Derek Luke, best known for his starring role turn in Denzel Washington’s directorial debut Antwone Fisher, has signed with Gersh for representation.
Luke, a veteran film and TV actor, has recent credits that include Disney+’s The Crossover, a coming-of-age drama about two middle school basketball prodigies based on a novel by Kwame Alexander, to bow on April 5. The actor also appears in two movies directed by Katie Holmes: Alone Together and Rare Objects.
Luke reunited with Holmes after their work in Pieces of April. He earned an Independent Spirit Award for his breakout role as Hollywood newcomer in Antwone Fisher.
Luke’s other work includes Silas Howard’s Darby and the Dead for Hulu, Dreamworks’ Biker Boyz, Pete Berg’s Friday Night Lights, Phillip Noyce’s Catch a Fire, Spike Lee’s Miracle at St. Anna and Marvel’s Captain America, where he appeared opposite Chris Evans.
On the big screen,...
Luke, a veteran film and TV actor, has recent credits that include Disney+’s The Crossover, a coming-of-age drama about two middle school basketball prodigies based on a novel by Kwame Alexander, to bow on April 5. The actor also appears in two movies directed by Katie Holmes: Alone Together and Rare Objects.
Luke reunited with Holmes after their work in Pieces of April. He earned an Independent Spirit Award for his breakout role as Hollywood newcomer in Antwone Fisher.
Luke’s other work includes Silas Howard’s Darby and the Dead for Hulu, Dreamworks’ Biker Boyz, Pete Berg’s Friday Night Lights, Phillip Noyce’s Catch a Fire, Spike Lee’s Miracle at St. Anna and Marvel’s Captain America, where he appeared opposite Chris Evans.
On the big screen,...
- 3/27/2023
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Screen Media has promoted Seth Needle to executive vice president, global acquisitions and co-productions. Needle, who has been with Screen Media for a decade, will continue to report to David Fannon, president of Screen Media and executive vice president of distribution at Chicken Soup for the Soul Entertainment.
Needle oversees all acquisition efforts at Screen Media, including finding domestic new releases and foreign sales. He also programs the company’s Crackle Plus network. In addition, he oversees Screen Media’s involvement in the company’s co-production efforts.
Screen Media also announced the hiring of Katharyn Howe to the post of vice president, global acquisitions and co-productions. Howe will report directly to Needle and will be responsible for continuing the company’s acquisitions and productions efforts, while also managing the department’s staff, which includes Creative Executive Conor McAdam and Managers of Acquisitions Brendan Murray and Logan Taylor.
“I am very...
Needle oversees all acquisition efforts at Screen Media, including finding domestic new releases and foreign sales. He also programs the company’s Crackle Plus network. In addition, he oversees Screen Media’s involvement in the company’s co-production efforts.
Screen Media also announced the hiring of Katharyn Howe to the post of vice president, global acquisitions and co-productions. Howe will report directly to Needle and will be responsible for continuing the company’s acquisitions and productions efforts, while also managing the department’s staff, which includes Creative Executive Conor McAdam and Managers of Acquisitions Brendan Murray and Logan Taylor.
“I am very...
- 6/9/2021
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Chris Messina has signed with CAA for representation. The actor, who had been with Wme, starred in Hulu’s The Mindy Project and next can be seen opposite Amy Adams in HBO/Blumhouse’s limited series Sharp Objects, which premieres July 8.
His TV credits also include Aaron Sorkin’s HBO series The Newsroom and FX’s Damages opposite Glenn Close and Rose Byrne.
On the film side, Messina appeared in Best Picture Oscar winner Argo as well as Live by Night, Julie & Julia and Away We Go from Sam Mendes. He marked his directorial debut with 2014 film Alex of Venice, in which he also starred.
Messina continues to be repped by Gendler & Kelly.
His TV credits also include Aaron Sorkin’s HBO series The Newsroom and FX’s Damages opposite Glenn Close and Rose Byrne.
On the film side, Messina appeared in Best Picture Oscar winner Argo as well as Live by Night, Julie & Julia and Away We Go from Sam Mendes. He marked his directorial debut with 2014 film Alex of Venice, in which he also starred.
Messina continues to be repped by Gendler & Kelly.
- 6/26/2018
- by Amanda N'Duka
- Deadline Film + TV
Netflix adds new movies almost every day, which only makes it harder to find ones worth watching. That’s where IndieWire comes in. From low-budget American gems to foreign film masterpieces, these are the overlooked independent movies you’ve got to make time for on Netflix. All titles are now available to stream.
Read More: 7 Netflix Original Movies That Are Worth Seeking Out
“6 Years” (2015)
“6 Years” provides a moving snapshot of a troubled relationship. The movie follows a young couple facing the titular anniversary as their future is challenged by various spats and infidelities. With an improvisatory style and two heartbreaking performances from Taissa Farmiga and Ben Rosenfield, “6 Years” imbues its traditional narrative with a fiery edge. Read IndieWire’s review.
“A Woman, A Part“ (2016)
In her feature directorial debut, Elisabeth Subrin confronts industry-wide sexism head on, making it clear that her protagonist’s experiences are not unique and dismantling any...
Read More: 7 Netflix Original Movies That Are Worth Seeking Out
“6 Years” (2015)
“6 Years” provides a moving snapshot of a troubled relationship. The movie follows a young couple facing the titular anniversary as their future is challenged by various spats and infidelities. With an improvisatory style and two heartbreaking performances from Taissa Farmiga and Ben Rosenfield, “6 Years” imbues its traditional narrative with a fiery edge. Read IndieWire’s review.
“A Woman, A Part“ (2016)
In her feature directorial debut, Elisabeth Subrin confronts industry-wide sexism head on, making it clear that her protagonist’s experiences are not unique and dismantling any...
- 7/27/2017
- by Zack Sharf
- Indiewire
Three Hollywood insiders explained how they got their first big break in the entertainment industry at TheWrap’s Breaking Into the Business event on Wednesday night. Producer Alex Noyer of You Know Films, actress and screenwriter Katie Nehra and veteran casting director Marci Liroff sat down with TheWrap’s Sharon Waxman in Los Angeles to discuss their careers and give advice to college students looking to break into entertainment and media. Nehra, who co-wrote Chris Messina’s 2014 directorial debut “Alex of Venice,” said that her first break came from playwright John Patrick Shanley, who cast her in his play “Sailor’s Song.
- 12/9/2016
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
MaryAnn’s quick take…
May be unique in the cinematic annals of manchildren in that its protagonist goes from overgrown adolescent to midlife crisis without any intervening adulthood. I’m “biast” (pro): nothing
I’m “biast” (con): nothing
(what is this about? see my critic’s minifesto)
You have two kids,” says the Saintly Sitcom Wife to her husband. “I have three.” Cue laugh tracks sprinkled with a few awwws: it’s so charming and romantic, ain’t it, when a woman has to mother her husband. And it’s very conducive to nookie, of course. Except it isn’t, and there’s nothing charming or funny about a 40-year-old man — like Perry here — who has never grown up.
It’s so charming and romantic, ain’t it, when a woman has to mother her husband.
Ordinary World — titled Geezer when it debuted at Tribeca Film Festival this past spring,...
May be unique in the cinematic annals of manchildren in that its protagonist goes from overgrown adolescent to midlife crisis without any intervening adulthood. I’m “biast” (pro): nothing
I’m “biast” (con): nothing
(what is this about? see my critic’s minifesto)
You have two kids,” says the Saintly Sitcom Wife to her husband. “I have three.” Cue laugh tracks sprinkled with a few awwws: it’s so charming and romantic, ain’t it, when a woman has to mother her husband. And it’s very conducive to nookie, of course. Except it isn’t, and there’s nothing charming or funny about a 40-year-old man — like Perry here — who has never grown up.
It’s so charming and romantic, ain’t it, when a woman has to mother her husband.
Ordinary World — titled Geezer when it debuted at Tribeca Film Festival this past spring,...
- 10/26/2016
- by MaryAnn Johanson
- www.flickfilosopher.com
A new VOD service has arrived in the UK with the goal of bringing little-seen gems to home audiences.
Founder and entrepreneur Martin Warner claimed Flix Premiere was the world’s first digital cineplex, although the precise significance of that remained unclear given the increasing prevalence of VOD platforms.
Speaking to Screen International recently, Warner said the launch was the first step in global expansion and that he aimed to be in the Us soon, and in France, Spain, Germany, Australia and Canada by the end of May.
Flix Premiere aims to introduce eight or nine new titles each week and will champion quality films that struggle to make a noise in the over-crowded distribution landscape.
‘Tickets’ cost £3.99 (approximately $5.81 at time of writing) and special packages are available.
Once purchased, the film is available for 24 hours and can be viewed on all browsers. A mobile version will be offered shortly.
Launch titles...
Founder and entrepreneur Martin Warner claimed Flix Premiere was the world’s first digital cineplex, although the precise significance of that remained unclear given the increasing prevalence of VOD platforms.
Speaking to Screen International recently, Warner said the launch was the first step in global expansion and that he aimed to be in the Us soon, and in France, Spain, Germany, Australia and Canada by the end of May.
Flix Premiere aims to introduce eight or nine new titles each week and will champion quality films that struggle to make a noise in the over-crowded distribution landscape.
‘Tickets’ cost £3.99 (approximately $5.81 at time of writing) and special packages are available.
Once purchased, the film is available for 24 hours and can be viewed on all browsers. A mobile version will be offered shortly.
Launch titles...
- 4/28/2016
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
• only 22% of 2015’s movies had female protagonists
• best and worst representations of women on film in 2015 (and the average Watw score for the year)
• critics are slightly more likely to rate a film highly if it represents women well
• mainstream moviegoers are not turned off by films with female protagonists
• movies that represent women well are just as likely to be profitable as movies that don’t, and are less risky as business propositions
The Where Are the Women? project was designed to drill deep down into the films of 2015 in order to determine how well — or how poorly — they represented women. The project has now come to its end, and you can examine the final ranking here. The ranking includes 270 films released in the Us, Canada, and the UK, in both limited and wide release (including every wide-release North American film and most of the UK wide-release films). The...
• best and worst representations of women on film in 2015 (and the average Watw score for the year)
• critics are slightly more likely to rate a film highly if it represents women well
• mainstream moviegoers are not turned off by films with female protagonists
• movies that represent women well are just as likely to be profitable as movies that don’t, and are less risky as business propositions
The Where Are the Women? project was designed to drill deep down into the films of 2015 in order to determine how well — or how poorly — they represented women. The project has now come to its end, and you can examine the final ranking here. The ranking includes 270 films released in the Us, Canada, and the UK, in both limited and wide release (including every wide-release North American film and most of the UK wide-release films). The...
