When Paul Bettany was approached for the title role in Alan Ball’s Uncle Frank, he was perhaps as skeptical as he was excited. “I’m a big Alan Ball fan, but also sort of a ‘glass is half empty’ type of fellow, so I went, ‘I’m going to get the one sh*t Alan Ball script,’” the actor joked. “I read it and it wasn’t, of course. But then I had lots of questions about whether I could and should play the part.”
The film written, directed and produced by Ball centers on college professor Frank Bledsoe, who takes his niece Beth (Sophia Lillis) to the South Carolina funeral of family patriarch Daddy Mac (Stephen Root). While visiting family, Frank wrestles with the sexual identity he’s long tried to hide from them, also coming to grips with a traumatic incident from his past.
The film written, directed and produced by Ball centers on college professor Frank Bledsoe, who takes his niece Beth (Sophia Lillis) to the South Carolina funeral of family patriarch Daddy Mac (Stephen Root). While visiting family, Frank wrestles with the sexual identity he’s long tried to hide from them, also coming to grips with a traumatic incident from his past.
- 8/15/2021
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Jon Hamm is set to produce and star in a rebooted, modernized take on “Fletch,” the character from the 1970s mystery novels first portrayed on screen by Chevy Chase in the classic 1985 comedy.
Miramax is behind the new adaptation of the “Fletch” character based on the novels by Gregory Mcdonald, and “Superbad” director Greg Mottola will direct from a script by “Lethal Weapon” writer Zev Borow. Hamm and Connie Tavel are producing, and David List is an executive producer.
In the books, Irwin M. Fletcher is a brazen, investigative reporter and ex-marine who alternates between writing stories, investigating other mysteries and dodging alimony payments for his ex-wives. And Chase as Fletch frequently assumes different identities, costumes and characters as part of his unusual investigative tactics.
Also Read: Jimmy Kimmel's 'Celebrity Mean Tweets': Jon Hamm Is a 'Softboy,' Will Ferrell 'Just Screams' (Video)
While the Chase movie is strictly a comedy,...
Miramax is behind the new adaptation of the “Fletch” character based on the novels by Gregory Mcdonald, and “Superbad” director Greg Mottola will direct from a script by “Lethal Weapon” writer Zev Borow. Hamm and Connie Tavel are producing, and David List is an executive producer.
In the books, Irwin M. Fletcher is a brazen, investigative reporter and ex-marine who alternates between writing stories, investigating other mysteries and dodging alimony payments for his ex-wives. And Chase as Fletch frequently assumes different identities, costumes and characters as part of his unusual investigative tactics.
Also Read: Jimmy Kimmel's 'Celebrity Mean Tweets': Jon Hamm Is a 'Softboy,' Will Ferrell 'Just Screams' (Video)
While the Chase movie is strictly a comedy,...
- 7/15/2020
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Bob Osher, Miramax’s chief operating officer and general counsel, is leaving his role at the studio after helping to secure a deal with ViacomCBS and Paramount that closed back in April.
Osher’s departure from Miramax following the closure of the deal was planned in advance, and he helped see through the deal in which ViacomCBS acquired a 49% ownership stake in Miramax, as well as a long-term agreement for Miramax’s film library.
The deal also included an exclusive, long-term first-look agreement allowing Paramount Pictures to develop, produce, finance and distribute new film and television projects based on Miramax’s IP.
Also Read: Miramax Names Former Super Deluxe CEO Wolfgang Hammer Head of Film
“We are grateful for the integral role Bob has played in advancing the company’s commitment to great storytelling and innovative television and film projects. Bob helped lay the groundwork and played a key role...
Osher’s departure from Miramax following the closure of the deal was planned in advance, and he helped see through the deal in which ViacomCBS acquired a 49% ownership stake in Miramax, as well as a long-term agreement for Miramax’s film library.
The deal also included an exclusive, long-term first-look agreement allowing Paramount Pictures to develop, produce, finance and distribute new film and television projects based on Miramax’s IP.
Also Read: Miramax Names Former Super Deluxe CEO Wolfgang Hammer Head of Film
“We are grateful for the integral role Bob has played in advancing the company’s commitment to great storytelling and innovative television and film projects. Bob helped lay the groundwork and played a key role...
- 6/24/2020
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Bob Osher is leaving his Miramax posts as chief operating officer and general counsel after playing a significant role in securing and closing the $375 million deal for ViacomCBS and Paramount to buy 49% of the company.
Osher had joined Miramax in 2018 after leading Sony’s digital division for seven years as president of Sony Pictures Digital Productions.
“We are grateful for the integral role Bob has played in advancing the company’s commitment to great storytelling and innovative television and film projects,” said Miramax CEO Bill Block. “Bob helped lay the groundwork and played a key role in achieving the completion of our strategic partnership with ViacomCBS/ Paramount, which will create unique new opportunities for collaborations and new value from our extensive library of award-winning film and television content.”
The deal gave ViacomCBS/Paramount access to nearly 800 titles including “Pulp Fiction,” “Shakespeare in Love” and “Good Will Hunting.” BeIN retains a 51% stake in the company,...
Osher had joined Miramax in 2018 after leading Sony’s digital division for seven years as president of Sony Pictures Digital Productions.
“We are grateful for the integral role Bob has played in advancing the company’s commitment to great storytelling and innovative television and film projects,” said Miramax CEO Bill Block. “Bob helped lay the groundwork and played a key role in achieving the completion of our strategic partnership with ViacomCBS/ Paramount, which will create unique new opportunities for collaborations and new value from our extensive library of award-winning film and television content.”
The deal gave ViacomCBS/Paramount access to nearly 800 titles including “Pulp Fiction,” “Shakespeare in Love” and “Good Will Hunting.” BeIN retains a 51% stake in the company,...
- 6/24/2020
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
After playing a key role in ViacomCBS’ 49% stake in beIN Media Group’s Miramax, the latter’s Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel, Bob Osher, is stepping back.
We hear that Osher’s exit from Miramax was always part of the plan in the closing of the ViacomCBS-Miramax deal.
ViacomCBS shelled out $150 million of the $375 million pricetag when they closed the Miramax deal back in April. The media conglomerate is committed to investing $225 million – comprised of $45 million annually over the next five years – to be used for new film and television productions and working capital.
Paramount Pictures also entered into an exclusive, long-term distribution agreement for Miramax’s film library and an exclusive, long-term first-look agreement allowing Paramount Pictures to develop, produce, finance and distribute new film and television projects based on Miramax IP.
Said Miramax CEO Bill Block in statement about Osher’s departure, “We are grateful for...
We hear that Osher’s exit from Miramax was always part of the plan in the closing of the ViacomCBS-Miramax deal.
ViacomCBS shelled out $150 million of the $375 million pricetag when they closed the Miramax deal back in April. The media conglomerate is committed to investing $225 million – comprised of $45 million annually over the next five years – to be used for new film and television productions and working capital.
Paramount Pictures also entered into an exclusive, long-term distribution agreement for Miramax’s film library and an exclusive, long-term first-look agreement allowing Paramount Pictures to develop, produce, finance and distribute new film and television projects based on Miramax IP.
Said Miramax CEO Bill Block in statement about Osher’s departure, “We are grateful for...
