As a former teaching colleague was very fond of saying: “You can’t make a pie out of sh*t”.
He was wrong and right. You can technically make all manner of things – up to and including pies – out of sh*t, but in the end, put any amount of sh*t in a pie and what you’ll end up with is a sh*t pie. Ingredients matter, is the point. Just ask Gordon Ramsay, or Minny Jackson from The Help.
The ingredients in the below movies and TV shows are the opposite of shit. They’re grade A, top drawer, high quality constituent parts… I really wish I hadn’t started this ‘shit’ thing. Does anybody else feel a bit queasy. And off pies?
Any road, we salute the actors below for being particularly excellent at their jobs this year, in some similarly excellent films and shows. Top work,...
He was wrong and right. You can technically make all manner of things – up to and including pies – out of sh*t, but in the end, put any amount of sh*t in a pie and what you’ll end up with is a sh*t pie. Ingredients matter, is the point. Just ask Gordon Ramsay, or Minny Jackson from The Help.
The ingredients in the below movies and TV shows are the opposite of shit. They’re grade A, top drawer, high quality constituent parts… I really wish I hadn’t started this ‘shit’ thing. Does anybody else feel a bit queasy. And off pies?
Any road, we salute the actors below for being particularly excellent at their jobs this year, in some similarly excellent films and shows. Top work,...
- 12/28/2023
- by Louisa Mellor
- Den of Geek
A sci-fi comedy by Mel Eslyn and a literary noir by Alice Troughton – who are, respectively, the longtime producer for the Duplass brothers and an award-winning UK television director — debut in limited release this weekend, alongside Adele Lim’s Joy Ride, a Lionsgate wide-release – marking first-time feature film debuts by three women.
(Noting that Chelsea Peretti’s recent Tribeca-premiering film First Time Female Director sort of re-coined that phrase.)
Troughton called it “really reassuring” to see female helmers opening films. In the UK “we are below 20% of the directing force and … directorial women’s roles are dropping, as are roles for people of color. So the diversity is sort of slacking off a bit after a really good push. So it felt really important as somebody who had the privilege to be in the position to go and make a film, to go and do it.
(Noting that Chelsea Peretti’s recent Tribeca-premiering film First Time Female Director sort of re-coined that phrase.)
Troughton called it “really reassuring” to see female helmers opening films. In the UK “we are below 20% of the directing force and … directorial women’s roles are dropping, as are roles for people of color. So the diversity is sort of slacking off a bit after a really good push. So it felt really important as somebody who had the privilege to be in the position to go and make a film, to go and do it.
- 7/7/2023
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
Some new faces are heading to Westeros, as HBO has revealed four cast members joining “House of the Dragon” Season 2. Among the additions are some new power players in the Hightower and Strong houses.
Gayle Rankin will play Alys Rivers, a healer and resident of Harrenhal. In author George R.R. Martin’s novel “Fire & Blood,” on which “House of the Dragon is based, Alys is a witch who has mystical visions and becomes a powerful figure within the Targaryen’s Green faction. Rankin has previously appeared in Netflix’s “Glow,” HBO’s “Perry Mason” and “The Greatest Showman.”
Simon Russell Beale will play Ser Simon Strong, the Castellan of Harrenhal and great-uncle to Lord Larys Strong, played by Matthew Needham in Season 1. Last year, Beale won a Tony for best actor in a play for “The Lehman Trilogy” and has won two BAFTA Awards and three Olivier Awards.
Freddie Fox will play Ser Gwayne Hightower,...
Gayle Rankin will play Alys Rivers, a healer and resident of Harrenhal. In author George R.R. Martin’s novel “Fire & Blood,” on which “House of the Dragon is based, Alys is a witch who has mystical visions and becomes a powerful figure within the Targaryen’s Green faction. Rankin has previously appeared in Netflix’s “Glow,” HBO’s “Perry Mason” and “The Greatest Showman.”
Simon Russell Beale will play Ser Simon Strong, the Castellan of Harrenhal and great-uncle to Lord Larys Strong, played by Matthew Needham in Season 1. Last year, Beale won a Tony for best actor in a play for “The Lehman Trilogy” and has won two BAFTA Awards and three Olivier Awards.
Freddie Fox will play Ser Gwayne Hightower,...