- 4/11/2016
- by MaryAnn Johanson
- www.flickfilosopher.com
A marvelous little movie: compact, efficient, almost unbearably intense, smartly (perhaps accidentally) feminist. A glorious treat of pulp genre fun. I’m “biast” (pro): loved Cloverfield, love Mary Elizabeth Winstead
I’m “biast” (con): wary of the forced franchise concept
(what is this about? see my critic’s minifesto)
Fans of movies generally don’t want to hear the sort of thing we started hearing about 10 Cloverfield Lane when its existence first became known a few months ago: that producer J.J. Abrams took a spec script called The Cellar that had been floating around for a while and rejigged it into a movie that would maybe kinda work as a sequel to 2008’s Cloverfield (on which he also served as producer). This sounds like the worst sort of Hollywood folly: bad enough when movies are created as franchise cutouts, but now they’re shoving preexisting stories into franchise...
I’m “biast” (con): wary of the forced franchise concept
(what is this about? see my critic’s minifesto)
Fans of movies generally don’t want to hear the sort of thing we started hearing about 10 Cloverfield Lane when its existence first became known a few months ago: that producer J.J. Abrams took a spec script called The Cellar that had been floating around for a while and rejigged it into a movie that would maybe kinda work as a sequel to 2008’s Cloverfield (on which he also served as producer). This sounds like the worst sort of Hollywood folly: bad enough when movies are created as franchise cutouts, but now they’re shoving preexisting stories into franchise...
- 3/17/2016
- by MaryAnn Johanson
- www.flickfilosopher.com
Inexcusably self-indulgent. Tarantino gratifies his enormous self-love and his amusement at his own genius at the expense of all else. I’m “biast” (pro): loved Tarantino’s last two films…
I’m “biast” (con): …but really hate some of his films, too
(what is this about? see my critic’s minifesto)
Damn. So after the marvels of Inglourious Basterds and Django Unchained, Quentin Tarantino has swung back to the Kill Bill style of filmmaking, which I described in my review of Basterds as a cinematic “circle jerk in which he and his fans get off on one another and how clever they all are to be such rapacious film geeks.” With the inexcusably self-indulgent The Hateful Eight, Tarantino has returned to the gratification of his enormous self-love and his amusement at his own genius at the expense of all else.
There are no characters to like in Eight.
I’m “biast” (con): …but really hate some of his films, too
(what is this about? see my critic’s minifesto)
Damn. So after the marvels of Inglourious Basterds and Django Unchained, Quentin Tarantino has swung back to the Kill Bill style of filmmaking, which I described in my review of Basterds as a cinematic “circle jerk in which he and his fans get off on one another and how clever they all are to be such rapacious film geeks.” With the inexcusably self-indulgent The Hateful Eight, Tarantino has returned to the gratification of his enormous self-love and his amusement at his own genius at the expense of all else.
There are no characters to like in Eight.
- 1/11/2016
- by MaryAnn Johanson
- www.flickfilosopher.com
Every week we dive into the cream of the crop when it comes to home releases, including Blu-ray and DVDs, as well as recommended deals of the week. Check out our rundown below and return every Tuesday for the best (or most interesting) films one can take home. Note that if you’re looking to support the site, every purchase you make through the links below helps us and is greatly appreciated.
Jurassic World (Colin Trevorrow)
As all good sequels must learn, the key to success is delivering on the promise set forth by the original while also providing something fresh and improved. Just ask James Cameron, a master at the task, who injected action-packed life into both Aliens and Terminator 2: Judgment Day without negating or watering down the mythology still relevant beneath those newfound popcorn blockbuster sensibilities. Neither The Lost World nor Jurassic Park III did it. They...
Jurassic World (Colin Trevorrow)
As all good sequels must learn, the key to success is delivering on the promise set forth by the original while also providing something fresh and improved. Just ask James Cameron, a master at the task, who injected action-packed life into both Aliens and Terminator 2: Judgment Day without negating or watering down the mythology still relevant beneath those newfound popcorn blockbuster sensibilities. Neither The Lost World nor Jurassic Park III did it. They...
- 10/20/2015
- by TFS Staff
- The Film Stage
Careful, Mary Elizabeth Winstead: Aliens are coming, and they want to eat your brain.
The actress, who starred in A&E’s one-and-done adaptation of The Returned, will topline BrainDead, CBS’ upcoming comic-thriller from Good Wife creators Robert and Michelle King.
RelatedFall TV Spectacular: Exclusive Scoop and Photos on 43 Returning Favorites!
Billed as a cross between The Strain and The West Wing, BrainDead stars Winstead as Laurel, the daughter of a Democratic political dynasty who left D.C. to become a documentary filmmaker, but is pulled back into the family business when her brother needs political help. Now a young,...
The actress, who starred in A&E’s one-and-done adaptation of The Returned, will topline BrainDead, CBS’ upcoming comic-thriller from Good Wife creators Robert and Michelle King.
RelatedFall TV Spectacular: Exclusive Scoop and Photos on 43 Returning Favorites!
Billed as a cross between The Strain and The West Wing, BrainDead stars Winstead as Laurel, the daughter of a Democratic political dynasty who left D.C. to become a documentary filmmaker, but is pulled back into the family business when her brother needs political help. Now a young,...
- 9/10/2015
- TVLine.com
There isn’t an authentic human motivation or emotion to be found here. The bar has been raised too high on comic-book movies for us to accept junk like this. I’m “biast” (pro): nothing
I’m “biast” (con): nothing
(what is this about? see my critic’s minifesto)
I knew from the opening moments of this 187,874th reboot of Fantastic Four that it would be getting everything wrong in most shiftless ways. Because that’s when it suggests that Oyster Bay, on Long Island, is across the East River from Manhattan and has a lovely view of the Empire State Building. Which it isn’t, and which it doesn’t. That may seem like a really nitpicky sort of nitpick, but this is only the first example of the appalling laziness of this all-origin, no-story superhero origin story. Director Josh Trank (Chronicle), who cowrote the script with...
I’m “biast” (con): nothing
(what is this about? see my critic’s minifesto)
I knew from the opening moments of this 187,874th reboot of Fantastic Four that it would be getting everything wrong in most shiftless ways. Because that’s when it suggests that Oyster Bay, on Long Island, is across the East River from Manhattan and has a lovely view of the Empire State Building. Which it isn’t, and which it doesn’t. That may seem like a really nitpicky sort of nitpick, but this is only the first example of the appalling laziness of this all-origin, no-story superhero origin story. Director Josh Trank (Chronicle), who cowrote the script with...
- 8/6/2015
- by MaryAnn Johanson
- www.flickfilosopher.com
It’s almost August and that means Netflix is about to give their content a refresh. Some of the notable titles leaving include: Family Ties: Season 1-7, Unbreakable, and Titanic. So if you haven’t seen some of these titles, plan your nights accordingly. We of course can look forward more than a few new titles including The Hurt Locker, White God (pictured above), and Girl Meets World season 1.
Available August 1
Alvin and the Chipmunks Meet Frankenstein (1999)
In this animated adventure, Alvin, Simon, and Theodore revel in their new gig at a movie theme park by wandering the grounds after hours. Among the attractions is the spooky Frankenstein’s Castle, where a real mad scientist is bringing the monster to life. But when the boys cross paths with the creature (Frank Welker), they soon learn that appearances can be deceiving, and Frankenstein is more misunderstood than malevolent.
Asylum (2005)
A...
Available August 1
Alvin and the Chipmunks Meet Frankenstein (1999)
In this animated adventure, Alvin, Simon, and Theodore revel in their new gig at a movie theme park by wandering the grounds after hours. Among the attractions is the spooky Frankenstein’s Castle, where a real mad scientist is bringing the monster to life. But when the boys cross paths with the creature (Frank Welker), they soon learn that appearances can be deceiving, and Frankenstein is more misunderstood than malevolent.
Asylum (2005)
A...
- 7/29/2015
- by Graham McMorrow
- City of Films
New on Netflix in August: The original series "Narcos," about Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar, starring Wagner Moura of "Elysium;" and the site's first Spanish-language original series, "Club de Cuervos," about a brother and sister who inherit a soccer team.
You'll also be able to stream the critically acclaimed film "White Dog," Best Picture Oscar winner "The Hurt Locker," the Kristin Wiig dramedy "Welcome to Me," and Simon Pegg as an assassin in "Kill Me Three Times."
There are also new episodes of "Doctor Who," "Revenge," "Once Upon a Time," "Transporter: The Series," and "GIrl Meets World." Happy binging!
Here's a full rundown of what's new on Netflix in August 2015, provided by Netflix. As always, all titles and dates are subject to change. We've also go you covered in terms of what's leaving Netflix in August 2015, in case you were wondering.
Available August 1
"Alvin and the Chipmunks Meet Frankenstein" (1999)
"Asylum...
You'll also be able to stream the critically acclaimed film "White Dog," Best Picture Oscar winner "The Hurt Locker," the Kristin Wiig dramedy "Welcome to Me," and Simon Pegg as an assassin in "Kill Me Three Times."
There are also new episodes of "Doctor Who," "Revenge," "Once Upon a Time," "Transporter: The Series," and "GIrl Meets World." Happy binging!
Here's a full rundown of what's new on Netflix in August 2015, provided by Netflix. As always, all titles and dates are subject to change. We've also go you covered in terms of what's leaving Netflix in August 2015, in case you were wondering.
Available August 1
"Alvin and the Chipmunks Meet Frankenstein" (1999)
"Asylum...
- 7/27/2015
- by Sharon Knolle
- Moviefone
Humans are inherently programmed with an emotion known as “comfort” that kicks in as a safety net when uncertainty becomes too daunting, as a way of masking our scared vulnerability. Think how you’d react if your life changed tomorrow in the most drastic of ways. You lose your house, a significant other walks out, and you’re left to pick up the pieces all by your lonesome. It’s a terrifying, paralyzing fear that many of us dread, which is why we find solace in the “comfort” of monotonous routines, familiar emotions, and a recurring cycle that we’ve become “good” at managing – a theory that Chris Messina challenges through his new film, Alex Of Venice.
Mary Elizabeth Winstead plays the titular Alex, a workaholic who begins to crumble under the weight of her chaotically overturned life. After her husband George (Chris Messina) walks out with no warning, Alex...
Mary Elizabeth Winstead plays the titular Alex, a workaholic who begins to crumble under the weight of her chaotically overturned life. After her husband George (Chris Messina) walks out with no warning, Alex...
- 4/23/2015
- by Matt Donato
- We Got This Covered
Mary Elizabeth Winstead’s lawyer, wife, and mother reflects realities of modern women’s complicated and harried lives that movies often ignore.
Click here for the ongoing ranking of 2015’s films for female representation.
Note: This is not a “review” of Alex of Venice! It is simply an examination of how well or how poorly it represents women. (A movie that represents women well can still be a terrible film; a movie that represents women poorly can still be a great film.) Read my review of Alex of Venice.
See the full rating criteria. (Criteria that do not apply to this film have been deleted in this rating for maximum readability.)
This rating is brought to you without paywall restrictions by my generous Kickstarter supporters. If you missed out on the Kickstarter and would like to support this project, you may:
• become a monthly or yearly subscriber of FlickFilospher.com...
Click here for the ongoing ranking of 2015’s films for female representation.
