Amazon Prime Video’s “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” is taking this Emmy race seriously.
With stars Donald Glover and Maya Erskine leading the charge, “Mr. & Mrs. Smith,” which draws inspiration from the 2005 movie featuring Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, is set to compete in the drama categories at this year’s awards ceremony.
Crafted by Glover and Francesca Sloane, the show’s debut season stretches across eight episodes, centering on John and Jane Smith, secret agents who pose as a married couple while working for a shadowy corporation. Its blend of comedy and drama offered the potential to categorize it in either genre for awards consideration.
Read: All Primetime Emmy predictions in every category on Variety’s Awards Circuit.
Glover, already an Emmy favorite for his role in FX’s “Atlanta,” is in contention for five Emmy nods this year: drama series, actor in a drama series, directing in...
With stars Donald Glover and Maya Erskine leading the charge, “Mr. & Mrs. Smith,” which draws inspiration from the 2005 movie featuring Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, is set to compete in the drama categories at this year’s awards ceremony.
Crafted by Glover and Francesca Sloane, the show’s debut season stretches across eight episodes, centering on John and Jane Smith, secret agents who pose as a married couple while working for a shadowy corporation. Its blend of comedy and drama offered the potential to categorize it in either genre for awards consideration.
Read: All Primetime Emmy predictions in every category on Variety’s Awards Circuit.
Glover, already an Emmy favorite for his role in FX’s “Atlanta,” is in contention for five Emmy nods this year: drama series, actor in a drama series, directing in...
- 4/4/2024
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
Emmy and BAFTA nominee Dominique Fishback is set to receive the Culture Certified award at The Creative Collective’s inaugural Creative Class celebration.
The Culture Certified award will honor both established and emerging Black talent and seeks to recognize individuals whose contributions “significantly impact, influence, and shape cultural landscapes at large.” The special award is presented by the Create Collective (Ccnyc) in partnership with Prime Video’s Culture Rated initiative, which champions Black creatives, perspectives, and community across social media, on Prime Video and with in-person events, like CultureCon.
The prize marks the latest accolade for Fishback, who experienced a breakout year in 2023. She earned her first Emmy nomination for her buzzworthy performance as Dre in the Prime Video series “Swarm.” Fishback also earned nods from the Indie Spirit Awards, Gotham Awards, the NAACP Image Awards and more for her transformative work in the psychological comic thriller from co-creators Janine Nabers and Donald Glover.
The Culture Certified award will honor both established and emerging Black talent and seeks to recognize individuals whose contributions “significantly impact, influence, and shape cultural landscapes at large.” The special award is presented by the Create Collective (Ccnyc) in partnership with Prime Video’s Culture Rated initiative, which champions Black creatives, perspectives, and community across social media, on Prime Video and with in-person events, like CultureCon.
The prize marks the latest accolade for Fishback, who experienced a breakout year in 2023. She earned her first Emmy nomination for her buzzworthy performance as Dre in the Prime Video series “Swarm.” Fishback also earned nods from the Indie Spirit Awards, Gotham Awards, the NAACP Image Awards and more for her transformative work in the psychological comic thriller from co-creators Janine Nabers and Donald Glover.
- 2/26/2024
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Film enthusiasts and lovers of cinema came together at the 6th Annual Kodak Film Awards honoring Ava DuVernay, Andrew Haigh, Celine Song, Hoyte van Hoytema, Killer Films, Petra Collins, and Amazon’s Swarm. The event took place at the American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) Clubhouse on Friday, Feb. 23, 2024.
Attendees at the event included Adamma Ebo, Kara Brown, Karen Joseph Adcock, Phoebe Darling, Tyler Shields, Pip White, Matthew J. Lloyd and Keith Davis.
Renowned production company Killer Films received the Film Production Company of the Year award at the 6th Annual Kodak Film Awards, which producer Christine Vachon accepted.
Vachon, who co-founded the independent production company Killer Films alongside Pamela Koffler in 1995, was honored with the Film Production Company of the Year award. Most recently, Killer Films produced two Academy Award-nominated films, Past Lives and May December.
Ava DuVernay, acclaimed for her latest film Origin, and Andrew Haigh, of the critically lauded All of Us Strangers,...
Attendees at the event included Adamma Ebo, Kara Brown, Karen Joseph Adcock, Phoebe Darling, Tyler Shields, Pip White, Matthew J. Lloyd and Keith Davis.
Renowned production company Killer Films received the Film Production Company of the Year award at the 6th Annual Kodak Film Awards, which producer Christine Vachon accepted.
Vachon, who co-founded the independent production company Killer Films alongside Pamela Koffler in 1995, was honored with the Film Production Company of the Year award. Most recently, Killer Films produced two Academy Award-nominated films, Past Lives and May December.
Ava DuVernay, acclaimed for her latest film Origin, and Andrew Haigh, of the critically lauded All of Us Strangers,...
- 2/24/2024
- by Robert Lang
- Deadline Film + TV
The sixth annual Kodak Film Awards announced their honorees, to be feted at an invitation-only event on Feb. 23 at the American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) Clubhouse in Los Angeles.
Origin writer-director Ava DuVernay and All of Us Strangers writer-director Andrew Haigh will both receive the Auteur Award in recognition of their exceptional directorial achievements. Oscar nominee Celine Song will also be honored at the event, receiving the Debut Feature Award for A24’s Past Lives.
Killer Films, which produced Past Lives, will receive the Film Production Company of the Year Award. Christine Vachon, the prolific producer who earned her first Oscar nomination this year for the Greta Lee-starring project, will accept the award on behalf of the company she cofounded in 1995 with fellow Oscar nominee Pamela Koffler.
Additionally, Prime Video’s three-time Emmy-nominated limited series Swarm is slated to be honored with the Television Series of the Year Award,...
Origin writer-director Ava DuVernay and All of Us Strangers writer-director Andrew Haigh will both receive the Auteur Award in recognition of their exceptional directorial achievements. Oscar nominee Celine Song will also be honored at the event, receiving the Debut Feature Award for A24’s Past Lives.
Killer Films, which produced Past Lives, will receive the Film Production Company of the Year Award. Christine Vachon, the prolific producer who earned her first Oscar nomination this year for the Greta Lee-starring project, will accept the award on behalf of the company she cofounded in 1995 with fellow Oscar nominee Pamela Koffler.
Additionally, Prime Video’s three-time Emmy-nominated limited series Swarm is slated to be honored with the Television Series of the Year Award,...
- 2/20/2024
- by Tyler Coates
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
It’s been a big start to 2024 for Colman Domingo and Ayo Edebiri who — after earning their first Oscar nomination and Emmy win, respectively — lead the pack of film and TV nominees for the 55th NAACP Image Awards.
Domingo is nominated for three awards: outstanding actor in a motion picture for “Rustin,” outstanding supporting actor for “The Color Purple” and entertainer of the year, the ceremony’s top prize.
Edebiri is nominated for outstanding supporting actress for “The Bear” and guest actress for “Abbott Elementary.” Victoria Monét received the most nominations in the music recording categories, earning six nods including outstanding new artist. The “Jaguar II” hitmaker is followed closely by Usher, who earned five nominations including entertainer of the year.
Fantasia Barrino, Halle Bailey and Keke Palmer — three multihyphenate talents who happened to share the screen with Domingo and Usher this year — round out the nominees for that award.
Domingo is nominated for three awards: outstanding actor in a motion picture for “Rustin,” outstanding supporting actor for “The Color Purple” and entertainer of the year, the ceremony’s top prize.
Edebiri is nominated for outstanding supporting actress for “The Bear” and guest actress for “Abbott Elementary.” Victoria Monét received the most nominations in the music recording categories, earning six nods including outstanding new artist. The “Jaguar II” hitmaker is followed closely by Usher, who earned five nominations including entertainer of the year.
Fantasia Barrino, Halle Bailey and Keke Palmer — three multihyphenate talents who happened to share the screen with Domingo and Usher this year — round out the nominees for that award.
- 1/25/2024
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Malia Obama is bringing her award-winning short film “The Heart” to Sundance.
The live-action short, which Obama wrote and directed using her middle name Malia Ann, previously screened at Telluride 2023 and won the Best Live Action Short award at the Chicago International Film Festival. “The Heart” follows a grieving son as he tries to carry out an obscure request left in his deceased mother’s will.
Obama is the 25-year-old daughter of former U.S. President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama. She previously worked in the “Swarm” writers room, served as a production assistant on CBS series “Extant,” and held internships on HBO series “Girls” and at the Weinstein Company.
In Obama’s Sundance “Meet the Artist” video, the filmmaker calls “The Heart” an “odd little story, somewhat of a fable.”
