I hope you're happy, "Wicked" fans. The "Wizard of Oz" musical, itself based on the fanciful, world building-dense Gregory Maguire novel that re-imagines the characters and stories from L. Frank Baum's "Oz" books, has been slow to make the leap from stage to screen. On the way, it also went from a single film to two, which is a bit disconcerting for a work that clocks in at a tightly-paced two and a half hours in its original form. The movie features new songs and script material by returning "Wicked" lyricist Stephen Schwartz and writer Winnie Holzman, but will that be enough to justify the split? Or should we be concerned that something bad is happening in Oz?
(Also yes, for those who are wondering, I will be making "Wicked" puns for the rest of this article because I'm nothing if not committed to the bit.)
Both "Wicked" films...
(Also yes, for those who are wondering, I will be making "Wicked" puns for the rest of this article because I'm nothing if not committed to the bit.)
Both "Wicked" films...
- 5/15/2024
- by Sandy Schaefer
- Slash Film
Songwriters Benj Pasek and Justin Paul are one step away from achieving Egot status, needing only an Emmy to complete the prestigious quartet of entertainment honors. The duo has submitted “Which of the Pickwick Triplets Did It?” from Hulu’s “Only Murders in the Building” for outstanding music and lyrics at this year’s Emmys. If they are nominated and win at the September ceremony, Pasek and Paul will become the 20th and 21st Egot recipients, joining the ranks of legends Richard Rodgers, Marvin Hamlisch and Elton John.
The song, co-written with celebrated composers Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, is performed by Steve Martin in the show’s eighth episode, “Sitzprobe,” helmed by Shari Springer Berman and Robert Pulcini. It will be the only original song the series submits this year, chosen over others such as “Look for the Light,” performed by Meryl Streep and Ashley Park, and two versions...
The song, co-written with celebrated composers Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, is performed by Steve Martin in the show’s eighth episode, “Sitzprobe,” helmed by Shari Springer Berman and Robert Pulcini. It will be the only original song the series submits this year, chosen over others such as “Look for the Light,” performed by Meryl Streep and Ashley Park, and two versions...
- 5/2/2024
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
When the 77th Tony Awards nominations are announced this morning, those honored with recognition will have been selected by a small group of theatre professionals who commit to seeing each and every eligible production that opened during the 2023-2024 season. They are thus able to make informed decisions on what shows, performers and creatives should earn the spotlight of New York theatre’s top honor.
This past season, 60 theatre professionals saw all 36 eligible musicals, play, and revivals and will select the nominees in 26 competitive categories.
Below, see a complete list of the 2023-2024 Tony Awards nominating committee members, including their professions plus past Tony nominations and wins. Some of these nominators may have to recuse themselves prior to voting if they have a conflict, such as if a production that they worked is eligible for a nomination this year.
Watch 2024 Tony Awards nominations slugfest: Final predictions in 17 competitive categories
Warren Adams,...
This past season, 60 theatre professionals saw all 36 eligible musicals, play, and revivals and will select the nominees in 26 competitive categories.
Below, see a complete list of the 2023-2024 Tony Awards nominating committee members, including their professions plus past Tony nominations and wins. Some of these nominators may have to recuse themselves prior to voting if they have a conflict, such as if a production that they worked is eligible for a nomination this year.
Watch 2024 Tony Awards nominations slugfest: Final predictions in 17 competitive categories
Warren Adams,...
- 4/30/2024
- by David Buchanan
- Gold Derby
Just weeks ago, Sir Elton John became the 19th entertainer to win the highly desirable Egot by claiming his first ever Emmy Award. And now, which person is the most likely to be the 20th Egot later this year, in 2025 or beyond? Here is a summary of the 80 people who have the best chance right now.
The most likely duo could be composers Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (actually meaning a 20th and 21st Egot if they win). They are producers and songwriters for the third season of “Only Murders in the Building,” so they will have a couple of opportunities in September at the Emmys. They first won an Oscar, Tony, and Grammy.
For the 2024 Grammys, nobody is nominated who could become an Egot, so the next possible chance would be 2025. There are a total of 25 people who have won everything needed except a Grammy. They are actress Ellen Burstyn,...
The most likely duo could be composers Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (actually meaning a 20th and 21st Egot if they win). They are producers and songwriters for the third season of “Only Murders in the Building,” so they will have a couple of opportunities in September at the Emmys. They first won an Oscar, Tony, and Grammy.
For the 2024 Grammys, nobody is nominated who could become an Egot, so the next possible chance would be 2025. There are a total of 25 people who have won everything needed except a Grammy. They are actress Ellen Burstyn,...
- 1/29/2024
- by Chris Beachum
- Gold Derby
Sixty-two years after the release of the film “Days of Wine and Roses,” the Oscar-winning movie by writer J.P. Miller and director Blake Edwards, a musical adaptation has opened on Broadway with a score by Adam Guettel. The story of two characters brought together and torn asunder by alcohol stars Kelli O’Hara and Brian d’Arcy James in the roles played in the movie by Lee Remick and Jack Lemmon. The production opened at Studio 54 on Jan. 28.
In addition to reuniting Guettel and O’Hara, who collaborated on “The Light in the Piazza,” the librettist Craig Lucas from that musical contributed the book for this new venture. The ensemble cast includes Tabitha Lawing and Byron Jennings in pivotal roles under the helm of director Michael Greif.
Theatre critics were largely positive about this new Guettel musical. It earns a Critic’s Pick from Laura Collins-Hughes (New York Times), who praises the “superb” performances,...
In addition to reuniting Guettel and O’Hara, who collaborated on “The Light in the Piazza,” the librettist Craig Lucas from that musical contributed the book for this new venture. The ensemble cast includes Tabitha Lawing and Byron Jennings in pivotal roles under the helm of director Michael Greif.
Theatre critics were largely positive about this new Guettel musical. It earns a Critic’s Pick from Laura Collins-Hughes (New York Times), who praises the “superb” performances,...
- 1/29/2024
- by David Buchanan
- Gold Derby
“Wonka” has crossed a sweet box office milestone. The fantasy musical, starring Timothée Chalamet as the eccentric chocolatier, surpassed $500 million in global ticket sales.
After five weeks on the big screen, “Wonka” has generated $176.2 million domestically and $329.1 million internationally, bringing its global tally to $505.3 million. Warner Bros. backed the film, which cost $125 million and has proven to be a worthy revisit to the world of pure imagination.
Chalamet’s star power, having endeared himself to moviegoers through blockbusters (“Dune”) and indies, has played a part in the triumph of “Wonka.” Of course, the movie also has the benefit of brand recognition from Roald Dahl’s seminal novel “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” as well as the 1971 film adaptation with Gene Wilder and the 2005 reboot starring Johnny Depp. But at a time when family audiences (the film’s target demographic) have been picky about what they’re willing to pay to see on the big screen,...
After five weeks on the big screen, “Wonka” has generated $176.2 million domestically and $329.1 million internationally, bringing its global tally to $505.3 million. Warner Bros. backed the film, which cost $125 million and has proven to be a worthy revisit to the world of pure imagination.
Chalamet’s star power, having endeared himself to moviegoers through blockbusters (“Dune”) and indies, has played a part in the triumph of “Wonka.” Of course, the movie also has the benefit of brand recognition from Roald Dahl’s seminal novel “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” as well as the 1971 film adaptation with Gene Wilder and the 2005 reboot starring Johnny Depp. But at a time when family audiences (the film’s target demographic) have been picky about what they’re willing to pay to see on the big screen,...
- 1/14/2024
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
With the Screen-to-Stage-back to Screen adaptation of Mean Girls landing in first place this weekend, we wanted to know what film based on a play has been your favorite? Are Oscar winning musicals such as Chicago or Amadeus your favorite? Maybe the classics like Grease or Little Shop of Horrors are more your speed? Or perhaps a nice court room drama such as A Few Good Men ranks number one for you? If you don’t see your favorite listed click the “Other” button and let us know what your favorite is in the comments.
Favorite Stage-to-Screen AdaptationCasablanca (1943)West Side Story (1961)My Fair Lady (1964)The Sound of Music (1965)A Man For All Seasons (1966)Oliver! (1968)Amadeus (1984)Driving Miss Daisy (1989)Chicago (2002)Alfie (1966)American Buffalo (1996)Annie (1982)Annie Get Your Gun (1950)A Bronx Tale (1993)Bug (2007)Cabaret (1972)Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1958)Children of a Lesser God (1986)Closer (2004)The Crucible (1996)Cyrano (2021)Dear Evan Hansen...
