After you’ve been a late-night comedy writer grinding out 80 to 100 monologue jokes a day to the point where you feel worn down to a gibbering brain stem, what do you do?
If you are Stephen Levinson, you join an ad agency in Dayton, Ohio in order to keep you and your family sustained and healthy—and to satisfy that jones to still be funny, you invent a podcast that re-creates blockbuster movies as completely unhinged and likely unpublishable “novelizations,” a la the quickie paperback versions of every iteration of Star Wars that filled drug store shelves in the 70’s and 80’s.
Then you invite other refugees from late night and other comedy-writing venues to join in, recruit an unlikely phalanx of genuinely famous comedy performers to do the “narrating” of chapters of your faux novels, and you end up with a funny and buzzy comedy podcast called “The Novelizers.
If you are Stephen Levinson, you join an ad agency in Dayton, Ohio in order to keep you and your family sustained and healthy—and to satisfy that jones to still be funny, you invent a podcast that re-creates blockbuster movies as completely unhinged and likely unpublishable “novelizations,” a la the quickie paperback versions of every iteration of Star Wars that filled drug store shelves in the 70’s and 80’s.
Then you invite other refugees from late night and other comedy-writing venues to join in, recruit an unlikely phalanx of genuinely famous comedy performers to do the “narrating” of chapters of your faux novels, and you end up with a funny and buzzy comedy podcast called “The Novelizers.
- 4/22/2024
- by Bill Carter
- LateNighter
Exclusive: Former USC football-turned convicted global drug kingpin, Owen Hanson, has been released early from a federal prison term of 21 years, and is on his way to transitional housing in Long Beach, CA, Deadline has learned per his attorney Mark F. Adams. Hanson is the subject of an Amazon Sports docuseries that’s being produced by Mark Wahlberg’s Unrealistic Ideas, which Deadline first told you about. Hanson’s release, which becomes official in June 26, 2025, should make for great fodder for this docuseries directed by Jody McVeigh-Schultz, and produced by Adam Ridley, Wahlberg, Stephen Levinson and Archie Gips’ Unrealistic Ideas.
Hanson was sentenced in late 2017 after being in arrested in September 2015. He’s served slightly less than seven years in a federal prison located in Englewood, Co.
Hanson’s drug-dealing career boomed from selling recreational drugs and steroids to teammates in college during the early aughts to an empire that spanned U.
Hanson was sentenced in late 2017 after being in arrested in September 2015. He’s served slightly less than seven years in a federal prison located in Englewood, Co.
Hanson’s drug-dealing career boomed from selling recreational drugs and steroids to teammates in college during the early aughts to an empire that spanned U.
- 3/18/2024
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Let me state right out that I am a sucker for dog movies. I still can’t get over My Dog Skip. I learned valuable lifelong lessons from Old Yeller. I consider Lassie a personal friend. I took selfies at the Oscar nominees luncheon with Messi, the French border collie I was pushing for Best Supporting Actor from Anatomy of a Fall. So yes, I am probably the right audience for the latest in the genre, Arthur the King, and its title star.
However, for about the first 55 minutes or so, Arthur the King is hardly about the dog at all, but rather the extreme physical competition of adventure racing, most particularly the 2018 World Championship taking place in the Dominican Republic. The focus is on frustrated competitor Michael Light (Mark Wahlberg), who never never won the big prize and is determined not to give up. This time he has put...
However, for about the first 55 minutes or so, Arthur the King is hardly about the dog at all, but rather the extreme physical competition of adventure racing, most particularly the 2018 World Championship taking place in the Dominican Republic. The focus is on frustrated competitor Michael Light (Mark Wahlberg), who never never won the big prize and is determined not to give up. This time he has put...
- 3/13/2024
- by Pete Hammond
- Deadline Film + TV
Best Friends Animal Society, a leading national animal welfare organization working to end the killing of cats and dogs in America’s shelters by 2025, and Lionsgate just released a new public service announcement (PSA) entitled "Best Friends Animal Society X “Arthur the King’s” Ukai & Mark Wahlberg."
You can watch the video here.
Sharing the message ahead of Arthur the King’s film release, the film stars Mark Wahlberg and Ukai spread awareness for the incredible dogs and cats in shelters nationwide waiting to find loving homes of their very own. Throughout the PSA, faces of shelter animals looking for loving homes, dogs and cats adventuring with human caregivers, and clips and audio from the upcoming film making a dynamic case for pet adoption.
“Arthur the King is the inspiring true story about a dog who overcame overwhelming adversity to find his person and a loving home,” said Greta Palmer,...
You can watch the video here.
Sharing the message ahead of Arthur the King’s film release, the film stars Mark Wahlberg and Ukai spread awareness for the incredible dogs and cats in shelters nationwide waiting to find loving homes of their very own. Throughout the PSA, faces of shelter animals looking for loving homes, dogs and cats adventuring with human caregivers, and clips and audio from the upcoming film making a dynamic case for pet adoption.
“Arthur the King is the inspiring true story about a dog who overcame overwhelming adversity to find his person and a loving home,” said Greta Palmer,...
- 2/9/2024
- Look to the Stars
The Family Plan Movie Review Rating:
Star Cast: Mark Wahlberg, Michelle Monaghan, Zoe Margaret Colletti, Van Crosby, Said Taghmaoui
Director: Simon Cellan Jones
Producer: David Ellison, Dana Goldberg, Don Granger, Mark Wahlberg, Stephen Levinson
The Family Plan Movie Review Out! (Picture Credit: IMDb)
What’s Good: Mark Wahlberg‘s performance is a standout, seamlessly transitioning between action and comedy. The chemistry between Wahlberg and Michelle Monaghan is palpable, contributing to the film’s likability. The concept of a family thrust into unexpected action adds a unique twist to the narrative.
What’s Bad: The film suffers from tonal inconsistencies, struggling to balance its comedic and action elements. Excessive and frenetic editing in the action scenes hampers their effectiveness. The script, while introducing entertaining concepts, falls short in execution, leaving some subplots feeling aimless and disconnected.
Loo Break: The poorly edited action sequences might provide a suitable moment for a quick bathroom break,...
Star Cast: Mark Wahlberg, Michelle Monaghan, Zoe Margaret Colletti, Van Crosby, Said Taghmaoui
Director: Simon Cellan Jones
Producer: David Ellison, Dana Goldberg, Don Granger, Mark Wahlberg, Stephen Levinson
The Family Plan Movie Review Out! (Picture Credit: IMDb)
What’s Good: Mark Wahlberg‘s performance is a standout, seamlessly transitioning between action and comedy. The chemistry between Wahlberg and Michelle Monaghan is palpable, contributing to the film’s likability. The concept of a family thrust into unexpected action adds a unique twist to the narrative.
What’s Bad: The film suffers from tonal inconsistencies, struggling to balance its comedic and action elements. Excessive and frenetic editing in the action scenes hampers their effectiveness. The script, while introducing entertaining concepts, falls short in execution, leaving some subplots feeling aimless and disconnected.
Loo Break: The poorly edited action sequences might provide a suitable moment for a quick bathroom break,...
- 12/15/2023
- by Hari P N
- KoiMoi
Exclusive: The Unrealistic Ideas documentary about the FBI’s takedown of USC football player-turned-drug kingpin Owen Hanson we first told you about is currently filming as a docuseries for Amazon Sports.
Jody McVeigh-Schultz is directing and Adam Ridley is producing for Mark Wahlberg, Stephen Levinson and Archie Gips’ Unrealistic Ideas, we’ve been told.
Hanson began dealing recreational drugs and steroids to teammates in college during the early 2000s, ultimately building a violent empire that spanned U.S., Central and South America and Australia. Arrested in September 2015 and sentenced in late 2017 to more than 21 years in federal prison, Hanson was ordered to pay a $5M criminal forfeiture, which included $100K in gold coins, luxury vehicles, jewelry, vacation homes, a sailboat and interests in several businesses. The FBI teamed with the New South Wales Police Force in Australia to nab Hanson and uncovered an illegal sports-gambling, money-laundering and drug-trafficking enterprise of...
Jody McVeigh-Schultz is directing and Adam Ridley is producing for Mark Wahlberg, Stephen Levinson and Archie Gips’ Unrealistic Ideas, we’ve been told.
Hanson began dealing recreational drugs and steroids to teammates in college during the early 2000s, ultimately building a violent empire that spanned U.S., Central and South America and Australia. Arrested in September 2015 and sentenced in late 2017 to more than 21 years in federal prison, Hanson was ordered to pay a $5M criminal forfeiture, which included $100K in gold coins, luxury vehicles, jewelry, vacation homes, a sailboat and interests in several businesses. The FBI teamed with the New South Wales Police Force in Australia to nab Hanson and uncovered an illegal sports-gambling, money-laundering and drug-trafficking enterprise of...
- 11/29/2023
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
The official trailer for Arthur the King has been released. The film starring Mark Wahlberg will be in theaters on March 22, 2024!