Obama added, “The film is about lost objects and lonely people and forgiveness and regret, but I...
The live-action short, which Obama wrote and directed using her middle name Malia Ann, previously screened at Telluride 2023 and won the Best Live Action Short award at the Chicago International Film Festival. “The Heart” follows a grieving son as he tries to carry out an obscure request left in his deceased mother’s will.
Obama is the 25-year-old daughter of former U.S. President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama. She previously worked in the “Swarm” writers room, served as a production assistant on CBS series “Extant,” and held internships on HBO series “Girls” and at the Weinstein Company.
In Obama’s Sundance “Meet the Artist” video, the filmmaker calls “The Heart” an “odd little story, somewhat of a fable.”
Obama added, “The film is about lost objects and lonely people and forgiveness and regret, but I...
- 1/19/2024
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Donald Glover is gearing up to release new music!
The 40-year-old entertainer, for those that don’t know, uses the name Childish Gambino to release music, and has several Grammy award wins under his belt.
It’s been nearly four years since his last music release – 3.15.20 was his most recent album to be released, back in March 2020, and he has spent the last few years working in television, both acting and producing.
During a recent outing, Donald was asked what he has coming up next.
Keep reading to learn more…
He told TMZ that he has another album coming, and when they asked when we could expect it, he said, “soon.”
Childish Gambino was also featured on the song, “More Dollars, More Sense 1994,” earlier this year, alongside Jason Martin and DJ Quik. He also released the Swarm EP for the Prime Video series of the same name, which he created with Janine Nabers.
The 40-year-old entertainer, for those that don’t know, uses the name Childish Gambino to release music, and has several Grammy award wins under his belt.
It’s been nearly four years since his last music release – 3.15.20 was his most recent album to be released, back in March 2020, and he has spent the last few years working in television, both acting and producing.
During a recent outing, Donald was asked what he has coming up next.
Keep reading to learn more…
He told TMZ that he has another album coming, and when they asked when we could expect it, he said, “soon.”
Childish Gambino was also featured on the song, “More Dollars, More Sense 1994,” earlier this year, alongside Jason Martin and DJ Quik. He also released the Swarm EP for the Prime Video series of the same name, which he created with Janine Nabers.
- 12/29/2023
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
A list of the 10 best TV performances of the year could be filled exclusively with actors from Succession, Reservation Dogs and Beef, the top three shows shared by both of our Best of 2023 lists. But what fun would that be? You already know that Sarah Snook and Devery Jacobs and Steven Yeun are great. Or you should.
That’s why, when Angie and I set out to do this list, we started with the simple rule: “Nothing from either of our Top 10 lists.” Those performances and those shows have been celebrated amply, and we wanted to cover as many of the year’s standouts as possible.
Oh, and if it seems like most of our favorite performances of the year were from women? You don’t know the half of it. Had we had more time or space, we would have loved to write about Aunjanue Ellis (Justified: City Primeval...
That’s why, when Angie and I set out to do this list, we started with the simple rule: “Nothing from either of our Top 10 lists.” Those performances and those shows have been celebrated amply, and we wanted to cover as many of the year’s standouts as possible.
Oh, and if it seems like most of our favorite performances of the year were from women? You don’t know the half of it. Had we had more time or space, we would have loved to write about Aunjanue Ellis (Justified: City Primeval...
- 12/18/2023
- by Daniel Fienberg and Angie Han
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
While a number of films and TV shows received repeated recognition from the Golden Globes when nominations for the 2024 awards show were announced on Monday, a handful of other awards hopefuls were completely left out of this year’s nods.
Michael Mann’s Ferrari, starring Adam Driver and Penelope Cruz; Ridley Scott’s Napoleon, starring Joaquin Phoenix (who was nominated in the musical/comedy categories for his role in Beau Is Afraid); and Ava DuVernay’s Origin, starring Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, a possible contender for a best actress Oscar nod, are just three awards hopeful movies with star directors and performers that failed to receive any nominations from the Golden Globes.
Similarly, other awards hopeful films didn’t fare as well as expected during Monday’s nominations. Sofia Coppola’s Priscilla and Andrew Haigh’s All of Us Strangers each only earned one nomination. In the case of Strangers, Andrew Scott...
Michael Mann’s Ferrari, starring Adam Driver and Penelope Cruz; Ridley Scott’s Napoleon, starring Joaquin Phoenix (who was nominated in the musical/comedy categories for his role in Beau Is Afraid); and Ava DuVernay’s Origin, starring Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, a possible contender for a best actress Oscar nod, are just three awards hopeful movies with star directors and performers that failed to receive any nominations from the Golden Globes.
Similarly, other awards hopeful films didn’t fare as well as expected during Monday’s nominations. Sofia Coppola’s Priscilla and Andrew Haigh’s All of Us Strangers each only earned one nomination. In the case of Strangers, Andrew Scott...
- 12/11/2023
- by Hilary Lewis
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Last King of Scotland.In 2007, Forest Whitaker won the Academy Award for his performance as Ugandan dictator and army general Idi Amin in The Last King of Scotland (2006), becoming only the fourth Black man to win Best Actor. Lauded as the role of his career, critics praised his “full-throated, technically accomplished” performance, and his ability to “seize the space and show us how he can rage”.“Full-throated” the performance was indeed, but it was a throat filled with an accent that neither sounded like Amin’s nor any person from Koboko, northern Uganda, where the general was born. “Technically accomplished,” but the accent, directed by dialect coach Robert Easton, was neither technical, nor accomplished. Linguistically speaking, Whitaker’s accent is riddled with instances of the US English rhotic R pronunciation (which is pronounced at the back of the throat without a trill), and a combination of vowel pronunciations from across East Africa,...
- 11/9/2023
- MUBI
We finally have our first look at Amazon Prime Video's "Mr. & Mrs. Smith" reboot. On Sept. 14, Prime Video shared the first image from the series, which stars Donald Glover and Maya Erskine. The streamer also announced that the show, based on the film starring Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, will premiere in 2024.
Way back in February 2021, Glover announced he was teaming up with Phoebe Waller-Bridge for the series, but that September, Variety reported that the "Fleabag" star had exited the series. Glover revealed that Erskine would be joining him on the show in an April 2022 piece for Interview magazine.
Glover (who was interviewing himself) asked, "What happened with Phoebe Waller-Bridge? She was supposed to be on 'Smith,' right?" To which he replied, "Yeah. But classic creative differences." He then confirmed that the new Mrs. Smith is Erskine, who's known for starring in and co-creating Hulu's "PEN15." "She's dope,...
Way back in February 2021, Glover announced he was teaming up with Phoebe Waller-Bridge for the series, but that September, Variety reported that the "Fleabag" star had exited the series. Glover revealed that Erskine would be joining him on the show in an April 2022 piece for Interview magazine.
Glover (who was interviewing himself) asked, "What happened with Phoebe Waller-Bridge? She was supposed to be on 'Smith,' right?" To which he replied, "Yeah. But classic creative differences." He then confirmed that the new Mrs. Smith is Erskine, who's known for starring in and co-creating Hulu's "PEN15." "She's dope,...
- 9/14/2023
- by Kelsie Gibson
- Popsugar.com
This year’s limited program writing Emmy contest is unique in that it is the first in five years to include any TV movies at all and the first in 13 years to involve three of them. The one-off narrative specials in the running for this honor are “Fire Island,” “Prey,” and “Weird: The Al Yankovic Story,” all of which are also nominated for Best TV Movie, and the middle of which has achieved the rare feat of concurrently being recognized for its directing.
While all three of these telefilms stand as relatively strong contenders, this writing race is being very comfortably led by “Beef,” which is the only program that can possibly win all seven of this year’s major limited series Emmys. Putting up fights of their own are the miniseries “Fleishman is in Trouble” and “Swarm,” which both also face “Beef” in the corresponding lead actress and contemporary costumes categories.
While all three of these telefilms stand as relatively strong contenders, this writing race is being very comfortably led by “Beef,” which is the only program that can possibly win all seven of this year’s major limited series Emmys. Putting up fights of their own are the miniseries “Fleishman is in Trouble” and “Swarm,” which both also face “Beef” in the corresponding lead actress and contemporary costumes categories.
- 8/31/2023
- by Matthew Stewart
- Gold Derby
Variety Awards Circuit section is the home for all awards news and related content throughout the year, featuring the following: the official predictions for the upcoming Oscars, Emmys, Grammys and Tony Awards ceremonies, curated by Variety senior awards editor Clayton Davis. The prediction pages reflect the current standings in the race and do not reflect personal preferences for any individual contender. As other formal (and informal) polls suggest, competitions are fluid and subject to change based on buzz and events. Predictions are updated every Thursday.