- 6/24/2020
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Miramax’s chief operating officer, Bob Osher, will step back from the company after the completion of ViacomCBS/Paramount’s acquisition of almost half of the film company.
Osher, who was also general counsel, played a key role in securing and closing the deal, and Miramax, in its announcement, said the executive’s “unique insight and expertise was essential in these efforts surrounding the strategic partnership with ViacomCBS/Paramount.”
"We are grateful for the integral role Bob has played in advancing the company’s commitment to great storytelling and innovative television and film projects" said Miramax CEO Bill Block....
Osher, who was also general counsel, played a key role in securing and closing the deal, and Miramax, in its announcement, said the executive’s “unique insight and expertise was essential in these efforts surrounding the strategic partnership with ViacomCBS/Paramount.”
"We are grateful for the integral role Bob has played in advancing the company’s commitment to great storytelling and innovative television and film projects" said Miramax CEO Bill Block....
- 6/24/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Miramax’s chief operating officer, Bob Osher, will step back from the company after the completion of ViacomCBS/Paramount’s acquisition of almost half of the film company.
Osher, who was also general counsel, played a key role in securing and closing the deal, and Miramax, in its announcement, said the executive’s “unique insight and expertise was essential in these efforts surrounding the strategic partnership with ViacomCBS/Paramount.”
"We are grateful for the integral role Bob has played in advancing the company’s commitment to great storytelling and innovative television and film projects" said Miramax CEO Bill Block....
Osher, who was also general counsel, played a key role in securing and closing the deal, and Miramax, in its announcement, said the executive’s “unique insight and expertise was essential in these efforts surrounding the strategic partnership with ViacomCBS/Paramount.”
"We are grateful for the integral role Bob has played in advancing the company’s commitment to great storytelling and innovative television and film projects" said Miramax CEO Bill Block....
- 6/24/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Get lit in the stylish ensemble caper, The Gentlemen, a star-studded, sophisticated action-comedy written and directed by Guy Ritchie. This engaging and unpredictable film is available now on Digital, lighting up on On Demand April 14, 2020 and on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray and DVD on April 21, 2020, from STXfilms and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. Set in the underworld cannabis industry in London, Ritchie makes a grand return to his signature, kinetic style, enthralling and surprising audiences with every scene, made even more dynamic by the performances of its star-powered ensemble cast. The home release includes exclusive bonus content bringing audiences deeper into the provocative world of the film.
The Gentlemen follows American expat Mickey Pearson, who built a highly profitable marijuana empire in London. When word gets out that he’s looking to cash out of the business forever, it triggers plots, schemes, bribery and blackmail in an attempt to steal his...
The Gentlemen follows American expat Mickey Pearson, who built a highly profitable marijuana empire in London. When word gets out that he’s looking to cash out of the business forever, it triggers plots, schemes, bribery and blackmail in an attempt to steal his...
- 4/7/2020
- by ComicMix Staff
- Comicmix.com
In today’s film news roundup, Fox Searchlight starts a shorts channel, Uma Thurman signs with ICM and Miramax signs animation exec Michael Lachance.
Searchlight Shorts
Fox Searchlight Pictures’ chairmen Nancy Utley and Stephen Gilula have announced the launch of “Searchlight Shorts” as a collection of short films.
The shorts are available on Fox Searchlight’s YouTube channel and “Searchlight Shorts” Facebook page. The first film to be released on the Fox Searchlight social media channels is the recent best live action short Oscar winner “Skin,” in which a young boy has an innocent encounter with an African American man at a supermarket and his parents react to the exchange with racial violence.
Other short films to be featured include “Feathers” and “Birdie,” which were acquired in late 2018; “Lavender,” which made its premiere at Sundance earlier this year; and the recently acquired “Sew Torn.” Fox Searchlight plans to release a...
Searchlight Shorts
Fox Searchlight Pictures’ chairmen Nancy Utley and Stephen Gilula have announced the launch of “Searchlight Shorts” as a collection of short films.
The shorts are available on Fox Searchlight’s YouTube channel and “Searchlight Shorts” Facebook page. The first film to be released on the Fox Searchlight social media channels is the recent best live action short Oscar winner “Skin,” in which a young boy has an innocent encounter with an African American man at a supermarket and his parents react to the exchange with racial violence.
Other short films to be featured include “Feathers” and “Birdie,” which were acquired in late 2018; “Lavender,” which made its premiere at Sundance earlier this year; and the recently acquired “Sew Torn.” Fox Searchlight plans to release a...
- 3/19/2019
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
Michael Lachance is joining Miramax as executive vp of its newly created Family & Animation division, it was announced today by Miramax CEO Bill Block. Lachance will head the creative direction of the division, overseen by chief operating officer and general counsel Bob Osher.
Most recently, Lachance was senior vp creative development at Sony Pictures Animation, where he was involved in the development of Hotel Transylvania, Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2 and the Smurfs franchise.
Before that, he was a senior development executive at DreamWorks Animation, where he had a hand in such films as Kung Fu ...
Most recently, Lachance was senior vp creative development at Sony Pictures Animation, where he was involved in the development of Hotel Transylvania, Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2 and the Smurfs franchise.
Before that, he was a senior development executive at DreamWorks Animation, where he had a hand in such films as Kung Fu ...
- 3/19/2019
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Michael Lachance is joining Miramax as executive vp of its newly created Family & Animation division, it was announced today by Miramax CEO Bill Block. Lachance will head the creative direction of the division, overseen by chief operating officer and general counsel Bob Osher.
Most recently, Lachance was senior vp creative development at Sony Pictures Animation, where he was involved in the development of Hotel Transylvania, Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2 and the Smurfs franchise.
Before that, he was a senior development executive at DreamWorks Animation, where he had a hand in such films as Kung Fu ...
Most recently, Lachance was senior vp creative development at Sony Pictures Animation, where he was involved in the development of Hotel Transylvania, Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2 and the Smurfs franchise.
Before that, he was a senior development executive at DreamWorks Animation, where he had a hand in such films as Kung Fu ...
- 3/19/2019
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Exclusive: Industry veteran Michael Lachance has joined Miramax as Evp of its newly created Family & Animation division. He will oversee the creative direction of the unit, reporting to COO and general counsel Bob Osher.
Lachance had been Svp Creative Development at Sony Pictures Animation, where he developed such hits as Hotel Transylvania and its sequel, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2 and the Smurfs franchise.
Lachance has more than 20 years of experience in the entertainment industry. Before his stint at Sony, Lachance was a senior development executive at DreamWorks Animation, where he conceived the original idea for Kung Fu Panda. He also spearheaded the development of such animated hits as Madagascar, Shark Tale, Monsters vs. Aliens, Shrek 2 and Shrek the Third.
“We are very fortunate to have Mike join us and we look forward to his creative leadership to expand the Miramax content offering,” said Miramax CEO Bill Block,...
Lachance had been Svp Creative Development at Sony Pictures Animation, where he developed such hits as Hotel Transylvania and its sequel, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2 and the Smurfs franchise.
Lachance has more than 20 years of experience in the entertainment industry. Before his stint at Sony, Lachance was a senior development executive at DreamWorks Animation, where he conceived the original idea for Kung Fu Panda. He also spearheaded the development of such animated hits as Madagascar, Shark Tale, Monsters vs. Aliens, Shrek 2 and Shrek the Third.
