Established in 1977 with Episode IV – A New Hope, the Star Wars saga has gained a tremendous edge in the industry to be regarded as one of the greatest franchises in cinematic history. If anything, it has immaculately succeeded in creating the atomic age of cinema and winning the hearts of millions of fans worldwide with its brilliant masterpiece of a storyline.
The Star Wars lore. | Credit: StarWars.com.
However, many don’t know that this absolutely breathtaking universe from a figment of George Lucas’ imagination actually would have never made its way to the public had one other project of the mastermind gotten the greenlight: A movie adaptation of the comic strip Flash Gordon. Thankfully, Lucas faced rejection from that and ended up giving birth to a saga that created history.
Star Wars Came About Because George Lucas’ Flash Gordon Film Fell Apart
People say when one door closes, another...
The Star Wars lore. | Credit: StarWars.com.
However, many don’t know that this absolutely breathtaking universe from a figment of George Lucas’ imagination actually would have never made its way to the public had one other project of the mastermind gotten the greenlight: A movie adaptation of the comic strip Flash Gordon. Thankfully, Lucas faced rejection from that and ended up giving birth to a saga that created history.
Star Wars Came About Because George Lucas’ Flash Gordon Film Fell Apart
People say when one door closes, another...
- 5/26/2024
- by Mahin Sultan
- FandomWire
Confession time: despite being a serious film buff, and preaching the gospel of physical media, I only recently upgraded to a 4K Blu-ray player. While I’ve been watching 4K for years on my Apple TV, I also upgraded my 4K TV to one with Dolby Vision built-in, and some of the results I’ve been seeing on restorations of my favourite movies have been blowing my mind. For those of you who maybe haven’t taken the plunge, here’s a list of five that have really knocked my socks off:
The Crow (1994)
Our man Tyler Nichols was so impressed with the transfer on the recent 4K disc that he devoted an entire column to it last week. For me, this was one of the first movies I opted to pick up, as it’s never really looked all that great on DVD or Blu-ray. I’ve been lucky...
The Crow (1994)
Our man Tyler Nichols was so impressed with the transfer on the recent 4K disc that he devoted an entire column to it last week. For me, this was one of the first movies I opted to pick up, as it’s never really looked all that great on DVD or Blu-ray. I’ve been lucky...
- 5/22/2024
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
Following up on their excellent Blood Money box set from last year, the folks at Arrow Video now offer the four-film collection Savage Guns, another deep dive into the vaults of the Italian western. With each of these releases, Arrow gives viewers the opportunity to form a richer and broader notion of the genre, to examine the way these films work the warp and weft of similarity and difference, providing audiences with expected payoffs of sex and violence while also playing variations (subtle or otherwise) on familiar generic themes.
Featuring sparkling new restorations based on original film elements, Savage Guns comes in another lavishly appointed package from Arrow Video, complete with hours of bonus materials, like cast and crew interviews, commentary tracks, introductions to each of the films by critic Fabio Melelli, and appreciations of two of the film scores by audiophile Lovely Jon. Also included in the slipcase are...
Featuring sparkling new restorations based on original film elements, Savage Guns comes in another lavishly appointed package from Arrow Video, complete with hours of bonus materials, like cast and crew interviews, commentary tracks, introductions to each of the films by critic Fabio Melelli, and appreciations of two of the film scores by audiophile Lovely Jon. Also included in the slipcase are...
- 1/22/2024
- by Budd Wilkins
- Slant Magazine
Nineteen sixty-eight has to be considered the apex of psychedelic sexploitation romps, with the release of Candy, adapted from Mason Hoffenberg and Terry Southern’s satirical reworking of Voltaire’s Candide, and Roger Vadim’s Barbarella, based on Jean-Claude Forest’s comic, and partially scripted by Southern (alongside an armada of other credited writers). Both employ a rambling, shaggy-dog structure as an excuse to flagrantly foreground softcore sexual hijinks tinged with a pungent whiff of social commentary, albeit the latter aspect may be easier to discern in Candy’s perverse daisy chain of events.
Southern’s contributions to the Dino De Laurentiis-produced Barbarella can be detected in some of its wittier lines (“A good many dramatic situations begin with screaming!”) and sly pokes at the persistence of class-consciousness. Aside from Southern, the two films are linked by the presence of Anita Pallenberg, style icon and muse of the Rolling...
Southern’s contributions to the Dino De Laurentiis-produced Barbarella can be detected in some of its wittier lines (“A good many dramatic situations begin with screaming!”) and sly pokes at the persistence of class-consciousness. Aside from Southern, the two films are linked by the presence of Anita Pallenberg, style icon and muse of the Rolling...
- 11/21/2023
- by Budd Wilkins
- Slant Magazine
First Look, the works-in-progress strand of the Locarno film festival’s industry section, has revealed the six titles selected for its 2023 edition.
This year First Look will highlight independent projects from the UK. The festival has described each project as a work in progress “at the cusp of completion.” The selected works-in-progress, none of which currently have sales representation, will be presented to accredited industry professionals at the Cinema Rialto during the Locarno Film Festival.
Among the titles is All At Sea by the late filmmaker Mike Hodges. Produced by Solon Papadopoulos at Hurricane Films and directed, written, and narrated by Hodges, the pic explores Hodges’ story from his start in the Navy in the 1950s, to his work for Granada in the 1960s, through to his meteoric success with hits such as Get Carter and Flash Gordon in the 1970s onwards. Reflecting from his quiet Dorset home,...
This year First Look will highlight independent projects from the UK. The festival has described each project as a work in progress “at the cusp of completion.” The selected works-in-progress, none of which currently have sales representation, will be presented to accredited industry professionals at the Cinema Rialto during the Locarno Film Festival.
Among the titles is All At Sea by the late filmmaker Mike Hodges. Produced by Solon Papadopoulos at Hurricane Films and directed, written, and narrated by Hodges, the pic explores Hodges’ story from his start in the Navy in the 1950s, to his work for Granada in the 1960s, through to his meteoric success with hits such as Get Carter and Flash Gordon in the 1970s onwards. Reflecting from his quiet Dorset home,...
- 7/26/2023
- by Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
Six U.K. works-in-progress have been selected for the 12th edition of Locarno’s First Look, an international launchpad for films in post-production taking place during Locarno Pro Days.
Since its introduction in 2012, First Look has already focused on Colombia, Mexico, Chile, Brazil, Israel, Poland, the Baltic Countries, Portugal, Serbia, Switzerland and Germany
This year, the late Mike Hodges – known for “Get Carter” or “Flash Gordon” – will be celebrated in “All at Sea,” produced by Hurricane Films, a semi-autobiographical documentary depicting his life. The film was directed, written and narrated by Hodges himself.
“We have been working with Mike on this feature documentary over the past three, four years. We lost him in December, but luckily, we have a director’s cut and an even more pressing need to make sure his final film sees the light of the big screen,” says Solon Papadopoulos.
“Mike was a humble visionary and a delight to work with.
Since its introduction in 2012, First Look has already focused on Colombia, Mexico, Chile, Brazil, Israel, Poland, the Baltic Countries, Portugal, Serbia, Switzerland and Germany
This year, the late Mike Hodges – known for “Get Carter” or “Flash Gordon” – will be celebrated in “All at Sea,” produced by Hurricane Films, a semi-autobiographical documentary depicting his life. The film was directed, written and narrated by Hodges himself.
“We have been working with Mike on this feature documentary over the past three, four years. We lost him in December, but luckily, we have a director’s cut and an even more pressing need to make sure his final film sees the light of the big screen,” says Solon Papadopoulos.
“Mike was a humble visionary and a delight to work with.
- 7/26/2023
- by Marta Balaga
- Variety Film + TV
Late director’s semi-autobiographical doc will be showcased alongside five other UK films.
All At Sea, a semi-autobiographical documentary by the late and acclaimed director and scriptwriter Mike Hodges, is one of six UK films selected for Locarno Pro’s works in progress strand First Look.
Thriller 7 Keys, the feature debut of Joy Wilkinson, a 2015 Screen Star of Tomorrow, will also be showcased in First Look.
Scroll down for full list of titles
Taking place at the Locarno Film Festival between August 4- 6, the 12th edition of Locarno Pro’s First Look is presenting works-in-progress from the UK through a...
All At Sea, a semi-autobiographical documentary by the late and acclaimed director and scriptwriter Mike Hodges, is one of six UK films selected for Locarno Pro’s works in progress strand First Look.
Thriller 7 Keys, the feature debut of Joy Wilkinson, a 2015 Screen Star of Tomorrow, will also be showcased in First Look.
Scroll down for full list of titles
Taking place at the Locarno Film Festival between August 4- 6, the 12th edition of Locarno Pro’s First Look is presenting works-in-progress from the UK through a...
- 7/26/2023
- by Tim Dams
- ScreenDaily
When Robert Aldrich’s 1968 Hollywood insider yarn, “The Legend of Lylah Clare” screens at the Maine International Film Festival in Waterville, Maine, it will represent much more than a simple revival of a New Hollywood-era roman à clef.