Visit the prediction pages for the respective ceremonies via the links below:
Oscars | Emmys | Grammys | Tonys
2023 Emmy Predictions:
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or TV Movie Tiny Beautiful Things — “Pilot” – Episode 101
Weekly Commentary: As Amy, the Goop-inspired, plant-selling businesswoman, “Beef” star Ali Wong has never been better. Fresh off her first Emmy nomination for outstanding writing variety special for “Ali Wong: Don Wong” for Netflix,...
Visit the prediction pages for the respective ceremonies via the links below:
Oscars | Emmys | Grammys | Tonys
2023 Emmy Predictions:
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or TV Movie Tiny Beautiful Things — “Pilot” – Episode 101
Weekly Commentary: As Amy, the Goop-inspired, plant-selling businesswoman, “Beef” star Ali Wong has never been better. Fresh off her first Emmy nomination for outstanding writing variety special for “Ali Wong: Don Wong” for Netflix,...
- 8/17/2023
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
The Horror of Dolores Roach is a psychological thriller series created by Aaron Mark. The Prime Video series tells the story of Dolores Roach (Justina Machado), a woman recently released from an unjust prison sentence. After getting out Dolores is reunited with an old friend who gives her work but when her new and stable life is once again in danger she is ready to do anything to protect it. The Horror of Dolores Roach also stars Alejandro Hernandez, Cyndi Lauper, Justina Machado, Judy Reyes, and Marc Maron. So, if you loved the Prime Video series here are some similar shows you could watch until The Horror of Dolores Roach Season 2 comes out.
Yellowjackets (Paramount+) Credit – Showtime
Synopsis: Part survival epic, part psychological horror and part coming-of-age drama, this is the story of a team of wildly talented high school girls’ soccer players who survive a plane crash deep in the remote northern wilderness.
Yellowjackets (Paramount+) Credit – Showtime
Synopsis: Part survival epic, part psychological horror and part coming-of-age drama, this is the story of a team of wildly talented high school girls’ soccer players who survive a plane crash deep in the remote northern wilderness.
- 8/9/2023
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
Variety Awards Circuit section is the home for all awards news and related content throughout the year, featuring the following: the official predictions for the upcoming Oscars, Emmys, Grammys and Tony Awards ceremonies, curated by Variety senior awards editor Clayton Davis. The prediction pages reflect the current standings in the race and do not reflect personal preferences for any individual contender. As other formal (and informal) polls suggest, competitions are fluid and subject to change based on buzz and events. Predictions are updated every Thursday.
Visit the prediction pages for the respective ceremonies via the links below:
Oscars | Emmys | Grammys | Tonys
2023 Emmy Predictions:
Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series Jeremy Strong, Sarah Snook and Kieran Culkin from “Succession” (HBO)
Weekly Commentary: Official commentary coming soon.
The final Emmy voting rounds open on Aug. 17 at 9 a.m. Pt and close on Aug. 28 at 10 p.m. Pst.
Read: Variety’s Awards Circuit...
Visit the prediction pages for the respective ceremonies via the links below:
Oscars | Emmys | Grammys | Tonys
2023 Emmy Predictions:
Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series Jeremy Strong, Sarah Snook and Kieran Culkin from “Succession” (HBO)
Weekly Commentary: Official commentary coming soon.
The final Emmy voting rounds open on Aug. 17 at 9 a.m. Pt and close on Aug. 28 at 10 p.m. Pst.
Read: Variety’s Awards Circuit...
- 8/3/2023
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
[These interviews were conducted before the actors strike.]
Jessica Chastain (George & Tammy, Showtime)
Best Actress in a Limited Series
Jessica Chastain as Tammy Wynette in Showtime’s George & Tammy.
The first time Chastain went to an awards ceremony — the 2012 Golden Globes, where she was nominated for The Help — Josh Brolin approached her and suggested she play country singer Tammy Wynette in a movie project he was also interested in joining. Over the next decade, that film morphed into a limited series, and Brolin segued from co-star to executive producer — but Brolin’s vision of Chastain as the country music legend was realized in Showtime’s George & Tammy, and now she is nominated for her first Emmy for her portrayal.
“Getting it made felt like the grand feat, but now, to have it be recognized the way that it is, feels like such a privilege,” Chastain told THR shortly after the nominations were announced. “I’m so ecstatic.
Jessica Chastain (George & Tammy, Showtime)
Best Actress in a Limited Series
Jessica Chastain as Tammy Wynette in Showtime’s George & Tammy.
The first time Chastain went to an awards ceremony — the 2012 Golden Globes, where she was nominated for The Help — Josh Brolin approached her and suggested she play country singer Tammy Wynette in a movie project he was also interested in joining. Over the next decade, that film morphed into a limited series, and Brolin segued from co-star to executive producer — but Brolin’s vision of Chastain as the country music legend was realized in Showtime’s George & Tammy, and now she is nominated for her first Emmy for her portrayal.
“Getting it made felt like the grand feat, but now, to have it be recognized the way that it is, feels like such a privilege,” Chastain told THR shortly after the nominations were announced. “I’m so ecstatic.
- 7/28/2023
- by THR Magazine
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Burgeoning network The Roku Channel had a breakthrough year at the Emmys thanks to its original telefilm “Weird: The Al Yankovic Story.” In all, the Weird Al Yankovic biopic parody received eight nominations including three for the infamous music superstar himself for producing, writing and music & lyrics. In addition, former “Harry Potter” star Daniel Radcliffe earned his first major career bid for taking on the role of Weird Al. Read on for a closer look at “Weird: The Al Yankovic Story’s” eight nominations.
In the top category of Best TV Movie, “Weird” by far received the most noms of any of its rivals this year. The others, in descending order, are Hulu’s “Prey” with six, Disney+’s “Hocus Pocus 2” with three, and NBC’s “Dolly Parton’s Mountain Magic Christmas” and Hulu’s “Fire Island” both with two. Earlier this awards season, “Weird” claimed two Critics Choice Awards for movie and actor,...
In the top category of Best TV Movie, “Weird” by far received the most noms of any of its rivals this year. The others, in descending order, are Hulu’s “Prey” with six, Disney+’s “Hocus Pocus 2” with three, and NBC’s “Dolly Parton’s Mountain Magic Christmas” and Hulu’s “Fire Island” both with two. Earlier this awards season, “Weird” claimed two Critics Choice Awards for movie and actor,...
- 7/14/2023
- by Marcus James Dixon
- Gold Derby
Critics’ Conversation: Despite Heartening Inclusions, Emmy Voters Struggle to Broaden Their Horizons
Daniel Fienberg: The Television Academy has done it again! And I’m not sure I mean that as a compliment.
I’m happy to see two of my favorite comedies of the past year, Succession and The White Lotus, dominating the nominations. On the drama side.
And I’m glad to see Emmy voters finally recognized that my absolute favorite show of last year, Reservation Dogs, exists. Or exists enough to receive one nomination in the sound category.
And how nice that Emmy voters also noticed Dead Ringers. For cinematography. But somehow left Rachel Weisz out of the Lead Actress in a Limited Series category.
Once again, it was an Emmy nomination slate that suggests voters watch a half-dozen shows, which allows dozens more to slip through the cracks. Nowhere is that clearer than the supporting categories, where nearly every actor from The White Lotus got nominated (Nearly… sorry...
I’m happy to see two of my favorite comedies of the past year, Succession and The White Lotus, dominating the nominations. On the drama side.
And I’m glad to see Emmy voters finally recognized that my absolute favorite show of last year, Reservation Dogs, exists. Or exists enough to receive one nomination in the sound category.
And how nice that Emmy voters also noticed Dead Ringers. For cinematography. But somehow left Rachel Weisz out of the Lead Actress in a Limited Series category.
Once again, it was an Emmy nomination slate that suggests voters watch a half-dozen shows, which allows dozens more to slip through the cracks. Nowhere is that clearer than the supporting categories, where nearly every actor from The White Lotus got nominated (Nearly… sorry...
- 7/12/2023
- by Daniel Fienberg and Angie Han
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The stars are reacting to the Emmy nominations.
“The Last of Us” and “The White Lotus” are leading the pack in nominations, with many new names among the list of nominees.
Here are all of the stars’ reactions to the awards news.
Read More: 75th Emmy Awards Nominations Full List: ‘Succession’ & ‘The Last Of Us’ Lead The Race
Welcome to Wrexham, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney
Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney were ecstatic at the nominations for their sports documentary “Welcome to Wrexham”, also marking Reynolds’ first Emmy nomination.