- 4/24/2023
- by Jordan Moreau
- Variety Film + TV
Witness the birth of the "Bridgerton"-verse, dear reader! While the third season of Netflix and Shondaland's steamy collab has not yet descended on the Ton, the streamer has been hard at work at an equally titillating spin-off. There's been a lot of buzz about "Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story," a prequel series that will explore the early days of the titular queen's rule. Queen Charlotte, as portrayed by Golda Rosheuvel, has already stolen the show a thousand times over in "Bridgerton"; her marriage to King George III (James Fleet) has stirred an equal amount of curiosity. It makes sense that their love story would draw enough interest to merit a spin-off — and with a premiere date finally set in stone, Netflix has finally graced us with a trailer. Check it out below!
Watch The Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story Trailer
While Rosheuvel will reprise her role as the wig-loving regent in "Queen Charlotte,...
Watch The Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story Trailer
While Rosheuvel will reprise her role as the wig-loving regent in "Queen Charlotte,...
- 3/23/2023
- by Lyvie Scott
- Slash Film
Even long-lapsed "Doctor Who" fans perked up their ears at the news that Russell T Davies, the showrunner who brought the series back with roaring success in 2005 and helmed it throughout the Christopher Eccleston and David Tennant eras, is returning for season 14. He'll be kicking things off with three 60th anniversary specials, featuring Tennant as (somewhat confusingly) the Fourteenth Doctor and Catherine Tate as former companion Donna Noble, before embarking on a new series of adventures with the Fifteenth Doctor, played by Ncuti Gatwa.
In a new interview with GQ magazine, Davies summarized his reasons for leaving "Doctor Who" in 2010 as "other things to write." Specifically, he wanted to focus on his comedy-drama series "Cucumber," which he'd been working on intermittently during his tenure as showrunner. After handing the reins over to Steven Moffatt, Davies moved to America, where he finished writing "Cucumber" and even received an offer from George Lucas...
In a new interview with GQ magazine, Davies summarized his reasons for leaving "Doctor Who" in 2010 as "other things to write." Specifically, he wanted to focus on his comedy-drama series "Cucumber," which he'd been working on intermittently during his tenure as showrunner. After handing the reins over to Steven Moffatt, Davies moved to America, where he finished writing "Cucumber" and even received an offer from George Lucas...
- 1/30/2023
- by Hannah Shaw-Williams
- Slash Film
Netflix’s Heartstopper is a faithful adaptation of Alice Oseman’s web comics, doubtless thanks to the fact that Oseman herself adapted the series for screen. Fans of the comics – about a burgeoning gay romance between two British secondary school boys – needn’t worry about their favourite moments having been missed on TV. The important scenes from the first two volumes, from the ink explosion to Charlie and Nick’s day in the snow, Harry’s party, the birthday bowling, the disastrous cinema outing, the school concert and more, are up there on screen alongside new moments showcasing popular supporting characters Elle, Tao, Tara and Darcy.
Writer Oseman, director Euros Lyn and the production team have created such a loyal version of the source material that if viewers just watch the Netflix show, they’re not missing out on any vast backstory or details. If however, some viewers are inspired...
Writer Oseman, director Euros Lyn and the production team have created such a loyal version of the source material that if viewers just watch the Netflix show, they’re not missing out on any vast backstory or details. If however, some viewers are inspired...
- 4/22/2022
- by Louisa Mellor
- Den of Geek
Assad Zaman has joined the cast of AMC’s Interview With The Vampire, its series adaptation of Anne Rice’s book. Zaman will play Rashid, joining previously cast Sam Reid as Lestat, Jacob Anderson as Louis and Bailey Bass as Claudia. The seven-episode first season is set to premiere on AMC+ and AMC later this year.
Based on Rice’s novel, Interview With the Vampire follows Louis de Pointe (Anderson), Lestat De Lioncourt (Reid) and Claudia’s (Bass) epic story of love, blood and the perils of immortality.
Rolin Jones, who co-created and served as showrunner for the first season of HBO’s Perry Mason, is the creator, writer and showrunner of Interview with the Vampire. Jones, who has an overall deal with AMC Studios, executive produces alongside Mark Johnson, Christopher Rice and the late Anne Rice. The Many Saints of Newark helmer Alan Taylor will...
Based on Rice’s novel, Interview With the Vampire follows Louis de Pointe (Anderson), Lestat De Lioncourt (Reid) and Claudia’s (Bass) epic story of love, blood and the perils of immortality.
