary will examine Armstrong’s life and legacy as a founding father of jazz, the first pop star and a cultural ambassador of the United States. Additionally, Jenkins’ film aims to unscramble the misconception that the New Orleans trumpeter didn’t do enough to support the Civil Rights Movement.
Produced under Apple’s first-look agreement with Brian Grazer and Ron Howard’s Imagine Documentaries, the film will be directed by Sacha Jenkins.
With the full support of the Louis Armstrong Educational Foundation, the filmmakers were granted access to a wide array of never-before-seen archival materials including hundreds of hours of audio recordings, film footage, photographs and personal diaries.
“Black & Blues: The Colorful Ballad of Louis Armstrong” will join Apple TV Plus’ expanding library of award-winning documentaries and docuseries, including “Bruce Springsteen’s Letter to You,...
The documentary will examine Armstrong’s life and legacy as a founding father of jazz, the first pop star and a cultural ambassador of the United States. Additionally, Jenkins’ film aims to unscramble the misconception that the New Orleans trumpeter didn’t do enough to support the Civil Rights Movement.
Produced under Apple’s first-look agreement with Brian Grazer and Ron Howard’s Imagine Documentaries, the film will be directed by Sacha Jenkins.
With the full support of the Louis Armstrong Educational Foundation, the filmmakers were granted access to a wide array of never-before-seen archival materials including hundreds of hours of audio recordings, film footage, photographs and personal diaries.
“Black & Blues: The Colorful Ballad of Louis Armstrong” will join Apple TV Plus’ expanding library of award-winning documentaries and docuseries, including “Bruce Springsteen’s Letter to You,...
- 4/13/2021
- by Antonio Ferme
- Variety Film + TV
Apple Original Films has greenlit a documentary feature about the life of jazz great Louis Armstrong titled “Black & Blues” that Ron Howard and Brian Grazer’s Imagine Documentaries will produce.
“Black & Blues: The Colorful Ballad of Louis Armstrong” will be executive produced by Grazer and Howard and directed by Emmy nominee Sacha Jenkins (“Wu-Tang Clan: Of Mics and Men”). The film is being produced under Apple’s first-look agreement with Imagine Documentaries.
“Black & Blues” offers a definitive look at the master musician Louis Armstrong’s life and legacy as a founding father of jazz, the first pop star, and a cultural ambassador of the United States. Though Armstrong was loved by millions worldwide, he was often mischaracterized for not doing enough to support the Civil Rights Movement. But his fight for social justice was fueled by his celebrity and his willingness to break his silence on issues of segregation and patriotism.
“Black & Blues: The Colorful Ballad of Louis Armstrong” will be executive produced by Grazer and Howard and directed by Emmy nominee Sacha Jenkins (“Wu-Tang Clan: Of Mics and Men”). The film is being produced under Apple’s first-look agreement with Imagine Documentaries.
“Black & Blues” offers a definitive look at the master musician Louis Armstrong’s life and legacy as a founding father of jazz, the first pop star, and a cultural ambassador of the United States. Though Armstrong was loved by millions worldwide, he was often mischaracterized for not doing enough to support the Civil Rights Movement. But his fight for social justice was fueled by his celebrity and his willingness to break his silence on issues of segregation and patriotism.
- 4/13/2021
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Apple Original Films has green lit its Louis Armstrong documentary feature, Black & Blues: The Colorful Ballad of Louis Armstrong with Imagine Documentaries producing the documentary. The documentary, which is produced under Apple’s first-look agreement with Imagine Documentaries, will be directed by Emmy-nominated Sacha Jenkins , and produced by Jenkins, Julie Anderson, Sara Bernstein and Justin Wilkes. Imagine Documentaries Brian Grazer and Ron Howard will exec produce. The project is being produced in association with Universal Music Group’s Polygram Entertainment with Michele Anthony and David Blackman serving as executive producers.
The film offers a definitive look at the master musician’s life and legacy as a founding father of jazz, the first pop star, and a cultural ambassador of the United States. He was loved by millions worldwide but often mischaracterized for not doing enough to support the Civil Rights Movement. In reality, his fight for social justice was fueled...
