Chicago – You’ll never hear a better speech about the actor’s gratitude for his hometown than John C. Reilly’s proclamation at the 60th Chicago International Film Festival’s Summer Gala on June 1st, 2024. He brought the house down with emotional and passionate words about his journey that began in the Windy City.
With an astonishing range of roles already under his belt, John C. Reilly has played an eclectic host of rich characters to great effect over the years, from seedy ne’er-do-wells to lovable and good-natured schlepps. The fifth of six children, John Christopher Reilly was born in Chicago, and was brought up on Chicago’s Southwest Side. On the amateur stage from age eight, Reilly trained at the Goodman School of Drama and eventually became a member of Chicago’s renowned Steppenwolf Theatre.
John C. Reilly at the 2024 60th Ciff Summer Gala
Photo credit: Joe Arce of Starstruck Foto for HollywoodChicago.
With an astonishing range of roles already under his belt, John C. Reilly has played an eclectic host of rich characters to great effect over the years, from seedy ne’er-do-wells to lovable and good-natured schlepps. The fifth of six children, John Christopher Reilly was born in Chicago, and was brought up on Chicago’s Southwest Side. On the amateur stage from age eight, Reilly trained at the Goodman School of Drama and eventually became a member of Chicago’s renowned Steppenwolf Theatre.
John C. Reilly at the 2024 60th Ciff Summer Gala
Photo credit: Joe Arce of Starstruck Foto for HollywoodChicago.
- 6/7/2024
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
After $2 billion spent and a lengthy construction process complicated by the pandemic, the Walt Disney Co. threw open the doors Thursday to its sprawling Fantasy Springs addition to the Tokyo Disney Resort. Spanning 1.5 million square feet and comprising new areas inspired by the Frozen, Tangled and Peter Pan franchises, the expansion is a pillar project under Disney’s 10-year, $60 billion investment plan for its global theme parks. It’s also the largest addition in Japan since the Tokyo resort opened over 40 years ago as Disney’s first major international destination.
Signaling the significance of the unveiling, Disney CEO Bob Iger and Josh D’Amaro, chair of Disney Experiences, were both on hand to celebrate the moment alongside executives from Oriental Land, Disney’s Japanese partner and the park’s operator.
“I am so proud of the richly immersive experiences we’ve created together, and I look forward to the bright...
Signaling the significance of the unveiling, Disney CEO Bob Iger and Josh D’Amaro, chair of Disney Experiences, were both on hand to celebrate the moment alongside executives from Oriental Land, Disney’s Japanese partner and the park’s operator.
“I am so proud of the richly immersive experiences we’ve created together, and I look forward to the bright...
- 6/7/2024
- by Patrick Brzeski
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Skydance Animation is getting into business with Oscar-winning filmmaker Don Hall.
Hall, known for such Disney movies as Big Hero 6 and the original Moana, has closed a deal with the company. The pact will see him create, develop and produce an original animated feature for Skydance, although project details are not currently available.
The filmmaker launched his career with Walt Disney Animation Studios, where he worked on such features as Tarzan (1999), The Emperor’s New Groove (2000) and Chicken Little (2005). Later, he was credited as head of story on Meet the Robinsons (2007) and The Princess and the Frog (2009) before directing the animated musical movie Winnie the Pooh (2011).
Hall directed the 2014 Disney film Big Hero 6, in addition to serving as executive producer for its Disney+ spinoff series Baymax! He earned an Oscar alongside fellow director Chris Williams and producer Roy Conli when the title prevailed for best animated feature at the 2015 Academy Awards ceremony.
Hall, known for such Disney movies as Big Hero 6 and the original Moana, has closed a deal with the company. The pact will see him create, develop and produce an original animated feature for Skydance, although project details are not currently available.
The filmmaker launched his career with Walt Disney Animation Studios, where he worked on such features as Tarzan (1999), The Emperor’s New Groove (2000) and Chicken Little (2005). Later, he was credited as head of story on Meet the Robinsons (2007) and The Princess and the Frog (2009) before directing the animated musical movie Winnie the Pooh (2011).
Hall directed the 2014 Disney film Big Hero 6, in addition to serving as executive producer for its Disney+ spinoff series Baymax! He earned an Oscar alongside fellow director Chris Williams and producer Roy Conli when the title prevailed for best animated feature at the 2015 Academy Awards ceremony.
- 6/4/2024
- by Ryan Gajewski
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The very active Helldivers 2 community is always proposing ideas for new content, like adding characters from other franchises to the game. In a recent Reddit post, a user proposed to add a very familiar face from the Disney universe to the title; this particular character makes sense of the game’s lore.
This specific character originates from the Wreck It Ralph movie, specifically Sgt. Calhoun, a fictional character from a first-person shooter game where players engage in combat with aliens resembling those from the Arrowhead Game Studios IP.
The Helldivers 2 Community Has Come up With Another Great Idea Helldivers 2 players want a very interesting crossover.
After the phenomenal success of the Arrowhead Game Studios title, the Helldivers 2 community continued to grow. The game has sold more than 12 million units since its release in February of this year. One of the best things about this particular IP is its very active community,...
This specific character originates from the Wreck It Ralph movie, specifically Sgt. Calhoun, a fictional character from a first-person shooter game where players engage in combat with aliens resembling those from the Arrowhead Game Studios IP.
The Helldivers 2 Community Has Come up With Another Great Idea Helldivers 2 players want a very interesting crossover.
After the phenomenal success of the Arrowhead Game Studios title, the Helldivers 2 community continued to grow. The game has sold more than 12 million units since its release in February of this year. One of the best things about this particular IP is its very active community,...
- 5/28/2024
- by Lucas Lapetina
- FandomWire
As you’ve probably noticed yourselves, the audiences have been very kind to live-action and animated adaptations of video games and similar brands in recent years, as the studios have seemingly cracked the formula for making a good video game-based movie. Disney had a hit with Wreck-It-Ralph, the Lego franchise is now a classic, and The Super Mario Bros. Movie was a major hit, with last year’s Barbie (based on a major toy brand) being a global phenomenon. Knowing that fact, the video game adaptation market is growing, and we can confirm that the teased live-action movie based on The Sims franchise is moving forward.
It has been confirmed that Amazon MGM Studios have acquired the rights to the film and will actually provide part of the budget, so the movie has managed to land a major studio behind it, and some big names are attached to the project as well,...
It has been confirmed that Amazon MGM Studios have acquired the rights to the film and will actually provide part of the budget, so the movie has managed to land a major studio behind it, and some big names are attached to the project as well,...
- 5/21/2024
- by Arthur S. Poe
- Fiction Horizon
Comedy is an industry largely dominated by men. And while many of those men are genuinely hilarious, several women are just as funny but far less lauded. Some have earned their rightful praise and lots of money, too.
Comedian Profiles Leslie Jones – $7 million Sarah Silverman – $8 million Molly Shannon – $8 million Samantha Bee – $8 million Ellie Kemper – $9 million Kate McKinnon – $9 million Wanda Sykes – $10 million Alex Borstein – $14 million Lily Tomlin – $20 million Chelsea Peretti – $20 million Kristen Wiig – $25 million Amy Poehler – $25 million Mindy Kaling – $35 million Whitney Cummings – $35 million Chelsea Handler – $35 million Kathy Griffin – $35 million Amy Schumer – $45 million Carol Burnett – $45 million Whoopi Goldberg – $60 million Tina Fey – $75 million Roseanne Barr – $80 million Melissa McCarthy – $90 million Rosie O’Donnell – $120 million Julia Louis-Dreyfus – $250 million Ellen DeGeneres – $500 million
Here are the world’s richest female comedians:
25. Leslie Jones – Net Worth: $7 Million
Stand-up extraordinaire Leslie Jones has been part of the industry for many years but truly made a splash in 2013 when she joined...
