Linda Fairstein, the controversial former prosecutor involved in the Central Park Five case, has settled her defamation lawsuit against Netflix and Ava DuVernay over the 2019 docuseries “When They See Us.”
Fairstein sued in 2020, alleging that she was falsely portrayed as a racist villain who orchestrated the convictions of five innocent young men. The case was set to go to trial next week in federal court in Manhattan.
In the settlement, Netflix agreed to donate $1 million to the Innocence Project. Fairstein will not receive money.
Netflix also agreed to add this disclaimer to the front of the show: “While the motion picture is inspired by actual events and persons, certain characters, incidents, locations, dialogue, and names are fictionalized for the purposes of dramatization.”
Fairstein said in a statement that the litigation has revealed the truth about the case. She cited a judge’s ruling last fall denying Netflix’s motion for summary judgment,...
Fairstein sued in 2020, alleging that she was falsely portrayed as a racist villain who orchestrated the convictions of five innocent young men. The case was set to go to trial next week in federal court in Manhattan.
In the settlement, Netflix agreed to donate $1 million to the Innocence Project. Fairstein will not receive money.
Netflix also agreed to add this disclaimer to the front of the show: “While the motion picture is inspired by actual events and persons, certain characters, incidents, locations, dialogue, and names are fictionalized for the purposes of dramatization.”
Fairstein said in a statement that the litigation has revealed the truth about the case. She cited a judge’s ruling last fall denying Netflix’s motion for summary judgment,...
- 6/4/2024
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
Sundance Institute has announced the 2024 Directors, Screenwriters, and Native Labs fellows.
The Native Lab takes place in person in Santa Fe, New Mexico, from April 29–May 4 and will support four fellows and two artists in residence. The Lab focuses on centring Indigeneity in the storytelling of participants from Native and Indigenous backgrounds and will work on feature film and episodic scripts through one-on-one feedback sections and roundtable discussions with advisors.
The fellows are: Don Josephus Raphael Eblahan (writer-director) with Hum (Phil-usa); Ryland Walker Knight (writer-director) with The Lip Of The World (USA); Charine Pilar Gonzales (writer-director) with Ndn Time (USA...
The Native Lab takes place in person in Santa Fe, New Mexico, from April 29–May 4 and will support four fellows and two artists in residence. The Lab focuses on centring Indigeneity in the storytelling of participants from Native and Indigenous backgrounds and will work on feature film and episodic scripts through one-on-one feedback sections and roundtable discussions with advisors.
The fellows are: Don Josephus Raphael Eblahan (writer-director) with Hum (Phil-usa); Ryland Walker Knight (writer-director) with The Lip Of The World (USA); Charine Pilar Gonzales (writer-director) with Ndn Time (USA...
- 4/29/2024
- ScreenDaily
Sundance Institute announced today the fellows selected for the 2024 Directors, Screenwriters, and Native Labs. The Native Lab in New Mexico will support four fellows and two artists in residence, and the Directors Lab in Colorado will support the development of eight projects with nine fellows, with an additional three fellows also joining for the online Screenwriters Lab held immediately after.
For over four decades, Sundance Institute’s signature labs have provided filmmakers a nurturing, immersive environment to develop their projects and refine their artistic voice under the guidance of accomplished creative advisors.
The 2024 Native Lab, taking place in person in Santa Fe, New Mexico, from April 29–May 4, is designed for participants of Native and Indigenous backgrounds and focuses on centering Indigeneity in their storytelling. Fellows will build community and refine their feature film and episodic scripts through one-on-one feedback sections and roundtable discussions with advisors. Four fellows were selected: three who are U.
For over four decades, Sundance Institute’s signature labs have provided filmmakers a nurturing, immersive environment to develop their projects and refine their artistic voice under the guidance of accomplished creative advisors.
The 2024 Native Lab, taking place in person in Santa Fe, New Mexico, from April 29–May 4, is designed for participants of Native and Indigenous backgrounds and focuses on centering Indigeneity in their storytelling. Fellows will build community and refine their feature film and episodic scripts through one-on-one feedback sections and roundtable discussions with advisors. Four fellows were selected: three who are U.
- 4/29/2024
- by Valerie Complex
- Deadline Film + TV
“Poor Things,” “Oppenheimer,” “Killers of the Flower Moon,” “American Fiction,” “All of Us Strangers,” and “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret” all received Best Adapted Screenplay bids from the Critics Choice Awards thus giving their Oscar hopes in this category a timely boost. Some of them were lauded even further at the Golden Globes, which nominated “Poor Things,” “Oppenheimer,” and “Killers of the Flower Moon” alongside “Barbie,” “Past Lives,” and “Anatomy of Fall” in a combined Best Screenplay category.
So, those are the preferences of those two awards groups. But what about the tastes of the academy? Well, below is a chart detailing the last 10 Oscar winners for Best Adapted Screenplay. We’re going to break this down to see what the academy likes and try to apply the findings to this year’s race.
As you can see, novels are the academy’s favorite source material, accounting for...
So, those are the preferences of those two awards groups. But what about the tastes of the academy? Well, below is a chart detailing the last 10 Oscar winners for Best Adapted Screenplay. We’re going to break this down to see what the academy likes and try to apply the findings to this year’s race.
As you can see, novels are the academy’s favorite source material, accounting for...
- 12/27/2023
- by Jacob Sarkisian
- Gold Derby
Elsa Zylberstein, the French actor-producer whose timely movie “Simone: Woman of a Century” was recently released in the U.S., has signed with CAA for representation.
The actor’s performance as Simone Veil, an Auschwitz survivor who became a feminist icon and human rights activist, earned critical praise and struck a chord with French audiences, becoming one of the highest-grossing French films of 2022.
Distributed by Samuel Goldwyn Films in the U.S., Olivier Dahan’s biopic sheds light on how Veil became a revered figure within France’s male-dominated political world after surviving the camps, championing the 1975 law that legalized abortion in France. The Holocaust Museum in L.A. will host a special screening of the movie on Nov. 29 in the presence of Zylberstein. A similar event is also being organized in Washington, D.C.
The actor has also launched production vehicles in France and the U.S. to develop...
The actor’s performance as Simone Veil, an Auschwitz survivor who became a feminist icon and human rights activist, earned critical praise and struck a chord with French audiences, becoming one of the highest-grossing French films of 2022.
Distributed by Samuel Goldwyn Films in the U.S., Olivier Dahan’s biopic sheds light on how Veil became a revered figure within France’s male-dominated political world after surviving the camps, championing the 1975 law that legalized abortion in France. The Holocaust Museum in L.A. will host a special screening of the movie on Nov. 29 in the presence of Zylberstein. A similar event is also being organized in Washington, D.C.
The actor has also launched production vehicles in France and the U.S. to develop...
- 11/14/2023
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
David Fincher is one of the most important filmmakers of his generation – endlessly praised, shamelessly ripped off and somehow still undervalued (He still hasn’t won a Best Director Oscar).
His work conjures up darkened hallways, dogged detectives and crazed killers. The word “Fincherian” has come to describe something twisted and somehow beautiful. As an artist he frequently pushes the boundaries of what is possible technologically, while also playing with the comfort level of his audience. If it doesn’t feel a little bit dangerous, is it even a David Fincher movie?
With “The Killer,” in theaters now and on Netflix on November 10, Fincher takes us on another wild journey, this time alongside a sardonic hit man (Michael Fassbender). In celebration of “The Killer,” we thought we’d look back at his entire filmography. It’s a journey as dark and labyrinthine as anything the filmmaker could cook up.
Image Entertainment...
His work conjures up darkened hallways, dogged detectives and crazed killers. The word “Fincherian” has come to describe something twisted and somehow beautiful. As an artist he frequently pushes the boundaries of what is possible technologically, while also playing with the comfort level of his audience. If it doesn’t feel a little bit dangerous, is it even a David Fincher movie?
With “The Killer,” in theaters now and on Netflix on November 10, Fincher takes us on another wild journey, this time alongside a sardonic hit man (Michael Fassbender). In celebration of “The Killer,” we thought we’d look back at his entire filmography. It’s a journey as dark and labyrinthine as anything the filmmaker could cook up.
Image Entertainment...
- 10/30/2023
- by Drew Taylor
- The Wrap
Screenwriter Robin Swicord hasn’t seen “Practical Magic” in the 25 years since it was released. For her, it’s hard to remember much about the film outside of “trying to figure the movie out and do my best to write something that would get made and be worth it,” she told TheWrap in an exclusive interview. Swicord is Hollywood’s go-to screenwriter when the town needs a book adaptation. Her writing has defined a generation from her 1994 adaptation of “Little Women” to working with perceived unadaptable material like 2005’s “Memoirs of a Geisha.”
“Practical Magic” is a bittersweet topic for Swicord, though, due to changes with the script that would eventually be credited to her, as well as Akiva Goldsman and Adam Brooks. Creative clashes with director Griffin Dunne compelled Swicord to “write that one off,” she said. A surprising admission given the film’s beloved status by many, especially when fall rolls around.
