Andrew Garfield and Claire Foy are to reunite to star in the adaptation of Enid Blyton’s ‘The Magic Faraway Tree’.
Based on The Faraway Tree series of novels for children, the project follows Polly and Tim and their children Beth, Joe and Fran – a modern family who find themselves forced to relocate to the remote English countryside.
Soon after the family arrives in the countryside, the children discover a magical tree and its extraordinary and eccentric residents including treasured characters Moonface, Silky, Dame Washalot and Saucepan Man. At the top of the tree, they are transported to spectacular and fantastical lands and, through the joys and challenges of their adventures, the family learn to reconnect and value each other for the first time in years.
Garfield will play Tim while Foy takes on the role of Polly. The pair have previously starred together in Andy Serkis’ 2017 offering ‘Breath’.
Also...
Based on The Faraway Tree series of novels for children, the project follows Polly and Tim and their children Beth, Joe and Fran – a modern family who find themselves forced to relocate to the remote English countryside.
Soon after the family arrives in the countryside, the children discover a magical tree and its extraordinary and eccentric residents including treasured characters Moonface, Silky, Dame Washalot and Saucepan Man. At the top of the tree, they are transported to spectacular and fantastical lands and, through the joys and challenges of their adventures, the family learn to reconnect and value each other for the first time in years.
Garfield will play Tim while Foy takes on the role of Polly. The pair have previously starred together in Andy Serkis’ 2017 offering ‘Breath’.
Also...
- 5/3/2024
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Enid Blyton adaptation The Magic Faraway Tree has found key cast in the shape of two-time Oscar nominee Andrew Garfield (The Amazing Spider Man) and two-time Emmy winner Claire Foy (All of Us Strangers).
Neal Street Productions, Elysian Film Group and Ashland Hill Media Finance are behind the movie which is being adapted by BAFTA-winner Simon Farnaby (Paddington 2) and will be directed by Ben Gregor (Britannia).
Based on The Faraway Tree series of novels for children, the feature will follow Polly and Tim and their children Beth, Joe and Fran – a modern family who find themselves forced to relocate to the remote English countryside. Garfield will play Tim and Foy will take on the role of Polly.
Soon after the family’s arrival in the countryside, the children discover a magical tree and its extraordinary and eccentric residents including treasured characters Moonface, Silky, Dame Washalot and Saucepan Man. At the top of the tree,...
Neal Street Productions, Elysian Film Group and Ashland Hill Media Finance are behind the movie which is being adapted by BAFTA-winner Simon Farnaby (Paddington 2) and will be directed by Ben Gregor (Britannia).
Based on The Faraway Tree series of novels for children, the feature will follow Polly and Tim and their children Beth, Joe and Fran – a modern family who find themselves forced to relocate to the remote English countryside. Garfield will play Tim and Foy will take on the role of Polly.
Soon after the family’s arrival in the countryside, the children discover a magical tree and its extraordinary and eccentric residents including treasured characters Moonface, Silky, Dame Washalot and Saucepan Man. At the top of the tree,...
- 5/3/2024
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Andrew Garfield and Claire Foy will lead the film adaptation of Enid Blyton’s children’s classic The Magic Faraway Tree.
The story from the author, based on her The Faraway Tree series of novels for children, follows Polly and Tim and their children Beth, Joe and Fran — a modern family who find themselves forced to relocate to the remote English countryside.
Two-time Academy Award-nominee Andrew Garfield (Tick, Tick…Boom!, Hacksaw Ridge) will play Tim and two-time Emmy Award-winner Claire Foy (All of Us Strangers, The Crown) will take on the role of Polly.
Neal Street Productions, Elysian Film Group, and Ashland Hill Media Finance will produce, with principal photography to begin in June 2024 and additional casting currently underway.
Screenwriter Simon Farnaby, British star of Wonka and Paddington 2, said: “To have two actors of the quality of Andrew Garfield and Claire Foy is a dream for any screenwriter.”
“I have long admired their warmth,...
The story from the author, based on her The Faraway Tree series of novels for children, follows Polly and Tim and their children Beth, Joe and Fran — a modern family who find themselves forced to relocate to the remote English countryside.
Two-time Academy Award-nominee Andrew Garfield (Tick, Tick…Boom!, Hacksaw Ridge) will play Tim and two-time Emmy Award-winner Claire Foy (All of Us Strangers, The Crown) will take on the role of Polly.
Neal Street Productions, Elysian Film Group, and Ashland Hill Media Finance will produce, with principal photography to begin in June 2024 and additional casting currently underway.
Screenwriter Simon Farnaby, British star of Wonka and Paddington 2, said: “To have two actors of the quality of Andrew Garfield and Claire Foy is a dream for any screenwriter.”
“I have long admired their warmth,...
- 5/3/2024
- by Lily Ford
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Andrew Garfield and Claire Foy have joined the cast of magical family adventure feature “The Magic Faraway Tree,” based on Enid Blyton’s beloved children’s classic.
The film — from Neal Street Productions, Elysian Film Group and Ashland Hill Media Finance — has been adapted by BAFTA winner Simon Farnaby (“Wonka” and “Paddington 2”) and will be directed by Ben Gregor. Palisades Park Pictures are handling sales in Cannes. Principal photography will begin in June, with additional casting currently underway.
Based on “The Faraway Tree” series of novels for children, “The Magic Faraway Tree” follows Polly (Foy) and Tim (Garfield) and their children Beth, Joe and Fran — a modern family who find themselves forced to relocate to the remote English countryside. Soon after the family’s arrival in the countryside, the children discover a magical tree and its extraordinary and eccentric residents including treasured characters Moonface, Silky, Dame Washalot and Saucepan Man.
The film — from Neal Street Productions, Elysian Film Group and Ashland Hill Media Finance — has been adapted by BAFTA winner Simon Farnaby (“Wonka” and “Paddington 2”) and will be directed by Ben Gregor. Palisades Park Pictures are handling sales in Cannes. Principal photography will begin in June, with additional casting currently underway.
Based on “The Faraway Tree” series of novels for children, “The Magic Faraway Tree” follows Polly (Foy) and Tim (Garfield) and their children Beth, Joe and Fran — a modern family who find themselves forced to relocate to the remote English countryside. Soon after the family’s arrival in the countryside, the children discover a magical tree and its extraordinary and eccentric residents including treasured characters Moonface, Silky, Dame Washalot and Saucepan Man.
- 5/3/2024
- by Alex Ritman
- Variety Film + TV
Andrew Garfield and Claire Foy will lead the adaptation of Enid Blyton’s children’s book The Magic Faraway Tree, with principal photography to begin in June.
The film is produced by Pippa Harris for Neal Street Productions, with Danny Perkins of Elysian Film Group and Jane Hooks. Executive producers are Ashland Hill Media Finance’s Simon Williams, Joe Simpson and Jonathan Bross, and Palisade Park Pictures’ Tamara Birkemoe.
Ben Gregor is directing from a script by Wonka and Paddington 2 writer Simon Farnaby. The Magic Faraway Tree is based on Blyton’s The Faraway Tree novel series. It follows a...
The film is produced by Pippa Harris for Neal Street Productions, with Danny Perkins of Elysian Film Group and Jane Hooks. Executive producers are Ashland Hill Media Finance’s Simon Williams, Joe Simpson and Jonathan Bross, and Palisade Park Pictures’ Tamara Birkemoe.
Ben Gregor is directing from a script by Wonka and Paddington 2 writer Simon Farnaby. The Magic Faraway Tree is based on Blyton’s The Faraway Tree novel series. It follows a...
- 5/3/2024
- ScreenDaily
U.S. and U.K.-based global sales outfit Palisades Park Pictures has revealed a star-studded slate for Hong Kong’s film rights market FilMart.
John Travolta, Katherine Heigl and Christopher Walken lead romantic comedy “That’s Amore!,” which is in pre-production. Written and directed by “Green Book” writer Nick Vallelonga, the film follows two emotionally damaged people who attempt to date one another, and when their families get involved, comedy ensues.
The producers are Vallelonga (Vallelonga Prods.), Cassian Elwes (Elevated Films), Brenda Emmett and Vince Emmett (American Troubadours), David Polemeni; Tamara Birkemoe and Mark Damon, for Palisades Park Pictures, serve as executive producers.
Director Phillip Noyce has completed action-thriller “Fast Charlie,” starring Pierce Brosnan, Morena Baccarin and James Caan, and adapted from Victor Gischler’s novel “Gun Monkeys” by Richard Wenk (“The Equalizer”).
Brosnan plays Charlie Swift, a hitman who has been working for his aging mob boss, Stan (Caan), for two decades.
John Travolta, Katherine Heigl and Christopher Walken lead romantic comedy “That’s Amore!,” which is in pre-production. Written and directed by “Green Book” writer Nick Vallelonga, the film follows two emotionally damaged people who attempt to date one another, and when their families get involved, comedy ensues.