Comedian Profiles Leslie Jones – $7 million Sarah Silverman – $8 million Molly Shannon – $8 million Samantha Bee – $8 million Ellie Kemper – $9 million Kate McKinnon – $9 million Wanda Sykes – $10 million Alex Borstein – $14 million Lily Tomlin – $20 million Chelsea Peretti – $20 million Kristen Wiig – $25 million Amy Poehler – $25 million Mindy Kaling – $35 million Whitney Cummings – $35 million Chelsea Handler – $35 million Kathy Griffin – $35 million Amy Schumer – $45 million Carol Burnett – $45 million Whoopi Goldberg – $60 million Tina Fey – $75 million Roseanne Barr – $80 million Melissa McCarthy – $90 million Rosie O’Donnell – $120 million Julia Louis-Dreyfus – $250 million Ellen DeGeneres – $500 million
Here are the world’s richest female comedians:
25. Leslie Jones – Net Worth: $7 Million
Stand-up extraordinaire Leslie Jones has been part of the industry for many years but truly made a splash in 2013 when she joined...
- 5/8/2024
- by Florie Mae Malapit
- Your Next Shoes
In early 2022, Disney announced a brand new kart racing game in partnership with developer and publisher Gameloft called Disney Speedstorm. The game lets players take control of different Disney and Pixar characters and race across tracks based on various Disney and Pixar films. Several films and franchises, such as Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Frozen, Monsters Inc., and Toy Story, are represented.
The game launched in September 2023. While it operated under the free-to-play model, it encouraged players to buy in-game currency to unlock more content. All content could be earned through player progression without paying.
In each new season in the game, new content is added and can be purchased through passes using in game tokens that can be either bought with real world money or earned in game. The upcoming seventh season will be Wreck-it-Ralph themed and will feature five new racers and a new track.
However, now the...
The game launched in September 2023. While it operated under the free-to-play model, it encouraged players to buy in-game currency to unlock more content. All content could be earned through player progression without paying.
In each new season in the game, new content is added and can be purchased through passes using in game tokens that can be either bought with real world money or earned in game. The upcoming seventh season will be Wreck-it-Ralph themed and will feature five new racers and a new track.
However, now the...
- 4/14/2024
- by Mr. Milo
- Pirates & Princesses
Among Disney’s “announcements” during their annual shareholder meeting, a piece of blue sky art was presented as a possible look at what an Avatar-themed area in Disneyland could look like.
During Disney CEO Bob Iger’s comments about all the “turbocharging” coming to Disney parks, an image of concept art for the Avatar area was put up, and they kept teasing.
It’s basically concept art a “potential” area. Disney keeps using wording like this when showing artwork to try and excite their park fans. But it’s just artwork and that doesn’t mean it will actually be produced or will look like what has been presented.
Here’s what was posted on the Disney Parks Blog:
“We were thrilled to unveil a piece of inspirational artwork developed for a potential new Avatar experience at the Disneyland Resort. We are excited about the stories our guests could experience...
During Disney CEO Bob Iger’s comments about all the “turbocharging” coming to Disney parks, an image of concept art for the Avatar area was put up, and they kept teasing.
It’s basically concept art a “potential” area. Disney keeps using wording like this when showing artwork to try and excite their park fans. But it’s just artwork and that doesn’t mean it will actually be produced or will look like what has been presented.
Here’s what was posted on the Disney Parks Blog:
“We were thrilled to unveil a piece of inspirational artwork developed for a potential new Avatar experience at the Disneyland Resort. We are excited about the stories our guests could experience...
- 4/3/2024
- by Kambrea Pratt
- Pirates & Princesses
Disney CEO Bob Iger gave fans some insight into the change in the release plan for Moana 2.
Iger officially confirmed development for Moana 2 as a feature film in February 2024, sharing multiple pieces of concept art and setting multiple characters in stone for a comeback from the original film.
The movie marks only the third time Disney has given an animated movie a direct theatrical sequel after 2012's Wreck-It Ralph and 2013's Frozen.
Read full article on The Direct.
Iger officially confirmed development for Moana 2 as a feature film in February 2024, sharing multiple pieces of concept art and setting multiple characters in stone for a comeback from the original film.
The movie marks only the third time Disney has given an animated movie a direct theatrical sequel after 2012's Wreck-It Ralph and 2013's Frozen.
Read full article on The Direct.
- 3/23/2024
- by Richard Nebens
- The Direct
Recent years have been very kind to live-action and animated adaptations of video games and similar brands. Disney had a hit with Wreck-It-Ralph, the Lego franchise is now a classic, Spielberg’s Ready Player One was a major hit, as was The Super Mario Bros. Movie, and last year’s Barbie (based on a major toy brand) was a major hit. Considering that, we’re not surprised that studios want to capitalize on this phenomenon and are steadily approaching new ideas and adaptations.
As the Insider reports, there is a new similar project coming up, as a live-action adaptation of The Sims video game franchise is in the works. Also, we found out that Margot Robbie is attached to produce the movie, teaming up with Kate Herron, who is attached to direct the film. This reminds us of the Robbie-Gerwing team-up that brought us Barbie last year, so it is definitely an exciting prospect,...
As the Insider reports, there is a new similar project coming up, as a live-action adaptation of The Sims video game franchise is in the works. Also, we found out that Margot Robbie is attached to produce the movie, teaming up with Kate Herron, who is attached to direct the film. This reminds us of the Robbie-Gerwing team-up that brought us Barbie last year, so it is definitely an exciting prospect,...
- 3/21/2024
- by Arthur S. Poe
- Fiction Horizon
Oscar frontrunner “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” won a leading seven races at the Annie Awards on Feb. 17, including Best Studio Animated Feature over two of its Oscar rivals — “The Boy and the Heron” and “Nimona” — plus “Suzume.” and “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem.” The fifth Oscar contender, “Robot Dreams ” won Best Independent Feature over “Ernest & Celestine: A Trip to Gibberitia,” “Four Souls of Coyote,” “The Inventor” and “White Plastic Sky.”
“Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” went seven for seven with wins also for director, character design, editorial, FX, music and production design. “The Boy and the Heron” picked up a pair of prizes from its seven bids: character animation and storyboarding. Likewise “Nimona” prevailed in two of its nine races: voice acting (Chloe Grace Moretz) and writing.
Eight of the last 12 Annie Awards champs have previewed the Oscar winner: “Rango” (2012), “Frozen” (2014), “Inside Out” (2016), “Zootopia” (2017), “Coco” (2018), “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse...
“Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” went seven for seven with wins also for director, character design, editorial, FX, music and production design. “The Boy and the Heron” picked up a pair of prizes from its seven bids: character animation and storyboarding. Likewise “Nimona” prevailed in two of its nine races: voice acting (Chloe Grace Moretz) and writing.
Eight of the last 12 Annie Awards champs have previewed the Oscar winner: “Rango” (2012), “Frozen” (2014), “Inside Out” (2016), “Zootopia” (2017), “Coco” (2018), “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse...
- 2/18/2024
- by Paul Sheehan
- Gold Derby
Epic Games is getting a $1.5bn cash injection from Disney, as the two companies announce a new “entertainment universe” connected to Fortnite.
Following a financially iffy 2023, The Walt Disney Company is evidently keen to reassure investors that it has some big, lucrative ideas for the future. To this end, Disney has announced that it’s partnering with Epic Games, the makers of Fortnite and Unreal Engine, to create a “new persistent universe” connected to Fortnite.
Announced as part of its shareholder meeting held on the 7th February, the new deal will also include Disney’s acquisition of a $1.5bn equity stake in Epic. That’s a lot of money, and the “entertainment universe” the two companies are creating sounds like an ambitious one; Disney describes it as a “multiyear project”, and one that, once finished, will “offer a multitude of opportunities for consumers to play, watch, shop and engage with content,...
Following a financially iffy 2023, The Walt Disney Company is evidently keen to reassure investors that it has some big, lucrative ideas for the future. To this end, Disney has announced that it’s partnering with Epic Games, the makers of Fortnite and Unreal Engine, to create a “new persistent universe” connected to Fortnite.
Announced as part of its shareholder meeting held on the 7th February, the new deal will also include Disney’s acquisition of a $1.5bn equity stake in Epic. That’s a lot of money, and the “entertainment universe” the two companies are creating sounds like an ambitious one; Disney describes it as a “multiyear project”, and one that, once finished, will “offer a multitude of opportunities for consumers to play, watch, shop and engage with content,...
- 2/8/2024
- by Ryan Lambie
- Film Stories
Apple TV+ today released the trailer for the all-new, highly anticipated Peanuts special “Snoopy Presents: Welcome Home, Franklin,” premiering globally on Friday, February 16.