The film’s presentation on July 12 will include a discussion between actor Michael Murphy, who co-stars in the film, and former MGM publicity director Mike Kaplan, who has from the film’s earliest screenings defended both the film’s director, who Kaplan feels was “grossly maligned” by the depiction of him in Ryan Murphy’s limited series “Feud,” and the film, which monumentally tanked both critically and commercially when first released.
Kaplan recalls “I loved the script, and I loved the film. MGM had an unexceptional slate at the time. I was a big fan at the get-go.”
But as MGM’s New York City-based publicity chief, Kaplan watched helplessly as others,...
The film’s presentation on July 12 will include a discussion between actor Michael Murphy, who co-stars in the film, and former MGM publicity director Mike Kaplan, who has from the film’s earliest screenings defended both the film’s director, who Kaplan feels was “grossly maligned” by the depiction of him in Ryan Murphy’s limited series “Feud,” and the film, which monumentally tanked both critically and commercially when first released.
Kaplan recalls “I loved the script, and I loved the film. MGM had an unexceptional slate at the time. I was a big fan at the get-go.”
But as MGM’s New York City-based publicity chief, Kaplan watched helplessly as others,...
- 7/12/2023
- by Steven Gaydos
- Variety Film + TV
Samuel Jackson and John Travolta are hit men with a penchant for philosophical conversations in Quentin Tarantino’s “Pulp Fiction,” coming to Plex on April 1. The multilayered crime movie, also starring Uma Thurman as a gangster’s wild wife and Bruce Willis as a down-on-his-luck boxer, is a darkly humorous, ultra-violent, and redemptive classic. The film netted Tarantino an Oscar for best original screenplay.
Watch the trailer for “Pulp Fiction”:
Clive Owen’s career was launched in the British neo-noir “Croupier,” directed by Mike Hodges. Owen plays Jack, a brooding writer who begins working as a croupier in a casino and gets drawn into a dangerous plan to rob it. Co-starring Gina McKee, it also arrives the first of next month.
Watch Now $0+ / month plex.tv Coming in April: 3 Generations Alex Rider: Stormbreaker American Honey (starts 4/27) The Cookout Croupier Crypto Diggers Domino: Battle of The Bones Don Jon...
Watch the trailer for “Pulp Fiction”:
Clive Owen’s career was launched in the British neo-noir “Croupier,” directed by Mike Hodges. Owen plays Jack, a brooding writer who begins working as a croupier in a casino and gets drawn into a dangerous plan to rob it. Co-starring Gina McKee, it also arrives the first of next month.
Watch Now $0+ / month plex.tv Coming in April: 3 Generations Alex Rider: Stormbreaker American Honey (starts 4/27) The Cookout Croupier Crypto Diggers Domino: Battle of The Bones Don Jon...
- 3/27/2023
- by Fern Siegel
- The Streamable
Every year the Oscar’s hold an in memoriam segment honoring stars and Hollywood professionals who lost their lives over the past year, and every time, there’s controversy after the segment seems to leave notable faces out. “White Lotus” star Michael Imperioli is adding to the criticism that this year’s in memoriam received, by blasting the omission of his prior co-stars Tony Sirico, Paul Sorvino, and Tom Sizemore.
“Sorvino, Sirico and Sizemore,” Imperioli wrote in an Instagram post on Monday, featuring headshots of all three actors. “These three brilliant actors were forgotten by the Academy last night at the Oscars. I was proud and honored to have worked with all three of these men and it saddened me to see Hollywood ignore them on its biggest night.”
Imperioli and Sirico famously worked together on all six seasons of the beloved HBO mobster drama “The Sopranos;” Imperioli played Christopher Moltisanti,...
“Sorvino, Sirico and Sizemore,” Imperioli wrote in an Instagram post on Monday, featuring headshots of all three actors. “These three brilliant actors were forgotten by the Academy last night at the Oscars. I was proud and honored to have worked with all three of these men and it saddened me to see Hollywood ignore them on its biggest night.”
Imperioli and Sirico famously worked together on all six seasons of the beloved HBO mobster drama “The Sopranos;” Imperioli played Christopher Moltisanti,...
- 3/13/2023
- by Wilson Chapman
- Indiewire
Mira Sorvino is calling out the Academy Awards for not including her father Paul Sorvino during the In Memoriam tribute.
Sorvino took to social media to share her “hurt” over Paul being “overlooked” at the 2023 ceremony. Sorvino tweeted, “It is baffling beyond belief that my beloved father and many other amazing brilliant departed actors were left out. The Oscars forgot about Paul Sorvino, but the rest of us never will!!”
The Oscar winner also shared on Instagram, writing, “I love you Dad. I miss you so much. Ps, when I posted this I had not learned of my Dad’s omission and that of several other incredible artists from the in Memoriam section. Incredibly hurt and shocked that my father’s lifelong, irreplaceable, enormous contribution to the world of cinema was overlooked by whomever made that list. We, his adoring family, and you, his adoring public, know just how unique and incredible he was.
Sorvino took to social media to share her “hurt” over Paul being “overlooked” at the 2023 ceremony. Sorvino tweeted, “It is baffling beyond belief that my beloved father and many other amazing brilliant departed actors were left out. The Oscars forgot about Paul Sorvino, but the rest of us never will!!”
The Oscar winner also shared on Instagram, writing, “I love you Dad. I miss you so much. Ps, when I posted this I had not learned of my Dad’s omission and that of several other incredible artists from the in Memoriam section. Incredibly hurt and shocked that my father’s lifelong, irreplaceable, enormous contribution to the world of cinema was overlooked by whomever made that list. We, his adoring family, and you, his adoring public, know just how unique and incredible he was.
- 3/13/2023
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Every year it’s a depressing ritual: Who is the Academy going to fail to recognize in their annual In Memoriam segment? Once again, during the live ceremony, more stars who passed away in the last year were left out.
Anne Heche, Paul Sorvino, Tom Sizemore, Leslie Jordan, and “Triangle of Sadness” star Charlbi Dean were not included in the tribute. “Walking and Talking” star Heche died in August 2022 after a car crash; she was in a coma before being taken off of life support.
Sizemore similarly died in March 2023 after being taken off of life support following a ruptured brain aneurysm. Jordan died after suffering a medical emergency behind the wheel and crashed his car in October 2022.
“Triangle of Sadness” actress Charlbi Dean passed away in August 2022 of a lung infection at age 32.
Palme d’Or winning director Ruben Östlund shared a tribute to Dean, writing, “Charlbi’s sudden...
Anne Heche, Paul Sorvino, Tom Sizemore, Leslie Jordan, and “Triangle of Sadness” star Charlbi Dean were not included in the tribute. “Walking and Talking” star Heche died in August 2022 after a car crash; she was in a coma before being taken off of life support.
Sizemore similarly died in March 2023 after being taken off of life support following a ruptured brain aneurysm. Jordan died after suffering a medical emergency behind the wheel and crashed his car in October 2022.
“Triangle of Sadness” actress Charlbi Dean passed away in August 2022 of a lung infection at age 32.
Palme d’Or winning director Ruben Östlund shared a tribute to Dean, writing, “Charlbi’s sudden...
- 3/13/2023
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Chaim Topol, who became professionally known solely by his last name in a career that included starring in “Fiddler on the Roof” on stage and screen and co-starring in the James Bond movie “For Your Eyes Only” and the sci-fi film “Flash Gordon,” died Thursday in Tel Aviv after a battle with Alzheimer’s disease. He was 87 years old.
Topol’s death was confirmed by Israel’s president Isaac Herzog, who described him as a “gifted actor who conquered many stages in Israel and overseas, filled the cinema screens with his presence and especially entered deep into our hearts.”
Topol began his long association with the starring role of Tevye the milkman in the musical “Fiddler on the Roof” in 1967, appearing in the West End production, which ran for 2,030 performances. He starred in Norman Jewison’s 1971 film version, which carried a budget estimated at $9 million and garnered a domestic gross of $80 million.
Topol’s death was confirmed by Israel’s president Isaac Herzog, who described him as a “gifted actor who conquered many stages in Israel and overseas, filled the cinema screens with his presence and especially entered deep into our hearts.”
Topol began his long association with the starring role of Tevye the milkman in the musical “Fiddler on the Roof” in 1967, appearing in the West End production, which ran for 2,030 performances. He starred in Norman Jewison’s 1971 film version, which carried a budget estimated at $9 million and garnered a domestic gross of $80 million.
- 3/9/2023
- by Carmel Dagan
- Variety Film + TV
Alcon Sleeping Giant (a joint venture between Alcon Entertainment and Sleeping Giant Media) and Surfer Jack Studios has announced the creation of Surfing Giant Studios and Surfing Giant Studios Europe.
Surfing Giant Studios, founded by “Phineas and Ferb” producer Jeff “Swampy” Marsh, Grammy nominated music writer and producer Michael Hodges and Alcon Chief Operating Officer Scott Parish, will serve as full-service production and animation studio based in Santa Monica.
The studios will also have a Europe-based studio in Altrincham, U.K.
In a statement, Parish said, “When Asg’s music-driven company partnered with Swampy’s Surfer Jack on ‘Pete the Cat’ it became obvious the combined talent and services of these companies offered a unique opportunity to create a full-service animation company, including the ability to bring highly visible music stars in as collaborators and create original songs that enhance the content.”