“We are very fortunate to have Mike join us and we look forward to his creative leadership to expand the Miramax content offering,” said Miramax CEO Bill Block,...
- 3/18/2019
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
Studio developed Hotel Transylvania, Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs 2, The Smurfs.
In a coup for Miramax, the company has hired Michael Lachance as executive vice-president of its newly created family & animation division.
Lachance, a studio executive and writer with more than 20 years of experience who most recently served as senior vice-president of creative development at Sony Pictures Animation (Spa), will oversee the creative direction of the division under Bob Osher.
During his tenure at Spa, Lachance developed the global animated hits Hotel Transylvania and its sequel, Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs 2 and The Smurfs franchise.
“We are...
In a coup for Miramax, the company has hired Michael Lachance as executive vice-president of its newly created family & animation division.
Lachance, a studio executive and writer with more than 20 years of experience who most recently served as senior vice-president of creative development at Sony Pictures Animation (Spa), will oversee the creative direction of the division under Bob Osher.
During his tenure at Spa, Lachance developed the global animated hits Hotel Transylvania and its sequel, Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs 2 and The Smurfs franchise.
“We are...
- 3/18/2019
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: Bill Block, CEO of Miramax, announced today that Jeremy Strong has signed onto Guy Ritchie’s Toff Guys joining Matthew McConaughey, Hugh Grant, Henry Golding, and Kate Beckinsale. Ritchie wrote the script with Marn Davies and Ivan Atkinson.
Toff Guys will explore the collision between old European wealth and the modern marijuana industrial complex with new gang entrants swarming. The feature project marks a throwback to Ritchie’s gangster pic roots laced with his signature visual kinetic style. Strong will play Cannabis Kingpin Mathew who is seeking to take control of the last lucrative illegal market in Europe.
Strong stars as Kendall Roy, the frustrated son of an entertainment media mogul who aiming to keep grips on his family’s empire in HBO’s critically acclaimed Jesse Armstrong-Adam McKay drama Succession. That series will be returning for a second season next year after premiering last summer. Next up,...
Toff Guys will explore the collision between old European wealth and the modern marijuana industrial complex with new gang entrants swarming. The feature project marks a throwback to Ritchie’s gangster pic roots laced with his signature visual kinetic style. Strong will play Cannabis Kingpin Mathew who is seeking to take control of the last lucrative illegal market in Europe.
Strong stars as Kendall Roy, the frustrated son of an entertainment media mogul who aiming to keep grips on his family’s empire in HBO’s critically acclaimed Jesse Armstrong-Adam McKay drama Succession. That series will be returning for a second season next year after premiering last summer. Next up,...
- 11/7/2018
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
McConaughey will join Henry Golding and Kate Beckinsale in the London drug gang story.
Matthew McConaughey has signed to star in Guy Ritchie’s new drug gang film Toff Guys, joining Henry Golding and Kate Beckinsale in the cast.
Backed by Miramax and set to start shooting this autumn in the UK, Toff Guys was written by Ritchie with Marn Davies and Ivan Atkinson. It explores the collision between old European money and the modern marijuana industrial complex.
Production will be supervised for Miramax by COO Bob Osher and vice president of development and production, film and TV, Matthew Anderson.
Matthew McConaughey has signed to star in Guy Ritchie’s new drug gang film Toff Guys, joining Henry Golding and Kate Beckinsale in the cast.
Backed by Miramax and set to start shooting this autumn in the UK, Toff Guys was written by Ritchie with Marn Davies and Ivan Atkinson. It explores the collision between old European money and the modern marijuana industrial complex.
Production will be supervised for Miramax by COO Bob Osher and vice president of development and production, film and TV, Matthew Anderson.
- 10/11/2018
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
McConaughey will join Henry Golding and Kate Beckinsale in the London drug gang story.
Matthew McConaughey has signed to star in Guy Ritchie’s new drug gang film Toff Guys, joining Henry Golding and Kate Beckinsale in the cast.
Backed by Miramax and set to start shooting this autumn in the UK, Toff Guys was written by Ritchie with Marn Davies and Ivan Atkinson. It explores the collision between old European money and the modern marijuana industrial complex.
Production will be supervised for Miramax by COO Bob Osher and vice president of development and production, film and TV, Matthew Anderson.
Matthew McConaughey has signed to star in Guy Ritchie’s new drug gang film Toff Guys, joining Henry Golding and Kate Beckinsale in the cast.
Backed by Miramax and set to start shooting this autumn in the UK, Toff Guys was written by Ritchie with Marn Davies and Ivan Atkinson. It explores the collision between old European money and the modern marijuana industrial complex.
Production will be supervised for Miramax by COO Bob Osher and vice president of development and production, film and TV, Matthew Anderson.
- 10/11/2018
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
Matthew McConaughey has lined up his next role, joining up with Guy Ritchie for his return to a British crime drama, “Toff Guys.”
McConaughey will star alongside Kate Beckinsale and “Crazy Rich Asians” breakout star Henry Golding in the film that’s a throwback to Ritchie’s “Snatch” and “Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels,” three individuals with knowledge of the project told TheWrap.
The film will explore the collision between old money in Europe and the modern marijuana industrial complex with new gang entrants swarming. Ritchie, who will direct and produce, wrote the script with Marn Davies and Ivan Atkinson.
Also Read: Will Smith's Genie Unleashed in Early 'Aladdin' Footage
Miramax closed a $30 million deal to finance and acquire the world rights to “Toff Guys” back in May.
“Toff Guys” is set to start shooting this fall in England. Bob Osher, COO and general counsel, and Matthew Anderson,...
McConaughey will star alongside Kate Beckinsale and “Crazy Rich Asians” breakout star Henry Golding in the film that’s a throwback to Ritchie’s “Snatch” and “Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels,” three individuals with knowledge of the project told TheWrap.
The film will explore the collision between old money in Europe and the modern marijuana industrial complex with new gang entrants swarming. Ritchie, who will direct and produce, wrote the script with Marn Davies and Ivan Atkinson.
Also Read: Will Smith's Genie Unleashed in Early 'Aladdin' Footage
Miramax closed a $30 million deal to finance and acquire the world rights to “Toff Guys” back in May.
“Toff Guys” is set to start shooting this fall in England. Bob Osher, COO and general counsel, and Matthew Anderson,...
- 10/11/2018
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Matthew McConaughey, Kate Beckinsale, Henry Golding to Star in Guy Ritchie’s ‘Toff Guys’ (Exclusive)
Guy Ritchie has tapped top-tier talent to lead his big-screen return to British crime dramas, “Toff Guys.”
Matthew McConaughey, Kate Beckinsale, and “Crazy Rich Asians” actor Henry Golding are set to star in the film.
Ritchie will direct and produce from a script he wrote with Marn Davies and Ivan Atkinson. The story explores the collision between European “old money” and the modern marijuana industry. It follows a British drug lord attempting to cash out on his highly profitable empire by selling it off to a dynasty of Oklahoma billionaires.
“McConaughey as the inside outsider with Henry and Kate will make for a thrilling Guy Ritchie ride,” said Miramax CEO Bill Block.