Synopsis: Over the course of ten days and 435 miles, an unbreakable bond is forged between pro adventure racer Michael Light (Mark Wahlberg) and a scrappy street dog companion dubbed Arthur. Based on an incredible true story, Arthur the King follows Light, desperate for one last chance to win, as he convinces a sponsor to back him and a team of athletes for the Adventure Racing World Championship in the Dominican Republic. As the team is pushed to their outer limits of endurance in the race, Arthur redefines what victory, loyalty and friendship truly mean.
About The Film
Genre: Adventure Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Simu Liu, Juliet Rylance, Nathalie Emmanuel, Ali Suliman, with Bear Grylls as Himself, and Paul Guilfoyle Director: Simon Cellan Jones Screenplay: Michael Brandt Producer: Tucker Tooley, Mark Canton,...
Synopsis: Over the course of ten days and 435 miles, an unbreakable bond is forged between pro adventure racer Michael Light (Mark Wahlberg) and a scrappy street dog companion dubbed Arthur. Based on an incredible true story, Arthur the King follows Light, desperate for one last chance to win, as he convinces a sponsor to back him and a team of athletes for the Adventure Racing World Championship in the Dominican Republic. As the team is pushed to their outer limits of endurance in the race, Arthur redefines what victory, loyalty and friendship truly mean.
About The Film
Genre: Adventure Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Simu Liu, Juliet Rylance, Nathalie Emmanuel, Ali Suliman, with Bear Grylls as Himself, and Paul Guilfoyle Director: Simon Cellan Jones Screenplay: Michael Brandt Producer: Tucker Tooley, Mark Canton,...
- 11/16/2023
- by Editor
- CinemaNerdz
The official trailer for The Family Plan has been released by Apple Original Films. The action/comedy starring Mark Wahlberg and Michelle Monaghan will premiere on Apple TV+ on December 15, 2023!
Synopsis: Dan Morgan (Mark Wahlberg) loves his quiet suburban life as a devoted husband, father of three and successful car salesman. But that’s only half the story. Decades earlier, he was an elite government assassin tasked with eliminating the world’s deadliest threats. When enemies from his past track him down, Dan packs his unsuspecting wife (Michelle Monaghan), angsty teen daughter, pro-gamer teen son and adorable 10-month-old baby into their minivan and takes off on an impromptu cross-country road trip to Las Vegas. Determined to protect his family — while treating them to the vacation of a lifetime — Dan must put his long-dormant skills into action, without revealing his true identity.
About The Film
Genre: Action, Comedy Starring: Mark Wahlberg,...
Synopsis: Dan Morgan (Mark Wahlberg) loves his quiet suburban life as a devoted husband, father of three and successful car salesman. But that’s only half the story. Decades earlier, he was an elite government assassin tasked with eliminating the world’s deadliest threats. When enemies from his past track him down, Dan packs his unsuspecting wife (Michelle Monaghan), angsty teen daughter, pro-gamer teen son and adorable 10-month-old baby into their minivan and takes off on an impromptu cross-country road trip to Las Vegas. Determined to protect his family — while treating them to the vacation of a lifetime — Dan must put his long-dormant skills into action, without revealing his true identity.
About The Film
Genre: Action, Comedy Starring: Mark Wahlberg,...
- 11/10/2023
- by Editor
- CinemaNerdz
Remember Marky Mark? If you’re under a certain age, probably not, and Mark Wahlberg has some fun with that notion in the new trailer for the upcoming Apple TV+ action-comedy The Family Plan.
In the film, Wahlberg plays a nice-guy suburban husband and father whose kids have no idea that he used to be a government assassin. The situation provides ample opportunity for lots of jokes about how incredulous the children are regarding their uncool dad’s formerly cool persona.
And if that’s not enough of a wink to viewers, Wahlberg actually does some rapping in the comedy. Watch the trailer above to see how director Simon Cellan Jones and writer David Coggeshall work that into the story.
Here’s the official synopsis: Dan Morgan (Wahlberg) loves his quiet suburban life as a devoted husband, father of three and successful car salesman. But that’s only half the story.
In the film, Wahlberg plays a nice-guy suburban husband and father whose kids have no idea that he used to be a government assassin. The situation provides ample opportunity for lots of jokes about how incredulous the children are regarding their uncool dad’s formerly cool persona.
And if that’s not enough of a wink to viewers, Wahlberg actually does some rapping in the comedy. Watch the trailer above to see how director Simon Cellan Jones and writer David Coggeshall work that into the story.
Here’s the official synopsis: Dan Morgan (Wahlberg) loves his quiet suburban life as a devoted husband, father of three and successful car salesman. But that’s only half the story.
- 11/6/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
In The Family Plan, a movie coming to Apple TV+ on Dec. 15, Mark Wahlberg transforms into James Bond in a minivan.
The streamer released the action-comedy film trailer Monday, which follows the ex-assassin-turned-father of three’s sedentary lifestyle in suburbia. Prior to becoming a father to an angsty teen daughter, gaming-prodigy son, and squealing 10-month-old, Dan (Wahlberg) was an elite government assassin responsible for eliminating global threats.
In the trailer, his unsuspecting wife, played by Michelle Monaghan, yearns for a more adventurous life. The next clip cuts to Dan fighting...
The streamer released the action-comedy film trailer Monday, which follows the ex-assassin-turned-father of three’s sedentary lifestyle in suburbia. Prior to becoming a father to an angsty teen daughter, gaming-prodigy son, and squealing 10-month-old, Dan (Wahlberg) was an elite government assassin responsible for eliminating global threats.
In the trailer, his unsuspecting wife, played by Michelle Monaghan, yearns for a more adventurous life. The next clip cuts to Dan fighting...
- 11/6/2023
- by Kalia Richardson
- Rollingstone.com
Mark Wahlberg plays a quiet suburban dad who takes his family on a road trip to Las Vegas to protect them after his cover as a former elite government assassin is blown in the trailer for The Family Plan, which dropped on Monday ahead of a Apple TV+ bow for the action comedy on Dec. 15.
Wahlberg stars as Dan Morgan, a father who happily changes diapers and sells cars, until he is tracked down by former enemies and has to pack his wife, played by Michelle Monaghan, teen son and daughter and 10-month-old baby into their minivan for a surprise cross-country trip.
“Nothing brings a family together like a road trip,” Dan tells his unsuspecting wife. But once on the road, he finally tells his family their lives are in danger.
“You’re like James Bond in a minivan?” his upset wife questions at one point. “I love that minivan,...
Wahlberg stars as Dan Morgan, a father who happily changes diapers and sells cars, until he is tracked down by former enemies and has to pack his wife, played by Michelle Monaghan, teen son and daughter and 10-month-old baby into their minivan for a surprise cross-country trip.
“Nothing brings a family together like a road trip,” Dan tells his unsuspecting wife. But once on the road, he finally tells his family their lives are in danger.
“You’re like James Bond in a minivan?” his upset wife questions at one point. “I love that minivan,...
- 11/6/2023
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
One of HBO's most successful comedies of the last decade married Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson with football in the form of "Ballers." Given that the first love of the wrestler-turned-actor was football — he had aspirations of playing in the NFL — it was a good marriage, with the show running for five seasons on the premium cable network. The series came to an end in 2019, concluding the story of financial manager Spencer Strasmore. But why did HBO cancel the show, which featured one of the biggest stars on the planet?
The show sees Johnson playing Spencer, a retired NFL superstar who is trying to make it as a financial manager for current players as they navigate life off the field. The core cast also included the likes of Rob Corddry (Joe Krutel) and John David Washington (Ricky Jerret). Recently, "Ballers" exploded in popularity on Netflix as HBO licensed the rights to...
The show sees Johnson playing Spencer, a retired NFL superstar who is trying to make it as a financial manager for current players as they navigate life off the field. The core cast also included the likes of Rob Corddry (Joe Krutel) and John David Washington (Ricky Jerret). Recently, "Ballers" exploded in popularity on Netflix as HBO licensed the rights to...
- 9/14/2023
- by Ryan Scott
- Slash Film
As Warner Bros. Discovery rethinks its streaming and licensing strategy, the studio has begun to license out several of its HBO and Max properties to outside streaming services. Among these shows is Ballers, the sports comedy drama starring and executive produced by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, which ran for five seasons from 2015 to 2019. Now available to stream on Netflix, Ballers has enjoyed a resurgence in popularity thanks to the change in platforms, opening up the show to new, bigger audiences. Ballers has the distinction of being led by Johnson in his most nuanced and well-rounded role to date, providing a surprising amount of vulnerability for the global superstar.
Created by Stephen Levinson, Ballers follows Spencer Strasmore (Johnson), a former NFL player who parlays his life experiences to become a financial manager to current NFL athletes. As Spencer expands his business into a growing empire within the professional sports industry, he...
Created by Stephen Levinson, Ballers follows Spencer Strasmore (Johnson), a former NFL player who parlays his life experiences to become a financial manager to current NFL athletes. As Spencer expands his business into a growing empire within the professional sports industry, he...
- 8/21/2023
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
Boxer Oscar De La Hoya opens up and shares his personal struggles for the first time in HBO’s The Golden Boy. In the first trailer for the two-part documentary, the Olympic gold medalist reveals the last 45 years of his life have been pretty dark, and now he’s ready to address his true emotions and lay out his story without any sugarcoating.