Favorite Stage-to-Screen AdaptationCasablanca (1943)West Side Story (1961)My Fair Lady (1964)The Sound of Music (1965)A Man For All Seasons (1966)Oliver! (1968)Amadeus (1984)Driving Miss Daisy (1989)Chicago (2002)Alfie (1966)American Buffalo (1996)Annie (1982)Annie Get Your Gun (1950)A Bronx Tale (1993)Bug (2007)Cabaret (1972)Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1958)Children of a Lesser God (1986)Closer (2004)The Crucible (1996)Cyrano (2021)Dear Evan Hansen...
- 1/14/2024
- by Brad Hamerly
- JoBlo.com
“Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” is quickly sinking at the box office.
The comic book adventure, starring Jason Momoa as the King of Atlantis, was positioned on the calendar as the de facto blockbuster of the holiday season. But, so far, the follow-up to 2018’s megahit “Aquaman” has failed to recapture the spark of the original. The $205 million-budgeted tentpole caps off 2023, a terrible year for superhero movies, as the fourth consecutive flop for Warner Bros. and DC Studios following “The Flash,” “Shazam! Fury of the Gods” and “Blue Beetle.”
“Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” swam to second place in its sophomore outing, collecting a soft $19.5 million over the weekend and an estimated $26 million through New Year’s Day on Monday. It has grossed $84 million domestically and $258 million globally after two weeks of release, on par with eventual comic book disappointments like “The Flash,” “The Marvels” and “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania.
The comic book adventure, starring Jason Momoa as the King of Atlantis, was positioned on the calendar as the de facto blockbuster of the holiday season. But, so far, the follow-up to 2018’s megahit “Aquaman” has failed to recapture the spark of the original. The $205 million-budgeted tentpole caps off 2023, a terrible year for superhero movies, as the fourth consecutive flop for Warner Bros. and DC Studios following “The Flash,” “Shazam! Fury of the Gods” and “Blue Beetle.”
“Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” swam to second place in its sophomore outing, collecting a soft $19.5 million over the weekend and an estimated $26 million through New Year’s Day on Monday. It has grossed $84 million domestically and $258 million globally after two weeks of release, on par with eventual comic book disappointments like “The Flash,” “The Marvels” and “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania.
- 12/31/2023
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
“The Color Purple” added $7.1 million on Tuesday, bringing its domestic box office tally to an impressive $25 million after two days of release.
The Warner Bros. film, an adaptation of the book-turned-beloved-movie-turned-hit-Broadway-musical, opened in theaters on Monday. It nearly set a holiday record with $18 million, marking the largest Christmas Day opening for a movie since 2009 and the second-biggest Christmas Day opening of all time.
Blitz Bazawule directed “The Color Purple,” which is off to an encouraging start for a musical. Stage-to-screen adaptations have a spotty (at best) track record, with recent attempts like Steven Spielberg’s “West Side Story” remake, “In the Heights,” “Dear Evan Hansen” and “Cats” failing to resonate at the box office. But it cost $100 million, so “The Color Purple” needs to remain the de facto choice for families through the new year in order to turn a profit. Positive reviews and encouraging word-of-mouth should help the movie...
The Warner Bros. film, an adaptation of the book-turned-beloved-movie-turned-hit-Broadway-musical, opened in theaters on Monday. It nearly set a holiday record with $18 million, marking the largest Christmas Day opening for a movie since 2009 and the second-biggest Christmas Day opening of all time.
Blitz Bazawule directed “The Color Purple,” which is off to an encouraging start for a musical. Stage-to-screen adaptations have a spotty (at best) track record, with recent attempts like Steven Spielberg’s “West Side Story” remake, “In the Heights,” “Dear Evan Hansen” and “Cats” failing to resonate at the box office. But it cost $100 million, so “The Color Purple” needs to remain the de facto choice for families through the new year in order to turn a profit. Positive reviews and encouraging word-of-mouth should help the movie...
- 12/27/2023
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
“The Color Purple,” a vibrant adaptation of the book-turned-beloved-movie-turned-hit-Broadway-musical, dominated at the box office on Christmas Day.
The film has outperformed expectations with $18 million from 3,152 North American theaters. It’s the largest Christmas Day opening for a film since 2009, and the second-biggest Christmas Day opening of all time.
Those ticket sales were enough to lead the way on Monday ahead of two other newcomers, Neon’s racing drama “Ferrari” and director George Clooney’s inspirational sports story “The Boys in the Boat.” Warner Bros. impressively held the top three spots on domestic charts as “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” and “Wonka” swam to second and third place, respectively.
Boosted by positive reviews and a glowing “A” CinemaScore, “The Color Purple” marks the first musical in some time that’s resonated at the box office. The film, backed by Warner Bros. and directed by Blitz Bazawule, collected more in a single...
The film has outperformed expectations with $18 million from 3,152 North American theaters. It’s the largest Christmas Day opening for a film since 2009, and the second-biggest Christmas Day opening of all time.
Those ticket sales were enough to lead the way on Monday ahead of two other newcomers, Neon’s racing drama “Ferrari” and director George Clooney’s inspirational sports story “The Boys in the Boat.” Warner Bros. impressively held the top three spots on domestic charts as “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” and “Wonka” swam to second and third place, respectively.
Boosted by positive reviews and a glowing “A” CinemaScore, “The Color Purple” marks the first musical in some time that’s resonated at the box office. The film, backed by Warner Bros. and directed by Blitz Bazawule, collected more in a single...
- 12/26/2023
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
The sound of music was back with us this week in the form of two polar opposite productions that may intrigue audiences but challenge marketers.
Maestro started streaming on Netflix after auditioning in a (very) few select theaters. Will its narcissistic protagonist, Leonard Bernstein, prove bigger than life on theater screens but too big for the tube?
Wonka, by contrast, is a study in promotional ubiquity, fragments popping up on everything from TBS to the Food Network. Its campaign reflects the determination of Warner Bros Discovery, like Netflix, to overcome the genre funk (think West Side Story or Dear Evan Hansen).
Hovering in the background are the bakeoffs, recaps and revisits fostered by an Academy eager to get out the vote for international candidates, fulfilling its global scenario.
Gil Cates, the colorful impresario who presided over 14 Oscar shows and rescued the genre from the Snow White debacle, would likely have been delighted by Barbenheimer.
Maestro started streaming on Netflix after auditioning in a (very) few select theaters. Will its narcissistic protagonist, Leonard Bernstein, prove bigger than life on theater screens but too big for the tube?
Wonka, by contrast, is a study in promotional ubiquity, fragments popping up on everything from TBS to the Food Network. Its campaign reflects the determination of Warner Bros Discovery, like Netflix, to overcome the genre funk (think West Side Story or Dear Evan Hansen).
Hovering in the background are the bakeoffs, recaps and revisits fostered by an Academy eager to get out the vote for international candidates, fulfilling its global scenario.
Gil Cates, the colorful impresario who presided over 14 Oscar shows and rescued the genre from the Snow White debacle, would likely have been delighted by Barbenheimer.
- 12/20/2023
- by Peter Bart
- Deadline Film + TV
According to the current combined predictions of Gold Derby users, reigning Tony champ “Kimberly Akimbo” is the frontrunner to win this year’s Grammy for Best Musical Theater Album with 10/3 odds. So far within this century 10 shows that won Tonys for both Best Musical and Best Score also came out on top at the Grammys. Among them are “The Producers,” “Hairspray,” “Spring Awakening,” “In the Heights,” “The Book of Mormon,” “Kinky Boots,” “Hamilton,” “Dear Evan Hansen,” “The Band’s Visit” and “Hadestown.” Will that trend continue this year?
SEEGrammys flashback: Revisiting The Weeknd’s notorious, confounding 2021 snub
“Kimberly Akimbo” features a score by Jeanine Tesori and David Lindsay-Abaire. Tesori has been nominated five times before but still has yet to win. Those previous bids were for “Thoroughly Modern Millie” in 2003 (lost to “Hairspray”), “Shrek the Musical” in 2010 (lost to “West Side Story”), “Fun Home” in 2016 (lost to “Hamilton”), “Soft Power” in...
SEEGrammys flashback: Revisiting The Weeknd’s notorious, confounding 2021 snub
“Kimberly Akimbo” features a score by Jeanine Tesori and David Lindsay-Abaire. Tesori has been nominated five times before but still has yet to win. Those previous bids were for “Thoroughly Modern Millie” in 2003 (lost to “Hairspray”), “Shrek the Musical” in 2010 (lost to “West Side Story”), “Fun Home” in 2016 (lost to “Hamilton”), “Soft Power” in...