Miramax paid a whopping $30 million to pick up worldwide rights to the drama at the Cannes Film Festival. Production is set to start this fall in England. Bob Osher (chief operating officer and general counsel) and Matthew Anderson...
Matthew McConaughey, Kate Beckinsale, and “Crazy Rich Asians” actor Henry Golding are set to star in the film.
Ritchie will direct and produce from a script he wrote with Marn Davies and Ivan Atkinson. The story explores the collision between European “old money” and the modern marijuana industry. It follows a British drug lord attempting to cash out on his highly profitable empire by selling it off to a dynasty of Oklahoma billionaires.
“McConaughey as the inside outsider with Henry and Kate will make for a thrilling Guy Ritchie ride,” said Miramax CEO Bill Block.
Miramax paid a whopping $30 million to pick up worldwide rights to the drama at the Cannes Film Festival. Production is set to start this fall in England. Bob Osher (chief operating officer and general counsel) and Matthew Anderson...
- 10/10/2018
- by Justin Kroll
- Variety Film + TV
Joe Patrick is exiting Miramax, Variety has learned. The head of global television and digital sales had been at the indie label for eight years. He is pursuing other opportunities.
Bob Osher, Miramax’s chief operating officer and general counsel, will oversee domestic operations while London-based executives Alexandra Aldred and James Durie will continue leading the European distribution team. Bernardo Ribeiro is heading up the Latin America office and Ronda Elbanna is anchoring the Australian office.
“Joe has been a loyal member of Miramax’s team over the last 8 years and we wish him well in his next venture,” says Miramax CEO, Bill Block.
At Miramax, Patrick was involved in the sales and licensing of the Miramax library. Before joining the studio, Patrick was executive vice president at MGM Worldwide Television Group. He also was vice president at MGM Domestic Television and vice president of MGM Television Europe.
Miramax’s...
Bob Osher, Miramax’s chief operating officer and general counsel, will oversee domestic operations while London-based executives Alexandra Aldred and James Durie will continue leading the European distribution team. Bernardo Ribeiro is heading up the Latin America office and Ronda Elbanna is anchoring the Australian office.
“Joe has been a loyal member of Miramax’s team over the last 8 years and we wish him well in his next venture,” says Miramax CEO, Bill Block.
At Miramax, Patrick was involved in the sales and licensing of the Miramax library. Before joining the studio, Patrick was executive vice president at MGM Worldwide Television Group. He also was vice president at MGM Domestic Television and vice president of MGM Television Europe.
Miramax’s...
- 6/28/2018
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Osher formerly led Sony Pictures Digital Productions for seven years.
Miramax CEO said on Monday the company has hired former Sony Pictures’ digital division chief and Miramax co-president of production Bob Osher to serve as COO and General Counsel.
Osher will be part of Miramax’s new task force focusing on growing strategy in film, television, and mergers and acquisitions.
The executive led Sony Pictures Digital Productions as president for seven years, overseeing Sony Pictures Animation hits like the Hotel Transylvania, Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs, and The Smurfs franchises.
After he parted ways with Sony three years ago,...
Miramax CEO said on Monday the company has hired former Sony Pictures’ digital division chief and Miramax co-president of production Bob Osher to serve as COO and General Counsel.
Osher will be part of Miramax’s new task force focusing on growing strategy in film, television, and mergers and acquisitions.
The executive led Sony Pictures Digital Productions as president for seven years, overseeing Sony Pictures Animation hits like the Hotel Transylvania, Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs, and The Smurfs franchises.
After he parted ways with Sony three years ago,...
- 3/26/2018
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Filmmaker Genndy Tartakovsky has revealed that he's no longer involved with the CG animated feature reboot of the "Popeye" franchise at Sony Pictures.
Speaking with Moviefone in the wake of the premiere of the trailer for his "Hotel Transylvania" sequel opening later this year, the director says he's no longer a part of the film about the iconic spinach-guzzling sailor due to internal changes at the studio:
"Popeye, at least, we put up a great screening, everybody really liked that sizzle, we got a positive reaction. I was in love with what we were doing, but I think the studio is going through changes and I don't know if they want to make the Popeye that I want to make. So they’ve got to make a decision…It was hard to let Popeye go, but that's the business."
One of the big changes is that Sony Pictures Digital Productions president Bob Osher is out,...
Speaking with Moviefone in the wake of the premiere of the trailer for his "Hotel Transylvania" sequel opening later this year, the director says he's no longer a part of the film about the iconic spinach-guzzling sailor due to internal changes at the studio:
"Popeye, at least, we put up a great screening, everybody really liked that sizzle, we got a positive reaction. I was in love with what we were doing, but I think the studio is going through changes and I don't know if they want to make the Popeye that I want to make. So they’ve got to make a decision…It was hard to let Popeye go, but that's the business."
One of the big changes is that Sony Pictures Digital Productions president Bob Osher is out,...
- 3/13/2015
- by Garth Franklin
- Dark Horizons
Sony Pictures Digital Productions chief Bob Osher has been fired, an individual with knowledge of the situation told TheWrap. Sony Pictures Digital Productions (Spdp) is comprised of Sony Pictures Imageworks, Sony Pictures Post Production Services, Worldwide Product Fulfillment, Studio Operations and Asset Management. Also Read: Oscars 2015 Winners Gallery: ‘Birdman,’ ‘Grand Budapest,’ Eddie Remayne, Julianne Moore (Photos) The newest shakeup at Sony comes just days after Tom Rothman was named as Amy Pascal‘s successor as chairman of the studio’s Motion Pictures Group. In January, Sony hired Kristine Belson to be President of Sony Pictures Animation, taking the division out from under the Spdp.
- 2/26/2015
- by Linda Ge
- The Wrap
Bob Osher, the head of Sony Pictures Digital, has been let go, The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed. The move was months in the making and likely not a surprise to astute Sony watchers. That it happened the same week as Tom Rothman taking the reins from fired Amy Pascal shows that Sony is in full housecleaning mode. Osher has been with the studio since 2004. In 2008, he was named president of the digital production division of Sony Pictures Entertainment. As digital president, he ran Sony Pictures Animation and Imageworks. But in recent months, there were many signs that shifts
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- 2/26/2015
- by Borys Kit
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Sony Pictures Animation is about to bring a lot of new content to the Frederator network. The studio has teamed up with Fred Siebert's multi-channel animation network to fund 12 new short films, one of which will be picked up as a full series. The 12 shorts will form an incubator program known as Go! Cartoons, and Frederator is now accepting pitches for the project. The 12 winners will begin to roll out on Frederator's Cartoon Hangover channel beginning in fall 2015, with a new short arriving each month. At the end of that one-year period, the short Frederator and Sony choose to green-light will earn an extended stay on Cartoon Hangover. This is the first time Frederator has used an incubator project to source new material. Several of the studio's most notable TV projects--including The Powerpuff Girls, The Fairly OddParents, and Adventure Time--were born out of incubators. So too was Bee and...
- 11/3/2014
- by Sam Gutelle
- Tubefilter.com
Ghibli to give master-class at lakeside Annecy International Animation Festival.