The film offers a definitive look at the master musician’s life and legacy as a founding father of jazz, the first pop star, and a cultural ambassador of the United States. He was loved by millions worldwide but often mischaracterized for not doing enough to support the Civil Rights Movement. In reality, his fight for social justice was fueled...
- 4/13/2021
- by Justin Kroll
- Deadline Film + TV
ABC has given a big put pilot commitment to Family Affair, a single-camera family comedy with musical elements from husband-and-wife writer-producers Devon and Ranada Shepard, Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, Mary J. Blige, Universal Music/Polygram Entertainment and ABC Signature.
Written by Devon and Ranada Shepard, Family Affair centers on A-ron, a faded R&b star and committed bachelor whose life is thrown into a tailspin when he’s saddled with raising his sister’s four kids. A-ron is overwhelmed and underwater until he discovers that musical talent runs in the family. These kids can sing! With their sights set on success, A-ron’s about to learn that managing a music group might be hard, but raising four kids is even harder.
The Shepards executive produce with Jackson via his G Unit Film & Television, Blige and Bruce Miller via her Blue Butterfly, David Blackman and Daniel Inkeles for Universal Music/Polygram Entertainment and Noah Rosenberg.
Written by Devon and Ranada Shepard, Family Affair centers on A-ron, a faded R&b star and committed bachelor whose life is thrown into a tailspin when he’s saddled with raising his sister’s four kids. A-ron is overwhelmed and underwater until he discovers that musical talent runs in the family. These kids can sing! With their sights set on success, A-ron’s about to learn that managing a music group might be hard, but raising four kids is even harder.
The Shepards executive produce with Jackson via his G Unit Film & Television, Blige and Bruce Miller via her Blue Butterfly, David Blackman and Daniel Inkeles for Universal Music/Polygram Entertainment and Noah Rosenberg.
- 11/19/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
ABC has given a put pilot order to a musical comedy series that boasts Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson and Mary J. Blige among its executive producers.
Titled “Family Affair,” the single-camera series follows A-ron, a faded R&b star and committed bachelor whose life is thrown into a tailspin when he’s saddled with raising his sister’s four kids. A-ron is overwhelmed and underwater until he discovers that musical talent runs in the family. With their sights set on success, A-ron’s about to learn that managing a music group might be hard, but raising four kids is even harder.
According to sources, ABC picked up the project after a multi-network bidding war. It has a substantial penalty attached in the high six figure range. ABC has plans to open a writers’ room, with the show representing one of ABC’s largest commitments this season.
Devon and Ranada Shepard will...
Titled “Family Affair,” the single-camera series follows A-ron, a faded R&b star and committed bachelor whose life is thrown into a tailspin when he’s saddled with raising his sister’s four kids. A-ron is overwhelmed and underwater until he discovers that musical talent runs in the family. With their sights set on success, A-ron’s about to learn that managing a music group might be hard, but raising four kids is even harder.
According to sources, ABC picked up the project after a multi-network bidding war. It has a substantial penalty attached in the high six figure range. ABC has plans to open a writers’ room, with the show representing one of ABC’s largest commitments this season.
Devon and Ranada Shepard will...
- 11/19/2020
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Mary J. Blige and Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson are teaming up for a comedy series in development at ABC.
The project, titled “Family Affair,” is a single-camera comedy about a faded R&b star and committed bachelor named A-ron, whose life is thrown into a tailspin when he’s saddled with raising his sister’s four kids. A-ron is overwhelmed and underwater until he discovers that musical talent runs in the family.
Devon and Ranada Shepard are writers and executive producers on the project, alongside Jackson via his G-Unit banner. Also executive producing are Blige and Bruce Miller of Blue Butterfly Productions and David Blackman and Daniel Inkeles of Universal Music’s film and TV division, Polygram.
Noah Rosenberg is also an executive producer on the series, which hails from ABC Signature.
Jackson’s prolific G-Unit Film & Television production company is behind the ABC legal drama “For Life,” as...
The project, titled “Family Affair,” is a single-camera comedy about a faded R&b star and committed bachelor named A-ron, whose life is thrown into a tailspin when he’s saddled with raising his sister’s four kids. A-ron is overwhelmed and underwater until he discovers that musical talent runs in the family.