“Practical Magic” is a bittersweet topic for Swicord, though, due to changes with the script that would eventually be credited to her, as well as Akiva Goldsman and Adam Brooks. Creative clashes with director Griffin Dunne compelled Swicord to “write that one off,” she said. A surprising admission given the film’s beloved status by many, especially when fall rolls around.
- 10/19/2023
- by Kristen Lopez
- The Wrap
“Killers of the Flower Moon” was the big player at this weekend’s BFI London Film Festival this week, dragging us journalists out of bed at 8 Am on a Saturday morning to see the Martin Scorsese epic. But it’s okay because we were treated to one of Scorsese’s best films yet.
The Apple TV+ release, due out on Oct. 18, stars Leonardo DiCaprio as Ernest Burkhart, who fell in love with Lily Gladstone‘s Mollie, a member of the Osage tribe in the 1920s. Meanwhile, Ernest’s uncle, William King Hale (Robert De Niro), schemed to murder his way to owning the oil headrights owned by members of the Osage tribe. The film has earned rave reviews. Here are the Oscar nominations we are predicting for “Killers of the Flower Moon.”
Best Picture
We are predicting that “Killers of the Flower Moon” will be nominated for Best Picture alongside “Oppenheimer,...
The Apple TV+ release, due out on Oct. 18, stars Leonardo DiCaprio as Ernest Burkhart, who fell in love with Lily Gladstone‘s Mollie, a member of the Osage tribe in the 1920s. Meanwhile, Ernest’s uncle, William King Hale (Robert De Niro), schemed to murder his way to owning the oil headrights owned by members of the Osage tribe. The film has earned rave reviews. Here are the Oscar nominations we are predicting for “Killers of the Flower Moon.”
Best Picture
We are predicting that “Killers of the Flower Moon” will be nominated for Best Picture alongside “Oppenheimer,...
- 10/11/2023
- by Jacob Sarkisian
- Gold Derby
The Writers Lab, supported by Meryl Streep and Nicole Kidman, has revealed its ninth annual batch of participants.
With a devotion to developing scripted content written by women over the age of 40, the Lab, produced with New York Women in Film & Television, is known for its commitment to elevating the work of women screenwriters through mentorship, advocacy and exposure.
The participants of The Writers Lab 2023 are Louisa Kendrick Burton (“The Charge”), Shari Lynette Carpenter (“Translate”), Helena Cho (“The Last Buddha”), Marya Cohn (“Hurricane Season”), Lesley Fera (“Inconceivable”), Brooke Hemphill (“Apotcalypse”), Justina Ireland (“Bleeding Kansas”), Tricia Lee (“Good Chance”), Betsy Nagler (“Priceless”), Lisa Ramirez and Michele Noble (“Fifty”), Sarah Sinclair (“The Stratford Wife”) and Jill Twiss (“Bee”).
“Women over 40 make up 25% of the world population, and women over 50 control $19 billion, yet this demographic remains ignored by Hollywood and streamers. AI won’t change that — only women will,” said co-founder Elizabeth Kaiden.
With a devotion to developing scripted content written by women over the age of 40, the Lab, produced with New York Women in Film & Television, is known for its commitment to elevating the work of women screenwriters through mentorship, advocacy and exposure.
The participants of The Writers Lab 2023 are Louisa Kendrick Burton (“The Charge”), Shari Lynette Carpenter (“Translate”), Helena Cho (“The Last Buddha”), Marya Cohn (“Hurricane Season”), Lesley Fera (“Inconceivable”), Brooke Hemphill (“Apotcalypse”), Justina Ireland (“Bleeding Kansas”), Tricia Lee (“Good Chance”), Betsy Nagler (“Priceless”), Lisa Ramirez and Michele Noble (“Fifty”), Sarah Sinclair (“The Stratford Wife”) and Jill Twiss (“Bee”).
“Women over 40 make up 25% of the world population, and women over 50 control $19 billion, yet this demographic remains ignored by Hollywood and streamers. AI won’t change that — only women will,” said co-founder Elizabeth Kaiden.
- 8/3/2023
- by McKinley Franklin
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Film Independent has set 26 filmmakers from 15 nations to participate in the 2023 edition of their Global Media Makers LA Residency, which is being held in person this month.
A mentoring initiative and cultural exchange program that connects American filmmakers and industry pros with filmmakers spread across the globe, Gmm sees Fellows participate in filmmaking tracks focused on screenwriting, directing, creative development and documentary filmmaking, where they develop their current projects alongside a team of U.S. mentors.
The program, presented by Film Independent and the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, further bolsters up-and-comers by providing access to master classes, industry sessions and field trips, as well as cultural engagement and networking opportunities.
This edition of Gmm is the eighth put on since 2016, and as always, the selection process was highly competitive, attracting a diverse pool of media makers, with the countries of Angola, Libya,...
A mentoring initiative and cultural exchange program that connects American filmmakers and industry pros with filmmakers spread across the globe, Gmm sees Fellows participate in filmmaking tracks focused on screenwriting, directing, creative development and documentary filmmaking, where they develop their current projects alongside a team of U.S. mentors.
The program, presented by Film Independent and the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, further bolsters up-and-comers by providing access to master classes, industry sessions and field trips, as well as cultural engagement and networking opportunities.
This edition of Gmm is the eighth put on since 2016, and as always, the selection process was highly competitive, attracting a diverse pool of media makers, with the countries of Angola, Libya,...
- 6/5/2023
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Picketers gathered outside Warner Bros. in Burbank today found themselves buoyed by a unique presence: Flavor Flav. The hip-hop icon-turned-reality star showed up to cheers from the assembled WGA supporters.
Dressed in a festive yellow-and-blue track suit and wearing a demure (for him) red clock around his neck, the Public Enemy also brought a boombox and blasted the group’s classic “Fight the Power.”
Possibly even better, Flav brought a lot of food.
“A true spread of burgers and pizzas at Warner Bros courtesy of Flava Flav!” wrote Abbott Elementary writer-producer Brittani Nichols on Twitter above a photo of the rapper delivering at least a dozen boxes of grub.
A true spread of burgers and pizzas at Warner Bros courtesy of Flava Flav! Please come picket and eat! #WGAstrong pic.twitter.com/V1pJZ4raIr
— Brittani Nichols *Strike Version* (@BisHilarious) May 18, 2023
Flavor Flav just arrived at WB #WGAstrong pic.twitter.
Dressed in a festive yellow-and-blue track suit and wearing a demure (for him) red clock around his neck, the Public Enemy also brought a boombox and blasted the group’s classic “Fight the Power.”
Possibly even better, Flav brought a lot of food.
“A true spread of burgers and pizzas at Warner Bros courtesy of Flava Flav!” wrote Abbott Elementary writer-producer Brittani Nichols on Twitter above a photo of the rapper delivering at least a dozen boxes of grub.
A true spread of burgers and pizzas at Warner Bros courtesy of Flava Flav! Please come picket and eat! #WGAstrong pic.twitter.com/V1pJZ4raIr
— Brittani Nichols *Strike Version* (@BisHilarious) May 18, 2023
Flavor Flav just arrived at WB #WGAstrong pic.twitter.
- 5/18/2023
- by Valerie Complex, Rosy Cordero, Matt Grobar and Tom Tapp
- Deadline Film + TV
Paul Dano is sharing his support for the WGA strike even while abroad.
The actor, writer, and director revealed during the 2023 Cannes Film Festival press conference that he is ready to join wife and fellow filmmaker Zoe Kazan “on the picket line” after serving on the Cannes jury.
“My wife is currently picketing with my six-month-old, strapped to her chest,” Dano said. “I will be there on the picket line when I get home.”
The Writers Guild of America strike began May 2 after six weeks of unsuccessful negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, representing the likes of Netflix, Disney, Apple, NBCUniversal, Warner Bros., Paramount, Amazon, and more. Writers are demanding better pay, residuals structures, and protection against AI as a replacement tool for their work, among other concerns. Multiple productions have halted in solidarity with the demonstrations.
Dano wrote and directed indie film “Wildlife” alongside co-writer Kazan,...
The actor, writer, and director revealed during the 2023 Cannes Film Festival press conference that he is ready to join wife and fellow filmmaker Zoe Kazan “on the picket line” after serving on the Cannes jury.
“My wife is currently picketing with my six-month-old, strapped to her chest,” Dano said. “I will be there on the picket line when I get home.”
The Writers Guild of America strike began May 2 after six weeks of unsuccessful negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, representing the likes of Netflix, Disney, Apple, NBCUniversal, Warner Bros., Paramount, Amazon, and more. Writers are demanding better pay, residuals structures, and protection against AI as a replacement tool for their work, among other concerns. Multiple productions have halted in solidarity with the demonstrations.
Dano wrote and directed indie film “Wildlife” alongside co-writer Kazan,...
- 5/16/2023
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
The Sundance Institute has announced the participants in their famed screenwriters, directors and Native labs.
The directors and screenwriters labs will support 12 fellows, with five fellows selected for the Native lab. Lab participants will develop their original works under the mentorship of notable advisors. Paul Thomas Anderson, Ryan Coogler, David Gordon Green, Sterlin Harjo, Taika Waititi, Lulu Wang and Chloé Zhao are among previous Sundance lab participants.
