George Lucas’ Star Wars is a vast and complex universe filled with its own mythos and artifacts. The filmmaker had reportedly crafted most elements while making the first film, while some of them were tweaked during subsequent sequels and prequels. One such element that has been debated is the way the Force works.
While the Force is something that someone trains to obtain control over, the prequel The Phantom Menace established the idea of midi-chlorians, a microorganism that every life form is made of. The concept was not impressive to many fans who felt it was more of a mystical element in the sci-fi films rather than having an actual scientific explanation.
What Are Midi-Chlorians And How Do They Affect The Force In Star Wars? A still from Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace | Credits: Lucasfilm Ltd.
The concept of the midi-chlorians is officially introduced in the prequel...
While the Force is something that someone trains to obtain control over, the prequel The Phantom Menace established the idea of midi-chlorians, a microorganism that every life form is made of. The concept was not impressive to many fans who felt it was more of a mystical element in the sci-fi films rather than having an actual scientific explanation.
What Are Midi-Chlorians And How Do They Affect The Force In Star Wars? A still from Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace | Credits: Lucasfilm Ltd.
The concept of the midi-chlorians is officially introduced in the prequel...
- 5/28/2024
- by Nishanth A
- FandomWire
Veteran filmmaker Quentin Tarantino has been vocal about his preferences when it comes to movies and he’s not afraid to criticize or slam those that did not hit the mark for him. One of his filmmaking idols is Steven Spielberg, and while he loves some of the director’s projects, there’s one he hates the most.
Harrison Ford and Sean Connery in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
It became controversial because the movie in question is Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. The film has been celebrated by many fans, so it’s a huge mystery why Tarantino did not like it.
Quentin Tarantino Isn’t A Huge Fan Of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
Quentin Tarantino on the set of Pulp Fiction
During an interview via ReelBlend podcast, Pulp Fiction director Quentin Tarantino shared that he is not a fan of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade,...
Harrison Ford and Sean Connery in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
It became controversial because the movie in question is Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. The film has been celebrated by many fans, so it’s a huge mystery why Tarantino did not like it.
Quentin Tarantino Isn’t A Huge Fan Of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
Quentin Tarantino on the set of Pulp Fiction
During an interview via ReelBlend podcast, Pulp Fiction director Quentin Tarantino shared that he is not a fan of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade,...
- 5/10/2024
- by Ariane Cruz
- FandomWire
Pretty much every single movie that George Lucas helmed from his Star Wars lore has been received with the utmost critical commendation from fans and critics worldwide. Needless to say, the mastermind has been bold with his works to the core, without hesitating to deliver the perfect blow to the viewers. Perhaps this was exactly why he was skeptical about one film that opted otherwise.
George Lucas. | Credit: AMC.
But what’s surprising is that this one particular film was one that actually went on to set the records for being the highest-grossing movie of all time from the film franchise: The Force Awakens from 2015. And making everything even more complex was Lucas, who initially delivered thoroughly harsh criticism of the movie before landing his final verdict claiming that fans would actually ‘love it.’
George Lucas was Initially Skeptical of The Force Awakens
Judging from Rotten Tomatoes score and Google users’ reviews,...
George Lucas. | Credit: AMC.
But what’s surprising is that this one particular film was one that actually went on to set the records for being the highest-grossing movie of all time from the film franchise: The Force Awakens from 2015. And making everything even more complex was Lucas, who initially delivered thoroughly harsh criticism of the movie before landing his final verdict claiming that fans would actually ‘love it.’
George Lucas was Initially Skeptical of The Force Awakens
Judging from Rotten Tomatoes score and Google users’ reviews,...
- 5/7/2024
- by Mahin Sultan
- FandomWire
Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill films are considered cult classics and amongst the director’s most iconic works. While the two parts of the blood-soaked revenge drama were filmed together, they were released within 6 months of each other owing to the filmmaker’s reluctance to fit the narrative into one film.
Uma Thurman in Kill Bill
Kill Bill: Volume 2 completed 20 years on April 16th, and was a fitting finale to the saga of The Bride played to perfection by Uma Thurman. In an interview a few years ago, Tarantino had a discussion with his lead star and spoke about the scenes he would have hypothetically cut off if he had decided to condense his story into just one film.
Quentin Tarantino Would Have Done Away With This Scene In His Cult Classic
Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill series worked magically thanks to the director’s decision to execute the revenge saga over two films.
Uma Thurman in Kill Bill
Kill Bill: Volume 2 completed 20 years on April 16th, and was a fitting finale to the saga of The Bride played to perfection by Uma Thurman. In an interview a few years ago, Tarantino had a discussion with his lead star and spoke about the scenes he would have hypothetically cut off if he had decided to condense his story into just one film.
Quentin Tarantino Would Have Done Away With This Scene In His Cult Classic
Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill series worked magically thanks to the director’s decision to execute the revenge saga over two films.
- 4/22/2024
- by Sharanya Sankar
- FandomWire
One of Hollywood’s most controversial figures, Harvey Weinstein, reportedly manipulated Good Will Hunting’s theatrical run. He did the most Harvey Weinstein thing possible, to allegedly undercut Robin Williams’ contractual terms. This was driven by what appeared to be pure greed, or that is what Kevin Smith would like to believe.
Weinstein’s company, Miramax, responsible for distributing the Oscar-winning film, abruptly pulled it from theaters to expedite its release on video, seemingly to prevent Williams from receiving a more favorable end of the agreed-upon deal.
Harvey Weinstein in an interview with CNN/YouTube How Harvey Weinstein Sabotaged Robin Williams’ Hefty Paycheck in Good Will Hunting
Kevin Smith, an executive producer on the film that won the best friend duo, Matt Damon and Ben Affleck their first Oscar, Good Will Hunting, published his book Secret Stash in 2021. In it, Smith discussed in great detail his experience working on the...
Weinstein’s company, Miramax, responsible for distributing the Oscar-winning film, abruptly pulled it from theaters to expedite its release on video, seemingly to prevent Williams from receiving a more favorable end of the agreed-upon deal.
Harvey Weinstein in an interview with CNN/YouTube How Harvey Weinstein Sabotaged Robin Williams’ Hefty Paycheck in Good Will Hunting
Kevin Smith, an executive producer on the film that won the best friend duo, Matt Damon and Ben Affleck their first Oscar, Good Will Hunting, published his book Secret Stash in 2021. In it, Smith discussed in great detail his experience working on the...
- 3/31/2024
- by Sampurna Banerjee
- FandomWire
George Lucas’ Star Wars saga featured Hayden Christensen in the role of Anakin Skywalker, the character who descends into the dark side of the Force to become the iconic antagonist Darth Vader. An integral moment in Anakin’s transformation unfolds during the events of Attack of the Clones. After witnessing his mother’s death, who was abducted by Tusken Raiders, Anakin massacres the men, women, and children of the camp in a rage.
George Lucas’ Star Wars: Attack of the Clones
In a recent interview with Empire Magazine, Christensen opened up about filming the emotionally intense scene, reflecting on George Lucas’ supportive presence amid challenges in capturing the pivotal moment on screen.
Hayden Christensen Reflected on George Lucas’ Support During Filming of Tusken Massacre Scene
In a recent interview with Empire Magazine, Hayden Christensen opened up about filming the emotionally charged scenes in George Lucas’ Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones.
George Lucas’ Star Wars: Attack of the Clones
In a recent interview with Empire Magazine, Christensen opened up about filming the emotionally intense scene, reflecting on George Lucas’ supportive presence amid challenges in capturing the pivotal moment on screen.
Hayden Christensen Reflected on George Lucas’ Support During Filming of Tusken Massacre Scene
In a recent interview with Empire Magazine, Hayden Christensen opened up about filming the emotionally charged scenes in George Lucas’ Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones.
- 3/3/2024
- by Laxmi Rajput
- FandomWire
Journalist Ashleigh Banfield. (Courtesy photo)
Ashleigh Banfield is sticking with NewsNation.
On Wednesday, the Nexstar Media Group-owned cable news channel said it had successfully negotiated a multi-year extension of Banfield’s contract, which will keep her eponymous prime-time conversation program on NewsNation for a while longer.
Banfield was one of NewsNation’s first hires, back when the channel was still operating under its previous branding, WGN America. She took over a slot occupied by a nightly news program in prime-time, vowing to resurrect the conversation-style chat show made popular by Charlie Rose and Larry King (CNN).