The origin story for one of Peanuts’ most beloved characters, the special follows Franklin as he moves to a new town and navigates new friendships. Franklin’s family is always on the move with his dad’s military job, and everywhere he goes Franklin finds support in a notebook filled with his grandfather’s advice on friendship. But when Franklin tries his usual strategies with the Peanuts gang, he has trouble fitting in. That’s until he learns about the neighborhood Soap Box Derby race – according to his grandfather, everyone loves a winner! He’s sure that winning the race will also mean winning over some new friends. All he needs is a partner, which he finds in Charlie Brown. Franklin and Charlie Brown work together to...
The origin story for one of Peanuts’ most beloved characters, the special follows Franklin as he moves to a new town and navigates new friendships. Franklin’s family is always on the move with his dad’s military job, and everywhere he goes Franklin finds support in a notebook filled with his grandfather’s advice on friendship. But when Franklin tries his usual strategies with the Peanuts gang, he has trouble fitting in. That’s until he learns about the neighborhood Soap Box Derby race – according to his grandfather, everyone loves a winner! He’s sure that winning the race will also mean winning over some new friends. All he needs is a partner, which he finds in Charlie Brown. Franklin and Charlie Brown work together to...
- 2/2/2024
- by Kristyn Clarke
- Age of the Nerd
Not surprisingly, our five leading contenders for Best Animated Feature at the Oscars also dominate the Annie Awards nominations announced on January 11. The predicted Oscar winner, “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,” reaped a lucky seven nominations. However, it is another likely Oscar contender, “Nimona,” that topped the nominations chart with nine bids.
All three of these films contend for Best Studio Animated Feature as does six-time nominee “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem.” We expect another six-time nominee, “Elemental” to reap an Oscar bid for Best Animated Feature even though it was snubbed in the top race by the Annies. That category is filled out here by “Suzume,” which earned seven nominations in all.
The Best Independent Feature nominees are: “Ernest & Celestine: A Trip to Gibberitia,” “Four Souls of Coyote,” “Robot Dreams,” “The Inventor” and “White Plastic Sky.”
These precursor prizes are presented by the Hollywood chapter of the International Animated Film Association.
All three of these films contend for Best Studio Animated Feature as does six-time nominee “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem.” We expect another six-time nominee, “Elemental” to reap an Oscar bid for Best Animated Feature even though it was snubbed in the top race by the Annies. That category is filled out here by “Suzume,” which earned seven nominations in all.
The Best Independent Feature nominees are: “Ernest & Celestine: A Trip to Gibberitia,” “Four Souls of Coyote,” “Robot Dreams,” “The Inventor” and “White Plastic Sky.”
These precursor prizes are presented by the Hollywood chapter of the International Animated Film Association.
- 1/11/2024
- by Paul Sheehan
- Gold Derby
With this year being the 100 year anniversary of The Walt Disney Company and the release of their latest animated title, Wish, we wanted to know what animated Disney film has been your favorite over the years? We stuck to films specifically released by Disney, so no Pixar titles are included. What struck me while compiling the list is the progression of their films. From the innocence of their early work to what many consider their heyday in the early 90’s to the emergence of the CGI era. For many of us, Disney films defined our youth, but which is the one that has remained with you all these years? As always, if you don’t see your favorite listed, please click “Other” and let us know what it is in the comments section as well as any fond memories you have of these timeless classics.
What is your favorite Disney Animated Film?...
What is your favorite Disney Animated Film?...
- 11/26/2023
- by Brad Hamerly
- JoBlo.com
To celebrate its well-earned 100th anniversary, the Walt Disney Animation Studios (hereinafter "Disney Studios") turned over its latest animation effort, Wish, to one of their veteran, in-house A-teams, Frozen co-director Chris Buck and co-writer Jennifer Lee. Together with first-timer Fawn Veerasunthorn sharing co-directing duties with Buck, screenwriter Allison Moore doing the same with Lee on scripting duties (plus an assortment of credited and uncredited writers), and the best animation Disney’s money can buy, Wish delivers handsome, eye-catching visuals, hummable songs two or three steps above mediocre (all ably performed by the voice cast), and the now obligatory self-empowerment narrative to mostly positive, if occasionally middling, muddled, results. Liberally interweaving classic references, including Disney’s...
[Read the whole post on screenanarchy.com...]...
[Read the whole post on screenanarchy.com...]...
- 11/22/2023
- Screen Anarchy
The baby goat Valentino is going to be one of the most popular characters from Disney’s new animated movie Wish and you might be wondering who voiced the role.
The goat is given the power of speech after lead character Asha places a wish on a star, which then falls from the sky to help her on her journey.
Valentino also accompanies Asha on her quest to give the people of Rosas their wishes back after learning King Magnifico has no plans to grant most of them.
So, who plays Valentino?
Keep reading to find out more…
Alan Tudyk voices Valentino the Goat!
Alan Tudyk provides the voice of Valentino and he has been featured in every Walt Disney Animation Studios film since 2012′s Wreck-It-Ralph. Some of his other beloved characters include the Duke of Weselton in Frozen, Heihei in Moana, and Pico in Encanto.
“Doing Valentino for Wish originally he was so cute,...
The goat is given the power of speech after lead character Asha places a wish on a star, which then falls from the sky to help her on her journey.
Valentino also accompanies Asha on her quest to give the people of Rosas their wishes back after learning King Magnifico has no plans to grant most of them.
So, who plays Valentino?
Keep reading to find out more…
Alan Tudyk voices Valentino the Goat!
Alan Tudyk provides the voice of Valentino and he has been featured in every Walt Disney Animation Studios film since 2012′s Wreck-It-Ralph. Some of his other beloved characters include the Duke of Weselton in Frozen, Heihei in Moana, and Pico in Encanto.
“Doing Valentino for Wish originally he was so cute,...
- 11/22/2023
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
This holiday season’s Wish is the 62nd feature film from the fabled Walt Disney Animation Studios, and the only one to be released during the animation house’s 100th anniversary. You can feel the weight of legacy in nearly every pixel of the film’s exquisitely designed frames.
Ever since Disney made the fateful choice to shut down Wdas’ hand-drawn divisions some 15 years ago, the studio has struggled with a sense of loss; the loss of history, the loss of legacy; and the loss of a little bit of that Disney magic. In the same timeframe, the company also scaled new creative heights, releasing several of their best so-called princess (or fairy tale) movies in the canon—Tangled, Frozen, Moana—and some true groundbreaking risks like Zootopia and the first Wreck-It Ralph. However, it’s never been quite the same.
This may be why nostalgia for dreams of old permeates Wish.
Ever since Disney made the fateful choice to shut down Wdas’ hand-drawn divisions some 15 years ago, the studio has struggled with a sense of loss; the loss of history, the loss of legacy; and the loss of a little bit of that Disney magic. In the same timeframe, the company also scaled new creative heights, releasing several of their best so-called princess (or fairy tale) movies in the canon—Tangled, Frozen, Moana—and some true groundbreaking risks like Zootopia and the first Wreck-It Ralph. However, it’s never been quite the same.
This may be why nostalgia for dreams of old permeates Wish.
- 11/17/2023
- by David Crow
- Den of Geek
David Ellison’s fledgling Skydance Animation — run by head of animation John Lasseter and president Holly Edwards — has moved its movie slate from Apple Studios to Netflix. The multi-year streaming deal commences with next year’s musical fantasy “Spellbound,” directed by Vicky Jenson (“Shrek” and “Shark Tale”), featuring the voice talent of Rachel Zegler, Nicole Kidman, and Javier Bardem, and boasting a score from Alan Menkin and original songs with lyricist Glen Slater. It’s about a princess who tries to reverse a spell that transformed her parents into monsters.
Set for release in 2025 is “Pookoo,” a buddy comedy about two enemies — a woodland creature and a majestic bird — that magically trade places. It’s helmed by former Disney director Nathan Greno (“Tangled”), with original music composed by Siddhartha Khosla.
Also in the works are two prestigious features that are a result of Lasseter’s strong relationships with directors Brad Bird...