The directors lab advisor cohort includes Miguel Arteta, Joan Darling, Rick Famuyiwa, Stephen Goldblatt, Keith Gordon, Randa Haines, Ed Harris, Gina Prince-Bythewood, Polly Morgan, Ira Sachs, Michelle Tesoro and Joan Tewkesbury. The screenwriters lab advisor cohort, led by artistic director Howard Rodman, includes Justin Chon, Sebastian Cordero, Cherien Dabis, D.V. Devincentis, Scott Frank, John Gatins, Nicole Kassell, Kasi Lemmons, Tarell Alvin McCraney, Elena Soarez and Robin Swicord. The Native Lab creative advisors include Andrew Ahn, Alex Lazarowich (Cree), Dana Ladoux Miller (Sāmoan) and Jennifer Reeder.
The directors and screenwriters labs will support 12 fellows, with five fellows selected for the Native lab. Lab participants will develop their original works under the mentorship of notable advisors. Paul Thomas Anderson, Ryan Coogler, David Gordon Green, Sterlin Harjo, Taika Waititi, Lulu Wang and Chloé Zhao are among previous Sundance lab participants.
The directors lab advisor cohort includes Miguel Arteta, Joan Darling, Rick Famuyiwa, Stephen Goldblatt, Keith Gordon, Randa Haines, Ed Harris, Gina Prince-Bythewood, Polly Morgan, Ira Sachs, Michelle Tesoro and Joan Tewkesbury. The screenwriters lab advisor cohort, led by artistic director Howard Rodman, includes Justin Chon, Sebastian Cordero, Cherien Dabis, D.V. Devincentis, Scott Frank, John Gatins, Nicole Kassell, Kasi Lemmons, Tarell Alvin McCraney, Elena Soarez and Robin Swicord. The Native Lab creative advisors include Andrew Ahn, Alex Lazarowich (Cree), Dana Ladoux Miller (Sāmoan) and Jennifer Reeder.
- 4/27/2023
- by Mia Galuppo
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Sundance Institute on Thursday announced the fellows set for the 2023 edition of their Directors, Screenwriters and Native Labs.
Native Lab participants will include Eva Grant (Degrees of Separation), Quinne Larsen (Trouble), Anpa’o Locke (Growing Pains), Jana Schmieding (Auntie Chuck) and Cian Elyse White (Te Puhi’).
Those taking part in the Directors Lab and/or the Screenwriters Lab include Hadas Ayalon (In a Minute You’ll Be Gone), Dania Bdeir & Bane Fakih (Pigeon Wars), Rashad Frett & Lin Que Ayoung (Ricky), Masami Kawai (Valley of the Tall Grass), Gabriela Ortega (Huella), Audrey Rosenberg (Wild Animals), Abinash Bikram Shah (Elephants in the Fog), Walter Thompson-Hernández (If I Go Will They Miss Me), Sean Wang (DìDi (弟弟)) and Farida Zahran (The Leftover Ladies).
A significant part of supporting Indigenous filmmakers for nearly two decades, the Native Lab will kick off online this year from May 1–5 before continuing in person in Santa Fe,...
Native Lab participants will include Eva Grant (Degrees of Separation), Quinne Larsen (Trouble), Anpa’o Locke (Growing Pains), Jana Schmieding (Auntie Chuck) and Cian Elyse White (Te Puhi’).
Those taking part in the Directors Lab and/or the Screenwriters Lab include Hadas Ayalon (In a Minute You’ll Be Gone), Dania Bdeir & Bane Fakih (Pigeon Wars), Rashad Frett & Lin Que Ayoung (Ricky), Masami Kawai (Valley of the Tall Grass), Gabriela Ortega (Huella), Audrey Rosenberg (Wild Animals), Abinash Bikram Shah (Elephants in the Fog), Walter Thompson-Hernández (If I Go Will They Miss Me), Sean Wang (DìDi (弟弟)) and Farida Zahran (The Leftover Ladies).
A significant part of supporting Indigenous filmmakers for nearly two decades, the Native Lab will kick off online this year from May 1–5 before continuing in person in Santa Fe,...
- 4/27/2023
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
The Film Independent Screenwriting Lab is 25 years old. Can you believe it? It’s officially old enough to rent a car! And sure, hardshell clams and giant tortoises can live for centuries, but you don’t reach the quarter-century mark as a Hollywood talent incubator without substance, value and tangible success.
But more than that, this year’s cohort of freshly announced Screenwriting Lab Fellows are special. Why? Because! We’re in the midst of celebrating #AD30, aka the 30th anniversary of Film Independent’s Artist Development programs. And like its elder sibling Project Involve (which got the whole ball of wax rolling in ‘93), the Screenwriting Lab has been an essential industry resource, whether your looking to develop your own skills or tap new talent.
“We’re thrilled to support this exceptional group of filmmakers, who bring compassion, authenticity and curiosity to their work exploring unique communities and characters,” says Dea Vazquez,...
But more than that, this year’s cohort of freshly announced Screenwriting Lab Fellows are special. Why? Because! We’re in the midst of celebrating #AD30, aka the 30th anniversary of Film Independent’s Artist Development programs. And like its elder sibling Project Involve (which got the whole ball of wax rolling in ‘93), the Screenwriting Lab has been an essential industry resource, whether your looking to develop your own skills or tap new talent.
“We’re thrilled to support this exceptional group of filmmakers, who bring compassion, authenticity and curiosity to their work exploring unique communities and characters,” says Dea Vazquez,...
- 4/26/2023
- by Matt Warren
- Film Independent News & More
Exclusive: Film Independent on Wednesday named the eight screenwriters set for the 25th edition of their Screenwriting Lab. The latest cohort of the intensive program, designed to provide individualized story and career development for screenwriters with fiction feature screenplays, includes Bri Brooks, Karina Dandashi, Thais Drassinower, Chloé Hung, Adam Meeks, Nat Moonhill, Veronica Moonhill and Richard Van.
Film Independent also today named Dandashi as the recipient of their latest Mpac Hollywood Bureau Writing Fellowship Grant, who will receive $10,000 in recognition of her script, Out of Water.
Over the course of the Lab, Fellows will workshop their projects under the guidance of creative advisors Andrew Ahn, Javier Fuentes-León, Jeff Stockwell and Robin Swicord. Additional guest speakers and advisors will include Ruth Atkinson, Angela Cheng Caplan, Kd Dávila, Greta Fuentes, Jordan Hart, Eliza Hittman, Ana Leocha, Ilyse McKimmie, Lauren Mann, Kiva Reardon, Pamela Ribon and Ellen Shanman.
“In our 30th year of...
Film Independent also today named Dandashi as the recipient of their latest Mpac Hollywood Bureau Writing Fellowship Grant, who will receive $10,000 in recognition of her script, Out of Water.
Over the course of the Lab, Fellows will workshop their projects under the guidance of creative advisors Andrew Ahn, Javier Fuentes-León, Jeff Stockwell and Robin Swicord. Additional guest speakers and advisors will include Ruth Atkinson, Angela Cheng Caplan, Kd Dávila, Greta Fuentes, Jordan Hart, Eliza Hittman, Ana Leocha, Ilyse McKimmie, Lauren Mann, Kiva Reardon, Pamela Ribon and Ellen Shanman.
“In our 30th year of...
- 4/26/2023
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
The magical world of Hogwarts, created by J. K. Rowling, has captivated and inspired millions of people around the globe since the Harry Potter franchise began. The series follows young wizard Harry and his amazing magical adventures as he learns to use spells, concoct potions, test his skills in magic duels, and play Quidditch with his magical friends.
Through his journey, we see him encounter outlandish magical creatures that aren’t found in our muggle world – dragon’s smoke-phoenixes, werewolves, and a host of other magical beasts are all part of this fantastic fantasy story that has won over fans since its start.
Since the iconic debut of this franchise in 2001, magical adventures have become a staple in the film world. This franchise quickly became one of the most beloved adventure series of our time, turning Harry Potter into a global icon with a massive and loyal fan base that remains today.
Through his journey, we see him encounter outlandish magical creatures that aren’t found in our muggle world – dragon’s smoke-phoenixes, werewolves, and a host of other magical beasts are all part of this fantastic fantasy story that has won over fans since its start.
Since the iconic debut of this franchise in 2001, magical adventures have become a staple in the film world. This franchise quickly became one of the most beloved adventure series of our time, turning Harry Potter into a global icon with a massive and loyal fan base that remains today.
- 2/24/2023
- by Israr Ahmed
- buddytv.com
BET has announced a new documentary film, “Black + Iconic: Style Gods,” starring Billy Porter and produced by Stanley Nelson and Firelight Films. The documentary is part of the new four-part “Black + Iconic” series that will showcase the legacy and cultural impact of Black icons across music, film, fashion and dance.
Porter will narrate, host and executive produce the first documentary in the series, with Lynne Robinson directing. Connie Orlando and Jason Samuels developed the series with supervising producer Steven Ramey.