Devon and Ranada Shepard are writers and executive producers on the project, alongside Jackson via his G-Unit banner. Also executive producing are Blige and Bruce Miller of Blue Butterfly Productions and David Blackman and Daniel Inkeles of Universal Music’s film and TV division, Polygram.
Noah Rosenberg is also an executive producer on the series, which hails from ABC Signature.
Jackson’s prolific G-Unit Film & Television production company is behind the ABC legal drama “For Life,” as...
- 11/19/2020
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Jee Young Han and Felix Mallard are set for recurring roles on the upcoming second season of NBC’s musical dramedy Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist, starring Jane Levy.
Created and executive produced by Jake in Progress creator Austin Winsberg, who serves as showrunner, Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist stars Jane Levy as Zoey Clarke, a whip-smart computer coder forging her way in San Francisco. After an unusual event, Zoey, who always preferred podcasts over pop songs, suddenly starts to hear the innermost wants, thoughts and desires of the people around her – her family, co-workers and complete strangers – through popular songs. At first, she questions her own sanity, but after getting some guidance from her musically adept neighbor, Mo (Alex Newell), and making a breakthrough with her ailing father (Peter Gallagher), Zoey soon realizes this unwanted curse might just be an incredibly...
Created and executive produced by Jake in Progress creator Austin Winsberg, who serves as showrunner, Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist stars Jane Levy as Zoey Clarke, a whip-smart computer coder forging her way in San Francisco. After an unusual event, Zoey, who always preferred podcasts over pop songs, suddenly starts to hear the innermost wants, thoughts and desires of the people around her – her family, co-workers and complete strangers – through popular songs. At first, she questions her own sanity, but after getting some guidance from her musically adept neighbor, Mo (Alex Newell), and making a breakthrough with her ailing father (Peter Gallagher), Zoey soon realizes this unwanted curse might just be an incredibly...
- 10/29/2020
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Apple has acquired the rights to a new documentary film about the legendary rock band The Velvet Underground from director Todd Haynes, the studio announced Wednesday.
The documentary titled “The Velvet Underground” explores how Lou Reed’s art-rock pioneers inspired countless bands in the 1960s and beyond. The film will drop on Apple TV+ in 2021.
It also features interviews with the people who were there, some never-before-seen performances and recordings, including some Andy Warhol films, and experimental art that gives an immersive look into what founding member John Cale described as the band’s creative ethos: “how to be elegant and how to be brutal.”
The famous line about the Velvet Underground is that although very few people actually saw the band perform live, every one of them went on to start a band, and “The Velvet Underground” shows how the group became a cultural touchstone and a band of...
The documentary titled “The Velvet Underground” explores how Lou Reed’s art-rock pioneers inspired countless bands in the 1960s and beyond. The film will drop on Apple TV+ in 2021.
It also features interviews with the people who were there, some never-before-seen performances and recordings, including some Andy Warhol films, and experimental art that gives an immersive look into what founding member John Cale described as the band’s creative ethos: “how to be elegant and how to be brutal.”
The famous line about the Velvet Underground is that although very few people actually saw the band perform live, every one of them went on to start a band, and “The Velvet Underground” shows how the group became a cultural touchstone and a band of...
- 10/21/2020
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Apple has landed rights to The Velvet Underground, a new feature documentary from director Todd Haynes and Polygram Entertainment.
The Velvet Underground, fronted by Lou Reed, created a new sound that changed the world of music in the mid-1960s, cementing its place as one of rock and roll’s most revered bands. The doc shows just how the group became a cultural touchstone representing a range of contradictions: the band is both of their time, yet timeless; literary yet realistic; rooted in high art and street culture.
Haynes will direct and exec produce the documentary, which will also be produced by Polygram Entertainment in association with Federal Films, a Motto Pictures and Killer Films production. The film is produced by Christine Vachon, Julie Goldman, Christopher Clements, Carolyn Hepburn and David Blackman.
The news was first reported by Deadline’s sister publication Variety.
The Velvet Underground, fronted by Lou Reed, created a new sound that changed the world of music in the mid-1960s, cementing its place as one of rock and roll’s most revered bands. The doc shows just how the group became a cultural touchstone representing a range of contradictions: the band is both of their time, yet timeless; literary yet realistic; rooted in high art and street culture.
