Sue Naegle and Ali Krug are in business with Universal Studio Group’s UCP.
The Emmy-winning pair has signed an overall deal with the Universal division through which their newly established Dinner Party Productions will develop and produce series.
This marks the first time former UTA, HBO Entertainment and Annapurna Pictures boss Naegle has worked directly with Universal. She exited her Chief Content Officer role at Annapurna in 2022. As we reported at the time, Krug had initially taken over her TV division responsibilities, but has since reunited with her former boss and long-time production partner to launch Dinner Party.
In development is a series adaptation of Elon Hilderbrand’s novel ‘The Five-Star Weekend’ for Universal’s sister streamer Peacock, with Bekah Brunstetter penning the script. The book follows a popular food blogger, who, after a tragedy, brings friends from distinct times in her life to spend a weekend in Nantucket.
The Emmy-winning pair has signed an overall deal with the Universal division through which their newly established Dinner Party Productions will develop and produce series.
This marks the first time former UTA, HBO Entertainment and Annapurna Pictures boss Naegle has worked directly with Universal. She exited her Chief Content Officer role at Annapurna in 2022. As we reported at the time, Krug had initially taken over her TV division responsibilities, but has since reunited with her former boss and long-time production partner to launch Dinner Party.
In development is a series adaptation of Elon Hilderbrand’s novel ‘The Five-Star Weekend’ for Universal’s sister streamer Peacock, with Bekah Brunstetter penning the script. The book follows a popular food blogger, who, after a tragedy, brings friends from distinct times in her life to spend a weekend in Nantucket.
- 4/9/2024
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Are you ready to be lured by Sirens?
Netflix has announced the new limited series from Maid showrunner and writer Molly Smith Metzler as the first project from Metzler’s creative partnership with the studio — and it sounds like we’ll get a good dose of rich people behaving badly.
The dark comedy will follow Devon, who’s concerned about her sister Simone’s creepy relationship with her new employer, the mysterious socialite Michaela Kell. Michaela’s cultish, ultra-luxurious lifestyle is like a drug to Simone, and Devon thinks it’s time for an intervention. When Devon tracks her sister down to find out Wtf is going on, she underestimates what you’re in for when you have Michaela as an enemy.
Told over the course of a drama-filled weekend at the Kells’ lavish beach estate, Sirens is an incisive, sexy, and darkly funny exploration of women, power, and class.
Netflix has announced the new limited series from Maid showrunner and writer Molly Smith Metzler as the first project from Metzler’s creative partnership with the studio — and it sounds like we’ll get a good dose of rich people behaving badly.
The dark comedy will follow Devon, who’s concerned about her sister Simone’s creepy relationship with her new employer, the mysterious socialite Michaela Kell. Michaela’s cultish, ultra-luxurious lifestyle is like a drug to Simone, and Devon thinks it’s time for an intervention. When Devon tracks her sister down to find out Wtf is going on, she underestimates what you’re in for when you have Michaela as an enemy.
Told over the course of a drama-filled weekend at the Kells’ lavish beach estate, Sirens is an incisive, sexy, and darkly funny exploration of women, power, and class.
- 2/21/2024
- by Stephan Lee
- Tudum - Netflix
Netflix has greenlit the next project from Maid creator and showrunner Molly Smith Metzler.
The streamer has ordered Sirens, a limited series that’s described as a dark comedy that explores “women, power and class.” The series comes from Margot Robbie’s LuckyChap banner (which also produced Maid), and the Barbie star and producer is an executive producer.
Sirens is based on Metzler’s play Elemeno Pea, which she wrote during her time as a student at Juilliard. It centers on two sisters, Devon and Simone, and Devon’s concern that Simone has an unhealthy relationship with her new boss, socialite Michaela Kell. According to the show’s logline, “Michaela’s cult-ish life of luxury is like a drug to Simone, and Devon has decided it’s time for an intervention. When Devon tracks her sister down to say Wtf, she has no idea what a formidable opponent Michaela will be.
The streamer has ordered Sirens, a limited series that’s described as a dark comedy that explores “women, power and class.” The series comes from Margot Robbie’s LuckyChap banner (which also produced Maid), and the Barbie star and producer is an executive producer.
Sirens is based on Metzler’s play Elemeno Pea, which she wrote during her time as a student at Juilliard. It centers on two sisters, Devon and Simone, and Devon’s concern that Simone has an unhealthy relationship with her new boss, socialite Michaela Kell. According to the show’s logline, “Michaela’s cult-ish life of luxury is like a drug to Simone, and Devon has decided it’s time for an intervention. When Devon tracks her sister down to say Wtf, she has no idea what a formidable opponent Michaela will be.
- 2/21/2024
- by Rick Porter
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Netflix has ordered the limited series “Sirens,” a female-driven dark comedy from “Maid” writer and showrunner Molly Smith Metzler and executive produced by LuckyChap.
The new series is the first under Metzler’s multi-year overall deal with Netflix, announced in February 2022 following the massive success of “Maid.” The series — starring Margaret Qualley and produced by LuckyChap, as well as John Wells Productions — debuted on the streamer in October 2021, where it spent 14 weeks on the streamer’s global Top 10 TV list and reached the Top 10 in 93 countries. “Maid” was also a critical hit, as Metzler — an award-winning writer and playwright whose credits also include “Shameless” and “Orange Is the New Black” — won a WGA award and the show earned multiple Emmy, Golden Globe and Critics Choice award nominations.
Under the pact, Metzler and her Quiet Coyote banner set out to develop new series and other projects for the streamer, with a...
The new series is the first under Metzler’s multi-year overall deal with Netflix, announced in February 2022 following the massive success of “Maid.” The series — starring Margaret Qualley and produced by LuckyChap, as well as John Wells Productions — debuted on the streamer in October 2021, where it spent 14 weeks on the streamer’s global Top 10 TV list and reached the Top 10 in 93 countries. “Maid” was also a critical hit, as Metzler — an award-winning writer and playwright whose credits also include “Shameless” and “Orange Is the New Black” — won a WGA award and the show earned multiple Emmy, Golden Globe and Critics Choice award nominations.
Under the pact, Metzler and her Quiet Coyote banner set out to develop new series and other projects for the streamer, with a...
- 2/21/2024
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
How does one repay a team of producers for launching its highest grossing film of all time? Give them the key to the studio — literally.
On Monday, “Barbie” producers, LuckyChap’s Margot Robbie, Tom Ackerley and Josey McNamara inked a first-look deal at Warner Bros., which distributed the $1.4 billion-grossing movie. So, to celebrate, Warner Bros. Pictures Group Co-Chairs and CEO Pam Abdy and Michael De Luca decided to resurrect an old tradition, started by WB co-founder Jack Warner.
“Every once in a while, when a significant piece of talent signed a deal with the studio, he presented that company, that talent, with a key to the studio,” De Luca said as he and Abdy raised a toast to the trio. “We are so delighted to have our first key to our studio be given to LuckyChap.”
This historical artifact, De Luca noted, was particularly special, as the LuckyChap team received...
On Monday, “Barbie” producers, LuckyChap’s Margot Robbie, Tom Ackerley and Josey McNamara inked a first-look deal at Warner Bros., which distributed the $1.4 billion-grossing movie. So, to celebrate, Warner Bros. Pictures Group Co-Chairs and CEO Pam Abdy and Michael De Luca decided to resurrect an old tradition, started by WB co-founder Jack Warner.
“Every once in a while, when a significant piece of talent signed a deal with the studio, he presented that company, that talent, with a key to the studio,” De Luca said as he and Abdy raised a toast to the trio. “We are so delighted to have our first key to our studio be given to LuckyChap.”
This historical artifact, De Luca noted, was particularly special, as the LuckyChap team received...
- 2/13/2024
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
The Best Limited Series/TV Movie Writing category has 111 submissions on the 2023 Emmys ballot, giving us six nominees this year. With the same number of nominees last year, they were “Dopesick” (“The People vs. Purdue Pharma” by Danny Strong), “The Dropout” (“I’m in a Hurry” by Elizabeth Meriwether), “Maid” (“Snaps” by Molly Smith Metzler), “Station Eleven” (“Unbroken Circle” by Patrick Somerville), “Impeachment: American Crime Story” (“Man Handled” by Sarah Burgess), and the winner “The White Lotus” (Mike White).
What makes last year interesting is that half of the shows in the category were not nominated for Best Limited Series, something that perhaps could repeat itself to a degree with this year’s potential nominees. Another thing of note is that almost all of the top contenders this year that had the option to submit multiple episodes only went with one, preventing any possibility of vote-splitting.
Take “Beef” for example,...
What makes last year interesting is that half of the shows in the category were not nominated for Best Limited Series, something that perhaps could repeat itself to a degree with this year’s potential nominees. Another thing of note is that almost all of the top contenders this year that had the option to submit multiple episodes only went with one, preventing any possibility of vote-splitting.