“I’m an avid news junkie,” Banfield said in an interview with Variety. “Something that’s been missing for me as a consumer has been the center lane — I’m exhausted by the breathless fights in cable news, and I long for the days when I could just be informed of what was...
Ashleigh Banfield is sticking with NewsNation.
On Wednesday, the Nexstar Media Group-owned cable news channel said it had successfully negotiated a multi-year extension of Banfield’s contract, which will keep her eponymous prime-time conversation program on NewsNation for a while longer.
Banfield was one of NewsNation’s first hires, back when the channel was still operating under its previous branding, WGN America. She took over a slot occupied by a nightly news program in prime-time, vowing to resurrect the conversation-style chat show made popular by Charlie Rose and Larry King (CNN).
“I’m an avid news junkie,” Banfield said in an interview with Variety. “Something that’s been missing for me as a consumer has been the center lane — I’m exhausted by the breathless fights in cable news, and I long for the days when I could just be informed of what was...
- 2/21/2024
- by Matthew Keys
- The Desk
Quentin Tarantino is the quintessential maverick of Hollywood. The quirky genius has carved a niche for himself with his unique brand of writing and storytelling that has won him critical and commercial acclaim. With the seamless blending of genres coupled with the ability to incorporate heavy dialogue without compromising on entertainment, Tarantino has proved that there is no one like him in the industry.
Quentin Tarantino in an interview with Charlie Rose
The Django Unchained filmmaker’s style also stands out for his clever use of subtext that allows audiences to make their own assumptions about a character or a situation. While unexplained and open-ended questions may not be the method that many directors adopt in their films, Tarantino was clear that this aspect of his craft was what made his movies interesting and worthwhile for viewers.
Suggested“He prides himself on understanding the business”: Quentin Tarantino’s Faith...
Quentin Tarantino in an interview with Charlie Rose
The Django Unchained filmmaker’s style also stands out for his clever use of subtext that allows audiences to make their own assumptions about a character or a situation. While unexplained and open-ended questions may not be the method that many directors adopt in their films, Tarantino was clear that this aspect of his craft was what made his movies interesting and worthwhile for viewers.
Suggested“He prides himself on understanding the business”: Quentin Tarantino’s Faith...
- 2/16/2024
- by Sharanya Sankar
- FandomWire
Welcome to The B-Side, from The Film Stage. Here we talk about movie stars! Not the movies that made them famous or kept them famous, but the ones that they made in between.
Today we chat about one of our best artists: Jodie Foster! Our B-Sides are Bugsy Malone, Catchfire (Backtrack), Nim’s Island, and The Beaver. Our esteemed guest (returning!) today is Katie Clark Gray of Uncompromised Creative. Keep an eye out for the upcoming Once Again (for the very first time) this year.
Topics here include: Jodie in the original Freaky Friday, John Turturro walking away with Catchfire, the turbulent making of Catchfire, Dennis Hopper’s recollection of the turbulent making of Catchfire in this Charlie Rose episode, Jodie on The Kelly Clarkson Show, and Jodie’s incredibly successful 1990s run. Other subjects touched on are the Black List fame of The Beaver screenplay and the controversy around getting it made,...
Today we chat about one of our best artists: Jodie Foster! Our B-Sides are Bugsy Malone, Catchfire (Backtrack), Nim’s Island, and The Beaver. Our esteemed guest (returning!) today is Katie Clark Gray of Uncompromised Creative. Keep an eye out for the upcoming Once Again (for the very first time) this year.
Topics here include: Jodie in the original Freaky Friday, John Turturro walking away with Catchfire, the turbulent making of Catchfire, Dennis Hopper’s recollection of the turbulent making of Catchfire in this Charlie Rose episode, Jodie on The Kelly Clarkson Show, and Jodie’s incredibly successful 1990s run. Other subjects touched on are the Black List fame of The Beaver screenplay and the controversy around getting it made,...
- 2/2/2024
- by Dan Mecca
- The Film Stage
A former producer on “60 Minutes” is suing CBS, CBS News and parent company Paramount Global for gender discrimination, claiming that she was wrongfully terminated from the newsmagazine program.
In a complaint obtained by Variety, which was filed on Tuesday in New York federal court, producer Alexandra Poolos says the network fired her after she was falsely accused of bullying an associate producer she supervised. Poolos indicates discrepancies in how her firing was handled by the company compared to several male producers and editors of “60 Minutes” who’ve allegedly been the subject of multiple sexual harassment complaints.
“Sexism and misogyny defined the workplace of CBS, including CBS News, over many years,” according to the complaint. Poolos cites sexual misconduct and harassment claims against former CBS chairman Leslie Moonves, ex-network anchor Charlie Rose and former “60 Minutes” executive producers Don Hewitt and Jeff Fager, as well as several other current producers on the program.
In a complaint obtained by Variety, which was filed on Tuesday in New York federal court, producer Alexandra Poolos says the network fired her after she was falsely accused of bullying an associate producer she supervised. Poolos indicates discrepancies in how her firing was handled by the company compared to several male producers and editors of “60 Minutes” who’ve allegedly been the subject of multiple sexual harassment complaints.
“Sexism and misogyny defined the workplace of CBS, including CBS News, over many years,” according to the complaint. Poolos cites sexual misconduct and harassment claims against former CBS chairman Leslie Moonves, ex-network anchor Charlie Rose and former “60 Minutes” executive producers Don Hewitt and Jeff Fager, as well as several other current producers on the program.
- 10/11/2023
- by Michaela Zee
- Variety Film + TV
A producer on CBS’s 60 Minutes is suing the network for firing her after she was accused of harassment while turning a blind eye to “far more egregious misconduct” by male employees.
The producer, Alexandra Poolos, says in a gender discrimination lawsuit filed against CBS on Tuesday in New York federal court that the company terminated her in violation of civil rights laws after she was falsely accused of bullying an associate producer she supervised. She points to discrepancies in how her firing was handled opposed to several male producers and editors of the program who’ve allegedly been the subject of various complaints for sexual harassment.
According to the complaint, “sexism and misogyny defined the workplace” at the network. She cites sexual misconduct and harassment claims against former CBS chairman Leslie Moonves, ex-network anchor Charlie Rose and former 60 Minutes executive producer Don Hewitt, as well as several...
The producer, Alexandra Poolos, says in a gender discrimination lawsuit filed against CBS on Tuesday in New York federal court that the company terminated her in violation of civil rights laws after she was falsely accused of bullying an associate producer she supervised. She points to discrepancies in how her firing was handled opposed to several male producers and editors of the program who’ve allegedly been the subject of various complaints for sexual harassment.
According to the complaint, “sexism and misogyny defined the workplace” at the network. She cites sexual misconduct and harassment claims against former CBS chairman Leslie Moonves, ex-network anchor Charlie Rose and former 60 Minutes executive producer Don Hewitt, as well as several...
- 10/11/2023
- by Winston Cho
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Aside from being a talented actor and director, Ben Affleck is also well known for being sad. At least, that's what the internet thinks. There was the whole "sad Batman" meme that did the rounds after images were first released of Affleck's Dark Knight looking particularly somber in the messy spectacle that was "Batman V. Superman: Dawn of Justice." Then, during an infamous interview for the film alongside Henry Cavill, Affleck seemed to zone out completely as his co-star spoke, leading to even more widespread "sad Affleck" memes. He even addressed it in a Radio 1 interview, saying, "It taught me not to do interviews with Henry Cavill where I don't say anything and they can lay Simon & Garfunkel tracks over it."
But these are just some of many memes that have immortalized the actor as a withdrawn, perpetually irritated type. The rest have focused on photos of him looking...
But these are just some of many memes that have immortalized the actor as a withdrawn, perpetually irritated type. The rest have focused on photos of him looking...
- 10/9/2023
- by Joe Roberts
- Slash Film
Director Martin Scorsese has made no secret about growing up in what he calls “a closed society.” Early years spent looking out the window of a Little Italy apartment into scenes of mid-20th century Manhattan—and at the kids he couldn’t play with due to asthma 0r the streetwise guys who would inform future gangster pictures—made him the storyteller he is today. His passion for cinema and for the Catholic Church, his two sanctuaries as a sickly child, were informed by this distinctly New York and working class Italian-American background.
His father Charles Scorsese teaching him how to carry oneself in that closed society, such as going to a neighborhood restaurant, influenced the scenes of Robert De Niro hanging out with Harvey Keitel in Mean Streets (1973), or Joe Pesci turning cold with Ray Liotta in Goodfellas (1990). Yet too often moviegoers, and even some film critics, are quick...