Note: This is not a “review” of Alex of Venice! It is simply an examination of how well or how poorly it represents women. (A movie that represents women well can still be a terrible film; a movie that represents women poorly can still be a great film.) Read my review of Alex of Venice.
See the full rating criteria. (Criteria that do not apply to this film have been deleted in this rating for maximum readability.)
This rating is brought to you without paywall restrictions by my generous Kickstarter supporters. If you missed out on the Kickstarter and would like to support this project, you may:
• become a monthly or yearly subscriber of FlickFilospher.com...
- 4/22/2015
- by MaryAnn Johanson
- www.flickfilosopher.com
Mary Elizabeth Winstead is eminently relatable in a compassionate, human-scaled movie of the sort that movies have almost forgotten of late. I’m “biast” (pro): I am desperate for stories about women
I’m “biast” (con): nothing
(what is this about? see my critic’s minifesto)
Alex’s life is falling apart. Her husband, George (Chris Messina: Palo Alto), has had it with being a stay-at-home father and househusband and has hit the road. Her son, Dakota (Skylar Gaertner: They Came Together), is lonely and needs to make more friends, or so his teachers say. Her Dad (Don Johnson: The Other Woman), who lives with them, is having worrisome trouble with his memory. Her sister, Lily (Katie Nehra), has moved back into help out in George’s absence but could be doing more harm than good. And her work as an environmental lawyer for a tiny storefront activist...
I’m “biast” (con): nothing
(what is this about? see my critic’s minifesto)
Alex’s life is falling apart. Her husband, George (Chris Messina: Palo Alto), has had it with being a stay-at-home father and househusband and has hit the road. Her son, Dakota (Skylar Gaertner: They Came Together), is lonely and needs to make more friends, or so his teachers say. Her Dad (Don Johnson: The Other Woman), who lives with them, is having worrisome trouble with his memory. Her sister, Lily (Katie Nehra), has moved back into help out in George’s absence but could be doing more harm than good. And her work as an environmental lawyer for a tiny storefront activist...
- 4/20/2015
- by MaryAnn Johanson
- www.flickfilosopher.com
Touch of Venice: Messina’s Understated, Observational Debut
There’s much to admire in actor Chris Messina’s assured, astutely observed directorial debut, Alex of Venice. Namely its central performance from Mary Elizabeth Winstead, who carries this understated character study that rather uneventfully charts a workaholic woman’s mildly difficult navigation through the denial that her marriage is over. As written by its trio of writers (with Jessica Goldberg joined by first time screenwriters Katie Nehara and Justin Shilton), its dramatic possibilities are severely downplayed, instead attempting to reflect meaning off intertextual echoes borrowed from Chekov’s The Cherry Orchard (the play being staged within the film).
An attorney for an eco-advocacy group, Alex (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) is left reeling when her high school sweetheart husband George (Messina) abruptly announces he’s unhappy with their marriage. A taken-for-granted stay-at-home dad, who cares for both their young son and Alex’s...
There’s much to admire in actor Chris Messina’s assured, astutely observed directorial debut, Alex of Venice. Namely its central performance from Mary Elizabeth Winstead, who carries this understated character study that rather uneventfully charts a workaholic woman’s mildly difficult navigation through the denial that her marriage is over. As written by its trio of writers (with Jessica Goldberg joined by first time screenwriters Katie Nehara and Justin Shilton), its dramatic possibilities are severely downplayed, instead attempting to reflect meaning off intertextual echoes borrowed from Chekov’s The Cherry Orchard (the play being staged within the film).
An attorney for an eco-advocacy group, Alex (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) is left reeling when her high school sweetheart husband George (Messina) abruptly announces he’s unhappy with their marriage. A taken-for-granted stay-at-home dad, who cares for both their young son and Alex’s...
- 4/17/2015
- by Nicholas Bell
- IONCINEMA.com
Mary Elizabeth Winstead is one of those rare actresses who can take on anything – whether it’s geek fare like “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World” and “Final Destination” or small, serious indie dramas like “Smashed.” She’s the very definition of versatile. With another critically acclaimed role in Chris Messina’s directorial debut, “Alex of Venice” (out today in theaters and VOD), Winstead sat down with toofab’s Brian Particelli to talk about why she loves going back and forth between big budget films and indies and the frustrations that come from the latter. toofab: You’re on an indie roll right now, what draws you to these kinds of films? Mary: Its just the bigger films tend to be male driven. It’s kind of hard to find like an interesting complex female role in those worlds. Not to say they aren’t great movies, but from time to...
- 4/17/2015
- by tooFab Staff
- TooFab
I really admire Mary Elizabeth Winstead's career choices. She started out as a Scream Queen and then dabbled with big, bad studio movies. Lately her focus has been on roles in smaller films that really make an impact. Winstead still does those big, bad studio roles, but who wouldn't? Many of those movies are fun to watch, so I imagine it's just the same making them. Last week we spoke on the phone and discussed a variety of topics. Among them: her latest role in the eye-opening Alex of Venice (my review from last year's Tribeca Film Festival -- please excuse my ridiculously cool headline), the challenges of tackling the horror genre, our mutual love for independent cinema, and how she balances her fans on social...
[Read the whole post on twitchfilm.com...]...
[Read the whole post on twitchfilm.com...]...
- 4/16/2015
- Screen Anarchy
This weekend, Kevin James returns to keep our streets safe in "Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2," a group of online chat room friends are haunted by a mysterious force in "Unfriended," and the Disneynature movie "Monkey Kingdom" follows a newborn monkey and its mother as they struggle to survive in the jungles of South Asia.
Also in theaters this weekend: "Child 44" stars Tom Hardy as a disgraced member of the military police investigating a series of nasty child murders during the Stalin-era Soviet Union. Noomi Rapace, Joel Kinnaman, and Gary Oldman also star in this dramatic thriller. "True Story" follows a disgraced New York Times reporter (Jonah Hill) whose investigation of an accused killer (James Franco) morphs into a game of cat-and-mouse. In "Felix and Meira," an unusual romance blossoms between two lost souls who inhabit the same neighborhood but vastly different worlds. "The Dead Lands" follows the teenage...
Also in theaters this weekend: "Child 44" stars Tom Hardy as a disgraced member of the military police investigating a series of nasty child murders during the Stalin-era Soviet Union. Noomi Rapace, Joel Kinnaman, and Gary Oldman also star in this dramatic thriller. "True Story" follows a disgraced New York Times reporter (Jonah Hill) whose investigation of an accused killer (James Franco) morphs into a game of cat-and-mouse. In "Felix and Meira," an unusual romance blossoms between two lost souls who inhabit the same neighborhood but vastly different worlds. "The Dead Lands" follows the teenage...
- 4/16/2015
- by Jonny Black
- Moviefone
When Chris Messina was casting his feature film directorial debut Alex of Venice, he only had one person in mind to play the stoner grandfather—Don Johnson. "I went up north where he lives and he took me to his son's basketball game," Messina tells me. "And I pretended I cared, I'd watch the game and I'd be like, 'He's really good. Now, do you want to the movie?' It took some more convincing. "He kind of hemmed and hawed, understandably [with] a first time director," Messina said. "His agents were probably like, 'It's the guy from The Mindy Project' and he was probably like, 'What's The Mindy Project?'" Fortunately, the Miami...
- 4/16/2015
- E! Online
These days, Chris is extremely excited about his directorial debut. "Alex of Venice" tells the tale of one woman (the excellent Mary Elizabeth Winstead) whose life becomes complicated after her husband (Messina) abandons both her and their son. Thanks to his extensive work in front of the camera, Messina knew what he wanted to do once he got behind it. "I like having a voice [as an actor] and if I don't have a voice I get very uncomfortable," he tells toofab. "I don't like being told 'Stand here, say this, more funny, faster' and all that stuff. I wanted to create a space where there would be no 'No,' and we would just keeping saying 'Yes, let's try this,' 'Yes, that's a great idea." "I've worked with great directors where they've gave me wings, but often I've worked with s**t directors where they've clipped my wings and I don't...
- 4/15/2015
- by tooFab Staff
- TooFab
Editor’s note: Our review of Alex of Venice originally ran during 2014’s Tribeca Film Fest, but we’re re-posting it now as the film opens this Friday in limited release. Mary Elizabeth Winstead has the “one to watch” thing down pat. The former teen actress has now blossomed into one of independent film’s most reliable and relatable leading ladies and her steady rise up the cinematic ranks – from the drunken darkness of Smashed to the dark humor of Faults, with a little The Thing and A Good Day to Die Hard thrown in for a touch of blockbuster fun– has long been someone worth watching, and now. For his directorial debut, actor Chris Messina has quite wisely built a story around Winstead’s charms, setting her up as the eponymous Alex for his Alex of Venice, an amiable outing that serves as yet another reminder that Winstead is more than enough of a draw on...
- 4/15/2015
- by Kate Erbland
- FilmSchoolRejects.com
There's a line at the end of a Chekhov play that goes, "Life's gone on as if I'd never lived." This does a passable job summarizing Chris Messina's Alex of Venice, a trifling yet nonetheless poignant snapshot of a young woman trying to come to terms with both immediate personal crises and the dawning knowledge that — to paraphrase Trip Harrison from Meatballs — maybe it all just doesn't matter. An "overworked environmental lawyer" (like there's any other kind these days), Alex (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) is not only attempting to stop a new hotel development in Southern California's vanishing wetlands (like there's any other kind these days), but also dealing with the burden of being the only remotely competent adult in a collection of giant children. </...
- 4/15/2015
- Village Voice
Plot: Alex (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) is a young lawyer with a thriving career whose husband George (Chris Messina) stays home to take care of their son Dakota (Skylar Gaertner) and her middle-aged actor father (Don Johnson). When George walks out on the family, Alex is forced to rely on her father and irresponsible sister Lily (Katie Nehra) for help, while also trying to rebuild her once picture-perfect life. Review: Alex Of Venice is an impressive directorial debut for actor Chris...
- 4/14/2015
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
Read More: Watch: Mary Elizabeth Winstead Has Lost Control In The First Trailer For ‘Alex Of Venice’Chris Messina is an actor best known for his work on Mindy Kallng's sitcom "The Mindy Project." Now he's made his feature directorial debut with "Alex of Venice," which he also stars in. In the drama, Mary Elizabeth Winstead ("Smashed") plays Alex, an attorney whose life is thrown into disarray after her husband (Messina) unexpectedly leaves her. Now, she must piece together her own life while also holding together her crumbling family. Indiewire's Nigel M. Smith spoke to Messina for AOL Build about the project and what it was like to direct his debut feature. Here are some of the key highlights from the talk. You can watch it below. Messina doesn't like the phrase, "Action!" Messina thinks the chaotic nature of a film set can intrude on an actor's process. "Maybe it's...