Hodges added, “I am deeply excited about this endeavor.
Surfing Giant Studios, founded by “Phineas and Ferb” producer Jeff “Swampy” Marsh, Grammy nominated music writer and producer Michael Hodges and Alcon Chief Operating Officer Scott Parish, will serve as full-service production and animation studio based in Santa Monica.
The studios will also have a Europe-based studio in Altrincham, U.K.
In a statement, Parish said, “When Asg’s music-driven company partnered with Swampy’s Surfer Jack on ‘Pete the Cat’ it became obvious the combined talent and services of these companies offered a unique opportunity to create a full-service animation company, including the ability to bring highly visible music stars in as collaborators and create original songs that enhance the content.”
Hodges added, “I am deeply excited about this endeavor.
- 2/14/2023
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
Writer/Director Joe Cornish discusses a few of his favorite movies with Josh Olson and Joe Dante.
Show Notes: Movies Referenced In This Episode
Attack The Block (2011)
Rocks (2019)
Poltergeist (1982)
Gremlins (1984)
Avanti! (1972)
Picnic At Hanging Rock (1975)
The Last Wave (1977)
Witness (1985)
Dead Poets Society (1989)
Fearless (1993)
Master And Commander: The Far Side Of The World (2003)
Gallipoli (1981)
The Year Of Living Dangerously (1982)
The Cars That Ate Paris (1974)
The Adventures Of Buckaroo Banzai (1984)
Remo Williams: The Adventure Begins (1985)
The Man Who Would Be King (1975)
Kingsman: The Secret Service (2014)
The Rescuers (1977)
Bedknobs And Broomsticks (1971)
The Rescuers Down Under (1990)
The Spy Who Loved Me (1977)
Moonraker (1979)
The Adventures Of Tintin (2011)
Bambi (1942)
Dumbo (1941)
Close Encounters Of The Third Kind (1977)
Forbidden Planet (1956)
This Island Earth (1955)
Earth Vs. The Flying Saucers (1956)
The Thing From Another World (1951)
Matinee (1993)
The Lord Of The Rings (1978)
The Omen (1976)
Damien: Omen II (1978)
Omen III: The Final Conflict (1981)
Battleship Potemkin (1925)
The Exorcist (1973)
The Exterminator (1980)
Friday The 13th...
Show Notes: Movies Referenced In This Episode
Attack The Block (2011)
Rocks (2019)
Poltergeist (1982)
Gremlins (1984)
Avanti! (1972)
Picnic At Hanging Rock (1975)
The Last Wave (1977)
Witness (1985)
Dead Poets Society (1989)
Fearless (1993)
Master And Commander: The Far Side Of The World (2003)
Gallipoli (1981)
The Year Of Living Dangerously (1982)
The Cars That Ate Paris (1974)
The Adventures Of Buckaroo Banzai (1984)
Remo Williams: The Adventure Begins (1985)
The Man Who Would Be King (1975)
Kingsman: The Secret Service (2014)
The Rescuers (1977)
Bedknobs And Broomsticks (1971)
The Rescuers Down Under (1990)
The Spy Who Loved Me (1977)
Moonraker (1979)
The Adventures Of Tintin (2011)
Bambi (1942)
Dumbo (1941)
Close Encounters Of The Third Kind (1977)
Forbidden Planet (1956)
This Island Earth (1955)
Earth Vs. The Flying Saucers (1956)
The Thing From Another World (1951)
Matinee (1993)
The Lord Of The Rings (1978)
The Omen (1976)
Damien: Omen II (1978)
Omen III: The Final Conflict (1981)
Battleship Potemkin (1925)
The Exorcist (1973)
The Exterminator (1980)
Friday The 13th...
- 1/24/2023
- by Kris Millsap
- Trailers from Hell
Bill Pence, a co-founder of the Telluride Film Festival, passed away on Dec. 6 after a long illness at the age of 82, the Telluride Daily Planet reported on Wednesday.
In 1974, Pence co-founded the fest, along with his wife Stella Pence, film preservationist James Card, and producer Tom Luddy. He was also the co-director and president of the National Film Preserve, which runs the annual festival, which is held in the Colorado town over Labor Day weekend.
He and Stella also founded the Santa Fe Film Festival in New Mexico in 1980 and ran it for three years.
Also Read:
Mike Hodges, ‘Croupier’ and ‘Get Carter’ Director, Dies at 90
“Bill’s fire burned so very brightly and touched so many. Those who worked for him did it as much to not disappoint him as to carry on his vision,” wrote Jim Bedford in the Telluride Daily Planet.
“Bill Pence is an almost mythical...
In 1974, Pence co-founded the fest, along with his wife Stella Pence, film preservationist James Card, and producer Tom Luddy. He was also the co-director and president of the National Film Preserve, which runs the annual festival, which is held in the Colorado town over Labor Day weekend.
He and Stella also founded the Santa Fe Film Festival in New Mexico in 1980 and ran it for three years.
Also Read:
Mike Hodges, ‘Croupier’ and ‘Get Carter’ Director, Dies at 90
“Bill’s fire burned so very brightly and touched so many. Those who worked for him did it as much to not disappoint him as to carry on his vision,” wrote Jim Bedford in the Telluride Daily Planet.
“Bill Pence is an almost mythical...
- 12/29/2022
- by Sharon Knolle
- The Wrap
Stephen Greif, who is known for playing Speaker of the House Sir Bernard Weatherill on Season 4 of “The Crown,” has died at 78.
“With great sadness we announce the death of our wonderful client Stephen Greif,” the English actor’s rep Michelle Braidman Associates tweeted Monday. “We will miss him dearly and our thoughts are with his family and friends.”
With great sadness we announce the death of our wonderful client Stephen Greif.
His extensive career included numerous roles on screen and stage, including at the National Theatre, RSC and in the West End.
We will miss him dearly and our thoughts are with his family and friends x pic.twitter.com/sYcwILCvNr
— Michelle Braidman Associates (@TeamBraidman) December 26, 2022
Greif was born on Aug. 26, 1944, in Highgate, London. He is survived by two sons.
Also Read:
Dax Tejera, Executive Producer of ABC’s ‘This Week,’ Dies at 37
Greif’s extensive career included numerous roles on screen and stage,...
“With great sadness we announce the death of our wonderful client Stephen Greif,” the English actor’s rep Michelle Braidman Associates tweeted Monday. “We will miss him dearly and our thoughts are with his family and friends.”
With great sadness we announce the death of our wonderful client Stephen Greif.
His extensive career included numerous roles on screen and stage, including at the National Theatre, RSC and in the West End.
We will miss him dearly and our thoughts are with his family and friends x pic.twitter.com/sYcwILCvNr
— Michelle Braidman Associates (@TeamBraidman) December 26, 2022
Greif was born on Aug. 26, 1944, in Highgate, London. He is survived by two sons.
Also Read:
Dax Tejera, Executive Producer of ABC’s ‘This Week,’ Dies at 37
Greif’s extensive career included numerous roles on screen and stage,...
- 12/27/2022
- by Lucas Manfredi
- The Wrap
Stephen Greif — the British actor known for his work on some iconic British TV shows including “Blake’s 7”, “Citizen Smith” and, most recently, Netflix’s “The Crown” — has died. He was 78.
News of Greif’s death was first shared by his agency, Michelle Braidman Associates, who took to social media to share a tribute to the veteran actor.
“With great sadness we announce the death of our wonderful client Stephen Greif,” the agency shared. “His extensive career included numerous roles on screen and stage, including at the National Theatre, RSC and in the West End.”
“We will miss him dearly and our thoughts are with his family and friends,” the statement added.
With great sadness we announce the death of our wonderful client Stephen Greif.
His extensive career included numerous roles on screen and stage, including at the National Theatre, RSC and in the West End.
We will miss him...
News of Greif’s death was first shared by his agency, Michelle Braidman Associates, who took to social media to share a tribute to the veteran actor.
“With great sadness we announce the death of our wonderful client Stephen Greif,” the agency shared. “His extensive career included numerous roles on screen and stage, including at the National Theatre, RSC and in the West End.”
“We will miss him dearly and our thoughts are with his family and friends,” the statement added.
With great sadness we announce the death of our wonderful client Stephen Greif.
His extensive career included numerous roles on screen and stage, including at the National Theatre, RSC and in the West End.
We will miss him...
- 12/27/2022
- by Becca Longmire
- ET Canada
On the last Empire Podcast of the year, we have something of a The Prestige reunion, which is nice. First, Christian Bale, star of The Pale Blue Eye, talks to Chris Hewitt about being mistaken for Gareth Bale, and his experiences working with directors on multiple occasions, including Adam McKay, Scott Cooper, and Terrence Malick. Then Hugh Jackman, Golden Globe-nominated star of The Son (which opens here in February), talks to Amon Warmann about his experiences on that movie, working with Anthony Hopkins for a day, and why he's about to play Wolverine again in Deadpool 3. Then, Kate Hudson and Jessica Henwick, neither of whom were in The Prestige, more than make up for it by having a freewheeling and very funny chat with Chris about their new movie Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery, life with an assistant, British sitcoms, and John Carpenter and Kurt Russell.