His father Charles Scorsese teaching him how to carry oneself in that closed society, such as going to a neighborhood restaurant, influenced the scenes of Robert De Niro hanging out with Harvey Keitel in Mean Streets (1973), or Joe Pesci turning cold with Ray Liotta in Goodfellas (1990). Yet too often moviegoers, and even some film critics, are quick...
- 9/27/2023
- by David Crow
- Den of Geek
When Apple TV+ first launched, one of its marquee shows was undoubtedly "The Morning Show." Starring Steve Carell, Jennifer Aniston, and Reese Witherspoon as the anchors of a popular morning talk show in trouble, it quickly gained notice for its star-studded cast as much as for its deliberate parallels to the upheavals in real-life broadcast journalism of the time.
Over the seasons, the series has become less directly based on real-life events, but echoes of familiar stories still remain.
Is "The Morning Show" Based on a True Story?
When the first season of "The Morning Show" debuted in 2019, it centered on a badly behaved, popular man anchor on a beloved morning show, which seemed almost ripped from the headlines. Mitch Kessler, the fictional anchor in hot water (played by Carell), is at the center of a sexual misconduct scandal, including the discovery of a remote "close door" button under his office desk.
Over the seasons, the series has become less directly based on real-life events, but echoes of familiar stories still remain.
Is "The Morning Show" Based on a True Story?
When the first season of "The Morning Show" debuted in 2019, it centered on a badly behaved, popular man anchor on a beloved morning show, which seemed almost ripped from the headlines. Mitch Kessler, the fictional anchor in hot water (played by Carell), is at the center of a sexual misconduct scandal, including the discovery of a remote "close door" button under his office desk.
- 9/15/2023
- by Amanda Prahl
- Popsugar.com
Quentin Tarantino revealed that he’d seen one of Johnny Depp’s less praised films. The filmmaker didn’t believe the movie was as bad as critics made it out to be. However, he did note there was one section of the feature that he found particularly awful.
What Quentin Tarantino thought about this 2013 Johnny Depp film Quentin Tarantino | Alessandra Benedetti/Getty Images
In 2013, Depp starred in the Disney adventure film The Lone Ranger alongside Armie Hammer. Depp played Native American Tonto beside Hammer’s John Reid, and followed the two battling crime in western times. However, the movie didn’t fair very well commercially or critically after it hit theaters.
One of the film’s few supporters happened to be Quentin Tarantino. In a 2013 interview with Les Inrockuptibles (via IndieWire), Tarantino felt the movie started off very promising.
“The first forty-five minutes are excellent,” Tarantino said. “The next forty-five minutes are a little soporific.
What Quentin Tarantino thought about this 2013 Johnny Depp film Quentin Tarantino | Alessandra Benedetti/Getty Images
In 2013, Depp starred in the Disney adventure film The Lone Ranger alongside Armie Hammer. Depp played Native American Tonto beside Hammer’s John Reid, and followed the two battling crime in western times. However, the movie didn’t fair very well commercially or critically after it hit theaters.
One of the film’s few supporters happened to be Quentin Tarantino. In a 2013 interview with Les Inrockuptibles (via IndieWire), Tarantino felt the movie started off very promising.
“The first forty-five minutes are excellent,” Tarantino said. “The next forty-five minutes are a little soporific.
- 9/15/2023
- by Antonio Stallings
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The headlines coming out of CBS News will soon be guided by a new executive.
Neeraj Khemlani, who arrived at the Paramount Global unit in 2021 to oversee CBS News and local stations along with Wendy McMahon, is leaving his role running the unit that produces “60 Minutes,” “CBS Evening News” and “Face The Nation,” among other programs. Khemlani told CBS News staffers Sunday that he has decided to exit and will instead pursue a new multi-year first-look deal with CBS that has him developing content including books for Simon & Schuster, documentaries and scripted series.
Many senior news executives and anchors sign contracts for three years or more. Khemlani has during a two-years-plus tenure helped to rework CBS News’ morning programming; eliminate divisions between the linear news staff and CBS News streaming operations; bolster its investigative unit; and inject new talent into the famously insular division, including Robert Costa, Natalie Morales and Cecilia Vega.
Neeraj Khemlani, who arrived at the Paramount Global unit in 2021 to oversee CBS News and local stations along with Wendy McMahon, is leaving his role running the unit that produces “60 Minutes,” “CBS Evening News” and “Face The Nation,” among other programs. Khemlani told CBS News staffers Sunday that he has decided to exit and will instead pursue a new multi-year first-look deal with CBS that has him developing content including books for Simon & Schuster, documentaries and scripted series.
Many senior news executives and anchors sign contracts for three years or more. Khemlani has during a two-years-plus tenure helped to rework CBS News’ morning programming; eliminate divisions between the linear news staff and CBS News streaming operations; bolster its investigative unit; and inject new talent into the famously insular division, including Robert Costa, Natalie Morales and Cecilia Vega.
- 8/13/2023
- by Brian Steinberg
- Variety Film + TV
Steve Buscemi has been in some of the best films and television series out there, from "Reservoir Dogs" to "Boardwalk Empire." His work spans a multitude of genres, but many of his most notable roles have a single through-line: violence. Buscemi has been cast as many a villainous character in gritty crime dramas, but in more recent years, the actor has moved largely into voice acting for children's animated features like "Boss Baby" or comedic shows like "Miracle Workers" and "Bupkis." What triggered this major career change for Buscemi? As it turns out, one of the best television shows of all time caused the actor to lose his appetite for on-screen bloodshed.
Although he had only a minor recurring role in "The Sopranos," Buscemi was instrumental in the series. Not only was his character a major part of Tony and Christopher's past and one of the show's best characters,...
Although he had only a minor recurring role in "The Sopranos," Buscemi was instrumental in the series. Not only was his character a major part of Tony and Christopher's past and one of the show's best characters,...
- 7/30/2023
- by Shae Sennett
- Slash Film
Elvis Presley was a rock n’ roll pioneer in the 1950s. Artists like Chuck Berry and Little Richard introduced the genre to many audiences, but Elvis made the genre skyrocket in popularity. He was also a pivotal figure for the youth, as his rebellious spirit infected the hearts of young listeners. Led Zeppelin’s Robert Plant was young when he first heard Elvis Presley in the U.K., and he said his music was a “call to arms.”
Robert Plant said Elvis Presley’s arrival in the U.K. was an awakening for young people
While Elvis’ music seems relatively tame by today’s standards, he was considered controversial in the 1950s. Not only was rock n’ roll seen as a rebellious form of music, but Elvis also shook things up with his eccentric performing style, including suggestive hip swinging and rapid leg movement.
In an interview with Jools Holland,...
Robert Plant said Elvis Presley’s arrival in the U.K. was an awakening for young people
While Elvis’ music seems relatively tame by today’s standards, he was considered controversial in the 1950s. Not only was rock n’ roll seen as a rebellious form of music, but Elvis also shook things up with his eccentric performing style, including suggestive hip swinging and rapid leg movement.
In an interview with Jools Holland,...
- 7/11/2023
- by Ross Tanenbaum
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Steve Miller Band’s “The Joker” is one of the most enduring classic rock hits from the 1970s. It’s also pretty bad. In fact, some lines of the song are pretty questionable.
Steve Miller Band | Rb / Staff The Steve Miller Band’s ‘The Joker’ isn’t funny and 1 line of it is creepy
The Steve Miller Band’s “The Joker” is a tepid slice of stoner rock. The only notable thing about its flaccid instrumentation is the slide whistle sound effect. It’s a sonic joke that isn’t close to being funny.
Meanwhile, the lyrics of “The Joker” aren’t doing the song any favors. It’s a song where the singer lists a bunch of his titles. He’s a joker, a smoker, a midnight toker, a sinner, a lover, a grinner etc. etc. It’s like Meredith Brooks’ “Bitch” without the lite feminism. Miller also...
Steve Miller Band | Rb / Staff The Steve Miller Band’s ‘The Joker’ isn’t funny and 1 line of it is creepy
The Steve Miller Band’s “The Joker” is a tepid slice of stoner rock. The only notable thing about its flaccid instrumentation is the slide whistle sound effect. It’s a sonic joke that isn’t close to being funny.
Meanwhile, the lyrics of “The Joker” aren’t doing the song any favors. It’s a song where the singer lists a bunch of his titles. He’s a joker, a smoker, a midnight toker, a sinner, a lover, a grinner etc. etc. It’s like Meredith Brooks’ “Bitch” without the lite feminism. Miller also...