Take “Beef” for example,...
- 6/28/2023
- by Christopher Tsang
- Gold Derby
If you saw a bunch of stars ducking into A.O.C. recently, there was a good reason.
President Barack Obama and his Higher Ground production company hosted back-to-back dinners the week of March 13 at the Brentwood hotspot, inviting a slew of Oscar winners, nominees and creative talent, according to multiple sources.
Joining Obama and Higher Ground execs Joe Paulsen and Tonia Davis were Oscar-winning Everything Everywhere All at Once duo Daniels (fresh from their best picture win), Michael B. Jordan and Ryan Coogler (also riding high with the success of Creed III), Oscar winner Regina King, Janelle Monáe (featured in the Higher Ground-produced We the People), Colman Domingo (who stars in H.G.’s upcoming Rustin this fall), Better Things creator Pamela Adlon, Oscar-nominated writer and filmmaker Kemp Powers, Station Eleven creator Patrick Somerville, Maid creator and show runner Molly Smith Metzler, and Quinta Brunson, the powerhouse Emmy Award-wining Abbott Elementary creator,...
President Barack Obama and his Higher Ground production company hosted back-to-back dinners the week of March 13 at the Brentwood hotspot, inviting a slew of Oscar winners, nominees and creative talent, according to multiple sources.
Joining Obama and Higher Ground execs Joe Paulsen and Tonia Davis were Oscar-winning Everything Everywhere All at Once duo Daniels (fresh from their best picture win), Michael B. Jordan and Ryan Coogler (also riding high with the success of Creed III), Oscar winner Regina King, Janelle Monáe (featured in the Higher Ground-produced We the People), Colman Domingo (who stars in H.G.’s upcoming Rustin this fall), Better Things creator Pamela Adlon, Oscar-nominated writer and filmmaker Kemp Powers, Station Eleven creator Patrick Somerville, Maid creator and show runner Molly Smith Metzler, and Quinta Brunson, the powerhouse Emmy Award-wining Abbott Elementary creator,...
- 3/30/2023
- by Chris Gardner
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: After months of rumors and a three month exclusive negotiating period, Anonymous Content is now near a deal to acquire the prolific production company Automatik. There’s a twist here: Deadline reported that Anonymous was in talks for Grandview/Automatik. But The Dish hears that Grandview won’t be part of the transaction and will remain a freestanding rep company.
Deal will close early next year, sources said. The separation of Grandview and Automatik is amicable, we’re told. In fact, they just had a rather pleasant holiday party.
Anonymous, run by CEO Dawn Olmstead, had been having conversations with the twinned entities since last spring. Details will emerge after the holidays, and Anonymous Content, Automatik and Grandview declined comment.
Grandview will continue as a separate entity. Company has 20 managers who work with more than 500 clients including Joe Kosinski, Ryan Condal, Justin Simien, Dan Trachtenberg, Hiro Murai, Molly Smith Metzler,...
Deal will close early next year, sources said. The separation of Grandview and Automatik is amicable, we’re told. In fact, they just had a rather pleasant holiday party.
Anonymous, run by CEO Dawn Olmstead, had been having conversations with the twinned entities since last spring. Details will emerge after the holidays, and Anonymous Content, Automatik and Grandview declined comment.
Grandview will continue as a separate entity. Company has 20 managers who work with more than 500 clients including Joe Kosinski, Ryan Condal, Justin Simien, Dan Trachtenberg, Hiro Murai, Molly Smith Metzler,...
- 12/14/2022
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Marking another major merger in the representation world, sources tell Deadline that Anonymous Content is in exclusive negotiations to acquire management and production firm Grandview/Automatik. The two companies have had discussions about a potential merger going all the way back to the spring, with nothing serious ever coming of it, but talks have ramped up during the past couple weeks and sources close to the situation say they now are exclusive.
Reps for both companies declined comment on the talks.
Grandview/Automatik has been seen as a popular potential acquisition for some time as the company founded in 2014 has grown from a small boutique to a major player in the management and producing world. Insiders say that even after early discussions started in the spring with Anonymous, Grandview still was keeping an open ear to other offers as it decided what was best for the company. In recent weeks,...
Reps for both companies declined comment on the talks.
Grandview/Automatik has been seen as a popular potential acquisition for some time as the company founded in 2014 has grown from a small boutique to a major player in the management and producing world. Insiders say that even after early discussions started in the spring with Anonymous, Grandview still was keeping an open ear to other offers as it decided what was best for the company. In recent weeks,...
- 9/28/2022
- by Justin Kroll
- Deadline Film + TV
Anonymous Content is currently an exploring an acquisition of Grandview/Automatik, Variety has learned from sources.
Should the deal go forward, it would merge the two management and production companies into a single entity. Sources say that the two companies had previously had limited discussions about a potential merger, but nothing was serious until recently.
Reps for both Anonymous and Grandview/Automatik declined to comment.
Grandview/Automatik was originally founded in 2014 by former CAA agent Matt Rosen, manager Jeff Silver, and producer Brian Kavanaugh-Jones. On the management side, Grandview currently has 20 managers handling over 500 clients. Among their top clients are “Top Gun: Maverick” director Joseph Kosinski, “House of the Dragon” co-creator Ryan Condal as well as series star Olivia Cooke, “Atlanta” executive producer and director Hiro Murai, “Prey” director Dan Trachtenberg, and “Maid” creator Molly Smith Metzler.
Automatik, meanwhile, has produced over 80 films and television series to date. Those include...
Should the deal go forward, it would merge the two management and production companies into a single entity. Sources say that the two companies had previously had limited discussions about a potential merger, but nothing was serious until recently.
Reps for both Anonymous and Grandview/Automatik declined to comment.
Grandview/Automatik was originally founded in 2014 by former CAA agent Matt Rosen, manager Jeff Silver, and producer Brian Kavanaugh-Jones. On the management side, Grandview currently has 20 managers handling over 500 clients. Among their top clients are “Top Gun: Maverick” director Joseph Kosinski, “House of the Dragon” co-creator Ryan Condal as well as series star Olivia Cooke, “Atlanta” executive producer and director Hiro Murai, “Prey” director Dan Trachtenberg, and “Maid” creator Molly Smith Metzler.
Automatik, meanwhile, has produced over 80 films and television series to date. Those include...
- 9/28/2022
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
The Emmy Awards are always full of fun fashion and surprises.
Did the right people win? Were there any surprises?
Squid Game already made history this year: will they win any of the top prizes?
So many talented people get nominated, and this year is no different.
Check out the winners of the Primetime Emmys below!
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie
Dopesick: Michael Keaton as Dr. Samuel Finnix -- Winner
The Staircase: Colin Firth as Michael Peterson
Under The Banner Of Heaven: Andrew Garfield as Detective Jeb Pyre
Scenes From A Marriage: Oscar Isaac as Jonathan
Station Eleven: Himesh Patel as Jeevan Chaudhary
Pam & Tommy: Sebastian Stan as Tommy Lee
Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie
The White Lotus: Murray Bartlett as Armond -- Winner
The White Lotus: Jake Lacy as Shane Patton
Dopesick: Will Poulter...
Did the right people win? Were there any surprises?
Squid Game already made history this year: will they win any of the top prizes?
So many talented people get nominated, and this year is no different.
Check out the winners of the Primetime Emmys below!
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie
Dopesick: Michael Keaton as Dr. Samuel Finnix -- Winner
The Staircase: Colin Firth as Michael Peterson
Under The Banner Of Heaven: Andrew Garfield as Detective Jeb Pyre
Scenes From A Marriage: Oscar Isaac as Jonathan
Station Eleven: Himesh Patel as Jeevan Chaudhary
Pam & Tommy: Sebastian Stan as Tommy Lee
Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie
The White Lotus: Murray Bartlett as Armond -- Winner
The White Lotus: Jake Lacy as Shane Patton
Dopesick: Will Poulter...
- 9/13/2022
- by Michael T. Stack
- TVfanatic
Click here to read the full article.
Don’t Look Up, Black-ish and Pachinko were among the winners of the 46th annual Humanitas Prizes announced Friday from a luncheon at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles.
The awards, honoring the craft of screenwriting, featured winners in nine juried categories spanning film and television. These included Don’t Look Up from writer Adam McKay for comedy feature film, The Starling from Matt Harris for drama feature film and Encanto from Charise Castro Smith and Jared Bush for family feature film.
On the TV side, Black-ish writer Robb Chavis prevailed for comedy teleplay, Pachinko creator Soo Hugh won for drama teleplay and Women of the Movement creator Marissa Jo Cerar was tops for limited series, TV movie or special.
Larry Wilmore hosted the event, and presenters included Nkechi Okoro Carroll, Jasmine Cephas Jones and Humanitas board president Jenny Bicks. Also honored were...