And if that weren't enough,...
And if that weren't enough,...
- 12/23/2022
- by James White
- Empire - Movies
Celebrated director who created a film classic with his debut feature, the powerful crime movie Get Carter
Of the celebrated British directors indebted to television for their early success, Mike Hodges, who has died aged 90, probably had the most erratic career.
With his feature film debut Get Carter (1971), Hodges made his most acclaimed movie. Although it is now acknowledged as a classic of British cinema, on its release its depiction of gangsterdom and the world of a professional killer was not to every critic’s taste. Pauline Kael described it as “so calculatedly cool and soulless and nastily erotic that it seems to belong to a new genre of virtuoso viciousness”.
Of the celebrated British directors indebted to television for their early success, Mike Hodges, who has died aged 90, probably had the most erratic career.
With his feature film debut Get Carter (1971), Hodges made his most acclaimed movie. Although it is now acknowledged as a classic of British cinema, on its release its depiction of gangsterdom and the world of a professional killer was not to every critic’s taste. Pauline Kael described it as “so calculatedly cool and soulless and nastily erotic that it seems to belong to a new genre of virtuoso viciousness”.
- 12/22/2022
- by Brian Baxter
- The Guardian - Film News
Brian Blessed has paid tribute to Mike Hodges, who directed him in the film Flash Gordon.
Hodges, who also directed Get Carter and The Long Good Friday, died, aged 90 on Saturday (17 December),
The news was announced by Mike Kaplan, Hodges’ longtime friend who produced his film I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead in 2003.
Blessed appeared on BBC Radio 4’s World At One programme, where he said Hodges had “a very powerful personality and a joyful, cheerful, brilliant imagination”.
He said that 1980’s Flash Gordon is “the only film, apart from Henry V with Kenneth Branagh, that I raced to the studio to start filming”.
Blessed, 86, described the filmmaker as having “a brilliant imagination”, adding: “His direction – mind-blowing. Great manner, great perception. The film was a breath of fresh air.”
A quintessential product of the era, Flash Gordon was a box-office success in the UK and subsequently developed a...
Hodges, who also directed Get Carter and The Long Good Friday, died, aged 90 on Saturday (17 December),
The news was announced by Mike Kaplan, Hodges’ longtime friend who produced his film I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead in 2003.
Blessed appeared on BBC Radio 4’s World At One programme, where he said Hodges had “a very powerful personality and a joyful, cheerful, brilliant imagination”.
He said that 1980’s Flash Gordon is “the only film, apart from Henry V with Kenneth Branagh, that I raced to the studio to start filming”.
Blessed, 86, described the filmmaker as having “a brilliant imagination”, adding: “His direction – mind-blowing. Great manner, great perception. The film was a breath of fresh air.”
A quintessential product of the era, Flash Gordon was a box-office success in the UK and subsequently developed a...
- 12/22/2022
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - Film
O’Shea Jackson Jr has joined the “nepo baby” discourse, saying that his career “was up to him”.
A debate about the children of celebrities and their privilege erupted after Vulture released an exhaustive guide to the Hollywood “nepo-verse”.
Now, the son of actor and rapper Ice Cube has entered the chat, saddling both sides of the argument.
“My dad told me in a perfect world, I would play him in Straight Outta Compton. I was already in college for screenwriting at USC,” Jackson Jr wrote on Twitter. “I accepted the challenge. And auditioned for two years before getting the role.”
Jackson Jr made his film debut portraying his father in the 2015 crime drama.
“After that it was up to me, he couldn’t hold my hand through my career,” he continued. “I had to get my a** up and make it work.”
Family first. May everyone who reads this, blaze...
A debate about the children of celebrities and their privilege erupted after Vulture released an exhaustive guide to the Hollywood “nepo-verse”.
Now, the son of actor and rapper Ice Cube has entered the chat, saddling both sides of the argument.
“My dad told me in a perfect world, I would play him in Straight Outta Compton. I was already in college for screenwriting at USC,” Jackson Jr wrote on Twitter. “I accepted the challenge. And auditioned for two years before getting the role.”
Jackson Jr made his film debut portraying his father in the 2015 crime drama.
“After that it was up to me, he couldn’t hold my hand through my career,” he continued. “I had to get my a** up and make it work.”
Family first. May everyone who reads this, blaze...
- 12/21/2022
- by Inga Parkel
- The Independent - Film
British director Mike Hodges, known for directing “Get Carter”, “Flash Gordon”, “Croupier” and more, died at his home in Dorset, England, on Dec. 17. He was 90.
Hodges’ longtime friend, Mike Kaplan, confirmed his death to Et calling the late director “a great friend and a great filmmaker.”
“For a part of his career, he was under-appreciated, and he is not anymore,” the film producer shared. “‘Get Carter’ was a huge success all over the world. He had a great sense of humour. All of his movies were entrenched with humour and personality.”
Born in Bristol, England in 1932, Hodges first became an accountant before doing his required military service by serving on a British minesweeper. He began his career in show business as a teleprompter operator for British television.
Landing work on ABC’s “Armchair Theatre”, Hodges rose quickly to become a producer and director, entering the international film scene with 1971’s...
Hodges’ longtime friend, Mike Kaplan, confirmed his death to Et calling the late director “a great friend and a great filmmaker.”
“For a part of his career, he was under-appreciated, and he is not anymore,” the film producer shared. “‘Get Carter’ was a huge success all over the world. He had a great sense of humour. All of his movies were entrenched with humour and personality.”
Born in Bristol, England in 1932, Hodges first became an accountant before doing his required military service by serving on a British minesweeper. He began his career in show business as a teleprompter operator for British television.
Landing work on ABC’s “Armchair Theatre”, Hodges rose quickly to become a producer and director, entering the international film scene with 1971’s...
- 12/21/2022
- by Becca Longmire
- ET Canada
British director Mike Hodges, known for films like “Flash Gordon” and “Croupier”, has died. He was 90. His death was confirmed to NBC News by producer and “I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead” collaborator Mike Kaplan, reports ‘People’ magazine.
According to Kaplan, Hodges died at his home in Dorset, England, due to heart failure. Hodges’ long standing career dates back to the 1950s. Before getting a start in films, he spent two years in mandatory national service on a royal navy minesweeper, which he credits as the inspiration for his first film, “Get Carter”.
In a letter published by The Guardian in May, quoted by ‘People’, he said: “For two years, my middle-class eyes were forced to witness horrendous poverty and deprivation that I was previously unaware of. I went into the navy as a newly qualified chartered accountant and complacent young Tory, and came out an angry, radical young man.
According to Kaplan, Hodges died at his home in Dorset, England, due to heart failure. Hodges’ long standing career dates back to the 1950s. Before getting a start in films, he spent two years in mandatory national service on a royal navy minesweeper, which he credits as the inspiration for his first film, “Get Carter”.
In a letter published by The Guardian in May, quoted by ‘People’, he said: “For two years, my middle-class eyes were forced to witness horrendous poverty and deprivation that I was previously unaware of. I went into the navy as a newly qualified chartered accountant and complacent young Tory, and came out an angry, radical young man.
- 12/21/2022
- by Glamsham Bureau
- GlamSham
With films as varied as Get Carter, Flash Gordon and Croupier to his name, Hodges, who has died aged 90, was a great social commentator as well as a wonderful storyteller
Earlier this year, the film-maker Mike Hodges wrote a wonderful letter to this newspaper, in answer to the question I had posed in an article about his British mobster movie from 1971: “Even after 50 years, do we properly get Carter?” Hodges laid it bare: we will get Carter if we get that it’s a Hogarthian polemic about the British class system with all its shame and self-hate.
In the late 50s, Hodges did his national service in the Royal Navy, in the course of which he witnessed the poverty and wretchedness in fishing ports such as North Shields, where much of Get Carter is set. This injustice radicalised Hodges, turning him – in his own words – from a complacent young...
Earlier this year, the film-maker Mike Hodges wrote a wonderful letter to this newspaper, in answer to the question I had posed in an article about his British mobster movie from 1971: “Even after 50 years, do we properly get Carter?” Hodges laid it bare: we will get Carter if we get that it’s a Hogarthian polemic about the British class system with all its shame and self-hate.
In the late 50s, Hodges did his national service in the Royal Navy, in the course of which he witnessed the poverty and wretchedness in fishing ports such as North Shields, where much of Get Carter is set. This injustice radicalised Hodges, turning him – in his own words – from a complacent young...
- 12/21/2022
- by Peter Bradshaw
- The Guardian - Film News
Mike Hodges, director of Flash Gordon, has passed. Finally saw this movie during the pandemic and it brought me such joy. Have watched it a bunch of times since. Nothing else like it. Rest in Peace, sir. pic.twitter.com/v0YQDBmaFs
— Brian Lynch (@BrianLynch) December 20, 2022
Tributes have been paid to Get Carter director Mike Hodges who has died at the age of 90.
His long-time friend Mike Kaplan confirmed the director's death in Dorset on Saturday, although no further details have been released.