Haynes will direct and exec produce the documentary, which will also be produced by Polygram Entertainment in association with Federal Films, a Motto Pictures and Killer Films production. The film is produced by Christine Vachon, Julie Goldman, Christopher Clements, Carolyn Hepburn and David Blackman.
The news was first reported by Deadline’s sister publication Variety.
- 10/21/2020
- by Justin Kroll
- Deadline Film + TV
Apple TV Plus has scored worldwide distribution rights to “The Velvet Underground,” a new documentary from Oscar-nominated director Todd Haynes.
Haynes tackles the hugely influential 1960s avant-garde group, at one time managed by Andy Warhol and considered the “house band” of his iconic workspace The Factory.
Haynes’ film aims to prove how the group became a cultural touchstone representing a range of contradictions: timely yet timeless; literary yet realistic; rooted in high art and street culture. The film will feature a trove of never-before-seen performances, studio recordings, Warhol movies, and other experimental art that underscores what founding member John Cale called the band’s creative ethos: “how to be elegant and how to be brutal.”
The group, which counted Lou Reed among its ranks, was largely considered a commercial flop during its run, but has proven hugely formative in the music landscape in the decades that followed.
Filmmakers include Haynes...
Haynes tackles the hugely influential 1960s avant-garde group, at one time managed by Andy Warhol and considered the “house band” of his iconic workspace The Factory.
Haynes’ film aims to prove how the group became a cultural touchstone representing a range of contradictions: timely yet timeless; literary yet realistic; rooted in high art and street culture. The film will feature a trove of never-before-seen performances, studio recordings, Warhol movies, and other experimental art that underscores what founding member John Cale called the band’s creative ethos: “how to be elegant and how to be brutal.”
The group, which counted Lou Reed among its ranks, was largely considered a commercial flop during its run, but has proven hugely formative in the music landscape in the decades that followed.
Filmmakers include Haynes...
- 10/21/2020
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
It’s the latest musical do pick-up for Apple. The streamer has landed the Todd Haynes-directed doc about the Velvet Underground.
Aptly titled The Velvet Underground, the doc features in-depth interviews and never before seen performances, all while tracking how the group became the cultural touchstone they are.
Polygram Entertainment is behind the feature that was produced Haynes, Christine Vachon, Julie Goldman, Christopher Clements, Carolyn Hepburn and David Blackman.
Apple, which recently released Beastie Boys Story, has two upcoming musical doc releases — Bruce Springsteen’s Letter to You due out on Oct. 23 and Billie Eilish: The World’s a Little Blurry in February 2021.
Aptly titled The Velvet Underground, the doc features in-depth interviews and never before seen performances, all while tracking how the group became the cultural touchstone they are.
Polygram Entertainment is behind the feature that was produced Haynes, Christine Vachon, Julie Goldman, Christopher Clements, Carolyn Hepburn and David Blackman.
Apple, which recently released Beastie Boys Story, has two upcoming musical doc releases — Bruce Springsteen’s Letter to You due out on Oct. 23 and Billie Eilish: The World’s a Little Blurry in February 2021.
- 10/21/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
It’s the latest musical do pick-up for Apple. The streamer has landed the Todd Haynes-directed doc about the Velvet Underground.
Aptly titled The Velvet Underground, the doc features in-depth interviews and never before seen performances, all while tracking how the group became the cultural touchstone they are.
Polygram Entertainment is behind the feature that was produced Haynes, Christine Vachon, Julie Goldman, Christopher Clements, Carolyn Hepburn and David Blackman.
Apple, which recently released Beastie Boys Story, has two upcoming musical doc releases — Bruce Springsteen’s Letter to You due out on Oct. 23 and Billie Eilish: The World’s a Little Blurry in February 2021.
Aptly titled The Velvet Underground, the doc features in-depth interviews and never before seen performances, all while tracking how the group became the cultural touchstone they are.
Polygram Entertainment is behind the feature that was produced Haynes, Christine Vachon, Julie Goldman, Christopher Clements, Carolyn Hepburn and David Blackman.
Apple, which recently released Beastie Boys Story, has two upcoming musical doc releases — Bruce Springsteen’s Letter to You due out on Oct. 23 and Billie Eilish: The World’s a Little Blurry in February 2021.