The producers are Vallelonga (Vallelonga Prods.), Cassian Elwes (Elevated Films), Brenda Emmett and Vince Emmett (American Troubadours), David Polemeni; Tamara Birkemoe and Mark Damon, for Palisades Park Pictures, serve as executive producers.
Director Phillip Noyce has completed action-thriller “Fast Charlie,” starring Pierce Brosnan, Morena Baccarin and James Caan, and adapted from Victor Gischler’s novel “Gun Monkeys” by Richard Wenk (“The Equalizer”).
Brosnan plays Charlie Swift, a hitman who has been working for his aging mob boss, Stan (Caan), for two decades.
- 3/11/2024
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
The Beatles will be the subjects of four brand new movies!
It was just revealed on Tuesday (February 20) that Empire of Light and Skyfall director Sam Mendes will helm separate movies about each member of the band, Variety reports.
Keep reading to find out more…
Each movie is set to focus on the four members – Paul McCartney, John Lennon, Ringo Starr and George Harrison, while also intersecting with each other, to “tell the astonishing story of the greatest band in history,” leading to the 1970 breakup.
“I’m honored to be telling the story of the greatest rock band of all time, and excited to challenge the notion of what constitutes a trip to the movies,” director Sam Mendes shared in a statement.
Sony is set to finance and release the four movies, which will all be released in 2027, in an “innovative and groundbreaking” release strategy.
“We intend this to be a uniquely thrilling,...
It was just revealed on Tuesday (February 20) that Empire of Light and Skyfall director Sam Mendes will helm separate movies about each member of the band, Variety reports.
Keep reading to find out more…
Each movie is set to focus on the four members – Paul McCartney, John Lennon, Ringo Starr and George Harrison, while also intersecting with each other, to “tell the astonishing story of the greatest band in history,” leading to the 1970 breakup.
“I’m honored to be telling the story of the greatest rock band of all time, and excited to challenge the notion of what constitutes a trip to the movies,” director Sam Mendes shared in a statement.
Sony is set to finance and release the four movies, which will all be released in 2027, in an “innovative and groundbreaking” release strategy.
“We intend this to be a uniquely thrilling,...
- 2/20/2024
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
“American Beauty” Oscar winner and “Skyfall” director Sam Mendes is taking on the most ambitious project of his career thus far. The “1917” filmmaker is setting up a quartet of Beatles biopics with Sony Pictures Entertainment, Deadline first reported.
The project will feature four theatrically released films, with one told from each member of the Fab Four’s point of view. It will be the first time the Beatles’ company, Apple Corps Ltd., and the members of the Beatles or their estates have granted full life and music rights for a scripted film, according to Deadline.
Mendes will direct all four interconnected films, which are slated for a 2027 release. Writers are in the process of being hired, and a release schedule will be announced at a later date. Mendes will produce through his Neal Street Productions banner alongside his partner Pippa Harris and Julie Pastor. Jeff Jones will executive produce for Apple Corps Ltd.
The project will feature four theatrically released films, with one told from each member of the Fab Four’s point of view. It will be the first time the Beatles’ company, Apple Corps Ltd., and the members of the Beatles or their estates have granted full life and music rights for a scripted film, according to Deadline.
Mendes will direct all four interconnected films, which are slated for a 2027 release. Writers are in the process of being hired, and a release schedule will be announced at a later date. Mendes will produce through his Neal Street Productions banner alongside his partner Pippa Harris and Julie Pastor. Jeff Jones will executive produce for Apple Corps Ltd.
- 2/20/2024
- by Liam Mathews
- Gold Derby
Sam Mendes has been given the mammoth task of tackling four separate documentaries on each legendary member of The Beatles.
Sony Pictures Entertainment (Spe), Sam Mendes, and Neal Street Productions announced a groundbreaking creative endeavour to tell the story of The Beatles with four distinct theatrical feature films. The project marks the first time Apple Corps Ltd. and The Beatles – Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and the families of John Lennon and George Harrison – have granted full life story and music rights for a scripted film.
Conceived by Mendes, who will direct, the four theatrical feature films – one from each band member’s point-of-view – will intersect to tell the astonishing story of the greatest band in history.
Also in news – Gerard Butler & Morena Baccarin return for sequel ‘Greenland: Migration’
The dating cadence of the films, the details of which will be shared closer to release, will be innovative and groundbreaking. Mendes...
Sony Pictures Entertainment (Spe), Sam Mendes, and Neal Street Productions announced a groundbreaking creative endeavour to tell the story of The Beatles with four distinct theatrical feature films. The project marks the first time Apple Corps Ltd. and The Beatles – Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and the families of John Lennon and George Harrison – have granted full life story and music rights for a scripted film.
Conceived by Mendes, who will direct, the four theatrical feature films – one from each band member’s point-of-view – will intersect to tell the astonishing story of the greatest band in history.
Also in news – Gerard Butler & Morena Baccarin return for sequel ‘Greenland: Migration’
The dating cadence of the films, the details of which will be shared closer to release, will be innovative and groundbreaking. Mendes...
- 2/20/2024
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
The thing about The Beatles is, they weren’t just the best band in the world. It’s that they were several different types of best-band-ever over the course of seven short years – first jangly mop-top chart-toppers, then harder-edged rock ’n’ rollers, then psychedelic superstars, with additional detours into folk-rock and more along the way. So the question is this: how do make a biopic movie about The Beatles? The answer is, that you make several Beatles biopics at once. That’s exactly the approach set to be taken by Sam Mendes – the Skyfall director is planning to make not one but four intersecting Beatles biopics, one following the perspective of each member, and all due in cinemas in 2027. We expect he’ll be working eight days a week to make it all happen.
The news was confirmed in a press release from Sony Pictures, who’ll be producing the...
The news was confirmed in a press release from Sony Pictures, who’ll be producing the...
- 2/20/2024
- by Ben Travis
- Empire - Movies
When it comes to arguably the biggest acts in rock music history, how does one go about making a film adaptation that lives up to the legend? The King of Rock ‘N’ Roll, Elvis Presley, would get his own flashy, epic treatment courtesy of Baz Luhrmann’s visual flair in 2022. But for a band like The Beatles, how do you truly capture the journey in a feature film? Director Sam Mendes has the answer. You do four feature films. Deadline has the breaking story that the Skyfall, Spectre and American Beauty director will audaciously attempt to cover the story of The Beatles with four films, which will each concentrate on a member of the band.
Mendes’ vision involves having each movie tell the story from each Beatle’s point of view and will interconnect with the other films. The 1917 director conceived of this grand idea and had pitched it to Hollywood,...
Mendes’ vision involves having each movie tell the story from each Beatle’s point of view and will interconnect with the other films. The 1917 director conceived of this grand idea and had pitched it to Hollywood,...
- 2/20/2024
- by EJ Tangonan
- JoBlo.com
The Beatles are going solo all over again. Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, George Harrison, and John Lennon will each be the subject of their own solo films directed by Sam Mendes, who is taking a microscopic approach to the usually overarching music biopic narrative. The films, according to a statement from Sony Pictures, will tell the story of the Beatles from each member’s point of view.
“I’m honored to be telling the story of the greatest rock band of all time, and excited to challenge the notion of...
“I’m honored to be telling the story of the greatest rock band of all time, and excited to challenge the notion of...
- 2/20/2024
- by Larisha Paul
- Rollingstone.com
Sam Mendes is to direct separate theatrical feature films about each member of iconic band The Beatles.
Sony Pictures Entertainment will finance and distribute the films with full theatrical windows in 2027.
Each fiction film will tell the band’s story from a different member’s point of view, with Apple Corps Ltd., Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and the families of John Lennon and George Harrison, granting story and music rights for a scripted film for the first time.
Mendes will also produce alongside his Neal Street Productions partner Pippa Harris and Neal Street’s Julie Pastor.
Harris said: “We intend...
Sony Pictures Entertainment will finance and distribute the films with full theatrical windows in 2027.
Each fiction film will tell the band’s story from a different member’s point of view, with Apple Corps Ltd., Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and the families of John Lennon and George Harrison, granting story and music rights for a scripted film for the first time.
Mendes will also produce alongside his Neal Street Productions partner Pippa Harris and Neal Street’s Julie Pastor.
Harris said: “We intend...
- 2/20/2024
- ScreenDaily
Like a chimera of any intelligent person’s least-favorite storytelling models, we are (in the sense of a diagnosis) finally seeing the cinematic universe intersect with musical biopics. And where to start but the very biggest? Today brings the rather momentous news that Sam Mendes will direct a four-film Beatles epic that tells their story from each member’s perspective, arriving in 2027 via “an innovative [and groundbreaking] release cadence.” If that seems an odd term for movies, you’re correct; I’ve only ever seen it used for software, which is to say: an engineered product.