- 5/14/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Nathan Lane used to be the King of old Broadway. Scratch that. Lane still sits from a high seat within the realm of American theater. In fact, when we catch up with the legendary, multi-Tony and Olivier award-winner, it’s during his day off from Studio 54. The other six days of the week, he’s at that famous nightclub turned theater, starring in Sharr White’s new memory play, Pictures from Home.
Nonetheless, for many theatergoers, the thought of Lane invariably brings to mind an iconic American musical-comedy: Mel Brooks’ The Producers. That dazzling blend of absurdist humor and showbiz schmaltz premiered in 2001 before going on to win 12 Tonys, the most for any musical or play to this day. And in the show, Lane played Max Bialystock, a Broadway producer of malleable morality who is introduced lamenting his current situation with the song “King of Broadway,” a tune with...
Nonetheless, for many theatergoers, the thought of Lane invariably brings to mind an iconic American musical-comedy: Mel Brooks’ The Producers. That dazzling blend of absurdist humor and showbiz schmaltz premiered in 2001 before going on to win 12 Tonys, the most for any musical or play to this day. And in the show, Lane played Max Bialystock, a Broadway producer of malleable morality who is introduced lamenting his current situation with the song “King of Broadway,” a tune with...
- 4/25/2023
- by David Crow
- Den of Geek
Sarah Jessica Parker has been in the business for a long time, and has her extensive filmography to prove it. But there came a time when Parker was more than disappointed by the types of movies that were being produced by Hollywood.
Sarah Jessica Parker didn’t feel people responded to her as a movie star Sarah Jessica Parker | Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic
Even in the earlier days of her career, Parker didn’t see herself becoming a movie star. The Sex and the City star once asserted that she was more drawn to the craft of acting than the glamour. Which meant Parker was only interested in putting out projects that were meaningful, regardless of its popularity.
“I think my motivation is to do good work that matters more to me at the end of the day than anything, of course. But I think I’ve been working for so...
Sarah Jessica Parker didn’t feel people responded to her as a movie star Sarah Jessica Parker | Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic
Even in the earlier days of her career, Parker didn’t see herself becoming a movie star. The Sex and the City star once asserted that she was more drawn to the craft of acting than the glamour. Which meant Parker was only interested in putting out projects that were meaningful, regardless of its popularity.
“I think my motivation is to do good work that matters more to me at the end of the day than anything, of course. But I think I’ve been working for so...
- 4/2/2023
- by Antonio Stallings
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Quentin Tarantino is mostly known for his film work behind the camera. But the filmmaker was also interested in a career in front of the camera as an actor. After doing Kill Bill, however, Tarantino decided to devote his focus solely on acting.
Quentin Tarantino originally wanted to be an actor Quentin Tarantino | Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic
Tarantino has been fascinated with writing and directing films from a young age. But when he pictured himself having a professional career in the film industry, it was as an actor. The Pulp Fiction creator even attended an acting school to further follow his dream of performing in films. But ironically, going to acting school was what convinced Tarantino he might have actually belonged on the director’s chair.
“When it all changed for me was, I joined a really good acting school in Toluca Lake. I was involved in it for many years.
Quentin Tarantino originally wanted to be an actor Quentin Tarantino | Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic
Tarantino has been fascinated with writing and directing films from a young age. But when he pictured himself having a professional career in the film industry, it was as an actor. The Pulp Fiction creator even attended an acting school to further follow his dream of performing in films. But ironically, going to acting school was what convinced Tarantino he might have actually belonged on the director’s chair.
“When it all changed for me was, I joined a really good acting school in Toluca Lake. I was involved in it for many years.
- 4/1/2023
- by Antonio Stallings
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
CNN is zeroing in on Gayle King and Charles Barkley to host a weekly primetime show for the network, as chairman and CEO Chris Licht aims to revitalize the ratings-challenged nighttime lineup.
The Wall Street Journal reported that a deal with King is being finalized, but sources said that talks are ongoing with the two personalities.
The intent has been to add an extra bit of star power to its 9 Pm Et primetime hour, which has lacked a permanent host since Chris Cuomo was fired in December, 2021. That time slot has been among the most competitive on cable news.
King and Barkley would be a bit of an unconventional choice for the slot, but the plans also would go against the cable news trend of scheduling a five-night-a-week personality in primetime hours. CNN is said to have talked to two dozen or so names about filling at least one night...
The Wall Street Journal reported that a deal with King is being finalized, but sources said that talks are ongoing with the two personalities.
The intent has been to add an extra bit of star power to its 9 Pm Et primetime hour, which has lacked a permanent host since Chris Cuomo was fired in December, 2021. That time slot has been among the most competitive on cable news.
King and Barkley would be a bit of an unconventional choice for the slot, but the plans also would go against the cable news trend of scheduling a five-night-a-week personality in primetime hours. CNN is said to have talked to two dozen or so names about filling at least one night...
- 3/27/2023
- by Ted Johnson
- Deadline Film + TV
Nearly a month after his “situationship” with Emily Ratajkowski ended, Eric André‘s ready to joke about his dating life. Just ask Katie Couric.
The 39-year-old comedian roped the TV news legend into his speech while accepting the Cult Favorite Award at Variety‘s Power of Comedy event to kick off the first night of the 2023 South by Southwest Festival in Austin, Texas. Like many of the night’s attendees, André was in shock after spotting Couric among the standing-room only crowd.
Eric Andre at SXSW — Photo: Hutton Supancic/Getty
After spotting her, André stopped mid-sentence during his speech and said he couldn’t believe that the person he thought looked like Couric actually was Couric.
“You’re in the presence of a f***ing queen,” exclaimed André, who almost a month ago posed nearly naked with Ratajkowski for a Nsfw selfie. “We’re dating.”
Read More: Emily Ratajkowski And...
The 39-year-old comedian roped the TV news legend into his speech while accepting the Cult Favorite Award at Variety‘s Power of Comedy event to kick off the first night of the 2023 South by Southwest Festival in Austin, Texas. Like many of the night’s attendees, André was in shock after spotting Couric among the standing-room only crowd.
Eric Andre at SXSW — Photo: Hutton Supancic/Getty
After spotting her, André stopped mid-sentence during his speech and said he couldn’t believe that the person he thought looked like Couric actually was Couric.
“You’re in the presence of a f***ing queen,” exclaimed André, who almost a month ago posed nearly naked with Ratajkowski for a Nsfw selfie. “We’re dating.”
Read More: Emily Ratajkowski And...
- 3/11/2023
- by Emerson Pearson
- ET Canada
Austin, Texas — Patton Oswalt, Phoebe Robinson, Eric Andre, Chelsea Handler and others were in fine form on Friday night as Variety helped kick off the 2023 SXSW festival and conference with its Power of Comedy event.
The kudos pay tribute to innovators in the business of being funny. Presenters and honorees who gathered at the Creek and the Cave nightclub in downtown Austin made mention of comedians facing a fraught moment as social norms and cultural attitudes are changing.
Mike Lawrence, who tag-teamed with Nick Thune as host for the night, noted that he had to show more identification when registering to get his SXSW conference badge than he would have to buy a gun.
“In Texas it’s harder to get a festival badge than to get a gun,” Lawrence said. “Go to a gun store and tell them ‘I hate Jews,’ you get a gun. Go to registration and say ‘I’m an artist.
The kudos pay tribute to innovators in the business of being funny. Presenters and honorees who gathered at the Creek and the Cave nightclub in downtown Austin made mention of comedians facing a fraught moment as social norms and cultural attitudes are changing.
Mike Lawrence, who tag-teamed with Nick Thune as host for the night, noted that he had to show more identification when registering to get his SXSW conference badge than he would have to buy a gun.
“In Texas it’s harder to get a festival badge than to get a gun,” Lawrence said. “Go to a gun store and tell them ‘I hate Jews,’ you get a gun. Go to registration and say ‘I’m an artist.
- 3/11/2023
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
Quentin Tarantino has floated around the possibility of doing another Kill Bill film. But the filmmaker hasn’t seemed to commit to the idea.
One of the reasons Uma Thurman said Tarantino wasn’t ready for a Kill Bill Vol. 3 was because of her looks.
How Uma Thurman helped Quentin Tarantino create ‘Kill Bill’ Quentin Tarantino | Michael Kovac/Getty Images
Tarantino and Thurman have only done three movies together. But those three movies were enough to have a huge influence on Thurman’s career trajectory. The pair first collaborated on Pulp Fiction, which turned Tarantino into one of Hollywood’s most well-known directors overnight. From there, Tarantino recalled forming a unique bond with Thurman that he couldn’t quite pinpoint the source of.