“The story of Wrexham has resonated with millions of people because you don’t have to be Welsh or a football fan to be moved by this town,” said the two in a statement. “We are so grateful for today’s 6 Emmy nominations and are continuously honored the people of Wrexham allow us to tell their tale. Diolch! Cymru am byth!
“The Last of Us” and “The White Lotus” are leading the pack in nominations, with many new names among the list of nominees.
Here are all of the stars’ reactions to the awards news.
Read More: 75th Emmy Awards Nominations Full List: ‘Succession’ & ‘The Last Of Us’ Lead The Race
Welcome to Wrexham, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney
Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney were ecstatic at the nominations for their sports documentary “Welcome to Wrexham”, also marking Reynolds’ first Emmy nomination.
“The story of Wrexham has resonated with millions of people because you don’t have to be Welsh or a football fan to be moved by this town,” said the two in a statement. “We are so grateful for today’s 6 Emmy nominations and are continuously honored the people of Wrexham allow us to tell their tale. Diolch! Cymru am byth!
- 7/12/2023
- by Anita Tai
- ET Canada
There is simply nothing else on TV like “I’m a Virgo,” the new seven-episode series from creator Boots Riley for Amazon’s Prime Video. And that’s the point.
“The first time I heard of the project, Boots actually personally emailed me. And the title was ’13-foot-tall Black man in Oakland,'” series lead and executive producer Jharrel Jerome told TheWrap. “Like anybody else, when you read that you’re just immediately intrigued and curious. I just knew that this was something that was going to not only challenge me but challenge the audience.”
“I’m a Virgo” was actually the first idea for a TV series Riley pitched to Michael Elleberg, executive producer, founder and chairman of Media Res Studio. The show follows a 13-foot-tall Black man who leaves the house for the first time at the age of 19. Starring Jerome as Cootie, “I’m a Virgo” starts as an absurdist...
“The first time I heard of the project, Boots actually personally emailed me. And the title was ’13-foot-tall Black man in Oakland,'” series lead and executive producer Jharrel Jerome told TheWrap. “Like anybody else, when you read that you’re just immediately intrigued and curious. I just knew that this was something that was going to not only challenge me but challenge the audience.”
“I’m a Virgo” was actually the first idea for a TV series Riley pitched to Michael Elleberg, executive producer, founder and chairman of Media Res Studio. The show follows a 13-foot-tall Black man who leaves the house for the first time at the age of 19. Starring Jerome as Cootie, “I’m a Virgo” starts as an absurdist...
- 6/23/2023
- by Kayla Cobb
- The Wrap
Before cameras rolled at THR’s Drama Actress Emmy Roundtable, Jennifer Garner turned to Jennifer Coolidge and asked whether she’d be returning for The White Lotus season three. It was an innocent question and an instant giveaway that the Last Thing He Told Me star had yet to see the season two finale, in which (spoiler!) Coolidge’s character takes a header off a boat and drowns. There was a moment of awkward silence, and then Coolidge filled her in. “Nooo!” Garner shrieked in response. But before she could pepper Coolidge with follow-ups, the more formal discussion between the two and their fellow performers — Dominique Fishback (Swarm), Melanie Lynskey (Yellowjackets, The Last of Us), Emma D’Arcy (House of the Dragon) and Claire Danes (Fleishman Is in Trouble) — began. Over the course of an hour, the sextet got candid about navigating the Hollywood system, paparazzi cameras and gender norms.
If...
If...
- 6/22/2023
- by Lacey Rose
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
“Atlanta” creator Donald Glover has often flirted with surrealistic horror on his Emmy-winning FX series. But with his bold, new limited series “Swarm” on Amazon’s Prime Video, he and cocreator Janine Nabers found a new way to depict the modern Black experience through genre storytelling.
Following a pop idol-obsessed fangirl named Dre (a remarkable Dominique Fishback), “Swarm” dramatizes her slow descent into homicidal madness — and the thriller’s production designer Sara K White was on hand to help bring this deeply original look at a troubled mind to life.
Also Read:
Genre TV Strikes Back at the Emmys With ‘Andor,’ ‘Swarm’ and ‘Yellowjackets’
“Seeing this character, even written on the page, was so exciting because you just don’t get the opportunity to showcase a young Black woman in a really challenging place like this,” White, no stranger to telling stories about complex women with TV credits like “The Flight Attendant” and “Mrs. Fletcher,...
Following a pop idol-obsessed fangirl named Dre (a remarkable Dominique Fishback), “Swarm” dramatizes her slow descent into homicidal madness — and the thriller’s production designer Sara K White was on hand to help bring this deeply original look at a troubled mind to life.
Also Read:
Genre TV Strikes Back at the Emmys With ‘Andor,’ ‘Swarm’ and ‘Yellowjackets’
“Seeing this character, even written on the page, was so exciting because you just don’t get the opportunity to showcase a young Black woman in a really challenging place like this,” White, no stranger to telling stories about complex women with TV credits like “The Flight Attendant” and “Mrs. Fletcher,...
- 6/15/2023
- by Jason Clark
- The Wrap
Sometimes the best way for a performer to gain screen time is to write their own material — and there are dozens of multihyphenates who have balanced writing and acting duties on their respective series this season. That’s particularly true in comedy, a genre that sees many series led by performers who mine their own lives for onscreen laughs. (See, for example, HBO Max’s Bridget Everett-led Somebody Somewhere, Peacock’s Pete Davidson vehicle Bupkis and Netflix’s Mo, co-created by and starring Mo Amer.)
But running a show is also a great way for an actor to branch out into the directing field. This season, these five actor-writers also helmed episodes of their Emmy-contending shows.
Donald Glover
Atlanta (FX/Hulu)
Donald Glover in Atlanta
The star-creator won two Emmys, one for directing and one for acting, for the dark comedy’s first season in 2017. During the fourth and final season,...
But running a show is also a great way for an actor to branch out into the directing field. This season, these five actor-writers also helmed episodes of their Emmy-contending shows.
Donald Glover
Atlanta (FX/Hulu)
Donald Glover in Atlanta
The star-creator won two Emmys, one for directing and one for acting, for the dark comedy’s first season in 2017. During the fourth and final season,...
- 6/12/2023
- by Tyler Coates
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Dominique Fishback is sitting backstage waiting to discuss her latest role, starring in Amazon Prime Video’s “Swarm,” when her ears perk up at a familiar sound: an engine revving.
On the other side of a partition, an audience watches a particularly tense scene from the show’s fourth episode, titled “Running Scared,” when Fishback’s Dre — a murderous super fan of Ni’jah, a Beyoncé-esque pop star — faces down a group of women who stand between her and attending the singer’s concert.
Fishback playfully re-enacts the scene, gripping an imaginary steering wheel and pressing her high-heeled foot down onto a pretend gas pedal that sends her speeding ahead and crashing into Dre’s latest victims. She pulls a funny face and hams it up for a rep’s cellphone camera, unknowingly demonstrating the type of darkly comedic energy that makes “Swarm” so buzzworthy.
“There’s a lot...
On the other side of a partition, an audience watches a particularly tense scene from the show’s fourth episode, titled “Running Scared,” when Fishback’s Dre — a murderous super fan of Ni’jah, a Beyoncé-esque pop star — faces down a group of women who stand between her and attending the singer’s concert.
Fishback playfully re-enacts the scene, gripping an imaginary steering wheel and pressing her high-heeled foot down onto a pretend gas pedal that sends her speeding ahead and crashing into Dre’s latest victims. She pulls a funny face and hams it up for a rep’s cellphone camera, unknowingly demonstrating the type of darkly comedic energy that makes “Swarm” so buzzworthy.
“There’s a lot...
- 6/3/2023
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
This story about genre television first appeared in The Race Begins issue of TheWrap’s awards magazine.
What is it about genre storytelling that we find so appealing? It’s been 15 years since the MCU first became a box office behemoth. By the time it ended its run, “Game of Thrones” had amassed 59 Emmy Awards, making it the most decorated drama series ever. Last year, “Squid Game” became the first non-English language series to win the Emmy for Outstanding Drama Series, and its star, Lee Jung-jae, made history as the first person in a foreign-language show to win Best Actor.
The latest season of TV has served up an even more generous portion of genre storytelling in strong contention for Emmy recognition. Among the most acclaimed are Disney+’s “Andor,” Amazon Prime’s “Swarm” and Showtime’s “Yellowjackets.”
While wildly different—a Star Wars prequel, an occasionally surreal horror-comedy and...
What is it about genre storytelling that we find so appealing? It’s been 15 years since the MCU first became a box office behemoth. By the time it ended its run, “Game of Thrones” had amassed 59 Emmy Awards, making it the most decorated drama series ever. Last year, “Squid Game” became the first non-English language series to win the Emmy for Outstanding Drama Series, and its star, Lee Jung-jae, made history as the first person in a foreign-language show to win Best Actor.