Though let’s not be too cynical just yet. The Beatles’ Apple Corps Ltd. are fully behind the project, which guarantees more of their music than any narrative feature yet. Mendes has certain ill instincts but, per his Bond pictures, can be a great keep-the-trains-running-on-time craftsman who hires the right people––imagine the Ed Sullivan Show...
Though let’s not be too cynical just yet. The Beatles’ Apple Corps Ltd. are fully behind the project, which guarantees more of their music than any narrative feature yet. Mendes has certain ill instincts but, per his Bond pictures, can be a great keep-the-trains-running-on-time craftsman who hires the right people––imagine the Ed Sullivan Show...
- 2/20/2024
- by Leonard Pearce
- The Film Stage
For the first time, an official scripted biopic of The Beatles: in fact, four of them, all due in 2027 from director Sam Mendes.
A project that almost felt like a case of when, not if, there’s now an official feature film biopic of The Beatles on the way. Scrub that: they’ve gone all James Cameron.
There are four official biopics of The Beatles on the way.
In an idea taken to Apple Corps and Sony Pictures, Sam Mendes has hatched on the plan of making four films, one from each band member’s point of view. We’re thus getting Paul McCartney, John Lennon, Ringo Starr and George Harrison’s stories in individual films. McCartney and Starr have agreed full life story and music rights, and the families of Lennon and Harrison have done the same.
All four films look like they’re going to be released in 2027.
Sam Mendes,...
A project that almost felt like a case of when, not if, there’s now an official feature film biopic of The Beatles on the way. Scrub that: they’ve gone all James Cameron.
There are four official biopics of The Beatles on the way.
In an idea taken to Apple Corps and Sony Pictures, Sam Mendes has hatched on the plan of making four films, one from each band member’s point of view. We’re thus getting Paul McCartney, John Lennon, Ringo Starr and George Harrison’s stories in individual films. McCartney and Starr have agreed full life story and music rights, and the families of Lennon and Harrison have done the same.
All four films look like they’re going to be released in 2027.
Sam Mendes,...
- 2/20/2024
- by Simon Brew
- Film Stories
A quartet of Beatles biopics, one focusing on each member of the band, is currently in the works from director Sam Mendes, with the full approval and the musical rights of the band.
According to Deadline, Mendes will direct all four of the films, which will “tell interconnected stories, one from each band member’s point of view.” Sony Pictures has acquired the rights to the films and plans to release all of them in 2027.
Mendes will produce the films with his Neal Street Productions partner Pippa Harris, Neal Street’s Julie Pastor, and Jeff Jones, who serves as the CEO of The Beatles’ company Apple Corps Ltd.
“Apple Corps is delighted to collaborate with Sam, Pippa and Julie to explore each Beatle’s unique story and to bring them together in a suitably captivating and innovative way,” Jones said in a statement. “Sony Pictures’ enthusiastic support, championing the project...
According to Deadline, Mendes will direct all four of the films, which will “tell interconnected stories, one from each band member’s point of view.” Sony Pictures has acquired the rights to the films and plans to release all of them in 2027.
Mendes will produce the films with his Neal Street Productions partner Pippa Harris, Neal Street’s Julie Pastor, and Jeff Jones, who serves as the CEO of The Beatles’ company Apple Corps Ltd.
“Apple Corps is delighted to collaborate with Sam, Pippa and Julie to explore each Beatle’s unique story and to bring them together in a suitably captivating and innovative way,” Jones said in a statement. “Sony Pictures’ enthusiastic support, championing the project...
- 2/20/2024
- by Scoop Harrison
- Consequence - Film News
A quartet of Beatles biopics, one focusing on each member of the band, is currently in the works from director Sam Mendes, with the full approval and the musical rights of the band.
According to Deadline, Mendes will direct all four of the films, which will “tell interconnected stories, one from each band member’s point of view.” Sony Pictures has acquired the rights to the films and plans to release all of them in 2027.
Mendes will produce the films with his Neal Street Productions partner Pippa Harris, Neal Street’s Julie Pastor, and Jeff Jones, who serves as the CEO of The Beatles’ company Apple Corps Ltd.
“Apple Corps is delighted to collaborate with Sam, Pippa and Julie to explore each Beatle’s unique story and to bring them together in a suitably captivating and innovative way,” Jones said in a statement. “Sony Pictures’ enthusiastic support, championing the project...
According to Deadline, Mendes will direct all four of the films, which will “tell interconnected stories, one from each band member’s point of view.” Sony Pictures has acquired the rights to the films and plans to release all of them in 2027.
Mendes will produce the films with his Neal Street Productions partner Pippa Harris, Neal Street’s Julie Pastor, and Jeff Jones, who serves as the CEO of The Beatles’ company Apple Corps Ltd.
“Apple Corps is delighted to collaborate with Sam, Pippa and Julie to explore each Beatle’s unique story and to bring them together in a suitably captivating and innovative way,” Jones said in a statement. “Sony Pictures’ enthusiastic support, championing the project...
- 2/20/2024
- by Scoop Harrison
- Consequence - Music
Sam Mendes is going to have to work “Eight Days a Week” to pull this one off.
Backed by Sony, Mendes is going to make “four distinct theatrical feature films,” one from each member of the iconic band’s perspective, a February 20 press release reads. It is the first time that Apple Corps Ltd. and The Beatles — Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and the families of John Lennon and George Harrison — have granted full life story and music rights for a scripted film. (Note: Apple Corps is not Apple the gigantic iPhone maker. It is the name of the band’s conglomerate.)
Mendes will direct all four biopics, which promise to “intersect” with each other and “tell the astonishing story of the greatest band in history.”
Sony Pictures Entertainment will finance and distribute the films worldwide; each will have a “full theatrical window” in 2027. “The dating cadence of the films, the...
Backed by Sony, Mendes is going to make “four distinct theatrical feature films,” one from each member of the iconic band’s perspective, a February 20 press release reads. It is the first time that Apple Corps Ltd. and The Beatles — Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and the families of John Lennon and George Harrison — have granted full life story and music rights for a scripted film. (Note: Apple Corps is not Apple the gigantic iPhone maker. It is the name of the band’s conglomerate.)
Mendes will direct all four biopics, which promise to “intersect” with each other and “tell the astonishing story of the greatest band in history.”
Sony Pictures Entertainment will finance and distribute the films worldwide; each will have a “full theatrical window” in 2027. “The dating cadence of the films, the...
- 2/20/2024
- by Tony Maglio
- Indiewire
Sam Mendes has teamed with Sony Pictures Entertainment for The Beatles, four theatrical films about the British supergroup, each from the perspective of a different band member.
The project, coming more than 50 years after The Beatles broke up and 40 years after the death of John Lennon, will see Apple Corps (the company founded by the band members) and The Beatles — Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr and the families of Lennon and George Harrison — offer up each of the Fab Four’s full life stories and music rights for a scripted film. Mendes will direct the four theatrical feature films to recapture the story of the greatest band in history.
Music films have proven to be resilient at the box office. Paramount’s Bob Marley: One Love over-performed last week, while Taylor Swift’s $15 million concert film The Eras Tour outgrossed a number of Hollywood tentpoles, with $261 million globally last year. A...
The project, coming more than 50 years after The Beatles broke up and 40 years after the death of John Lennon, will see Apple Corps (the company founded by the band members) and The Beatles — Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr and the families of Lennon and George Harrison — offer up each of the Fab Four’s full life stories and music rights for a scripted film. Mendes will direct the four theatrical feature films to recapture the story of the greatest band in history.
Music films have proven to be resilient at the box office. Paramount’s Bob Marley: One Love over-performed last week, while Taylor Swift’s $15 million concert film The Eras Tour outgrossed a number of Hollywood tentpoles, with $261 million globally last year. A...
- 2/20/2024
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
John, Paul, George and Ringo will each be the subject of a different upcoming feature film.
Director Sam Mendes plans to make four separate movies, one from each Beatles member’s point of view. They will intersect to “tell the astonishing story of the greatest band in history,” leading up to their 1970 breakup, according to a press release. Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and the families of the late John Lennon and George Harrison have granted full life story and music rights for the scripted films.
“I’m honored to be telling the story of the greatest rock band of all time, and excited to challenge the notion of what constitutes a trip to the movies,” Mendes, the Oscar-nominated filmmaker of “American Beauty,” war drama “1917” and James Bond films “Skyfall” and “Spectre,” said in a statement.
Sony Pictures Entertainment will finance and distribute all four films theatrically in 2027. Details about...
Director Sam Mendes plans to make four separate movies, one from each Beatles member’s point of view. They will intersect to “tell the astonishing story of the greatest band in history,” leading up to their 1970 breakup, according to a press release. Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and the families of the late John Lennon and George Harrison have granted full life story and music rights for the scripted films.