The Golden Boy premieres on HBO on July 24, 2023 at 9pm Et/Pt, followed by part two on July 25.
Fernando Villena directed the documentary and Mark Wahlberg, Stephen Levinson, Archie Gips, Mario Lopez, Jeffrey Stearns, and David Wendell executive produce. Additional executive producers include HBO’s Nancy Abraham, Lisa Heller, and Bentley Weiner.
The Plot:
By the age of 19, Oscar De La Hoya was an Olympic boxing gold medalist, a multi-world title-winning professional boxer, a hometown hero and a role model to his Mexican-American community in East Los Angeles.
The Golden Boy premieres on HBO on July 24, 2023 at 9pm Et/Pt, followed by part two on July 25.
Fernando Villena directed the documentary and Mark Wahlberg, Stephen Levinson, Archie Gips, Mario Lopez, Jeffrey Stearns, and David Wendell executive produce. Additional executive producers include HBO’s Nancy Abraham, Lisa Heller, and Bentley Weiner.
The Plot:
By the age of 19, Oscar De La Hoya was an Olympic boxing gold medalist, a multi-world title-winning professional boxer, a hometown hero and a role model to his Mexican-American community in East Los Angeles.
- 6/9/2023
- by Rebecca Murray
- Showbiz Junkies
HBO Original two-part documentary The Golden Boy, directed by award-winning filmmaker Fernando Villena (HBO’s “Dear Rider” and “Any One of Us”), debuts Monday, July 24 (9:00 p.m. Et/Pt), followed by part two on July 25 at the same time on HBO. Both episodes will be available to stream on Max beginning July 24. The Golden Boy will celebrate its world premiere at the 2023 Tribeca Festival.
Synopsis: By the age of 19, Oscar De La Hoya was an Olympic boxing gold medalist, a multi-world title-winning professional boxer, a hometown hero and a role model to his Mexican-American community in East Los Angeles. Nicknamed “The Golden Boy,” De La Hoya – with his good looks, electric charisma, and heartfelt story of winning Olympic gold for his dying mother — rocketed to national prominence as a superstar both in and outside the ring. But all was not what it appeared to be behind that polished facade.
Synopsis: By the age of 19, Oscar De La Hoya was an Olympic boxing gold medalist, a multi-world title-winning professional boxer, a hometown hero and a role model to his Mexican-American community in East Los Angeles. Nicknamed “The Golden Boy,” De La Hoya – with his good looks, electric charisma, and heartfelt story of winning Olympic gold for his dying mother — rocketed to national prominence as a superstar both in and outside the ring. But all was not what it appeared to be behind that polished facade.
- 6/9/2023
- by TV Shows Martin Cid Magazine
- Martin Cid - TV
Exclusive: Wheelhouse DNA, Canada’s Frederator Studios and social media comedy star Adam Waheed are joining forces for an animated comedy series.
We hear the unnamed series is now in development ahead of production, marking the first partnership between Wheelhouse DNA and Frederator and series writing and starring debut for Waheed, who’s better known as Adam W.
Set in ancient Egypt where the gods are real, aliens built the pyramids and the afterlife exists, the 10-episode series follows a lovable royal buffoon (Waheed) who finds himself suddenly thrust on the throne.
Waheed co-created the series with Spencer Strasmore, and the pair are now developing a slate of digital, TV and film projects. Strasmore was previously a producer and development exec at Mark Wahlberg and Stephen Levinson’s production company Unrealistic Ideas.
Waheed is one of social media’s biggest comedy stars, with an accumulated 11.5 billion views in 2022 alone.
We hear the unnamed series is now in development ahead of production, marking the first partnership between Wheelhouse DNA and Frederator and series writing and starring debut for Waheed, who’s better known as Adam W.
Set in ancient Egypt where the gods are real, aliens built the pyramids and the afterlife exists, the 10-episode series follows a lovable royal buffoon (Waheed) who finds himself suddenly thrust on the throne.
Waheed co-created the series with Spencer Strasmore, and the pair are now developing a slate of digital, TV and film projects. Strasmore was previously a producer and development exec at Mark Wahlberg and Stephen Levinson’s production company Unrealistic Ideas.
Waheed is one of social media’s biggest comedy stars, with an accumulated 11.5 billion views in 2022 alone.
- 5/16/2023
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Fitness personality and television icon Jack Lalanne is getting the biopic treatment, both in nonfiction and narrative forms.
Mark Wahlberg and his Unrealistic Ideas banner will partner with Wonderfilm Media and Lalanne’s widow, Elaine, and the Lalanne family on a documentary feature and a narrative film about the fitness pioneer.
Before wellness was christened an industry and fitness deemed a lifestyle, Lalanne was an exercise and nutrition guru. After opening a gym in Oakland in the 1930s (often credited as the nation’s first fitness club), he began to evangelize the benefits of personal health, later hosting the fitness TV show The Jack Lalanne Show from 1951 to 1985. A longtime bodybuilder, Lalanne also became synonymous with his feats of strength, including, at 60 years old, swimming to Alcatraz while handcuffed.
“It doesn’t matter where you go, there is a health club and it all started with Jack Lalanne,” said bodybuilder...
Mark Wahlberg and his Unrealistic Ideas banner will partner with Wonderfilm Media and Lalanne’s widow, Elaine, and the Lalanne family on a documentary feature and a narrative film about the fitness pioneer.
Before wellness was christened an industry and fitness deemed a lifestyle, Lalanne was an exercise and nutrition guru. After opening a gym in Oakland in the 1930s (often credited as the nation’s first fitness club), he began to evangelize the benefits of personal health, later hosting the fitness TV show The Jack Lalanne Show from 1951 to 1985. A longtime bodybuilder, Lalanne also became synonymous with his feats of strength, including, at 60 years old, swimming to Alcatraz while handcuffed.
“It doesn’t matter where you go, there is a health club and it all started with Jack Lalanne,” said bodybuilder...
- 4/11/2023
- by Mia Galuppo
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Fortune and Mark Wahlberg’s Unrealistic Ideas are getting into the scrum of Ftx projects, planning a doc focused on the relationship between embattled Ftx founder Sam Bankman-Fried and Binance founder and CEO Changpeng “Cz” Zhao, one of Bankman-Fried’s most vocal critics.
The project is described as a “personal examination of the relationship between Sbf, who grew up in a prominent politically connected family of academics and Cz, who came from more modest circumstances having fled from China to Canada with his family when he was twelve. The two became dominant figures in the cryptocurrency scene and developed a unique association that positioned them alternately as allies and rivals. Bankman-Fried sought a high profile for Ftx that hinged on celebrity endorsements and political influence while Zhao focused on a more austere approach to building Binance.”
Bankman-Fried and Zhao both rose to prominence in the cryptocurrency boom and quickly established an adversarial back-and-forth.
The project is described as a “personal examination of the relationship between Sbf, who grew up in a prominent politically connected family of academics and Cz, who came from more modest circumstances having fled from China to Canada with his family when he was twelve. The two became dominant figures in the cryptocurrency scene and developed a unique association that positioned them alternately as allies and rivals. Bankman-Fried sought a high profile for Ftx that hinged on celebrity endorsements and political influence while Zhao focused on a more austere approach to building Binance.”
Bankman-Fried and Zhao both rose to prominence in the cryptocurrency boom and quickly established an adversarial back-and-forth.
- 2/1/2023
- by Mia Galuppo
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: Sony Pictures Television is putting the limited series Jackpot into early development, inspired by the hardscrabble life of Philly high-stakes gambler-turned-fbi confidential source Rj Cipriani (aka Robin Hood 702), the lynchpin in taking down a multimillion-dollar drug ring. Nicholas Stoller and his Stoller Global Solutions partner Conor Welch, as well as Jamie Canniffe, are executive producing with Cipriani.
Nicholas Stoller
A gambler known for giving his winnings to the less fortunate, Cipriani’s chance encounter with an ex-girlfriend plunged him unwittingly into a money-laundering scheme that ultimately led to one of the biggest cases in FBI history leading to over 1,000 arrests around the world. The series follows the gambler, known to the FBI as “Jackpot,” as he navigates an insane web of characters who may just kill him and his family unless he can bring them down first. The series is billed as being part Donnie Brasco and part Ocean...
Nicholas Stoller
A gambler known for giving his winnings to the less fortunate, Cipriani’s chance encounter with an ex-girlfriend plunged him unwittingly into a money-laundering scheme that ultimately led to one of the biggest cases in FBI history leading to over 1,000 arrests around the world. The series follows the gambler, known to the FBI as “Jackpot,” as he navigates an insane web of characters who may just kill him and his family unless he can bring them down first. The series is billed as being part Donnie Brasco and part Ocean...
- 1/30/2023
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Maggie Q, Zoe Colletti, Van Crosby and Ciaran Hinds have rounded out the cast of Apple Original Films and Skydance Media’s action comedy The Family Plan starring Mark Wahlberg and Michelle Monaghan. Simon Cellan Jones, who recently collaborated with Wahlberg on Arthur the King, will direct.