- 12/15/2023
- by Jeffrey Kare
- Gold Derby
Matt Bomer revealed to Vanity Fair that he sent in a self-taped audition to play one of the many iterations of Ken in Greta Gerwig’s blockbuster comedy “Barbie,” but he ultimately decided not to join the movie so he could prioritize spending time with his family. He was offered a shot at auditioning and was interested in the project enough to send a self-tape to Gerwig and the casting directors.
“I recorded it on my own, played a bunch of different Kens — and I dressed differently for all of them,” Bomer said. “I recorded the lines of the other person’s dialogue on my recorder and then gave myself space to respond.”
Per Vanity Fair: “He then spoke with director Greta Gerwig about joining the blockbuster, but ultimately walked away from the opportunity, choosing not to spend extensive time away from his family.”
Bomer is hardly the only actor...
“I recorded it on my own, played a bunch of different Kens — and I dressed differently for all of them,” Bomer said. “I recorded the lines of the other person’s dialogue on my recorder and then gave myself space to respond.”
Per Vanity Fair: “He then spoke with director Greta Gerwig about joining the blockbuster, but ultimately walked away from the opportunity, choosing not to spend extensive time away from his family.”
Bomer is hardly the only actor...
- 11/22/2023
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
It’s only Wednesday, but it’s already been a long week/month/year, hasn’t it? The WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes are still raging. Traffic is as bad as ever. Every appointment you try to make results in a dropped call or “She can see you in her office in late November” response.
Let’s face it: you need a mental health break like nobody’s business. And we have just what you’re looking for right here: Steve Martin (Charles-Haden Savage) performing the rousing new “Only Murders in the Building” tune “Which of the Pickwick Triplets Did It?”, a song written specifically for the show. It’s written by Benji Pasek & Justin Paul (“La La Land,” “Dear Evan Hansen” and “The Greatest Showman”), the Emmy and Tony-winning songwriter/composer Marc Shaiman (“Hairspray”) and Tony, Grammy and Olivier Award-winning songwriter Scott Wittman (“Hairspray”). Watch Martin perform the song in the video above.
Let’s face it: you need a mental health break like nobody’s business. And we have just what you’re looking for right here: Steve Martin (Charles-Haden Savage) performing the rousing new “Only Murders in the Building” tune “Which of the Pickwick Triplets Did It?”, a song written specifically for the show. It’s written by Benji Pasek & Justin Paul (“La La Land,” “Dear Evan Hansen” and “The Greatest Showman”), the Emmy and Tony-winning songwriter/composer Marc Shaiman (“Hairspray”) and Tony, Grammy and Olivier Award-winning songwriter Scott Wittman (“Hairspray”). Watch Martin perform the song in the video above.
- 9/21/2023
- by Ray Richmond
- Gold Derby
Carole Rothman, co-founder of the renowned New York theater company Second Stage responsible for such acclaimed productions as Dear Evan Hansen, Next To Normal, This Is Our Youth and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, is leaving the company she started in 1979.
“For 45 years, I have had the great honor of working with countless incredible artists and playwrights, many at the beginning of their careers, who are now among the brightest stars in the industry,” said Rothman in a statement. “The shows we have brought to life have been award-winners, conversation-starters, and groundbreakers. I’m forever grateful to all the people who have helped make Second Stage the creative springboard it is today. I’m so proud of what we have accomplished together.”
Rothman’s announcement did not state a specific reason for her departure or her immediate plans.
Since its founding by Rothman and Robyn Goodman (who left...
“For 45 years, I have had the great honor of working with countless incredible artists and playwrights, many at the beginning of their careers, who are now among the brightest stars in the industry,” said Rothman in a statement. “The shows we have brought to life have been award-winners, conversation-starters, and groundbreakers. I’m forever grateful to all the people who have helped make Second Stage the creative springboard it is today. I’m so proud of what we have accomplished together.”
Rothman’s announcement did not state a specific reason for her departure or her immediate plans.
Since its founding by Rothman and Robyn Goodman (who left...
- 9/20/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Anyone who knows and loves a theater kid understands that they can be… a little much. To their credit, theater kids accept and embrace this reputation. Both the excessiveness of theater kids and their willingness to celebrate their extremities can be seen in the comedy Theater Camp, directed by Molly Gordon and Nick Lieberman. After winning over critics and earning a strong, if limited, return in theaters, Theater Camp has come to Hulu.
Based on a short film that Gordon and Lieberman made with Ben Platt and Noah Galvin, Theater Camp features a group of theater kids trying to save their camp from the founder’s jerky son, who wants to sell it off for something more profitable. Both self-aware and sincere, Theater Camp is a love letter to the over-the-top nerds who can sing every word of A Chorus Line and know that Andrew Rannells was in Street Sharks.
Based on a short film that Gordon and Lieberman made with Ben Platt and Noah Galvin, Theater Camp features a group of theater kids trying to save their camp from the founder’s jerky son, who wants to sell it off for something more profitable. Both self-aware and sincere, Theater Camp is a love letter to the over-the-top nerds who can sing every word of A Chorus Line and know that Andrew Rannells was in Street Sharks.
- 9/14/2023
- by Joe George
- Den of Geek
Fan are finding a new reason to love Meryl Streep thanks to her lullaby in the latest episode of “Only Murders in the Building,” which you can watch in the video above.
In the third season of Hulu’s murder mystery, Streep plays Loretta Durkin, a struggling actress who finds her big break in Oliver’s (Martin Short) latest play. The scene starts as all of the character’s do: Loretta is supposed to perform a small scene for her small role. But seconds into her performance of “Look for the Light,” her on-stage charisma and raw talent transfix her castmates.
By the song’s end, Kimber (Ashley Park) joins her on stage as they both belt out this delicate lullaby.
Though “Only Murders in the Building’s” latest episode premiered on Tuesday, by Wednesday fans were singing the song’s praises. “I’ve been listening to it on Spotify for 12 hours now,...
In the third season of Hulu’s murder mystery, Streep plays Loretta Durkin, a struggling actress who finds her big break in Oliver’s (Martin Short) latest play. The scene starts as all of the character’s do: Loretta is supposed to perform a small scene for her small role. But seconds into her performance of “Look for the Light,” her on-stage charisma and raw talent transfix her castmates.
By the song’s end, Kimber (Ashley Park) joins her on stage as they both belt out this delicate lullaby.
Though “Only Murders in the Building’s” latest episode premiered on Tuesday, by Wednesday fans were singing the song’s praises. “I’ve been listening to it on Spotify for 12 hours now,...
- 8/16/2023
- by Kayla Cobb
- The Wrap
Greta Gerwig revealed in an interview with Hollywood First Look during her “Barbie” press tour that Timothée Chalamet visited the film’s set in London and lamented over not being able to star in the film. Gerwig directed Chalamet in both “Lady Bird” and “Little Women.” The filmmaker previously told CinemaBlend that Chalamet and her muse Saoirse Ronan were courted for cameo appearances in “Barbie” but scheduling conflicts got in the way.
“I tried to get them both in it. They both couldn’t do it,” Gerwig reiterated to Hollywood First Look. “Although Timothée did come by the set and then said, ‘I should have been in this,’ And I was like, ‘I know! Why aren’t you in this?’”
Gerwig previously said that she had planned for Chalamet and Ronan to appear in “Barbie” in “speciality cameos,” but “both of them couldn’t do it and I was so annoyed.
“I tried to get them both in it. They both couldn’t do it,” Gerwig reiterated to Hollywood First Look. “Although Timothée did come by the set and then said, ‘I should have been in this,’ And I was like, ‘I know! Why aren’t you in this?’”
Gerwig previously said that she had planned for Chalamet and Ronan to appear in “Barbie” in “speciality cameos,” but “both of them couldn’t do it and I was so annoyed.
- 8/16/2023
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
Gal Gadot Says Being Margot Robbie’s First Choice for Barbie ‘Warmed My Heart’: ‘I Was Very Touched’
Given the $1 billion success of “Barbie,” it’s hard to picture anyone in the title role other than Margot Robbie. But the actor explained to Vogue back in May that it was actually Gal Gadot who was her first choice to star as Barbie. Robbie is a producer on “Barbie” and did not immediately envision herself in the role. Gadot was at the top of her list, but scheduling conflicts prevented the “Wonder Woman” star from entering Barbieland.
“I adore Margot,” Gadot now tells Flaunt magazine about being the top choice for the “Barbie” movie. “Margot is one of those women who you just want to be friends with. She is so funny, warm, fun and smart and obviously so talented. She brings so much to the table. I would love to do anything with Margot and was very touched [by her comments]. She warmed my heart with everything that she said about me.