Japanese animator Isao Takahata will make a rare international appearance this week at the 38th Annecy International Animation Festival which opens today [June 9] with The Tale of Princess Kaguya, the first feature overseen by the Studio Ghibli co-founder in more than a decade.
The 78-year animator will give a master-class at the festival on Tuesday in which he will discuss his 50-year career that began at Toei Animation in the 1970s where he met long-time collaborator and Ghibli co-founder Hayao Miyazaki.
The master-class is part of a packed programme of talks and conferences at the lakeside animation festival, running June 9-14, a key date in the calendar for professionals and students from across the animation world.
Other highlights include a sneak preview of by Monsters Inc. director Pete Docter of his upcoming Pixar-produced Inside Out. The film, probing inside the human mind, is set for...
Japanese animator Isao Takahata will make a rare international appearance this week at the 38th Annecy International Animation Festival which opens today [June 9] with The Tale of Princess Kaguya, the first feature overseen by the Studio Ghibli co-founder in more than a decade.
The 78-year animator will give a master-class at the festival on Tuesday in which he will discuss his 50-year career that began at Toei Animation in the 1970s where he met long-time collaborator and Ghibli co-founder Hayao Miyazaki.
The master-class is part of a packed programme of talks and conferences at the lakeside animation festival, running June 9-14, a key date in the calendar for professionals and students from across the animation world.
Other highlights include a sneak preview of by Monsters Inc. director Pete Docter of his upcoming Pixar-produced Inside Out. The film, probing inside the human mind, is set for...
- 6/9/2014
- ScreenDaily
Sony Pictures Animation today gave an update on their lineup of upcoming projects – which includes the animated motion picture debut of a classic comic strip figure, an original tale from one of the form’s most multi-faceted filmmakers, as well as the continued expansion of two of the studio’s most popular worlds.
Bob Osher, President of Sony Pictures Digital Productions, states, “I am really excited by the variety of our upcoming projects as well as the amazing talent working on them.”
Sony Pictures Animation has hired animation industry veteran Kelly Asbury (Shrek 2, Gnomeo & Juliet) to direct an all new, fully computer-animated film featuring the world’s most popular blue creatures. The family adventure, currently going by the working title The Untitled Smurfs Movie, is anticipated in theaters August 2015. Jordan Kerner (The Smurfs) is producing, with Mary Ellen Bauder (Hotel Transylvania) co-producing. The original two live action/CG hybrid...
Bob Osher, President of Sony Pictures Digital Productions, states, “I am really excited by the variety of our upcoming projects as well as the amazing talent working on them.”
Sony Pictures Animation has hired animation industry veteran Kelly Asbury (Shrek 2, Gnomeo & Juliet) to direct an all new, fully computer-animated film featuring the world’s most popular blue creatures. The family adventure, currently going by the working title The Untitled Smurfs Movie, is anticipated in theaters August 2015. Jordan Kerner (The Smurfs) is producing, with Mary Ellen Bauder (Hotel Transylvania) co-producing. The original two live action/CG hybrid...
- 3/12/2014
- by Michelle McCue
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Sony Pictures Animation today gave an update on their lineup of upcoming projects - which includes the animated motion picture debut of a classic comic strip figure, an original tale from one of the form's most multi-faceted filmmakers, as well as the continued expansion of two of the studio's most popular worlds. Bob Osher, President of Sony Pictures Digital Productions, states, "I am really excited by the variety of our upcoming projects as well as the amazing talent working on them." Sony Pictures Animation has hired animation industry veteran Kelly Asbury ( Shrek 2 , Gnomeo & Juliet ) to direct an all new, fully computer-animated film featuring the world.s most popular blue creatures. The family adventure, currently going by the working title The...
- 3/12/2014
- Comingsoon.net
Sunday 8 Am, 6th Update: A total of 4 major releases this weekend amounted to a soft domestic box office with total moviegoing slightly below last year’s. Sony Pictures Animation’s 3D sequel to its 2009 instant children’s classic, Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs 2, managed to meet the studio’s lowball expectations of almost $35M, ahead of the first Cloudy‘s $30.3M opening even though sequel didn’t open in IMAX like that did. Result was the 4th biggest September opener of all time, but only a so-so toon result considering the big ones should manage $40+M debuts. The ‘A-’ CinemaScore, same as the original’s, helped word of mouth for the all-important Saturday kiddie bump which amounted to +63% over Friday since parents and their offspring lately have been underserved in the marketplace. Of course, it was also a massive release compared to the middling runs of the other newcomers this weekend.
- 9/29/2013
- by NIKKI FINKE, Editor in Chief
- Deadline Hollywood
Andrew Z Davis has been named president of production administration at Columbia Pictures, replacing Gary Martin, who retires after overseeing production on more than 600 films and serving 51 years in the industry – 32 of them at Columbia.
Davis will oversee all aspects of physical production including post-production and visual effects for all Columbia Pictures films as well as live-action portions of films from Sony Pictures Animation.
Reporting to Columbia Pictures president Doug Belgrad, he will work closely with president of worldwide business affairs and operations Andrew Gumpert, president of production Hannah Minghella and Sony Pictures Digital Productions president Bob Osher.
Columbia’s physical production, post-production and visual effects executives report to Davis, who oversaw physical production at MGM from 2003 to 2005 before returning to producing.
“We are thrilled to welcome Andy to our team,” said Belgrad. “As both an executive and a producer, he has extraordinary skill and enormous experience and he brings with him a disciplined and cost conscious...
Davis will oversee all aspects of physical production including post-production and visual effects for all Columbia Pictures films as well as live-action portions of films from Sony Pictures Animation.
Reporting to Columbia Pictures president Doug Belgrad, he will work closely with president of worldwide business affairs and operations Andrew Gumpert, president of production Hannah Minghella and Sony Pictures Digital Productions president Bob Osher.
Columbia’s physical production, post-production and visual effects executives report to Davis, who oversaw physical production at MGM from 2003 to 2005 before returning to producing.
“We are thrilled to welcome Andy to our team,” said Belgrad. “As both an executive and a producer, he has extraordinary skill and enormous experience and he brings with him a disciplined and cost conscious...
- 6/12/2013
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Andrew Z Davis has been named president of production administration at Columbia Pictures, replacing Gary Martin, who retires after overseeing production on more than 600 films and serving 51 years in the industry – 32 of them at Columbia.
Davis will oversee all aspects of physical production including post-production and visual effects for all Columbia Pictures films as well as live-action portions of films from Sony Pictures Animation.
Reporting to Columbia Pictures president Doug Belgrad, he will work closely with president of worldwide business affairs and operations Andrew Gumpert, president of production Hannah Minghella and Sony Pictures Digital Productions president Bob Osher.
Columbia’s physical production, post-production and visual effects executives report to Davis, who oversaw physical production at MGM from 2003 to 2005 before returning to producing.
“We are thrilled to welcome Andy to our team,” said Belgrad. “As both an executive and a producer, he has extraordinary skill and enormous experience and he brings with him a disciplined and cost conscious...
Davis will oversee all aspects of physical production including post-production and visual effects for all Columbia Pictures films as well as live-action portions of films from Sony Pictures Animation.