After his gangster classic starring Michael Caine as a man out for justice, which Hodges adapted himself for the screen from the book by Ted Lewis, he reteamed with the star on Pulp the following year.
Among his other credits were Flash Gordon and, with Clive Owen, Croupier and I'll Sleep When I'm Dead. Owen told us in an interview he believed...
— Brian Lynch (@BrianLynch) December 20, 2022
Tributes have been paid to Get Carter director Mike Hodges who has died at the age of 90.
His long-time friend Mike Kaplan confirmed the director's death in Dorset on Saturday, although no further details have been released.
After his gangster classic starring Michael Caine as a man out for justice, which Hodges adapted himself for the screen from the book by Ted Lewis, he reteamed with the star on Pulp the following year.
Among his other credits were Flash Gordon and, with Clive Owen, Croupier and I'll Sleep When I'm Dead. Owen told us in an interview he believed...
- 12/21/2022
- by Amber Wilkinson
- eyeforfilm.co.uk
Director Mike Hodges has died aged 90.
The filmmaker behind Get Carter and Flash Gordon died on Saturday (17 December) of heart failure at his home in Dorset.
His death was confirmed by producer Mike Kaplan, a friend and collaborator of Hodges’, who said he died of heart failure.
Born in Bristol in 1932, Hodges worked as a chartered accountant and in the Navy under national service before beginning a career in the screen industries.
His first media job was as a teleprompter operator and he quickly rose up the ranks in UK television.
He made his feature debut in 1971 with Get Carter, which he wrote and directed. Starring Michael Caine, it follows a London gangster who returns home to Newcastle after learning about the death of his brother.
Hodges initially wrote the role of Jack Carter for Ian Hendry and was surprised to learn that an actor as prominent as Caine would...
The filmmaker behind Get Carter and Flash Gordon died on Saturday (17 December) of heart failure at his home in Dorset.
His death was confirmed by producer Mike Kaplan, a friend and collaborator of Hodges’, who said he died of heart failure.
Born in Bristol in 1932, Hodges worked as a chartered accountant and in the Navy under national service before beginning a career in the screen industries.
His first media job was as a teleprompter operator and he quickly rose up the ranks in UK television.
He made his feature debut in 1971 with Get Carter, which he wrote and directed. Starring Michael Caine, it follows a London gangster who returns home to Newcastle after learning about the death of his brother.
Hodges initially wrote the role of Jack Carter for Ian Hendry and was surprised to learn that an actor as prominent as Caine would...
- 12/21/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - Film
Crime thriller stalwart also shot Croupier, Flash Gordon.
Mike Hodges, the British director known for gritty crime films such as Get Carter and Croupier, has died. He was 90.
According to reports Hodges passed away at his home in Dorset in the south of England on Saturday (December 17). The cause of death was unknown at time of writing.
Hodges was born in Bristol in 1932 and qualified as an accountant before joining the Navy. Some years later he found work as a teleprompter in television, worked on Granada Television’s World In Action investigative news series, and directed two shows for ITV Playhouse.
Mike Hodges, the British director known for gritty crime films such as Get Carter and Croupier, has died. He was 90.
According to reports Hodges passed away at his home in Dorset in the south of England on Saturday (December 17). The cause of death was unknown at time of writing.
Hodges was born in Bristol in 1932 and qualified as an accountant before joining the Navy. Some years later he found work as a teleprompter in television, worked on Granada Television’s World In Action investigative news series, and directed two shows for ITV Playhouse.
- 12/21/2022
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Mike Hodges, director of films like "Get Carter," "Croupier," and "Flash Gordon," has died in Dorset, England, at the age of 90, according to Variety. The site reports that Hodges' passing was announced by his friend Mike Kaplan, who worked on his film "I'll Sleep When I'm Dead" as a producer. Hodges was known for crime dramas, with his last feature film released in 2003. He worked with Michael Caine in both "Get Carter," a British gangster drama, and 1972's "Pulp," about a pulp fiction author tasked with ghost-writing a celebrity's memoir, then solving that celebrity's murder.
Crime was a draw for Hodges, who said in an interview with Mulholland Books for his 2010 debut novel "Watching the Wheels Come Off," "Crime is the litmus that shows what's really going on below the surface. That's why I'm attracted to it. Besides, as one myself, sinners interest me more than saints." Writers also figured into another film from Hodges,...
Crime was a draw for Hodges, who said in an interview with Mulholland Books for his 2010 debut novel "Watching the Wheels Come Off," "Crime is the litmus that shows what's really going on below the surface. That's why I'm attracted to it. Besides, as one myself, sinners interest me more than saints." Writers also figured into another film from Hodges,...
- 12/21/2022
- by Jenna Busch
- Slash Film
Sad news to report today as it was announced that British writer and director Mike Hodges died on December 17th at the age of 90. Hodges was best known for directing Get Carter, which has been described as “one of the great British gangster films of all time,” as well as Flash Gordon, the colourful, pulpy sci-fi fantasy based on the comic strip of the same name.
Mike Hodges got his start working as a teleprompter operator for British television before writing and directing films for TV. His first feature film was Get Carter, a crime drama which starred Michael Caine as a London gangster who returns to his hometown to learn about his brother’s supposedly accidental death. He reunited with Caine for his next film, Pulp, and went on to direct The Terminal Man, Flash Gordon, Morons from Outer Space, A Prayer for the Dying, Black Rainbow, Croupier, and...
Mike Hodges got his start working as a teleprompter operator for British television before writing and directing films for TV. His first feature film was Get Carter, a crime drama which starred Michael Caine as a London gangster who returns to his hometown to learn about his brother’s supposedly accidental death. He reunited with Caine for his next film, Pulp, and went on to direct The Terminal Man, Flash Gordon, Morons from Outer Space, A Prayer for the Dying, Black Rainbow, Croupier, and...
- 12/21/2022
- by Kevin Fraser
- JoBlo.com
Jeremy Clarkson will remain the host of ITV’s “Who Wants to Be a Million?” in the U.K. despite backlash from an op-ed in The Sun that members of Parliament condemned as “violent misogynistic language” against Meghan Markle, according to Kevin Lygo, ITV’s managing director of media and entertainment.
“What he writes in a newspaper column is really more for you to talk about because we have no control over what he says,” Lygo said to the Broadcasting Press Guild in London. “We hire him as a consummate broadcaster of the most famous quiz show on television. So it’s not quite in our wheelhouse.”
Lygo also called his remarks “awful” and noted that Clarkson has “acknowledged that,” but “should apologize.”
“I don’t know what he was thinking when he wrote that,” Lygo said.
The news of Clarkson remaining on air comes a day after the host...
“What he writes in a newspaper column is really more for you to talk about because we have no control over what he says,” Lygo said to the Broadcasting Press Guild in London. “We hire him as a consummate broadcaster of the most famous quiz show on television. So it’s not quite in our wheelhouse.”
Lygo also called his remarks “awful” and noted that Clarkson has “acknowledged that,” but “should apologize.”
“I don’t know what he was thinking when he wrote that,” Lygo said.
The news of Clarkson remaining on air comes a day after the host...
- 12/21/2022
- by Loree Seitz
- The Wrap
Mike Hodges, best known as the director of gritty, stylish thrillers like Get Carter — the original — Croupier, The Terminal Man and I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead has died, according to his longtime friend and the producer of I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead, Mike Kaplan. Hodges was 90.
Hodges was a relatively new director who’d worked mostly in TV when he burst upon the international film scene with Get Carter in 1971. The crime drama starring Michael Caine is still considered among the best British gangster films ever made. Set against a working class background in northern England, Hodges blended irony and humor with stark tension and sudden violence. Those elements became, along with his attention to atmosphere, his signatures. The film was remade in 2000 with Sylvester Stallone as the lead.
Michael Caine in ‘Get Carter’ circa 1971. (Silver Screen Collection/Getty Images)
In 2000, his film Croupier introduced the world to Clive Owen.
Hodges was a relatively new director who’d worked mostly in TV when he burst upon the international film scene with Get Carter in 1971. The crime drama starring Michael Caine is still considered among the best British gangster films ever made. Set against a working class background in northern England, Hodges blended irony and humor with stark tension and sudden violence. Those elements became, along with his attention to atmosphere, his signatures. The film was remade in 2000 with Sylvester Stallone as the lead.
Michael Caine in ‘Get Carter’ circa 1971. (Silver Screen Collection/Getty Images)
In 2000, his film Croupier introduced the world to Clive Owen.
- 12/20/2022
- by Tom Tapp
- Deadline Film + TV
Mike Hodges, British director known for “Croupier,” “Flash Gordon,” and “Get Carter,” has died. He was 90.
Hodges’ good friend Mike Kaplan and producer of “I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead” confirmed the director’s death to multiple media outlets.
At the beginning of his career, Hodges carved out a space for himself in crime dramas with “Get Carter” (1971) and “Pulp” (1972), concluding with “Croupier” (1999) and “I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead” (2003). Outside of this bookend category of his catalog, he was also known for his rendition of “Flash Gordon.”