“I’m honored to be telling the story of the greatest rock band of all time, and excited to challenge the notion of what constitutes a trip to the movies,” Mendes, the Oscar-nominated filmmaker of “American Beauty,” war drama “1917” and James Bond films “Skyfall” and “Spectre,” said in a statement.
Sony Pictures Entertainment will finance and distribute all four films theatrically in 2027. Details about...
- 2/20/2024
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: In a move that ought to make fans of The Beatles twist and shout, Sony Pictures Entertainment and Oscar-winning filmmaker Sam Mendes and his Neal Street Productions have set plans to make four separate theatrical films — one on each of the members of music’s most famous and enduring band.
Mendes will direct all four of the films, and this marks the first time Apple Corps Ltd. and The Beatles – Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr and the families of John Lennon and George Harrison – have granted full life story and music rights for a scripted film.
Mendes conceived this grand vision. He’ll tell interconnected stories, one from each band member’s point of view. The dating cadence of the films will be revealed closer to the films’ release. I’m told they are locking down writers quickly.
This is perhaps the most ambitious project Deadline has revealed exclusively since...
Mendes will direct all four of the films, and this marks the first time Apple Corps Ltd. and The Beatles – Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr and the families of John Lennon and George Harrison – have granted full life story and music rights for a scripted film.
Mendes conceived this grand vision. He’ll tell interconnected stories, one from each band member’s point of view. The dating cadence of the films will be revealed closer to the films’ release. I’m told they are locking down writers quickly.
This is perhaps the most ambitious project Deadline has revealed exclusively since...
- 2/20/2024
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: UK Director Ben Gregor says his upcoming adaptation of Enid Blyton’s The Magic Faraway Tree will tap into children’s post-pandemic anxiety and retreat into screens as it celebrates the joy of being outdoors in nature, in a subtext that will chime with parents worldwide.
Wonka and Paddington 2 actor and writer Simon Farnaby’s screenplay transposes Blyton’s 1943 classic – about the adventures of three children who discover a magic tree in an enchanted wood – to modern Britain.
The new version will revive the tree’s ragbag collection of characters such as Moonface, Saucepan Man, Dame Washalot, Silky, Angry Pixie and Mister Watzisname as well as the lands at the top of the tree including the Land of Goodies and the Land of Birthdays.
For its contemporary reboot, the three protagonists are uprooted from their hi-tech home in an ultra-modern London Nine Elms-Battersea Power Station-style development to a ramshackle...
Wonka and Paddington 2 actor and writer Simon Farnaby’s screenplay transposes Blyton’s 1943 classic – about the adventures of three children who discover a magic tree in an enchanted wood – to modern Britain.
The new version will revive the tree’s ragbag collection of characters such as Moonface, Saucepan Man, Dame Washalot, Silky, Angry Pixie and Mister Watzisname as well as the lands at the top of the tree including the Land of Goodies and the Land of Birthdays.
For its contemporary reboot, the three protagonists are uprooted from their hi-tech home in an ultra-modern London Nine Elms-Battersea Power Station-style development to a ramshackle...
- 2/16/2024
- by Melanie Goodfellow
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: The long-gestating modern-day movie adaptation of Enid Blyton’s children’s classic The Magic Faraway Tree has got fresh impetus with new financiers and creatives aboard and a start date lined up for June of this year.
Elysian Film Group and Neal Street Productions are behind the project which is scripted by BAFTA winner Simon Farnaby, riding high off the success of box office hit Wonka, which he co-wrote with Paul King.
Ben Gregor (Britannia) is newly aboard to direct the feature, based on the book series by beloved British author Blyton, also known for creating hit kids properties such as Noddy and Famous Five.
Casting is in process on the film, which will be repped for worldwide sales at next month’s EFM by Tamara Birkemoe’s US and UK-based Palisades Park Pictures. CAA Media Finance is co-repping domestic.
Updated for a contemporary audience, The...
Elysian Film Group and Neal Street Productions are behind the project which is scripted by BAFTA winner Simon Farnaby, riding high off the success of box office hit Wonka, which he co-wrote with Paul King.
Ben Gregor (Britannia) is newly aboard to direct the feature, based on the book series by beloved British author Blyton, also known for creating hit kids properties such as Noddy and Famous Five.
Casting is in process on the film, which will be repped for worldwide sales at next month’s EFM by Tamara Birkemoe’s US and UK-based Palisades Park Pictures. CAA Media Finance is co-repping domestic.
Updated for a contemporary audience, The...
- 1/11/2024
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Pierpoline takes over from Kathryn Busby.
US producer Joyce Pierpoline is taking over as the second chair of Bafta North America’s board of directors, succeeding inaugural lead, Kathryn Busby.
Pierpoline is founder of New York and Paris-based Pierpoline Films, serves as chair of Bafta North America’s Film Committee and is co-founder of the Producers Guild of America’s Women’s Impact Network, which promotes gender equality in the industry.
Her production credits include Mediha, winner of the Grand Jury Prize at Doc NYC 2023 and Sundance 2007 premiere, Teeth.
The Bafta North America Board will also have a new member – David Linde — CEO of Participant,...
US producer Joyce Pierpoline is taking over as the second chair of Bafta North America’s board of directors, succeeding inaugural lead, Kathryn Busby.
Pierpoline is founder of New York and Paris-based Pierpoline Films, serves as chair of Bafta North America’s Film Committee and is co-founder of the Producers Guild of America’s Women’s Impact Network, which promotes gender equality in the industry.
Her production credits include Mediha, winner of the Grand Jury Prize at Doc NYC 2023 and Sundance 2007 premiere, Teeth.
The Bafta North America Board will also have a new member – David Linde — CEO of Participant,...
- 1/9/2024
- by Mona Tabbara
- ScreenDaily
The British Academy has appointed award-winning producer Joyce Pierpoline as the chair of BAFTA North America’s board of directors.
Pierpoline — whose credits include Doc NYC winner “Mediha,” “Angelica” and Sundance-winning cult classic “Teeth” — succeeds Kathryn Busby, who was given the newly-created role in January 2022 after BAFTA united its New York and Los Angeles entities.
“I am delighted to take over the role of chair of BAFTA North America from Kathryn Busby, who carried out such brilliant work during her tenure,” said Pierpoline, who is also the founder of Pierpoline Films, serves as chair of BAFTA North America’s Film Committee and is co-founder of the Producers Guild of America’s Women’s Impact Network, promoting gender equality in the industry. “I’m looking forward to the future of BAFTA North America and will continue working with my colleagues on the board to ensure that BAFTA’s charitable work reflects...
Pierpoline — whose credits include Doc NYC winner “Mediha,” “Angelica” and Sundance-winning cult classic “Teeth” — succeeds Kathryn Busby, who was given the newly-created role in January 2022 after BAFTA united its New York and Los Angeles entities.
“I am delighted to take over the role of chair of BAFTA North America from Kathryn Busby, who carried out such brilliant work during her tenure,” said Pierpoline, who is also the founder of Pierpoline Films, serves as chair of BAFTA North America’s Film Committee and is co-founder of the Producers Guild of America’s Women’s Impact Network, promoting gender equality in the industry. “I’m looking forward to the future of BAFTA North America and will continue working with my colleagues on the board to ensure that BAFTA’s charitable work reflects...
- 1/8/2024
- by Alex Ritman
- Variety Film + TV
Producer Joyce Pierpoline has been appointed chair of BAFTA North America’s Board of Directors. She succeeds Kathryn Busby.
Pierpoline’s credits include Mediha, winner of the Grand Jury Prize at Doc NYC 2023, Angelica (2016), and Sundance-winning Teeth (2007). She founded Pierpoline Films based in New York and Paris, serves as chair of BAFTA North America’s Film Committee, and is co-founder of the Producers Guild of America’s Women’s Impact Network.
Also joining the BAFTA North America board today is David Linde, CEO of Participant. Linde has previously served as the CEO and owner of Lava Bear Films, chairman of Universal Pictures, and co-founded Focus Features. Continuing their BAFTA North America executive board terms are actor Elliot Knight as Deputy Chair, Betsy Rodgers as Secretary, and Josephine Coyle as Treasurer.
The extended BAFTA North America board includes Alexis Alexanian...
Pierpoline’s credits include Mediha, winner of the Grand Jury Prize at Doc NYC 2023, Angelica (2016), and Sundance-winning Teeth (2007). She founded Pierpoline Films based in New York and Paris, serves as chair of BAFTA North America’s Film Committee, and is co-founder of the Producers Guild of America’s Women’s Impact Network.
Also joining the BAFTA North America board today is David Linde, CEO of Participant. Linde has previously served as the CEO and owner of Lava Bear Films, chairman of Universal Pictures, and co-founded Focus Features. Continuing their BAFTA North America executive board terms are actor Elliot Knight as Deputy Chair, Betsy Rodgers as Secretary, and Josephine Coyle as Treasurer.