Written by David Coggeshall, The Family Plan tells the story of a suburban dad who must take his family on the run when his past catches up with him. Municipal Pictures’ Stephen Levinson and Wahlberg will produce with Skydance’s David Ellison, Dana Goldberg and Don Granger.
Maggie was most recently seen in the Lionsgate action thriller The Protege opposite Michael Keaton. She is repped by CAA. Colletti was most recently seen in Hulu’s Only Murders in the Building. She is repped by Cesd, Industry Entertainment and The Nord Group.
Hinds is coming his Oscar-nominated performance in Kenneth Branagh’s Belfast.
Written by David Coggeshall, The Family Plan tells the story of a suburban dad who must take his family on the run when his past catches up with him. Municipal Pictures’ Stephen Levinson and Wahlberg will produce with Skydance’s David Ellison, Dana Goldberg and Don Granger.
Maggie was most recently seen in the Lionsgate action thriller The Protege opposite Michael Keaton. She is repped by CAA. Colletti was most recently seen in Hulu’s Only Murders in the Building. She is repped by Cesd, Industry Entertainment and The Nord Group.
Hinds is coming his Oscar-nominated performance in Kenneth Branagh’s Belfast.
- 11/18/2022
- by Justin Kroll
- Deadline Film + TV
Whether it’s a way to give a small movie a second chance in theaters or an opportunity to capitalize on a particularly quiet time at the box office, Sony is offering a surprise re-release to the Mark Wahlberg film “Father Stu” this December, where it will now open re-cut as a PG-13 version.
The new film is called “Father Stu: Reborn.” While the original film — released this April ahead of the Easter holiday — was dinged with an R-rating for “language throughout,” the new cut still features “language, an accident scene, sexual references, some violence and smoking.” A perfect evening for the whole family.
“Father Stu: Reborn” will open in theaters December 9, and it’s a choice time for Sony to take a chance on wringing a few extra dollars out of the story, as there are no other major studio releases debuting that weekend. It will open opposite Sam...
The new film is called “Father Stu: Reborn.” While the original film — released this April ahead of the Easter holiday — was dinged with an R-rating for “language throughout,” the new cut still features “language, an accident scene, sexual references, some violence and smoking.” A perfect evening for the whole family.
“Father Stu: Reborn” will open in theaters December 9, and it’s a choice time for Sony to take a chance on wringing a few extra dollars out of the story, as there are no other major studio releases debuting that weekend. It will open opposite Sam...
- 11/2/2022
- by Brian Welk
- Indiewire
Sony is bringing a PG-13 version of “Father Stu” titled “Father Stu: Reborn” back to life – and theaters – on Dec. 9.
The Columbia Pictures and Mark Wahlberg religious drama was originally rated R by the MPAA for “language throughout.” According to a spokesperson for Sony, “Reborn” will qualify for a PG-13 rating based on its toned-down language as well as the omission of an accident scene, sexual references, some violence and smoking.
The recut version will not feature any reshot or additional material.
Based on a true story, “Father Stu” revolves around amateur boxer Stuart Long (Wahlberg) who moves to Los Angeles when an injury cuts short his fledgling career. After he begins attending church in hopes of courting a Sunday school teacher, Stu has an epiphany that he is destined to become a Catholic priest.
The film was written and directed by Rosalind Ross and co-stars Mel Gibson, Jacki Weaver and Teresa Ruiz.
The Columbia Pictures and Mark Wahlberg religious drama was originally rated R by the MPAA for “language throughout.” According to a spokesperson for Sony, “Reborn” will qualify for a PG-13 rating based on its toned-down language as well as the omission of an accident scene, sexual references, some violence and smoking.
The recut version will not feature any reshot or additional material.
Based on a true story, “Father Stu” revolves around amateur boxer Stuart Long (Wahlberg) who moves to Los Angeles when an injury cuts short his fledgling career. After he begins attending church in hopes of courting a Sunday school teacher, Stu has an epiphany that he is destined to become a Catholic priest.
The film was written and directed by Rosalind Ross and co-stars Mel Gibson, Jacki Weaver and Teresa Ruiz.
- 11/2/2022
- by Harper Lambert
- The Wrap
Sony has moved Love Again, the romantic comedy starring Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Sam Heughan and Celine Dion, to May 12, 2023. It previously had a released date of February 10.
Logline for the Jim Strouse-directed movie: What if a random text message led to the love of your life? Mira Ray, dealing with the loss of her fiancé, sends a series of romantic texts to his old cell phone number…not realizing the number was reassigned to Rob Burns’ new work phone. A journalist, Rob is captivated by the honesty in the beautifully confessional texts. When he’s assigned to write a profile of megastar Celine Dion (playing herself in her first film role), he enlists her help in figuring out how to meet Mira in person…and win her heart.
Dion also has several songs in the film.
The pic, squarely aimed at women, is dated for Mother’s Day weekend...
Logline for the Jim Strouse-directed movie: What if a random text message led to the love of your life? Mira Ray, dealing with the loss of her fiancé, sends a series of romantic texts to his old cell phone number…not realizing the number was reassigned to Rob Burns’ new work phone. A journalist, Rob is captivated by the honesty in the beautifully confessional texts. When he’s assigned to write a profile of megastar Celine Dion (playing herself in her first film role), he enlists her help in figuring out how to meet Mira in person…and win her heart.
Dion also has several songs in the film.
The pic, squarely aimed at women, is dated for Mother’s Day weekend...
- 11/2/2022
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Saïd Taghmaoui (Wonder Woman) will appear alongside Mark Wahlberg and Michelle Monaghan in the action-comedy The Family Plan from Apple Original Films and Skydance.
The film written by David Coggeshall (Prey) tells the story of a suburban dad who must take his family on the run when his past catches up to him. Simon Cellan Jones (Arthur the King) is directing, with Municipal Pictures’ Stephen Levinson and Wahlberg producing alongside Skydance’s David Ellison, Dana Goldberg and Don Granger.
Taghmaoui recently wrapped Brad Furman’s action-thriller Tin Soldier opposite Jamie Foxx, Robert De Niro and Scott Eastwood, most recently appearing opposite Ralph Fiennes and Jessica Chastain in Vertical Entertainment and Roadside Attractions’ drama The Forgiven. Past credits for the actor on the film side include both Wonder Woman titles with Gal Gadot, as well as John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum, American Hustle, G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra and The Kite Runner.
The film written by David Coggeshall (Prey) tells the story of a suburban dad who must take his family on the run when his past catches up to him. Simon Cellan Jones (Arthur the King) is directing, with Municipal Pictures’ Stephen Levinson and Wahlberg producing alongside Skydance’s David Ellison, Dana Goldberg and Don Granger.
Taghmaoui recently wrapped Brad Furman’s action-thriller Tin Soldier opposite Jamie Foxx, Robert De Niro and Scott Eastwood, most recently appearing opposite Ralph Fiennes and Jessica Chastain in Vertical Entertainment and Roadside Attractions’ drama The Forgiven. Past credits for the actor on the film side include both Wonder Woman titles with Gal Gadot, as well as John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum, American Hustle, G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra and The Kite Runner.
- 10/31/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Apple Original Films and Skydance Media’s The Family Plan is thrilled to welcome Michelle Monaghan to the cast of the upcoming film. The Gone Baby Gone and Mission: Impossible – Fallout star will co-star alongside Mark Wahlberg in the action-comedy helmed by Simon Cellan Jones and written by David Coggeshall.
The plot for The Family Plan revolves around a suburban father who takes his family on the run after his past comes back to haunt him. Monaghan’s role is unconfirmed, though she’ll likely play Wahlberg’s wife.
Monaghan is no stranger to action after appearing in films like The Bourne Supremacy and several movies in the Mission: Impossible franchise, including Mission: Impossible III, Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol, and Mission: Impossible – Fallout. She played Maggie Hart, the ex-wife of Detective Martin Hart, in the first season of HBO’s True Detective and Eva Geller in the Netflix TV series Messiah.
The plot for The Family Plan revolves around a suburban father who takes his family on the run after his past comes back to haunt him. Monaghan’s role is unconfirmed, though she’ll likely play Wahlberg’s wife.
Monaghan is no stranger to action after appearing in films like The Bourne Supremacy and several movies in the Mission: Impossible franchise, including Mission: Impossible III, Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol, and Mission: Impossible – Fallout. She played Maggie Hart, the ex-wife of Detective Martin Hart, in the first season of HBO’s True Detective and Eva Geller in the Netflix TV series Messiah.
- 10/19/2022
- by Steve Seigh
- JoBlo.com
Michelle Monaghan has signed on to co-star alongside Mark Wahlberg in Apple and Skydance’s new action-comedy film “The Family Plan.”
Wahlberg is set to produce through his Municipal Pictures banner, with Simon Cellan Jones directing from a script by David Coggeshall. The film follows a suburban father who goes on the run with his family when his past catches up to him.
“The Family Plan” is also produced by Municipal Pictures’ Stephen Levinson, along with Skydance’s David Ellison, Dana Goldberg and Don Granger.
Also Read:
Apple Acquires Thriller ‘The Gorge’ With Miles Teller, Anya Taylor-Joy Joins Cast
“The Family Plan” marks the second collaboration between Wahlberg and Jones after “Arthur the King,” currently in post-production at Lionsgate. Coggeshall is also at work on “Matchbox” for Skydance and Mattel.