“It’s just this cool connection that happened while we were doing Pulp Fiction. I mean, von Sternberg had Marlene Dietrich, Hitchcock had Ingrid Bergman, Andre Techine had Catherine Deneuve.
One of the reasons Uma Thurman said Tarantino wasn’t ready for a Kill Bill Vol. 3 was because of her looks.
How Uma Thurman helped Quentin Tarantino create ‘Kill Bill’ Quentin Tarantino | Michael Kovac/Getty Images
Tarantino and Thurman have only done three movies together. But those three movies were enough to have a huge influence on Thurman’s career trajectory. The pair first collaborated on Pulp Fiction, which turned Tarantino into one of Hollywood’s most well-known directors overnight. From there, Tarantino recalled forming a unique bond with Thurman that he couldn’t quite pinpoint the source of.
“It’s just this cool connection that happened while we were doing Pulp Fiction. I mean, von Sternberg had Marlene Dietrich, Hitchcock had Ingrid Bergman, Andre Techine had Catherine Deneuve.
- 3/4/2023
- by Antonio Stallings
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Bill Murray is a comedy icon, but the actor has also demonstrated surprising range over the years. Early attempts at drama such as 1984’s The Razor’s Edge ultimately led the actor to a resurgence in dramatic turns later in his career. The most obvious turning point, of course, was 2003’s Lost in Translation, which director Sofia Coppola fought hard to get him to say “yes” to.
Bill Murray landed an Oscar nomination for ‘Lost in Translation’
Even within his comedic performances, Murray has often shown a natural talent for bringing complexity and pathos to his characters. So perhaps fans and critics shouldn’t been quite so surprised by how well Murray embodies the role in Lost in Translation. He plays Bob Harris, a fading movie star who befriends Charlotte (Scarlett Johansson) while in Japan to film a whiskey commercial.
Coppola’s melancholy comedy-drama earned Murray some of the best reviews of his career.
Bill Murray landed an Oscar nomination for ‘Lost in Translation’
Even within his comedic performances, Murray has often shown a natural talent for bringing complexity and pathos to his characters. So perhaps fans and critics shouldn’t been quite so surprised by how well Murray embodies the role in Lost in Translation. He plays Bob Harris, a fading movie star who befriends Charlotte (Scarlett Johansson) while in Japan to film a whiskey commercial.
Coppola’s melancholy comedy-drama earned Murray some of the best reviews of his career.
- 2/23/2023
- by Robert Yaniz Jr.
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
(To celebrate "Titanic" and its impending 25th-anniversary re-release, we've put together a week of explorations, inquires, and deep dives into James Cameron's box office-smashing disaster epic.)
Like many historical dramas, "Titanic" transplants a fictional story onto a real one. The ship and the tragedy were real, but Jack Dawson (Leonardo DiCaprio), Rose DeWitt Bukater (Kate Winslet), and the passion they shared weren't. That doesn't mean director James Cameron settled for inauthenticity. Even when showcasing digital alien worlds, Cameron is out to make his characters feel real.
Cameron shared how he sought this realism in a 1997 interview with Charlie Rose, shortly before the release of "Titanic." He spoke with someone who was alive in 1912 when the "Titanic" sank, but who had never been on the ship. By the late 1990s, less than a dozen Titanic survivors were still around and were all too young to remember what had happened. The last one,...
Like many historical dramas, "Titanic" transplants a fictional story onto a real one. The ship and the tragedy were real, but Jack Dawson (Leonardo DiCaprio), Rose DeWitt Bukater (Kate Winslet), and the passion they shared weren't. That doesn't mean director James Cameron settled for inauthenticity. Even when showcasing digital alien worlds, Cameron is out to make his characters feel real.
Cameron shared how he sought this realism in a 1997 interview with Charlie Rose, shortly before the release of "Titanic." He spoke with someone who was alive in 1912 when the "Titanic" sank, but who had never been on the ship. By the late 1990s, less than a dozen Titanic survivors were still around and were all too young to remember what had happened. The last one,...
- 2/9/2023
- by Devin Meenan
- Slash Film
(To celebrate "Titanic" and its impending 25th-anniversary re-release, we've put together a week of explorations, inquires, and deep dives into James Cameron's box office-smashing disaster epic.)
In 1912, the Titanic -- a ship that was called "unsinkable" -- hit an iceberg and sank, killing over 1,500 of the souls onboard. Some of those people were well-known business magnates, authors, and company owners. Many of those celebrities (some of whom survived) appeared as on-screen characters in James Cameron's 1997 epic film "Titanic." Some of them include Molly Brown (called "The Unsinkable Molly Brown"), played by Kathy Bates, business tycoon John Jacob Astor IV (Eric Braeden), Colonel Archibald Gracie IV (Bernard Fox), a writer who penned a book about the disaster, Benjamin Guggenheim (Michael Ensign) the mining titan, Isidor Straus (Lew Palter) and his wife Ida (Elsa Raven), the former owner of R.H. Macy and Company, among many others.
When the film came out,...
In 1912, the Titanic -- a ship that was called "unsinkable" -- hit an iceberg and sank, killing over 1,500 of the souls onboard. Some of those people were well-known business magnates, authors, and company owners. Many of those celebrities (some of whom survived) appeared as on-screen characters in James Cameron's 1997 epic film "Titanic." Some of them include Molly Brown (called "The Unsinkable Molly Brown"), played by Kathy Bates, business tycoon John Jacob Astor IV (Eric Braeden), Colonel Archibald Gracie IV (Bernard Fox), a writer who penned a book about the disaster, Benjamin Guggenheim (Michael Ensign) the mining titan, Isidor Straus (Lew Palter) and his wife Ida (Elsa Raven), the former owner of R.H. Macy and Company, among many others.
When the film came out,...
- 2/9/2023
- by Jenna Busch
- Slash Film
(To celebrate "Titanic" and its impending 25th-anniversary re-release, we've put together a week of explorations, inquires, and deep dives into James Cameron's box office-smashing disaster epic.)
Until just last month, when it was dethroned by "Top Gun: Maverick," "Titanic" was the highest-grossing film in Paramount Pictures' history. The film had a budget of 200 million; at the time of this writing, the worldwide gross is over 2 billion, according to Box Office Mojo. That's a pretty good take for the studio, but director James Cameron didn't make that much on it. While that sounds astounding, there is a pretty good reason for it.
The story of the aristocratic Rose (Kate Winslet), whose father has died and left her and her mother (Frances Fisher) penniless, the poor artist Jack (Leonardo DiCaprio), their love story, and the sinking of the famous ocean liner has captivated fans for a quarter of a century now.
Until just last month, when it was dethroned by "Top Gun: Maverick," "Titanic" was the highest-grossing film in Paramount Pictures' history. The film had a budget of 200 million; at the time of this writing, the worldwide gross is over 2 billion, according to Box Office Mojo. That's a pretty good take for the studio, but director James Cameron didn't make that much on it. While that sounds astounding, there is a pretty good reason for it.
The story of the aristocratic Rose (Kate Winslet), whose father has died and left her and her mother (Frances Fisher) penniless, the poor artist Jack (Leonardo DiCaprio), their love story, and the sinking of the famous ocean liner has captivated fans for a quarter of a century now.
- 2/8/2023
- by Jenna Busch
- Slash Film
(To celebrate "Titanic" and its impending 25th-anniversary re-release, we've put together a week of explorations, inquires, and deep dives into James Cameron's box office-smashing disaster epic.)
James Cameron was not quite the King of the World, or Hollywood for that matter, when he announced in 1995 that he was making an epic drama based on the doomed voyage of the Rms Titanic. He was viewed primarily as an action specialist and, in tandem with collaborators like Stan Winston and Dennis Murren, a visual effects pioneer. "The Terminator" was a B-movie classic that exploded into the mega-blockbuster of "T2: Judgment Day." In between those two movies, Cameron had hit the blockbuster A-list with "Aliens" and nearly lost it all with the pricey commercial disappointment of "The Abyss."
But it was at the bottom of that three-mile-deep trench that Cameron arrived at the project that would vault him to the rarefied,...