Also Read:
Stephanie Bissonnette, Cast Member of ‘Mean Girls the Musical,’ Dies at 32
Hodges adapted “Get Carter” from a novel by Ted Lewis. The story follows Caine, a London gangster who seeks vengeance fr his brother’s murder. The British gangster movie experienced a resurgence after its 2000 remake starring Sylvester Stallone in the role of Caine.
Hodges’ second film “Pulp” consisted of another crime drama,...
Hodges’ good friend Mike Kaplan and producer of “I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead” confirmed the director’s death to multiple media outlets.
At the beginning of his career, Hodges carved out a space for himself in crime dramas with “Get Carter” (1971) and “Pulp” (1972), concluding with “Croupier” (1999) and “I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead” (2003). Outside of this bookend category of his catalog, he was also known for his rendition of “Flash Gordon.”
Also Read:
Stephanie Bissonnette, Cast Member of ‘Mean Girls the Musical,’ Dies at 32
Hodges adapted “Get Carter” from a novel by Ted Lewis. The story follows Caine, a London gangster who seeks vengeance fr his brother’s murder. The British gangster movie experienced a resurgence after its 2000 remake starring Sylvester Stallone in the role of Caine.
Hodges’ second film “Pulp” consisted of another crime drama,...
- 12/20/2022
- by Dessi Gomez
- The Wrap
“Get Carter” writer-director Mike Hodges has died at age 90.
Longtime friend and “I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead” producer Mike Kaplan confirmed Hodges’ passing on December 20. Hodges died of heart failure December 17 at his home in Dorset, England. He is survived by his wife Carol Laws, two sons Ben and Jake Hodges, and five grandchildren.
Hodges helmed gangster thriller novel adaptation “Get Carter,” which starred Michael Caine as hitman Jack Carter who investigates a pornography ring involved in his brother’s murder. The 1971 neo-noir film was named one of the 100 best British films of all-time by Sight and Sound magazine in 1999.
Hodges and Caine formed production company Three Michaels along with “Get Carter” producer Michael Klinger. The trio returned for 1972’s “Pulp,” with Caine playing a bodice-ripper novelist hired by a former actor (Mickey Rooney) to ghostwrite his autobiography.
Hodges later directed “The Terminal Man,” “Damien: Omen II,” “Black Rainbow,...
Longtime friend and “I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead” producer Mike Kaplan confirmed Hodges’ passing on December 20. Hodges died of heart failure December 17 at his home in Dorset, England. He is survived by his wife Carol Laws, two sons Ben and Jake Hodges, and five grandchildren.
Hodges helmed gangster thriller novel adaptation “Get Carter,” which starred Michael Caine as hitman Jack Carter who investigates a pornography ring involved in his brother’s murder. The 1971 neo-noir film was named one of the 100 best British films of all-time by Sight and Sound magazine in 1999.
Hodges and Caine formed production company Three Michaels along with “Get Carter” producer Michael Klinger. The trio returned for 1972’s “Pulp,” with Caine playing a bodice-ripper novelist hired by a former actor (Mickey Rooney) to ghostwrite his autobiography.
Hodges later directed “The Terminal Man,” “Damien: Omen II,” “Black Rainbow,...
- 12/20/2022
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
British director was known for his often bleak and brutal gangster films, most famously his 1971 film Get Carter starring Michael Caine
Mike Hodges, the British director known for films including Get Carter, Croupier, The Terminal Man and Flash Gordon, has died at the age of 90.
Mike Kaplan, a longtime friend and producer on Hodges’ final feature film I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead, confirmed his death to the Guardian. Hodges died at his home in Dorset on Saturday. A cause of death was not given.
Mike Hodges, the British director known for films including Get Carter, Croupier, The Terminal Man and Flash Gordon, has died at the age of 90.
Mike Kaplan, a longtime friend and producer on Hodges’ final feature film I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead, confirmed his death to the Guardian. Hodges died at his home in Dorset on Saturday. A cause of death was not given.
- 12/20/2022
- by Sian Cain
- The Guardian - Film News
Click here to read the full article.
Mike Hodges, who made his feature debut by writing and directing the seminal British gangster film Get Carter, starring Michael Caine, then replaced Nicolas Roeg to helm the cult sci-fi hit Flash Gordon, has died. He was 90.
Hodges died Saturday of heart failure at his home in Dorset, England, confirmed his friend Mike Kaplan, who produced Hodges’ 2003 film I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead.
The British filmmaker also wrote and directed Pulp (1972) in a quick follow-up with Caine; the bleak The Terminal Man (1974), an adaptation of a Michael Crichton novel that starred George Segal; Damien: Omen II (1978), though he was fired three weeks into the shoot and replaced by Don Taylor; and Black Rainbow (1989), starring Rosanna Arquette as a medium.
In addition, Hodges helmed the Mickey Rourke-starring Ira thriller A Prayer for the Dying (1987), which he said was re-edited without his...
Mike Hodges, who made his feature debut by writing and directing the seminal British gangster film Get Carter, starring Michael Caine, then replaced Nicolas Roeg to helm the cult sci-fi hit Flash Gordon, has died. He was 90.
Hodges died Saturday of heart failure at his home in Dorset, England, confirmed his friend Mike Kaplan, who produced Hodges’ 2003 film I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead.
The British filmmaker also wrote and directed Pulp (1972) in a quick follow-up with Caine; the bleak The Terminal Man (1974), an adaptation of a Michael Crichton novel that starred George Segal; Damien: Omen II (1978), though he was fired three weeks into the shoot and replaced by Don Taylor; and Black Rainbow (1989), starring Rosanna Arquette as a medium.
In addition, Hodges helmed the Mickey Rourke-starring Ira thriller A Prayer for the Dying (1987), which he said was re-edited without his...
- 12/20/2022
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
British director Mike Hodges, known for directing “Get Carter,” “Croupier” and “Flash Gordon,” died in Dorset, England on Dec. 17. He was 90.
His death was announced by Mike Kaplan, longtime friend and producer of “I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead.”
Hodges’ crime dramas came at the beginning of his career — “Get Carter” (1971) and “Pulp” (1972) — and the end — “Croupier” (1999) and “I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead” (2003). In addition to his crime dramas he was known for his campy, stylized take on “Flash Gordon.”
Andrew Sarris wrote in the Observer in 2000, “Director Mike Hodges has become one of the most under-appreciated and virtually unknown masters of the medium over the last 30 years” and “Mr. Hodges has been hailed by everyone from Martin Scorsese to Pauline Kael as a stylist of the first order.”
Hodges adapted “Get Carter” — one of the greatest British gangster movies of all time — himself from a novel by Ted Lewis.
His death was announced by Mike Kaplan, longtime friend and producer of “I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead.”
Hodges’ crime dramas came at the beginning of his career — “Get Carter” (1971) and “Pulp” (1972) — and the end — “Croupier” (1999) and “I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead” (2003). In addition to his crime dramas he was known for his campy, stylized take on “Flash Gordon.”
Andrew Sarris wrote in the Observer in 2000, “Director Mike Hodges has become one of the most under-appreciated and virtually unknown masters of the medium over the last 30 years” and “Mr. Hodges has been hailed by everyone from Martin Scorsese to Pauline Kael as a stylist of the first order.”
Hodges adapted “Get Carter” — one of the greatest British gangster movies of all time — himself from a novel by Ted Lewis.
- 12/20/2022
- by Carmel Dagan
- Variety Film + TV
1998’s Croupier was that rare thing: a British film that had a muted response in the UK but achieved much more success over in the U.S. The low budget movie stars Clive Owen and follows the spiral of a struggling writer who takes a job in a local casino and becomes the inside man in its robbery. It’s a simple enough story, but the slick neo-noir execution is deft, and Owen’s subtle central performance won over critics stateside, with Roger Ebert comparing it to Sean Connery’s own “physical reserve” as James Bond.
“It was incredibly successful in America, much to my surprise,” Croupier director Mike Hodges tells Den of Geek now. “There were hardly any advertising campaigns, so it was one of those delightful things where it was totally on word of mouth. It went from 17 cinemas to 300 or something. I wouldn’t call it a blockbuster,...
“It was incredibly successful in America, much to my surprise,” Croupier director Mike Hodges tells Den of Geek now. “There were hardly any advertising campaigns, so it was one of those delightful things where it was totally on word of mouth. It went from 17 cinemas to 300 or something. I wouldn’t call it a blockbuster,...
- 11/17/2022
- by Kirsten Howard
- Den of Geek
Mike Hodges’ Brit-crime magnum opus from 1971, which gave Caine the role of a lifetime as gangland enforcer Jack Carter, can be savoured again on re-release
Even after 50 years, do we properly get Carter? And understand that his awful destiny is bound up with British shame, envy and the class system? Mike Hodges created a Brit-crime magnum opus with this unforgettably sleazy, slimy, nasty film from 1971 – now on re-release, linked to the director’s retrospective at London’s BFI Southbank. It is a violent kitchen-sink pulp with the observational brilliance and dour working-class realism of something by Ken Loach, adapted by Hodges from the novel Jack’s Return Home by the neglected British writer Ted Lewis.