The latest season of TV has served up an even more generous portion of genre storytelling in strong contention for Emmy recognition. Among the most acclaimed are Disney+’s “Andor,” Amazon Prime’s “Swarm” and Showtime’s “Yellowjackets.”
While wildly different—a Star Wars prequel, an occasionally surreal horror-comedy and...
- 5/26/2023
- by Libby Hill
- The Wrap
The Writers Guild of America is getting even more Oval Office support.
First it was Joe Biden, and now Barack Obama has offered backing to striking scribes — again
Expanding on comments he made online back on May 17 when his Working: What We Do All Day docuseries on Netflix, the 44th Potus started off a livestream sit-down with Ira Glass by reading a prepared statement on the WGA Strike that started on May 2.
Credit: Netflix
In that thoughtful manner that exemplified his two-terms in the White House, President Obama today said:
Part of what this show Working is about is how certain things are constant about the work experience. People trying to find work that’s satisfying, people trying to pay the bills.
Unfortunately, one of the things that’s also been constant is the struggle for people to make sure their employers are treating them fairly and they’re getting...
First it was Joe Biden, and now Barack Obama has offered backing to striking scribes — again
Expanding on comments he made online back on May 17 when his Working: What We Do All Day docuseries on Netflix, the 44th Potus started off a livestream sit-down with Ira Glass by reading a prepared statement on the WGA Strike that started on May 2.
Credit: Netflix
In that thoughtful manner that exemplified his two-terms in the White House, President Obama today said:
Part of what this show Working is about is how certain things are constant about the work experience. People trying to find work that’s satisfying, people trying to pay the bills.
Unfortunately, one of the things that’s also been constant is the struggle for people to make sure their employers are treating them fairly and they’re getting...
- 5/25/2023
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
When “Swarm” co-creator Janine Nabers went to Amazon Prime Video with her hit horror limited series, she told the streamer she wanted an all-Black writers’ room.
As soon as “Swarm” hit Prime Video, buzz about the thriller show, well, swarmed. The BeyHive-inspired series centers on a violently obsessed fan (played by Dominique Fishback) who stops at nothing to see her favorite superstar artist. The idea for the series was a co-creation between Nabers and Donald Glover.
“When we approached the idea for ‘Swarm,’ it was really about how can we as Black people tell a story from a Black woman’s perspective that gives it that cinematic lens,” Nabers said in the latest installment of TheWrap’s “How She Did It,” sponsored by Prime Video.
While working together wasn’t new for Nabers and Glover as the pair previously worked together on FX’s “Atlanta,” coming together to pitch the unique,...
As soon as “Swarm” hit Prime Video, buzz about the thriller show, well, swarmed. The BeyHive-inspired series centers on a violently obsessed fan (played by Dominique Fishback) who stops at nothing to see her favorite superstar artist. The idea for the series was a co-creation between Nabers and Donald Glover.
“When we approached the idea for ‘Swarm,’ it was really about how can we as Black people tell a story from a Black woman’s perspective that gives it that cinematic lens,” Nabers said in the latest installment of TheWrap’s “How She Did It,” sponsored by Prime Video.
While working together wasn’t new for Nabers and Glover as the pair previously worked together on FX’s “Atlanta,” coming together to pitch the unique,...
- 5/23/2023
- by Raquel "Rocky" Harris
- The Wrap
As we inch toward the Emmy nomination announcement on July 12, one category that has been interesting to try to predict is Movie/Limited Actress. As there is no division within this category pertaining specifically to genre, we end up with quite the diversity of performances. There are 35 actresses listed on Gold Derby’s combined odds and rankings. Of those, at least a dozen of them have a legit shot at scoring a nomination.
The reigning champion of this category is Amanda Seyfried for her performance in 2022’s “The Dropout” (Hulu). Seyfried also won the Golden Globe earlier this year. So, who is in contention to pick up the baton for 2023?
Some of this year’s top contenders and their current combined odds include:
SEEJessica Chastain predicted to follow her ‘George and Tammy’ SAG Award with her first Emmy Jessica Chastain (“George and Tammy”): 37/10 – Chastain has been having herself a Year.
The reigning champion of this category is Amanda Seyfried for her performance in 2022’s “The Dropout” (Hulu). Seyfried also won the Golden Globe earlier this year. So, who is in contention to pick up the baton for 2023?
Some of this year’s top contenders and their current combined odds include:
SEEJessica Chastain predicted to follow her ‘George and Tammy’ SAG Award with her first Emmy Jessica Chastain (“George and Tammy”): 37/10 – Chastain has been having herself a Year.
- 5/11/2023
- by Stacy Henry
- Gold Derby
“Shoutout to writers,” exclaimed Jason Sudeikis, on stage with much of the cast and creative team behind “Ted Lasso” for a fan event that would kick off the opening of the “Think Apple TV+ FYC” space. “What a day to be doing this.”
Mere hours later, at the stroke of midnight on May 2, the Writers Guild of America would decide to officially go on strike, calling for its members nationwide to enforce a work stoppage. However, it was not clear until that following afternoon what the guidance was for participating in For Your Consideration events meant to highlight the work they already accomplished this TV season.
The conclusion the union came to in terms of members attending film festivals or FYC events for a film or a show they wrote on, as published in the WGA Strike Rules Faq, was “You should let the Company know you are prohibited from...
Mere hours later, at the stroke of midnight on May 2, the Writers Guild of America would decide to officially go on strike, calling for its members nationwide to enforce a work stoppage. However, it was not clear until that following afternoon what the guidance was for participating in For Your Consideration events meant to highlight the work they already accomplished this TV season.
The conclusion the union came to in terms of members attending film festivals or FYC events for a film or a show they wrote on, as published in the WGA Strike Rules Faq, was “You should let the Company know you are prohibited from...
- 5/9/2023
- by Marcus Jones
- Indiewire
The buzz around Amazon Prime Video's "Swarm" was nearly impossible to escape when the Donald Glover and Janine Nabers-created series premiered on March 17. If viewers weren't talking about Dominique Fishback's spirited performance as serial killer stan Dre or Chlöe's viral sex scene, they were definitely captivated by all those undeniable Beyoncé references - and trust, there were many.
"Of course, it had the fun parallels of certain things where you're like, 'Is this not who we think it is?'"
"Swarm" follows Fishback's Dre on a cross-country quest to meet her favorite obsession singer of all time, a mega-pop star named Ni'Jah who bears an awful close resemblance to Queen Bey. Viewers were definitely convinced that "Swarm" purposely alluded to Beyoncé and any reference to her life, aesthetic, and real-life scandals for shock factor. Almost every episode of "Swarm" was even prefaced with a disclaimer: "This is not a work of fiction.
"Of course, it had the fun parallels of certain things where you're like, 'Is this not who we think it is?'"
"Swarm" follows Fishback's Dre on a cross-country quest to meet her favorite obsession singer of all time, a mega-pop star named Ni'Jah who bears an awful close resemblance to Queen Bey. Viewers were definitely convinced that "Swarm" purposely alluded to Beyoncé and any reference to her life, aesthetic, and real-life scandals for shock factor. Almost every episode of "Swarm" was even prefaced with a disclaimer: "This is not a work of fiction.
- 5/5/2023
- by Njera Perkins
- Popsugar.com
“When they told me about the role [of Dre] they initially wanted me to play Marissa, who is the role that Chloe Bailey plays,” admits “Swarm” actress Dominique Fishback. “I was too excited by Dre’s journey. I felt that there were some ‘Monster’ opportunities, like Charlize Theron, and some ‘Boys Don’t Cry,’ Hilary Swank, and even some ‘Joker.’ I’ve always admired those performances. They told me about it and in my mind I was like, ‘Man, I can’t play Marissa, I gotta play Dre.'” Watch our video interview above.
“Swarm” tells the story of Dre (Fishback), a young woman obsessed with a pop star named Ni’Jah (Nirine S. Brown). Her fandom takes a dark turn as Dre’s traumas from her past come to the surface. The seven-part Amazon Prime Video limited series was created by Donald Glover and Janine Nabers and began streaming March 17, 2023.
See Dominique...
“Swarm” tells the story of Dre (Fishback), a young woman obsessed with a pop star named Ni’Jah (Nirine S. Brown). Her fandom takes a dark turn as Dre’s traumas from her past come to the surface. The seven-part Amazon Prime Video limited series was created by Donald Glover and Janine Nabers and began streaming March 17, 2023.
See Dominique...