The extended BAFTA North America board includes Alexis Alexanian...
- 1/8/2024
- by Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
Venture capital group reportedly in advanced talks with Warner Bros Discovery and Liberty Global to acquire production group
US-based investment firm RedBird Imi, the venture capital group run by former CNN president Jeff Zucker and former Goldman Sachs exec Gerry Cardinale, has emerged as the frontrunner to buy London-based film and TV outfit All3Media in a deal believed to be valued over £1bn.
According to The Financial Times, tis in advanced talks with All3Media’s owners Warner Bros Discovery and Liberty Global, which acquired the company in 2014 for £550m.
All3Media owns leading film and TV companies including Pippa Harris...
US-based investment firm RedBird Imi, the venture capital group run by former CNN president Jeff Zucker and former Goldman Sachs exec Gerry Cardinale, has emerged as the frontrunner to buy London-based film and TV outfit All3Media in a deal believed to be valued over £1bn.
According to The Financial Times, tis in advanced talks with All3Media’s owners Warner Bros Discovery and Liberty Global, which acquired the company in 2014 for £550m.
All3Media owns leading film and TV companies including Pippa Harris...
- 12/12/2023
- by Marian McHugh Broadcast
- ScreenDaily
For the last five years, January has meant one thing to the cast of Ghosts: trundling over to West Horsley Place in Surrey to film the next series. Not in 2024. The BBC comedy’s final episode is set to air this Christmas, and after that, what do this in-demand lot have planned?
Plenty, it turns out. They’ll be popping up on screen and stage, as well as writing new projects both individually and together. As Larry Rickard told Den of Geek, “It’s not like we’re [famously fractious 70s soft rock band] The Eagles and we hate each other!” A Ghosts reunion down the line “wouldn’t be a mountain to climb,” says Rickard. “It’s a door that’s shut but obviously, doors have hinges and handles.”
And ghosts can just walk through them, we venture? “Well exactly, they haven’t even got to go to the effort of opening them.”
“We were quite definite,...
Plenty, it turns out. They’ll be popping up on screen and stage, as well as writing new projects both individually and together. As Larry Rickard told Den of Geek, “It’s not like we’re [famously fractious 70s soft rock band] The Eagles and we hate each other!” A Ghosts reunion down the line “wouldn’t be a mountain to climb,” says Rickard. “It’s a door that’s shut but obviously, doors have hinges and handles.”
And ghosts can just walk through them, we venture? “Well exactly, they haven’t even got to go to the effort of opening them.”
“We were quite definite,...
- 11/10/2023
- by Louisa Mellor
- Den of Geek
Marlow Film Studios would be built on a former landfill site,
The decision on plans to build a film studio in Marlow in Buckinghamshire in the UK has been deferred by the local council until next year.
The proposal for Marlow Film Studios, a 36-hectare plot built upon a former landfill site, was presented to Buckinghamshire Council’s Strategic Sites Committee yesterday (October 23) with six voting in favour and five against.
Top industry names had voiced their support for the studios including director Sam Mendes; producer Gareth Ellis-Unwin; producer Pippa Harris; former BFI CEO Amanda Nevill; American Film Institute chair...
The decision on plans to build a film studio in Marlow in Buckinghamshire in the UK has been deferred by the local council until next year.
The proposal for Marlow Film Studios, a 36-hectare plot built upon a former landfill site, was presented to Buckinghamshire Council’s Strategic Sites Committee yesterday (October 23) with six voting in favour and five against.
Top industry names had voiced their support for the studios including director Sam Mendes; producer Gareth Ellis-Unwin; producer Pippa Harris; former BFI CEO Amanda Nevill; American Film Institute chair...
- 10/24/2023
- by Ellie Calnan
- ScreenDaily
Voting will close on November 1.
Voting is now open for the Big Screen Award’s Best British Film of the Year 2023.
The vote closes on November 1 and the winner will be announced at the Big Screen Awards ceremony on November 23 at The Brewery in London.
The Big Screen Awards 2023: Best British Film Of The Year
Last year’s best British film was awarded to Kenneth Branagh’s Belfast with Mark Jenkin’s Bait winning in 2019 and 2018’s inaugural prize going to Daniel Kokotajlo’s Apostasy.
The full list of nominees for this year’s Big Screen Awards can be found here.
Voting is now open for the Big Screen Award’s Best British Film of the Year 2023.
The vote closes on November 1 and the winner will be announced at the Big Screen Awards ceremony on November 23 at The Brewery in London.
The Big Screen Awards 2023: Best British Film Of The Year
Last year’s best British film was awarded to Kenneth Branagh’s Belfast with Mark Jenkin’s Bait winning in 2019 and 2018’s inaugural prize going to Daniel Kokotajlo’s Apostasy.
The full list of nominees for this year’s Big Screen Awards can be found here.
- 10/11/2023
- by Screen staff¬Ellie Calnan
- ScreenDaily
After 18 years at BAFTA, Krishnendu Majumdar is having trouble switching off.
It’s been almost two months since the media executive, who recently won a BAFTA for producing the Kate Winslet-led Channel 4 drama “I Am Ruth,” finished his three-year term as chair of the British Academy, handing over the reins to agency boss Sara Putt. But it took a minute, he says, to stop going on high alert every time he clocked a buzzy topic that BAFTA might be asked to comment on.
“You see something online and you think, ‘Oh I wonder how we should respond?’” says Majumdar, known to most in the industry as simply ‘Krish.’ “And then it’s like, ‘No, no. I don’t do that’ … I’m just a member. I’m not on any committees. I’m not a trustee. I don’t speak on their behalf anymore.”
Majumdar was appointed as...
It’s been almost two months since the media executive, who recently won a BAFTA for producing the Kate Winslet-led Channel 4 drama “I Am Ruth,” finished his three-year term as chair of the British Academy, handing over the reins to agency boss Sara Putt. But it took a minute, he says, to stop going on high alert every time he clocked a buzzy topic that BAFTA might be asked to comment on.
“You see something online and you think, ‘Oh I wonder how we should respond?’” says Majumdar, known to most in the industry as simply ‘Krish.’ “And then it’s like, ‘No, no. I don’t do that’ … I’m just a member. I’m not on any committees. I’m not a trustee. I don’t speak on their behalf anymore.”
Majumdar was appointed as...
- 8/11/2023
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
HBO, the acclaimed television network, has officially given the green light to the comedy series “The Franchise,” as announced by Amy Gravitt, Executive Vice President of HBO Programming and Head of HBO & Max Comedy Series. This highly anticipated series features an impressive ensemble cast led by Himesh Patel and Aya Cash, along with previously announced stars Jessica Hynes, Billy Magnussen, Lolly Adefope, Darren Goldstein, Isaac Powell, Richard E. Grant, and Daniel Brühl. “The Franchise” is a half-hour comedy that hails from the creative minds of Sam Mendes, Armando Iannucci, and Jon Brown.
Set in the comedic realm of an unloved franchise movie, “The Franchise” dives headfirst into the battle for relevance in a chaotic and unconventional cinematic universe. This series unveils the clandestine pandemonium lurking behind the scenes of superhero filmmaking, leaving viewers to ponder: what exactly goes into the making of the cinematic sausage? With the utmost humor and candor,...
Set in the comedic realm of an unloved franchise movie, “The Franchise” dives headfirst into the battle for relevance in a chaotic and unconventional cinematic universe. This series unveils the clandestine pandemonium lurking behind the scenes of superhero filmmaking, leaving viewers to ponder: what exactly goes into the making of the cinematic sausage? With the utmost humor and candor,...
- 8/10/2023
- by Morgan Hall
- TV Everyday
Micheal Ward, Sam Mendes and Olivia Colman on the set of ‘Empire of Light’
HBO’s greenlit The Franchise, a new comedy that delves into the world of superhero films. Oscar winner Sam Mendes (American Beauty) directed the series’ pilot, and Emmy winner Jon Brown (Succession) writes and guides the half-hour comedy as showrunner.
“With a deft touch only he can bring, Sam has brilliantly captured the romance and the reality of filmmaking today. Jon is superb at sending up worlds we think we already know. Together, with Armando [Iannucci], they have delivered a truly hilarious comedy ensemble. I can’t wait to see more,” stated Amy Gravitt, Executive Vice President, HBO Programming, Head of HBO & Max Comedy Series.
The series stars Himesh Patel as Daniel, Aya Cash as Anita, Jessica Hynes as Steph, Billy Magnussen as Adam, Lolly Adefope as Dag, Darren Goldstein as Pat, and Isaac Powell as Bryson.
HBO’s greenlit The Franchise, a new comedy that delves into the world of superhero films. Oscar winner Sam Mendes (American Beauty) directed the series’ pilot, and Emmy winner Jon Brown (Succession) writes and guides the half-hour comedy as showrunner.