“I adore Margot,” Gadot now tells Flaunt magazine about being the top choice for the “Barbie” movie. “Margot is one of those women who you just want to be friends with. She is so funny, warm, fun and smart and obviously so talented. She brings so much to the table. I would love to do anything with Margot and was very touched [by her comments]. She warmed my heart with everything that she said about me.
- 8/11/2023
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
With its list of new releases for August 2023, Prime Video is relying on a heaping dose of fun library movies.
The first of the month brings a big influx of worthwhile flicks, including Galaxy Quest, Saw, F9: The Fast Saga, and Jurassic Park (the last two via Amazon’s Freevee free streaming option). Then some other recents hits arrive later on like the appropriately titled Cocaine Bear on Aug. 15 and the Chris Pine-starring Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves on Aug. 25.
August also sees the arrival of a major Amazon Original movie in the form of Red, White & Royal Blue. Based on a New York Times bestselling book, this LGBTQ romance follows a U.S. president’s son and a British prince. Over on the TV side of things, Prime Video subscribers can check out the Sigourney Weaver project The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart on Aug. 4 and Harlan Coben’s Shelter on Aug.
The first of the month brings a big influx of worthwhile flicks, including Galaxy Quest, Saw, F9: The Fast Saga, and Jurassic Park (the last two via Amazon’s Freevee free streaming option). Then some other recents hits arrive later on like the appropriately titled Cocaine Bear on Aug. 15 and the Chris Pine-starring Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves on Aug. 25.
August also sees the arrival of a major Amazon Original movie in the form of Red, White & Royal Blue. Based on a New York Times bestselling book, this LGBTQ romance follows a U.S. president’s son and a British prince. Over on the TV side of things, Prime Video subscribers can check out the Sigourney Weaver project The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart on Aug. 4 and Harlan Coben’s Shelter on Aug.
- 8/1/2023
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
The musical romantic comedy series “Up Here” has been canceled after just one season at Hulu, Variety has learned.
The series’ one and only season debuted on Hulu back on March 24. It was originally ordered to series at the streamer in January 2022.
The series boasted an all-star lineup behind the camera. Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, the songwriters of “Frozen” and “Frozen 2” wrote original songs for the series and executive produced, while Steven Levenson, who wrote the book for “Dear Evan Hansen,” and veteran TV writer Danielle Sanchez-Witzel served as writers and executive producers.
Thomas Kail, who previously directed Broadway shows like “Hamilton” and “In the Heights,” directed and executive produced under his Old 320 Sycamore Productions banner. Jennifer Todd of Old 320 Sycamore also executive produced. 20th Television was the studio. Old 320 Sycamore is currently under an overall deal at the studio.
Mae Whitman and Carlos Valdes led the cast,...
The series’ one and only season debuted on Hulu back on March 24. It was originally ordered to series at the streamer in January 2022.
The series boasted an all-star lineup behind the camera. Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, the songwriters of “Frozen” and “Frozen 2” wrote original songs for the series and executive produced, while Steven Levenson, who wrote the book for “Dear Evan Hansen,” and veteran TV writer Danielle Sanchez-Witzel served as writers and executive producers.
Thomas Kail, who previously directed Broadway shows like “Hamilton” and “In the Heights,” directed and executive produced under his Old 320 Sycamore Productions banner. Jennifer Todd of Old 320 Sycamore also executive produced. 20th Television was the studio. Old 320 Sycamore is currently under an overall deal at the studio.
Mae Whitman and Carlos Valdes led the cast,...
- 7/28/2023
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Greta Gerwig's "Barbie" movie is killing it at the box office. Friendly debates about whether to schedule your "Barbenheimer" screenings with "Barbie" first or second have took over social media, and of course, there are lots of pundits complaining about how "Barbie" is going to make your little girls want to reach for their dreams and how that's horrible or something. Whatever. It's a brilliant movie that features Ryan Gosling singing a song about how Ken dolls are unappreciated, and if that doesn't suck you in, nothing will.
Gosling plays the main Ken, with other Kens played by Kingsley Ben-Adir, Simu Liu, Ncuti Gatwa, and Scott Evans, with John Cena appearing as a Mermaid Ken. Between the delightful outfits, smiling faces, and stellar choreography, lots of actors wanted in on the Ken doll action. Sadly, a few big names didn't make the cut, thanks to Covid shooting restrictions, according...
Gosling plays the main Ken, with other Kens played by Kingsley Ben-Adir, Simu Liu, Ncuti Gatwa, and Scott Evans, with John Cena appearing as a Mermaid Ken. Between the delightful outfits, smiling faces, and stellar choreography, lots of actors wanted in on the Ken doll action. Sadly, a few big names didn't make the cut, thanks to Covid shooting restrictions, according...
- 7/28/2023
- by Jenna Busch
- Slash Film
These actors could have been Ken-tenders.
In an interview with Vanity Fair, “Barbie” casting director Allison Jones revealed which actors almost got to play Kens in the blockbuster.
Read More: Amy Schumer Has A Delightful Take On ‘Barbie’ After Overcoming Past ‘Creative Differences’
“Saturday Night Live” star Bowen Yang, “Dear Evan Hansen” star Ben Platt and “Schitt’s Creek” alum Dan Levy were all in the running to star as one of the Kens.
“They were, I’m not kidding,” Jones said, adding that she was “really bummed they couldn’t do it.”
Read More: BTS’ Jimin Thanks Ryan Gosling For Sending Him Ken’s Guitar After His Cowboy Look Appeared In ‘Barbie’
All three actors unfortunately had to opt out of the movie due to scheduling issues, as did actor Jonathan Groff, who had been approached to play Ken’s friend Allan.
“Dear, dear Jonathan Groff was like, ‘I can...
In an interview with Vanity Fair, “Barbie” casting director Allison Jones revealed which actors almost got to play Kens in the blockbuster.
Read More: Amy Schumer Has A Delightful Take On ‘Barbie’ After Overcoming Past ‘Creative Differences’
“Saturday Night Live” star Bowen Yang, “Dear Evan Hansen” star Ben Platt and “Schitt’s Creek” alum Dan Levy were all in the running to star as one of the Kens.
“They were, I’m not kidding,” Jones said, adding that she was “really bummed they couldn’t do it.”
Read More: BTS’ Jimin Thanks Ryan Gosling For Sending Him Ken’s Guitar After His Cowboy Look Appeared In ‘Barbie’
All three actors unfortunately had to opt out of the movie due to scheduling issues, as did actor Jonathan Groff, who had been approached to play Ken’s friend Allan.
“Dear, dear Jonathan Groff was like, ‘I can...
- 7/25/2023
- by Corey Atad
- ET Canada
Ben Platt has apparently decided he’s no longer going to speak about his mega-producer father Marc Platt — and the internet is so not here for it.
During the press tour for his new film “Theater Camp,” which Platt cowrote with Molly Gordon (who herself is born to director Bryan Gordon and writer-director Jessie Nelson), a reporter for Rolling Stone asked him about being featured on New York Magazine’s infamous nepo baby cover from December.
“You were on the cover of New York Magazine’s Nepo Baby Issue. I’m curious what was your response to that? And what do you make of that whole discourse?” journalist Ej Dickson asked.
“We’re going to skip right over that if we can,” Platt responded.
“No comment?” Dickson responds.
The feature then indicated that Platt’s publicist intervened, saying, “If we could just focus on ‘Theater Camp,’ that would be great.
During the press tour for his new film “Theater Camp,” which Platt cowrote with Molly Gordon (who herself is born to director Bryan Gordon and writer-director Jessie Nelson), a reporter for Rolling Stone asked him about being featured on New York Magazine’s infamous nepo baby cover from December.
“You were on the cover of New York Magazine’s Nepo Baby Issue. I’m curious what was your response to that? And what do you make of that whole discourse?” journalist Ej Dickson asked.
“We’re going to skip right over that if we can,” Platt responded.
“No comment?” Dickson responds.
The feature then indicated that Platt’s publicist intervened, saying, “If we could just focus on ‘Theater Camp,’ that would be great.
- 7/15/2023
- by Joseph Kapsch
- The Wrap
In many ways, Ben Platt is one of the most successful theater kids of our time, third only to Lin-Manuel Miranda and Taylor Swift (proof of this ignominious past can be found here and here). The prodigiously talented tenor grew up with fellow L.A.-based theater kid Molly Gordon and Bff Beanie Feldstein, attending a performing arts school and appearing in the ultimate theater kid role as Winthrop in a Hollywood Bowl production of The Music Man starring Kristin Chenoweth.
Platt was cast as the intensely troubled Evan Hansen...
Platt was cast as the intensely troubled Evan Hansen...