James Cameron was not quite the King of the World, or Hollywood for that matter, when he announced in 1995 that he was making an epic drama based on the doomed voyage of the Rms Titanic. He was viewed primarily as an action specialist and, in tandem with collaborators like Stan Winston and Dennis Murren, a visual effects pioneer. "The Terminator" was a B-movie classic that exploded into the mega-blockbuster of "T2: Judgment Day." In between those two movies, Cameron had hit the blockbuster A-list with "Aliens" and nearly lost it all with the pricey commercial disappointment of "The Abyss."
But it was at the bottom of that three-mile-deep trench that Cameron arrived at the project that would vault him to the rarefied,...
- 2/6/2023
- by Jeremy Smith
- Slash Film
Quentin Tarantino took a revolutionary and non-linear approach to narrative filmmaking in his first two features, "Reservoir Dogs" and "Pulp Fiction." The latter film tells three intertwining stories, the operative word here being "intertwining." None of these stories stand on their own, and Tarantino isn't afraid to admit that. What makes "Pulp Fiction" so unique is not each of its individual characters or stories, but the way they are woven together.
The writer-director has often said that his films are set in the "Quentin universe" as he described it to The New York Times. The characters all operate within the same world, apart from ours, that abides by a different logic — Tarantino's logic.
He's a film lover, but he wanted to take some beloved cinematic tropes and collage them together to create something more novelistic than traditionally dramatic. One homage, one quirky moment, and one big twist aren't enough for...
The writer-director has often said that his films are set in the "Quentin universe" as he described it to The New York Times. The characters all operate within the same world, apart from ours, that abides by a different logic — Tarantino's logic.
He's a film lover, but he wanted to take some beloved cinematic tropes and collage them together to create something more novelistic than traditionally dramatic. One homage, one quirky moment, and one big twist aren't enough for...
- 2/3/2023
- by Shae Sennett
- Slash Film
For the first time ever, Quentin Tarantino’s 1994 film “Pulp Fiction” is being released on 4K Blu-ray, and we at TheWrap have a few copies to give away.
All you have to do is sign up to enter our giveaway right here.
The “Pulp Fiction” 4K Blu-ray – which is currently available for purchase – includes the film in 4K Ultra HD, access to a Digital copy of the film and the following bonus features:
4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc
Not the Usual Mindless Boring Getting to Know You Chit ChatHere are Some Facts on the Fiction Enhanced Trivia Track (subtitle file)
Blu-ray Disc
Not the Usual Mindless Boring Getting to Know You Chit Chat Here Are Some Facts on the Fiction Pulp Fiction: The Facts – Documentary Deleted ScenesBehind the Scenes MontagesProduction Design Featurette Siskel & Ebert “At the Movies”- The Tarantino Generation Independent Spirit Awards Cannes Film Festival – Palme d’Or...
All you have to do is sign up to enter our giveaway right here.
The “Pulp Fiction” 4K Blu-ray – which is currently available for purchase – includes the film in 4K Ultra HD, access to a Digital copy of the film and the following bonus features:
4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc
Not the Usual Mindless Boring Getting to Know You Chit ChatHere are Some Facts on the Fiction Enhanced Trivia Track (subtitle file)
Blu-ray Disc
Not the Usual Mindless Boring Getting to Know You Chit Chat Here Are Some Facts on the Fiction Pulp Fiction: The Facts – Documentary Deleted ScenesBehind the Scenes MontagesProduction Design Featurette Siskel & Ebert “At the Movies”- The Tarantino Generation Independent Spirit Awards Cannes Film Festival – Palme d’Or...
- 12/9/2022
- by Adam Chitwood
- The Wrap
Adam Sandler is best known for his goofy comedic films, but he has also had several renowned dramatic roles. Perhaps his most compelling performance was in the 2002 film "Punch-Drunk Love," written and directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Paul Thomas Anderson. The cast also included Philip Seymour Hoffman, an Academy Award-winning actor and a frequent collaborator of Anderson's. Hoffman plays Sandler's adversary onscreen, an angry mattress salesman, but the two developed a great rapport behind the scenes.
Sandler agreed to work with Anderson because he was a fan of his previous films, "Boogie Nights" and "Magnolia," he told Charlie Rose. Consequently, it came as no surprise when he learned that Philip Seymour Hoffman, who had major roles in both films, would be playing a supporting role in "Punch-Drunk Love." The two actors actually met years before ever setting foot on the set. In fact, Hoffman actually auditioned for the part of...
Sandler agreed to work with Anderson because he was a fan of his previous films, "Boogie Nights" and "Magnolia," he told Charlie Rose. Consequently, it came as no surprise when he learned that Philip Seymour Hoffman, who had major roles in both films, would be playing a supporting role in "Punch-Drunk Love." The two actors actually met years before ever setting foot on the set. In fact, Hoffman actually auditioned for the part of...
- 12/9/2022
- by Shae Sennett
- Slash Film
Quentin Tarantino's thoughts on actors have made a lot of headlines lately. The director is the latest Hollywood celebrity to comment on the fact that big movie stars just aren't as much of a thing anymore (a phenomenon that /Film's own Witney Seibold reported on just a few weeks ago), sparking lots of debates online. But even if Tarantino thinks that celebrity actors don't enjoy the same hypnotic marketing power that they once did, he's still willing to give praise where it's due — and certainly, few actors deserve more praise than Robert De Niro.
As anyone who's watched one of De Niro's many classics can tell you, the man is an incredible actor (even if his filmography includes a few less-than-stellar roles). It might be cliche to say that his performance in "Taxi Driver" is deeply, deeply chilling, but I'll never forget how disturbed it made me on my first watch.
As anyone who's watched one of De Niro's many classics can tell you, the man is an incredible actor (even if his filmography includes a few less-than-stellar roles). It might be cliche to say that his performance in "Taxi Driver" is deeply, deeply chilling, but I'll never forget how disturbed it made me on my first watch.
- 11/24/2022
- by Demetra Nikolakakis
- Slash Film
Today, Academy Award-winning writer Aaron Sorkin is known for creating complex characters who steal the hearts of viewers with witty dialogue and inspiring speeches. He's the man behind Jack Nicholson's declaration, "You can't handle the truth," and Will McAvoy's assertion that "America is not the greatest country in the world anymore." These days, Sorkin's ability to entertain an audience with the everyday lives of sportscasters, news anchors, and senior White House staff is above reproach, but that wasn't the case 24 years ago.
Since 2016, the world has been keeping a very close, no-nonsense eye on the political landscape, and The White House, but not so long ago it was all considered a big joke. In January 1998, the world was shaken when The Drudge Report revealed that President Bill Clinton was having an affair with a young White House intern, Monica Lewinsky. Suddenly, the highest office in the land was...
Since 2016, the world has been keeping a very close, no-nonsense eye on the political landscape, and The White House, but not so long ago it was all considered a big joke. In January 1998, the world was shaken when The Drudge Report revealed that President Bill Clinton was having an affair with a young White House intern, Monica Lewinsky. Suddenly, the highest office in the land was...
- 11/23/2022
- by Christian Gainey
- Slash Film
Democrat Tim Ryan’s efforts to capture a U.S. Senate seat in Ohio ended in defeat on Tuesday night as Ryan lost to Republican J.D. Vance.
To many Democrats, Ohio looked like a lost cause. To Ryan, it was the Democrats, not Ohio, who were lost. His party had a branding problem, Ryan reasoned, one that had alienated the working-class voters in his Youngstown-based congressional district. Those voters had cast their ballots for both Donald Trump and Ryan in 2020, and Ryan had bet his run for U.S. Senate...
To many Democrats, Ohio looked like a lost cause. To Ryan, it was the Democrats, not Ohio, who were lost. His party had a branding problem, Ryan reasoned, one that had alienated the working-class voters in his Youngstown-based congressional district. Those voters had cast their ballots for both Donald Trump and Ryan in 2020, and Ryan had bet his run for U.S. Senate...
- 11/9/2022
- by Kara Voght
- Rollingstone.com
Steve Martin is one of the elder statesmen of comedy. The banjo-strumming funnyman has cracked audiences up for almost 50 years, from movies like "The Jerk" and "Little Shop of Horrors," to his recent television stint on "Only Murders in the Building." During his prime, he was one of the biggest draws in comedy movies — John Hughes, for example, only agreed to direct "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" because of Martin's involvement.
But all great talents need to get their start somewhere, and Martin took a particularly unconventional path to show business. In an interview he did with Charlie Rose in 1996, Martin shared how he got his first performing opportunity at The Happiest Place on Earth:
"I was 10 years old, we had just moved to Garden Grove, California, and I didn't really know much about Disneyland. It was just opening, it was 1955, the summer of 1955, and a friend of mine — his name...