- 4/13/2015
- by Travis Clark
- Indiewire
We've got an exclusive clip from Alex of Venice — The Mindy Project's Chris Messina's directorial debut, and the story of a family dealing with a surprising shake-up. Mary Elizabeth Winstead plays Alex, who has to figure things out after her husband, George (Messina), leaves her with a 10-year-old and her unreliable father (Don Johnson). In this exclusive clip, we see Messina's George on this way out — a cruel acknowledgement that he isn't getting what he wants from his supposedly happy little family. Alex is blindsided. Things aren't always as perfect as they seem. Catch Alex of Venice on-demand April 17.
- 4/13/2015
- by Lindsey Weber
- Vulture
Our fingers are so crossed that The Mindy Project will be back for a fourth season. "I don't know," Chris Messina insists when asked if has any pick-up intel he could share with us. "You'll probably find out faster than I will. I'm the last person to know these things." While we doubt that, Messina did say he's anxious to see Danny as a father. "I'd love to see Danny and this baby," said Messina. (I talked to the actor while he was promoting the April 17 release of his feature film directorial debut Alex of Venice—more on that later.) "I never imagined I would be on a TV show with a baby, certainly not this one because, you know, in the pilot I said to...
- 4/10/2015
- E! Online
If you haven't been paying attention to the choices Mary Elizabeth Winstead has been making, maybe it's about time to see what the actress has been up to. Last month she led the excellent cult drama "Faults," and she's on the small screen in the eerie "The Returned." She also gives another solid performance in "Alex Of Venice," and today we have an exclusive clip from the film. Read More: 'Alex Of Venice' Starring Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Don Johnson, And Chris Messina The directorial debut of Chris Messina, who also stars alongside Don Johnson, Derek Luke, Katie Nehra, and Sklar Gaertner, the story follows a workaholic environmental attorney who finds her life shaken up when her husband suddenly leaves the family. As you'll see in this clip, she struggles to put together the choices that have found her on this path. "Alex Of Venice" arrives in limited release on April 17th.
- 4/9/2015
- by Edward Davis
- The Playlist
Summer blockbuster season is just around the corner, but there's no need to wait until then to see a great movie. April brings us a wide variety of women-centric projects, as well as quite a few films helmed and/or written by women.
The month starts off with "Woman in Gold," starring Helen Mirren as a Jewish woman on a journey to recover her family's heirlooms, which was stolen by the Nazis. It's based on a true story, and Mirren roots the film with her powerful presence. "Closer to the Moon" is another WWII-era drama set for an April release, this one based on the crime capers of a group of Jewish resistance fighters a few years after the end of the war. "Marie's Story" is another period piece, centering around the efforts of a 19th-century nun to help a girl born blind and deaf.
There are a few more women-focused dramas being released in April, including the much-buzzed "Clouds of Sils Maria," which garnered Kristen Stewart the prestigious Cesar Award for supporting actress. Stewart has made waves for being the first American actress to win the French award, and the film looks to capitalize on that with its American release. “Félix & Meira" is another award-winner coming out this month. The Best Canadian Feature from the 2014 Toronto International Film Festival aims to make its mark with the story of an unconventional and radical love affair, one that reaches across racial and religious lines. "About Elly" also confronts cultural biases with its depiction of Iran's upper middle class.
"Effie Gray" tackles the sexual politics of the Victorian era, and with a screenplay from Emma Thompson, it's sure to be intriguing as well as quick-witted. Speaking of intriguing, "The Age of Adaline" follows a woman who mysteriously stopped aging eight decades ago. Blake Lively centers the film as Adaline, struggling with love and trust and all the other things that might follow when one lives seemingly forever.
Courteney Cox makes her big-screen directorial debut (the actress has previously directed episodes of "Cougar Town," which she stars in) with "Just Before I Go," and screenwiter Gren Wells makes hers as well with "The Road Within." Director Mia Hansen-løve ("Goodbye First Love") directs Greta Gerwig in "Eden," a look at the rise of French electronic music in the 90s.
The month will also see the release of a few very different documentaries. "The Hand That Feeds" focuses on undocumented immigrants struggling to form an independent union, while "Iris" follows 93-year-old Iris Apfel, a flamboyant New York City fashion icon. "Antarctic Edge: 70° South" is focused on the changing climate of the Antarctic's Peninsula and was made with the collaboration of Rutgers University students and scientists.
We'll also see comedic projects featuring Mary Elizabeth Winstead ("Alex of Venice") and Rose Byrne ("Adult Beginners"). Nia Vardalos returns to the screen with a role in "Helicopter Mom," which promises an outrageous performance from the "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" star. "Sweet Lorraine" and "Farah Goes Bang" round out the women-centric comedy offerings of the month.
Here are all the women-centric films opening in the month of April. All descriptions are from press materials unless otherwise noted.
April 1
Woman in Gold
"Woman in Gold" is the remarkable true story of one woman’s journey to reclaim her heritage and seek justice for what happened to her family. Sixty years after she fled Vienna during World War II, an elderly Jewish woman, Maria Altmann (Helen Mirren), starts her journey to retrieve family possessions seized by the Nazis, among them Klimt’s famous painting "Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I." Together with her inexperienced but plucky young lawyer Randy Schoenberg (Ryan Reynolds), she embarks upon a major battle, which takes them all the way to the heart of the Austrian establishment and the U.S. Supreme Court, and forces her to confront difficult truths about the past along the way.
April 3
The Hand That Feeds (doc) - Co-Written and Co-Directed by Rachel Lears
At a popular bakery café, residents of New York’s Upper East Side get bagels and coffee served with a smile 24 hours a day. But behind the scenes, undocumented immigrant workers face sub-legal wages, dangerous machinery, and abusive managers who will fire them for calling in sick. Mild-mannered sandwich maker Mahoma López has never been interested in politics, but in January 2012 he convinces a small group of his co-workers to fight back.
Risking deportation and the loss of their livelihood, the workers team up with a diverse crew of innovative young organizers and take the unusual step of forming their own independent union, launching themselves on a journey that will test the limits of their resolve. In one roller-coaster year, they must overcome a shocking betrayal and a two-month lockout. Lawyers will battle in back rooms, Occupy Wall Street protesters will take over the restaurant, and a picket line will divide the neighborhood. If they can win a contract, it will set a historic precedent for low-wage workers across the country. But whatever happens, Mahoma and his coworkers will never be exploited again.
Effie Gray - Written by Emma Thompson
In her original screenplay “Effie Gray,” Emma Thompson takes a bold look at the real-life story of the Effie Gray-John Ruskin marriage, while courageously exposing what was truly hiding behind the veil of their public life. Set in a time when neither divorce nor gay marriage were an option, “Effie Gray” is the story of a young woman (Dakota Fanning) coming of age and finding her own voice in a world where women were expected to be seen but not heard. “Effie Gray” explores the roots of sexual intolerance, which continue to have a stronghold today, while shedding light on the marital politics of the Victorian era.
April 8
About Elly
As with director Asghar Farhadi's better-known films, “About Elly” concerns the affluent, well-educated, cultured, and only marginally religious members of Iran's upper-middle class. Elly (Taraneh Alidoosti), a pretty young woman invited as a possible romantic interest for one of the newly single men among this group, disappears suddenly without a trace. The festive atmosphere quickly turns frantic as friends accuse one another of responsibility. Plot-wise, Farhadi's drama has been compared to “L’Avventura”; but the film is less concerned with Elly's disappearance per se than with exploring the intricate mechanisms of deceit, brutality, and betrayal which come into play when ordinary circumstances take a tragic turn.
April 10
Clouds of Sils Maria
At the peak of her international career, Maria Enders (Juliette Binoche) is asked to perform in a revival of the play that made her famous twenty years ago. But back then, she played the role of Sigrid, an alluring young girl who disarms and eventually drives her boss Helena to suicide. Now she is being asked to step into the other role, that of the older Helena. She departs with her assistant (Kristen Stewart) to rehearse in Sils Maria; a remote region of the Alps. A young Hollywood starlet with a penchant for scandal (Chloë Grace Moretz) is to take on the role of Sigrid, and Maria finds herself on the other side of the mirror, face to face with an ambiguously charming woman who is, in essence, an unsettling reflection of herself.
The Sisterhood of Night - Directed by Caryn Waechter and Written by Marilyn Fu
Based on the short story by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Steven Millhauser, "The Sisterhood of Night" is a story of friendship and loyalty set against the backdrop of a modern-day Salem witch trial. Shot on location in Kingston, NY, the film chronicles a group of girls who have slipped out of the world of social media into a mysterious world deep in the woods. The tale begins when Emily Parris (Kara Hayward) exposes a secret society of teenage girls. Accusing them of committing sexually deviant acts, Emily’s allegations throw their small American town into the national media spotlight. The mystery deepens when each of the accused takes a vow of silence. What follows is a chronicle of three girls’ unique and provocative alternative to the loneliness of adolescence, revealing the tragedy and humor of teenage years changed forever by the Internet age.
Farah Goes Bang - Directed by Meera Menon, Written by Laura Goode and Meera Menon
A road-trip comedy that centers on Farah (Nikohl Boosheri), a twenty-something woman who tries to lose her virginity while campaigning for John Kerry in 2004. Farah and her friends K.J. and Roopa follow the campaign trail to Ohio, seizing this charged moment in their lives and the life of their country.
April 17
Closer to the Moon
Set in 1959 Bucharest, “Closer to the Moon” opens as the crime is hatched and executed by old friends from the WWII Jewish Resistance, who seek to recapture the excitement of their glory days. Led by a chief police inspector (Mark Strong) and a political academic (Vera Farmiga), the quintet also includes a respected history professor (Christian McKay), a hotshot reporter (Joe Armstrong), and a space scientist (Tim Plester). Their postwar influence fading amid an ongoing Stalinist purge of Jews and intellectuals, the disillusioned gang retaliates by hijacking a van delivering cash to the Romanian National Bank, staging the robbery to make it look like a movie shoot. Caught and convicted in a kangaroo court, the culprits, with help from an eyewitness (Harry Lloyd) to the robbery, are forced to reenact their crime in a devious anti-Semitic propaganda film.
Felix & Meira
Winner of Best Canadian Feature at the 2014 Toronto International Film Festival, “Félix & Meira” is the story of an unconventional romance between two people living vastly different realities mere blocks away from one another. Each lost in their everyday lives, Meira (Hadas Yaron), a Hasidic Jewish wife and mother, and Félix (Martin Dubreuil), a Secular loner mourning the recent death of his estranged father, unexpectedly meet in a local bakery in Montreal's Mile End district. What starts as an innocent friendship becomes more serious as the two wayward strangers find comfort in one another. As Felix opens Meira's eyes to the world outside of her tight-knit Orthodox community, her desire for change becomes harder for her to ignore, ultimately forcing her to choose: remain in the life that she knows or give it all up to be with Félix.