Don’t Look Up, Black-ish and Pachinko were among the winners of the 46th annual Humanitas Prizes announced Friday from a luncheon at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles.
The awards, honoring the craft of screenwriting, featured winners in nine juried categories spanning film and television. These included Don’t Look Up from writer Adam McKay for comedy feature film, The Starling from Matt Harris for drama feature film and Encanto from Charise Castro Smith and Jared Bush for family feature film.
On the TV side, Black-ish writer Robb Chavis prevailed for comedy teleplay, Pachinko creator Soo Hugh won for drama teleplay and Women of the Movement creator Marissa Jo Cerar was tops for limited series, TV movie or special.
Larry Wilmore hosted the event, and presenters included Nkechi Okoro Carroll, Jasmine Cephas Jones and Humanitas board president Jenny Bicks. Also honored were...
- 9/10/2022
- by Ryan Gajewski
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Retiring ABC series “Black-ish” picked up one more honor on Friday, a Humanitas Prize for comedy teleplay, while Apple TV+’s “Pachinko” and ABC’s “Women of the Movement” also were recognized at the event.
Held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel and hosted by comedian Larry Wilmore, the 46th annual Humanitas Prize event centered on awards and 10,000 cash prizes to screenwriters across ten categories. In addition, Humanitas board president Jenny Bicks presented Filmmakers for Ukraine with the Kieser Award “in recognition of their work to connect the Ukrainian film and TV community impacted by the Russo-Ukrainian War with resources, jobs, and funding to meet basic needs.”
And Jasmine Cephas Jones presented Starz with Voice for Change Award for its #TakeTheLead initiative. Starz president/CEO Jeffrey Hirsch accepted the prize on the network’s behalf. Nkechi Okoro Carroll oversaw the New Voices Fellowship and College Screenwriting Award presentations.
Here are this...
Held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel and hosted by comedian Larry Wilmore, the 46th annual Humanitas Prize event centered on awards and 10,000 cash prizes to screenwriters across ten categories. In addition, Humanitas board president Jenny Bicks presented Filmmakers for Ukraine with the Kieser Award “in recognition of their work to connect the Ukrainian film and TV community impacted by the Russo-Ukrainian War with resources, jobs, and funding to meet basic needs.”
And Jasmine Cephas Jones presented Starz with Voice for Change Award for its #TakeTheLead initiative. Starz president/CEO Jeffrey Hirsch accepted the prize on the network’s behalf. Nkechi Okoro Carroll oversaw the New Voices Fellowship and College Screenwriting Award presentations.
Here are this...
- 9/10/2022
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Welcome to It’s a Hit! In this series, IndieWire speaks to creators and showrunners behind a few of our favorite television programs about the moment they realized their show was breaking big.
When creator and showrunner Molly Smith Metzler set about adapting Stephanie Land’s memoir “Maid” into a limited series, she had one task above all: Don’t make it sad. “Maid” documents one woman’s struggles with domestic abuse, homelessness, and child support, and while it’s often difficult to watch, Metzler wanted it to be a full emotional journey.
“When we took [the show] out as a pitch, I started by saying, ‘This is not going to be sad,” Metzler told IndieWire via Zoom. “‘We are not going to bum you out. We are going to take you on a ride, it’s going to have highs and lows, but it’s going to be honest. It’s going to be really true.
When creator and showrunner Molly Smith Metzler set about adapting Stephanie Land’s memoir “Maid” into a limited series, she had one task above all: Don’t make it sad. “Maid” documents one woman’s struggles with domestic abuse, homelessness, and child support, and while it’s often difficult to watch, Metzler wanted it to be a full emotional journey.
“When we took [the show] out as a pitch, I started by saying, ‘This is not going to be sad,” Metzler told IndieWire via Zoom. “‘We are not going to bum you out. We are going to take you on a ride, it’s going to have highs and lows, but it’s going to be honest. It’s going to be really true.
- 8/8/2022
- by Proma Khosla
- Indiewire
Click here to read the full article.
In the final episode of Netflix’s limited series Maid, protagonist Alex (Emmy nominee Margaret Qualley) confronts her mother, Paula (Qualley’s real-life mom, Andie MacDowell), who is homeless and in the throes of a mental health crisis. In this scene, Alex follows her mother to Walmart, where she discovers Paula is living out of her car. Emmy-nominated creator Molly Smith Metzler breaks down the tough, emotional scene between mother and daughter.
Maid
“Alex arrives in this scene emotionally gutted and ripped open,” says Metzler. “It’s so hard for her to tell the truth in this moment and to admit just how fucked they both are.” There was a lot of subtext in Alex for Qualley to convey as well. “Margaret brought this sense that this was [Alex’s] future — this is something you inherit when you’re someone like Alex. Mental illness is inherited.
In the final episode of Netflix’s limited series Maid, protagonist Alex (Emmy nominee Margaret Qualley) confronts her mother, Paula (Qualley’s real-life mom, Andie MacDowell), who is homeless and in the throes of a mental health crisis. In this scene, Alex follows her mother to Walmart, where she discovers Paula is living out of her car. Emmy-nominated creator Molly Smith Metzler breaks down the tough, emotional scene between mother and daughter.
Maid
“Alex arrives in this scene emotionally gutted and ripped open,” says Metzler. “It’s so hard for her to tell the truth in this moment and to admit just how fucked they both are.” There was a lot of subtext in Alex for Qualley to convey as well. “Margaret brought this sense that this was [Alex’s] future — this is something you inherit when you’re someone like Alex. Mental illness is inherited.
- 8/6/2022
- by Tyler Coates
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Variety Awards Circuit section is the home for all awards news and related content throughout the year, featuring the following: the official awards predictions for the upcoming Oscars and Emmys ceremonies, curated by Variety senior awards editor Clayton Davis; Awards Circuit Column, a weekly analysis dissecting the trends and contenders by television editor Michael Schneider (for Emmys) and Davis (for Oscars); Awards Circuit Podcast, a weekly interview series with talent and an expert roundtable discussion; and Awards Circuit Video analyzes various categories and contenders by Variety's leading awards pundits. Variety's unmatched coverage gives its readership unbeatable exposure in print and online, as well as provide inside reports on all the contenders in this year's awards season races.
To see all the latest predictions, of all the categories, in one place, visit The Emmys Collective
Visit each category, per the individual awards show from The Emmys Hub
To see old predictions and commentary,...
To see all the latest predictions, of all the categories, in one place, visit The Emmys Collective
Visit each category, per the individual awards show from The Emmys Hub
To see old predictions and commentary,...
- 8/4/2022
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
One of the biggest surprises on Emmy nominations morning showed up in the Best Limited/Movie Writing category when “Impeachment: American Crime Story” got nominated, a season that many pundits were clearly underestimating, as lead actress Sarah Paulson also nabbed a bid. This category is especially stunning in that half of these six shows are not nominated in the program category, despite most of them being predicted in this race. That said, as far as potential winners, the two nomination leaders, “The White Lotus” and “Dopesick,” will be battling it out to see who comes out on top.
Here are Gold Derby’s current Best Limited/Movie Writing Emmy 2022 racetrack odds:
“The White Lotus” (Mike White) – 10/3 odds
“Dopesick” (“The People vs. Purdue Pharma” by Danny Strong) — 4/1 odds
“Station Eleven” (“Unbroken Circle” by Patrick Somerville) — 5/1 odds
“The Dropout” (“I’m In A Hurry” by Elizabeth Meriwether) — 11/2 odds
“Maid” (“Snaps” by Molly Smith Metzler...
Here are Gold Derby’s current Best Limited/Movie Writing Emmy 2022 racetrack odds:
“The White Lotus” (Mike White) – 10/3 odds
“Dopesick” (“The People vs. Purdue Pharma” by Danny Strong) — 4/1 odds
“Station Eleven” (“Unbroken Circle” by Patrick Somerville) — 5/1 odds
“The Dropout” (“I’m In A Hurry” by Elizabeth Meriwether) — 11/2 odds
“Maid” (“Snaps” by Molly Smith Metzler...
- 7/31/2022
- by Christopher Tsang
- Gold Derby
There are 110 submissions on the 2022 Emmys ballot for Best Limited or Anthology Series or Movie Writing, resulting in six nominees. As a reminder, last year’s winner was “I May Destroy You” (Michaela Coel) and the other nominees were “The Queen’s Gambit” (Scott Frank), “Mare of Easttown” (Brad Inglesby) and three episodes from “Wandavision”.
The low number of entries in this year’s Best Limited/Movie Writing category can be attributed to the fact that all the top contenders have submitted only one or two episodes from their series when given the option. Danny Strong, a previous winner for “Game Change” in this category a decade ago, entered the “Dopesick” finale, “The People vs. Purdue Pharma.” Other programs that submitted their final episodes were “Maid” (“Snaps”) and “Station Eleven” (“Unbroken Circle”) by their respective showrunners Molly Smith Metzler and Patrick Somerville, which is not a bad method given that seven...