Set for release in 2025 is “Pookoo,” a buddy comedy about two enemies — a woodland creature and a majestic bird — that magically trade places. It’s helmed by former Disney director Nathan Greno (“Tangled”), with original music composed by Siddhartha Khosla.
Also in the works are two prestigious features that are a result of Lasseter’s strong relationships with directors Brad Bird...
- 10/18/2023
- by Bill Desowitz
- Indiewire
’Spellbound’, Pookoo’ first titles in upcoming slate.
Skydance Animation has signed a multi-year exclusive agreement with Netflix to develop and produce animated films to be released directly on Netflix.
The deal kicks off with Spellbound (pictured) in 2024 followed by Pookoo a year later and expands on the prior relationship between the streamer and Skydance Media.
Wednesday’s announcement comes as Skydance Animation’s multi-year deal with Apple ends as the latter shifts its focus to other types of film. Spellbound had been set to debut on Apple TV+ but will now launch on Netflix.
Skydance Media and Apple continue to...
Skydance Animation has signed a multi-year exclusive agreement with Netflix to develop and produce animated films to be released directly on Netflix.
The deal kicks off with Spellbound (pictured) in 2024 followed by Pookoo a year later and expands on the prior relationship between the streamer and Skydance Media.
Wednesday’s announcement comes as Skydance Animation’s multi-year deal with Apple ends as the latter shifts its focus to other types of film. Spellbound had been set to debut on Apple TV+ but will now launch on Netflix.
Skydance Media and Apple continue to...
- 10/18/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Long-time Disney music arranger and orchestrator Dave Metzger is finally getting his “Wish.” After two decades and orchestrating “Tarzan,” “Wreck-It Ralph” and “Frozen,” Metzger is composing his first full animated feature, “Wish.”
Speaking to Variety during scoring session breaks in early September, Metzger says getting the call was amazing. “I’ve always done a lot of composing, but it’s always been as the unknown composer or the additional music person,” he says. But after 25 years of being that additional music person, Metzger wondered if the window on getting his composing credit would ever become a reality. “I had reached the point where I wasn’t sure,” he admits.
A phone call from Matthew Walker, VP of Music at Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios changed that. Metzger says, “He said he was considering me to be the composer for ‘Wish.’”
The film, set to be released on Nov. 22, continues...
Speaking to Variety during scoring session breaks in early September, Metzger says getting the call was amazing. “I’ve always done a lot of composing, but it’s always been as the unknown composer or the additional music person,” he says. But after 25 years of being that additional music person, Metzger wondered if the window on getting his composing credit would ever become a reality. “I had reached the point where I wasn’t sure,” he admits.
A phone call from Matthew Walker, VP of Music at Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios changed that. Metzger says, “He said he was considering me to be the composer for ‘Wish.’”
The film, set to be released on Nov. 22, continues...
- 10/18/2023
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
Monsters at Work executive producer Kevin Deters revealed the second season guest cast today at New York Comic-Con, along with a sneak peek screening ahead of its debut in 2024.
Season two guest stars reprising their roles from the Monsters Inc. franchise include Aubrey Plaza (The White Lotus) as Claire Wheeler, Nathan Fillion (ABC’s The Rookie) as Johnny Worthington III, and Bobby Moynihan (Saturday Night Live) as Chet Alexander.
Additional guest cast includes Jennifer Coolidge (The White Lotus), Rhys Darby (Our Flag Means Death), Janelle James (Abbott Elementary), Jenifer Lewis (ABC’s black-ish), Ali Wong (Beef), Bowen Yang (Saturday Night Live), Paula Pell (Saturday Night Live), Danny Pudi (Community), Cody Rigsby (Peloton instructor, Author, TV personality), Jimmy Tatro (ABC’s Home Economics), Danny Trejo (Machete), Joe Lo Truglio (Brooklyn Nine-Nine) and Alan Tudyk (Resident Alien).
The series stars Billy Crystal (Mike Wazowski), John Goodman (James P Sullivan aka Sulley), Ben Feldman...
Season two guest stars reprising their roles from the Monsters Inc. franchise include Aubrey Plaza (The White Lotus) as Claire Wheeler, Nathan Fillion (ABC’s The Rookie) as Johnny Worthington III, and Bobby Moynihan (Saturday Night Live) as Chet Alexander.
Additional guest cast includes Jennifer Coolidge (The White Lotus), Rhys Darby (Our Flag Means Death), Janelle James (Abbott Elementary), Jenifer Lewis (ABC’s black-ish), Ali Wong (Beef), Bowen Yang (Saturday Night Live), Paula Pell (Saturday Night Live), Danny Pudi (Community), Cody Rigsby (Peloton instructor, Author, TV personality), Jimmy Tatro (ABC’s Home Economics), Danny Trejo (Machete), Joe Lo Truglio (Brooklyn Nine-Nine) and Alan Tudyk (Resident Alien).
The series stars Billy Crystal (Mike Wazowski), John Goodman (James P Sullivan aka Sulley), Ben Feldman...
- 10/15/2023
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
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Disney fans and physical media collectors, rejoice! This November will see the release of a gargantuan 100-film Blu-ray collection called the Disney Legacy Animated Film Collection. The catch? It’ll cost you $1,499.96.
The boxed set officially releases on Nov. 14, but preorders are currently available exclusively at Walmart’s website.
Disney Legacy Animated Film Collection $1,499.96 Buy Now
The collection is packaged as a three-volume set, featuring animated films from Disney, Walt Disney Animation and Pixar. But unlike other behemoth boxed sets, this one isn’t filled with lame direct-to video snoozers but beloved titles that includes classics and recent favorites. For example, the long-running list includes all the “Toy Story” movies, both of “The Incredibles,” “The Black Cauldron,” “Frankenweenie” and “Robin Hood.” It even includes films as recent as this...
Disney fans and physical media collectors, rejoice! This November will see the release of a gargantuan 100-film Blu-ray collection called the Disney Legacy Animated Film Collection. The catch? It’ll cost you $1,499.96.
The boxed set officially releases on Nov. 14, but preorders are currently available exclusively at Walmart’s website.
Disney Legacy Animated Film Collection $1,499.96 Buy Now
The collection is packaged as a three-volume set, featuring animated films from Disney, Walt Disney Animation and Pixar. But unlike other behemoth boxed sets, this one isn’t filled with lame direct-to video snoozers but beloved titles that includes classics and recent favorites. For example, the long-running list includes all the “Toy Story” movies, both of “The Incredibles,” “The Black Cauldron,” “Frankenweenie” and “Robin Hood.” It even includes films as recent as this...
- 9/21/2023
- by Anna Tingley
- Variety Film + TV
The BFI London Film Festival has unveiled the full lineup for its revamped “Industry Forum,” which will feature keynote sessions with Jennifer Lee, chief creative officer of Disney Animation Studios, and Bill Kramer, CEO of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts (AMPAS).
Lee will headline what the BFI described as one of three “spotlight” conversations during the forum. She will be joined on stage by former Lff head Tricia Tuttle, who is now Head of Directing Fiction at the National Film and Television School. The other headline speakers are Emile Sherman and Iain Canning, the co-founders of See-Saw Films, and Carole Baraton, CEO of the leading French sales company Charades. Elsewhere, Kramer will take part in an on-stage conversation with BFI CEO Ben Roberts, alongside his British counterpart, BAFTA head Jane Millichip.
Away from industry keynotes, Lff will host its second annual New Waves co-production meetings. This year 12 producers from...
Lee will headline what the BFI described as one of three “spotlight” conversations during the forum. She will be joined on stage by former Lff head Tricia Tuttle, who is now Head of Directing Fiction at the National Film and Television School. The other headline speakers are Emile Sherman and Iain Canning, the co-founders of See-Saw Films, and Carole Baraton, CEO of the leading French sales company Charades. Elsewhere, Kramer will take part in an on-stage conversation with BFI CEO Ben Roberts, alongside his British counterpart, BAFTA head Jane Millichip.
Away from industry keynotes, Lff will host its second annual New Waves co-production meetings. This year 12 producers from...
- 9/20/2023
- by Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
The world is never a nice place in the stories of Roald Dahl. Across the beloved British author's vast body of literature, one will find works about abusive caretakers, sadistic authority figures, and horrible fantasy characters itching to do harm to children. Just as often, though, his tales center on courageous kids and kindly adults willing and able to stand up to these bad grownups and terrifying monsters. It's why Dahl's writing continues to resonate with younger generations, despite the ongoing struggle to reconcile the timeless messages of his novels and short stories with Dahl's many failings as a human being.