Alex of Venice - Co-Written by Jessica Goldberg and Katie Nehra
In “Alex of Venice,” workaholic environmental attorney Alex Vedder (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) is forced to reinvent herself after her husband (Chris Messina) suddenly leaves the family. Dealing with an aging father (Don Johnson) who still aspires to succeed as an actor, an eccentric sister (Katie Nehra), and an extremely shy son (Skylar Gaertner), Alex is bombarded with everything from the mundane to hilariously catastrophic events without a shoulder to lean on. Realizing she will thrive with or without her husband, Alex discovers her hidden vulnerability as well as her inner strength as she fights to keep her family intact in the midst of the most demanding and important case of her career.
Cas & Dylan - Written by Jessie Gabe
When 61-year-old self-proclaimed loner and terminally ill Dr. Cas Pepper (Richard Dreyfuss) reluctantly agrees to give 22-year-old social misfit Dyland Morgan (Tatiana Maslany) a very short lift home, the last thing he anticipates is that he will strike her angry boyfriend with his car, find himself on the lam, and ultimately drive across the country with an aspiring young writer determined to help him overcome his own bizarre case of suicide-note writer's block. But as fate would have it, that is exactly what happens. Suddenly Cas's solo one-way trip out West isn't so solo. With Dylan at his side, the two take off on an adventure that will open their eyes to some of life's lessons -- both big and small.
Antarctic Edge: 70° South (doc) - Directed by Dena Seidel
Dena Seidel’s documentary not only offers rare, beautifully shot footage of West Antarctic Pennisula's rapidly changing environment, studying the connections that reveal the concrete impact of climate change; it is also a one-of-a-kind collaboration between the Rutgers University Film Bureau and the Rutgers Institute for Marine and Coastal Sciences and contains interviews and insights from some of the world’s leading ocean researchers. It is a fascinating look at their life’s work trying to understand how to maintain our planet.
The Road Within - Written and Directed by Gren Wells
Vincent (Robert Sheehan), a young man with Tourette's syndrome, faces drastic changes after his mother dies. Because his politician father is too ashamed of the disorder to have Vincent accompany him on the campaign, Vincent is shuttled off to an unconventional clinic. There he finds unexpected community with an obsessive-compulsive roommate and an anorexic young woman, and romance eventually -- and uneasily -- follows.
One of Variety's "10 Directors to Watch," screenwriter Gren Wells makes her directorial debut with this ambitious yet light-hearted coming-of-age tale about the potent medicine we all carry within ourselves. The film is packed with a talented ensemble, from emerging talents Zoë Kravitz, Dev Patel, and Sheehan to beloved veterans Kyra Sedgwick and Robert Patrick.
April 23
Sweet Lorraine
The double life of a Methodist minister's wife (played by Tatum O'Neal) catches up to her, as her husband campaigns for mayor in a small New Jersey town.
April 24
Just Before I Go - Directed by Courtney Cox
Ted Morgan (Seann William Scott) has been treading water for most of his life. After his wife leaves him, Ted realizes he has nothing left to live for. Summoning the courage for one last act, Ted decides to go home and face the people he feels are responsible for creating the shell of a person he has become. But life is tricky. The more determined Ted is to confront his demons, to get closure, and to withdraw from his family, the more Ted is yanked into the chaos of their lives. So, when Ted Morgan decides to kill himself, he finds a reason to live.
The Age of Adaline
After miraculously remaining 29-years-old for almost eight decades, Adaline Bowman (Blake Lively) has lived a solitary existence, never allowing herself to get close to anyone who might reveal her secret. But a chance encounter with charismatic philanthropist Ellis Jones (Michiel Huisman) reignites her passion for life and romance. When a weekend with his parents (Harrison Ford and Kathy Baker) threatens to uncover the truth, Adaline makes a decision that will change her life forever.
Adult Beginners - Co-Written by Liz Flahive (Simultaneously releasing to VOD)
A young, hipster entrepreneur (Nick Kroll) crashes and burns on the eve of his company’s big launch. With his entire life in disarray, he leaves Manhattan to move in with his estranged pregnant sister (Rose Byrne), brother-in-law (Bobby Cannavale), and three-year-old nephew in the suburbs – only to become their manny. Faced with real responsibility, he may finally have to grow up – but not without some bad behavior first.
Eden - Directed and Co-Written by Mia Hansen-løve
The film follows the life of a French DJ who's credited with inventing "French house" or the "French touch," a type of French electronic music that became popular in the 1990s. Greta Gerwig costars. (IMDb)
24 Days - Co-Written by Emilie Frèche
January 20, 2006: After dinner with his family, Ilan Halimi (Syrus Shahidi) gets a call from a beautiful girl who had approached him at work and makes plans to meet her for coffee. Ilan didn't suspect a thing. He was 23 and had his whole life ahead of him. The next time Ilan's family heard from him was through a cryptic online message from kidnappers demanding a ransom in exchange for their son's life. (IMDb)
Helicopter Mom - Directed by Salomé Breziner
An overbearing mom (Nia Vardalos) decides that college would be more affordable if her son were to win an Lgbt scholarship, so she outs him to his entire high school. However, he might not be gay. (Rotten Tomatoes)
April 29
Iris (doc) (Opening in New York City)
"Iris" pairs legendary 87-year-old documentarian Albert Maysles with Iris Apfel, the quick-witted, flamboyantly dressed 93-year-old style maven who has had an outsized presence on the New York fashion scene for decades. More than a fashion film, the documentary is a story about creativity and how, even in Iris' dotage, a soaring free spirit continues to inspire. "Iris" portrays a singular woman whose enthusiasm for fashion, art, and people are life's sustenance and reminds us that dressing, and indeed life, is nothing but an experiment. Despite the abundance of glamour in her current life, she continues to embrace the values and work ethic established during a middle-class Queens upbringing during the Great Depression.
April 30
Marie’s Story
At the turn of the 19th century, a humble artisan and his wife have a daughter, Marie (Ariana Rivoire), who is born deaf and blind and unable to communicate with the world around her. Desperate to find a connection to their daughter and avoid sending her to an asylum, the Heurtins send fourteen-year-old Marie to the Larnay Institute in central France, where an order of Catholic nuns manage a school for deaf girls. There, the idealistic Sister Marguerite (Isabelle Carré) sees in Marie a unique potential, and despite her Mother Superior's (Brigitte Catillon) skepticism, vows to bring the wild young thing out of the darkness into which she was born. Based on true events, “Marie's Story” recounts the courageous journey of a young nun and the lives she would change forever, confronting failures and discouragement with joyous faith and love. (Film Movement)...
The month starts off with "Woman in Gold," starring Helen Mirren as a Jewish woman on a journey to recover her family's heirlooms, which was stolen by the Nazis. It's based on a true story, and Mirren roots the film with her powerful presence. "Closer to the Moon" is another WWII-era drama set for an April release, this one based on the crime capers of a group of Jewish resistance fighters a few years after the end of the war. "Marie's Story" is another period piece, centering around the efforts of a 19th-century nun to help a girl born blind and deaf.
There are a few more women-focused dramas being released in April, including the much-buzzed "Clouds of Sils Maria," which garnered Kristen Stewart the prestigious Cesar Award for supporting actress. Stewart has made waves for being the first American actress to win the French award, and the film looks to capitalize on that with its American release. “Félix & Meira" is another award-winner coming out this month. The Best Canadian Feature from the 2014 Toronto International Film Festival aims to make its mark with the story of an unconventional and radical love affair, one that reaches across racial and religious lines. "About Elly" also confronts cultural biases with its depiction of Iran's upper middle class.
"Effie Gray" tackles the sexual politics of the Victorian era, and with a screenplay from Emma Thompson, it's sure to be intriguing as well as quick-witted. Speaking of intriguing, "The Age of Adaline" follows a woman who mysteriously stopped aging eight decades ago. Blake Lively centers the film as Adaline, struggling with love and trust and all the other things that might follow when one lives seemingly forever.
Courteney Cox makes her big-screen directorial debut (the actress has previously directed episodes of "Cougar Town," which she stars in) with "Just Before I Go," and screenwiter Gren Wells makes hers as well with "The Road Within." Director Mia Hansen-løve ("Goodbye First Love") directs Greta Gerwig in "Eden," a look at the rise of French electronic music in the 90s.
The month will also see the release of a few very different documentaries. "The Hand That Feeds" focuses on undocumented immigrants struggling to form an independent union, while "Iris" follows 93-year-old Iris Apfel, a flamboyant New York City fashion icon. "Antarctic Edge: 70° South" is focused on the changing climate of the Antarctic's Peninsula and was made with the collaboration of Rutgers University students and scientists.
We'll also see comedic projects featuring Mary Elizabeth Winstead ("Alex of Venice") and Rose Byrne ("Adult Beginners"). Nia Vardalos returns to the screen with a role in "Helicopter Mom," which promises an outrageous performance from the "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" star. "Sweet Lorraine" and "Farah Goes Bang" round out the women-centric comedy offerings of the month.
Here are all the women-centric films opening in the month of April. All descriptions are from press materials unless otherwise noted.
April 1
Woman in Gold
"Woman in Gold" is the remarkable true story of one woman’s journey to reclaim her heritage and seek justice for what happened to her family. Sixty years after she fled Vienna during World War II, an elderly Jewish woman, Maria Altmann (Helen Mirren), starts her journey to retrieve family possessions seized by the Nazis, among them Klimt’s famous painting "Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I." Together with her inexperienced but plucky young lawyer Randy Schoenberg (Ryan Reynolds), she embarks upon a major battle, which takes them all the way to the heart of the Austrian establishment and the U.S. Supreme Court, and forces her to confront difficult truths about the past along the way.
April 3
The Hand That Feeds (doc) - Co-Written and Co-Directed by Rachel Lears
At a popular bakery café, residents of New York’s Upper East Side get bagels and coffee served with a smile 24 hours a day. But behind the scenes, undocumented immigrant workers face sub-legal wages, dangerous machinery, and abusive managers who will fire them for calling in sick. Mild-mannered sandwich maker Mahoma López has never been interested in politics, but in January 2012 he convinces a small group of his co-workers to fight back.
Risking deportation and the loss of their livelihood, the workers team up with a diverse crew of innovative young organizers and take the unusual step of forming their own independent union, launching themselves on a journey that will test the limits of their resolve. In one roller-coaster year, they must overcome a shocking betrayal and a two-month lockout. Lawyers will battle in back rooms, Occupy Wall Street protesters will take over the restaurant, and a picket line will divide the neighborhood. If they can win a contract, it will set a historic precedent for low-wage workers across the country. But whatever happens, Mahoma and his coworkers will never be exploited again.
Effie Gray - Written by Emma Thompson
In her original screenplay “Effie Gray,” Emma Thompson takes a bold look at the real-life story of the Effie Gray-John Ruskin marriage, while courageously exposing what was truly hiding behind the veil of their public life. Set in a time when neither divorce nor gay marriage were an option, “Effie Gray” is the story of a young woman (Dakota Fanning) coming of age and finding her own voice in a world where women were expected to be seen but not heard. “Effie Gray” explores the roots of sexual intolerance, which continue to have a stronghold today, while shedding light on the marital politics of the Victorian era.