- 5/5/2023
- by Denton Davidson
- Gold Derby
In the new Amazon series Swarm, a fanatical devotee of a Beyoncé-esque pop star embarks on a quest to meet the singer, with a few stops along the way to dispose of those who have disparaged her idol online. Created by Donald Glover and Janine Nabers, the show hops around between Texas, Georgia, Tennessee, Seattle and L.A., but was shot largely in Atlanta by Drew Daniels. The Red Rocket and Krisha Dp spoke to Filmmaker about the influence of Michael Haneke, the beauty of imperfect camera moves and Swarm’s extremely last-minute switch to 35mm film. Filmmaker: Let’s start with some […]
The post “Friday Morning Donald Called Me and Said, ‘We’re Shooting Film'”: Dp Drew Daniels on Swarm first appeared on Filmmaker Magazine.
The post “Friday Morning Donald Called Me and Said, ‘We’re Shooting Film'”: Dp Drew Daniels on Swarm first appeared on Filmmaker Magazine.
- 5/1/2023
- by Matt Mulcahey
- Filmmaker Magazine - Blog
In the new Amazon series Swarm, a fanatical devotee of a Beyoncé-esque pop star embarks on a quest to meet the singer, with a few stops along the way to dispose of those who have disparaged her idol online. Created by Donald Glover and Janine Nabers, the show hops around between Texas, Georgia, Tennessee, Seattle and L.A., but was shot largely in Atlanta by Drew Daniels. The Red Rocket and Krisha Dp spoke to Filmmaker about the influence of Michael Haneke, the beauty of imperfect camera moves and Swarm’s extremely last-minute switch to 35mm film. Filmmaker: Let’s start with some […]
The post “Friday Morning Donald Called Me and Said, ‘We’re Shooting Film'”: Dp Drew Daniels on Swarm first appeared on Filmmaker Magazine.
The post “Friday Morning Donald Called Me and Said, ‘We’re Shooting Film'”: Dp Drew Daniels on Swarm first appeared on Filmmaker Magazine.
- 5/1/2023
- by Matt Mulcahey
- Filmmaker Magazine-Director Interviews
Deadline’s Contenders Television photo studio hosted talent on April 15 at the DGA Theater in Los Angeles. Cast and creators stopping by include Natasha Lyon and Rian Johnson of Poker Face; Betty Gilpin, Damon Lindelof and Tara Hernandez of Mrs. Davis; Dominique Fishback and Janine Nabers from Swarm; Steven Yeun and Ali Wong from Beef; Evan Peters and Niecy Nash-Betts from Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story and many others.
Day 2 continued on April 16th with cast members of buzzworthy TV shows stopping by including Adam Scott, Ken Marino and Zoë Chao from Party Down; David West Read, Chris O’Dowd, Gabrielle Dennis, Josh Segarra from The Big Door Prize, Quinta Brunson, Lisa Ann Walter, Sheryl Lee Ralph for Abbott Elementary; Brett Goldstein, Jason Segel, Christa Miller, Jessica Williams for Shrinking; Al Yankovic for Weird: The Al Yankovic Story; Kerry Washington and Delroy Lindo for UnPrisoned; Rosie Perez and Bryan Cranston...
Day 2 continued on April 16th with cast members of buzzworthy TV shows stopping by including Adam Scott, Ken Marino and Zoë Chao from Party Down; David West Read, Chris O’Dowd, Gabrielle Dennis, Josh Segarra from The Big Door Prize, Quinta Brunson, Lisa Ann Walter, Sheryl Lee Ralph for Abbott Elementary; Brett Goldstein, Jason Segel, Christa Miller, Jessica Williams for Shrinking; Al Yankovic for Weird: The Al Yankovic Story; Kerry Washington and Delroy Lindo for UnPrisoned; Rosie Perez and Bryan Cranston...
- 4/17/2023
- by Robert Lang
- Deadline Film + TV
Although Dominique Fishback was initially approached for a supporting role in Prime Video’s darkly comedic horror-comedy Swarm, created by Janine Nabers and Donald Glover, she knew upon reading the script that she was destined to play its lead character, Dre.
Related: Deadline Studio At Contenders Television 2023 – Steven Yeun, Ali Wong, Dominique Fishback, Riley Keough, Natasha Lyonne & More
Coming off of projects like Judas and the Black Messiah and Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, she said today during a panel for Deadline’s Contenders TV, moderated by Destiny Jackson, she was looking for a project that was going to “excite” and “challenge” her. She recalled telling Glover during one phone conversation: “I don’t want to even catch up to my own self as an actor. I don’t even want to know what I’m going to do next. I want the opportunity to stretch beyond what I’ve been used to,...
Related: Deadline Studio At Contenders Television 2023 – Steven Yeun, Ali Wong, Dominique Fishback, Riley Keough, Natasha Lyonne & More
Coming off of projects like Judas and the Black Messiah and Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, she said today during a panel for Deadline’s Contenders TV, moderated by Destiny Jackson, she was looking for a project that was going to “excite” and “challenge” her. She recalled telling Glover during one phone conversation: “I don’t want to even catch up to my own self as an actor. I don’t even want to know what I’m going to do next. I want the opportunity to stretch beyond what I’ve been used to,...
- 4/15/2023
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
“How can fandom be toxic?!” Richie Kirsch (Jack Quaid) scowls after his motive explanation and reveal as one-half of the Ghostface team in last year’s Scream. “It’s about love! You don’t fucking understand– these movies are important to people!”
“Toxic fandom” may only feel like a relatively recent term, used in reference to crazed, niche fandoms of movies, franchises, comics, and musicians alike, especially within online forums and social media groups. However, horror has always known, warned, and held up a mirror to those who take their love of these art forms just a tad bit too far, as depicted in the recent Donald Glover and Janine Nabers-created Amazon Prime show, Swarm.
The quick-to-binge 7-episode series– which subtly nods The Shining, Candyman, Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer, outwardly supportive but inwardly manipulative cults like Midsommar, and a hypnosis scene straight out of Get Out– follows a young woman named Dre,...
“Toxic fandom” may only feel like a relatively recent term, used in reference to crazed, niche fandoms of movies, franchises, comics, and musicians alike, especially within online forums and social media groups. However, horror has always known, warned, and held up a mirror to those who take their love of these art forms just a tad bit too far, as depicted in the recent Donald Glover and Janine Nabers-created Amazon Prime show, Swarm.
The quick-to-binge 7-episode series– which subtly nods The Shining, Candyman, Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer, outwardly supportive but inwardly manipulative cults like Midsommar, and a hypnosis scene straight out of Get Out– follows a young woman named Dre,...
- 4/14/2023
- by Julieann Stipidis
- bloody-disgusting.com
Donald Glover is opening up about his time at “30 Rock”.
Speaking with GQ, he revealed show creator Tina Fey once told he was a “diversity hire”.
He joined the team behind the show in 2006, when he was still a resident assistant in Goddard, living in a dorm in New York City. Despite becoming a writer in show business, he didn’t find himself feeling included.
Read More: Donald Glover Reveals ‘This Is America’ Had ‘Started As A Drake Diss’
“It definitely didn’t feel like I was supposed to be there,” he told the outlet. “I used to have stress dreams every night where I was doing cartwheels on the top of a New York skyscraper with the other writers watching me.”
Glover once again recalled the moment Fey admitted to him he was hired for “diversity”.
“There is no animosity between us or anything like that, but [Tina Fey] said it herself…...
Speaking with GQ, he revealed show creator Tina Fey once told he was a “diversity hire”.
He joined the team behind the show in 2006, when he was still a resident assistant in Goddard, living in a dorm in New York City. Despite becoming a writer in show business, he didn’t find himself feeling included.
Read More: Donald Glover Reveals ‘This Is America’ Had ‘Started As A Drake Diss’
“It definitely didn’t feel like I was supposed to be there,” he told the outlet. “I used to have stress dreams every night where I was doing cartwheels on the top of a New York skyscraper with the other writers watching me.”
Glover once again recalled the moment Fey admitted to him he was hired for “diversity”.
“There is no animosity between us or anything like that, but [Tina Fey] said it herself…...
- 4/5/2023
- by Anita Tai
- ET Canada
Malia Obama is staying in the Donald Glover business. As part of a new GQ cover story on the “Atlanta” creator, Glover revealed that his newly-created production company, Gilga, is developing a short film with Malia Obama, the eldest daughter of Barack and Michelle Obama. GQ confirmed Malia is “creating” the short film. It’s unconfirmed at this time if Malia will direct the project.
Malia already has experience working with Glover as part of the writer’s room of his buzzy Amazon Prime Video series “Swarm,” which debuted March 17 on the streaming platform. Malia had a writing credit on the show’s fifth episode, “Girl Bye,” alongside series co-creator Janine Nabers.