“With a deft touch only he can bring, Sam has brilliantly captured the romance and the reality of filmmaking today. Jon is superb at sending up worlds we think we already know. Together, with Armando [Iannucci], they have delivered a truly hilarious comedy ensemble. I can’t wait to see more,” stated Amy Gravitt, Executive Vice President, HBO Programming, Head of HBO & Max Comedy Series.
The series stars Himesh Patel as Daniel, Aya Cash as Anita, Jessica Hynes as Steph, Billy Magnussen as Adam, Lolly Adefope as Dag, Darren Goldstein as Pat, and Isaac Powell as Bryson.
- 8/9/2023
- by Rebecca Murray
- Showbiz Junkies
Himesh Patel and Aya Cash will star, with UK writer Jon Brown as showrunner.
HBO has ordered a comedy series about the world of superhero movie-making with Sam Mendes and Armando Iannucci as executive producers.
The Franchise will star Himesh Patel and Aya Cash as regulars, with recurring guest stars including Richard E Grant and Daniel Bruhl.
The series will follow the crew of an unloved franchise movie as they fight for their place in a savage cinematic universe.
Patel, a Screen Star of Tomorrow from 2019, was previously in the HBO Max drama series Station Eleven – for which he was...
HBO has ordered a comedy series about the world of superhero movie-making with Sam Mendes and Armando Iannucci as executive producers.
The Franchise will star Himesh Patel and Aya Cash as regulars, with recurring guest stars including Richard E Grant and Daniel Bruhl.
The series will follow the crew of an unloved franchise movie as they fight for their place in a savage cinematic universe.
Patel, a Screen Star of Tomorrow from 2019, was previously in the HBO Max drama series Station Eleven – for which he was...
- 8/9/2023
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
The television crossover you’ve been waiting for is finally happening, though not in the way you’d expect. HBO is green-lighting The Franchise, a half-hour comedy series taking us behind the scenes of a fictional struggling superhero movie. Aiming at makers of superhero cinema like DC Studios and Marvel Studios, The Franchise explores the concept of superhero fatigue through comedy and the arduous task of creating in the contentious superhero space.
Here’s the official description of The Franchise: “The crew of an unloved franchise movie fight for their place in a savage and unruly cinematic universe. The Franchise shines a light on the secret chaos inside the world of superhero moviemaking, to ask the question — how exactly does the cinematic sausage get made? Because every f*ck-up has an origin story.”
Himesh Patel (Yesterday) and Aya Cash (You’re the Worst) star in The Franchise, with Jessica Hynes, Billy Magnussen,...
Here’s the official description of The Franchise: “The crew of an unloved franchise movie fight for their place in a savage and unruly cinematic universe. The Franchise shines a light on the secret chaos inside the world of superhero moviemaking, to ask the question — how exactly does the cinematic sausage get made? Because every f*ck-up has an origin story.”
Himesh Patel (Yesterday) and Aya Cash (You’re the Worst) star in The Franchise, with Jessica Hynes, Billy Magnussen,...
- 8/9/2023
- by Steve Seigh
- JoBlo.com
“The Franchise,” a half-hour comedy series from Sam Mendes, Armando Iannucci and Jon Brown, has been picked up to series by HBO.
According to its logline, the show follows the crew of an unloved franchise movie as they fight for their place in a “savage and unruly cinematic universe” and shines a light on “the secret chaos inside the world of superhero moviemaking.”
The series stars Himesh Patel as Daniel and Aya Cash as Anita, Jessica Hynes as Steph, Billy Magnussen as Adam, Lolly Adefope as Dag, Darren Goldstein as Pat, and Isaac Powell as Bryson. Recurring guest stars include Richard E. Grant as Peter and Daniel Brühl as Eric.
Patel is repped by 42, WME, and attorney Greg Slewett. Cash is repped by UTA, Industry, and attorney Paul Hastings.
In addition to Mendes, Brown and Iannucci, “The Franchise” is executive produced by Pippa Harris, Nicolas Brown, and Julie Pastor for...
According to its logline, the show follows the crew of an unloved franchise movie as they fight for their place in a “savage and unruly cinematic universe” and shines a light on “the secret chaos inside the world of superhero moviemaking.”
The series stars Himesh Patel as Daniel and Aya Cash as Anita, Jessica Hynes as Steph, Billy Magnussen as Adam, Lolly Adefope as Dag, Darren Goldstein as Pat, and Isaac Powell as Bryson. Recurring guest stars include Richard E. Grant as Peter and Daniel Brühl as Eric.
Patel is repped by 42, WME, and attorney Greg Slewett. Cash is repped by UTA, Industry, and attorney Paul Hastings.
In addition to Mendes, Brown and Iannucci, “The Franchise” is executive produced by Pippa Harris, Nicolas Brown, and Julie Pastor for...
- 8/9/2023
- by Lucas Manfredi
- The Wrap
HBO has picked up to series The Franchise pilot, a half-hour comedy that takes a wry look at superhero movie-making, from Oscar-winning director Sam Mendes, Veep and Avenue 5 creator Armando Iannucci and writer Jon Brown.
Work on the pilot was completed before the SAG-AFTRA strike began, and production on the series will not begin until the strikes have concluded.
Himesh Patel and Aya Cash have joined as series regulars on the comedy, which revolves around on the crew of an unloved franchise movie who fight for their place in a savage and unruly cinematic universe. The Franchise shines a light on the secret chaos inside the world of superhero moviemaking to ask the question: How exactly does the cinematic sausage get made? Because every f*ckup has an origin story.
Patel and Cash are featured in the pilot, but their roles never were announced. Previously announced cast includes series regulars Jessica Hynes,...
Work on the pilot was completed before the SAG-AFTRA strike began, and production on the series will not begin until the strikes have concluded.
Himesh Patel and Aya Cash have joined as series regulars on the comedy, which revolves around on the crew of an unloved franchise movie who fight for their place in a savage and unruly cinematic universe. The Franchise shines a light on the secret chaos inside the world of superhero moviemaking to ask the question: How exactly does the cinematic sausage get made? Because every f*ckup has an origin story.
Patel and Cash are featured in the pilot, but their roles never were announced. Previously announced cast includes series regulars Jessica Hynes,...
- 8/9/2023
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
HBO has ordered Sam Mendes and Armando Iannucci’s superhero movie-making comedy “The Franchise” to series.
Himesh Patel and Aya Cash star alongside previously announced cast Jessica Hynes, Billy Magnussen, Lolly Adefope, Darren Goldstein, Isaac Powell, Richard E. Grant and Daniel Brühl.
Jon Brown wrote the pilot and serves as showrunner, while Mendes directs.
In “The Franchise,” “the crew of an unloved franchise movie fight for their place in a savage and unruly cinematic universe.” Per the logline, the series “shines a light on the secret chaos inside the world of superhero moviemaking, to ask the question — how exactly does the cinematic sausage get made? Because every fuck-up has an origin story.”
Executive producers include “Veep” creator Iannucci for Dundee Productions; Mendes, Pippa Harris, Nicolas Brown and Julie Pastor for Neal Street Productions; and Brown and Jim Kleverweis.
Work on the pilot was completed before the actors strike began on...
Himesh Patel and Aya Cash star alongside previously announced cast Jessica Hynes, Billy Magnussen, Lolly Adefope, Darren Goldstein, Isaac Powell, Richard E. Grant and Daniel Brühl.
Jon Brown wrote the pilot and serves as showrunner, while Mendes directs.
In “The Franchise,” “the crew of an unloved franchise movie fight for their place in a savage and unruly cinematic universe.” Per the logline, the series “shines a light on the secret chaos inside the world of superhero moviemaking, to ask the question — how exactly does the cinematic sausage get made? Because every fuck-up has an origin story.”
Executive producers include “Veep” creator Iannucci for Dundee Productions; Mendes, Pippa Harris, Nicolas Brown and Julie Pastor for Neal Street Productions; and Brown and Jim Kleverweis.
Work on the pilot was completed before the actors strike began on...
- 8/9/2023
- by Ethan Shanfeld
- Variety Film + TV
HBO is going to tackle superhero fatigue.
The company has greenlit a half-hour comedy series, The Franchise, going behind-the-scenes of a fictional struggling superhero movie.
The official description: “The crew of an unloved franchise movie fight for their place in a savage and unruly cinematic universe. The Franchise shines a light on the secret chaos inside the world of superhero moviemaking, to ask the question — how exactly does the cinematic sausage get made? Because every fuck-up has an origin story.”
The series stars Himesh Patel (Yesterday) and Aya Cash (You’re the Worst) along with Jessica Hynes, Billy Magnussen, Lolly Adefope, Darren Goldstein, Isaac Powell, Richard E. Grant and Daniel Brühl.
The Franchise is from Sam Mendes (Skyfall) along with Armando Iannucci (Veep) and showunner Jon Brown (Succession, Veep).