- 7/14/2023
- by Ej Dickson
- Rollingstone.com
Not since Ben Affleck and Matt Damon’s “Good Will Hunting” has a group of actors (and actual friends) so felicitously taken a movie into their own hands.
Two childhood pals, Tony winner Ben Platt (“Dear Evan Hansen”) and “The Bear” star Molly Gordon, alongside Gordon’s “Booksmart” co-star Noah Galvin, plus Nick Lieberman, their go-to video director, spent the early days of the pandemic writing “Theater Camp,” itself a feature version of their 2020 18-minute mockumentary of the same name.
Platt, Gordon, and Galvin also starred in both the short (financed by Platt) and the feature film, while Lieberman directed the short and co-directed the feature with Gordon. The four are also all credited producers. Talk about do-it-yourself.
Platt and Lieberman have collaborated on improv and sketch comedy videos since they were just teenagers. “He is like a vital voice in the group as a director and a writer,” Platt told IndieWire.
Two childhood pals, Tony winner Ben Platt (“Dear Evan Hansen”) and “The Bear” star Molly Gordon, alongside Gordon’s “Booksmart” co-star Noah Galvin, plus Nick Lieberman, their go-to video director, spent the early days of the pandemic writing “Theater Camp,” itself a feature version of their 2020 18-minute mockumentary of the same name.
Platt, Gordon, and Galvin also starred in both the short (financed by Platt) and the feature film, while Lieberman directed the short and co-directed the feature with Gordon. The four are also all credited producers. Talk about do-it-yourself.
Platt and Lieberman have collaborated on improv and sketch comedy videos since they were just teenagers. “He is like a vital voice in the group as a director and a writer,” Platt told IndieWire.
- 7/11/2023
- by Anne Thompson
- Indiewire
Noah Galvin and Ben Platt are one of the cutest (and most talented) couples around. The actors, who both portrayed the titular character in Broadway's "Dear Evan Hansen," were friends for years before their relationship turned romantic. While making an appearance on "The Kelly Clarkson Show" in June 2021, Platt revealed that he and Galvin actually "skated around" the idea of dating for a while before they finally decided to give it a shot. "I didn't see the light for a long time and then I [realized], you know, that he was the guy," Platt said.
After officially getting together at the beginning of 2020, the stars moved in with Platt's parents during the pandemic. "It ended up being a beautiful time," Platt said. Now, years later, Galvin and Platt are engaged. During an April 2023 appearance on "The View," Platt said the couple aren't in a rush to get married because they want...
After officially getting together at the beginning of 2020, the stars moved in with Platt's parents during the pandemic. "It ended up being a beautiful time," Platt said. Now, years later, Galvin and Platt are engaged. During an April 2023 appearance on "The View," Platt said the couple aren't in a rush to get married because they want...
- 7/11/2023
- by Michele Mendez
- Popsugar.com
Exclusive: CAA has signed actor Roman Banks for representation.
Banks was most recently tapped to star as Michael Jackson in the first national tour of the Tony-winning Mj: The Musical, set to open in August in Chicago.
He made his Broadway debut in 2018 as the first Bipoc actor to play the title role of Evan Hansen, as an understudy to Ben Platt, in the Tony-winning musical Dear Evan Hansen.
Banks also played the role of Howie in Season 2 of Disney+’s High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, and was the co-lead in the first live TikTok musical For You, Paige, which premiered last year.
In the brand space, CAA has secured multiple digital content partnerships for Banks with high-profile brands including Sperry and Coca-Cola.
Banks is managed by Lisa Filipelli and Paul Luckenbaugh at Select Management.
Banks was most recently tapped to star as Michael Jackson in the first national tour of the Tony-winning Mj: The Musical, set to open in August in Chicago.
He made his Broadway debut in 2018 as the first Bipoc actor to play the title role of Evan Hansen, as an understudy to Ben Platt, in the Tony-winning musical Dear Evan Hansen.
Banks also played the role of Howie in Season 2 of Disney+’s High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, and was the co-lead in the first live TikTok musical For You, Paige, which premiered last year.
In the brand space, CAA has secured multiple digital content partnerships for Banks with high-profile brands including Sperry and Coca-Cola.
Banks is managed by Lisa Filipelli and Paul Luckenbaugh at Select Management.
- 6/14/2023
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Jennifer Lawrence is putting her past dreams of directing to the side.
The “No Hard Feelings” actress revealed during Good Morning America that she is not looking to helm a project anytime soon.
“You know, I used to think that [I wanted to direct], and now I’m just so tired,” the Oscar winner said. “And it just looks so hard.”
The “Winter’s Bone” breakout star was attached in 2015 to direct “Project Delirium,” based on the New Yorker article “Operation Delirium” published in 2012 about military doctors running experiments on soldiers during the Cold War. Lawrence previously revealed ambitions to direct since she was 16.
Now to GMA, Lawrence, who produces director Gene Stupnitsky’s “No Hard Feelings,” shared that she was hesitant to even jump back into working after welcoming her first child with husband Cooke Maroney, whom Stupnitsky actually introduced her to.
“I had just had a baby, so I definitely wasn’t planning on working,...
The “No Hard Feelings” actress revealed during Good Morning America that she is not looking to helm a project anytime soon.
“You know, I used to think that [I wanted to direct], and now I’m just so tired,” the Oscar winner said. “And it just looks so hard.”
The “Winter’s Bone” breakout star was attached in 2015 to direct “Project Delirium,” based on the New Yorker article “Operation Delirium” published in 2012 about military doctors running experiments on soldiers during the Cold War. Lawrence previously revealed ambitions to direct since she was 16.
Now to GMA, Lawrence, who produces director Gene Stupnitsky’s “No Hard Feelings,” shared that she was hesitant to even jump back into working after welcoming her first child with husband Cooke Maroney, whom Stupnitsky actually introduced her to.
“I had just had a baby, so I definitely wasn’t planning on working,...
- 6/12/2023
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Ben Platt and his fiancé, Noah Galvin, were red carpet perfection at the 2023 Tony Awards on June 11, showing a little Pda as they posed together outside NYC's United Theater. Both wore black suits with double-breasted jackets and baggy pants, which they paired with chunky black dress shoes for the big occasion.
Platt was nominated for lead actor in a musical for his role in the "Parade" revival. He previously won in that category in 2017 for his turn as the title character in "Dear Evan Hansen." Notably, Galvin has also played Evan Hansen on Broadway.
The couple first confirmed their engagement on Nov. 25, 2022 after first publicly announcing their romance back in May 2020. Their first engagement was just the beginning though. On May 29, 2023, Platt revealed Galvin proposed back to him, captioning a photo of his new ring, "He proposed back," on his Instagram Story. The ring's design matches the one Platt proposed to Galvin with,...
Platt was nominated for lead actor in a musical for his role in the "Parade" revival. He previously won in that category in 2017 for his turn as the title character in "Dear Evan Hansen." Notably, Galvin has also played Evan Hansen on Broadway.
The couple first confirmed their engagement on Nov. 25, 2022 after first publicly announcing their romance back in May 2020. Their first engagement was just the beginning though. On May 29, 2023, Platt revealed Galvin proposed back to him, captioning a photo of his new ring, "He proposed back," on his Instagram Story. The ring's design matches the one Platt proposed to Galvin with,...
- 6/12/2023
- by Lindsay Kimble
- Popsugar.com
Bad Cinderella is taking its final bow.
The Andrew Lloyd Webber production announced on Wednesday that it will be closing at the Imperial Theatre on June 4, after opening in March.
The musical announced its closure after it failed to garner any Tony Award nominations, which were announced May 2. Bob Fosse’s Dancin‘, which also did not receive any nods, announced its closure that day.
Bad Cinderella had also seen weeks of declining grosses and attendance. In the most recent week of grosses, which ended May 7, the musical played to 53 percent capacity and grossed $326,303, which is below the running costs of most musicals.
As it stands, after Bad Cinderella plays its final performance, Lloyd Webber will not have a musical on Broadway for the first time in decades. He had been long represented by The Phantom of the Opera, which played its final performance on April 16, as well as other musicals such as Cats,...
The Andrew Lloyd Webber production announced on Wednesday that it will be closing at the Imperial Theatre on June 4, after opening in March.
The musical announced its closure after it failed to garner any Tony Award nominations, which were announced May 2. Bob Fosse’s Dancin‘, which also did not receive any nods, announced its closure that day.
Bad Cinderella had also seen weeks of declining grosses and attendance. In the most recent week of grosses, which ended May 7, the musical played to 53 percent capacity and grossed $326,303, which is below the running costs of most musicals.