As part of the GQ cover, Glover reflected on how he is mentoring Malia in the entertainment world. “The first thing we did was talk about the fact that she will only get to do this once,” Glover said.
Malia already has experience working with Glover as part of the writer’s room of his buzzy Amazon Prime Video series “Swarm,” which debuted March 17 on the streaming platform. Malia had a writing credit on the show’s fifth episode, “Girl Bye,” alongside series co-creator Janine Nabers.
As part of the GQ cover, Glover reflected on how he is mentoring Malia in the entertainment world. “The first thing we did was talk about the fact that she will only get to do this once,” Glover said.
- 4/4/2023
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
In this weekly data series powered by Parrot Analytics, we look at the top breakout shows of the past week. Breakout shows are the most in-demand series that have premiered in the past 100 days.
Prime Video seems to be having a moment. Three of the top most in-demand breakout shows for March 18-24 came from Amazon’s streamer, all of which saw an increase in demand over the week, according to Parrot Analytics’ data — which takes into account consumer research, streaming, downloads and social media, among other engagement.
“Swarm,” the streamer’s latest psychological horror thriller series created by Janine Nabers and Donald Glover, had the most notable movement. The show, which follows the story of a young woman whose obsession with a pop star takes a dark turn, premiered on March 17 to generally positive reviews, with guest performances by Chloe Bailey and Billie Eilish. The story seemed to strike a chord among American audiences,...
Prime Video seems to be having a moment. Three of the top most in-demand breakout shows for March 18-24 came from Amazon’s streamer, all of which saw an increase in demand over the week, according to Parrot Analytics’ data — which takes into account consumer research, streaming, downloads and social media, among other engagement.
“Swarm,” the streamer’s latest psychological horror thriller series created by Janine Nabers and Donald Glover, had the most notable movement. The show, which follows the story of a young woman whose obsession with a pop star takes a dark turn, premiered on March 17 to generally positive reviews, with guest performances by Chloe Bailey and Billie Eilish. The story seemed to strike a chord among American audiences,...
- 3/29/2023
- by Andrea Wads
- The Wrap
Donald Glover and Janine Nabers's "Swarm" is full of variances and fractures. There are the neon colors of the videos fictional popstar Ni'jah puts into the world, breaking up the dull beiges and grays of the apartments and cars Dre (Dominique Fishback) inhabits on her cross-country killing spree. There's Dre's childlike reverence for Ni'Jah, and the rage that seems to consume her like an insatiable hunger, embodied by the broken glass and spreading pools of blood that seem to follow her wherever she goes.
According to production designer Sara K White, the show's design was intended to make Dre's persona especially paradoxical. "I feel like what we were able to do was provide a character who is both extremely ferocious and also sympathetic," she tells Popsugar. "You don't necessarily think that she's just evil, however much evil she does. That was a great line that we were looking to walk.
According to production designer Sara K White, the show's design was intended to make Dre's persona especially paradoxical. "I feel like what we were able to do was provide a character who is both extremely ferocious and also sympathetic," she tells Popsugar. "You don't necessarily think that she's just evil, however much evil she does. That was a great line that we were looking to walk.
- 3/24/2023
- by Eden Arielle Gordon
- Popsugar.com
Swarm, created by Donald Glover and Janine Nabers, is the newest psychological thriller television show on Prime. Swarm follows the story of Dre (Dominique Fishback) who is obsessed with pop star Ni’Jah (Nirine S. Brown), which causes her to go off the deep end.
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Just as the title card on the first episode reads, “any similarity to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is intentional,” the awkward one-night stand scene from the show was based on real life.
According to Nabers, “Donald told this very funny story about a girl who he really liked, and how after they hooked up, he was standing there with a bowl of cherries, just being like, ‘Hey.’ She was like, so not into it because it’s so weird to hook up with a guy that you barely know and then wake up with him holding a bowl of cherries.
50 Best Celebrity Bikinis Slideshow!
Just as the title card on the first episode reads, “any similarity to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is intentional,” the awkward one-night stand scene from the show was based on real life.
According to Nabers, “Donald told this very funny story about a girl who he really liked, and how after they hooked up, he was standing there with a bowl of cherries, just being like, ‘Hey.’ She was like, so not into it because it’s so weird to hook up with a guy that you barely know and then wake up with him holding a bowl of cherries.
- 3/24/2023
- by Hailey Schipper
- Uinterview
Sheryl Lee Ralph, veteran actress and now “Abbott Elementary” star, says a “famous TV judge” assaulted her.
Ralph opened up about the alleged incident on Monday during an appearance on radio personality Angela Yee’s “The Way Up With Angela Yee” podcast.
“I’m at a very public place,” Ralph said. “I was suited. I had my suit on. I was handling my business for the television show I was on at that time. He and I were on the same network. This man walked in, grabbed me by the back of my neck, turned me around and rammed his nasty a—s tongue down my throat. Everybody at the network saw it.”
Also Read:
‘Swarm’ Co-Creator Janine Nabers Says Stan Culture ‘Scares’ Her: ‘I’ve Seen People Trying to Take Ownership’ of Donald Glover
At that time, Ralph was playing role of Dee Mitchell on former Upn sitcom “Moesha.
Ralph opened up about the alleged incident on Monday during an appearance on radio personality Angela Yee’s “The Way Up With Angela Yee” podcast.
“I’m at a very public place,” Ralph said. “I was suited. I had my suit on. I was handling my business for the television show I was on at that time. He and I were on the same network. This man walked in, grabbed me by the back of my neck, turned me around and rammed his nasty a—s tongue down my throat. Everybody at the network saw it.”
Also Read:
‘Swarm’ Co-Creator Janine Nabers Says Stan Culture ‘Scares’ Her: ‘I’ve Seen People Trying to Take Ownership’ of Donald Glover
At that time, Ralph was playing role of Dee Mitchell on former Upn sitcom “Moesha.
- 3/23/2023
- by Raquel "Rocky" Harris
- The Wrap
Black creatives’ struggle in the media world can often feel quite stark. “Swarm,” the new Amazon prime series from the collective minds of Janine Nabers and Donald Glover, is in its first week of release at the time of writing. While doing the usual google research for this review, I typed in “Swarm” TV news and headed along to the news tab. My eyes rolled so far into my head; you could have sworn Paul Bearer was standing beside me holding an urn.
Continue reading ‘Swarm’ Review: Dominique Fishback Owns & Janine Nabers & Donald Glover Reorient ‘The King Of Comedy’ Through A Black Lens at The Playlist.
Continue reading ‘Swarm’ Review: Dominique Fishback Owns & Janine Nabers & Donald Glover Reorient ‘The King Of Comedy’ Through A Black Lens at The Playlist.
- 3/23/2023
- by Leslie Byron Pitt
- The Playlist
This article contains spoilers for “Swarm.”
The first image of the debut episode of the serial killer series “Swarm” is a spin on classic Hollywood disclaimer language: “Any similarity to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events, is intentional.”
It’s a provocative start to the kaleidoscopic pop culture satire, created by Janine Nabers and Donald Glover and starring Dominique Fishback as Dre, a woman so obsessed with pop singer Ni’Jah that she’d kill to defend her honor. Given the bloodshed and not-so-subtle parallels between Ni’Jah and the career and passionate fanbase of Beyoncé, it’s easy to believe there could have been a real-life cross-country serial killer murdering those who dare take Queen Bey’s name in vain. But what’s the reality behind the purported true story of “Swarm”?
The answer is…complicated. Before diving too deep, it’s important to note that at the end of the credits,...
The first image of the debut episode of the serial killer series “Swarm” is a spin on classic Hollywood disclaimer language: “Any similarity to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events, is intentional.”
It’s a provocative start to the kaleidoscopic pop culture satire, created by Janine Nabers and Donald Glover and starring Dominique Fishback as Dre, a woman so obsessed with pop singer Ni’Jah that she’d kill to defend her honor. Given the bloodshed and not-so-subtle parallels between Ni’Jah and the career and passionate fanbase of Beyoncé, it’s easy to believe there could have been a real-life cross-country serial killer murdering those who dare take Queen Bey’s name in vain. But what’s the reality behind the purported true story of “Swarm”?
The answer is…complicated. Before diving too deep, it’s important to note that at the end of the credits,...
- 3/22/2023
- by William Earl
- Variety Film + TV
On a bright sunny morning in Los Angeles via a Zoom video call, Dominique Fishback was sporting a Romeo and Juliet-inspired sweatshirt (“I’m a romanticist at heart,” she says) and a 100-watt smile to match the light coming into her room.