Hodges gave the role of a lifetime to Michael Caine as the dead-eyed, pill-popping gangland enforcer Jack Carter, who is working for London’s mobster porn supremos with their interest in trafficking and exploitation. Carter...
Even after 50 years, do we properly get Carter? And understand that his awful destiny is bound up with British shame, envy and the class system? Mike Hodges created a Brit-crime magnum opus with this unforgettably sleazy, slimy, nasty film from 1971 – now on re-release, linked to the director’s retrospective at London’s BFI Southbank. It is a violent kitchen-sink pulp with the observational brilliance and dour working-class realism of something by Ken Loach, adapted by Hodges from the novel Jack’s Return Home by the neglected British writer Ted Lewis.
Hodges gave the role of a lifetime to Michael Caine as the dead-eyed, pill-popping gangland enforcer Jack Carter, who is working for London’s mobster porn supremos with their interest in trafficking and exploitation. Carter...
- 5/25/2022
- by Peter Bradshaw
- The Guardian - Film News
Get Carter (1971). Courtesy Warner Bros. Pictures.A fascinating figure in British cinema, Mike Hodges made his astonishing debut with Get Carter in 1971, a vicious tale of gangland revenge featuring an immortal lead performance from Michael Caine. A seminal British gangster movie, Get Carter immediately announced the arrival of a filmmaker with a keen eye for genre deconstruction, the film’s pithy nihilism and modernist sensibilities strikingly attuned to its vision of wanton amorality and national dilapidation. Other studio gigs followed, but film after film, it quickly became apparent that executives and marketing departments had no idea what to do with the work of this perennial outsider. The Terminal Man (1974) never saw a UK release, and A Prayer for the Dying (1987) was re-cut behind his back. Horror sequel Omen II: Damien (1978) was a disaster from the off, with Hodges unceremoniously replaced as director, and Black Rainbow (1989) effectively vanished for some 30 years.
- 5/11/2022
- MUBI
Mubi has unveiled its streaming offerings this April in the U.S. and leading the pack is a special spotlight on Franz Rogowski, star of their recent theatrical release Great Freedom. Selections include Christian Petzold’s Transit as well as a pair of underseen offerings, Luzifer and Aisles.
Also in the lineup are a number of recent releases, including Dominik Graf’s Fabian: Going to the Dogs, Alice Rohrwacher, Francesco Munzi, and Pietro Marcello’s Futura, Mario Furloni and Kate McLean’s Freeland, and Sion Sono’s Red Post On Escher Street. Timed with her new documentary Cow, a trio of shorts by Andrea Arnold will also arrive.
Check out the lineup below and get 30 days free here.
April 1 | Battle Royale | Kinji Fukasaku
April 2 | Mood Indigo | Michel Gondry
April 3 | Army of Shadows | Jean-Pierre Melville
April 4 | Wasp | Andrea Arnold | Three Shorts by Andrea Arnold
April 5 | Tracks | Henry Jaglom | Method in the...
Also in the lineup are a number of recent releases, including Dominik Graf’s Fabian: Going to the Dogs, Alice Rohrwacher, Francesco Munzi, and Pietro Marcello’s Futura, Mario Furloni and Kate McLean’s Freeland, and Sion Sono’s Red Post On Escher Street. Timed with her new documentary Cow, a trio of shorts by Andrea Arnold will also arrive.
Check out the lineup below and get 30 days free here.
April 1 | Battle Royale | Kinji Fukasaku
April 2 | Mood Indigo | Michel Gondry
April 3 | Army of Shadows | Jean-Pierre Melville
April 4 | Wasp | Andrea Arnold | Three Shorts by Andrea Arnold
April 5 | Tracks | Henry Jaglom | Method in the...
- 3/31/2022
- by Leonard Pearce
- The Film Stage
Cinema Retro has received the following press release from the BFI:
London – 16 March 2022. The BFI is excited to announce the forthcoming re-release of director Mike Hodges’ seminal Get Carter, starring Michael Caine, in cinemas in the UK and Ireland on Friday 27 May 2022. A partnership with Warner Bros. Pictures and Warner Bros. Entertainment UK Ltd has enabled the film to be newly restored in 4K by the BFI for theatrical and home entertainment release. Utilising the original 35mm camera negative, the restoration will be approved by Mike Hodges himself.
As well as screening in cinemas around the country, the film will have a two week Extended Run at BFI Southbank as part of the Mike Hodges retrospective, Return Of The Outsider: The Films of Mike Hodges running from 1 – 31 May 2022. The season will feature special in person events including Mike Hodges In Conversation on 3 May, and showcase his distinctive and eclectic...
London – 16 March 2022. The BFI is excited to announce the forthcoming re-release of director Mike Hodges’ seminal Get Carter, starring Michael Caine, in cinemas in the UK and Ireland on Friday 27 May 2022. A partnership with Warner Bros. Pictures and Warner Bros. Entertainment UK Ltd has enabled the film to be newly restored in 4K by the BFI for theatrical and home entertainment release. Utilising the original 35mm camera negative, the restoration will be approved by Mike Hodges himself.
As well as screening in cinemas around the country, the film will have a two week Extended Run at BFI Southbank as part of the Mike Hodges retrospective, Return Of The Outsider: The Films of Mike Hodges running from 1 – 31 May 2022. The season will feature special in person events including Mike Hodges In Conversation on 3 May, and showcase his distinctive and eclectic...
- 3/26/2022
- by nospam@example.com (Cinema Retro)
- Cinemaretro.com
There are moments of dreamlike brilliance in this extravagant fable of imperialism – provided you can stay awake to see them
With Denis Villeneuve’s new adaptation of Dune almost upon us, here is a chance to revisit David Lynch’s ill-starred attempt from 1984: the version of Frank Herbert’s classic sci-fi novel he wrote and directed under the aegis of producer Dino De Laurentiis. At the time, it was greeted with a bored shrug from both press and public, making it a rare failure for Lynch. It would be agreeably contrarian to claim that Lynch’s Dune is an underrated masterpiece – but it isn’t exactly. There are, admittedly, some moments of expressionist panache and dreamlike strangeness; it sometimes feels like a freewheeling sci-fi production of a lost Shakespeare Roman play. There’s a wonderful scene when the mighty sandworm on the planet Arrakis is tamed and mastered, which...
With Denis Villeneuve’s new adaptation of Dune almost upon us, here is a chance to revisit David Lynch’s ill-starred attempt from 1984: the version of Frank Herbert’s classic sci-fi novel he wrote and directed under the aegis of producer Dino De Laurentiis. At the time, it was greeted with a bored shrug from both press and public, making it a rare failure for Lynch. It would be agreeably contrarian to claim that Lynch’s Dune is an underrated masterpiece – but it isn’t exactly. There are, admittedly, some moments of expressionist panache and dreamlike strangeness; it sometimes feels like a freewheeling sci-fi production of a lost Shakespeare Roman play. There’s a wonderful scene when the mighty sandworm on the planet Arrakis is tamed and mastered, which...
- 9/24/2021
- by Peter Bradshaw
- The Guardian - Film News
Bucking the trends for ’80s crime films, Neil Jordan’s tale of a low-rung hood attached to a ‘complicated’ call girl becomes a love story about meaningful relationships. Sort of the ‘anti- Travis Bickle,’ Bob Hoskins’ low-class mug discovers emotions and an ability to commit that could even be called Chivalric. Michael Caine chills as an all-too real villain, the boss that doesn’t think Hoskins worthy of a straight answer. Topping it off, cinematographer Roger Pratt makes this possibly the best-looking British crime film in color.
Mona Lisa
Blu-ray
The Criterion Collection 107
1986 / Color / 1:85 widescreen / 104 min. / available through The Criterion Collection / Street Date September 14, 2021 / 39.95
Starring: Bob Hoskins, Cathy Tyson, Robbie Coltrane, Michael Caine, Clarke Peters, Sammi Davis, Kate Hardie, Zoe Nathenson.
Cinematography: Roger Pratt
Production Designer: Jamie Leonard
Costume Designer: Louise Frogley
Film Editor: Lesley Walker
Original Music: Michael Kamen
Written by Neil Jordan, David Leland
Produced by Patrick Cassavetti,...
Mona Lisa
Blu-ray
The Criterion Collection 107
1986 / Color / 1:85 widescreen / 104 min. / available through The Criterion Collection / Street Date September 14, 2021 / 39.95
Starring: Bob Hoskins, Cathy Tyson, Robbie Coltrane, Michael Caine, Clarke Peters, Sammi Davis, Kate Hardie, Zoe Nathenson.
Cinematography: Roger Pratt
Production Designer: Jamie Leonard
Costume Designer: Louise Frogley
Film Editor: Lesley Walker
Original Music: Michael Kamen
Written by Neil Jordan, David Leland
Produced by Patrick Cassavetti,...
- 9/18/2021
- by Glenn Erickson
- Trailers from Hell
Actor Robert Sacchi, known for his close resemblance to Humphrey Bogart, died June 23 at Barlow Respiratory Hospital in Los Angeles after a brief illness. He was 89.