Reporting to Columbia Pictures president Doug Belgrad, he will work closely with president of worldwide business affairs and operations Andrew Gumpert, president of production Hannah Minghella and Sony Pictures Digital Productions president Bob Osher.
Columbia’s physical production, post-production and visual effects executives report to Davis, who oversaw physical production at MGM from 2003 to 2005 before returning to producing.
“We are thrilled to welcome Andy to our team,” said Belgrad. “As both an executive and a producer, he has extraordinary skill and enormous experience and he brings with him a disciplined and cost conscious...
- 6/12/2013
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Andrew Z Davis has been named president of production administration at Columbia Pictures, replacing Gary Martin, who retires after overseeing production on more than 600 films and serving 51 years in the industry – 32 of them at Columbia.
Davis will oversee all aspects of physical production including post-production and visual effects for all Columbia Pictures films as well as live-action portions of films from Sony Pictures Animation.
Reporting to Columbia Pictures president Doug Belgrad, he will work closely with president of worldwide business affairs and operations Andrew Gumpert, president of production Hannah Minghella and Sony Pictures Digital Productions president Bob Osher.
Columbia’s physical production, post-production and visual effects executives report to Davis, who oversaw physical production at MGM from 2003 to 2005 before returning to producing.
“We are thrilled to welcome Andy to our team,” said Belgrad. “As both an executive and a producer, he has extraordinary skill and enormous experience and he brings with him a disciplined and cost conscious...
Davis will oversee all aspects of physical production including post-production and visual effects for all Columbia Pictures films as well as live-action portions of films from Sony Pictures Animation.
Reporting to Columbia Pictures president Doug Belgrad, he will work closely with president of worldwide business affairs and operations Andrew Gumpert, president of production Hannah Minghella and Sony Pictures Digital Productions president Bob Osher.
Columbia’s physical production, post-production and visual effects executives report to Davis, who oversaw physical production at MGM from 2003 to 2005 before returning to producing.
“We are thrilled to welcome Andy to our team,” said Belgrad. “As both an executive and a producer, he has extraordinary skill and enormous experience and he brings with him a disciplined and cost conscious...
- 6/12/2013
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Andrew Z. Davis has been named president of production administration for Columbia Pictures, it was announced Wednesday by Columbia Pictures president Doug Belgrad, to whom Davis will report. Davis, who oversaw physical production at MGM from 2003 to 2005, will supervise all aspects of physical production, including post production and visual effects for all Columbia Pictures films as well as live-action portions of films from Sony Pictures Animation. He will work closely with Andrew Gumpert, president of worldwide business affairs and operations; Hannah Minghella, president of production; and Bob Osher, Sony Pictures Digital Productions president. Columbia Pictures' physical production, post
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- 6/12/2013
- by Gregg Kilday
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: Sony has finally found its replacement for Gary Martin, who stepped down in January from his longtime dual posts as President, Production Administration, Columbia TriStar Motion Picture Group and President, Sony Pictures Studios Operations. (Sony even renamed the studio’s Stage 15 as “The Gary Martin Sound Stage”.) Veteran producer Andrew Z. Davis has been tapped as President of Production Administration for Columbia Pictures, where he will supervise all aspects of physical production including postproduction and visual effects for all Columbia films as well as live-action portions of films from Sony Pictures Animation. He will work with President of Worldwide Business Affairs and Operations Andrew Gumpert, President of Production Hannah Minghella and Sony Pictures Digital Productions President Bob Osher and report to Columbia president Doug Belgrad. Davis oversaw physical production at MGM from 2003-2005, then returned to producing. His recent credits include the Justin Timberlake-starrer In Time and the...
- 6/12/2013
- by MIKE FLEMING JR
- Deadline
Sony Pictures Digital Productions is bringing the studio’s sound department and Colorworks postproduction facility under its umbrella. Spdp -- which also encompasses Sony Pictures Animation and Sony Pictures Imageworks -- now will include visual effects and computer animation, sound mixing and editorial and digital mastering, color grading, and film restoration. Spdp president Bob Osher and Sony Pictures Imageworks executive vp and Gm Randy Lake will work closely with the sound department’s Richard Branca and Tom McCarthy and Colorworks’ Chris Holt in managing the studio’s combined operations. Story: SXSW: 5 Tech Terms to Sound Like an Insider These changes come following the announcement that Gary Martin, president of operations
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- 3/7/2013
- by Carolyn Giardina
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
TV animation ‘god’, Genndy Tartakovsky, is making his feature directorial debut with Hotel Transylvania, opening later this month from Sony Pictures Animation. The filmmaker revealed that Sony has expressed some interest in making a 2D animated Samurai Jack movie, based on his widely beloved TV series.
“I’ve been trying so hard every year, and the one amazing thing about Jack is that I did it in 2001, you know, and it still survived. There’s something about it that’s connected with people. And I want it, it’s number 1 on my list, and now Bob Osher, the President of Digital Production at Sony Picture Entertainment, is like ‘Hey, let’s talk about Jack. Let’s see what we can do.’ And I go, ‘You’re going to do a 2D feature animated movie?’ and he’s like, ‘Yeah. Maybe. Let’s do some research and let’s see.’ So...
“I’ve been trying so hard every year, and the one amazing thing about Jack is that I did it in 2001, you know, and it still survived. There’s something about it that’s connected with people. And I want it, it’s number 1 on my list, and now Bob Osher, the President of Digital Production at Sony Picture Entertainment, is like ‘Hey, let’s talk about Jack. Let’s see what we can do.’ And I go, ‘You’re going to do a 2D feature animated movie?’ and he’s like, ‘Yeah. Maybe. Let’s do some research and let’s see.’ So...
- 9/25/2012
- by Sunrider
- Filmofilia
Fans of Cartoon Network’s Samurai Jack have been clamoring for film based on the TV show for ages, and now that creator Genndy Tartakovsky has inked a long-term deal with Sony Pictures Entertainment, there’s been some renewed talk on the subject.
IGN spoke with the cartoon creator while he was out promoting his new film Hotel Transylvania at the Toronto International Film Festival and his words have to be considered encouraging:
“I’ve been trying so hard every year, and the one amazing thing about Jack is that I did it in 2001, you know, and it still survived. There’s something about it that’s connected with people. And I want it, it’s number 1 on my list, and now Bob Osher, the President (of Digital Production at Sony Picture Entertainment), is like ‘Hey, let’s talk about Jack. Let’s see what we can do.’ And I go,...
IGN spoke with the cartoon creator while he was out promoting his new film Hotel Transylvania at the Toronto International Film Festival and his words have to be considered encouraging:
“I’ve been trying so hard every year, and the one amazing thing about Jack is that I did it in 2001, you know, and it still survived. There’s something about it that’s connected with people. And I want it, it’s number 1 on my list, and now Bob Osher, the President (of Digital Production at Sony Picture Entertainment), is like ‘Hey, let’s talk about Jack. Let’s see what we can do.’ And I go,...