As it stands, after Bad Cinderella plays its final performance, Lloyd Webber will not have a musical on Broadway for the first time in decades. He had been long represented by The Phantom of the Opera, which played its final performance on April 16, as well as other musicals such as Cats,...
- 5/11/2023
- by Christy Piña and Caitlin Huston
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Spoiler Alert: Do not read ahead if you have not watched the Season 9, episode 13 of “The Masked Singer,” which aired May 10 on Fox.
Pentatonix is pretty easy to recognize, as perhaps the best-known a cappella group performing today. So from the start, it was pretty easy to tell it was them on “The Masked Singer” – and indeed, the five-person group was unmasked as California Roll on Thursday’s show, which also doubled as the Season 9 semifinals.
For their first song, “Paparazzi,” group member Scott Hoying said they tried to avoid doing any harmonies at first, “so we could hide the iconic Pentatonix harmony sound for at least a minute. For the first minute, I was trying to really change my voice. But it didn’t work, because every comment on every video was like, ‘I knew from the beginning it was Pentatonix and I was confirmed as soon as they all came in.
Pentatonix is pretty easy to recognize, as perhaps the best-known a cappella group performing today. So from the start, it was pretty easy to tell it was them on “The Masked Singer” – and indeed, the five-person group was unmasked as California Roll on Thursday’s show, which also doubled as the Season 9 semifinals.
For their first song, “Paparazzi,” group member Scott Hoying said they tried to avoid doing any harmonies at first, “so we could hide the iconic Pentatonix harmony sound for at least a minute. For the first minute, I was trying to really change my voice. But it didn’t work, because every comment on every video was like, ‘I knew from the beginning it was Pentatonix and I was confirmed as soon as they all came in.
- 5/11/2023
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
At 20 years old, Gaten Matarazzo is already something of a Broadway veteran. The New Jersey native was only 9 when he made his debut in Priscilla Queen of the Desert, a few years older when he appeared in Les Misérables and then, just last year, took over the role of “Jared Kleinman” in the final Broadway cast of the hit musical Dear Evan Hansen.
Still, even theatergoers who had followed his career from the beginning couldn’t help but be caught off guard by his performance in Tony Award–winning director Thomas Kail’s current revival of the Stephen Sondheim and Hugh Wheeler dark, funny and musically lush classic Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. As the young orphan Tobias, Matarazzo is on stage for about 25 minutes of the musical’s just-shy-of-three-hour running time, and even alongside Broadway heavyweights Josh Groban and Annaleigh Ashford, the Stranger Things star more than holds his own.
Still, even theatergoers who had followed his career from the beginning couldn’t help but be caught off guard by his performance in Tony Award–winning director Thomas Kail’s current revival of the Stephen Sondheim and Hugh Wheeler dark, funny and musically lush classic Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. As the young orphan Tobias, Matarazzo is on stage for about 25 minutes of the musical’s just-shy-of-three-hour running time, and even alongside Broadway heavyweights Josh Groban and Annaleigh Ashford, the Stranger Things star more than holds his own.
- 4/28/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Jordan Fisher savors those 7 p.m. showtimes. It’s not that there’s a huge difference on the nights that Broadway’s revival of “Sweeney Todd” starts at 8 p.m. But the extra hour of freedom after curtain call at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre means he gets more time to spend with his family.
“I’ll get to bed an hour early and get up with my son so we can hang and have a little bit more time to chill in the morning,” Fisher says over espresso at a swanky bar in Manhattan’s theater district. He got married during the pandemic, and the couple welcomed their first child in last June. “A lot of my mornings are dictated by how late I go to bed. With a schedule like this, we go to work hours after people clocked out of their offices. My body has to get used to it.
“I’ll get to bed an hour early and get up with my son so we can hang and have a little bit more time to chill in the morning,” Fisher says over espresso at a swanky bar in Manhattan’s theater district. He got married during the pandemic, and the couple welcomed their first child in last June. “A lot of my mornings are dictated by how late I go to bed. With a schedule like this, we go to work hours after people clocked out of their offices. My body has to get used to it.
- 4/25/2023
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
Spoiler Alert: This story contains spoilers for the first season of “Up Here,” now streaming on Hulu.
The first time Mae Whitman sang in front of an audience on camera, it was just her, a guitar and her “Parenthood” family cheering her on from the front row. On the NBC drama, Whitman’s reckless young character Amber finally grew up by channeling her angst through music. For character and performer alike, it required overcoming the terror of standing in front of people and bearing a piece of her soul as she sang.
Back then, it helped having her costars staring back at her.
“It really felt like I was doing a performance in front of my family,” Whitman tells Variety. “I remember getting up on stage for the scene and seeing the whole cast sitting right up front taking pictures and crying. It was a really special way to have...
The first time Mae Whitman sang in front of an audience on camera, it was just her, a guitar and her “Parenthood” family cheering her on from the front row. On the NBC drama, Whitman’s reckless young character Amber finally grew up by channeling her angst through music. For character and performer alike, it required overcoming the terror of standing in front of people and bearing a piece of her soul as she sang.
Back then, it helped having her costars staring back at her.
“It really felt like I was doing a performance in front of my family,” Whitman tells Variety. “I remember getting up on stage for the scene and seeing the whole cast sitting right up front taking pictures and crying. It was a really special way to have...
- 3/24/2023
- by Hunter Ingram
- Variety Film + TV
"Crash" winning Best Picture over "Brokeback Mountain" is easily one of the biggest upsets in modern Oscar history. The Academy's decision was already highly contentious and has only aged like sour milk in the decades since. Ang Lee's tragic romance, on the other hand, remains a touchstone for positive queer representation in mainstream cinema. To dismiss it as the embodiment of the "Bury Your Gays" trope is to approach the film in a vacuum. At a time when homophobic humor intended to assuage the insecurities of straight audiences was commonplace in Hollywood, Lee and his "Brokeback" actors dared to take the story of two men falling in love seriously.
According to Deadline, the tale of cowboys Ennis Del Mar and Jack Twist is getting a new lease on life thanks to a London stage production based on Annie Proulx's original 1997 short story (not Lee's movie). Mike Faist and...
According to Deadline, the tale of cowboys Ennis Del Mar and Jack Twist is getting a new lease on life thanks to a London stage production based on Annie Proulx's original 1997 short story (not Lee's movie). Mike Faist and...
- 3/20/2023
- by Sandy Schaefer
- Slash Film
Apple TV+ is staying in the Julianne Moore business, and the streamer is adding even more major talent to join her. After teaming with indie studio A24 to release the neo-noir, film "Sharper" earlier this year (featuring Moore in the lead role), Apple is looking to expand their modest slate of original films with another highly-anticipated project.
Variety reports that Apple has cast Moore and rapidly rising star Sydney Sweeney (seen below in "Euphoria") in a new feature film project titled "Echo Valley." On the other side of the camera, the story comes from "Mare of Easttown" writer, producer, and creator Brad Ingelsby, and like the HBO Max series, it's set in Pennsylvania. The movie will follow Moore's character named Kate Garrett, described as "a woman reeling from a personal tragedy who spends her days boarding and training horses on the secluded and picturesque Echo Valley Farm." Sweeney will play...
Variety reports that Apple has cast Moore and rapidly rising star Sydney Sweeney (seen below in "Euphoria") in a new feature film project titled "Echo Valley." On the other side of the camera, the story comes from "Mare of Easttown" writer, producer, and creator Brad Ingelsby, and like the HBO Max series, it's set in Pennsylvania. The movie will follow Moore's character named Kate Garrett, described as "a woman reeling from a personal tragedy who spends her days boarding and training horses on the secluded and picturesque Echo Valley Farm." Sweeney will play...
- 3/8/2023
- by Jeremy Mathai
- Slash Film
Ambassador Theatre Group has announced an exclusive three-year partnership with the newly formed Bad Robot Live, the theatre division of J.J. Abrams’s Bad Robot Productions. As creative collaborators and co-producers, Atg will help bring to the stage Abrams’s “unique producorial vision.”
The joint development arrangement will provide Atg, a prominent player on both Broadway and London’s West End, with partnership opportunities on Bad Robot Live’s current and future theatre projects, and give Bad Robot Live the opportunity to collaborate on those projects with Atg Productions, one of the world’s leading producers of theatrical events including recent productions of Cabaret, Cyrano, Plaza Suite, David Byrne’s American Utopia, (and the previewing Broadway versions of A Doll’s House and Parade).
The first joint project under the new Atg and Bad Robot Live agreement is Liz Kingsman’s critically acclaimed solo show, One Woman Show, which recently enjoyed...