Having acquired the Roald Dahl Story Company back in 2021, Netflix has a financial motive for keeping Dahl's stories alive and well in the general public's memory. The streamer has already released a well-received film adaptation of the "Matilda" stage musical based on Dahl's book of the same name,...
Having acquired the Roald Dahl Story Company back in 2021, Netflix has a financial motive for keeping Dahl's stories alive and well in the general public's memory. The streamer has already released a well-received film adaptation of the "Matilda" stage musical based on Dahl's book of the same name,...
- 9/19/2023
- by Sandy Schaefer
- Slash Film
Netflix is certainly going all-in on its big Roald Dahl deal. With Wes Anderson's adaptations of The Wonderful Story Of Henry Sugar and other Dahl tales arriving this month, we also have word on what will become the company's first animated adaptation. Wreck-It Ralph veteran Phil Johnston is overseeing The Twits.
Co-written by Johnston and Meg Favreau, the story (loosely) adapts Dahl's tale of Mr. and Mrs. Twit. They are the meanest, smelliest, nastiest people in the world who also happen to own and operate the most disgusting, most dangerous, most idiotic amusement park in the world, Twitlandia.
But when the Twits rise to power in their town, two brave orphans and a family of magical animals are forced to become as tricky as the Twits in order to save the city…
"I’ve always been attracted to reprehensible characters," says Johnston. "I don’t know what this says about me,...
Co-written by Johnston and Meg Favreau, the story (loosely) adapts Dahl's tale of Mr. and Mrs. Twit. They are the meanest, smelliest, nastiest people in the world who also happen to own and operate the most disgusting, most dangerous, most idiotic amusement park in the world, Twitlandia.
But when the Twits rise to power in their town, two brave orphans and a family of magical animals are forced to become as tricky as the Twits in order to save the city…
"I’ve always been attracted to reprehensible characters," says Johnston. "I don’t know what this says about me,...
- 9/18/2023
- by James White
- Empire - Movies
“The Twits,” a new animated feature based on the Roald Dahl book of the same name, will be coming to Netflix in 2025.
Phil Johnston, a Disney vet who worked on “Wreck-It Ralph,” “Zootopia” and “Ralph Breaks the Internet” (which he also directed alongside longtime collaborator Rich Moore), is directing, producing and co-writing “The Twits.” Katie Shanahan and Todd Demong are on board as co-directors, with Meg Favreau co-writing the script with Johnston.
“The Twits” is the first animated venture to come out of Netflix’s 2021 acquisition of the Roald Dahl Story Company. The company says that the “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” series is still on the way and there will be more announcements forthcoming. But so far the only thing to come from the Dahl purchase are a series of short films helmed by Wes Anderson that will debut later this month, beginning with the 40-minute “The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar.
Phil Johnston, a Disney vet who worked on “Wreck-It Ralph,” “Zootopia” and “Ralph Breaks the Internet” (which he also directed alongside longtime collaborator Rich Moore), is directing, producing and co-writing “The Twits.” Katie Shanahan and Todd Demong are on board as co-directors, with Meg Favreau co-writing the script with Johnston.
“The Twits” is the first animated venture to come out of Netflix’s 2021 acquisition of the Roald Dahl Story Company. The company says that the “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” series is still on the way and there will be more announcements forthcoming. But so far the only thing to come from the Dahl purchase are a series of short films helmed by Wes Anderson that will debut later this month, beginning with the 40-minute “The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar.
- 9/18/2023
- by Drew Taylor
- The Wrap
Oscar-nominated filmmaker Phil Johnston has adapted The Twits, the children’s novel penned by Roald Dahl in the 1980s, into an animated feature set to hit Netflix in 2025.
The pic, which Johnston co-wrote with Meg Favreau, is the first screen adaptation based on the Roald Dahl book of the same name. The novel has been translated into 41 languages and sold 16 million copies worldwide.
With animation by the Brixton-based studio Jellyfish Pictures, the pic follows Mr. and Mrs. Twit, the meanest, smelliest, nastiest people in the world who also happen to own and operate the most disgusting, most dangerous, most idiotic amusement park in the world, Twitlandia. But when the Twits rise to power in their town, two brave orphans and a family of magical animals are forced to become as tricky as the Twits to save the city.
Synopsis reads: A hysterically funny,...
The pic, which Johnston co-wrote with Meg Favreau, is the first screen adaptation based on the Roald Dahl book of the same name. The novel has been translated into 41 languages and sold 16 million copies worldwide.
With animation by the Brixton-based studio Jellyfish Pictures, the pic follows Mr. and Mrs. Twit, the meanest, smelliest, nastiest people in the world who also happen to own and operate the most disgusting, most dangerous, most idiotic amusement park in the world, Twitlandia. But when the Twits rise to power in their town, two brave orphans and a family of magical animals are forced to become as tricky as the Twits to save the city.
Synopsis reads: A hysterically funny,...
- 9/18/2023
- by Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
If you’re a Disney fan who wants each and every animated movie they’ve ever made in one place, then you’re in luck. The Walt Disney Company announced the Disney Legacy Animated Film Collection, which features 100 animated movies from Disney, Walt Disney Animation Studios, and Pixar on Blu-ray. Everything from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs to Elemental is included, encompassing nearly one hundred years of storytelling.
Related Disney and Pixar’s Elemental comes to Disney+ on September 13th
The Disney Legacy Animated Film Collection is a self-standing, three-volume set that will be available for pre-order on September 19th, but only on Walmart.com. There will be a limited amount of sets available, so each will include a numbered certificate of authenticity. The set will also feature digital codes for each title, along with a collectible lithograph from Disney Animation’s all-new musical comedy Wish, and a collectible...
Related Disney and Pixar’s Elemental comes to Disney+ on September 13th
The Disney Legacy Animated Film Collection is a self-standing, three-volume set that will be available for pre-order on September 19th, but only on Walmart.com. There will be a limited amount of sets available, so each will include a numbered certificate of authenticity. The set will also feature digital codes for each title, along with a collectible lithograph from Disney Animation’s all-new musical comedy Wish, and a collectible...
- 9/11/2023
- by Kevin Fraser
- JoBlo.com
The Walt Disney Company is celebrating its 100th anniversary with a hefty new Blu-ray box set containing 100 of its best animated films.
Officially titled the Disney Legacy Animated Film Collection, the box set comes with three volumes that open up to feature the original theatrical artwork for each film. Additionally, the package offers digital codes to all 100 movies, a certificate of authenticity, a lithograph from the upcoming feature Wish, and a collectible set of crystal Mickey Mouse ears engraved with “Disney 100.”
Drawing films from Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar, and the now-closed DisneyToon Studios, the collection offers a pretty comprehensive timeline of the company, founded in 1923. The box set features early classics like Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Cinderella, Alice in Wonderland, and Peter Pan, 1990s renaissance films like Aladdin, The Lion King, and Toy Story, and more modern offerings — many of which got the direct-to-Disney+ treatment thanks to Covid — including Soul,...
Officially titled the Disney Legacy Animated Film Collection, the box set comes with three volumes that open up to feature the original theatrical artwork for each film. Additionally, the package offers digital codes to all 100 movies, a certificate of authenticity, a lithograph from the upcoming feature Wish, and a collectible set of crystal Mickey Mouse ears engraved with “Disney 100.”
Drawing films from Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar, and the now-closed DisneyToon Studios, the collection offers a pretty comprehensive timeline of the company, founded in 1923. The box set features early classics like Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Cinderella, Alice in Wonderland, and Peter Pan, 1990s renaissance films like Aladdin, The Lion King, and Toy Story, and more modern offerings — many of which got the direct-to-Disney+ treatment thanks to Covid — including Soul,...
- 9/11/2023
- by Carys Anderson
- Consequence - Film News
Disney just announced the release of the Disney Legacy Animated Film Collection, featuring 100 animated films from Disney, Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar. It’s packaged together as a three-volume set that unfolds into your own storybook.