April 8
About Elly
As with director Asghar Farhadi's better-known films, “About Elly” concerns the affluent, well-educated, cultured, and only marginally religious members of Iran's upper-middle class. Elly (Taraneh Alidoosti), a pretty young woman invited as a possible romantic interest for one of the newly single men among this group, disappears suddenly without a trace. The festive atmosphere quickly turns frantic as friends accuse one another of responsibility. Plot-wise, Farhadi's drama has been compared to “L’Avventura”; but the film is less concerned with Elly's disappearance per se than with exploring the intricate mechanisms of deceit, brutality, and betrayal which come into play when ordinary circumstances take a tragic turn.
April 10
Clouds of Sils Maria
At the peak of her international career, Maria Enders (Juliette Binoche) is asked to perform in a revival of the play that made her famous twenty years ago. But back then, she played the role of Sigrid, an alluring young girl who disarms and eventually drives her boss Helena to suicide. Now she is being asked to step into the other role, that of the older Helena. She departs with her assistant (Kristen Stewart) to rehearse in Sils Maria; a remote region of the Alps. A young Hollywood starlet with a penchant for scandal (Chloë Grace Moretz) is to take on the role of Sigrid, and Maria finds herself on the other side of the mirror, face to face with an ambiguously charming woman who is, in essence, an unsettling reflection of herself.
The Sisterhood of Night - Directed by Caryn Waechter and Written by Marilyn Fu
Based on the short story by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Steven Millhauser, "The Sisterhood of Night" is a story of friendship and loyalty set against the backdrop of a modern-day Salem witch trial. Shot on location in Kingston, NY, the film chronicles a group of girls who have slipped out of the world of social media into a mysterious world deep in the woods. The tale begins when Emily Parris (Kara Hayward) exposes a secret society of teenage girls. Accusing them of committing sexually deviant acts, Emily’s allegations throw their small American town into the national media spotlight. The mystery deepens when each of the accused takes a vow of silence. What follows is a chronicle of three girls’ unique and provocative alternative to the loneliness of adolescence, revealing the tragedy and humor of teenage years changed forever by the Internet age.
Farah Goes Bang - Directed by Meera Menon, Written by Laura Goode and Meera Menon
A road-trip comedy that centers on Farah (Nikohl Boosheri), a twenty-something woman who tries to lose her virginity while campaigning for John Kerry in 2004. Farah and her friends K.J. and Roopa follow the campaign trail to Ohio, seizing this charged moment in their lives and the life of their country.
April 17
Closer to the Moon
Set in 1959 Bucharest, “Closer to the Moon” opens as the crime is hatched and executed by old friends from the WWII Jewish Resistance, who seek to recapture the excitement of their glory days. Led by a chief police inspector (Mark Strong) and a political academic (Vera Farmiga), the quintet also includes a respected history professor (Christian McKay), a hotshot reporter (Joe Armstrong), and a space scientist (Tim Plester). Their postwar influence fading amid an ongoing Stalinist purge of Jews and intellectuals, the disillusioned gang retaliates by hijacking a van delivering cash to the Romanian National Bank, staging the robbery to make it look like a movie shoot. Caught and convicted in a kangaroo court, the culprits, with help from an eyewitness (Harry Lloyd) to the robbery, are forced to reenact their crime in a devious anti-Semitic propaganda film.
Felix & Meira
Winner of Best Canadian Feature at the 2014 Toronto International Film Festival, “Félix & Meira” is the story of an unconventional romance between two people living vastly different realities mere blocks away from one another. Each lost in their everyday lives, Meira (Hadas Yaron), a Hasidic Jewish wife and mother, and Félix (Martin Dubreuil), a Secular loner mourning the recent death of his estranged father, unexpectedly meet in a local bakery in Montreal's Mile End district. What starts as an innocent friendship becomes more serious as the two wayward strangers find comfort in one another. As Felix opens Meira's eyes to the world outside of her tight-knit Orthodox community, her desire for change becomes harder for her to ignore, ultimately forcing her to choose: remain in the life that she knows or give it all up to be with Félix.
Alex of Venice - Co-Written by Jessica Goldberg and Katie Nehra
In “Alex of Venice,” workaholic environmental attorney Alex Vedder (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) is forced to reinvent herself after her husband (Chris Messina) suddenly leaves the family. Dealing with an aging father (Don Johnson) who still aspires to succeed as an actor, an eccentric sister (Katie Nehra), and an extremely shy son (Skylar Gaertner), Alex is bombarded with everything from the mundane to hilariously catastrophic events without a shoulder to lean on. Realizing she will thrive with or without her husband, Alex discovers her hidden vulnerability as well as her inner strength as she fights to keep her family intact in the midst of the most demanding and important case of her career.
Cas & Dylan - Written by Jessie Gabe
When 61-year-old self-proclaimed loner and terminally ill Dr. Cas Pepper (Richard Dreyfuss) reluctantly agrees to give 22-year-old social misfit Dyland Morgan (Tatiana Maslany) a very short lift home, the last thing he anticipates is that he will strike her angry boyfriend with his car, find himself on the lam, and ultimately drive across the country with an aspiring young writer determined to help him overcome his own bizarre case of suicide-note writer's block. But as fate would have it, that is exactly what happens. Suddenly Cas's solo one-way trip out West isn't so solo. With Dylan at his side, the two take off on an adventure that will open their eyes to some of life's lessons -- both big and small.
Antarctic Edge: 70° South (doc) - Directed by Dena Seidel
Dena Seidel’s documentary not only offers rare, beautifully shot footage of West Antarctic Pennisula's rapidly changing environment, studying the connections that reveal the concrete impact of climate change; it is also a one-of-a-kind collaboration between the Rutgers University Film Bureau and the Rutgers Institute for Marine and Coastal Sciences and contains interviews and insights from some of the world’s leading ocean researchers. It is a fascinating look at their life’s work trying to understand how to maintain our planet.
The Road Within - Written and Directed by Gren Wells
Vincent (Robert Sheehan), a young man with Tourette's syndrome, faces drastic changes after his mother dies. Because his politician father is too ashamed of the disorder to have Vincent accompany him on the campaign, Vincent is shuttled off to an unconventional clinic. There he finds unexpected community with an obsessive-compulsive roommate and an anorexic young woman, and romance eventually -- and uneasily -- follows.
One of Variety's "10 Directors to Watch," screenwriter Gren Wells makes her directorial debut with this ambitious yet light-hearted coming-of-age tale about the potent medicine we all carry within ourselves. The film is packed with a talented ensemble, from emerging talents Zoë Kravitz, Dev Patel, and Sheehan to beloved veterans Kyra Sedgwick and Robert Patrick.
April 23
Sweet Lorraine
The double life of a Methodist minister's wife (played by Tatum O'Neal) catches up to her, as her husband campaigns for mayor in a small New Jersey town.
April 24
Just Before I Go - Directed by Courtney Cox
Ted Morgan (Seann William Scott) has been treading water for most of his life. After his wife leaves him, Ted realizes he has nothing left to live for. Summoning the courage for one last act, Ted decides to go home and face the people he feels are responsible for creating the shell of a person he has become. But life is tricky. The more determined Ted is to confront his demons, to get closure, and to withdraw from his family, the more Ted is yanked into the chaos of their lives. So, when Ted Morgan decides to kill himself, he finds a reason to live.
The Age of Adaline
After miraculously remaining 29-years-old for almost eight decades, Adaline Bowman (Blake Lively) has lived a solitary existence, never allowing herself to get close to anyone who might reveal her secret. But a chance encounter with charismatic philanthropist Ellis Jones (Michiel Huisman) reignites her passion for life and romance. When a weekend with his parents (Harrison Ford and Kathy Baker) threatens to uncover the truth, Adaline makes a decision that will change her life forever.
Adult Beginners - Co-Written by Liz Flahive (Simultaneously releasing to VOD)
A young, hipster entrepreneur (Nick Kroll) crashes and burns on the eve of his company’s big launch. With his entire life in disarray, he leaves Manhattan to move in with his estranged pregnant sister (Rose Byrne), brother-in-law (Bobby Cannavale), and three-year-old nephew in the suburbs – only to become their manny. Faced with real responsibility, he may finally have to grow up – but not without some bad behavior first.
Eden - Directed and Co-Written by Mia Hansen-løve
The film follows the life of a French DJ who's credited with inventing "French house" or the "French touch," a type of French electronic music that became popular in the 1990s. Greta Gerwig costars. (IMDb)
24 Days - Co-Written by Emilie Frèche
January 20, 2006: After dinner with his family, Ilan Halimi (Syrus Shahidi) gets a call from a beautiful girl who had approached him at work and makes plans to meet her for coffee. Ilan didn't suspect a thing. He was 23 and had his whole life ahead of him. The next time Ilan's family heard from him was through a cryptic online message from kidnappers demanding a ransom in exchange for their son's life. (IMDb)
Helicopter Mom - Directed by Salomé Breziner
An overbearing mom (Nia Vardalos) decides that college would be more affordable if her son were to win an Lgbt scholarship, so she outs him to his entire high school. However, he might not be gay. (Rotten Tomatoes)
April 29
Iris (doc) (Opening in New York City)
"Iris" pairs legendary 87-year-old documentarian Albert Maysles with Iris Apfel, the quick-witted, flamboyantly dressed 93-year-old style maven who has had an outsized presence on the New York fashion scene for decades. More than a fashion film, the documentary is a story about creativity and how, even in Iris' dotage, a soaring free spirit continues to inspire. "Iris" portrays a singular woman whose enthusiasm for fashion, art, and people are life's sustenance and reminds us that dressing, and indeed life, is nothing but an experiment. Despite the abundance of glamour in her current life, she continues to embrace the values and work ethic established during a middle-class Queens upbringing during the Great Depression.
April 30
Marie’s Story
At the turn of the 19th century, a humble artisan and his wife have a daughter, Marie (Ariana Rivoire), who is born deaf and blind and unable to communicate with the world around her. Desperate to find a connection to their daughter and avoid sending her to an asylum, the Heurtins send fourteen-year-old Marie to the Larnay Institute in central France, where an order of Catholic nuns manage a school for deaf girls. There, the idealistic Sister Marguerite (Isabelle Carré) sees in Marie a unique potential, and despite her Mother Superior's (Brigitte Catillon) skepticism, vows to bring the wild young thing out of the darkness into which she was born. Based on true events, “Marie's Story” recounts the courageous journey of a young nun and the lives she would change forever, confronting failures and discouragement with joyous faith and love. (Film Movement)...
- 4/1/2015
- by Tory Kamen and Becca Rose
- Sydney's Buzz
Tuesday night's Mindy Project finale, with its grand romantic gesture, left us wondering if this could perhaps be the end. (Say it ain't so!) Not only that, but Mindy stars are already off doing other things — take Chris Messina, who is making his directorial debut with Alex of Venice (in theaters and VOD on April 17), a sweet indie drama that stars Mary Elizabeth Winstead as a young working mom whose family is thrown for a loop after her husband (played by Messina) decides to leave. We spoke to Messina about doing triple duty, being a first-time director, and the future of The Mindy Project. You’re out in L.A., right?I’m in L.A., where it’s very sunny. Sorry. It’s always nice there. While I was watching Alex of Venice, I kept dreaming of Venice, California. It’s so kooky and great. Yeah, it’s a great place.