But all great talents need to get their start somewhere, and Martin took a particularly unconventional path to show business. In an interview he did with Charlie Rose in 1996, Martin shared how he got his first performing opportunity at The Happiest Place on Earth:
"I was 10 years old, we had just moved to Garden Grove, California, and I didn't really know much about Disneyland. It was just opening, it was 1955, the summer of 1955, and a friend of mine — his name...
- 11/8/2022
- by Matt Rainis
- Slash Film
CNN hopes it can warm people up to its new morning program.
The Warner Bros. Discovery-backed outlet has released a suite of fresh promos for “CNN This Morning” that show hosts Don Lemon, Poppy Harlow and Kaitlin Collins hanging out over coffee, a first look at the trio and their chemistry as the network bets on a new A.M. format to help vie more competitively in one of the most competitive time periods for TV news.
“We want familiarity in the morning,” says Ryan Kadro, the CNN development executive who has been working on the program. “We really want the audience to feel at home with the show.” The new program kicks off November 1.
In a marked change from how CNN typically presents its programs, the new promos show the hosts chatting in a restaurant, reflecting on how they know each other and what morning news audiences crave.
The Warner Bros. Discovery-backed outlet has released a suite of fresh promos for “CNN This Morning” that show hosts Don Lemon, Poppy Harlow and Kaitlin Collins hanging out over coffee, a first look at the trio and their chemistry as the network bets on a new A.M. format to help vie more competitively in one of the most competitive time periods for TV news.
“We want familiarity in the morning,” says Ryan Kadro, the CNN development executive who has been working on the program. “We really want the audience to feel at home with the show.” The new program kicks off November 1.
In a marked change from how CNN typically presents its programs, the new promos show the hosts chatting in a restaurant, reflecting on how they know each other and what morning news audiences crave.
- 10/20/2022
- by Brian Steinberg
- Variety Film + TV
Kevin Spacey became visibly distraught in a New York City courtroom on Monday afternoon, breaking down as he blamed his publicist for convincing him to publicly apologize to Anthony Rapp in 2017 after the “Star Trek: Discovery” actor accused him of sexual misconduct.
“I was being encouraged to apologize and I’ve learned a lesson, which is never apologize for something that you didn’t do,” Spacey said. “I regret my entire statement.”
Spacey then choked up and began to cry, as he said, “It’s my responsibility. I put it out there. It was really wrong. It was really bad and I’m deeply sorry. I have to own that.”
Rapp made his allegations in a BuzzFeed article as Hollywood was engulfed in one sexual harassment or abuse scandal after another, with moguls, media players and stars like Harvey Weinstein, Charlie Rose, Louis C.K., Matt Lauer and others accused of misdeeds.
“I was being encouraged to apologize and I’ve learned a lesson, which is never apologize for something that you didn’t do,” Spacey said. “I regret my entire statement.”
Spacey then choked up and began to cry, as he said, “It’s my responsibility. I put it out there. It was really wrong. It was really bad and I’m deeply sorry. I have to own that.”
Rapp made his allegations in a BuzzFeed article as Hollywood was engulfed in one sexual harassment or abuse scandal after another, with moguls, media players and stars like Harvey Weinstein, Charlie Rose, Louis C.K., Matt Lauer and others accused of misdeeds.
- 10/17/2022
- by Brent Lang and Antonio Ferme
- Variety Film + TV
Tim Ryan didn’t hold back during a debate against J.D. Vance in the Ohio Senate race. The congressman called his opponent an “ass-kisser” — a callback to when the former president said at a rally that Vance was “in love with me” and “kissing my ass.”
“I’m from Ohio,” Ryan said during a Monday night debate. “I don’t kiss anyone’s ass like him. Ohio needs an ass kicker not an ass-kisser.”
Ryan: I’m for Ohio. I don’t kiss anyone’s ass like him. Ohio needs...
“I’m from Ohio,” Ryan said during a Monday night debate. “I don’t kiss anyone’s ass like him. Ohio needs an ass kicker not an ass-kisser.”
Ryan: I’m for Ohio. I don’t kiss anyone’s ass like him. Ohio needs...
- 10/11/2022
- by Peter Wade
- Rollingstone.com
Wes Anderson is one of the most distinguished working directors today, but he thought his career might be over after his very first film. The young director was incredibly excited for the world to see "Bottle Rocket" when his Sundance short got picked up by a major Hollywood producer. Sadly, he faced a seriously crushing reality check when the film was poorly received. It was a miracle that he got his second film made, especially since it was an even more expensive venture. Luckily, "Bottle Rocket" gained Anderson a few fans in the movie business that stepped in to fund his sophomore film — the ultimate quirky coming-of-age comedy, "Rushmore."
"Bottle Rocket" follows a group of three novice criminals on a haphazard spree. It was also the acting and co-writing debut of Owen Wilson, Anderson's college friend. Polly Platt, who produced hugely popular '80s rom-coms like "Say Anything" and "Terms of Endearment,...
"Bottle Rocket" follows a group of three novice criminals on a haphazard spree. It was also the acting and co-writing debut of Owen Wilson, Anderson's college friend. Polly Platt, who produced hugely popular '80s rom-coms like "Say Anything" and "Terms of Endearment,...
- 10/9/2022
- by Shae Sennett
- Slash Film
"Rushmore" was the film that put Wes Anderson on the map, but it was also a return to his roots. The coming-of-age feature was shot at the same Houston high school that the director himself attended as a teenager. The strong memories associated with Anderson's old school and his hometown deeply — and even subconsciously — informed the making of "Rushmore." Returning to his old stomping grounds aided Anderson in creating a timeless and raw expression of his adolescence.
Anderson's sophomore film centers around Max, a student with high academic ambitions and very low grades. He is a jack of all trades and master of none, but he does have a knack for putting on plays. Anderson admitted that there are "parallels" between Max and himself to Charlie Rose:
"The school where we filmed is my school... my school in Houston, that's where we shot it. And the plays that he...
Anderson's sophomore film centers around Max, a student with high academic ambitions and very low grades. He is a jack of all trades and master of none, but he does have a knack for putting on plays. Anderson admitted that there are "parallels" between Max and himself to Charlie Rose:
"The school where we filmed is my school... my school in Houston, that's where we shot it. And the plays that he...
- 10/6/2022
- by Shae Sennett
- Slash Film
Click here to read the full article.
Amid the torrent of accusations leveled against powerful Hollywood men in the frenzied first few months of the #MeToo era, industry observers often shared the same jaded expectation. Short of arrest or indictment, the thinking went, the accused would be back on their feet after a brief time-out and a few memory-cleansing news cycles, carrying on with their careers unaffected. The dollar is king; Hollywood always forgets; etc.
This hasn’t happened. In fact, comebacks — if they materialize at all — are strikingly and significantly circumscribed. One of #MeToo’s greatest victories, at the practical level, has been its unrelenting administration of professional punishment.
Think about how few prominent individuals felled by sexual harassment or assault allegations in the post-Weinstein era have returned to an equivalent stature. The category excludes the likes of Jamie Foxx and Ryan Seacrest, whose denials of the allegations against...
Amid the torrent of accusations leveled against powerful Hollywood men in the frenzied first few months of the #MeToo era, industry observers often shared the same jaded expectation. Short of arrest or indictment, the thinking went, the accused would be back on their feet after a brief time-out and a few memory-cleansing news cycles, carrying on with their careers unaffected. The dollar is king; Hollywood always forgets; etc.
This hasn’t happened. In fact, comebacks — if they materialize at all — are strikingly and significantly circumscribed. One of #MeToo’s greatest victories, at the practical level, has been its unrelenting administration of professional punishment.
Think about how few prominent individuals felled by sexual harassment or assault allegations in the post-Weinstein era have returned to an equivalent stature. The category excludes the likes of Jamie Foxx and Ryan Seacrest, whose denials of the allegations against...
- 9/30/2022
- by Gary Baum
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Click here to read the full article.
Unless otherwise noted, the accused denied some or all of the allegations against them.
2006 Tarana Burke
Activist Tarana Burke coins “Me Too” on MySpace.
2014
Oct. 17: Comedian Hannibal Buress’ riff about Bill Cosby resurfaces long-ignored rape accusations. An investigation of Cosby follows.
2016
July 21: Fox News chairman Roger Ailes is forced out amid allegations that he sexually harassed several women at the company.