The set is festooned with original poster designs and comes with digital codes for every movie, alongside a lithograph from Disney’s upcoming feature “Wish,” a certificate of authenticity and crystal Mickey Mouse ears engraved with the “Disney 100” logo. The limited-edition collection will be available on Nov. 14, with pre-orders beginning on Walmart.com on Sept. 18. It has a retail price of $1,500.
What’s fascinating about the set is that it includes a wide array of classic Walt Disney Animation Studios features, along with beloved Pixar favorites and a smattering of films (many of them direct-to-video sequels to earlier masterworks) created by the since-shuttered DisneyToon Studios. That includes “Tinker Bell,” “Return to Neverland,” “The...
The set is festooned with original poster designs and comes with digital codes for every movie, alongside a lithograph from Disney’s upcoming feature “Wish,” a certificate of authenticity and crystal Mickey Mouse ears engraved with the “Disney 100” logo. The limited-edition collection will be available on Nov. 14, with pre-orders beginning on Walmart.com on Sept. 18. It has a retail price of $1,500.
What’s fascinating about the set is that it includes a wide array of classic Walt Disney Animation Studios features, along with beloved Pixar favorites and a smattering of films (many of them direct-to-video sequels to earlier masterworks) created by the since-shuttered DisneyToon Studios. That includes “Tinker Bell,” “Return to Neverland,” “The...
- 9/10/2023
- by Drew Taylor
- The Wrap
Dive into the virtual world of Wreck-It Ralph, where characters burst off the screen with a lifelike energy that captivates audiences of all ages. From the lovable and misunderstood titular character Ralph to the feisty and resourceful Vanellope, each character is masterfully portrayed by an exceptional voice actor. It’s safe to say that they go out of their way to add depth and personality to the animation. Each performance creates an emotional connection that allows viewers to empathize with the characters and become fully immersed in their adventures. Whether you’re a fan of the franchise or simply curious about the magic...
- 9/1/2023
- by Ima Whyte
- TVovermind.com
See the line where the sky meets the sea? That’s where you can find a brand new “Moana” print from Cyclops Print Works, this one created by celebrated Walt Disney Animation Studios artist Daniel Arriaga.
The 19-color screen-print edition is limited to only 200 and will be available to the public for purchase starting on Wednesday, Aug. 23 at 10 a.m. Pt on the Cyclops Print Works site. You can get a full look at the print below. The print costs $80 and a portion of each sale will be donated to relief efforts in Maui, Hawaii.
Arriaga started at Pixar back in 2001, working as an assistant in Simulation and Effects for “Monsters, Inc.” He subsequently worked on future Pixar classics like “The Incredibles,” “Ratatouille,” “Wall•E” and “Up,” before serving as Character Art Director for “Toy Story 3.” After a stint at Walt Disney Animation working on “Prep and Landing 2” and “Wreck-It Ralph,...
The 19-color screen-print edition is limited to only 200 and will be available to the public for purchase starting on Wednesday, Aug. 23 at 10 a.m. Pt on the Cyclops Print Works site. You can get a full look at the print below. The print costs $80 and a portion of each sale will be donated to relief efforts in Maui, Hawaii.
Arriaga started at Pixar back in 2001, working as an assistant in Simulation and Effects for “Monsters, Inc.” He subsequently worked on future Pixar classics like “The Incredibles,” “Ratatouille,” “Wall•E” and “Up,” before serving as Character Art Director for “Toy Story 3.” After a stint at Walt Disney Animation working on “Prep and Landing 2” and “Wreck-It Ralph,...
- 8/21/2023
- by Drew Taylor
- The Wrap
Sometimes, the people who make the biggest difference aren’t the ones who grab the spotlight. In “Snoopy Presents: One-of-a-Kind Marcie,” we get to see firsthand how our lovable introvert, Marcie, makes a monumental difference from behind the scenes for both her friends and her community. To train for the school golf championship, Marcie assists Peppermint Patty as her caddie, offering thoughtful and deliberate advice to help her win. Meanwhile, after coming up with brilliant solutions to her classmates’ problems – from hallway traffic jams to lunchtime pizza shortages – Marcie is unexpectedly elected as class president … a role she never wanted.
Suddenly thrust into the spotlight, Marcie struggles to cope with the expectations of her new job and retreats as far from the public eye as possible. As the golf championship begins, Marcie is still in hiding and Peppermint Patty is forced to tee off with Charlie Brown filling in as her caddie.
Suddenly thrust into the spotlight, Marcie struggles to cope with the expectations of her new job and retreats as far from the public eye as possible. As the golf championship begins, Marcie is still in hiding and Peppermint Patty is forced to tee off with Charlie Brown filling in as her caddie.
- 8/2/2023
- by Movies Martin Cid Magazine
- Martin Cid Magazine - Movies
Peppermint Patty’s Bff Marcie will be front and center in the new Apple TV+ Peanuts special, Snoopy Presents: One-of-a-Kind Marcie. Shy and intelligent, Marcie first appeared in Charles M. Schulz’s Peanuts comic strip on July 20, 1971. The upcoming Snoopy Presents production, which just released a trailer and poster, marks the first time the character’s been the focus of an animated special.
The official Peanuts website offers this quote about Marcie from creator Charles M. Schultz: “Marcie is one-up on Peppermint Patty in every way. She sees the truth of things, where it invariably escapes Patty. I like Marcie.”
Emmy Award winner Raymond S. Persi directs the family-friendly special from a screenplay by Betsy Walters. Craig Schulz, Bryan Schulz, Cornelius Uliano, Paige Braddock, Josh Scherba, Stephanie Betts, and Logan McPherson executive produce.
Snoopy Presents: One-of-a-Kind Marcie premieres on Apple TV+ on August 18, 2023.
The Plot, Courtesy of Apple TV+
Sometimes...
The official Peanuts website offers this quote about Marcie from creator Charles M. Schultz: “Marcie is one-up on Peppermint Patty in every way. She sees the truth of things, where it invariably escapes Patty. I like Marcie.”
Emmy Award winner Raymond S. Persi directs the family-friendly special from a screenplay by Betsy Walters. Craig Schulz, Bryan Schulz, Cornelius Uliano, Paige Braddock, Josh Scherba, Stephanie Betts, and Logan McPherson executive produce.
Snoopy Presents: One-of-a-Kind Marcie premieres on Apple TV+ on August 18, 2023.
The Plot, Courtesy of Apple TV+
Sometimes...
- 8/2/2023
- by Rebecca Murray
- Showbiz Junkies
Who’s ready to feel old? School of Rock is celebrating its twentieth anniversary this September with the School of Rock 20th Anniversary Steelbook Blu-ray! Paramount Home Entertainment is pulling out all the stops for this glorious presentation, packing the release with more raised horns than a sold-out Metallica concert at Madison Square Garden!
Initially released in October 2003, Richard Linklater directs School of Rock from a script by Mike White. Jack Black stars in this heartfelt, laugh-out-loud comedy with Joan Cusack, Sarah Silverman, Mike White, Miranda Cosgrove, Rivkah Reyes, and more!
In School of Rock, Black’s struggling musician character, Dewey Finn, poses as a substitute teacher at a prestigious school where he convinces his students to form a rock band for an upcoming Battle of the Bands. Finn doesn’t take long to forge an unbreakable bond with the kids, as their love for rock and roll leads to...
Initially released in October 2003, Richard Linklater directs School of Rock from a script by Mike White. Jack Black stars in this heartfelt, laugh-out-loud comedy with Joan Cusack, Sarah Silverman, Mike White, Miranda Cosgrove, Rivkah Reyes, and more!
In School of Rock, Black’s struggling musician character, Dewey Finn, poses as a substitute teacher at a prestigious school where he convinces his students to form a rock band for an upcoming Battle of the Bands. Finn doesn’t take long to forge an unbreakable bond with the kids, as their love for rock and roll leads to...
- 7/31/2023
- by Steve Seigh
- JoBlo.com
Amplify Pictures, the independent television studio behind HBO’s Emmy-winning “100 Foot Wave,” has made a pair of hires. It has tapped Rachel Eggebeen as its chief content officer and Colin King Miller as its chief operating officer. The veteran executives will take founding partnership roles alongside Amplify Pictures CEO Joe Lewis.