- 3/25/2015
- by Lindsey Weber
- Vulture
Mary Elizabeth Winstead starts her life for the second time in a trailer for Alex of Venice.
The drama film is directed by The Mindy Project's Chris Messina, who also stars as a stay-at-home dad who leaves his family.
His ex-wife Alex (Winstead) tries to move on with her life and find love again with a new boyfriend (Derek Luke) with the help of her family.
Don Johnson appears as Alex's pot-smoking hippie father, while Glory Daze actress Julianna Guill portrays Alex's wild child sister.
Playwright Jessica Goldberg collaborated on Alex of Venice's screenplay with Messina, Half Nelson actress Katie Nehra and Little Miss Sunshine actor Justin Shilton.
Alex of Venice opens on April 17 in the Us.
The drama film is directed by The Mindy Project's Chris Messina, who also stars as a stay-at-home dad who leaves his family.
His ex-wife Alex (Winstead) tries to move on with her life and find love again with a new boyfriend (Derek Luke) with the help of her family.
Don Johnson appears as Alex's pot-smoking hippie father, while Glory Daze actress Julianna Guill portrays Alex's wild child sister.
Playwright Jessica Goldberg collaborated on Alex of Venice's screenplay with Messina, Half Nelson actress Katie Nehra and Little Miss Sunshine actor Justin Shilton.
Alex of Venice opens on April 17 in the Us.
- 3/13/2015
- Digital Spy
Is it me or is Mary Elizabeth Winstead not getting the attention she deserves from her work?
Winstead looks to be on top of her game again in the first trailer for Alex of Venice. The film, directed by The Mindy Project star Chris Messina, debuted at the Tribeca Film Festival last year.
The film stars Winstead as Alex, an environmental attorney who finds her workaholic regimen thrown into flux when her husband, George (Messina), asks for a break. For Alex, George has always been the one to take the reins at home. When his unexpected departure dawns as something more permanent, Alex finds herself caught balancing her family’s demands, her aging father, played by Don Johnson, and her ambitious career, which she now struggles to maintain.
Alex of Venice is the directorial debut of Messina, who has always lit up in bit parts in films such as Argo,...
Winstead looks to be on top of her game again in the first trailer for Alex of Venice. The film, directed by The Mindy Project star Chris Messina, debuted at the Tribeca Film Festival last year.
The film stars Winstead as Alex, an environmental attorney who finds her workaholic regimen thrown into flux when her husband, George (Messina), asks for a break. For Alex, George has always been the one to take the reins at home. When his unexpected departure dawns as something more permanent, Alex finds herself caught balancing her family’s demands, her aging father, played by Don Johnson, and her ambitious career, which she now struggles to maintain.
Alex of Venice is the directorial debut of Messina, who has always lit up in bit parts in films such as Argo,...
- 2/24/2015
- by Zach Dennis
- SoundOnSight
A family quietly disintegrates when a stay at home dad (Chris Messina, who also directs) decides to take a break, leaving his workaholic wife (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) to keep her son’s development on track, and deal with her father (Don Johnson) as she tries to move forward with her own personal life. Winstead and Johnson won […]
The post ‘Alex of Venice’ Trailer: Mary Elizabeth Winstead Starts Over appeared first on /Film.
The post ‘Alex of Venice’ Trailer: Mary Elizabeth Winstead Starts Over appeared first on /Film.
- 2/23/2015
- by Russ Fischer
- Slash Film
Chris Messina’s directorial debut, Alex Of Venice, stars Mary Elizabeth Winstead as a young mother faced with a huge life change when her husband steps out on the family. After its premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival, early buzz orbiting the pic has complimented Messina’s confident transition behind the camera.
Pegged as a “fresh slate” style of indie, the film traces the story of Winstead’s go-getter career woman, Alex, who is dumbfounded when her husband (played by Messina) decides he’s had enough of playing house. Co-starring Don Johnson, Derek Luke, Katie Nehra, Jennifer Jason Leigh and Skylar Gaertner, the movie packs a weighty dramatic punch by the looks of this first trailer.
Winstead has surfaced in recent years as a truly stellar character actress. Able to deftly switch between schlocky genre roles (Quentin Tarantino’s Deathproof) and weightier subject matter (Smashed), the actress is on a roll with this latest turn.
Pegged as a “fresh slate” style of indie, the film traces the story of Winstead’s go-getter career woman, Alex, who is dumbfounded when her husband (played by Messina) decides he’s had enough of playing house. Co-starring Don Johnson, Derek Luke, Katie Nehra, Jennifer Jason Leigh and Skylar Gaertner, the movie packs a weighty dramatic punch by the looks of this first trailer.
Winstead has surfaced in recent years as a truly stellar character actress. Able to deftly switch between schlocky genre roles (Quentin Tarantino’s Deathproof) and weightier subject matter (Smashed), the actress is on a roll with this latest turn.
- 2/23/2015
- by Gem Seddon
- We Got This Covered
A family lives in the tranquil bliss of Venice, California, but not all is as it seems. Workaholic mom is keeping the family afloat, organized and on track, but her much more relaxed husband (played by Chris Messina, who also makes his directorial debut here) throws her and the family for a loop when he asks for a break that could turn into something more. Starring Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Don Johnson, Derek Luke, Katie Nehra, and Skylar Gaertner, “Alex Of Venice” is a look at how a mother copes when a family suddenly implodes. Here’s a synopsis that was provided during the Tribeca Film Festival last year where the movie debuted: In the directorial debut from Chris Messina, Mary Elizabeth Winstead gives a heartwarming performance as an environmental attorney who finds her workaholic regimen thrown into flux when her husband, George (Messina), asks for a break. For Alex, George...
- 2/23/2015
- by Edward Davis
- The Playlist
Chris Messina is no stranger to being in front of the camera -- he plays the curmudgable Danny Castellano on Fox’s The Mindy Project and has starred in The Newsroom, Argo, and Julie & Julia -- but for the first time, he’s stepping behind the camera. And it’s been a long time coming.
“I had wanted to direct for a while,” Messina told ETonline. “And I was kind of talking about it for a while. I was scared to do it, and I couldn’t ever find the right project.” Then came Alex of Venice.
The movie stars Mary Elizabeth Winstead (Smashed, The Spectacular Now) as the titular Alex, a workaholic environmental attorney who must learn to balance work life and familial duties to her ailing father and introverted son after her husband (played by Messina) unexpectedly leaves.
Here’s the exclusive debut of the movie’s poster:
Electric City Entertainment
News: Chris Messina gives...
“I had wanted to direct for a while,” Messina told ETonline. “And I was kind of talking about it for a while. I was scared to do it, and I couldn’t ever find the right project.” Then came Alex of Venice.
The movie stars Mary Elizabeth Winstead (Smashed, The Spectacular Now) as the titular Alex, a workaholic environmental attorney who must learn to balance work life and familial duties to her ailing father and introverted son after her husband (played by Messina) unexpectedly leaves.
Here’s the exclusive debut of the movie’s poster:
Electric City Entertainment
News: Chris Messina gives...
- 2/19/2015
- Entertainment Tonight
Chris Messina is no stranger to being in front of the camera -- he plays the curmudgable Danny Castellano on Fox’s The Mindy Project and has starred in The Newsroom, Argo, and Julie & Julia -- but for the first time, he’s stepping behind the camera. And it’s been a long time coming.
“I had wanted to direct for a while,” Messina told ETonline. “And I was kind of talking about it for a while. I was scared to do it, and I couldn’t ever find the right project.” Then he found Alex of Venice.
The movie stars Mary Elizabeth Winstead as the titular Alex, a workaholic environmental attorney who must learn to balance her work life and her familial duties to her ailing father and introverted son after her husband (played by Messina) unexpectedly leaves.
Here’s the exclusive debut of the movie’s poster:
Electric City Entertainment
News: Chris Messina gives us scoop...
“I had wanted to direct for a while,” Messina told ETonline. “And I was kind of talking about it for a while. I was scared to do it, and I couldn’t ever find the right project.” Then he found Alex of Venice.
The movie stars Mary Elizabeth Winstead as the titular Alex, a workaholic environmental attorney who must learn to balance her work life and her familial duties to her ailing father and introverted son after her husband (played by Messina) unexpectedly leaves.
Here’s the exclusive debut of the movie’s poster:
Electric City Entertainment
News: Chris Messina gives us scoop...
- 2/19/2015
- Entertainment Tonight
If you’re worried that The Mindy Project won’t be the same once Mindy and Danny’s baby arrives, well...you’re right.
“The show won’t be the same. It will be different,” Dr. Castellano himself, Chris Messina, told ETonline while discussing the film Alex of Venice, his upcoming directorial debut. (More on that tomorrow.) “But the style of the show won’t change…They’ll still get the laughs.”
In our Q&A, he discussed everything from what he thinks of the surprising pregnancy reveal, to what kind of dad he thinks Danny will be, to the Annette and Dot spin-off we all want to see. And of course we asked if we’ll see Danny bust out his stripper moves again this season.
News: Mindy Kaling opens up about her love life: ‘I don’t need marriage’
ETonline: What was your reaction when you found out they were doing the pregnancy storyline?
Chris Messina...
“The show won’t be the same. It will be different,” Dr. Castellano himself, Chris Messina, told ETonline while discussing the film Alex of Venice, his upcoming directorial debut. (More on that tomorrow.) “But the style of the show won’t change…They’ll still get the laughs.”
In our Q&A, he discussed everything from what he thinks of the surprising pregnancy reveal, to what kind of dad he thinks Danny will be, to the Annette and Dot spin-off we all want to see. And of course we asked if we’ll see Danny bust out his stripper moves again this season.
News: Mindy Kaling opens up about her love life: ‘I don’t need marriage’
ETonline: What was your reaction when you found out they were doing the pregnancy storyline?
Chris Messina...
- 2/18/2015
- Entertainment Tonight
Post-cult trauma is a big thing in movies these days. The topic was explored with chilling preciseness in “Martha Marcy May Marlene,” and the upcoming “Faults” extends that conversation. It’s easy to see why, the ideas of control, identity, and false perceptions are strong fodder for drama and conflicted characters. Mary Elizabeth Winstead ’s career choices have been rather rigorous, knocking down great performances in indies like “Smashed,” “Alex Of Venice,” and now "Faults." The movie tells the story of a washed up expert on mind control who is hired by the desperate parents of a young girl (Winstead) to deprogram their daughter who has fallen in with a cult. However, the gig doesn't unfold as planned, and soon the two are locked in a psychological battle of wills. The movie co-stars Leland Orser, Jon Gries, Beth Grant, Chris Ellis, and Lance Reddick. We debuted the poster yesterday and now the first trailer has.