Fishback’s warm demeanor matches most of the characters she’s played previously; more recently she had a BAFTA-nominated role in Judas and the Black Messiah and scene-stealing parts in HBO’s The Deuce and Show Me a Hero. But Swarm is her big departure. In the Amazon limited series from co-creators Donald Glover and Janine Nabers, Fishback delivers a frightening performance as an unassuming and introverted bloody serial killer.
Fishback giggles and nods her head at the mention of the dichotomy. She’s nothing like the character she portrays in Swarm, but it’s easily one of the roles she’s most proud of in her career.
Fishback’s warm demeanor matches most of the characters she’s played previously; more recently she had a BAFTA-nominated role in Judas and the Black Messiah and scene-stealing parts in HBO’s The Deuce and Show Me a Hero. But Swarm is her big departure. In the Amazon limited series from co-creators Donald Glover and Janine Nabers, Fishback delivers a frightening performance as an unassuming and introverted bloody serial killer.
Fishback giggles and nods her head at the mention of the dichotomy. She’s nothing like the character she portrays in Swarm, but it’s easily one of the roles she’s most proud of in her career.
- 3/22/2023
- by Demetrius Patterson
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Rory Culkin leaves nothing to the imagination during a scene in “Swarm”, the new Prime Video series co-created by Janine Nabers and Donald Glover (“Atlanta”).
In the scene, the series’ protagonist, Dre (Dominique Fishback), is seen registering surprise when the guy she hooked up with the night before offers a bowl of strawberries — which happen to be positioned right next to his exposed genitals.
According to Nabers, the scene is only partly fictional, and was originally inspired by something that once happened to Glover after a similar hookup.
Read More: Chlöe Bailey Gets Support From Trevor Jackson Amid ‘Swarm’ Sex Scene Controversy
“Donald told this very funny story about a girl who he really liked, and how after they hooked, he was standing there with a bowl of cherries, just being like, ‘Hey,'” Nabers told Insider at the South by Southwest Film & TV festival in Austin.
“She was like,...
In the scene, the series’ protagonist, Dre (Dominique Fishback), is seen registering surprise when the guy she hooked up with the night before offers a bowl of strawberries — which happen to be positioned right next to his exposed genitals.
According to Nabers, the scene is only partly fictional, and was originally inspired by something that once happened to Glover after a similar hookup.
Read More: Chlöe Bailey Gets Support From Trevor Jackson Amid ‘Swarm’ Sex Scene Controversy
“Donald told this very funny story about a girl who he really liked, and how after they hooked, he was standing there with a bowl of cherries, just being like, ‘Hey,'” Nabers told Insider at the South by Southwest Film & TV festival in Austin.
“She was like,...
- 3/21/2023
- by Brent Furdyk
- ET Canada
Janine Nabers, co-creator of Amazon Prime Video’s new thriller series “Swarm,” tells TheWrap how her fear and fascination of stan culture and fandom helped mold the idea for her and Donald Glover’s new buzzy BeyHive-inspired series.
Nabers says there’s fans, and then there’s people like Dre (Dominque Fishback), the main character in her new show, which is centered on the aloof, calculated and creepy superfan of the Beyoncé-esque R&b singer Ni’Jah. Despite having never met her, Dre feels there’s no wrong that Ni’Jah can do, as in her eyes she is the epitome of perfection, and if you express otherwise it could be the last breath you ever take.
While murder isn’t the option most fans would take to defend their favorite celebs, the show highlights the darkness, obsessiveness and sometimes jarring behavior stan and fan culture exhibits. Nabers says...
Nabers says there’s fans, and then there’s people like Dre (Dominque Fishback), the main character in her new show, which is centered on the aloof, calculated and creepy superfan of the Beyoncé-esque R&b singer Ni’Jah. Despite having never met her, Dre feels there’s no wrong that Ni’Jah can do, as in her eyes she is the epitome of perfection, and if you express otherwise it could be the last breath you ever take.
While murder isn’t the option most fans would take to defend their favorite celebs, the show highlights the darkness, obsessiveness and sometimes jarring behavior stan and fan culture exhibits. Nabers says...
- 3/21/2023
- by Raquel "Rocky" Harris
- The Wrap
Rory Culkin’s nude scene was inspired by a one-night stand Donald Glover had.
During a chat with Insider, co-creator Janine Nabers shared that the moment was recreated from a real-life event Glover had.
Also Read:
Malia Obama Wrote for Donald Glover’s New Thriller ‘Swarm’ for Amazon
“Donald told this very funny story about a girl who he really liked, and how after they hooked, he was standing there with a bowl of cherries, just being like, ‘Hey,'” Nabers told the outlet. “She was like, so not into it, because it’s so weird to hook up with a guy that you barely know and then wake up with him holding a bowl of cherries.”
This prompted Nabers to include it in the show.
“Swarm” fans online are responding to the scene that threw a lot of watchers off because, well, everyone got a full-frontal view of Culkin.
During a chat with Insider, co-creator Janine Nabers shared that the moment was recreated from a real-life event Glover had.
Also Read:
Malia Obama Wrote for Donald Glover’s New Thriller ‘Swarm’ for Amazon
“Donald told this very funny story about a girl who he really liked, and how after they hooked, he was standing there with a bowl of cherries, just being like, ‘Hey,'” Nabers told the outlet. “She was like, so not into it, because it’s so weird to hook up with a guy that you barely know and then wake up with him holding a bowl of cherries.”
This prompted Nabers to include it in the show.
“Swarm” fans online are responding to the scene that threw a lot of watchers off because, well, everyone got a full-frontal view of Culkin.
- 3/21/2023
- by Raquel "Rocky" Harris
- The Wrap
Rory Culkin’s full-frontal nude scene in Swarm was inspired by one of creator Donald Glover’s own experiences.
The brother of Macaulay and Kieran Culkin plays a man who takes the main character Dre’s (Dominique Fishback) virginity.
After the hookup, Culkin’s character presents Dre with some strawberries placed artfully in a clear bowl, which he presses up against his penis.
In an interview with Insider at the SXSW festival, Glover’s co-creator Janine Nabers revealed that the scene was inspired by the singer/actor/writer/director.
“Donald told this very funny story about a girl who he really liked, and how after they hooked, he was standing there with a bowl of cherries, just being like, ‘Hey,’” Nabers recalled.
“She was like, so not into it, because it’s so weird to hook up with a guy that you barely know and then wake up with him holding a bowl of cherries.
The brother of Macaulay and Kieran Culkin plays a man who takes the main character Dre’s (Dominique Fishback) virginity.
After the hookup, Culkin’s character presents Dre with some strawberries placed artfully in a clear bowl, which he presses up against his penis.
In an interview with Insider at the SXSW festival, Glover’s co-creator Janine Nabers revealed that the scene was inspired by the singer/actor/writer/director.
“Donald told this very funny story about a girl who he really liked, and how after they hooked, he was standing there with a bowl of cherries, just being like, ‘Hey,’” Nabers recalled.
“She was like, so not into it, because it’s so weird to hook up with a guy that you barely know and then wake up with him holding a bowl of cherries.
- 3/21/2023
- by Tom Murray
- The Independent - TV
Trevor Jackson will always support Chlöe Bailey.
Following the criticism over his “Grown-ish” co-star’s sex scene in the new Prime Video series “Swarm”, the actor shared his thoughts on the controversy with TMZ.
“I haven’t seen it yet,” Jackson admitted, “but it’s art, and I support Chlöe in any- and everything that she does.
“She’s an amazing person, and she’s an artist, and she can do whatever she wants, whatever she feels led to do,” he continued. “It’s her life, and she’ll always have my support every time.”
Read More: Chris Brown Claps Back After Chloe Bailey Hit With Backlash Over Collab
While Bailey, 24, told HipHollywood that she’s “very into my body and being a woman and all that,” she confessed that she was scared to film her first sex scene in Donald Glover’s new show. However, thanks to the crew and her onscreen boyfriend,...
Following the criticism over his “Grown-ish” co-star’s sex scene in the new Prime Video series “Swarm”, the actor shared his thoughts on the controversy with TMZ.
“I haven’t seen it yet,” Jackson admitted, “but it’s art, and I support Chlöe in any- and everything that she does.
“She’s an amazing person, and she’s an artist, and she can do whatever she wants, whatever she feels led to do,” he continued. “It’s her life, and she’ll always have my support every time.”
Read More: Chris Brown Claps Back After Chloe Bailey Hit With Backlash Over Collab
While Bailey, 24, told HipHollywood that she’s “very into my body and being a woman and all that,” she confessed that she was scared to film her first sex scene in Donald Glover’s new show. However, thanks to the crew and her onscreen boyfriend,...
- 3/21/2023
- by Melissa Romualdi
- ET Canada
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