The low number of entries in this year’s Best Limited/Movie Writing category can be attributed to the fact that all the top contenders have submitted only one or two episodes from their series when given the option. Danny Strong, a previous winner for “Game Change” in this category a decade ago, entered the “Dopesick” finale, “The People vs. Purdue Pharma.” Other programs that submitted their final episodes were “Maid” (“Snaps”) and “Station Eleven” (“Unbroken Circle”) by their respective showrunners Molly Smith Metzler and Patrick Somerville, which is not a bad method given that seven...
- 7/10/2022
- by Christopher Tsang
- Gold Derby
Este Haim is most famously known as a sister. In addition to shredding bass and serving face at Haim shows around the world, she played a version of herself opposite sisters Danielle and Alana (and their parents) in last year’s “Licorice Pizza.” But somewhere between selling out Madison Square Garden and attending the Oscars, the eldest member of the trio has quietly been carving out her own path as a composer.
In 2021, she and fellow musician Christopher Stracey made their compositional debut with “Maid,” the Netflix limited series starring Margaret Qualley. Early into the process, a second opportunity rolled around by coincidence or perhaps fate. During a late-night coffee break, the duo overheard some producer friends talking about “Cha Cha Real Smooth,” indie wunderkind Cooper Raiff’s new film about a college graduate who works as a “party starter” at bar and bat mitzvahs.
“A movie about a bar mitzvah?...
In 2021, she and fellow musician Christopher Stracey made their compositional debut with “Maid,” the Netflix limited series starring Margaret Qualley. Early into the process, a second opportunity rolled around by coincidence or perhaps fate. During a late-night coffee break, the duo overheard some producer friends talking about “Cha Cha Real Smooth,” indie wunderkind Cooper Raiff’s new film about a college graduate who works as a “party starter” at bar and bat mitzvahs.
“A movie about a bar mitzvah?...
- 7/7/2022
- by Harper Lambert
- The Wrap
Humanitas has revealed the nominees for this year’s Humanitas Prizes, which recognize “television and film writers whose work explores the human condition in a nuanced way.” The award is given out in nine categories, including comedy, drama and limited series.
This year’s nominees include “Maid,” “This Is Us,” “Queen Sugar,” “Pachinko,” “Abbott Elementary,” “Somebody Somewhere” and “Black-ish.” Winners will be announced at an in-person awards luncheon at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on September 9, 2022.
“The Humanitas Prizes were created to recognize writers whose work explores the beauty and complexity of the human experience and the 2022 nominees do just that,” said Michelle Franke, Humanitas Executive Director. “Ranging in scope, style, and perspective, these stories underscore our bonds, our history and responsibility to each other in the present as well as possibilities for the future. Especially during challenging times, writers dedicate themselves to the stories that connect and entertain us.”
Here...
This year’s nominees include “Maid,” “This Is Us,” “Queen Sugar,” “Pachinko,” “Abbott Elementary,” “Somebody Somewhere” and “Black-ish.” Winners will be announced at an in-person awards luncheon at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on September 9, 2022.
“The Humanitas Prizes were created to recognize writers whose work explores the beauty and complexity of the human experience and the 2022 nominees do just that,” said Michelle Franke, Humanitas Executive Director. “Ranging in scope, style, and perspective, these stories underscore our bonds, our history and responsibility to each other in the present as well as possibilities for the future. Especially during challenging times, writers dedicate themselves to the stories that connect and entertain us.”
Here...
- 6/27/2022
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
After a two-year hiatus, Humanitas has revealed the nominations for its 2022 Humanitas Prizes in nine categories
Winners will receive their trophies during a September 9 in-person ceremony at the Beverly Hilton.
Launched in 1974, the Humanitas Prizes honor film and television writers whose work explores the human condition, with recipients receiving a trophy and a cash prize.
Here are the nominees for the 46th annual Humanitas Prize:
Children’s Teleplay
El Deafo: Written by Cece Bell and Will McRobb
Karma’s World: “Hair Comes Trouble” – Written by Kellie R. Griffin and Halcyon Person
Snoopy Presents: To Mom (and Dad), with Love: Written by Alex Galatis
The Babysitters Club: “Claudia and the Sad Goodbye” – Written by Sascha Rothchild
Comedy Feature Film
Don’t Look Up: Written by Adam McKay
Everything Everywhere All At Once: Written by Daniel Kwan & Daniel Scheinert
Queen Bees: Written by Donald Martin
tick, tick…Boom!:...
Winners will receive their trophies during a September 9 in-person ceremony at the Beverly Hilton.
Launched in 1974, the Humanitas Prizes honor film and television writers whose work explores the human condition, with recipients receiving a trophy and a cash prize.
Here are the nominees for the 46th annual Humanitas Prize:
Children’s Teleplay
El Deafo: Written by Cece Bell and Will McRobb
Karma’s World: “Hair Comes Trouble” – Written by Kellie R. Griffin and Halcyon Person
Snoopy Presents: To Mom (and Dad), with Love: Written by Alex Galatis
The Babysitters Club: “Claudia and the Sad Goodbye” – Written by Sascha Rothchild
Comedy Feature Film
Don’t Look Up: Written by Adam McKay
Everything Everywhere All At Once: Written by Daniel Kwan & Daniel Scheinert
Queen Bees: Written by Donald Martin
tick, tick…Boom!:...
- 6/27/2022
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Humanitas has announced the nominees for the 46th annual Humanitas Prizes, which celebrates the craft of screenwriting. Across nine juried categories, which include both television and film, 45 writers are nominated for their work.
Among the nominees are Abbott Elementary creator and star Quinta Brunson (comedy teleplay) and Academy Award-winning Coda writer-director Sian Heder (drama feature film). Adam McKay, who was nominated for an Oscar this year for Netflix’s Don’t Look Up, also received a nom for comedy feature film, along with Everything Everywhere All At Once scribes and directors Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert.
“The Humanitas Prizes were created to recognize writers whose work explores the beauty and complexity of the human experience and the 2022 nominees do just that,” said Humanitas executive director Michelle Franke in a statement. “Ranging in scope, style, and perspective, these stories underscore our bonds, our history and...
Humanitas has announced the nominees for the 46th annual Humanitas Prizes, which celebrates the craft of screenwriting. Across nine juried categories, which include both television and film, 45 writers are nominated for their work.
Among the nominees are Abbott Elementary creator and star Quinta Brunson (comedy teleplay) and Academy Award-winning Coda writer-director Sian Heder (drama feature film). Adam McKay, who was nominated for an Oscar this year for Netflix’s Don’t Look Up, also received a nom for comedy feature film, along with Everything Everywhere All At Once scribes and directors Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert.
“The Humanitas Prizes were created to recognize writers whose work explores the beauty and complexity of the human experience and the 2022 nominees do just that,” said Humanitas executive director Michelle Franke in a statement. “Ranging in scope, style, and perspective, these stories underscore our bonds, our history and...
- 6/27/2022
- by Tyler Coates
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
After scoring its first Best Limited Series Emmy win last year with “The Queen’s Gambit,” Netflix is hoping for a repeat victory with “Maid,” a 10-part drama based on the memoir of the same name by Stephanie Land. The series stars Margaret Qualley as Alex Russell, a young mother who leaves her abusive partner and attempts to start her and her daughter’s lives anew. Qualley recently reflected on the experience of making the show during a 2022 Emmys FYC panel hosted by Variety’s Jenelle Riley along with castmates Andie MacDowell and Anika Noni Rose, executive producer/showrunner/writer Molly Smith Metzler, cinematographer/director Quyen Tran, and executive producer/director John Wells. Watch the video Q&a above.
When asked how she prepared for her challenging role, Qualley said her foremost concern was “forging that bond with Rylea [Nevaeh Whittet],” who plays Russell’s toddler daughter, Maddy, because “that was the one thing that…...
When asked how she prepared for her challenging role, Qualley said her foremost concern was “forging that bond with Rylea [Nevaeh Whittet],” who plays Russell’s toddler daughter, Maddy, because “that was the one thing that…...
- 6/13/2022
- by Matthew Stewart
- Gold Derby
What’s harder to work with when it comes to writing a limited series — true stories taken from real life, or the stuff of fiction? A panel of top writers debated the challenges of working with headline-driven and historical material during the final hour of Variety‘s Night in the Writers’ Room on June 9 at 1 Hotel in West Hollywood.
“There’s a little bit of a tightrope-walk in a true story that you don’t necessarily have to walk in fiction,” said Dustin Lance Black, the writer-producer behind FX’s “Under the Banner of Heaven.” He noted that the series, about the 1984 murder of a woman and her infant daughter in Salt Lake City, deals with three intertwined stories, one of which is fictional. “That one to me, I had a slightly easier time with. If I hit a dramatic wall and needed a complication, I was able to make it up.