- 2/5/2015
- by Edward Davis
- The Playlist
I have to admit, I'm a little surprised to see the R rating for Guillermo del Toro's Crimson Peak, not due to del Toro, but because I didn't think a major studio would allow for an R-rated fantasy feature, as PG-13 seemed to be the highest bar they'd allow. Kudos to them for allowing del Toro to do his thing. I'm not even more interested in this pic starring Charlie Hunnam, Mia Wasikowska, Jessica Chastain and Tom Hiddleston. We also have an R-rating for Scott Cooper's Whitey Bulger feature Black Mass starring Johnny Depp and another for Eli Roth's Knock Knock starring Keanu Reeves. Lone Scherfig's The Riot Club hasn't enjoyed top marks on the festival circuit, but IFC will bring it to us later this year as an R-rated feature and just in the nick of time Paramount gets The Spongebob Movie: Sponge Out Of Water a PG-rating.
- 2/3/2015
- by Brad Brevet
- Rope of Silicon
Screen Media Films has acquired U.S. rights to Paul Bettany’s directorial debut “Shelter,” which stars Oscar winner Jennifer Connelly and Anthony Mackie, TheWrap has learned.
Screen Media president Suzanne Blech will give the movie a day-and-date release in theaters and VOD this year before the film becomes available on Netflix.
“Shelter,” which debuted at the 2014 Toronto International Film Festival, was written by Bettany and financed by Daniel Wagner of BiFrost Pictures with an assist from The Bridge Finance Company.
See video: New ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’ Trailer Promises More Battles, Bigger Explosions (Video)
Hannah (Connelly) and Tahir (Mackie...
Screen Media president Suzanne Blech will give the movie a day-and-date release in theaters and VOD this year before the film becomes available on Netflix.
“Shelter,” which debuted at the 2014 Toronto International Film Festival, was written by Bettany and financed by Daniel Wagner of BiFrost Pictures with an assist from The Bridge Finance Company.
See video: New ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’ Trailer Promises More Battles, Bigger Explosions (Video)
Hannah (Connelly) and Tahir (Mackie...
- 1/14/2015
- by Jeff Sneider
- The Wrap
• Joaquim de Almeida (Fast Five) has signed on to play the male lead opposite Sandra Bullock in David Gordon Green’s Our Brand Is Crisis. Zoe Kazan (What If) has also signed on for the political dramedy. In addition to Bullock, they’re joining Scoot McNairy, Billy Bob Thornton, Anthony Mackie, and Ann Dowd. The film is based on Rachel Boynton’s 2005 documentary of the same name, which explored American political campaign strategies in Bolivia. Green’s film stars Bullock as “Calamity” Jane Bodine, a retired American political consultant, with de Almeida as Castillo, the former president of Bolivia who is running for office again.
- 10/11/2014
- by C. Molly Smith
- EW - Inside Movies
Exclusive: Hell On Wheels star Anson Mount has joined the cast of Mr. Right, the hitman action romance starring Anna Kendrick as girl unlucky in love and Sam Rockwell as the assassin she accidentally falls for. Filming begins next week in New Orleans under helmer Paco Cabezas (Neon Flesh), who’s directing from a script by Chronicle‘s Max Landis.
Mount will play Richard Cartigan, a member of a New Jersey crime syndicate who’s jockeying to become head of the family. Also joining Mount alongside Rockwell, Kendrick, Tim Roth, RZA,and James Ransone in the cast are Michael Eklund (Bates Motel, The Call) as the tattooed thug Johnny Howl, and Katie Nehra (Alex Of Venice), who’ll play the bookish roommate to Kendrick’s Martha.
The Amasia Entertainment and Circle of Confusion film is produced by Michael Helfant, Bradley Gallo, Lawrence Mattis, and Rick Jacobs. Stephen Emery and Landis are exec producers.
Mount will play Richard Cartigan, a member of a New Jersey crime syndicate who’s jockeying to become head of the family. Also joining Mount alongside Rockwell, Kendrick, Tim Roth, RZA,and James Ransone in the cast are Michael Eklund (Bates Motel, The Call) as the tattooed thug Johnny Howl, and Katie Nehra (Alex Of Venice), who’ll play the bookish roommate to Kendrick’s Martha.
The Amasia Entertainment and Circle of Confusion film is produced by Michael Helfant, Bradley Gallo, Lawrence Mattis, and Rick Jacobs. Stephen Emery and Landis are exec producers.
- 10/10/2014
- by Jen Yamato
- Deadline
Hollywood Film Festival executive director Jon Fitzgerald announced the strand that rounds out the programme as the festival’s October 16-19 dates draw closer.
Celebrate Hollywood recognises “films shot in Hollywood, or which reference show business.”
The seven titles are: Becoming Bulletproof by Michael Barnett (Us Premiere); Alex Of Venice (pictured) by Chris Messina; Sister by David Lascher; The Dramatics (A Comedy) by Scott Rodgers; The Toy Soldiers by Erik Peter Carlson; Time Lapse by Bradley King and B P Cooper; and You Must Be Joking by Jake Wilson.
Hff will also pay tribute to a filmmaker in the CineCause Spotlight category “who successfully demonstrates the power of film to create change.”
“Celebrate Hollywood provides opportunity to pay homage to the motion picture capital and its impact on entertainment,” said Fitzgerald. “As the festival grows and becomes more relevant in the community, and as incentives continue to be given for filmmaking in Hollywood, we expect...
Celebrate Hollywood recognises “films shot in Hollywood, or which reference show business.”
The seven titles are: Becoming Bulletproof by Michael Barnett (Us Premiere); Alex Of Venice (pictured) by Chris Messina; Sister by David Lascher; The Dramatics (A Comedy) by Scott Rodgers; The Toy Soldiers by Erik Peter Carlson; Time Lapse by Bradley King and B P Cooper; and You Must Be Joking by Jake Wilson.
Hff will also pay tribute to a filmmaker in the CineCause Spotlight category “who successfully demonstrates the power of film to create change.”
“Celebrate Hollywood provides opportunity to pay homage to the motion picture capital and its impact on entertainment,” said Fitzgerald. “As the festival grows and becomes more relevant in the community, and as incentives continue to be given for filmmaking in Hollywood, we expect...
- 9/30/2014
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Jon Fitzgerald and his team at the reboot Hollywood Film Festival with its emphasis on socially conscious films have unveiled the line-up of features by first-time directors.
The roster includes the world premiere of Pancakes by Yasu Shibuya, the previously announced world premiere of My Name Is Water by Justin Arana and the Us premiere of
Also set to screen in Horizons are: Shawn Christensen’s Before I Disappear; Andy Landen’s Sequoia Sister by David Lascher; Time Lapse by B.P. Cooper and Bradley King and Alex Of Venice (pictured) by Chris Messina; The Dramatics by Scott Rodgers; and You Must Be Joking by Jake Wilson.
“New talent continues to be the lifeblood of Hollywood,” said Fitzgerald. “Horizons is a natural fit in providing a platform for emerging directors to be on the industry’s radar.”
The Hollywood Film Festival will run from October 16-19. To see the full line-up visit the official website.
The roster includes the world premiere of Pancakes by Yasu Shibuya, the previously announced world premiere of My Name Is Water by Justin Arana and the Us premiere of
Also set to screen in Horizons are: Shawn Christensen’s Before I Disappear; Andy Landen’s Sequoia Sister by David Lascher; Time Lapse by B.P. Cooper and Bradley King and Alex Of Venice (pictured) by Chris Messina; The Dramatics by Scott Rodgers; and You Must Be Joking by Jake Wilson.
“New talent continues to be the lifeblood of Hollywood,” said Fitzgerald. “Horizons is a natural fit in providing a platform for emerging directors to be on the industry’s radar.”
The Hollywood Film Festival will run from October 16-19. To see the full line-up visit the official website.
- 9/8/2014
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Madame Bovary
Millennium Entertainment is closing a deal to acquire U.S. rights to the Sophie Barthes-directed "Madame Bovary" starring Mia Wasikowska, Paul Giamatti, and Ezra Miller.
The French period film focuses on two years of the life of the beautiful wife of a small-town doctor. She engages in extra marital affairs in an attempt to advance her social status. [Source: Deadline]
Just Before I Go
Starz has secured the North American rights to Courteney Cox's dark comedy feature directorial debut "Just Before I Go". Seann William Scott, Rob Riggle, Garret Dillahunt, Kate Walsh, David Arquette and Olivia Thirlby star.
David Flebotte's script follows a suicidal man who encounters a few surprises as he heads back to his home town and prepares to shuffle off his mortal coil. [Source: Screen]
The Last 5 Years
RADiUS-twc has scored North American rights to the Toronto world premiere film "The Last 5 Years" starring Anna Kendrick and Jeremy Jordan.
Millennium Entertainment is closing a deal to acquire U.S. rights to the Sophie Barthes-directed "Madame Bovary" starring Mia Wasikowska, Paul Giamatti, and Ezra Miller.
The French period film focuses on two years of the life of the beautiful wife of a small-town doctor. She engages in extra marital affairs in an attempt to advance her social status. [Source: Deadline]
Just Before I Go
Starz has secured the North American rights to Courteney Cox's dark comedy feature directorial debut "Just Before I Go". Seann William Scott, Rob Riggle, Garret Dillahunt, Kate Walsh, David Arquette and Olivia Thirlby star.
David Flebotte's script follows a suicidal man who encounters a few surprises as he heads back to his home town and prepares to shuffle off his mortal coil. [Source: Screen]
The Last 5 Years
RADiUS-twc has scored North American rights to the Toronto world premiere film "The Last 5 Years" starring Anna Kendrick and Jeremy Jordan.
- 9/6/2014
- by Garth Franklin
- Dark Horizons
Exclusive: Screen Media Films acquired worldwide rights to Alex Of Venice, the directing debut of Chris Messina. He stars in the film with Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Don Johnson, Derek Luke, and Katie Nehra. According to Screen Media president Suzanne Blach, the pic will be released via multiplatform early next year after playing the Deauville, Napa Valley and Hollywood film festivals.
Winstead plays a workaholic environmental attorney forced to reinvent herself after her husband (Messina) bails. Add an aging father (Johnson) who’s still an aspiring actor, an eccentric sister (Nehra) and an extremely shy son (Sklar Gaertner), the lawyer is up against it but grows through adversity.
Pic’s produced by Electric City Entertainment’s Jamie Patricof and Lynette Howell, executive produced by Samantha Housman and Louise Runge, and co-produced by Crystal Powell. Preferred Content brokered the deal.
Winstead plays a workaholic environmental attorney forced to reinvent herself after her husband (Messina) bails. Add an aging father (Johnson) who’s still an aspiring actor, an eccentric sister (Nehra) and an extremely shy son (Sklar Gaertner), the lawyer is up against it but grows through adversity.
Pic’s produced by Electric City Entertainment’s Jamie Patricof and Lynette Howell, executive produced by Samantha Housman and Louise Runge, and co-produced by Crystal Powell. Preferred Content brokered the deal.
- 9/5/2014
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline
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