“We’re thrilled to be working with BET again after the success of our first project together, ‘Through the Fire: The Legacy of Barack Obama,’” said Nelson, who is also a Firelight Films co-founder, in a statement. “I couldn’t think of a better home for this series celebrating Black icons via the numerous mediums through which Black creatives have made an indelible mark on the culture.”
The two-hour first...
Porter will narrate, host and executive produce the first documentary in the series, with Lynne Robinson directing. Connie Orlando and Jason Samuels developed the series with supervising producer Steven Ramey.
“We’re thrilled to be working with BET again after the success of our first project together, ‘Through the Fire: The Legacy of Barack Obama,’” said Nelson, who is also a Firelight Films co-founder, in a statement. “I couldn’t think of a better home for this series celebrating Black icons via the numerous mediums through which Black creatives have made an indelible mark on the culture.”
The two-hour first...
- 2/2/2023
- by Julia MacCary and Charna Flam
- Variety Film + TV
A lawsuit brought by families of Sandy Hook Elementary School mass shooting victims against a gun manufacturer will be the subject of a limited series project.
Echo Lake Entertainment (Hulu’s The Great, The Girl From Plainville) is producing the project from Robin Swicord (When They See Us, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button), Sarah Koskoff (Hello I Must Be Going) and Echo Lake’s Mary Jane Skalski, with consultation from several families involved in the suit.
Koskoff also has a personal connection to the story: Her brother, Josh Koskoff, was the plaintiffs’ lawyer in the case. Josh Koskoff will also consult on the project, which has yet to be to be shopped to potential outlets.
The limited series will tell the story of how nine Sandy Hook families sued to hold Remington Arms — at the time of the mass shooting owned by venture capital firm Cerberus Capital Management —accountable...
Echo Lake Entertainment (Hulu’s The Great, The Girl From Plainville) is producing the project from Robin Swicord (When They See Us, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button), Sarah Koskoff (Hello I Must Be Going) and Echo Lake’s Mary Jane Skalski, with consultation from several families involved in the suit.
Koskoff also has a personal connection to the story: Her brother, Josh Koskoff, was the plaintiffs’ lawyer in the case. Josh Koskoff will also consult on the project, which has yet to be to be shopped to potential outlets.
The limited series will tell the story of how nine Sandy Hook families sued to hold Remington Arms — at the time of the mass shooting owned by venture capital firm Cerberus Capital Management —accountable...
- 2/1/2023
- by Rick Porter
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
A limited series about the Sandy Hook shooting and the ensuing eight-year legal battle between victims’ families and gun manufacturer Remington Arms has landed at Echo Lake Entertainment. Oscar nominee Robin Swicord (“When They See Us”) and Sarah Koskoff will create the show in consultation with several families directly affected by the tragedy and their attorneys.
Swicord, Koskoff and producer Mary Jane Skalski of Echo Lake Entertainment are teaming as executive producers to tell the story of the Sandy Hook case, which uncovered how a New York private equity firm purchased legacy American gun companies in the mid-2000s, effectively creating the equivalent of Big Pharma in the consumer arms industry. Swicord and Koskoff have followed the case closely and are consulting with several families who brought the lawsuit, as well as their attorney, Josh Koskoff (Sarah Koskoff’s brother).
Also Read:
‘The Daily Show': Dl Hughley Says Tucker Carlson...
Swicord, Koskoff and producer Mary Jane Skalski of Echo Lake Entertainment are teaming as executive producers to tell the story of the Sandy Hook case, which uncovered how a New York private equity firm purchased legacy American gun companies in the mid-2000s, effectively creating the equivalent of Big Pharma in the consumer arms industry. Swicord and Koskoff have followed the case closely and are consulting with several families who brought the lawsuit, as well as their attorney, Josh Koskoff (Sarah Koskoff’s brother).
Also Read:
‘The Daily Show': Dl Hughley Says Tucker Carlson...
- 2/1/2023
- by Natalie Oganesyan
- The Wrap
Exclusive: The Writers Lab has set Shari Albert (Fishtown), Stephanie Bast (FrankenFamily), Kelly Campbell (Pyramid Scheme), Shari Lynette Carpenter (Translate), Nic Cohen (Artemis One), Rebecca Dreyfus (Men), Gwen Goodkin (The Plant), Tamara Maloney & Maeve McQuillan (Darkened Room), Arianna Ortiz, Zuri Rice (Green Hill), Roses Urquhart (This Is My Body) and Robin Shanea Williams (Adrienne Is Always Single) as the participants and projects for its eighth annual lab, supporting women screenwriters over the age of 40.
Oscar winners Meryl Streep and Nicole Kidman have renewed their support for The Writers Lab, which will return to its in-person format for script development in 2022. The Lab has re-doubled its efforts to amplify the voices of women writers, calling for greater inclusion of their stories in film and television, in response to growing threats to women’s rights, with genre scripts (particularly comedies) and historical stories about pioneering women being seen most...
Oscar winners Meryl Streep and Nicole Kidman have renewed their support for The Writers Lab, which will return to its in-person format for script development in 2022. The Lab has re-doubled its efforts to amplify the voices of women writers, calling for greater inclusion of their stories in film and television, in response to growing threats to women’s rights, with genre scripts (particularly comedies) and historical stories about pioneering women being seen most...
- 9/20/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
In preparation for a summer return to in-person artist development labs, the Sundance Institute today named those selected as fellows for its 2022 Directors, Screenwriters and Native Labs.
Creatives developing original work for the screen as part of the Native Lab include Justin Ducharme (Positions), Taietsarón:sere ‘Tai’ Leclaire (How to Deal with Systemic Racism in the Afterlife), Daniel Pewewardy (Residential), Tiare Ribeaux (Huaka’i) and Tim Worrall (Ka Whawhai Tonu – Struggle Without End).
Those participating in the Directors Lab and/or the Screenwriters Lab include Dina Amer (Cain and Abel), Zandashé Brown (The Matriarch), Caledonia Curry and Meagan Brothers (Sibylant Sisters), Hasan Hadi (The President’s Cake), Michael León and Ashley Alvafez (Crabs in a Barrel), Eliza McNitt (Black Hole), Olive Nwosu (Lady), Neo Sora (Earthquake) and Yuan Yang (Late Spring).
The Native Lab began online from May 2-6 and continues in person from May 9-14, in Santa Fe, Nm, for...
Creatives developing original work for the screen as part of the Native Lab include Justin Ducharme (Positions), Taietsarón:sere ‘Tai’ Leclaire (How to Deal with Systemic Racism in the Afterlife), Daniel Pewewardy (Residential), Tiare Ribeaux (Huaka’i) and Tim Worrall (Ka Whawhai Tonu – Struggle Without End).
Those participating in the Directors Lab and/or the Screenwriters Lab include Dina Amer (Cain and Abel), Zandashé Brown (The Matriarch), Caledonia Curry and Meagan Brothers (Sibylant Sisters), Hasan Hadi (The President’s Cake), Michael León and Ashley Alvafez (Crabs in a Barrel), Eliza McNitt (Black Hole), Olive Nwosu (Lady), Neo Sora (Earthquake) and Yuan Yang (Late Spring).
The Native Lab began online from May 2-6 and continues in person from May 9-14, in Santa Fe, Nm, for...
- 5/9/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Film Independent has set Lanre Olabisi (A Storybook Ending), Sari Arambulo (Family Style), Sanford Jenkins (Joy and Pain), Rob Connolly (Lavender Country), Elise H. Greven (Silent Spring) and Phumi Morare (There is Salt in the Water) as the participants and projects for its 2022 Screenwriting Lab/
All of of this year’s participants are from communities underrepresented in film and half the participants are women. Over the course of the intensive program, they will workshop their feature projects under the guidance of creative advisors Javier Fuentes-León, Pamela Ribon, Ellen Shanman, Robin Swicord, and Christopher Makoto Yogi. Additional guest speakers and advisors will include Ruth Atkinson, Alex Camilleri, Angela Cheng Caplan, Kd Davila, Matthew Dy, Greta Fuentes, Sam Intili, Amanda Marshall, Alex Moratto, Sheila Hanahan Taylor and Elliott Whitton.
Film Independent also announced today that the inaugural Hyde Park Entertainment & Warner Music Group Screenwriting Fellowship is being awarded to Arambulo, who will...
All of of this year’s participants are from communities underrepresented in film and half the participants are women. Over the course of the intensive program, they will workshop their feature projects under the guidance of creative advisors Javier Fuentes-León, Pamela Ribon, Ellen Shanman, Robin Swicord, and Christopher Makoto Yogi. Additional guest speakers and advisors will include Ruth Atkinson, Alex Camilleri, Angela Cheng Caplan, Kd Davila, Matthew Dy, Greta Fuentes, Sam Intili, Amanda Marshall, Alex Moratto, Sheila Hanahan Taylor and Elliott Whitton.
Film Independent also announced today that the inaugural Hyde Park Entertainment & Warner Music Group Screenwriting Fellowship is being awarded to Arambulo, who will...
- 3/18/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Canadian-Lebanese co-production Valley Of Exile has wrapped after a challenging shoot which had to contend with Lebanon’s collapsing economy, the pandemic and a refugee camp setting.