- 9/13/2012
- by Steven Chaitman
- We Got This Covered
Genndy Tartakovsky has been try to make a big screen adaptation of one of his greatest creations, Samurai Jack, for years. It's something I'd love to see eventually happen, so it's good to know that Tartakovsky has not given up on the project. In fact, it's at the top of his list of things to do! Here's what he had to say in an interview with IGN,
I've been trying so hard every year, and the one amazing thing about Jack is that I did it in 2001, you know, and it still survived. There's something about it that's connected with people. And I want it, it's number 1 on my list, and now Bob Osher, the President (of Digital Production at Sony Picture Entertainment), is like 'Hey, let's talk about Jack. Let's see what we can do.' And I go, 'You're going to do a 2D feature animated movie?' and he's like,...
I've been trying so hard every year, and the one amazing thing about Jack is that I did it in 2001, you know, and it still survived. There's something about it that's connected with people. And I want it, it's number 1 on my list, and now Bob Osher, the President (of Digital Production at Sony Picture Entertainment), is like 'Hey, let's talk about Jack. Let's see what we can do.' And I go, 'You're going to do a 2D feature animated movie?' and he's like,...
- 9/12/2012
- by Joey Paur
- GeekTyrant
Genndy Tartakovsky (upcoming Hotel Transylvania ) is one of the most creative minds in animation these days and we're a big fan of his work. Needless to say, the prospect of a "Samurai Jack" film would be something we really want to see. In an interview with IGN , the question was posed about whether we would eventually see the long talked about film. He said: .I've been trying so hard every year, and the one amazing thing about Jack is that I did it in 2001, you know, and it still survived. There's something about it that's connected with people. And I want it, it's number 1 on my list, and now Bob Osher, the President (of Digital Production at Sony Picture Entertainment), is like 'Hey, let's talk about Jack. Let's see what we can do.' And...
- 9/12/2012
- Comingsoon.net
The forecast is sunny side up for Sony Pictures Animation as the studio has reassembled the all-star, comedy voice cast of the animated hit Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs for Cloudy 2: Revenge of the Leftovers, set for release in 3D on February 7, 2014. The first Cloudy film took in $243 million worldwide.
The sequel is directed by Cody Cameron (whose story artist credits include Shrek, Madagascar , Surf’s Up and Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs) & Kris Pearn (head of story on Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs and story supervisor on Arthur Christmas ) and produced by longtime Sony Pictures Animation producer Kirk Bodyfelt.
The lead voice cast from the first film returns, including Bill Hader (Saturday Night Live, Men In Black 3) as inventor Flint Lockwood; Anna Faris (Scary Movie, The House Bunny) as brainy weather girl Sam Sparks; James Caan (The Godfather, Elf) as Flint’s technophobic dad,...
The sequel is directed by Cody Cameron (whose story artist credits include Shrek, Madagascar , Surf’s Up and Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs) & Kris Pearn (head of story on Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs and story supervisor on Arthur Christmas ) and produced by longtime Sony Pictures Animation producer Kirk Bodyfelt.
The lead voice cast from the first film returns, including Bill Hader (Saturday Night Live, Men In Black 3) as inventor Flint Lockwood; Anna Faris (Scary Movie, The House Bunny) as brainy weather girl Sam Sparks; James Caan (The Godfather, Elf) as Flint’s technophobic dad,...
- 8/22/2012
- by Allan Ford
- Filmofilia
The forecast is sunny side up for Sony Pictures Animation as the studio has reassembled the all-star, comedy voice cast of the animated hit Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs for Cloudy 2: Revenge of the Leftovers, set for release in 3D on February 7, 2014. The first Cloudy film took in $243 million worldwide. The sequel is directed by Cody Cameron (whose story artist credits include Shrek, Madagascar, Surf’s Up and Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs) & Kris Pearn (head of story on Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs and story supervisor on Arthur Christmas) and produced by longtime Sony Pictures Animation producer Kirk Bodyfelt.
The lead voice cast from the first film returns, including Bill Hader (Saturday Night Live, Men In Black 3) as inventor Flint Lockwood; Anna Faris (Scary Movie, The House Bunny) as brainy weather girl Sam Sparks; James Caan (The Godfather, Elf) as Flint’s technophobic dad,...
The lead voice cast from the first film returns, including Bill Hader (Saturday Night Live, Men In Black 3) as inventor Flint Lockwood; Anna Faris (Scary Movie, The House Bunny) as brainy weather girl Sam Sparks; James Caan (The Godfather, Elf) as Flint’s technophobic dad,...
- 8/21/2012
- by Michelle McCue
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Sony Pictures Animation continues to expand its stable of talented filmmakers with the signing of three-time Emmy Award winner Genndy Tartakovsky (Dexter’s Laboratory, Samurai Jack, Star Wars: Clone Wars) to an overall agreement that extends beyond his current directorial film debut of Hotel Transylvania to include development and direction of his own projects, as well as an all-new take on Popeye. The deal was announced today by Bob Osher, President of Sony Pictures Digital Productions, and Michelle Raimo-Kouyate, President of Production, Sony Pictures Animation.
“Sony Pictures Animation is committed to attracting - and keeping - industry visionaries with the creative instincts to craft the style of vibrant storytelling that has been our trademark for 10 memorable years,” says Osher. “I have known Genndy since his Hanna-Barbera days and am thrilled we are continuing the relationship with him. This is a very exciting collaboration, one that should yield wonderful animated...
“Sony Pictures Animation is committed to attracting - and keeping - industry visionaries with the creative instincts to craft the style of vibrant storytelling that has been our trademark for 10 memorable years,” says Osher. “I have known Genndy since his Hanna-Barbera days and am thrilled we are continuing the relationship with him. This is a very exciting collaboration, one that should yield wonderful animated...
- 7/11/2012
- by Michelle McCue
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Sony Pictures Animation has announced an overall deal with Hotel Transylvania and Popeye director Genndy Tartakovsky: Sony Pictures Animation continues to expand its stable of talented filmmakers with the signing of three-time Emmy Award winner Genndy Tartakovsky (Dexter.s Laboratory, Samurai Jack, Star Wars: Clone Wars) to an overall agreement that extends beyond his current directorial film debut of Hotel Transylvania to include development and direction of his own projects, as well as an all-new take on Popeye. The deal was announced today by Bob Osher, President of Sony Pictures Digital Productions, and Michelle Raimo-Kouyate, President of Production, Sony Pictures Animation. .Sony Pictures Animation is committed to attracting . and keeping . industry visionaries with...
- 7/11/2012
- Comingsoon.net
Logic would dictate that since Battleship sunk at the box office earlier this summer, any and all future movies based on board games or toys should be put out of their misery. Unfortunately, logic is in short supply in Hollywood these days, because the madness continues. This week Hasbro has announced another new project being set up at Sony Pictures, not based on a board game, but rather a very well-known toy line. That's right... Tonka Trucks are about to get their very own feature film and Adam Sandler’s Happy Madison Productions will be helping to make it a reality. Here's what Sony Pictures Digital Productions president Bob Osher had to say about the movie: "In its 65 years, Tonka has become more than a toy or a brand; Tonka trucks are a rite of passage for kids all around the world... Time spent with these toys creates memories that...