The joint development arrangement will provide Atg, a prominent player on both Broadway and London’s West End, with partnership opportunities on Bad Robot Live’s current and future theatre projects, and give Bad Robot Live the opportunity to collaborate on those projects with Atg Productions, one of the world’s leading producers of theatrical events including recent productions of Cabaret, Cyrano, Plaza Suite, David Byrne’s American Utopia, (and the previewing Broadway versions of A Doll’s House and Parade).
The first joint project under the new Atg and Bad Robot Live agreement is Liz Kingsman’s critically acclaimed solo show, One Woman Show, which recently enjoyed...
- 3/7/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Carrie Underwood sings live, performing at the Stagecoach Music Festival and along her Denim & Rhinestones tour. As a result, she’s quick to notice when another artist lowers the key for concerts, calling this cheat “so deflating.”
Carrie Underwood Embarked on her ‘Denim & Rhinestones’ tour Carrie Underwood sings with Guns N’ Roses lead singer Axl Rose, not pictured | Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images
In 2022, Underwood released the studio album Denim & Rhinestones, featuring songs co-written and co-produced by the “If I Didn’t Love You” vocalist. The collection included 12 tracks — “Ghost Story” and “Hate My Heart” among them.
The same year, Underwood embarked on her Denim & Rhinestones Tour, with performances continuing throughout 2023. There, the artist sings live, highlighting tracks off her album of the same title.
This wouldn’t be the first tour of the award-winning country artist, as she performed live at country music festivals, award ceremonies,...
Carrie Underwood Embarked on her ‘Denim & Rhinestones’ tour Carrie Underwood sings with Guns N’ Roses lead singer Axl Rose, not pictured | Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images
In 2022, Underwood released the studio album Denim & Rhinestones, featuring songs co-written and co-produced by the “If I Didn’t Love You” vocalist. The collection included 12 tracks — “Ghost Story” and “Hate My Heart” among them.
The same year, Underwood embarked on her Denim & Rhinestones Tour, with performances continuing throughout 2023. There, the artist sings live, highlighting tracks off her album of the same title.
This wouldn’t be the first tour of the award-winning country artist, as she performed live at country music festivals, award ceremonies,...
- 2/27/2023
- by Julia Dzurillay
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Netflix’s February rotation has much more to offer than just romance movies, though if you’re looking to extend the Valentine’s Day mood, several options like the Reese Witherspoon rom-com “Your Place Or Mine” from “The Devil Wears Prada” scribe Aline Brosh McKenna will warm your heart. “La La Land” could also satisfy the longing for a love story, but self-love is the most important, and “Eat, Pray, Love” can help you with that.
For those not feeling the love, “Lyle Lyle, Crocodile” promises fun for the whole family with the help of music from “La La Land” composers Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. Shawn Mendes, who voices a CGI crocodile who only expresses himself through song, also contributed an original song to the film.
Here are the best seven new movies to stream on Netflix in February 2023.
“Your Place Or Mine” Wesley Kimmel and Reese Witherspoon in...
For those not feeling the love, “Lyle Lyle, Crocodile” promises fun for the whole family with the help of music from “La La Land” composers Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. Shawn Mendes, who voices a CGI crocodile who only expresses himself through song, also contributed an original song to the film.
Here are the best seven new movies to stream on Netflix in February 2023.
“Your Place Or Mine” Wesley Kimmel and Reese Witherspoon in...
- 2/19/2023
- by Dessi Gomez
- The Wrap
"La La Land" is bringing another day of sun from Los Angeles to New York. A musical based on the Oscar-winning movie starring Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling is currently in development, according to a Feb. 7 report from Deadline.
"I'm thrilled to reunite with Lionsgate and the incredible team behind 'La La Land' to adapt the movie for the Broadway stage, the next exciting chapter in its evolution," said Marc Platt, who produced the original movie and will also produce the stage musical, per the outlet. "We've assembled a world-class team to create a musical that will delight 'La La Land''s millions of current fans and introduce the property to a whole new audience." Previously, Platt produced the Broadway musical "Dear Evan Hansen," which his son Ben Platt starred in. A rep for Marc did not immediately respond to Popsugar's request for comment.
The show will...
"I'm thrilled to reunite with Lionsgate and the incredible team behind 'La La Land' to adapt the movie for the Broadway stage, the next exciting chapter in its evolution," said Marc Platt, who produced the original movie and will also produce the stage musical, per the outlet. "We've assembled a world-class team to create a musical that will delight 'La La Land''s millions of current fans and introduce the property to a whole new audience." Previously, Platt produced the Broadway musical "Dear Evan Hansen," which his son Ben Platt starred in. A rep for Marc did not immediately respond to Popsugar's request for comment.
The show will...
- 2/7/2023
- by Eden Arielle Gordon
- Popsugar.com
There are plenty of movies about making movies, both literally and figuratively, but you won't find nearly as many films about the art of theater. With so much drama surrounding, well, the drama of theater, it's a setting that is ripe for comedy, and the new Sundance-selected film "Theater Camp" takes advantage of that and delivers sidesplitting laughs in droves with a wonderful assembly of talent both in front of and behind the camera.
As the title suggests, "Theater Camp" follows the mentors and aspiring young actors who come together every summer in the Adirondack mountains for the uplifting and beloved theater camp known as AdirondACTS. Even more beloved is Joan (Amy Sedaris), the founder of the camp, but when the strobe lights of a local stage production send Joan into a seizure followed by a coma, AdirondACTS suddenly finds itself in the hands of crypto-bro Troy (Jimmy Tatro of...
As the title suggests, "Theater Camp" follows the mentors and aspiring young actors who come together every summer in the Adirondack mountains for the uplifting and beloved theater camp known as AdirondACTS. Even more beloved is Joan (Amy Sedaris), the founder of the camp, but when the strobe lights of a local stage production send Joan into a seizure followed by a coma, AdirondACTS suddenly finds itself in the hands of crypto-bro Troy (Jimmy Tatro of...
- 1/29/2023
- by Ethan Anderton
- Slash Film
Since “The Drew Barrymore Show” premiered in 2020, the talk show hosted by the beloved star of “Santa Clarita Diet” and “E.T.” has attracted headlines for dozens of bizarre, often borderline absurdist segments — such as the time Barrymore interviewed the cast of “Dear Evan Hansen” while (somewhat inexplicably) in character as Josie Geller, the lead of her 1999 romantic comedy “Never Been Kissed.” Now, that interview has received an unofficial followup with Wednesday’s show, where Barrymore invited Allison Williams into the studio by dressing as the main character from the “Girls” star’s most recent film, the horror hit “M3gan.”
In “M3gan,” Williams plays a roboticist and toy inventor who develops a lifelike robot doll to take care of her orphaned niece, only for her creation to go off her intended programming with tragic consequences. For the recent Oscar nominee announcer’s guest spot on the show Barrymore surprises the actor...
In “M3gan,” Williams plays a roboticist and toy inventor who develops a lifelike robot doll to take care of her orphaned niece, only for her creation to go off her intended programming with tragic consequences. For the recent Oscar nominee announcer’s guest spot on the show Barrymore surprises the actor...
- 1/25/2023
- by Wilson Chapman
- Indiewire
Exclusive: Pamela Fisher, a leading talent agent in the youth development space, has left A3 where she was a partner and served as VP as well as acting as head of the Youth and Emerging Talent Division. She is segueing to management, joining Lbi Entertainment.
At the management company, Fisher will oversee the development of rising talent. She will be bringing with her a roster of select artists across film, TV and music whom she will rep in her new role as a manager. That includes her longtime clients Dove Cameron and Jordan Fisher, whom she had shared with Lbi for years.
Fisher has represented Cameron, a Daytime Emmy Award winner with over 48.2 million social media followers, since she was 14, helping to land her the hit Disney Channel Descendants franchise. Cameron was recently named Best New Artist at the VMAs and AMAs. Pamela Fisher has also represented Jordan Fisher since...
At the management company, Fisher will oversee the development of rising talent. She will be bringing with her a roster of select artists across film, TV and music whom she will rep in her new role as a manager. That includes her longtime clients Dove Cameron and Jordan Fisher, whom she had shared with Lbi for years.
Fisher has represented Cameron, a Daytime Emmy Award winner with over 48.2 million social media followers, since she was 14, helping to land her the hit Disney Channel Descendants franchise. Cameron was recently named Best New Artist at the VMAs and AMAs. Pamela Fisher has also represented Jordan Fisher since...