Sacchi played the title role in the 1980 feature “The Man With Bogart’s Face.” He also appeared in many films, TV shows and commercials playing Bogart or a Bogart look-alike. That list includes appearances on the sitcom “Cybill,” a Phil Collins musicvideo and “Fantasy Island,” as well as his one-man show, “Bogey’s Back” and touring productions of Woody Allen’s comedy “Play It Again, Sam.”
He also played other characters in such works as the Mike Hodges-Michael Caine movie “Pulp,” the Anthony Quinn-Yaphet Kotto drama “Across 110th Street” and “Die Hard 2,” among others. He also had a top 10 hit in Germany with the 1982 single “Jungle Queen” and authored the book “Willie Pep Remembers … Friday’s Heroes.”
“The Man With Bogart’s Face...
Sacchi played the title role in the 1980 feature “The Man With Bogart’s Face.” He also appeared in many films, TV shows and commercials playing Bogart or a Bogart look-alike. That list includes appearances on the sitcom “Cybill,” a Phil Collins musicvideo and “Fantasy Island,” as well as his one-man show, “Bogey’s Back” and touring productions of Woody Allen’s comedy “Play It Again, Sam.”
He also played other characters in such works as the Mike Hodges-Michael Caine movie “Pulp,” the Anthony Quinn-Yaphet Kotto drama “Across 110th Street” and “Die Hard 2,” among others. He also had a top 10 hit in Germany with the 1982 single “Jungle Queen” and authored the book “Willie Pep Remembers … Friday’s Heroes.”
“The Man With Bogart’s Face...
- 6/29/2021
- by Tim Gray
- Variety Film + TV
Despite the proliferation of streaming services, it’s becoming increasingly clear that any cinephile only needs subscriptions to a few to survive. Among the top of our list are The Criterion Channel and Mubi and now they’ve each unveiled their stellar April line-ups.
Over at The Criterion Channel, highlights include spotlights on Ennio Morricone, the Marx Brothers, Isabel Sandoval, and Ramin Bahrani, plus Luchino Visconti’s The Leopard, Frank Borzage’s Moonrise, the brand-new restoration of Joyce Chopra’s Smooth Talk, and one of last year’s best films, David Osit’s Mayor.
At Mubi (where we’re offering a 30-day trial), they’ll have the exclusive streaming premiere of two of the finest festival films from last year’s circuit, Cristi Puiu’s Malmkrog and Nobuhiko Obayashi’s Labyrinth of Cinema, plus Philippe Garrel’s latest The Salt of Tears, along with films from Terry Gilliam, George A. Romero,...
Over at The Criterion Channel, highlights include spotlights on Ennio Morricone, the Marx Brothers, Isabel Sandoval, and Ramin Bahrani, plus Luchino Visconti’s The Leopard, Frank Borzage’s Moonrise, the brand-new restoration of Joyce Chopra’s Smooth Talk, and one of last year’s best films, David Osit’s Mayor.
At Mubi (where we’re offering a 30-day trial), they’ll have the exclusive streaming premiere of two of the finest festival films from last year’s circuit, Cristi Puiu’s Malmkrog and Nobuhiko Obayashi’s Labyrinth of Cinema, plus Philippe Garrel’s latest The Salt of Tears, along with films from Terry Gilliam, George A. Romero,...
- 3/26/2021
- by Jordan Raup
- The Film Stage
The first full color issue of Den of Geek‘s glossy new magazine launched this month. It’s a gorgeous 68 page print magazine full of the latest features and interviews covering the very best of pop culture from movies and TV to comics, books, and games. Yep, it’s an actual old school physical item that you can read in the bathtub, flick through at your leisure, use as a fan, or whatever else you please.
Jealous you missed it? Don’t worry there’s still time to get your paws on issue two which will be delivered directly to your front door in May.
Issue one featured an exclusive Superman & Lois cover, we spoke with stars Tyler Hoechlin and Elizabeth Tulloch as well as the creators of the show to get the scoop on what’s going down at the Kent farm. We also visited the set of...
Jealous you missed it? Don’t worry there’s still time to get your paws on issue two which will be delivered directly to your front door in May.
Issue one featured an exclusive Superman & Lois cover, we spoke with stars Tyler Hoechlin and Elizabeth Tulloch as well as the creators of the show to get the scoop on what’s going down at the Kent farm. We also visited the set of...
- 2/25/2021
- by Rosie Fletcher
- Den of Geek
Following our enlightening Flash Gordon 40th anniversary interview with the film’s director, Mike Hodges, we got to have an in-depth conversation with author John Walsh. Titan Books published Walsh’s exhaustive coffee table book Flash Gordon: The Official Story of the Film last November. It was a labor of love for Walsh that delves into the making of the movie and celebrates its enduring appeal.
Walsh is a Trustee of the Ray and Diana Harryhausen Foundation, and was also behind the BBC’s critically acclaimed documentary series Sofa Surfers, which explored childhood homelessness, and the BAFTA-nominated film My Life: Karate Kids, which tackled issues of bullying among disabled children.
Den of Geek: You’ve been involved with preserving the legacy of the late Ray Harryhausen, and your first book through Titan was about some of his work. You first met him at film school in the 80s?
John Walsh: That’s right.
Walsh is a Trustee of the Ray and Diana Harryhausen Foundation, and was also behind the BBC’s critically acclaimed documentary series Sofa Surfers, which explored childhood homelessness, and the BAFTA-nominated film My Life: Karate Kids, which tackled issues of bullying among disabled children.
Den of Geek: You’ve been involved with preserving the legacy of the late Ray Harryhausen, and your first book through Titan was about some of his work. You first met him at film school in the 80s?
John Walsh: That’s right.
- 1/21/2021
- by Kirsten Howard
- Den of Geek
Arrow jumps into the 4K Ultra HD bracket with a knockout 40th anniversary presentation of this campy, music-filled and incredibly colorful Dino De Laurentiis spectacle. The impressive package has an endless catalog of extras, plus a second Blu-ray disc with a full-length feature about the film’s one-hit-wonder star Sam J. Jones. Buyers beware — no backup Blu-ray disc of the feature is included. In every other respect, “Go! Flash! Go!”
Flash Gordon
4K Ultra HD with Hdr
Arrow Video
1980 / Color / 2:35 widescreen / 112 min. / Street Date August 18, 2020 / 40.26 (Amazon)
Starring: Sam J. Jones, Melody Anderson, Max von Sydow, Topol, Ornella Muti, Timothy Dalton, Brian Blessed, Peter Wyngarde, Mariangela Melato, Deep Roy.
Cinematography: Gilbert Taylor
Production Designer: Danilo Donati
Film Editor: Malcolm Cooke
Original Music: Howard Blake
Written by Michael Allin & Lorenzo Semple Jr. from characters by Alex Raymond
Produced by Dino De Laurentiis
Directed by Mike Hodges
First things first: a lot...
Flash Gordon
4K Ultra HD with Hdr
Arrow Video
1980 / Color / 2:35 widescreen / 112 min. / Street Date August 18, 2020 / 40.26 (Amazon)
Starring: Sam J. Jones, Melody Anderson, Max von Sydow, Topol, Ornella Muti, Timothy Dalton, Brian Blessed, Peter Wyngarde, Mariangela Melato, Deep Roy.
Cinematography: Gilbert Taylor
Production Designer: Danilo Donati
Film Editor: Malcolm Cooke
Original Music: Howard Blake
Written by Michael Allin & Lorenzo Semple Jr. from characters by Alex Raymond
Produced by Dino De Laurentiis
Directed by Mike Hodges
First things first: a lot...
- 9/8/2020
- by Glenn Erickson
- Trailers from Hell
Stars: Sam J. Jones, Topol, Max von Sydow, Melody Anderson, Ornella Muti, Timothy Dalton, Brian Blessed, Peter Wyngarde, Mariangela Melato, Richard O’Brien | Written by Lorenzo Semple Jr. | Directed by Mike Hodges
If you are a movie geek, just knowing that a movie is produced by Dino De Laurentiis is a sign that the movie is usually worth your attention. Flash Gordon though is also a film that doesn’t just need that association, it instead stands on its own; and while it may not be Star Wars, it definitely has a place in the hearts of science fiction fans.
Finding himself kidnapped by Dr. Hans Zarkov (Topol), Flash Gordon (Sam J. Jones) and friend Dale Arden (Melody Anderson) find themselves travelling to the planed Mongo. When arriving they find themselves fighting the tyrannical Emporer Ming (Max von Sydow) not only to save Earth, but maybe even the entire universe.
Flash Gordon...
If you are a movie geek, just knowing that a movie is produced by Dino De Laurentiis is a sign that the movie is usually worth your attention. Flash Gordon though is also a film that doesn’t just need that association, it instead stands on its own; and while it may not be Star Wars, it definitely has a place in the hearts of science fiction fans.
Finding himself kidnapped by Dr. Hans Zarkov (Topol), Flash Gordon (Sam J. Jones) and friend Dale Arden (Melody Anderson) find themselves travelling to the planed Mongo. When arriving they find themselves fighting the tyrannical Emporer Ming (Max von Sydow) not only to save Earth, but maybe even the entire universe.
Flash Gordon...
- 8/20/2020
- by Paul Metcalf
- Nerdly
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