Oct. 7: “When you’re a star, they let you do it” — The Washington Post publishes leaked Access Hollywood footage in which then-presidential candidate Donald Trump boasts of committing sexual assault.
2017 The Woman’s March of Jan. 21, 2017, set the stage for takedowns of alleged abusers like Matt Lauer.
Jan. 21: Millions of Americans take part in the Women’s March a day after President Trump’s inauguration.
March 19: Fox News ousts Bill O’Reilly following multiple harassment claims.
Oct. 5:...
Unless otherwise noted, the accused denied some or all of the allegations against them.
2006 Tarana Burke
Activist Tarana Burke coins “Me Too” on MySpace.
2014
Oct. 17: Comedian Hannibal Buress’ riff about Bill Cosby resurfaces long-ignored rape accusations. An investigation of Cosby follows.
2016
July 21: Fox News chairman Roger Ailes is forced out amid allegations that he sexually harassed several women at the company.
Oct. 7: “When you’re a star, they let you do it” — The Washington Post publishes leaked Access Hollywood footage in which then-presidential candidate Donald Trump boasts of committing sexual assault.
2017 The Woman’s March of Jan. 21, 2017, set the stage for takedowns of alleged abusers like Matt Lauer.
Jan. 21: Millions of Americans take part in the Women’s March a day after President Trump’s inauguration.
March 19: Fox News ousts Bill O’Reilly following multiple harassment claims.
Oct. 5:...
- 9/29/2022
- by Julian Sancton
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
When filmmaker Kathryn Ferguson was growing up in Northern Ireland in the late 1980s, she says the whole of the island – the North and the Republic – desperately needed transformation.
“The Troubles were still rumbling on, and the Catholic Church was still very much in power in the South,” she notes. “It was pretty gray and miserable and you just felt like you didn’t have many options and you didn’t have a voice, and abortion was banned everywhere.”
Sundance Review: Sinéad O’Connor Documentary ‘Nothing Compares’
An unexpected voice for those voiceless would emerge in the form of a Dublin singer with an uncompromising presence — Sinéad O’Connor. She appeared on the scene not just to entertain but to challenge.
“She then arrived as like this alien and booted the door down. And we were all just like, ‘Whoa! Hello, who’s this?’” Ferguson recalls. “Just everything about her — the music was so phenomenal.
“The Troubles were still rumbling on, and the Catholic Church was still very much in power in the South,” she notes. “It was pretty gray and miserable and you just felt like you didn’t have many options and you didn’t have a voice, and abortion was banned everywhere.”
Sundance Review: Sinéad O’Connor Documentary ‘Nothing Compares’
An unexpected voice for those voiceless would emerge in the form of a Dublin singer with an uncompromising presence — Sinéad O’Connor. She appeared on the scene not just to entertain but to challenge.
“She then arrived as like this alien and booted the door down. And we were all just like, ‘Whoa! Hello, who’s this?’” Ferguson recalls. “Just everything about her — the music was so phenomenal.
- 9/24/2022
- by Matthew Carey
- Deadline Film + TV
When Chris Wallace’s talk show returns today on HBO Max, there won’t be many changes from its previous incarnation: Sitting on a spartan set with a black backdrop, he interviews celebrities, politicians, authors and other boldfaced names. He even sings, a bit, with Shania Twain.
The biggest change is that it is not on CNN+. Back in March, Who’s Talking to Chris Wallace? was one of the ill-fated subscription streaming service’s signature shows, only to disappear when the venture was shut down by CNN’s new corporate parent Warner Bros. Discovery.
Fall TV Premiere Dates For New & Returning Series On Broadcast, Cable & Streaming
Each Friday, three interviews will drop on HBO Max, with the best highlights featured on CNN on Sundays at 7 p.m. Et — an unusual arrangement in the world of streaming.
In a Deadline interview along with his executive producer, Javier De Diego, Wallace acknowledged that,...
The biggest change is that it is not on CNN+. Back in March, Who’s Talking to Chris Wallace? was one of the ill-fated subscription streaming service’s signature shows, only to disappear when the venture was shut down by CNN’s new corporate parent Warner Bros. Discovery.
Fall TV Premiere Dates For New & Returning Series On Broadcast, Cable & Streaming
Each Friday, three interviews will drop on HBO Max, with the best highlights featured on CNN on Sundays at 7 p.m. Et — an unusual arrangement in the world of streaming.
In a Deadline interview along with his executive producer, Javier De Diego, Wallace acknowledged that,...
- 9/23/2022
- by Ted Johnson
- Deadline Film + TV
June Carter Cash was destined to be a country music star. She was the daughter of Maybelle Carter, who revolutionized the way country music musicians played their guitars, and, later, the wife and better half of superstar Johnny Cash.
Today, Carter's life and career have become intertwined with the Man in Black, but she made her professional debut at the Grand Ole Opry and toured with Elvis Presley before hooking up with Cash. So when Reese Witherspoon was tapped to play Carter in the Johnny Cash biopic, "Walk the Line," she knew she had some pretty big stage shoes to fill.
Hailing from Nashville, Tennessee, Witherspoon certainly knew that portraying a member of country music royalty was a big job, but she was up for it. However, she was far less confident about singing Carter's famous songs, which she had not initially agreed to do.
'Hoodwinked'
Back in...
Today, Carter's life and career have become intertwined with the Man in Black, but she made her professional debut at the Grand Ole Opry and toured with Elvis Presley before hooking up with Cash. So when Reese Witherspoon was tapped to play Carter in the Johnny Cash biopic, "Walk the Line," she knew she had some pretty big stage shoes to fill.
Hailing from Nashville, Tennessee, Witherspoon certainly knew that portraying a member of country music royalty was a big job, but she was up for it. However, she was far less confident about singing Carter's famous songs, which she had not initially agreed to do.
'Hoodwinked'
Back in...
- 9/12/2022
- by Christian Gainey
- Slash Film
Humphrey Bogart may have built himself a reputation as the perfect smoldering lead — the tough guy who could banter with the villain, save the day, then wash his cares away with a nightcap — but he was far from pretentious about it. Rather than always insisting upon playing the lead role, Bogart was excited by small parts. And despite his widespread success, he never saw minor characters as beneath him.
Bogart wasn't shy about his willingness to experiment, either. When actress and journalist Hedda Hopper asked him if he had ever turned down a role because it was too small, the mega-star replied:
"Somebody once asked my pal [character actor] George Tobias that same question ... and George said, 'There are no small parts, there are only small actors.' Well, that goes for me, too.'"
And experiment Bogart did. Though he primarily played serious, heavy characters (and dubbed them his favorites), Bogart...
Bogart wasn't shy about his willingness to experiment, either. When actress and journalist Hedda Hopper asked him if he had ever turned down a role because it was too small, the mega-star replied:
"Somebody once asked my pal [character actor] George Tobias that same question ... and George said, 'There are no small parts, there are only small actors.' Well, that goes for me, too.'"
And experiment Bogart did. Though he primarily played serious, heavy characters (and dubbed them his favorites), Bogart...
- 9/9/2022
- by Demetra Nikolakakis
- Slash Film
The typical evening-news program give viewers all the news they need to know in less than 30 minutes. John Dickerson’s take on the format aims to unpack the headlines of the day and offer something most news programs don’t — perspective.
Dickerson will lead CBS News’ step into an emerging frontier, an evening-news program that doesn’t air on a TV network, but streams instead, presumably for a younger, more tech-savvy audience. “CBS News Prime Time With John Dickerson,” a new hour-long program, debuts tonight at 7 p.m. eastern on CBS News’ streaming outlets, and will appear live Monday through Thursday. The goal is for Dickerson, a former host of “Face The Nation” and a longtime political journalist and analyst, to provide insight and historical context around the events of the day so viewers gain a deeper understanding of the news cycle.
Dickerson intends to use the program to “to explore the world,...
Dickerson will lead CBS News’ step into an emerging frontier, an evening-news program that doesn’t air on a TV network, but streams instead, presumably for a younger, more tech-savvy audience. “CBS News Prime Time With John Dickerson,” a new hour-long program, debuts tonight at 7 p.m. eastern on CBS News’ streaming outlets, and will appear live Monday through Thursday. The goal is for Dickerson, a former host of “Face The Nation” and a longtime political journalist and analyst, to provide insight and historical context around the events of the day so viewers gain a deeper understanding of the news cycle.
Dickerson intends to use the program to “to explore the world,...
- 9/6/2022
- by Brian Steinberg
- Variety Film + TV
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