“There’s a little bit of a tightrope-walk in a true story that you don’t necessarily have to walk in fiction,” said Dustin Lance Black, the writer-producer behind FX’s “Under the Banner of Heaven.” He noted that the series, about the 1984 murder of a woman and her infant daughter in Salt Lake City, deals with three intertwined stories, one of which is fictional. “That one to me, I had a slightly easier time with. If I hit a dramatic wall and needed a complication, I was able to make it up.
- 6/10/2022
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
“I got to have a Regina that grew and became a person as opposed to an archetype of rich bitch,” explains Anika Noni Rose about her character in the Netflix limited series “Maid.” Regina is a wealthy lawyer who at first shows little sympathy for Alex (Margaret Qualley), who cleans her house, but she eventually forms a bond with the struggling young woman, and we learn Regina has struggles of her own. Watch our exclusive video interview with Rose above.
See‘Maid’ lively roundtable conversation: Showrunner Molly Smith Metzler, director John Wells, actors Margaret Qualley and Andie MacDowell on their new Netflix series [Watch]
Based on a memoir by Stephanie Land, “Maid” follows Alex as she fights to escape an abusive relationship and make a new life for herself and her daughter. She encounters systemic roadblocks every step of the way, from byzantine government support programs to an antagonistic legal system.
See‘Maid’ lively roundtable conversation: Showrunner Molly Smith Metzler, director John Wells, actors Margaret Qualley and Andie MacDowell on their new Netflix series [Watch]
Based on a memoir by Stephanie Land, “Maid” follows Alex as she fights to escape an abusive relationship and make a new life for herself and her daughter. She encounters systemic roadblocks every step of the way, from byzantine government support programs to an antagonistic legal system.
- 6/4/2022
- by Daniel Montgomery
- Gold Derby
Molly Smith Metzler was first handed a copy of Stephanie Land’s book Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother’s Will to Survive during her time in the Shameless writers’ room.
Metzler had just written a play on motherhood called Cry It Out, and was the prime candidate for Maid EPs John Wells and Margot Robbie to adapt Land’s story, roughly based on her life as a poverty stricken single mom battling the government’s red tape of benefits.
The protagonist, Alex Russell (played by Margaret Qualley), also goes up against her abusive partner, Sean (Nick Robinson), in trying to land custody of their toddler girl Maddy; a role which he totally isn’t fit for, despite the system ruling in his favor.
In addition to being a story about the forgotten class, says Metzler, “even larger is this issue of emotional abuse and domestic violence” in Maid.
Metzler had just written a play on motherhood called Cry It Out, and was the prime candidate for Maid EPs John Wells and Margot Robbie to adapt Land’s story, roughly based on her life as a poverty stricken single mom battling the government’s red tape of benefits.
The protagonist, Alex Russell (played by Margaret Qualley), also goes up against her abusive partner, Sean (Nick Robinson), in trying to land custody of their toddler girl Maddy; a role which he totally isn’t fit for, despite the system ruling in his favor.
In addition to being a story about the forgotten class, says Metzler, “even larger is this issue of emotional abuse and domestic violence” in Maid.
- 5/30/2022
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
“Maid” is told entirely from “the lead character Alex’s point of view,” explains director and executive producer John Wells. “So what we’re really talking about is how to do it very naturalistically and how to make certain that the audience always remained inside of the experience that Alex was having with her child.” Watch our exclusive video interview with Wells above.
Inspired by “Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother’s Will to Survive,” a memoir by Stephanie Land, the Netflix limited series tells the story of Alex (Margaret Qualley), who takes the title job to support herself and her daughter after leaving an abusive relationship. Because the show’s Pov is so tightly focused on Alex, “there’s very little observational. We’re not stepping back from things, we’re in very close with her a lot. And we worked on a visual style with Quyen Tran,...
Inspired by “Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother’s Will to Survive,” a memoir by Stephanie Land, the Netflix limited series tells the story of Alex (Margaret Qualley), who takes the title job to support herself and her daughter after leaving an abusive relationship. Because the show’s Pov is so tightly focused on Alex, “there’s very little observational. We’re not stepping back from things, we’re in very close with her a lot. And we worked on a visual style with Quyen Tran,...
- 5/26/2022
- by Daniel Montgomery
- Gold Derby
“I’m the daughter of two school teachers. So there was a huge emphasis on education and culture, but not a lot of access to some of these things that my friends who came from privilege came from,” explains “Maid” creator Molly Smith Metzler about why themes of social and economic class have permeated so much of her work, from theater to TV, where she has written for shows like “Orange is the New Black” and “Shameless.” Watch our exclusive video interview with Metzler above.
SEEAndie MacDowell (‘Maid’) on portraying mental illness: ‘She doesn’t want anyone to see that she’s dark and suffering’
Inspired by a memoir by Stephanie Land, “Maid” follows Alex (Margaret Qualley), a young aspiring writer and mother trying to escape her abusive relationship while also struggling to overcome an endless series of financial and bureaucratic hurdles. “It felt like … an incredibly urgent high stakes...
SEEAndie MacDowell (‘Maid’) on portraying mental illness: ‘She doesn’t want anyone to see that she’s dark and suffering’
Inspired by a memoir by Stephanie Land, “Maid” follows Alex (Margaret Qualley), a young aspiring writer and mother trying to escape her abusive relationship while also struggling to overcome an endless series of financial and bureaucratic hurdles. “It felt like … an incredibly urgent high stakes...
- 5/24/2022
- by Daniel Montgomery
- Gold Derby
“Moon Knight” has taken off with critics and superhero fans around the globe, raking in enormous numbers for Disney+ and Marvel Studios. As a result, the two studios are gearing up for a hardy Emmys campaign with the show in the limited series categories, especially following the success of “WandaVision,” which co-led the tally for all series with 23 nominations (winning three) last year. However, a tweet shared from Marvel Studios’ official Twitter account could throw a potential wrench in their campaign.
Created by Jeremy Slater, the entire promotional tour for “Moon Knight” had the two major studios referring to the show as a “limited series,” with the presumption this would be a standalone television outing for the Marvel Comics character. However, on Monday, Marvel’s official Twitter page shared the trailer for today’s final episode, referring to it as “the epic series finale,” but the tweet was taken down...
Created by Jeremy Slater, the entire promotional tour for “Moon Knight” had the two major studios referring to the show as a “limited series,” with the presumption this would be a standalone television outing for the Marvel Comics character. However, on Monday, Marvel’s official Twitter page shared the trailer for today’s final episode, referring to it as “the epic series finale,” but the tweet was taken down...
- 5/4/2022
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
Succession, Mare Of Easttown enjoy another good night after PGA television wins.
Apple TV+’s Coda and Netflix’s Don’t Look Up were the big film winners at Sunday’s (20) virtual 2022 Writers Guild Awards hosted by the East and West Coast chapters the day after Coda boosted its Oscar hopes by claiming the PGA’s top prize.
Adam McKay’s script for Don’t Look Up took the WGA’s original screenplay prize and Sian Heder prevailed in the adapted category for Coda, which is based on French La Famille Belier.
Both are nominated for their respective Oscar categories although there...
Apple TV+’s Coda and Netflix’s Don’t Look Up were the big film winners at Sunday’s (20) virtual 2022 Writers Guild Awards hosted by the East and West Coast chapters the day after Coda boosted its Oscar hopes by claiming the PGA’s top prize.
Adam McKay’s script for Don’t Look Up took the WGA’s original screenplay prize and Sian Heder prevailed in the adapted category for Coda, which is based on French La Famille Belier.
Both are nominated for their respective Oscar categories although there...
- 3/20/2022
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
The Writers Guild of America, East will host their annual “And the Nominees Are…” limited series contenders’ panel on March 1, with Variety hosting the livestream.
The limited series panel will take place at 7 p.m. Et/ 4 p.m. Pt and will run for 90 minutes. It will be streamed on Variety.com via the YouTube link below. The conversation will include WGA nominees Little Marvin (“Them: Covenant”), Barry Jenkins (“The Underground Railroad”), Brad Inglesby (“Mare of Easttown”), Ian Brennan (“Halston”), Molly Smith Metzler (“Maid”) and Sarah Burgess (“Impeachment: American Crime Story”). The panel will be moderated by Thrillist senior entertainment writer Esther Zuckerman.
The Writers Guild Awards will take place on March 20. “Only Murders in the Building” led this year’s nominations list, with three nods for comedy, new series and comedy episodic. Shows with two nominations include “The Handmaid’s Tale,” “Loki,” “The Morning Show,” “Succession,” “Yellowjackets,” “Hacks,” “Reservation Dogs,” “Bob’s Burgers” and “The Simpsons.