The feature film debut of Iranian-Canadian writer-director Anna Fahr (My Life in Limbo) has wrapped principal photography in Beirut, Lebanon, after lensing for the most part in a real-life refugee settlement in Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley.
The indie feature follows the story of two Syrian sisters (played by non-professional actors) desperate to reunite with what remains of their family but who come to realize that their journey together into exile is ultimately a test of loyalty to each other. Above and below are first-look images from the film.
Produced by Toronto-based Morning Bird Pictures in collaboration with Beirut-based Placeless Films, the project was supported by Game Theory Films’ Black, Indigenous and People of Colour Distribution Fund. Fahr produces with Lara Abou Saifan.
The feature film debut of Iranian-Canadian writer-director Anna Fahr (My Life in Limbo) has wrapped principal photography in Beirut, Lebanon, after lensing for the most part in a real-life refugee settlement in Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley.
The indie feature follows the story of two Syrian sisters (played by non-professional actors) desperate to reunite with what remains of their family but who come to realize that their journey together into exile is ultimately a test of loyalty to each other. Above and below are first-look images from the film.
Produced by Toronto-based Morning Bird Pictures in collaboration with Beirut-based Placeless Films, the project was supported by Game Theory Films’ Black, Indigenous and People of Colour Distribution Fund. Fahr produces with Lara Abou Saifan.
- 1/13/2022
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Photo: ‘The Promise’ Today the Armenian people have found their home in the Glendale diaspora, placing their roots in the small but flourishing city and leaving imprints of their beautiful culture across it. Their story is a long but brave one, a story of families torn apart by the tragedies of the 1915 Armenian Genocide and then of their reunion in cities across the world. Often undermined in history, the Armenian Genocide lacked publicity by non-Armenian audiences until the film, ‘The Promise’ (2017) raised much-needed awareness. Directed by Belfast-born Terry George, and Robin Swicord, an American screenwriter, ‘The Promise’, offers an inside glimpse into the lives of Armenians backlit by the genocide and the beginnings of World War I and II, two closely tied events. Related article: Exclusive: 'Dune' Full Commentary, Reactions, Making Of - Timothee Chalamet, Zendaya, Oscar Isaac Related article: 'No Time to Die' Full Commentary, Behind the Scenes & Reactions,...
- 10/26/2021
- by Mireille Karadanaian
- Hollywood Insider - Substance & Meaningful Entertainment
Exclusive: M.Y.R.A. Entertainment, the film financing company that has credits including Terence Davies’ recent Toronto premiere Benediction, screening in San Sebastian this week, and Call Me By Your Name, is opening an office in Singapore as it eyes a move into Asian projects.
The all-female company founded by Margarethe Baillou has presences in New York and London; Baillou will now move to Singapore.
“Cultural diplomacy is now more important than ever. Cross-cultural misconceptions and racial prejudice are absolutely unacceptable. At M.Y.R.A., we gravitate toward stories that benefit global audiences, hence the ambition to familiarize ourselves with foreign cultures, be it geographically, sociologically or simply topic-related,” Baillou told Deadline.
“Having recently gone into animation, a genre elevated by outstanding talent across Asia, M.Y.R.A. hopes to learn from our Asian colleagues. Singapore will be the perfect gateway to the continent for us on the search for...
The all-female company founded by Margarethe Baillou has presences in New York and London; Baillou will now move to Singapore.
“Cultural diplomacy is now more important than ever. Cross-cultural misconceptions and racial prejudice are absolutely unacceptable. At M.Y.R.A., we gravitate toward stories that benefit global audiences, hence the ambition to familiarize ourselves with foreign cultures, be it geographically, sociologically or simply topic-related,” Baillou told Deadline.
“Having recently gone into animation, a genre elevated by outstanding talent across Asia, M.Y.R.A. hopes to learn from our Asian colleagues. Singapore will be the perfect gateway to the continent for us on the search for...
- 9/21/2021
- by Tom Grater
- Deadline Film + TV
The under-appreciated Stephen Graham and Andrea Riseborough have joined the cast of the upcoming remake of Roald Dahl’s classic children’s story ‘Matilda’ for Netflix and Tristar.
Graham and Riseborough will take on the roles of Matilda’s parents, Mr and Mrs Wormwood, comedian Sindhu Vee also joins the cast in the role of Mrs. Phelps the librarian. All three join the previously announced Alisha Weir who takes on the role of Matilda, Emma Thompson as cruel headmistress Miss Trunchbull, and Lashana Lynch as the kindly Miss Honey.
The musical adaptation centres on a young genius girl named Matilda Wormwood, who develops psychokinetic abilities and uses them to deal with her disreputable family and Agatha Trunchbull, the ruthless, oppressive and tyrannical principal of Crunchem Hall Elementary School.
Matthew Warchus will direct the film from a script by Dennis Kelly.
Also in news – Joel Edgerton, Kumail Nanjiani & more join ‘Obi-Wan...
Graham and Riseborough will take on the roles of Matilda’s parents, Mr and Mrs Wormwood, comedian Sindhu Vee also joins the cast in the role of Mrs. Phelps the librarian. All three join the previously announced Alisha Weir who takes on the role of Matilda, Emma Thompson as cruel headmistress Miss Trunchbull, and Lashana Lynch as the kindly Miss Honey.
The musical adaptation centres on a young genius girl named Matilda Wormwood, who develops psychokinetic abilities and uses them to deal with her disreputable family and Agatha Trunchbull, the ruthless, oppressive and tyrannical principal of Crunchem Hall Elementary School.
Matthew Warchus will direct the film from a script by Dennis Kelly.
Also in news – Joel Edgerton, Kumail Nanjiani & more join ‘Obi-Wan...
- 4/1/2021
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Sundance Institute on Wednesday announced two new funds that will contribute $100,000 each to Black, Indigenous and artists of color and arts organizations, specifically those whose work has been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.
The new funds follow Sundance’s Respond and Reimagine Fund, which doled out $1 million to other Bipoc artists who were disproportionally affected by the pandemic.
The first new fund, The Uprise Grant Fund, launches Wednesday with an open application and is intended for artists in particular. $100,000 will be dedicated to 25 emerging, U.S.-based Bipoc artists whose creative development was impacted by the pandemic. The unrestricted fund was created by Sundance Outreach and Inclusion Program and will support personal livelihoods and creative projects.
The second fund, the Arts Organization Fund, specifically goes to other arts groups, with $100,000 being contributed to eight to 10 U.S.-based organizations led by Bipoc and who are working in film, theater or emerging media.
The new funds follow Sundance’s Respond and Reimagine Fund, which doled out $1 million to other Bipoc artists who were disproportionally affected by the pandemic.
The first new fund, The Uprise Grant Fund, launches Wednesday with an open application and is intended for artists in particular. $100,000 will be dedicated to 25 emerging, U.S.-based Bipoc artists whose creative development was impacted by the pandemic. The unrestricted fund was created by Sundance Outreach and Inclusion Program and will support personal livelihoods and creative projects.
The second fund, the Arts Organization Fund, specifically goes to other arts groups, with $100,000 being contributed to eight to 10 U.S.-based organizations led by Bipoc and who are working in film, theater or emerging media.
- 3/10/2021
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Collaboration with Untamed Stories in UK, Spain’s Filmmarket Hub to expand reach beyond US for first time.
The Writers Lab in the US, the non-profit for female screenwriters over 40 that counts Meryl Streep and Nicole Kidman among its supporters, is partnering on an international platform with Untamed Stories in the UK and Spain’s Filmmarket Hub.
The collaboration will expand the reach of The Writers Lab beyond the US for the first time. Elizabeth Kaiden and Nitza Wilon co-founded the lab in 2015 and produce it with New York Women in Film & Television (Nywftv).
Online marketplace Filmarket Hub will...
The Writers Lab in the US, the non-profit for female screenwriters over 40 that counts Meryl Streep and Nicole Kidman among its supporters, is partnering on an international platform with Untamed Stories in the UK and Spain’s Filmmarket Hub.
The collaboration will expand the reach of The Writers Lab beyond the US for the first time. Elizabeth Kaiden and Nitza Wilon co-founded the lab in 2015 and produce it with New York Women in Film & Television (Nywftv).
Online marketplace Filmarket Hub will...
- 8/13/2020
- by 36¦Jeremy Kay¦54¦
- ScreenDaily
Netflix added two new films today. The first is a Christian Bale-starring period piece set in the Ottoman Empire titled The Promise, the other an Alexandra Daddario-led horror movie called We Summon the Darkness. And here’s what you need to know in case you want to check either one, or even both of them out at some point this weekend.
The Promise first released in 2016. It’s directed by Terry George and based on a script he wrote alongside Robin Swicord. Aside from Bale, who plays a supporting character, the film also stars Oscar Isaac, Charlotte Le Bon, Daniel Giménez Cacho, Shohreh Aghdashloo and Marwan Kenzari.
As mentioned, the movie is set during the final days of the Ottoman Empire. Location aside, it’s centered on a love triangle between a talented medical student, a famous American journalist and a young and beautiful woman. Where fans of...