- 6/13/2012
- by Sean
- FilmJunk
You would think that toymaker Hasbro and their various movie-making partners would have learned their lesson after the less than stellar box office performance of Battleship. That lesson being, nobody wants to see a movie about an inanimate object that has no pre-established characters, stories, or mythology. Clearly no lesson has been learned, however, because a press release put out by Sony Pictures today brings us just about the worst news ever. It seems that Sony is teaming up with Hasbro and Adam Sandler’s production company Happy Madison to bring us an animated feature version of Tonka trucks. Yes, you read that right: Adam Sandler’s buddies are going to make a movie about plastic toy trucks. Seeing as Sony is already in the process of developing feature films for other Hasbro properties like Risk and Candy Land, the fact that a toy truck movie is going to be coming our way soon shouldn’t come...
- 6/12/2012
- by Nathan Adams
- FilmSchoolRejects.com
Hasbro is teaming up with Sony Pictures to bring Tonka Trucks to the big screen! Tonka Trucks were pretty badass back in the day. I had one when I was a kid, and I beat the hell out of it. I don't know if you've seen any Tonka toys today, but they aren't as badass as they use to be. Sony will team up with Adam Sandler's Happy Madison Productions and adapt the brand into an animated feature film. They are also working on developing films for Hasbro’s Candy Land for Sony. The studio is also working on bringing Hasbro’s Risk to the big screen as well.
Since Universal Pictures bombed with Battleship, they've stopped working all of their Hasbro projects like Stretch Armstrong, Clue, Monopoly, and Magic, The Gathering. Maybe they should have made a better Battleship movie. It's not the brands fault; it's the studio's.
Since Universal Pictures bombed with Battleship, they've stopped working all of their Hasbro projects like Stretch Armstrong, Clue, Monopoly, and Magic, The Gathering. Maybe they should have made a better Battleship movie. It's not the brands fault; it's the studio's.
- 6/11/2012
- by Venkman
- GeekTyrant
Tonka trucks are to star in their own big screen adventure, it was revealed today. The animated project, which is to be co-produced by Adam Sandler’s company Happy Madison, is described by Sony's Bob Osher as "a family friendly motion picture that brings the Tonka experience to life." I Want Candy writer Fred Wolf is working on the script but as yet no director has been named.
If you thought Battleship was stretching a game concept too far, it's time to brace yourself for a host of similar projects. As Hasbro also look into adapting their more grown-up game Risk, Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs directors Phil Lord and Chris Miller are working on a film about lego. They have lots of visual ideas and describe it as very much action-based but there is still no word on what the plot will involve.
Some directors, however, know what toys are.
If you thought Battleship was stretching a game concept too far, it's time to brace yourself for a host of similar projects. As Hasbro also look into adapting their more grown-up game Risk, Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs directors Phil Lord and Chris Miller are working on a film about lego. They have lots of visual ideas and describe it as very much action-based but there is still no word on what the plot will involve.
Some directors, however, know what toys are.
- 6/11/2012
- by Jennie Kermode
- eyeforfilm.co.uk
"Battleship" may not have been quite the home run Hasbro was hoping for, but that's not stopping the toy company from going full steam ahead with more film projects alongside their Hollywood partner, Sony.
Case in point: According to The Hollywood Reporter, Hasbro and Sony are teaming up with Adam Sandler's Happy Madison production company to develop a big screen story around their popular Tonka Trucks line.
Hey, at least if this one takes a dump at the box office like "Battleship" did, they'll be ready to haul it away.
Of course, Hasbro and Sony are hoping to recapture the lightning in a bottle of the multi-billion dollar toy-to-film journey "Transformers" went on last decade. And "Tonka Trucks" isn't the only property they are developing; "Risk" and Candy Land" are also currently being turned into movies as well.
But for millions of kids (and former kids), Tonka Trucks hold...
Case in point: According to The Hollywood Reporter, Hasbro and Sony are teaming up with Adam Sandler's Happy Madison production company to develop a big screen story around their popular Tonka Trucks line.
Hey, at least if this one takes a dump at the box office like "Battleship" did, they'll be ready to haul it away.
Of course, Hasbro and Sony are hoping to recapture the lightning in a bottle of the multi-billion dollar toy-to-film journey "Transformers" went on last decade. And "Tonka Trucks" isn't the only property they are developing; "Risk" and Candy Land" are also currently being turned into movies as well.
But for millions of kids (and former kids), Tonka Trucks hold...
- 6/11/2012
- by Scott Harris
- NextMovie
First there was Candy Land, and now we have Tonka. To think: People have always said Adam Sandler doesn’t have enough originality in his films.
A press release (via THR) has announced that his Happy Madison Productions will team with Sony Animation and Hasbro for this new film, which Sony’s Bob Osher hopes will be both “multi-generational” and “a family friendly motion picture that brings the Tonka experience to life”; translating that experience into a screenplay will be Fred Wolf, a man best-known for his work on Grown Ups and Strange Wilderness.
And, well, there isn’t really much else to be said. If anything, I find it just a tad interesting to note how Sandler gets further into animation as his career develops — in a few months, for instance, those with sufficient interest can see him take another swing with Genndy Tartakovsky‘s Hotel Transylvania. I don...
A press release (via THR) has announced that his Happy Madison Productions will team with Sony Animation and Hasbro for this new film, which Sony’s Bob Osher hopes will be both “multi-generational” and “a family friendly motion picture that brings the Tonka experience to life”; translating that experience into a screenplay will be Fred Wolf, a man best-known for his work on Grown Ups and Strange Wilderness.
And, well, there isn’t really much else to be said. If anything, I find it just a tad interesting to note how Sandler gets further into animation as his career develops — in a few months, for instance, those with sufficient interest can see him take another swing with Genndy Tartakovsky‘s Hotel Transylvania. I don...
- 6/11/2012
- by jpraup@gmail.com (thefilmstage.com)
- The Film Stage
Tonka, the Hasbro brand that for 65 years has stood for its line of toy trucks for children, will bring its Tonka toughness to the big screen in a fully animated motion picture to be produced by Sony Pictures Animation, Hasbro and Happy Madison Productions. The announcement was made today by Bob Osher, president, Sony Pictures Digital Productions, Michelle Raimo-Kouyate, president of Production for Sony Pictures Animation and Brian Goldner, president and CEO of Hasbro. The film will also be produced and developed by Goldner and Hasbro’s senior vice president and managing director of motion pictures, Bennett Schneir and will be written by Fred Wolf.
The new Tonka project strengthens the growing ties between Sony Pictures and Hasbro, following the announcements that Sony Pictures is developing motion pictures based on Hasbro’s Risk and Candy Land brands. Candy Land is also a Happy Madison project.
Commenting on the announcement,...
The new Tonka project strengthens the growing ties between Sony Pictures and Hasbro, following the announcements that Sony Pictures is developing motion pictures based on Hasbro’s Risk and Candy Land brands. Candy Land is also a Happy Madison project.
Commenting on the announcement,...
- 6/11/2012
- by Michelle McCue
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Sony Pictures Animation will make a movie based on Hasbro's Tonka Trucks franchise in collaboration with Happy Madison Productions. The animated film further binds Sony with Hasbro, as the two are producing films based on a pair of board games – "Risk" and "Candy Land." The latter is also a Happy Madison project. "In its 65 years, Tonka has become more than a toy or a brand – Tonka trucks are a rite of passage for kids all around the world," Bob Osher, president of Sony Pictures Digital Productions, said in a...
- 6/11/2012
- by Lucas Shaw
- The Wrap
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