“With a deft touch only he can bring, Sam has brilliantly captured the romance and the reality of filmmaking today,” said Amy Gravitt,...
The company has greenlit a half-hour comedy series, The Franchise, going behind-the-scenes of a fictional struggling superhero movie.
The official description: “The crew of an unloved franchise movie fight for their place in a savage and unruly cinematic universe. The Franchise shines a light on the secret chaos inside the world of superhero moviemaking, to ask the question — how exactly does the cinematic sausage get made? Because every fuck-up has an origin story.”
The series stars Himesh Patel (Yesterday) and Aya Cash (You’re the Worst) along with Jessica Hynes, Billy Magnussen, Lolly Adefope, Darren Goldstein, Isaac Powell, Richard E. Grant and Daniel Brühl.
The Franchise is from Sam Mendes (Skyfall) along with Armando Iannucci (Veep) and showunner Jon Brown (Succession, Veep).
“With a deft touch only he can bring, Sam has brilliantly captured the romance and the reality of filmmaking today,” said Amy Gravitt,...
- 8/9/2023
- by James Hibberd
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Adaptation
“Tabby McTat,” the lively children’s story by writer Julia Donaldson and illustrator Axel Scheffler, is set to get the BBC treatment with a new adaptation by longtime Donaldson/Scheffler collaborators Magic Light Pictures. “Doctor Who” star Jodie Whittaker will narrate the tale about a cat who gets separated from his owner while Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísú (“Gangs of London”) will voice Tabby. Other stars lending their voices to the short include Rob Brydon (“Gavin and Stacey”), Cariad Lloyd (“Peep Show”), Joanna Scanlan (“The Thick of It”) and Susan Wokoma (“Enola Holmes”).
“Superworm” directors Sarah Scrimgeour and Jac Hamman will helm the project, which was written by Max Lang and Suzanne Lang. Barney Goodland and Michael Rose of Magic Light Pictures will produce. BBC chief content office Charlotte Moore and BBC drama commissioning editor Nawfal Faizullah acquired the film for the BBC. Red Star Studio will provide animation services.
Disney Season...
“Tabby McTat,” the lively children’s story by writer Julia Donaldson and illustrator Axel Scheffler, is set to get the BBC treatment with a new adaptation by longtime Donaldson/Scheffler collaborators Magic Light Pictures. “Doctor Who” star Jodie Whittaker will narrate the tale about a cat who gets separated from his owner while Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísú (“Gangs of London”) will voice Tabby. Other stars lending their voices to the short include Rob Brydon (“Gavin and Stacey”), Cariad Lloyd (“Peep Show”), Joanna Scanlan (“The Thick of It”) and Susan Wokoma (“Enola Holmes”).
“Superworm” directors Sarah Scrimgeour and Jac Hamman will helm the project, which was written by Max Lang and Suzanne Lang. Barney Goodland and Michael Rose of Magic Light Pictures will produce. BBC chief content office Charlotte Moore and BBC drama commissioning editor Nawfal Faizullah acquired the film for the BBC. Red Star Studio will provide animation services.
Disney Season...
- 5/11/2023
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
That's no spelling mistake -- "Hamnet" is a film adaptation of Maggie O'Farrell's 2020 novel of the same name, not a new movie version of William Shakespeare's famous stage play tragedy "Hamlet". The film is being developed by Chloé Zhao, herself coming off multiple Oscars wins for her adaptation of the non-fiction book "Nomadland." Her other credits include "Songs My Brother Taught Me" and "The Rider," both of which have quasi-documentary qualities similar to those of "Nomadland."
More recently, Zhao directed "Eternals" -- a cosmic gumbo of a superhero epic that, say what you might against it, is one of most visually-accomplished and emotionally-grounded Marvel Cinematic Universe films to date. The point being, Zhao always aspires to make art that is both emotionally and technically complex, and "Hamnet" is certainly a good match for her sensibilities.
While we're still awaiting some key information at the time of writing (including...
More recently, Zhao directed "Eternals" -- a cosmic gumbo of a superhero epic that, say what you might against it, is one of most visually-accomplished and emotionally-grounded Marvel Cinematic Universe films to date. The point being, Zhao always aspires to make art that is both emotionally and technically complex, and "Hamnet" is certainly a good match for her sensibilities.
While we're still awaiting some key information at the time of writing (including...
- 5/6/2023
- by Sandy Schaefer
- Slash Film
Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal are in talks to star in 'Hamnet'.The duo are set to join the cast of Chloe Zhao's adaptation of Maggie O'Farrell's best-selling historical fiction novel.The tale imagines the story of Agnes – the wife of the world's most famous writer, William Shakespeare – as she struggles to come to terms with the loss of her only son Hamnet.The story charts the emotional, familial and artistic consequences of the loss and brings to life a human and heart-stopping tale as the backdrop to the creation of Shakespeare's most famous play, 'Hamlet'.Liza Marshall, Pippa Harris and Sam Mendes are producing the movie on behalf of Neal Street, the company that produced the Oscar-winning war film '1917'.Chloe is adapting the script with O'Farrell but it is unclear if the film will be her next project as she is developing a number of...
- 5/2/2023
- by Joe Graber
- Bang Showbiz
“Nomadland” director Chloé Zhao has landed two heavy hitters for her next film, “Hamnet,” set up at Steven Spielberg’s Amblin Partners. Oscar nominees Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal are both in talks to star in the film, an individual with knowledge of the project told IndieWire.
“Hamnet” is a historical fiction take on the Bard, William Shakespeare, that tells the story of his wife Anne “Agnes” Hathaway and her romance with the man who would become the world’s most famous playwright. The novel focuses on the death of the couple’s son, Hamnet, who died at age 11 in 1596 and has been speculated to be an inspiration for Shakespeare’s play “Hamlet.”
Specific character details for Buckley and Mescal were not disclosed.
“Hamnet” is based on a New York Times-best-selling novel from 2020 by author Maggie O’Farrell. Zhao is co-writing the script with O’Farrell.
Liza Marshall through Hera Pictures and Pippa Harris,...
“Hamnet” is a historical fiction take on the Bard, William Shakespeare, that tells the story of his wife Anne “Agnes” Hathaway and her romance with the man who would become the world’s most famous playwright. The novel focuses on the death of the couple’s son, Hamnet, who died at age 11 in 1596 and has been speculated to be an inspiration for Shakespeare’s play “Hamlet.”
Specific character details for Buckley and Mescal were not disclosed.
“Hamnet” is based on a New York Times-best-selling novel from 2020 by author Maggie O’Farrell. Zhao is co-writing the script with O’Farrell.
Liza Marshall through Hera Pictures and Pippa Harris,...
- 5/1/2023
- by Brian Welk
- Indiewire
Exclusive: Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal are in talks to star in an adaptation of Hamnet for Amblin Partners, Hera Pictures, Neal Street Productions and Book of Shadows. Chloé Zhao will direct the film based on the novel by Maggie O’Farrell, who will adapt the script with Zhao.
The New York Times bestselling historical fiction novel imagines the story of Agnes – the wife of the world’s most famous writer, William Shakespeare – as she struggles to come to terms with the loss of her only son, Hamnet. The novel charts the emotional, familial and artistic consequences of that loss, bringing to life a human and heart-stopping story as the backdrop to the creation of The Bard’s Hamlet.
Hamnet won the 2020 Women’s Prize for Fiction and the Fiction Prize at the 2020 National Book Critics Circle Awards and was shortlisted for the Walter Scott Prize and longlisted for the Andrew...
The New York Times bestselling historical fiction novel imagines the story of Agnes – the wife of the world’s most famous writer, William Shakespeare – as she struggles to come to terms with the loss of her only son, Hamnet. The novel charts the emotional, familial and artistic consequences of that loss, bringing to life a human and heart-stopping story as the backdrop to the creation of The Bard’s Hamlet.
Hamnet won the 2020 Women’s Prize for Fiction and the Fiction Prize at the 2020 National Book Critics Circle Awards and was shortlisted for the Walter Scott Prize and longlisted for the Andrew...
- 5/1/2023
- by Justin Kroll
- Deadline Film + TV
Filmmaker Chloé Zhao (Nomadland) has been signed up to take the helm on an adaptation of Maggie O’Farrell’s acclaimed Shakespeare-era novel ‘Hamnet’ for Amblin Partners.
The bestseller reframes the creation of William Shakespeare’s most famous play, ‘Hamlet,’ through the lens of the playwright’s wife Agnes, as she grieves the death of her only son, 11-year-old Hamnet, to the bubonic plague. The novel also traces the beginnings of Agnes’ relationship with young Shakespeare — who is never named, known only as the world’s most famous playwright.
Also in news – Austin Butler cast in adaptation ‘City on Fire’
Zhao will also be penning the screenplay with O’Farrell. Amblin Partners, Hera Pictures, Neal Street Productions and Book of Shadows are all backing the project.