- 10/21/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
HBO Documentary Films has acquired the North American rights to “The Bee Gees: How Can You Mend a Broken Heart,” a documentary feature about the disco icons directed by Frank Marshall.
“How Can You Mend a Broken Heart” was a selection of this year’s canceled Telluride Film Festival, and HBO will air it later this year followed by making it available on HBO Max.
Marshall’s film tells the story of Barry, Maurice and Robin Gibb as it looks at their bond as siblings and how they came to write more than 1,000 songs and 20 No. 1 hits.
“How Can You Mend a Broken Hearts” is a Polygram Entertainment presentation and is produced by Kennedy/Marshall and White Horse Pictures production in association with Diamond Docs. Marshall also produces alongside Nigel Sinclair and Jeanne Elfant Festa, as well as Mark Monroe.
The film is executive produced by David Blackman, Jody Gerson,...
“How Can You Mend a Broken Heart” was a selection of this year’s canceled Telluride Film Festival, and HBO will air it later this year followed by making it available on HBO Max.
Marshall’s film tells the story of Barry, Maurice and Robin Gibb as it looks at their bond as siblings and how they came to write more than 1,000 songs and 20 No. 1 hits.
“How Can You Mend a Broken Hearts” is a Polygram Entertainment presentation and is produced by Kennedy/Marshall and White Horse Pictures production in association with Diamond Docs. Marshall also produces alongside Nigel Sinclair and Jeanne Elfant Festa, as well as Mark Monroe.
The film is executive produced by David Blackman, Jody Gerson,...
- 9/24/2020
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Exclusive: HBO Documentary Films has acquired North American rights to The Bee Gees: How Can You Mend A Broken Heart. The feature documentary, which was an official selection of the 2020 Telluride Film Festival before it was scratched by the pandemic, tells the story of an iconic band that is way more than a symbol of the polyester disco era from when their soundtrack fueled Saturday Night Fever. That was just one part of their evolution as musicians, and Frank Marshall has directed an intimate look at siblings Barry, Maurice and Robin Gibb. They wrote more than 1,000 songs, including twenty number one hits throughout their career. The film will premiere on HBO later this year and will be available to stream on HBO Max.
Pic is a Polygram Entertainment presentation of a Kennedy/Marshall and White Horse Pictures production in association with Diamond Docs;. Marshall produced alongside Nigel Sinclair and Jeanne Elfant Festa,...
Pic is a Polygram Entertainment presentation of a Kennedy/Marshall and White Horse Pictures production in association with Diamond Docs;. Marshall produced alongside Nigel Sinclair and Jeanne Elfant Festa,...
- 9/24/2020
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
AGC Studios will fully finance an untitled biopic about Lang Lang from Oscar-winning director Ron Howard.
The film about the world-renowned pianist will be produced by Howard’s longtime partner Brian Grazer, as well as Imagine Entertainment President of Features Karen Lunder and AGC Studios Stuart Ford.
The screenplay by Michelle Mulroney and Kieran Mulroney, the team behind “Paper Man” and “Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows,” is based on “Journey of a Thousand Miles,” a memoir that Lang Lang wrote with David Ritz.
Lang Lang ranks as one of the greatest classical pianists, beloved for his dramatic playing style. But his rise to the top of the music world came at great personal cost. His childhood was marred by the collapse of his parents’ marriage and his family’s precarious financial situation. After moving to America, Lang Lang attended the Curtis Institute of Music where he was mentored by Gary Graffman,...
The film about the world-renowned pianist will be produced by Howard’s longtime partner Brian Grazer, as well as Imagine Entertainment President of Features Karen Lunder and AGC Studios Stuart Ford.
The screenplay by Michelle Mulroney and Kieran Mulroney, the team behind “Paper Man” and “Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows,” is based on “Journey of a Thousand Miles,” a memoir that Lang Lang wrote with David Ritz.
Lang Lang ranks as one of the greatest classical pianists, beloved for his dramatic playing style. But his rise to the top of the music world came at great personal cost. His childhood was marred by the collapse of his parents’ marriage and his family’s precarious financial situation. After moving to America, Lang Lang attended the Curtis Institute of Music where he was mentored by Gary Graffman,...
- 9/22/2020
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.