The Promise first released in 2016. It’s directed by Terry George and based on a script he wrote alongside Robin Swicord. Aside from Bale, who plays a supporting character, the film also stars Oscar Isaac, Charlotte Le Bon, Daniel Giménez Cacho, Shohreh Aghdashloo and Marwan Kenzari.
As mentioned, the movie is set during the final days of the Ottoman Empire. Location aside, it’s centered on a love triangle between a talented medical student, a famous American journalist and a young and beautiful woman. Where fans of...
- 8/8/2020
- by Tim Brinkhof
- We Got This Covered
With new cases spiking across the country, a second round of mandatory quarantine and social distancing appears to be more likely than ever. For some states, it’s already a reality. Fear not, however, because this time – like last time – Netflix will be there to keep you company throughout your lonely indoor days.
The coronavirus pandemic has boosted people’s appetite for content and Netflix, among other platforms, have reported a substantial increase in its subscriber base while other businesses in the entertainment industry are flailing. It’s not all sunshine and rainbows, though, as each week the streamer needs to find more and more content to satiate viewers. This time around, Netflix has gotten its hands on a forgotten Christian Bale movie, which just hit the site today.
The Promise first released back in 2016. Directed by Terry George and based on a script he co-authored with Robin Swicord, it stars Oscar Isaac,...
The coronavirus pandemic has boosted people’s appetite for content and Netflix, among other platforms, have reported a substantial increase in its subscriber base while other businesses in the entertainment industry are flailing. It’s not all sunshine and rainbows, though, as each week the streamer needs to find more and more content to satiate viewers. This time around, Netflix has gotten its hands on a forgotten Christian Bale movie, which just hit the site today.
The Promise first released back in 2016. Directed by Terry George and based on a script he co-authored with Robin Swicord, it stars Oscar Isaac,...
- 8/8/2020
- by Tim Brinkhof
- We Got This Covered
Ralph Fiennes is attached to the latest feature film adaptation of Roald Dahl’s novel ‘Matilda’.
Fiennes will play the role of the abusive headmistress Miss Trunchbull.
The story centres on a young genius girl named Matilda Wormwood, who develops psychokinetic abilities and uses them to deal with her disreputable family and Agatha Trunchbull, the ruthless, oppressive and tyrannical principal of Crunchem Hall Elementary School.
Matthew Warchus will direct the film from a script by Dennis Kelly.
Also in news – Sylvester Stallone confirms ‘Demolition Man 2’ is in development
‘Matilda’ previously hit the big screen back in 1996. The family comedy fantasy was co-produced and directed by Danny DeVito from a screenplay written by Nicholas Kazan and Robin Swicord. The film starred Mara Wilson as the title character with DeVito, Rhea Perlman, Embeth Davidtz, and Pam Ferris in supporting roles. Even though it bombed at the box office at the time, the...
Fiennes will play the role of the abusive headmistress Miss Trunchbull.
The story centres on a young genius girl named Matilda Wormwood, who develops psychokinetic abilities and uses them to deal with her disreputable family and Agatha Trunchbull, the ruthless, oppressive and tyrannical principal of Crunchem Hall Elementary School.
Matthew Warchus will direct the film from a script by Dennis Kelly.
Also in news – Sylvester Stallone confirms ‘Demolition Man 2’ is in development
‘Matilda’ previously hit the big screen back in 1996. The family comedy fantasy was co-produced and directed by Danny DeVito from a screenplay written by Nicholas Kazan and Robin Swicord. The film starred Mara Wilson as the title character with DeVito, Rhea Perlman, Embeth Davidtz, and Pam Ferris in supporting roles. Even though it bombed at the box office at the time, the...
- 5/5/2020
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Greta Gerwig’s fresh, unique and modern adaptation of the timeless Louisa May Alcott masterpiece Little Women comes home on Digital March 10 and Blu-ray and DVD April 7 from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment.
The Blu-ray, DVD and digital releases will take viewers even deeper into the beloved story of Jo, Meg, Amy and Beth with over 45 minutes of fascinating bonus features. See how Writer/Director Greta Gerwig led this modern adaptation of a literary classic with a magnificent new cast, incredible art direction, elaborate costumes, set pieces and how she took inspiration from the real-life Orchard House where Louisa May Alcott lived and wrote Little Women.
Writer-director Greta Gerwig (Lady Bird) has crafted a Little Women that draws on both the classic novel and the writings of Louisa May Alcott, and unfolds as the author’s alter ego, Jo March, reflects back and forth on her fictional life.
The Blu-ray, DVD and digital releases will take viewers even deeper into the beloved story of Jo, Meg, Amy and Beth with over 45 minutes of fascinating bonus features. See how Writer/Director Greta Gerwig led this modern adaptation of a literary classic with a magnificent new cast, incredible art direction, elaborate costumes, set pieces and how she took inspiration from the real-life Orchard House where Louisa May Alcott lived and wrote Little Women.
Writer-director Greta Gerwig (Lady Bird) has crafted a Little Women that draws on both the classic novel and the writings of Louisa May Alcott, and unfolds as the author’s alter ego, Jo March, reflects back and forth on her fictional life.
- 3/24/2020
- by Tom Stockman
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Culver City, Calif. – Nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Greta Gerwig’s fresh, unique and modern adaptation of the timeless Louisa May Alcott masterpiece Little Women comes home on Digital March 10 and Blu-ray and DVD April 7 from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment. The Blu-ray, DVD and digital releases will take viewers even deeper into the beloved story of Jo, Meg, Amy and Beth with over 45 minutes of fascinating bonus features. See how Writer/Director Greta Gerwig led this modern adaptation of a literary classic with a magnificent new cast, incredible art direction, elaborate costumes, set pieces and how she took inspiration from the real-life Orchard House where Louisa May Alcott lived and wrote Little Women.
Writer-director Greta Gerwig (Lady Bird) has crafted a Little Women that draws on both the classic novel and the writings of Louisa May Alcott, and unfolds as the author’s alter ego, Jo March,...
Writer-director Greta Gerwig (Lady Bird) has crafted a Little Women that draws on both the classic novel and the writings of Louisa May Alcott, and unfolds as the author’s alter ego, Jo March,...
- 2/11/2020
- by ComicMix Staff
- Comicmix.com
Throughout its history, the Academy Awards has been subject to intense criticism for the issues it embraces — and ignores. This year’s uproar over the lack of diversity among nominations in the highest-profile awards categories is the latest example. This failure reflects a chronic dearth of opportunity at Hollywood’s top artistic and financial levels. The milestone nominations for best picture for “BlacKkKlansman” and “Black Panther” last year or the victory of “12 Years a Slave” in 2014 seem like aberrations.
That lack of diversity also means a missed financial opportunity due to Hollywood’s unwillingness to take reasonable risks. This is largely because the studios’ frequently white, male decision-makers and prominent public figures represent decades-old demographics and thinking. The audience for theatrical movies is now dramatically more diverse in the United States and internationally.
In the 2017 report on the Hollywood workforce, “New Skills at Work: Keeping Los Angeles at the...
That lack of diversity also means a missed financial opportunity due to Hollywood’s unwillingness to take reasonable risks. This is largely because the studios’ frequently white, male decision-makers and prominent public figures represent decades-old demographics and thinking. The audience for theatrical movies is now dramatically more diverse in the United States and internationally.
In the 2017 report on the Hollywood workforce, “New Skills at Work: Keeping Los Angeles at the...
- 2/5/2020
- by Kevin Klowden
- Variety Film + TV
Because of the rigid voting rules for the Oscars, Greta Gerwig was not able to vote for herself for best director for “Little Women.” When Gerwig was asked to be a member of the Academy in 2016, she was invited as an actor, and therefore that’s the sole branch in which she votes — even after a year when she wrote and directed a movie that ended up being nominated for best picture.
Gerwig remembers this Academy oddity while discussing not being nominated in the director category, an omission that was widely perceived, by everyone from Hillary Clinton to the cast of “Saturday Night Live,” to be the single biggest snub of this year’s nominations. Though Gerwig says she had no expectations of being nominated, “there was clearly a chance,” she says with a laugh. “There’s probably a handful of votes that went that way. I mean, mine did — oh no,...
Gerwig remembers this Academy oddity while discussing not being nominated in the director category, an omission that was widely perceived, by everyone from Hillary Clinton to the cast of “Saturday Night Live,” to be the single biggest snub of this year’s nominations. Though Gerwig says she had no expectations of being nominated, “there was clearly a chance,” she says with a laugh. “There’s probably a handful of votes that went that way. I mean, mine did — oh no,...
- 2/4/2020
- by Kate Aurthur
- Variety Film + TV
The Producers Guild of America has revealed its nominees in the motion picture and television categories for its 31st Annual Producers Guild Awards; nominees include recent Golden Globe winners “1917,” “Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood,” “Missing Link,” “Succession,” “Fleabag” and “Chernobyl.”
The PGA, which has about 8,200 members, has matched the Oscar for best picture in 21 of its 30 years, including “The Green Book” last year and “The Shape of Water” in 2018.
The PGA uses a preferential balloting system that’s similar to that employed by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. The PGA and AMPAS both expanded their voting for the top film to 10 nominees in 2009. About three-quarters of the PGA’s Zanuck nominees wind up as Oscar best picture nominees.