Monaghan most recently starred in the Sundance prizewinner “Nanny” and Netflix thriller series “Echoes,” which claimed the No. 1 spot on...
Wahlberg is set to produce through his Municipal Pictures banner, with Simon Cellan Jones directing from a script by David Coggeshall. The film follows a suburban father who goes on the run with his family when his past catches up to him.
“The Family Plan” is also produced by Municipal Pictures’ Stephen Levinson, along with Skydance’s David Ellison, Dana Goldberg and Don Granger.
Also Read:
Apple Acquires Thriller ‘The Gorge’ With Miles Teller, Anya Taylor-Joy Joins Cast
“The Family Plan” marks the second collaboration between Wahlberg and Jones after “Arthur the King,” currently in post-production at Lionsgate. Coggeshall is also at work on “Matchbox” for Skydance and Mattel.
Monaghan most recently starred in the Sundance prizewinner “Nanny” and Netflix thriller series “Echoes,” which claimed the No. 1 spot on...
- 10/19/2022
- by Harper Lambert
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Michelle Monaghan is set to co-star opposite Mark Wahlberg in Apple Original Films and Skydance Media’s action comedy The Family Plan. Simon Cellan Jones, who recently collaborated with Wahlberg on Arthur the King, will direct.
Written by David Coggeshall, The Family Plan tells the story of a suburban dad who must take his family on the run when his past catches up with him. Municipal Pictures’ Stephen Levinson and Wahlberg will produce with Skydance’s David Ellison, Dana Goldberg and Don Granger. While unconfirmed, it’s expected that Monaghan would play Wahlberg’s wife.
Monaghan was most recently seen in the Netflix hit series Echoes, which debuted as the streamer’s No. 1 series when it bowed last month. She was also recently seen in the drama Nanny, which premiered at this year’s Sundance Film Festival.
She is repped by CAA, Anonymous Content, and Sloane, Offer, Weber & Dern.
Written by David Coggeshall, The Family Plan tells the story of a suburban dad who must take his family on the run when his past catches up with him. Municipal Pictures’ Stephen Levinson and Wahlberg will produce with Skydance’s David Ellison, Dana Goldberg and Don Granger. While unconfirmed, it’s expected that Monaghan would play Wahlberg’s wife.
Monaghan was most recently seen in the Netflix hit series Echoes, which debuted as the streamer’s No. 1 series when it bowed last month. She was also recently seen in the drama Nanny, which premiered at this year’s Sundance Film Festival.
She is repped by CAA, Anonymous Content, and Sloane, Offer, Weber & Dern.
- 10/19/2022
- by Justin Kroll
- Deadline Film + TV
Netflix’s “Our Man From Jersey,” starring Halle Berry, Mark Wahlberg and J.K. Simmons, is coming close to wrapping its shoot in Croatia and Slovenia, according to Film New Europe.
The film, based on a screenplay by David Guggenheim and Joe Barton, has been described as a “blue-collar James Bond.” Wahlberg plays a down-to-earth construction worker from Jersey, who is thrust into the world of super spies and secret agents when his high-school ex-girlfriend Roxanne (Berry) recruits him on a high-stakes U.S. intelligence mission.
It is directed by Julian Farino, and produced by the U.S.’s Closest to the Hole Productions, owned by Wahlberg. The producers are Wahlberg, Stephen Levinson and Jeff Waxman.
The producers have applied for Croatia’s 25 cash rebate under the working title “The Union,” so the Croatian Audiovisual Center could only confirm a project of such a name was filmed in the country during September.
The film, based on a screenplay by David Guggenheim and Joe Barton, has been described as a “blue-collar James Bond.” Wahlberg plays a down-to-earth construction worker from Jersey, who is thrust into the world of super spies and secret agents when his high-school ex-girlfriend Roxanne (Berry) recruits him on a high-stakes U.S. intelligence mission.
It is directed by Julian Farino, and produced by the U.S.’s Closest to the Hole Productions, owned by Wahlberg. The producers are Wahlberg, Stephen Levinson and Jeff Waxman.
The producers have applied for Croatia’s 25 cash rebate under the working title “The Union,” so the Croatian Audiovisual Center could only confirm a project of such a name was filmed in the country during September.
- 9/26/2022
- by Milena Zajović
- Variety Film + TV
Deadline has reported that Mark Wahlberg is set to star in The Family Plan, a new action-comedy in development from Apple Original Films and Skydance Media.
Set to be directed by Simon Cellan Jones (Arthur the King) and written by David Coggeshall (Orphan: First Kill), The Family Plan will tell the story of a “suburban dad who must take his family on the run when his past catches up to him.” In addition to starring in The Family Plan, Mark Wahlberg will also produce alongside Stephen Levinson, David Ellison, Dana Goldberg, and Don Granger.
Related Me Time trailer pairs Kevin Hart with Mark Wahlberg for an outrageous weekend of debauchery
This won’t be Mark Wahlberg’s first collaboration with Simon Cellan Jones as the actor will also be starring in Arthur the King alongside Simu Liu (Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings). Based on the book Arthur:...
Set to be directed by Simon Cellan Jones (Arthur the King) and written by David Coggeshall (Orphan: First Kill), The Family Plan will tell the story of a “suburban dad who must take his family on the run when his past catches up to him.” In addition to starring in The Family Plan, Mark Wahlberg will also produce alongside Stephen Levinson, David Ellison, Dana Goldberg, and Don Granger.
Related Me Time trailer pairs Kevin Hart with Mark Wahlberg for an outrageous weekend of debauchery
This won’t be Mark Wahlberg’s first collaboration with Simon Cellan Jones as the actor will also be starring in Arthur the King alongside Simu Liu (Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings). Based on the book Arthur:...
- 8/16/2022
- by Kevin Fraser
- JoBlo.com
Exclusive: The partnership between Apple Original Films and Skydance Media looks to be building on its already-strong slate with another A-list star at the center of it. Sources tell Deadline that Apple has landed The Family Plan, an action-comedy feature from Skydance starring Mark Wahlberg, with Simon Cellan Jones directing.
The film will reunite Wahlberg with Jones following their collaboration on the upcoming Arthur the King.
Written by David Coggeshall, The Family Plan tells the story of a suburban dad who must take his family on the run when his past catches up to him. Municipal Pictures’ Stephen Levinson and Wahlberg will produce with Skydance’s David Ellison, Dana Goldberg and Don Granger.
Wahlberg continues to be one of the town’s busiest stars and started his year off with Uncharted, which also starred Tom Holland and grossed more than 400 million worldwide. He followed that up with the Sony Pictures...
The film will reunite Wahlberg with Jones following their collaboration on the upcoming Arthur the King.
Written by David Coggeshall, The Family Plan tells the story of a suburban dad who must take his family on the run when his past catches up to him. Municipal Pictures’ Stephen Levinson and Wahlberg will produce with Skydance’s David Ellison, Dana Goldberg and Don Granger.
Wahlberg continues to be one of the town’s busiest stars and started his year off with Uncharted, which also starred Tom Holland and grossed more than 400 million worldwide. He followed that up with the Sony Pictures...
- 8/16/2022
- by Justin Kroll
- Deadline Film + TV
Mark Wahlberg starts his day at 2:30 a.m., works out around 4 a.m., plays golf after that, and then gets to work — which might entail going on set (all over the world), taking business meetings, and appearing on talk shows. It’s as varied and demanding as a day can get, and one necessity to handle it, says Wahlberg, is the right wardrobe.
After struggling to find clothing with that kind of versatility, Wahlberg decided to launch his own brand, Municipal, in 2020 alongside his manager Stephen Levinson and golf industry guru Harry Arnett.
After struggling to find clothing with that kind of versatility, Wahlberg decided to launch his own brand, Municipal, in 2020 alongside his manager Stephen Levinson and golf industry guru Harry Arnett.
- 8/5/2022
- by Oscar Hartzog
- Rollingstone.com
Exclusive: Mark Wahlberg, Stephen Levinson and Archie Gips’ production company Unrealistic Ideas is teaming with producer Van Echeverri for a documentary feature about the FBI’s takedown of USC football player-turned-drug kingpin Owen Hanson.
“Unrealistic Ideas has a strong track record in the true-crime space, and the story of Owen Hanson jumped out at us,” said Unrealistic Ideas President/Partner Gips. “This is a working-class guy who worked hard to get into USC and then used the business skills he gained through his education there to create a global drug empire. We’re looking to explore how that happened and how it all fell apart.”
Hanson began dealing recreational drugs and steroids to teammates in college during the early 2000s, ultimately building a violent empire that operated in U.S., Central and South America and Australia. Arrested in September 2015 and sentenced in late 2017 to more than 21 years in federal prison,...
“Unrealistic Ideas has a strong track record in the true-crime space, and the story of Owen Hanson jumped out at us,” said Unrealistic Ideas President/Partner Gips. “This is a working-class guy who worked hard to get into USC and then used the business skills he gained through his education there to create a global drug empire. We’re looking to explore how that happened and how it all fell apart.”