“It’s a time of expansion,” Lewis told Variety in an interview. “We’re growing our team and becoming more global.”
At the same time, Amplify has sold a minority stake to Great Mountain Partners. It is understood that the deal values Amplify at $50 million. The funding will be used to back more production of original series of both the unscripted and scripted variety. Great Mountain Partners previous investments include the Oscar-winning film studio A24, branded content producer Rise Studios and the Vuelta Group, a European film studio.
“Amplify Pictures is one of those opportunities where the combination...
“It’s a time of expansion,” Lewis told Variety in an interview. “We’re growing our team and becoming more global.”
At the same time, Amplify has sold a minority stake to Great Mountain Partners. It is understood that the deal values Amplify at $50 million. The funding will be used to back more production of original series of both the unscripted and scripted variety. Great Mountain Partners previous investments include the Oscar-winning film studio A24, branded content producer Rise Studios and the Vuelta Group, a European film studio.
“Amplify Pictures is one of those opportunities where the combination...
- 7/6/2023
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Deadline’s Most Valuable Blockbuster tournament took a hiatus during the pandemic as movie theaters closed for the majority of 2020-2021 and theatrical day-and-date titles on both the big screen and studios’ respective streaming platforms became more prevalent. Coming back from that brink, the studios have largely returned to their theatrical release models and the downstream monies they can bring. Not to mention their power in launching IPs around the world with big global marketing campaigns. When it comes to evaluating the financial performance of top movies, it isn’t about what a film grosses at the box office. The true tale is told when production budgets, P&a, talent participations and other costs collide with box office grosses, and ancillary revenues from VOD to DVD and TV. To get close to that mysterious end of the equation, Deadline is repeating our Most Valuable Blockbuster tournament for 2022, using data culled by seasoned and trusted sources.
- 4/14/2023
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Calling the success of “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” a testament to video-game IP would be a disservice to Illumination and Nintendo. Universal confirmed that it grossed $454 million worldwide in its first week and the Mario movie achieved something that even HBO’s “The Last of Us” did not: It’s a four-quadrant success.
A ton of kids turned out, sure, and it didn’t hurt that the last family movie in theaters was months ago with “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.” However, as IndieWire reported last weekend, 84 percent of the film’s audience was above the age of 13. It’s a rare movie that attracts both kid-friendly crowds and nostalgic adults, that played for all genders and ethnicities, and performed strongly across international markets, and that made it the biggest worldwide animated opening of all time.
Success like that inevitably sets off a frenzy of aspiring copycats, but...
A ton of kids turned out, sure, and it didn’t hurt that the last family movie in theaters was months ago with “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.” However, as IndieWire reported last weekend, 84 percent of the film’s audience was above the age of 13. It’s a rare movie that attracts both kid-friendly crowds and nostalgic adults, that played for all genders and ethnicities, and performed strongly across international markets, and that made it the biggest worldwide animated opening of all time.
Success like that inevitably sets off a frenzy of aspiring copycats, but...
- 4/13/2023
- by Brian Welk
- Indiewire
Women have broken into many acting, producing, and directorial ventures in the recent past — think Reese Witherspoon’s Hello Sunshine and those at her company — the animated film sector continues to have a pretty thick glass ceiling. That’s especially true at Disney and its adjacent companies, where only three women have directed feature-length animated movies.
That said, a few women have begun cracking the ceiling and forging paths. As they go, they’re creating storylines and beloved characters that put more women at the forefront. The proof speaks for itself: Women-directed animated projects at Disney have generated some of the biggest box office numbers.
Jennifer Lee co-directed Disney’s ‘Frozen’ and its sequel Jennifer Lee at Disney’s ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ premiere on Feb. 26, 2018 | by Christopher Polk/Getty Images
The first woman-directed film from Walt Disney Animation Studios is perhaps the most famous animated movie from the media powerhouse.
That said, a few women have begun cracking the ceiling and forging paths. As they go, they’re creating storylines and beloved characters that put more women at the forefront. The proof speaks for itself: Women-directed animated projects at Disney have generated some of the biggest box office numbers.
Jennifer Lee co-directed Disney’s ‘Frozen’ and its sequel Jennifer Lee at Disney’s ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ premiere on Feb. 26, 2018 | by Christopher Polk/Getty Images
The first woman-directed film from Walt Disney Animation Studios is perhaps the most famous animated movie from the media powerhouse.
- 4/8/2023
- by Nikelle Murphy
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Sarah Silverman is a trailblazer in the world of stand-up comedy. For over 30 years, she has been pushing the boundaries of comedy and challenging the conventions of traditional humor. Sarah’s unique style of comedy mixes comedy with social commentary, and her willingness to tackle challenging topics has made her an icon in the stand-up comedy world.
Sarah Silverman. Depostiphotos
The Sarah Silverman approach to comedy doesn’t shy away from profanity, but it is also sharp and witty. She often uses her experiences as a woman and a minority to deconstruct social constructs and push her audience to think more critically about their beliefs and assumptions. Her audience is diverse, often filled with young people from various backgrounds who appreciate her wit and honest reflections on the world.
Sarah’s also known for her contributions to television and film. With her critically acclaimed show “The Sarah Silverman Program,” she...
Sarah Silverman. Depostiphotos
The Sarah Silverman approach to comedy doesn’t shy away from profanity, but it is also sharp and witty. She often uses her experiences as a woman and a minority to deconstruct social constructs and push her audience to think more critically about their beliefs and assumptions. Her audience is diverse, often filled with young people from various backgrounds who appreciate her wit and honest reflections on the world.
Sarah’s also known for her contributions to television and film. With her critically acclaimed show “The Sarah Silverman Program,” she...
- 4/6/2023
- by Martin Cid Magazine
- Martin Cid Magazine - Movies
Video game film adaptations haven’t always been smooth sailing, but with Illumination Entertainment’s work on the Super Mario Bros. Movie, the iconic franchise appears ready to receive a rejuvenation in the world of cinema. It’s taken a long time to get to this point, with Nintendo becoming very guarded over the rights to their properties and characters. It’s also become a difficult part of being a Nintendo fan: knowing that many of these beloved titles may never get adapted into a big screen spectacle.
But why is it that so few productions have come from the Japanese console and game company? And what does the future look like after that tumultuous journey? As with many things regarding Nintendo, it all comes back to Mario…
The Failure of Super Mario Bros. (1993)
To truly look at Nintendo’s time in the moviemaking biz it’s important to go...
But why is it that so few productions have come from the Japanese console and game company? And what does the future look like after that tumultuous journey? As with many things regarding Nintendo, it all comes back to Mario…
The Failure of Super Mario Bros. (1993)
To truly look at Nintendo’s time in the moviemaking biz it’s important to go...
- 4/6/2023
- by David Crow
- Den of Geek
Like a virus that keeps coming back but growing weaker each time, “Children of the Corn” is now a horror movie that lacks the strength to infect you with even a speck of fear. The original strain of the virus was Stephen King’s short story — published in 1977, at the heart of his shivery heyday. The tale of a group of Nebraska farm-town children who worship a demon that lives in the local cornfields, it was like a slasher version of “Lord of the Flies,” with a touch of the creepiness of “The Wicker Man.” The kids killed the adults around them, but the scariest thing about them is that they’d become a cult. The cornfield demon, known as He Who Walks Behind the Rows, was less a monster than a force, one that spoke to gathering forces in our society — impulses of religious zealotry and intolerance that were...
- 2/28/2023
- by Owen Gleiberman
- Variety Film + TV
Oscar frontrunner “Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio” won a leading five races at the Annie Awards on Feb. 25, including Best Studio Animated Feature over three of its Oscar rivals — “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish,” “The Sea Beast” and “Turning Red” — plus “Wendell & Wild.” The fifth Oscar contender, “Marcel the Shell With Shoes On,” won Best Independent Feature nominees over “Charlotte,” “Inu-Oh,” “Little Nicholas” and “My Father’s Dragon.”
“Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio” went five for nine with wins also for director, character work, production design and original score. “Marcel the Shell With Shoes On” won three of its four bids including writing and voice acting (Jenny Slate). And “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish” went two for six with wins for editorial and storyboarding.
Two of the five Oscar nominees for Best Animated Short also featured at these awards. Frontrunner “The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse” won...
“Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio” went five for nine with wins also for director, character work, production design and original score. “Marcel the Shell With Shoes On” won three of its four bids including writing and voice acting (Jenny Slate). And “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish” went two for six with wins for editorial and storyboarding.
Two of the five Oscar nominees for Best Animated Short also featured at these awards. Frontrunner “The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse” won...
- 2/26/2023
- by Paul Sheehan
- Gold Derby
Joseph Gordon-Levitt is an American actor, filmmaker and musician known for his roles in numerous popular films. He made his acting debut as a child in the television sitcom 3rd Rock from the Sun (1996–2001) and rose to fame as an adult in movies such as 10 Things I Hate About You (1999), The Lookout (2007), 500 Days of Summer (2009) and Inception (2010). He also starred in 50/50 (2011) and The Dark Knight Rises (2012).
Joseph Gordon-Levitt. Depositphotos
In addition to being an accomplished actor, Joseph Gordon-Levitt is also a successful director and producer. He founded HitRecord, an online collaborative production company which has produced multiple award-winning short films. His directorial debut, Don Jon, was released in 2013 to critical acclaim. In 2014, he starred in Sin City: A Dame To Kill For and earned a Golden Globe nomination for Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy for his role as Edward Snowden...
Joseph Gordon-Levitt. Depositphotos
In addition to being an accomplished actor, Joseph Gordon-Levitt is also a successful director and producer. He founded HitRecord, an online collaborative production company which has produced multiple award-winning short films. His directorial debut, Don Jon, was released in 2013 to critical acclaim. In 2014, he starred in Sin City: A Dame To Kill For and earned a Golden Globe nomination for Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy for his role as Edward Snowden...
- 2/23/2023
- by Movies Martin Cid Magazine
- Martin Cid Magazine - Movies
Not surprisingly, our five leading contenders for Best Animated Feature at the Oscars also top the Annie Awards nominations announced on January 17. Our predicted winner of that Oscar race, “Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio,” reaped a leading nine nominations here. “Turning Red” earned a luck seven, “Puss in Boot: The Last Wish” and “The Sea Beast” merited a half dozen mentions each and “Wendell & Wild” has three. All five number a nomination for Best Studio Animated Feature among their haul.
The Best Independent Feature nominees are: “Charlotte,” “Inu-Oh,” “Little Nicholas,” “Marcel the Shell with Shoes On” and “My Father’s Dragon.”
These precursor prizes are presented by the Hollywood chapter of the International Animated Film Association. The ceremony is set for February 25.
Seven of the last 12 Annie Awards champs have previewed the Oscar winner: “Rango” (2012), “Frozen” (2014), “Inside Out” (2016), “Zootopia” (2017), “Coco” (2018), “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” (2019) and “Soul” (2021).
Last year, the Annies...
The Best Independent Feature nominees are: “Charlotte,” “Inu-Oh,” “Little Nicholas,” “Marcel the Shell with Shoes On” and “My Father’s Dragon.”
These precursor prizes are presented by the Hollywood chapter of the International Animated Film Association. The ceremony is set for February 25.
Seven of the last 12 Annie Awards champs have previewed the Oscar winner: “Rango” (2012), “Frozen” (2014), “Inside Out” (2016), “Zootopia” (2017), “Coco” (2018), “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” (2019) and “Soul” (2021).
Last year, the Annies...
- 1/17/2023
- by Paul Sheehan
- Gold Derby
A live-action adaptation of "The Last of Us" has been in the works pretty much since the first game came out, with Sam Raimi attached to direct a movie back in 2014 for Screen Gems. When a new attempt at an adaptation was announced -- a TV show created by "Chernobyl" writer Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann, the writer and co-director of the original game -- it immediately became hugely anticipated.
Thankfully, the hype was not misplaced. "The Last of Us" follows a man smuggling a girl across a post-apocalyptic U.S.A., with a plan that may bring hope to a world that has long since lost sight of it, after a zombie apocalypse destroyed civilization.
This is a spectacular show, and a particular achievement among video game adaptations. It features stunning performances from Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey, who instantly embody the characters of Joel and Ellie and make them their own,...
Thankfully, the hype was not misplaced. "The Last of Us" follows a man smuggling a girl across a post-apocalyptic U.S.A., with a plan that may bring hope to a world that has long since lost sight of it, after a zombie apocalypse destroyed civilization.
This is a spectacular show, and a particular achievement among video game adaptations. It features stunning performances from Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey, who instantly embody the characters of Joel and Ellie and make them their own,...
- 1/17/2023
- by Rafael Motamayor
- Slash Film
Ralph Breaks the Internet is a 2018 film produced by Disney intended to be a sequel to the first Wreck-It Ralph movie. Hence, it was also called as Wreck-It Ralph 2. The film follows the story of the tandem Ralph and Vanellope as they try to purchase a steering wheel to save Sugar Rush, Vanellope’s home game. However, it was not easy as the characters experienced wild happenings on the Internet and some insecurities they had to suppress. Before the Internet Ralph and Vanellope were doing fine as friends inside Litwak’s Arcade systems. However, Vanellope’s enthusiastic and outgoing
Movie Recap: Ralph Breaks The Internet...
Movie Recap: Ralph Breaks The Internet...
- 1/15/2023
- by Aron Paul
- TVovermind.com
To begin with a personal anecdote:
From 2000 to 2003, this author worked as an intern for New Concorde, a.k.a. Concorde New Horizons, Roger Corman's production company. As an intern, most of my duties involved going into oil-scented basement rooms to find physical advertising assets for long-forgotten "Emmanuelle" sequels and early Ron Howard pictures. I also had the privilege of reading a myriad of scripts, as many B-movie hopefuls would mail drafts to the known lord of the format. After several years, I was finally offered a job. I was to be paid a very modest amount to work as a production assistant on a Stacy Keach war movie called "When Eagles Strike," directed by Cirio H. Santiago. While the exteriors were filmed in the Philippines, the indoor scenes were filmed in a tiny studio just off of Melrose Blvd. in Hollywood, CA. The studio was made up to...
From 2000 to 2003, this author worked as an intern for New Concorde, a.k.a. Concorde New Horizons, Roger Corman's production company. As an intern, most of my duties involved going into oil-scented basement rooms to find physical advertising assets for long-forgotten "Emmanuelle" sequels and early Ron Howard pictures. I also had the privilege of reading a myriad of scripts, as many B-movie hopefuls would mail drafts to the known lord of the format. After several years, I was finally offered a job. I was to be paid a very modest amount to work as a production assistant on a Stacy Keach war movie called "When Eagles Strike," directed by Cirio H. Santiago. While the exteriors were filmed in the Philippines, the indoor scenes were filmed in a tiny studio just off of Melrose Blvd. in Hollywood, CA. The studio was made up to...
- 1/4/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Disney Animation has not had a good year. The studio has followed disappointing box office for last summer’s “Toy Story” spinoff “Lightyear” with the big-screen bomb “Strange World” that is projected by analysts to cost the studio 100 million-plus as one of Disney’s biggest failures ever.
The flop is so big that it is on par with another historic bomb that the studio released on Thanksgiving weekend two decades ago: “Treasure Planet,” the most prominent in a string of theatrical busts that helped lead to the ouster of then-ceo Michael Eisner and paved the way for the rise of Bob Iger, who is now returning to take charge of Disney after the brief, tumultuous reign of Bob Chapek. Unlike Eisner and “Treasure Planet,” “Strange World” doesn’t entirely fall on Chapek’s shoulders. (The new film had been in development under Disney Animation head Jennifer Lee prior to Chapek’s rise as CEO.
The flop is so big that it is on par with another historic bomb that the studio released on Thanksgiving weekend two decades ago: “Treasure Planet,” the most prominent in a string of theatrical busts that helped lead to the ouster of then-ceo Michael Eisner and paved the way for the rise of Bob Iger, who is now returning to take charge of Disney after the brief, tumultuous reign of Bob Chapek. Unlike Eisner and “Treasure Planet,” “Strange World” doesn’t entirely fall on Chapek’s shoulders. (The new film had been in development under Disney Animation head Jennifer Lee prior to Chapek’s rise as CEO.
- 11/28/2022
- by Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
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