The limited series panel will take place at 7 p.m. Et/ 4 p.m. Pt and will run for 90 minutes. It will be streamed on Variety.com via the YouTube link below. The conversation will include WGA nominees Little Marvin (“Them: Covenant”), Barry Jenkins (“The Underground Railroad”), Brad Inglesby (“Mare of Easttown”), Ian Brennan (“Halston”), Molly Smith Metzler (“Maid”) and Sarah Burgess (“Impeachment: American Crime Story”). The panel will be moderated by Thrillist senior entertainment writer Esther Zuckerman.
The Writers Guild Awards will take place on March 20. “Only Murders in the Building” led this year’s nominations list, with three nods for comedy, new series and comedy episodic. Shows with two nominations include “The Handmaid’s Tale,” “Loki,” “The Morning Show,” “Succession,” “Yellowjackets,” “Hacks,” “Reservation Dogs,” “Bob’s Burgers” and “The Simpsons.
- 3/1/2022
- by Ellise Shafer
- Variety Film + TV
The USC Libraries revealed the winners for the 34th annual USC Libraries Scripter Award on Saturday as a virtual event, which honors the year’s best film and television adaptations (along with the works on which they are based). This group of academics, industry professionals, and critics is often predictive of the Adapted Screenplay Oscar race. Maggie Gyllenhaal’s adaptation of Elena Ferrante’s “The Lost Daughter” (Netflix) won the film award, while the television prize went to author Beth Macy and screenwriter Danny Strong for the Hulu series “Dopesick.”
Of the five finalist writers for film adaptation, three are also Oscar nominees. Rebecca Hall (Nella Larsen’s “Passing”) and Joel Coen (William Shakespeare’s “The Tragedy of Macbeth”) did not make that cut. “The Lost Daughter,” therefore, advances in the Oscar race ahead of “Dune” (Warner Bros. Pictures/Legendary Pictures and Ace) screenwriters Eric Roth, Jon Spaihts, and Denis Villeneuve,...
Of the five finalist writers for film adaptation, three are also Oscar nominees. Rebecca Hall (Nella Larsen’s “Passing”) and Joel Coen (William Shakespeare’s “The Tragedy of Macbeth”) did not make that cut. “The Lost Daughter,” therefore, advances in the Oscar race ahead of “Dune” (Warner Bros. Pictures/Legendary Pictures and Ace) screenwriters Eric Roth, Jon Spaihts, and Denis Villeneuve,...
- 2/27/2022
- by Anne Thompson
- Indiewire
The USC Libraries revealed the winners for the 34th annual USC Libraries Scripter Award on Saturday as a virtual event, which honors the year’s best film and television adaptations (along with the works on which they are based). This group of academics, industry professionals, and critics is often predictive of the Adapted Screenplay Oscar race. Maggie Gyllenhaal’s adaptation of Elena Ferrante’s “The Lost Daughter” (Netflix) won the film award, while the television prize went to author Beth Macy and screenwriter Danny Strong for the Hulu series “Dopesick.”
Of the five finalist writers for film adaptation, three are also Oscar nominees. Rebecca Hall (Nella Larsen’s “Passing”) and Joel Coen (William Shakespeare’s “The Tragedy of Macbeth”) did not make that cut. “The Lost Daughter,” therefore, advances in the Oscar race ahead of “Dune” (Warner Bros. Pictures/Legendary Pictures and Ace) screenwriters Eric Roth, Jon Spaihts, and Denis Villeneuve,...
Of the five finalist writers for film adaptation, three are also Oscar nominees. Rebecca Hall (Nella Larsen’s “Passing”) and Joel Coen (William Shakespeare’s “The Tragedy of Macbeth”) did not make that cut. “The Lost Daughter,” therefore, advances in the Oscar race ahead of “Dune” (Warner Bros. Pictures/Legendary Pictures and Ace) screenwriters Eric Roth, Jon Spaihts, and Denis Villeneuve,...
- 2/27/2022
- by Anne Thompson
- Thompson on Hollywood
The top prizes at the 2022 USC Scripter Awards went to screenwriter Maggie Gyllenhaal and novelist Elena Ferrante for Netflix’s “The Lost Daughter” and scripter Danny Strong and author Beth Macy for Netflix’s “Dopesick” during Saturday’s virtual ceremony.
As in past years, the awards go to both the scriptwriters and the writers of the original source material.
“The Lost Daughter” is based on Ferrante’s 2006 novel. Gyllenhaal happily toasted the win with a glass of champagne, noting that this award “means so much to me particularly because it is chosen and voted for by writers.” The director and writer of the Oscar-nominated film described Ferrante as her “north star” for the project, adding that the author has been “a truly wise and generous guide.”
The “Dopesick” duo won for the episode “The People vs. Purdue Pharma.” Macy gave thanks to all families who helped her as well as...
As in past years, the awards go to both the scriptwriters and the writers of the original source material.
“The Lost Daughter” is based on Ferrante’s 2006 novel. Gyllenhaal happily toasted the win with a glass of champagne, noting that this award “means so much to me particularly because it is chosen and voted for by writers.” The director and writer of the Oscar-nominated film described Ferrante as her “north star” for the project, adding that the author has been “a truly wise and generous guide.”
The “Dopesick” duo won for the episode “The People vs. Purdue Pharma.” Macy gave thanks to all families who helped her as well as...
- 2/27/2022
- by Sharareh Drury
- Variety Film + TV
Netflix announced Monday that it has entered into a creative partnership with “Maid” creator Molly Smith Metzler, who will write and produce new series and other projects for the streamer as part of a multi-year overall agreement.
“Maid,” which stars Andie MacDowell and Margaret Qualley, ranked on Netflix’s Global Top 10 most popular TV series (English) for 13 weeks and has earned 15 award nominations since its October premiere, including SAG, Critics’ Choice and Writers Guild Awards, and was named one of AFI’s Television Programs of the Year.
“I’m honored to have worked closely with Molly over the years. As evidenced by her tremendous work on ‘Maid,’ she is a creative force and a gifted storyteller who knows how to be both profound and entertaining,’ Jinny Howe, vice president of Drama Series Development at Netflix, said in a statement shared with TheWrap. “Bringing ‘Maid’ to the screen was such a...
“Maid,” which stars Andie MacDowell and Margaret Qualley, ranked on Netflix’s Global Top 10 most popular TV series (English) for 13 weeks and has earned 15 award nominations since its October premiere, including SAG, Critics’ Choice and Writers Guild Awards, and was named one of AFI’s Television Programs of the Year.
“I’m honored to have worked closely with Molly over the years. As evidenced by her tremendous work on ‘Maid,’ she is a creative force and a gifted storyteller who knows how to be both profound and entertaining,’ Jinny Howe, vice president of Drama Series Development at Netflix, said in a statement shared with TheWrap. “Bringing ‘Maid’ to the screen was such a...
- 2/14/2022
- by Sharon Knolle
- The Wrap
Molly Smith Metzler, creator and showrunner of Netflix’s critically praised limited drama series Maid, is expanding her relationship with the streaming giant. Metzler has signed a multi-year overall deal under which she will write and produce new series and other projects at Netflix. Via her Quiet Coyote production banner, Metzler aims to create content that is impactful and socially-conscious, with empowering roles for women, both on screen and behind the camera.
Metzler became a hot commodity following the success of Maid, which is produced by Warner Bro. Television. She went on the marketplace in late 2021, meeting with studios and streamers about an overall deal. Netflix quickly emerged as a frontrunner and entered serious negotiations with her.
Maid currently ranks in the Netflix Most Popular Top 10, with 469 million hours viewed in its first 28 days. The series has garnered 15 award nominations to date, including SAG, Critics Choice and Writers Guild, and...
Metzler became a hot commodity following the success of Maid, which is produced by Warner Bro. Television. She went on the marketplace in late 2021, meeting with studios and streamers about an overall deal. Netflix quickly emerged as a frontrunner and entered serious negotiations with her.
Maid currently ranks in the Netflix Most Popular Top 10, with 469 million hours viewed in its first 28 days. The series has garnered 15 award nominations to date, including SAG, Critics Choice and Writers Guild, and...
- 2/14/2022
- by Denise Petski and Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
“Maid” creator Molly Smith Metzler has signed a multi-year overall deal with Netflix, Variety has learned.
“Maid” was based on the memoir “Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother’s Will to Survive” by Stephanie Land. In addition to adapting the book for the screen Metzler also served as executive producer and showrunner on the drama series. It debuted on Netflix in October 2021 to critical acclaim, netting three Golden Globe nominations among other accolades.
“I’m so thrilled to join the Netflix family after what’s already been a joyful and fulfilling partnership with Jinny Howe, who gave this playwright the opportunity to create ‘Maid,'” said Metzler. “From day one, my collaboration with the entire Netflix team has been open, creative, and wildly supportive. I’m honored to call Netflix my home and very excited to keep this party going!”