Hanson began dealing recreational drugs and steroids to teammates in college during the early 2000s, ultimately building a violent empire that operated in U.S., Central and South America and Australia. Arrested in September 2015 and sentenced in late 2017 to more than 21 years in federal prison,...
- 7/6/2022
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: J.K. Simmons (Being the Ricardos), Jackie Earle Haley (The First Lady), Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje (Suicide Squad), Jessica De Gouw (The Secrets She Keeps) and Alice Lee (Brittany Runs a Marathon) have signed on to star alongside Mark Wahlberg and Halle Berry in the Netflix thriller Our Man from Jersey, from director Julian Farino (Ballers).
The film centers on Mike (Wahlberg), a down-to-earth construction worker from Jersey, who is quickly thrust into the world of super spies and secret agents when his high school ex-girlfriend Roxanne (Berry) recruits him on a high-stakes U.S. intelligence mission. Wahlberg, Stephen Levinson and Jeff Waxman will produce the pic written by David Guggenheim and Joe Barton.
Simmons won his first Oscar back in 2015 for his portrayal of cut-throat jazz instructor Fletcher in Damien Chazelle’s Whiplash, notching his second nom this year for his supporting turn in Aaron Sorkin’s Being the Ricardos. The...
The film centers on Mike (Wahlberg), a down-to-earth construction worker from Jersey, who is quickly thrust into the world of super spies and secret agents when his high school ex-girlfriend Roxanne (Berry) recruits him on a high-stakes U.S. intelligence mission. Wahlberg, Stephen Levinson and Jeff Waxman will produce the pic written by David Guggenheim and Joe Barton.
Simmons won his first Oscar back in 2015 for his portrayal of cut-throat jazz instructor Fletcher in Damien Chazelle’s Whiplash, notching his second nom this year for his supporting turn in Aaron Sorkin’s Being the Ricardos. The...
- 5/23/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Father Stu star Mark Wahlberg wants to be a part of more uplifting content.
While speaking with Entertainment Tonight, he spoke about his journey filming and how the inspirational message behind the film, is opening up a new door in his career and transitioning out of the Hollywood spotlight.
“I feel like this is starting a new chapter for me in that, now, doing things like this [with] real substance can help people. I definitely want to focus on making more. I wouldn’t say necessarily just faith-based content but things that will help people. Hopefully this movie will open a door for not only myself but for lots of other people in Hollywood to make more meaningful content.”
Maybe Wahlberg is looking to make films that are seen as inspirational (like Father Stu), opposed to his more violent action cinema like Infinite, and Mile 22, or escapist films like Uncharted.
While speaking with Entertainment Tonight, he spoke about his journey filming and how the inspirational message behind the film, is opening up a new door in his career and transitioning out of the Hollywood spotlight.
“I feel like this is starting a new chapter for me in that, now, doing things like this [with] real substance can help people. I definitely want to focus on making more. I wouldn’t say necessarily just faith-based content but things that will help people. Hopefully this movie will open a door for not only myself but for lots of other people in Hollywood to make more meaningful content.”
Maybe Wahlberg is looking to make films that are seen as inspirational (like Father Stu), opposed to his more violent action cinema like Infinite, and Mile 22, or escapist films like Uncharted.
- 4/10/2022
- by Valerie Complex
- Deadline Film + TV
Updated, 12:55 Pm: Sony today moved the release date of it Mark Wahlberg film Father Stu up by two days. The story of boxer-turned-priest Father Stuart Long now will open wide on Wednesday, April 13; it had been set for Friday the 15th.
Previously, January 25: Sony Pictures has acquired global rights to Rosalind Ross’ feature directorial debut Father Stu, starring and produced by Oscar nominee Mark Wahlberg.
Written by Ross, the film follows the true-life story of boxer-turned-priest, Father Stuart Long, whose journey from self-destruction to redemption inspired countless people along the way.
Sony has set a theatrical release of Father Stu for Good Friday, April 15. The move comes in the wake of MGM/Uar’s Thirteen Lives shifting from Easter weekend to Nov. 18. Father Stu will be opening on a weekend where Warner Bros has Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore.
Oscar winner Mel Gibson and Oscar nominee Jacki Weaver,...
Previously, January 25: Sony Pictures has acquired global rights to Rosalind Ross’ feature directorial debut Father Stu, starring and produced by Oscar nominee Mark Wahlberg.
Written by Ross, the film follows the true-life story of boxer-turned-priest, Father Stuart Long, whose journey from self-destruction to redemption inspired countless people along the way.
Sony has set a theatrical release of Father Stu for Good Friday, April 15. The move comes in the wake of MGM/Uar’s Thirteen Lives shifting from Easter weekend to Nov. 18. Father Stu will be opening on a weekend where Warner Bros has Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore.
Oscar winner Mel Gibson and Oscar nominee Jacki Weaver,...
- 2/25/2022
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Stuart Long (Mark Wahlberg) in Columbia Pictures’ Father Stu.
Based on a true story, Father Stu is an unflinchingly honest, funny and ultimately uplifting drama about a lost soul who finds his purpose in a most unexpected place.
When an injury ends his amateur boxing career, Stuart Long (Mark Wahlberg) moves to L.A. dreaming of stardom. While scraping by as a supermarket clerk, he meets Carmen (Teresa Ruiz), a Catholic Sunday school teacher who seems immune to his bad-boy charm. Determined to win her over, the longtime agnostic starts going to church to impress her. But surviving a terrible motorcycle accident leaves him wondering if he can use his second chance to help others find their way, leading to the surprising realization that he is meant to be a Catholic priest. Despite a devastating health crisis and the skepticism of Church officials and his estranged parents (Mel Gibson and...
Based on a true story, Father Stu is an unflinchingly honest, funny and ultimately uplifting drama about a lost soul who finds his purpose in a most unexpected place.
When an injury ends his amateur boxing career, Stuart Long (Mark Wahlberg) moves to L.A. dreaming of stardom. While scraping by as a supermarket clerk, he meets Carmen (Teresa Ruiz), a Catholic Sunday school teacher who seems immune to his bad-boy charm. Determined to win her over, the longtime agnostic starts going to church to impress her. But surviving a terrible motorcycle accident leaves him wondering if he can use his second chance to help others find their way, leading to the surprising realization that he is meant to be a Catholic priest. Despite a devastating health crisis and the skepticism of Church officials and his estranged parents (Mel Gibson and...
- 2/11/2022
- by Michelle Hannett
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Exclusive: Axs TV has acquired all 10 seasons of Wahlburgers, the Emmy-nominated reality series that aired on A&e from 2014-2019. Starring Paul, Donnie and Mark Wahlberg, Wahlburgers will premiere Sunday, February 27, with episodes airing weekly in a four-hour block, from 7 pm to 11 pm Et.
Wahlburgers takes viewers behind the scenes of one of the country’s most high-profile restaurant chains, as acclaimed chef Paul Wahlberg works to build a burger empire with the help of his own personal entourage led by his talented brothers Mark and Donnie, and their beloved mother Alma. The series provides an intimate glimpse into the inner workings of the Wahlberg clan as they balance busy kitchen life with the pressures of international expansion, menu innovation, and a side of friendly family drama. Despite the trials and tribulations of running a major chain, the Wahlberg boys keep their trademark charm and sincere love for each other...
Wahlburgers takes viewers behind the scenes of one of the country’s most high-profile restaurant chains, as acclaimed chef Paul Wahlberg works to build a burger empire with the help of his own personal entourage led by his talented brothers Mark and Donnie, and their beloved mother Alma. The series provides an intimate glimpse into the inner workings of the Wahlberg clan as they balance busy kitchen life with the pressures of international expansion, menu innovation, and a side of friendly family drama. Despite the trials and tribulations of running a major chain, the Wahlberg boys keep their trademark charm and sincere love for each other...
- 2/1/2022
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Sony Pictures has acquired “Father Stu,” a true-life drama starring Mark Wahlberg and Mel Gibson.
Rosalind Ross wrote and directed the faith-based movie, which will be released in theaters on Good Friday, April 15.
“Father Stu” tells the story of boxer-turned-priest Father Stuart Long and his inspiring journey from self-destruction to redemption. Along with Wahlberg, who plays the title character, and Gibson, the film features Jacki Weaver and Teresa Ruiz.
“Father’s Stu’s journey from troublemaker to clergyman was inspiring to many, including me,” said Wahlberg. “Rosey has done an incredible job capturing the essence of who he was and how he affected the people he met. I hope that with this film, we keep his spirit alive and continue his good works.”
Wahlberg will serve as a producer with Stephen Levinson and Jordon Foss. Executive producers include Miky Lee, Colleen Camp, Patrick Peach and Tony Grazia.
“Father Stu” is...
Rosalind Ross wrote and directed the faith-based movie, which will be released in theaters on Good Friday, April 15.
“Father Stu” tells the story of boxer-turned-priest Father Stuart Long and his inspiring journey from self-destruction to redemption. Along with Wahlberg, who plays the title character, and Gibson, the film features Jacki Weaver and Teresa Ruiz.