On the TV side, among all of the drama and comedy nominees, only “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” (last year’s comedy winner) is a repeat from last year.
The PGA, which has about 8,200 members, has matched the Oscar for best picture in 21 of its 30 years, including “The Green Book” last year and “The Shape of Water” in 2018.
The PGA uses a preferential balloting system that’s similar to that employed by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. The PGA and AMPAS both expanded their voting for the top film to 10 nominees in 2009. About three-quarters of the PGA’s Zanuck nominees wind up as Oscar best picture nominees.
On the TV side, among all of the drama and comedy nominees, only “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” (last year’s comedy winner) is a repeat from last year.
- 1/7/2020
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
The Producers Guild has unveiled nominations for its 31st annual PGA Awards, listing nominees for the year’s best-produced works in motion pictures and television categories. The awards will be presented January 18 at the Hollywood Palladium.
Often a bellwether for the Oscars, the ten films nominated include Sam Mendes’ World War I epic 1917, Twentieth Century Fox/Chernin Entertainment’s Ford V Ferrari, Netflix’s The Irishman, Taika Waititi-directed Jojo Rabbit, Sony’s Little Women, Netflix’s Marriage Story, Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon A Time in Hollywood and Bong Jong Ho’s black comedy thriller Parasite.
HBO dominated the drama series field with four of the five nominees, Big Little Lies (season 2), Game of Thrones, Succession and Watchmen, joined by Netflix’s The Crown (season 3).
Here’s the full list of PGA Award nominees:
The Darryl F. Zanuck Award for Outstanding Producer of Theatrical Motion Pictures
1917
Producers: Sam Mendes,...
Often a bellwether for the Oscars, the ten films nominated include Sam Mendes’ World War I epic 1917, Twentieth Century Fox/Chernin Entertainment’s Ford V Ferrari, Netflix’s The Irishman, Taika Waititi-directed Jojo Rabbit, Sony’s Little Women, Netflix’s Marriage Story, Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon A Time in Hollywood and Bong Jong Ho’s black comedy thriller Parasite.
HBO dominated the drama series field with four of the five nominees, Big Little Lies (season 2), Game of Thrones, Succession and Watchmen, joined by Netflix’s The Crown (season 3).
Here’s the full list of PGA Award nominees:
The Darryl F. Zanuck Award for Outstanding Producer of Theatrical Motion Pictures
1917
Producers: Sam Mendes,...
- 1/7/2020
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Newly knighted Sir Sam Mendes mixed with onscreen sovereigns (from “The Crown” and “Game of Thrones”) and Hollywood royalty at the 20th annual AFI Awards, presented Jan. 4 at the Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills.
Mendes was there representing “1917,” one of the 22 film and TV works saluted by the awards. Though the guest list was regal, the mood is always relaxed, since there are no TV cameras, no acceptance speeches, no pressure and no suspense: honorees were announced on Dec. 4.
Walt Disney Television’s Peter Rice schmoozed with Netflix’s Ted Sarandos, Billy Porter chatted with Kit Harington, and Laura Dern was deep in conversation with Pitt as other guests talked on subjects ranging from Iran to the accelerated Oscar schedule; all of them offered mutual congratulations for a year that was exception for both films and TV works.
Aside from “1917,” the chosen movies were “The Farewell,” “The Irishman,” “Jojo Rabbit,...
Mendes was there representing “1917,” one of the 22 film and TV works saluted by the awards. Though the guest list was regal, the mood is always relaxed, since there are no TV cameras, no acceptance speeches, no pressure and no suspense: honorees were announced on Dec. 4.
Walt Disney Television’s Peter Rice schmoozed with Netflix’s Ted Sarandos, Billy Porter chatted with Kit Harington, and Laura Dern was deep in conversation with Pitt as other guests talked on subjects ranging from Iran to the accelerated Oscar schedule; all of them offered mutual congratulations for a year that was exception for both films and TV works.
Aside from “1917,” the chosen movies were “The Farewell,” “The Irishman,” “Jojo Rabbit,...
- 1/4/2020
- by Tim Gray
- Variety Film + TV
The Chicago Indie Critics announced their nominees Saturday for the group’s fourth annual film awards, with Greta Gerwig’s adaptation of Little Women leading with eight nominations, including Best Studio Film and Best Director.
Following next with seven nominations each were The Irishman, Marriage Story, 1917, and Parasite.
Winners will be announced on January 4, at the Cards Against Humanity Theater in Chicago. Stand-up comedian and former film critic Katie Baker is set to host the ceremony, which will stream live on YouTube.
Following next with seven nominations each were The Irishman, Marriage Story, 1917, and Parasite.
Winners will be announced on January 4, at the Cards Against Humanity Theater in Chicago. Stand-up comedian and former film critic Katie Baker is set to host the ceremony, which will stream live on YouTube.
- 12/29/2019
- by Anita Bennett
- Deadline Film + TV
Writer-director Greta Gerwig (Lady Bird) has crafted a Little Women that draws on both the classic novel and the writings of Louisa May Alcott, and unfolds as the author’s alter ego, Jo March, reflects back and forth on her fictional life. In Gerwig’s take, the beloved story of the March sisters – four young women each determined to live life on her own terms — is both timeless and timely. Portraying Jo, Meg, Amy, and Beth March, the film stars Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, Florence Pugh, Eliza Scanlen, with Timothée Chalamet as their neighbor Laurie, Laura Dern as Marmee, and Meryl Streep as Aunt March.
Directed by Greta Gerwig. Screenplay by Greta Gerwig. Based on the Novel by Louisa May Alcott. Produced by Amy Pascal, Denise Di Novi and Robin Swicord. Executive Producers are Adam Merims, Evelyn O’Neill, Rachel O’Connor and Arnon Milchan. The film stars Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson,...
Directed by Greta Gerwig. Screenplay by Greta Gerwig. Based on the Novel by Louisa May Alcott. Produced by Amy Pascal, Denise Di Novi and Robin Swicord. Executive Producers are Adam Merims, Evelyn O’Neill, Rachel O’Connor and Arnon Milchan. The film stars Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson,...
- 12/11/2019
- by Movie Geeks
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Greta Gerwig’s sophomore solo directorial outing, a new take on the beloved Louisa May Alcott novel “Little Women,” has already pulled in plenty of fans (including this critic) in advance of its Christmas Day release. The film currently boasts a 97% Fresh rating over on Rotten Tomatoes, and with a month to go until its theatrical release, anticipation over its awards season chances is at a fever pitch. But what of the other lauded adaptation of the Alcott novel, Gillian Armstrong’s 1994 take on the classic tale?
Armstrong’s version, often credited as the modern definitive take on Alcott’s work (which has spawned over a dozen film and television takes over the years), boasted an all-star cast (Winona Ryder! Susan Sarandon! Christian Bale!) and was nominated for three Oscars. While Rotten Tomatoes was not around during that film’s release, the review aggregator long ago compiled enough past reviews...
Armstrong’s version, often credited as the modern definitive take on Alcott’s work (which has spawned over a dozen film and television takes over the years), boasted an all-star cast (Winona Ryder! Susan Sarandon! Christian Bale!) and was nominated for three Oscars. While Rotten Tomatoes was not around during that film’s release, the review aggregator long ago compiled enough past reviews...
- 11/26/2019
- by Kate Erbland
- Indiewire
Sarah Michelle Gellar has set up her second starring vehicle at Fox this development season.
Variety has confirmed that Gellar is attached to star in the limited drama series “Sometimes I Lie,” based on Alice Feeney’s novel of the same name and which has received a script commitment with a penalty attached at the broadcaster.
In the series, Amber Reynolds (Gellar) is in a coma. She can’t remember how she got there, but she knows it wasn’t an accident. Terrified and trapped in her own body, she tries to piece together her memories of the last week. With a husband who no longer loves her, a sister hiding a dangerous secret, and an ex-boyfriend who can’t let go of her, Amber knows someone is lying – and that her life is still very much in danger. The show will alternate between the present, a week before her accident,...
Variety has confirmed that Gellar is attached to star in the limited drama series “Sometimes I Lie,” based on Alice Feeney’s novel of the same name and which has received a script commitment with a penalty attached at the broadcaster.
In the series, Amber Reynolds (Gellar) is in a coma. She can’t remember how she got there, but she knows it wasn’t an accident. Terrified and trapped in her own body, she tries to piece together her memories of the last week. With a husband who no longer loves her, a sister hiding a dangerous secret, and an ex-boyfriend who can’t let go of her, Amber knows someone is lying – and that her life is still very much in danger. The show will alternate between the present, a week before her accident,...
- 11/13/2019
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Sarah Michelle Gellar has a second project in development at Fox. The broadcast network has given a script commitment (with penalty attached) to the limited series “Sometimes I Lie,” starring Gellar and produced by Ellen DeGeneres.
The one-hour drama is based on Alice Feeney’s novel of the same name and centers on Amber Reynolds (Gellar), who is in a coma and, according to the logline, “she can’t remember how she got there, but she knows it wasn’t an accident.”