Under the deal, Metzler and her Quiet Coyote...
“Maid” was based on the memoir “Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother’s Will to Survive” by Stephanie Land. In addition to adapting the book for the screen Metzler also served as executive producer and showrunner on the drama series. It debuted on Netflix in October 2021 to critical acclaim, netting three Golden Globe nominations among other accolades.
“I’m so thrilled to join the Netflix family after what’s already been a joyful and fulfilling partnership with Jinny Howe, who gave this playwright the opportunity to create ‘Maid,'” said Metzler. “From day one, my collaboration with the entire Netflix team has been open, creative, and wildly supportive. I’m honored to call Netflix my home and very excited to keep this party going!”
Under the deal, Metzler and her Quiet Coyote...
- 2/14/2022
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
As the pandemic has acutely pointed out, America runs on the working class: grocery store clerks, sanitation workers, and delivery drivers who are doing the grunt work of keeping this country afloat as they fight for a reasonable minimum wage while barely being able to afford their own housing. Many of them are women; working-class sheroes who are stringing together paychecks and odd jobs to take care of themselves and, oftentimes, children and other relatives.
These are worlds that the glitz and glamour of Hollywood often ignore but that are taking prominent places in this award season’s crop of prestige television. SAG-nominated performances include those from programming such as Hulu’s “Dopesick,” the miniseries that gives faces to people impacted by the opioid crisis, and HBO’s “Mare of Easttown,” a story of an exhausted and beat-down small-town cop surrounded by her equally exhausted and beat-down friends and family,...
These are worlds that the glitz and glamour of Hollywood often ignore but that are taking prominent places in this award season’s crop of prestige television. SAG-nominated performances include those from programming such as Hulu’s “Dopesick,” the miniseries that gives faces to people impacted by the opioid crisis, and HBO’s “Mare of Easttown,” a story of an exhausted and beat-down small-town cop surrounded by her equally exhausted and beat-down friends and family,...
- 1/21/2022
- by Whitney Friedlander
- Variety Film + TV
USC Scripter Awards Film And TV Nominations Set; Barry Jenkins To Receive Literary Achievement Award
Nominations were revealed Wednesday for the 34th annual USC Libraries Scripter Award, which honors the year’s best film and episodic TV adaptations along with he works on which they are based. Winners will be unveiled at a planned in-person ceremony February 26 at USC’s Edward L. Doheny Jr. Memorial Library.
On the film side, nominees today included scripts and their source material from the Netflix trio of The Lost Daughter, The Power of the Dog and Passing, along with Apple/A24’s The Tragedy of Macbeth and Warner Bros’ Dune. In TV, the noms hail from episodes of Hulu’s Dopesick, Netflix’s Maid, HBO Max’s Station Eleven, Disney+’s WandaVision and Amazon Prime Video’s The Underground Railroad.
The latter was adapted by Barry Jenkins based on Colson Whitehead’s novel. Jenkins, who won the Scripter in 2017 for his eventual Oscar Best Picture winner Moonlight, will receive...
On the film side, nominees today included scripts and their source material from the Netflix trio of The Lost Daughter, The Power of the Dog and Passing, along with Apple/A24’s The Tragedy of Macbeth and Warner Bros’ Dune. In TV, the noms hail from episodes of Hulu’s Dopesick, Netflix’s Maid, HBO Max’s Station Eleven, Disney+’s WandaVision and Amazon Prime Video’s The Underground Railroad.
The latter was adapted by Barry Jenkins based on Colson Whitehead’s novel. Jenkins, who won the Scripter in 2017 for his eventual Oscar Best Picture winner Moonlight, will receive...
- 1/19/2022
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
The USC Libraries has revealed the finalists for the 34th annual USC Libraries Scripter Award, which honors the year’s best film and television adaptations, as well as the works on which they are based. This group of academics, industry professionals, and critics (for which I vote) is often predictive of the Adapted Screenplay Oscar race.
Last year’s Scripter film winners were “Nomadland” screenwriter Chloé Zhao and author Jessica Bruder (non-Scripter nominee “The Father” took home the Oscar); past winners include “Call Me By Your Name,” “Moonlight,” “The Big Short,” and “The Imitation Game,” which all won Oscars. In fact, before 2019, eight Scripter Award winners went on to win Oscars.
The finalist writers for film adaptation are, in alphabetical order by film title:
Screenwriters Eric Roth, Jon Spaihts, and Denis Villeneuve for “Dune” (Warner Bros. Pictures/Legendary Pictures and Ace), based on the novel by Frank Herbert
Maggie Gyllenhaal...
Last year’s Scripter film winners were “Nomadland” screenwriter Chloé Zhao and author Jessica Bruder (non-Scripter nominee “The Father” took home the Oscar); past winners include “Call Me By Your Name,” “Moonlight,” “The Big Short,” and “The Imitation Game,” which all won Oscars. In fact, before 2019, eight Scripter Award winners went on to win Oscars.
The finalist writers for film adaptation are, in alphabetical order by film title:
Screenwriters Eric Roth, Jon Spaihts, and Denis Villeneuve for “Dune” (Warner Bros. Pictures/Legendary Pictures and Ace), based on the novel by Frank Herbert
Maggie Gyllenhaal...
- 1/19/2022
- by Anne Thompson
- Thompson on Hollywood
The USC Scripter Awards has announced its nominees for its 34th annual ceremony, recognizing the best film and television adaptations. Netflix dominated the film category with three films making the cut, all from women screenwriters who also directed their movies: “The Lost Daughter” from Maggie Gyllenhaal, “The Power of the Dog” from Jane Campion and “Passing” from Rebecca Hall. This is the first nomination for all three acclaimed filmmakers.
Joel Coen, a two-time nominee for “No Country for Old Men” (2007), for which he won with his brother Ethan, and “True Grit” (2010), was recognized for adapting his black-and-white interpretation of “The Tragedy of Macbeth” for Apple Original Films and A24. This is a huge pick-up for the movie, as no film adaptation of the cursed play has been recognized in the screenplay category at the Oscars.
Another significant boost was given to “Dune” and its three scribes, Eric Roth, Jon Spaihts and Denis Villeneuve.
Joel Coen, a two-time nominee for “No Country for Old Men” (2007), for which he won with his brother Ethan, and “True Grit” (2010), was recognized for adapting his black-and-white interpretation of “The Tragedy of Macbeth” for Apple Original Films and A24. This is a huge pick-up for the movie, as no film adaptation of the cursed play has been recognized in the screenplay category at the Oscars.
Another significant boost was given to “Dune” and its three scribes, Eric Roth, Jon Spaihts and Denis Villeneuve.
- 1/19/2022
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
After earning her first solo SAG Award nomination this morning for her turn in Netflix’s Maid, Margaret Qualley spoke with Deadline about her experience with the series, as well as upcoming roles in Yorgos Lanthimos’ Victorian drama Poor Things, Claire Denis’ The Stars at Noon and Zachary Wigon’s thriller Sanctuary, and the status of the film Fred & Ginger from director Jonathan Entwistle, in which she’s set to play Ginger Rogers opposite Jamie Bell’s Fred Astaire.
While Spider-Man‘s Tom Holland recently announced that he will topline his own Astaire biopic for Sony, Qualley is unaware at this point of when Fred & Ginger might get made. “I don’t know, but I hope it happens soon,” she says. “I love Jamie Bell so much and I’m always trying to be typecast as a dancer, so I can just dance in everything I do.
While Spider-Man‘s Tom Holland recently announced that he will topline his own Astaire biopic for Sony, Qualley is unaware at this point of when Fred & Ginger might get made. “I don’t know, but I hope it happens soon,” she says. “I love Jamie Bell so much and I’m always trying to be typecast as a dancer, so I can just dance in everything I do.
- 1/12/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Sandra Bullock is back on Netflix, and this time, it isn’t blindfolded in a post-apocalyptic horror (a la 2018’s “Bird Box”). Her latest feature flick on the streamer, “The Unforgivable,” directed by Nora Fingscheidt, debuted at No. 1 globally on Dec. 10 and generated 85.86 million hours of subscriber viewership. In the film, Bullock stars as Ruth Slater, a woman recently released from prison who re-enters a society that refuses to forgive her past or the murder she committed.
Fingscheidt joins a cohort of female directors and showrunners that dominated Netflix’s Top 10 lists for the week of Dec. 6-12, including Jane Campion (“The Power of the Dog”), Halle Berry (“Bruised”), Mary Lambert (“A Castle for Christmas”), Clare Knight (“Back to the Outback”), Maria Torres (“Anonymously Yours”), Mar Targarona (“Two”), Molly Smith Metzler (“Maid”) and Lauren Schmidt Hissrich (“The Witcher”). Campion’s Western-drama — starring Benedict Cumberbatch, Kirsten Dunst, Jesse Plemons and Kodi Smit-McPhee — took the No.