“Father’s Stu’s journey from troublemaker to clergyman was inspiring to many, including me,” said Wahlberg. “Rosey has done an incredible job capturing the essence of who he was and how he affected the people he met. I hope that with this film, we keep his spirit alive and continue his good works.”
Wahlberg will serve as a producer with Stephen Levinson and Jordon Foss. Executive producers include Miky Lee, Colleen Camp, Patrick Peach and Tony Grazia.
“Father Stu” is...
- 1/25/2022
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Mark Wahlberg, Stephen Levinson and Archie Gips’ production company Unrealistic Ideas has taken the rights to bestselling author Mark Shaw’s non-fiction book, Collateral Damage: The Mysterious Deaths of Marilyn Monroe, Dorothy Kilgallen and the Ties That Bind Them to Robert Kennedy and the JFK Assassination. Unrealistic Ideas plans to develop the IP into a documentary feature film.
In his book, Shaw, a noted historian, former criminal defense attorney and TV network legal analyst connects the dots between the three 20th century icons for the first time, finally providing an intriguing, well-documented and credible account of how Monroe and Kilgallen were denied justice when they mysteriously died in the 1960s. Shaw uses fresh evidence garnered from more than 100 primary-source witnesses, while retrieving clues from secret government reports and a flawed autopsy to reveal that then Attorney General Robert Kennedy was the main suspect in orchestrating Marilyn Monroe’s death.
In his book, Shaw, a noted historian, former criminal defense attorney and TV network legal analyst connects the dots between the three 20th century icons for the first time, finally providing an intriguing, well-documented and credible account of how Monroe and Kilgallen were denied justice when they mysteriously died in the 1960s. Shaw uses fresh evidence garnered from more than 100 primary-source witnesses, while retrieving clues from secret government reports and a flawed autopsy to reveal that then Attorney General Robert Kennedy was the main suspect in orchestrating Marilyn Monroe’s death.
- 10/28/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
United Talent Agency (UTA) has signed actor, author, activist and “In Treatment” co-executive producer Noa Tishby for representation.
As an actor, Tishby recently appeared in the Showtime drama “The Affair” and completed shooting the third season of her talk show “Life by Noa Tishby.” She began her acting career in Israel as a teen and starred on the hit series “Ramat Aviv Gimmel,” with U.S. acting credits including “The Island,” “Ghost of Girlfriends Past,” “Star Trek,” “Big Love,” “CSI” and “Dig.”
Tishby made her Hollywood producing debut with the sale of “In Treatment” to HBO, marking the first Israeli television show (the series is based on the drama “BeTipul”) to become an American series. Tishby has since co-produced the Emmy, Golden Globe and Peabody Award-winning show alongside Mark Wahlberg and Stephen Levinson, which is currently in its fourth season.
Following the success of “In Treatment,” Tishby continued her work in the previously untapped market,...
As an actor, Tishby recently appeared in the Showtime drama “The Affair” and completed shooting the third season of her talk show “Life by Noa Tishby.” She began her acting career in Israel as a teen and starred on the hit series “Ramat Aviv Gimmel,” with U.S. acting credits including “The Island,” “Ghost of Girlfriends Past,” “Star Trek,” “Big Love,” “CSI” and “Dig.”
Tishby made her Hollywood producing debut with the sale of “In Treatment” to HBO, marking the first Israeli television show (the series is based on the drama “BeTipul”) to become an American series. Tishby has since co-produced the Emmy, Golden Globe and Peabody Award-winning show alongside Mark Wahlberg and Stephen Levinson, which is currently in its fourth season.
Following the success of “In Treatment,” Tishby continued her work in the previously untapped market,...
- 8/25/2021
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Mark Wahlberg strides into theaters this weekend with Joe Bell as the Reinaldo Marcus Green film debuts on 1,093 screens supported by robust advertising and a star-driven social media campaign.
Roadside Attractions is distributing, having snapped up the film from Solstice Studios which acquired it off of a 2020 Toronto Film Festival premiere but was particularly hard hit by the pandemic and let it go. The drama scripted by the Oscar-winning Brokeback Mountain team of Larry McMurtry and Diana Ossana is the true story of a rough-edged dad who walks across America to speak to heartland adults and students about the evils of bullying as experienced firsthand by his gay teenage son.
Wahlberg and co-stars Connie Britton and Reid Miller (who plays son Jadin Bell) have all supported it with a robust PR schedule backed by cable and online advertising., “We are seeing gradual improvement with...
Roadside Attractions is distributing, having snapped up the film from Solstice Studios which acquired it off of a 2020 Toronto Film Festival premiere but was particularly hard hit by the pandemic and let it go. The drama scripted by the Oscar-winning Brokeback Mountain team of Larry McMurtry and Diana Ossana is the true story of a rough-edged dad who walks across America to speak to heartland adults and students about the evils of bullying as experienced firsthand by his gay teenage son.
Wahlberg and co-stars Connie Britton and Reid Miller (who plays son Jadin Bell) have all supported it with a robust PR schedule backed by cable and online advertising., “We are seeing gradual improvement with...
- 7/23/2021
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
Paramount Pictures’ Mark Wahlberg-fronted sci-fi thriller “Infinite” will land on streaming service Paramount Plus in key international markets.
The film, directed by Antoine Fuqua, will debut on the service in Canada, Latin America, the Nordics and Australia on Aug. 11. Currently, “Infinite” is the most-watched movie to date on the U.S. platform, said ViacomCBS.
Starring Mark Wahlberg, “Infinite” delves into the concept of reincarnation through characters who must use memories and skills from past lives to ensure the future. Alongside Wahlberg, the movie stars Chiwetel Ejiofor, Sophie Cookson, Jason Mantzoukas, Rupert Friend, Liz Carr, Toby Jones and Dylan O’Brien.
Originally set to premiere theatrically in August, Paramount announced earlier in May that “Infinite” would skip the big screen and debut directly on its nascent streaming service. The move was made in a bid to boost subscribers and build a serious rival to Netflix, Disney Plus and HBO Max.
The pic launched in the U.
The film, directed by Antoine Fuqua, will debut on the service in Canada, Latin America, the Nordics and Australia on Aug. 11. Currently, “Infinite” is the most-watched movie to date on the U.S. platform, said ViacomCBS.
Starring Mark Wahlberg, “Infinite” delves into the concept of reincarnation through characters who must use memories and skills from past lives to ensure the future. Alongside Wahlberg, the movie stars Chiwetel Ejiofor, Sophie Cookson, Jason Mantzoukas, Rupert Friend, Liz Carr, Toby Jones and Dylan O’Brien.
Originally set to premiere theatrically in August, Paramount announced earlier in May that “Infinite” would skip the big screen and debut directly on its nascent streaming service. The move was made in a bid to boost subscribers and build a serious rival to Netflix, Disney Plus and HBO Max.
The pic launched in the U.
- 7/1/2021
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Paramount Pictures’ Mark Wahlberg-starrer Infinite has been set to premiere via Paramount+ in Australia, Canada, Latin America and the Nordics on August 11, the ViacomCBS streamer said today. The Antoine Fuqua-directed sci-fi action flick had already bypassed a theatrical U.S. release, debuting on Paramount+ on June 10, where it is the service’s most-watched movie to date.
Outside the U.S., Paramount+ is currently available in Canada, all of Latin America and the Nordics. It will hit Australia on August 11. By the end of 2021, ViacomCBS will launch Paramount+ in 25 markets, increasing to 45 by the end of 2022.
“With the international debut of Paramount Pictures’ Infinite on Paramount+ in Australia, Canada, the Nordics and Latin America, we are building momentum for premium content to launch globally everywhere we have the Paramount+ streaming service. And, we are just getting started,” said Kelly Day, President, Streaming, and Chief Operating Officer, ViacomCBS Networks International.
Outside the U.S., Paramount+ is currently available in Canada, all of Latin America and the Nordics. It will hit Australia on August 11. By the end of 2021, ViacomCBS will launch Paramount+ in 25 markets, increasing to 45 by the end of 2022.
“With the international debut of Paramount Pictures’ Infinite on Paramount+ in Australia, Canada, the Nordics and Latin America, we are building momentum for premium content to launch globally everywhere we have the Paramount+ streaming service. And, we are just getting started,” said Kelly Day, President, Streaming, and Chief Operating Officer, ViacomCBS Networks International.
- 7/1/2021
- by Nancy Tartaglione
- Deadline Film + TV
HBO’s In Treatment has seen Uzo Aduba’s Dr. Brooke Taylor help her patients process their own emotions and traumas, but in Season 4’s “Brooke Week 5,” the doctor helps herself.
Penned by Jennifer Schuur and directed by Karyn Kusama, the rebooted series’ episode is the next script in Deadline’s It Starts On the Page. The ongoing series highlights the scripts that are serving as the creative backbones of the TV awards season. The scripts are all being submitted for Emmy consideration this year and have been selected using criteria that includes critical acclaim, a range of networks and platforms, and a mix of established and lesser-known shows.
Faced with the possibility of reuniting with her son for closure, Brooke seeks out help and advice from mentor Dr. Paul Weston (Gabriel Byrne). But when it seems he’s unavailable, Brooke takes matters into her own hands and begins unpacking complicated feelings for her family,...