Liza Marshall, Pippa Harris (1917) and Sam Mendes (1917) are producing, and Nic Gonda is executive producing for Book of Shadows. Jeb Brody, Amblin’s president of production,...
The bestseller reframes the creation of William Shakespeare’s most famous play, ‘Hamlet,’ through the lens of the playwright’s wife Agnes, as she grieves the death of her only son, 11-year-old Hamnet, to the bubonic plague. The novel also traces the beginnings of Agnes’ relationship with young Shakespeare — who is never named, known only as the world’s most famous playwright.
Also in news – Austin Butler cast in adaptation ‘City on Fire’
Zhao will also be penning the screenplay with O’Farrell. Amblin Partners, Hera Pictures, Neal Street Productions and Book of Shadows are all backing the project.
Liza Marshall, Pippa Harris (1917) and Sam Mendes (1917) are producing, and Nic Gonda is executive producing for Book of Shadows. Jeb Brody, Amblin’s president of production,...
- 4/5/2023
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Chinese filmmaker Chloé Zhao is getting behind the camera to direct an adaptation of Hamnet for Amblin Partners, Hera Pictures, Neal Street Productions, and Book of Shadows. The concept is based on the novel by Maggie O’Farrell, who joins Zhao in adapting the script.
Hamnet is a fictional novel depicting the life and times of Agnes, the wife of William Shakespeare. The story takes audiences through a tumultuous tale of shattered realities, loss, and heart-wrenching inspiration behind Shakespeare’s world-famous Hamlet.
Per Amazon, the official description for O’Farrell’s Hamnet reads:
England, 1580. A young Latin tutor—penniless, bullied by a violent father—falls in love with an eccentric young woman: a wild creature who walks her family’s estate with a falcon on her shoulder and is known throughout the countryside for her unusual gifts as a healer. Agnes understands plants and potions better than she does people, but...
Hamnet is a fictional novel depicting the life and times of Agnes, the wife of William Shakespeare. The story takes audiences through a tumultuous tale of shattered realities, loss, and heart-wrenching inspiration behind Shakespeare’s world-famous Hamlet.
Per Amazon, the official description for O’Farrell’s Hamnet reads:
England, 1580. A young Latin tutor—penniless, bullied by a violent father—falls in love with an eccentric young woman: a wild creature who walks her family’s estate with a falcon on her shoulder and is known throughout the countryside for her unusual gifts as a healer. Agnes understands plants and potions better than she does people, but...
- 4/4/2023
- by Steve Seigh
- JoBlo.com
Chloé Zhao is adding another feature to the roster of films she has on her plate. The filmmaker has set her sights on Hamnet, which is in the works from Amblin Partners, Hera Pictures, Neal Street Productions and Book of Shadows.
The feature is based on Maggie O’Farrell’s historical novel of the same name. It centers on Agnes, the wife of William Shakespeare who is mourning the loss of her son, Hamnet.
Zhao is a two-time Oscar winner for Nomadland, which landed her best director and best picture Oscars as a producer. The filmmaker followed that up with Marvel Studios’ Eternals, and she is also known for The Rider.
Zhao will pen the script for Hamnet with O’Farrell. Liza Marshall, Pippa Harris and Sam Mendes are producing, with Nic Gonda executive producing for Book of Shadows. Jeb Brody, Amblin’s president of production, and Mia Maniscalco, senior vp creative affairs,...
The feature is based on Maggie O’Farrell’s historical novel of the same name. It centers on Agnes, the wife of William Shakespeare who is mourning the loss of her son, Hamnet.
Zhao is a two-time Oscar winner for Nomadland, which landed her best director and best picture Oscars as a producer. The filmmaker followed that up with Marvel Studios’ Eternals, and she is also known for The Rider.
Zhao will pen the script for Hamnet with O’Farrell. Liza Marshall, Pippa Harris and Sam Mendes are producing, with Nic Gonda executive producing for Book of Shadows. Jeb Brody, Amblin’s president of production, and Mia Maniscalco, senior vp creative affairs,...
- 4/4/2023
- by Aaron Couch
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
After Chloé Zhao’s venture into the Marvel universe, the Oscar winner is taking on the Bard. The “Nomadland” and “Eternals” director will adapt “Hamnet,” the 2020 novel from Irish author Maggie O’Farrell, IndieWire has confirmed.
A work of historical fiction, “Hamnet” tells the story of William Shakespeare’s wife Anne Hathaway (referred in the story as Agnes), and her romance with the man who would become the world’s most famous playwright. The novel particularly focuses on the death of the couple’s son, Hamnet, who died at age 11 in 1596 and has long been speculated to be an inspiration for Shakespeare’s most famous play, the very similarly named “Hamlet.” Upon its release, O’Farrell’s novel received critical acclaim; it won the 2020 Women’s Prize for Fiction and the Fiction Prize from the 2020 National Book Critics Circle, and was named by the New York Times Book Review as one...
A work of historical fiction, “Hamnet” tells the story of William Shakespeare’s wife Anne Hathaway (referred in the story as Agnes), and her romance with the man who would become the world’s most famous playwright. The novel particularly focuses on the death of the couple’s son, Hamnet, who died at age 11 in 1596 and has long been speculated to be an inspiration for Shakespeare’s most famous play, the very similarly named “Hamlet.” Upon its release, O’Farrell’s novel received critical acclaim; it won the 2020 Women’s Prize for Fiction and the Fiction Prize from the 2020 National Book Critics Circle, and was named by the New York Times Book Review as one...
- 4/4/2023
- by Wilson Chapman
- Indiewire
Oscar-winning filmmaker Chloé Zhao (“Nomadland”) will direct an adaptation of Maggie O’Farrell’s acclaimed Shakespeare-era novel “Hamnet” for Amblin Partners. Zhao is writing the screenplay with O’Farrell. Amblin Partners, Hera Pictures, Neal Street Productions and Book of Shadows are all backing the project.
O’Farrell’s New York Times bestseller reframes the creation of William Shakespeare’s most famous play, “Hamlet,” through the lens of the playwright’s wife Agnes, as she grieves the death of her only son, 11-year-old Hamnet, to the bubonic plauge. The novel also traces the beginnings of Agnes’ relationship with young Shakespeare — who is never named, known only as the world’s most famous playwright. In 2020, “Hamnet” won the Women’s Prize for fiction and the National Book Critics Circle Award for fiction.
Liza Marshall, Pippa Harris (“1917”) and Sam Mendes (“1917”) are producing, and Nic Gonda (“Tree of Life”) is executive producing for Book of Shadows.
O’Farrell’s New York Times bestseller reframes the creation of William Shakespeare’s most famous play, “Hamlet,” through the lens of the playwright’s wife Agnes, as she grieves the death of her only son, 11-year-old Hamnet, to the bubonic plauge. The novel also traces the beginnings of Agnes’ relationship with young Shakespeare — who is never named, known only as the world’s most famous playwright. In 2020, “Hamnet” won the Women’s Prize for fiction and the National Book Critics Circle Award for fiction.
Liza Marshall, Pippa Harris (“1917”) and Sam Mendes (“1917”) are producing, and Nic Gonda (“Tree of Life”) is executive producing for Book of Shadows.
- 4/4/2023
- by Adam B. Vary
- Variety Film + TV
Two-time Academy Award winning filmmaker Chloé Zhao will direct “Hamnet,” an adaptation of the critically acclaimed, award winning novel by Maggie O’Farrell, Amblin Partners, Hera Pictures, Neal Street Productions and Book of Shadows announced on Tuesday.
Zhao and O’Farrell will write the script together.
The New York Times Bestselling historical fiction novel imagines the story of Agnes – the wife of the world’s most famous writer, William Shakespeare – as she struggles to come to terms with the loss of her only son, Hamnet. The novel charts the emotional, familial and artistic consequences of that loss, bringing to life a human and heart-stopping story as the backdrop to the creation of Shakespeare’s most famous play, Hamlet.
Also Read:
The 40 Best Movies on Hulu Right Now
Hamnet won the 2020 Women’s Prize for Fiction and the Fiction Prize at the 2020 National Book Critics Circle Awards, and was also shortlisted for...
Zhao and O’Farrell will write the script together.
The New York Times Bestselling historical fiction novel imagines the story of Agnes – the wife of the world’s most famous writer, William Shakespeare – as she struggles to come to terms with the loss of her only son, Hamnet. The novel charts the emotional, familial and artistic consequences of that loss, bringing to life a human and heart-stopping story as the backdrop to the creation of Shakespeare’s most famous play, Hamlet.
Also Read:
The 40 Best Movies on Hulu Right Now
Hamnet won the 2020 Women’s Prize for Fiction and the Fiction Prize at the 2020 National Book Critics Circle Awards, and was also shortlisted for...
- 4/4/2023
- by Umberto Gonzalez
- The Wrap
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