Fingscheidt joins a cohort of female directors and showrunners that dominated Netflix’s Top 10 lists for the week of Dec. 6-12, including Jane Campion (“The Power of the Dog”), Halle Berry (“Bruised”), Mary Lambert (“A Castle for Christmas”), Clare Knight (“Back to the Outback”), Maria Torres (“Anonymously Yours”), Mar Targarona (“Two”), Molly Smith Metzler (“Maid”) and Lauren Schmidt Hissrich (“The Witcher”). Campion’s Western-drama — starring Benedict Cumberbatch, Kirsten Dunst, Jesse Plemons and Kodi Smit-McPhee — took the No.
- 12/14/2021
- by Mónica Marie Zorrilla
- Variety Film + TV
Veteran publicists Maria Herrera and Rachael Reiss have exited Narrative to form their own shingle, Herrera-Reiss Strategies.
They will be partners in their new firm, and they will continue to represent a strong list of filmmakers, showrunners, production companies, authors and other creatives. That includes James Gunn, Phil Lord & Chris Miller, Hiro Murai, Olivia Wilde, David S. Goyer, Steven Knight, Radio Silence, Molly Smith Metzler, Nahnatchka Kahn, Ace Entertainment, and others.
Herrera and Reiss came up as assistants together at Pmk/Hbh and since served as publicists at Narrative and as Vice Presidents at Rogers & Cowan Pmk. They’ve worked with talent in both releasing and awards campaigns.
They will be partners in their new firm, and they will continue to represent a strong list of filmmakers, showrunners, production companies, authors and other creatives. That includes James Gunn, Phil Lord & Chris Miller, Hiro Murai, Olivia Wilde, David S. Goyer, Steven Knight, Radio Silence, Molly Smith Metzler, Nahnatchka Kahn, Ace Entertainment, and others.
Herrera and Reiss came up as assistants together at Pmk/Hbh and since served as publicists at Narrative and as Vice Presidents at Rogers & Cowan Pmk. They’ve worked with talent in both releasing and awards campaigns.
- 12/6/2021
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
At just 27 years old, Margaret Qualley has racked up notable performances in numerous films and television shows bound to be cherished for a lifetime. From “The Leftovers” and “Fosse/Verdon” to “Once Upon a Time in America” and “The Nice Guys,” she’s already collaborated with Oscar and Emmy winners, and now she’s in Panama, working on the latest film from Claire Denis.
But even with Qualley’s early accomplishments, she admits to feeling like she doesn’t fit into the mold of other performers. The actress said she hasn’t had much exposure to awards season, but what she has experienced so far has been just plain fun. Qualley jokes it’s something she should probably talk about in therapy, but she has a tendency to lower her expectations so she’ll never be disappointed — even when she ended up Emmy-nominated for her role as Ann Reinking in the FX limited series “Fosse/Verdon.
But even with Qualley’s early accomplishments, she admits to feeling like she doesn’t fit into the mold of other performers. The actress said she hasn’t had much exposure to awards season, but what she has experienced so far has been just plain fun. Qualley jokes it’s something she should probably talk about in therapy, but she has a tendency to lower her expectations so she’ll never be disappointed — even when she ended up Emmy-nominated for her role as Ann Reinking in the FX limited series “Fosse/Verdon.
- 12/6/2021
- by Kristen Lopez
- Indiewire
Reading Stephanie Land‘s memoir “Maid” “ruined my sleep for several nights,” explains Molly Smith Metzler. The book told the story of the author’s struggle to escape an abusive relationship while cleaning homes to support herself and her young daughter. Metzler adapted that harrowing story into a 10-episode Netflix limited series, and she joined us for a special Gold Derby Spotlight Q&a along with director and executive producer John Wells and actors Margaret Qualley and Andie MacDowell. Watch our 30-minute panel discussion above.
“It really upset me that this country makes it so difficult for someone like Stephanie Land to care for her daughter and to make ends meet,” Metzler adds about the story, which doesn’t just detail the hardships of abuse and poverty, but the roadblocks put in place by institutions that are supposed to help. “I was really angry and upset by the book and...
“It really upset me that this country makes it so difficult for someone like Stephanie Land to care for her daughter and to make ends meet,” Metzler adds about the story, which doesn’t just detail the hardships of abuse and poverty, but the roadblocks put in place by institutions that are supposed to help. “I was really angry and upset by the book and...
- 11/29/2021
- by Daniel Montgomery
- Gold Derby
Let’s take a close look at ‘Maid,’ the new Netflix limited series about an abused mom who flees with her two-year-old daughter to set up a new home when she takes on the new job as a housekeeper. Watch our discussion with Molly Smith Metzler (showrunner), Jn Wohells (executive producer), Margaret Qualley (lead actress), Andie MacDowell (supporting actress). Moderated by Gold Derby senior editor Daniel Montgomery.
- 11/29/2021
- by Tom O'Neil
- Gold Derby
“The first thing that I was interested in exploring with Sean was just having the opportunity to play such a different character from roles that I’ve played in the past,” says Nick Robinson about what drew him to “Maid,” the Netflix limited series in which he plays an addict who emotionally abuses his partner Alex (Margaret Qualley) until she leaves with their daughter to try to make a better life. It’s a more sinister role than we’ve seen him play before in projects like “The Kings of Summer,” “Love, Simon,” and “A Teacher.” Watch our exclusive video interview above.
Seersvp now for November 29: ‘Maid’ panel with Margaret Qualley, Andie MacDowell, showrunner Molly Smith Metzler, director/EP John Wells
When he read the script by creator Molly Smith Metzler, adapted from the memoir by Stephanie Land, he was struck by the “incredible writing” and how “her picture of Sean was very clear.
Seersvp now for November 29: ‘Maid’ panel with Margaret Qualley, Andie MacDowell, showrunner Molly Smith Metzler, director/EP John Wells
When he read the script by creator Molly Smith Metzler, adapted from the memoir by Stephanie Land, he was struck by the “incredible writing” and how “her picture of Sean was very clear.
- 11/24/2021
- by Daniel Montgomery
- Gold Derby
Showrunner and executive producer Molly Smith Metzler, director and executive producer John Wells, and stars Margaret Qualley and Andie MacDowell, from the critically acclaimed Netflix limited series “Maid,” will reunite to tell all about the 10-episode drama when they join Gold Derby’s special spotlight Q&a event. Watch their 30-minute roundtable chat with our senior editor Daniel Montgomery.
RSVP today to this specific event by clicking here to book your reservation. We’ll send you a reminder a few minutes before the start of the show.
Inspired by Stephanie Land‘s memoir “Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother’s Will to Survive,” the Netflix adaptation tells the story of Alex, who leaves an abusive relationship in order to make a better life for herself and her young daughter Maddy (Rylea Nevaeh Whittet). She takes a job cleaning houses to make ends meet, but all the while she...
RSVP today to this specific event by clicking here to book your reservation. We’ll send you a reminder a few minutes before the start of the show.
Inspired by Stephanie Land‘s memoir “Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother’s Will to Survive,” the Netflix adaptation tells the story of Alex, who leaves an abusive relationship in order to make a better life for herself and her young daughter Maddy (Rylea Nevaeh Whittet). She takes a job cleaning houses to make ends meet, but all the while she...
- 11/23/2021
- by Daniel Montgomery and Chris Beachum
- Gold Derby
Exclusive: John Wells Productions has optioned the rights to Swedish author Tove Alsterdal’s three-book crime series The High Coast for series adaptation. A writer is not yet attached.
The first novel, We Know You Remember, was published in Sweden in 2020 and won the Best Crime Novel of the Year Award as well as The Glass Key Award, the most prestigious prize in the genre in the Nordic region. It was shortlisted for Best Book of the Year.
We Know You Remember introduces police detective Eira Sjodin as she investigates the disappearance of a girl, a hidden body, and a decades-long cover-up. The classic procedural meets Scandinavian atmosphere in this rich, character-driven mystery that heralds the American debut of a supremely skilled international writer.
John Wells and Erin Jontow executive produce for John Wells Productions. Alsterdal is co-executive producer.
The project, which is in very early stages, comes off the...
The first novel, We Know You Remember, was published in Sweden in 2020 and won the Best Crime Novel of the Year Award as well as The Glass Key Award, the most prestigious prize in the genre in the Nordic region. It was shortlisted for Best Book of the Year.
We Know You Remember introduces police detective Eira Sjodin as she investigates the disappearance of a girl, a hidden body, and a decades-long cover-up. The classic procedural meets Scandinavian atmosphere in this rich, character-driven mystery that heralds the American debut of a supremely skilled international writer.
John Wells and Erin Jontow executive produce for John Wells Productions. Alsterdal is co-executive producer.
The project, which is in very early stages, comes off the...
- 11/22/2021
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
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