Penned by Jennifer Schuur and directed by Karyn Kusama, the rebooted series’ episode is the next script in Deadline’s It Starts On the Page. The ongoing series highlights the scripts that are serving as the creative backbones of the TV awards season. The scripts are all being submitted for Emmy consideration this year and have been selected using criteria that includes critical acclaim, a range of networks and platforms, and a mix of established and lesser-known shows.
Faced with the possibility of reuniting with her son for closure, Brooke seeks out help and advice from mentor Dr. Paul Weston (Gabriel Byrne). But when it seems he’s unavailable, Brooke takes matters into her own hands and begins unpacking complicated feelings for her family,...
- 6/24/2021
- by Alexandra Del Rosario
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: The Walking Dead: World Beyond star Annet Mahendru has joined the Mark Wahlberg-Mel Gibson faith-based movie Stu, we hear. She recently wrapped season 2 on the AMC series. She’s also starring in Manifest West, a gritty drama from directors Louie Gibson and Joe Dietsch. Stu is directed and written by Rosalind Ross with Wahlberg producing alongside his partner and manager Stephen Levinson along with Jordan Foss. Miky Lee and Colleen Camp are EPs. Storyline is underwraps. Mahendru, who is repped by Paradigm, Bohemia Group and Nelson Davis, has starred in Amazon’s The Romanoffs, FX’s Tyrant, 2 Broke Girls, The Blacklist, Entourage and the indie move Escape From Tomorrow.
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Eric Ladin (The Right Stuff) is set to play Eric Chastain in Sony’s upcoming film Where the Crawdads Sing. He joins Garrett Dillahunt, David Strathairn, Taylor John Smith, Harris Dickinson, Michael Hyatt, Sterling Macer, Jr., Jayson Warner Smith...
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Eric Ladin (The Right Stuff) is set to play Eric Chastain in Sony’s upcoming film Where the Crawdads Sing. He joins Garrett Dillahunt, David Strathairn, Taylor John Smith, Harris Dickinson, Michael Hyatt, Sterling Macer, Jr., Jayson Warner Smith...
- 6/16/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Mark Wahlberg can do it all in his new movie “Infinite,” and he’s had centuries of practice.
Wahlberg in his new film plays a man who begins to see visions of places he’s never been or of people he’s never met, only to realize these visions are memories of his past lives. He’s part of a secret group called “Infinites” who retain their memories and abilities as they’re reincarnated, only Wahlberg’s memory has been reset, but he can still wield a mean sword or pack a punch like no one else. He now has to fight to save humanity and the world from an old rival Infinite who seeks to end all life and stop the endless cycle of reincarnation.
All of that culminates in one incredible sequence near the end of this final trailer, in which Wahlberg rides a speeding motorcycle off a...
Wahlberg in his new film plays a man who begins to see visions of places he’s never been or of people he’s never met, only to realize these visions are memories of his past lives. He’s part of a secret group called “Infinites” who retain their memories and abilities as they’re reincarnated, only Wahlberg’s memory has been reset, but he can still wield a mean sword or pack a punch like no one else. He now has to fight to save humanity and the world from an old rival Infinite who seeks to end all life and stop the endless cycle of reincarnation.
All of that culminates in one incredible sequence near the end of this final trailer, in which Wahlberg rides a speeding motorcycle off a...
- 6/4/2021
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
“Infinite,” a sci-fi thriller starring Mark Wahlberg and directed by Antoine Fuqua, will arrive on Paramount Plus in time for summer. The film is scheduled to release on June 6.
Originally set to premiere theatrically in August, Paramount announced earlier in May that “Infinite” would skip the big screen and debut directly on its budding streaming service. The move was made in a bid to boost subscribers and fashion a serious rival to Netflix, Disney Plus and HBO Max. The service, which was rebranded and relaunched in March, currently has 36 million global paid streaming users.
Based on the 2009 novel “The Reincarnationist Papers,” “Infinite” centers on Evan McCauley (Wahlberg), who is haunted by memories of skills he has never learned and places he has never visited. After encountering a secret group that call themselves “Infinites,” he discovers that his memories are real — but they are from multiple past lives. As he’s invited into their world,...
Originally set to premiere theatrically in August, Paramount announced earlier in May that “Infinite” would skip the big screen and debut directly on its budding streaming service. The move was made in a bid to boost subscribers and fashion a serious rival to Netflix, Disney Plus and HBO Max. The service, which was rebranded and relaunched in March, currently has 36 million global paid streaming users.
Based on the 2009 novel “The Reincarnationist Papers,” “Infinite” centers on Evan McCauley (Wahlberg), who is haunted by memories of skills he has never learned and places he has never visited. After encountering a secret group that call themselves “Infinites,” he discovers that his memories are real — but they are from multiple past lives. As he’s invited into their world,...
- 5/26/2021
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
Updated, 10 Am: We already knew that Infinite was bypassing a theatrical release for a debut on Paramount+ in June. It has been announced this morning that it will hit the Viacom CBS streaming service on June 10.
Previously, May 6: Another Paramount theatrical release is leaving the calendar. The Antoine Fuqua-directed sci-fi thriller Infinite, starring Mark Wahlberg, will hit the Paramount+ streaming service in June.
ViacomCBS CEO Bob Bakish made it official today during the conglom’s first-quarter earnings call. Infinite was recently slated to hit cinemas September 24.
Exhibition need not worry: There’s a ton of big movies left on that fall date, including Sony’s Venom: Let There Be Carnage, Universal’s Dear Evan Hansen, and Warner Bros/HBO Max’s Sopranos prequel The Many Saints of Newark. The limited launch of Searchlight’s The Eyes of Tammy Faye will also open that day.
The remaining theatrical releases...
Previously, May 6: Another Paramount theatrical release is leaving the calendar. The Antoine Fuqua-directed sci-fi thriller Infinite, starring Mark Wahlberg, will hit the Paramount+ streaming service in June.
ViacomCBS CEO Bob Bakish made it official today during the conglom’s first-quarter earnings call. Infinite was recently slated to hit cinemas September 24.
Exhibition need not worry: There’s a ton of big movies left on that fall date, including Sony’s Venom: Let There Be Carnage, Universal’s Dear Evan Hansen, and Warner Bros/HBO Max’s Sopranos prequel The Many Saints of Newark. The limited launch of Searchlight’s The Eyes of Tammy Faye will also open that day.
The remaining theatrical releases...
- 5/26/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Reinaldo Marcus Green directed 2020 TIFF world premiere.
Roadside Attractions has acquired the Mark Wahlberg true-life drama Joe Bell and will release exclusively in cinemas on July 23, with Vertical Entertainment on board for a post-theatrical digital release.
Solstice has exited the project after acquiring it following the world premiere at Toronto last year. It had been lining up what would have been its second North American release after Unhinged.
However Solstice’s business plan of releasing on more than 2,000 screens was deemed not to be viable at a time when exhibition is returning from the pandemic, and the filmmakers preferred a slower roll-out.
Roadside Attractions has acquired the Mark Wahlberg true-life drama Joe Bell and will release exclusively in cinemas on July 23, with Vertical Entertainment on board for a post-theatrical digital release.
Solstice has exited the project after acquiring it following the world premiere at Toronto last year. It had been lining up what would have been its second North American release after Unhinged.
However Solstice’s business plan of releasing on more than 2,000 screens was deemed not to be viable at a time when exhibition is returning from the pandemic, and the filmmakers preferred a slower roll-out.
- 5/21/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
“Joe Bell,” the Mark Wahlberg drama that was first acquired by Solstice Studios for $20 million out of Toronto, has now changed hands to Roadside Attractions, which will release the film on July 23.
Solstice Studios has now exited the project, and the film will get a slower rollout beginning with 750 theaters. Vertical Entertainment has also come aboard to handle the film’s post-theatrical digital release.
Reinaldo Marcus Green directs “Joe Bell” from a script by “Brokeback Mountain” writers Diana Ossana and Larry McMurtry. The film is a true story of an Oregon father who pays tribute to his gay teenage son Jadin, embarking on a self-reflective walk across America to speak his heart to heartland citizens about the real and terrifying costs of bullying.
Starring alongside Wahlberg in the film are newcomer Reid Miller, Connie Britton and Gary Sinise.
Producers on “Joe Bell,” originally titled “Good Joe Bell,” are Daniela Taplin Lundberg,...
Solstice Studios has now exited the project, and the film will get a slower rollout beginning with 750 theaters. Vertical Entertainment has also come aboard to handle the film’s post-theatrical digital release.
Reinaldo Marcus Green directs “Joe Bell” from a script by “Brokeback Mountain” writers Diana Ossana and Larry McMurtry. The film is a true story of an Oregon father who pays tribute to his gay teenage son Jadin, embarking on a self-reflective walk across America to speak his heart to heartland citizens about the real and terrifying costs of bullying.
Starring alongside Wahlberg in the film are newcomer Reid Miller, Connie Britton and Gary Sinise.
Producers on “Joe Bell,” originally titled “Good Joe Bell,” are Daniela Taplin Lundberg,...
- 5/21/2021
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
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