“Terrified and trapped in her own body, she tries to piece together her memories of the last week,” the description says. “With a husband who no longer loves her, a sister hiding a dangerous secret, and an ex-boyfriend who can’t let go of her, Amber knows someone is lying – and that her life is still very much in danger. Alternating between her paralyzed present, the week before her accident,...
The one-hour drama is based on Alice Feeney’s novel of the same name and centers on Amber Reynolds (Gellar), who is in a coma and, according to the logline, “she can’t remember how she got there, but she knows it wasn’t an accident.”
“Terrified and trapped in her own body, she tries to piece together her memories of the last week,” the description says. “With a husband who no longer loves her, a sister hiding a dangerous secret, and an ex-boyfriend who can’t let go of her, Amber knows someone is lying – and that her life is still very much in danger. Alternating between her paralyzed present, the week before her accident,...
- 11/13/2019
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
Fox has given a script commitment plus penalty to Sometimes I Lie, a limited series starring and executive produced by Buffy the Vampire Slayer alumna Sarah Michelle Gellar. The project, based on former BBC journalist Alice Feeney’s debut novel, hails from Oscar-nominated writer Robin Swicord (The Curious Case of Benjamin Button), Ellen DeGeneres’ A Very Good Production,Warner Bros TV whether the company is based, and Fox Entertainment.
Rex/Shuttesrstock
Penned by Swicord, Sometimes I Lie stars Gellar as Amber Reynolds who is in a coma. She can’t remember how she got there, but she knows it wasn’t an accident. Terrified and trapped in her own body, she tries to piece together her memories of the last week. With a husband who no longer loves her, a sister hiding a dangerous secret, and an ex-boyfriend who can’t let go of her, Amber knows someone is lying...
Rex/Shuttesrstock
Penned by Swicord, Sometimes I Lie stars Gellar as Amber Reynolds who is in a coma. She can’t remember how she got there, but she knows it wasn’t an accident. Terrified and trapped in her own body, she tries to piece together her memories of the last week. With a husband who no longer loves her, a sister hiding a dangerous secret, and an ex-boyfriend who can’t let go of her, Amber knows someone is lying...
- 11/13/2019
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Skipping the festival circuit just as Bombshell did, Sony’s holiday-season gift, Little Women, was unveiled Wednesday night at a DGA Theater screening for SAG and select media, putting another piece of the Oscar puzzle into clearer focus. Greta Gerwig wrote and directed and, if you wondered after seven — count ’em — seven film versions if we really needed an eighth, the answer is yes. Gerwig has found a way to take this pre-Victorian period piece about the lives and loves of four sisters and make it vital for audiences today. Setting it completely apart from previous versions, she tells the story of the March family in a risky, nonlinear style that pays off nicely.
The turnaway crowd at the DGA rewarded Gerwig with a standing ovation when she was introduced for the postscreening Q&a (she also had appeared briefly to introduce it). She joined cast members Laura Dern, who plays the mother,...
The turnaway crowd at the DGA rewarded Gerwig with a standing ovation when she was introduced for the postscreening Q&a (she also had appeared briefly to introduce it). She joined cast members Laura Dern, who plays the mother,...
- 10/24/2019
- by Pete Hammond
- Deadline Film + TV
A new trailer for Greta Gerwig’s adaptation of ‘Little Women’ has arrived filled with a stellar female cast.
The film stars Meryl Streep, Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, Timothée Chalamet, Florence Pugh, Eliza Scanlen, Laura Dern, James Norton, Louis Garrel, Bob Odenkirk, Chris Cooper and Abby Quinn.
Gerwig has adapted the screenplay, Amy Pascal will produce alongside Denise Di Novi and Robin Swicord.
‘Little Women’ is a novel by American author Louisa May Alcott (1832–1888), which was originally published in two volumes in 1868 and 1869. Alcott wrote the books over several months at the request of her publisher. Following the lives of the four March sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy—the novel details their passage from childhood to womanhood and is loosely based on the author and her three sisters.
Also in trailers – Aaron Taylor-Johnson fights his addiction in trailer for ‘A Million Little Pieces’
The film is released in the...
The film stars Meryl Streep, Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, Timothée Chalamet, Florence Pugh, Eliza Scanlen, Laura Dern, James Norton, Louis Garrel, Bob Odenkirk, Chris Cooper and Abby Quinn.
Gerwig has adapted the screenplay, Amy Pascal will produce alongside Denise Di Novi and Robin Swicord.
‘Little Women’ is a novel by American author Louisa May Alcott (1832–1888), which was originally published in two volumes in 1868 and 1869. Alcott wrote the books over several months at the request of her publisher. Following the lives of the four March sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy—the novel details their passage from childhood to womanhood and is loosely based on the author and her three sisters.
Also in trailers – Aaron Taylor-Johnson fights his addiction in trailer for ‘A Million Little Pieces’
The film is released in the...
- 8/13/2019
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
In today’s film news roundup, the Gotham Awards have been set for Dec. 2, “The Twentieth Century” and “Feast of the Seven Fishes” are acquired and The Writers Lab selects a dozen participants.
Awards Date
The Independent Filmmaker Project announced that the 29th Ifp Gotham Awards will take place this year at Cipriani in New York City on Dec. 2.
The Gotham Awards are one of the first major shows during awards season. Submissions for the competitive categories opened Thursday and close on Sept. 19. Categories include Best Feature, Best Documentary, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Screenplay, Breakthrough Actor, the Bingham Ray Breakthrough Director Award and two television categories – Breakthrough Series (over 40 minutes) and Breakthrough Series (under 40 minutes).
Last year, Chloe Zhao’s “The Rider” won the Best Feature Award, following previous winners “Call Me By Your Name,” “Moonlight,” “Spotlight” and “Birdman.”
Nominees will be announced Oct. 24.
Acquisitions
Oscilloscope Laboratories has acquired U.
Awards Date
The Independent Filmmaker Project announced that the 29th Ifp Gotham Awards will take place this year at Cipriani in New York City on Dec. 2.
The Gotham Awards are one of the first major shows during awards season. Submissions for the competitive categories opened Thursday and close on Sept. 19. Categories include Best Feature, Best Documentary, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Screenplay, Breakthrough Actor, the Bingham Ray Breakthrough Director Award and two television categories – Breakthrough Series (over 40 minutes) and Breakthrough Series (under 40 minutes).
Last year, Chloe Zhao’s “The Rider” won the Best Feature Award, following previous winners “Call Me By Your Name,” “Moonlight,” “Spotlight” and “Birdman.”
Nominees will be announced Oct. 24.
Acquisitions
Oscilloscope Laboratories has acquired U.
- 8/2/2019
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
“When They See Us” writer and director Ava DuVernay still talks to the real-life subjects of the series almost every day.
“This morning I talked to three of them,” said DuVernay at a Tuesday night screening for the four-part Netflix series, which tells the true story of the five black and Latino boys who came to be known as the Central Park Five through their arrest, imprisonment and eventual exoneration. DuVernay first met one of the five, Raymond Santana Jr., in 2014, after he reached out to her on Twitter. Since then, she says she’s developed close relationships with all of them.
“These are my brothers, I’ve gotten to know these men for four years, I’ve sat in their homes, I’ve met their families,” said DuVernay.
“We talk a lot and it’s not even about this, it’s like, Korey’s moving into a new apartment,...
“This morning I talked to three of them,” said DuVernay at a Tuesday night screening for the four-part Netflix series, which tells the true story of the five black and Latino boys who came to be known as the Central Park Five through their arrest, imprisonment and eventual exoneration. DuVernay first met one of the five, Raymond Santana Jr., in 2014, after he reached out to her on Twitter. Since then, she says she’s developed close relationships with all of them.
“These are my brothers, I’ve gotten to know these men for four years, I’ve sat in their homes, I’ve met their families,” said DuVernay.
“We talk a lot and it’s not even about this, it’s like, Korey’s moving into a new apartment,...
- 6/19/2019
- by Kylie Charney-Harrington
- The Wrap
Ava DuVernay says she isn’t surprised by President Trump’s recent comments about the Central Park Five, only that it took him so long to make them.
“It’s expected. I just don’t think it’s that much, it’s not a big deal to me,” DuVernay said Tuesday night at a screening of her Netflix series “When They See Us,” which chronicles the arrest, imprisonment and eventual exoneration of the Central Park five.
“There’s nothing that he says or does in relation to this case, in relation to the lives of five people of color, that really has any weight to it or truth to it,” DuVernay continued. “It’s not our reality, it’s not truthful. We already know this, so it’s kind of like, why do we keep banging our head against the wall about it? I’m surprised it took him so long.
“It’s expected. I just don’t think it’s that much, it’s not a big deal to me,” DuVernay said Tuesday night at a screening of her Netflix series “When They See Us,” which chronicles the arrest, imprisonment and eventual exoneration of the Central Park five.
“There’s nothing that he says or does in relation to this case, in relation to the lives of five people of color, that really has any weight to it or truth to it,” DuVernay continued. “It’s not our reality, it’s not truthful. We already know this, so it’s kind of like, why do we keep banging our head against the wall about it? I’m surprised it took him so long.
- 6/19/2019
- by Margeaux Sippell
- The Wrap
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