- 1/17/2023
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Have you watched "Knives Out" and "Glass Onion" and found yourself in desperate need of more tales of murder from writer/director Rian Johnson? Or perhaps you've binge-watched both seasons of "Russian Doll" and are ready for another show where Natasha Lyonne attempts to solve a mystery with a lackadaisical attitude and some sharp wit. Or maybe you just want to see Adrien Brody, Stephanie Hsu, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Ron Perlman, Benjamin Bratt, Chloë Sevigny, Lil Rel Howery, Clea Duvall, Tim Blake Nelson, and a whole clown car of other acclaimed actors all in one place.
If any of the above apply, then "Poker Face" might be the show for you. Created, written, and directed by Johnson, the 10-episode case-of-the-week murder mystery series stars Lyonne as Charlie Cale, a casino hostess turned detective with an uncanny ability to know whether or not someone is telling the truth. While that might sound...
If any of the above apply, then "Poker Face" might be the show for you. Created, written, and directed by Johnson, the 10-episode case-of-the-week murder mystery series stars Lyonne as Charlie Cale, a casino hostess turned detective with an uncanny ability to know whether or not someone is telling the truth. While that might sound...
- 1/15/2023
- by Hannah Shaw-Williams
- Slash Film
Maude Apatow will make her New York stage debut as Audrey in the Off-Broadway revival of “Little Shop of Horrors.” She will appear in the musical from Feb. 7 through April 2, 2023. Apatow joins a cast stacked with theater vets that includes Tony Award winner Matt Doyle (“Company”) as Seymour, Tony Award nominee Bryce Pinkham (“A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder“) as Dr. Orin Scrivello, D.D.S., and Tony Award nominee Brad Oscar (“Something Rotten!”) as Mushnik. D’Kaylah Unique Whitley (“Dear Evan Hansen”) also joins the cast this month as Ronnette.
Apatow currently appears on HBO’s “Euphoria.” Her film and television credits include Netflix’s “Hollywood,” “Other People,” “Assassination Nation” and “The King of Staten Island.”
“I have long admired the emotional intelligence and vulnerability Maude has displayed on television and in film. She’s a natural fit for Audrey,” says the production’s Tony-winning director Michael Mayer.
Apatow currently appears on HBO’s “Euphoria.” Her film and television credits include Netflix’s “Hollywood,” “Other People,” “Assassination Nation” and “The King of Staten Island.”
“I have long admired the emotional intelligence and vulnerability Maude has displayed on television and in film. She’s a natural fit for Audrey,” says the production’s Tony-winning director Michael Mayer.
- 1/13/2023
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
At the last Grammys, the presumed front-runner for Best Musical Theater Album didn’t end up winning. “Les Misérables: The Staged Concert” was out front to win according to Gold Derby’s racetrack odds, but lost in a big upset to “The Unofficial Bridgerton Musical.” So what could that mean for this year’s race?
SEECher just ahead of Cyndi Lauper, Mariah Carey as your choice for 2023 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame [Poll Results]
According to our current combined predictions, the reigning Tony winner for Best Musical, “A Strange Loop,” is expected to win with 11/2 odds. Thirteen of the American Theatre Wing’s previous champions in that category throughout the 21st century also won here. Among them are “The Producers,” “Hairspray,” “Monty Python’s Spamalot,” “Jersey Boys,” “Spring Awakening,” “In the Heights,” “The Book of Mormon,” “Once,” “Kinky Boots,” “Hamilton,” “Dear Evan Hansen,” “The Band’s Visit,” and “Hadestown.”
On paper,...
SEECher just ahead of Cyndi Lauper, Mariah Carey as your choice for 2023 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame [Poll Results]
According to our current combined predictions, the reigning Tony winner for Best Musical, “A Strange Loop,” is expected to win with 11/2 odds. Thirteen of the American Theatre Wing’s previous champions in that category throughout the 21st century also won here. Among them are “The Producers,” “Hairspray,” “Monty Python’s Spamalot,” “Jersey Boys,” “Spring Awakening,” “In the Heights,” “The Book of Mormon,” “Once,” “Kinky Boots,” “Hamilton,” “Dear Evan Hansen,” “The Band’s Visit,” and “Hadestown.”
On paper,...
- 1/12/2023
- by Jeffrey Kare
- Gold Derby
Update, with song recordings Broadway’s upcoming Kander & Ebb musical New York, New York has found its stars: Colton Ryan (Girl From The North Country) and Anna Uzele (Six).
Producers Sonia Friedman and Tom Kirdahy announced the castings today. Performances begin Friday, March 24, at the St. James Theatre, with an official opening on Wednesday, April 26.
Ryan, who also has appeared in Hulu’s The Girl From Plainville, will play Jimmy Doyle, and Uzele (Apple TV+’s upcoming Dear Edward)will portray Francine Evans. Robert De Niro and Liza Minnelli played the characters in the 1977 Martin Scorsese film, written by Earl M. Rauch, that inspired the stage musical.
The musical, with music by John Kander & Fred Ebb and additional lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, is set in 1946 when post-war New York is beginning to rebuild. The synopsis: Francine Evans, a young singer just off the bus from Philadelphia encounters New York native Jimmy Doyle,...
Producers Sonia Friedman and Tom Kirdahy announced the castings today. Performances begin Friday, March 24, at the St. James Theatre, with an official opening on Wednesday, April 26.
Ryan, who also has appeared in Hulu’s The Girl From Plainville, will play Jimmy Doyle, and Uzele (Apple TV+’s upcoming Dear Edward)will portray Francine Evans. Robert De Niro and Liza Minnelli played the characters in the 1977 Martin Scorsese film, written by Earl M. Rauch, that inspired the stage musical.
The musical, with music by John Kander & Fred Ebb and additional lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, is set in 1946 when post-war New York is beginning to rebuild. The synopsis: Francine Evans, a young singer just off the bus from Philadelphia encounters New York native Jimmy Doyle,...
- 1/12/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
GLAAD isn’t satisfied with the state of LGBTQ representation in film. The advocacy organization found that no major film studio had “sufficient” LGBTQ representation in its film slate last year, according to a new report.
Released December 15, the 2022 GLAAD “Studio Responsibility Report” looks at the theatrically released films produced by major studios in 2021 to determine whether each studio is up to par in terms of onscreen representation. Since the report only looks at the movies released last year, major releases like “Bros” or Disney’s “Strange World” aren’t counted in the tally.
According to GLAAD, of the 77 films released theatrically in 2021, 16 (20.8 percent) featured characters who were explicitly LGBTQ. This represents an increase from the 10 out of 44 that featured LGBT characters in 2020 and a decrease of 1.9 percent from the 22.7 percent figure from 2020. Nineteen of the 28 queer characters from said films were male, nine were women, and none were non-binary.
Released December 15, the 2022 GLAAD “Studio Responsibility Report” looks at the theatrically released films produced by major studios in 2021 to determine whether each studio is up to par in terms of onscreen representation. Since the report only looks at the movies released last year, major releases like “Bros” or Disney’s “Strange World” aren’t counted in the tally.
According to GLAAD, of the 77 films released theatrically in 2021, 16 (20.8 percent) featured characters who were explicitly LGBTQ. This represents an increase from the 10 out of 44 that featured LGBT characters in 2020 and a decrease of 1.9 percent from the 22.7 percent figure from 2020. Nineteen of the 28 queer characters from said films were male, nine were women, and none were non-binary.
- 12/15/2022
- by Wilson Chapman
- Indiewire
GLAAD’s 10th Annual Studio Responsibility Index, which was released on Thursday, found that the percentage of LGBTQ-inclusive films dipped in 2021, as did racial diversity and screen time for queer characters. And two major studios, Lionsgate and Paramount, both received a failing grace for not having a single gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or queer character in their 2021 films.
The organization also handed out “insufficient” or “poor” grades to the five other major studios — Sony Pictures, United Artists Releasing, Universal Pictures, The Walt Disney Studios and Warner Bros. — for their lack of onscreen representation.
Only nine films passed GLAAD’s Vito Russo test, named for the late “Celluloid Closet” author: LGBTQ characters must be identifiable as such, must not be solely or predominantly defined by their sexual orientation or gender identity, must matter to the plot of the film, and must not be a stereotype. In films with multiple LGBTQ characters,...
The organization also handed out “insufficient” or “poor” grades to the five other major studios — Sony Pictures, United Artists Releasing, Universal Pictures, The Walt Disney Studios and Warner Bros. — for their lack of onscreen representation.
Only nine films passed GLAAD’s Vito Russo test, named for the late “Celluloid Closet” author: LGBTQ characters must be identifiable as such, must not be solely or predominantly defined by their sexual orientation or gender identity, must matter to the plot of the film, and must not be a stereotype. In films with multiple LGBTQ characters,...
- 12/15/2022
- by Sharon Knolle
- The Wrap
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.