Rolin Jones, who co-created and served as showrunner for the first season of HBO’s Perry Mason, is the creator, writer and showrunner of Interview with the Vampire. Jones, who has an overall deal with AMC Studios, executive produces alongside Mark Johnson, Christopher Rice and the late Anne Rice. The Many Saints of Newark helmer Alan Taylor will...
- 3/4/2022
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Helena Bonham Carter is set to play one of the U.K.’s forgotten soap stars in a new limited series from “Years and Years” and “It’s a Sin” writer Russell T. Davies and producer Nicola Shindler.
“Nolly,” commissioned by commercial broadcaster ITV, looks at the reign and fall from grace of TV legend Noele Gordon, who was a mainstay on long-running ITV soap opera “Crossroads” for 18 years until she was unceremoniously fired.
“What’s extraordinary is that this woman was at the absolute peak of the powers — and this was the biggest show in the country — and she was fired without any kind of explanation, and without any kind of right to respond,” Shindler told Variety.
“In a post-#MeToo world, it’s fantastic to look at the theories and to examine what she [went through] at the time, and the way that she was treated, and how that was acceptable,...
“Nolly,” commissioned by commercial broadcaster ITV, looks at the reign and fall from grace of TV legend Noele Gordon, who was a mainstay on long-running ITV soap opera “Crossroads” for 18 years until she was unceremoniously fired.
“What’s extraordinary is that this woman was at the absolute peak of the powers — and this was the biggest show in the country — and she was fired without any kind of explanation, and without any kind of right to respond,” Shindler told Variety.
“In a post-#MeToo world, it’s fantastic to look at the theories and to examine what she [went through] at the time, and the way that she was treated, and how that was acceptable,...
- 11/23/2021
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Julie Anne Robinson, fresh off an Emmy nomination for directing Bridgerton, has optioned Vanessa Riley’s recently released novel Island Queen to develop for television via her UK-based Longboat Pictures production company, with Bridgerton star Adjoa Andoh attached to executive produce.
Island Queen is based on the true story of Dorothy “Doll” Kirwan Thomas, who was born enslaved, bought her freedom and became one of the wealthiest and most powerful landowners in the early 1800s Caribbean. Longboat Pictures secured the novel at the manuscript stage.
Robinson and Longboat co-founder and former ITV Senior Drama Commissioner Victoria Fea, will executive produce, along with Andoh.
“Vanessa has crafted a groundbreaking and inspiring story that vividly depicts the remarkable life of Dorothy Thomas,” Robinson said. “We are so excited to be bringing it to the screen, and I could not be happier to have this opportunity to continue the collaboration with Adjoa that began on Bridgerton.
Island Queen is based on the true story of Dorothy “Doll” Kirwan Thomas, who was born enslaved, bought her freedom and became one of the wealthiest and most powerful landowners in the early 1800s Caribbean. Longboat Pictures secured the novel at the manuscript stage.
Robinson and Longboat co-founder and former ITV Senior Drama Commissioner Victoria Fea, will executive produce, along with Andoh.
“Vanessa has crafted a groundbreaking and inspiring story that vividly depicts the remarkable life of Dorothy Thomas,” Robinson said. “We are so excited to be bringing it to the screen, and I could not be happier to have this opportunity to continue the collaboration with Adjoa that began on Bridgerton.
- 7/15/2021
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Rebellion, joy, sex, and panic define the days and ways of a group of young gay men in 1980s London in Russell T. Davies’ powerful British miniseries “It’s a Sin,” which debuted to some of the best reviews yet for HBO Max back in February. Gilded by a top-to-toe flawless ensemble, the five-episode drama opens a compassionate window onto lives touched and destroyed by the AIDS epidemic of the period, as its characters try to live freely out of the closet. For Davies, creator of the original groundbreaking British series “Queer as Folk,” “It’s a Sin” was about delicately treading the line between reminding a new generation of the horrors of AIDS, while also taking a nonjudgmental approach to sexual promiscuity and celebrating the joyousness of sexual freedom.
“It was a difficult line to tread but it’s exactly the line I wanted to be on,” Davies told IndieWire from London in a Zoom interview.
“It was a difficult line to tread but it’s exactly the line I wanted to be on,” Davies told IndieWire from London in a Zoom interview.
- 6/14/2021
- by Ryan Lattanzio
- Indiewire
“It’s a Sin,” the British miniseries following a group of gay men and their friends during the onset of the HIV/AIDS crisis in London in the ’80s that’s been a hit on both sides of the pond, is a show that Russell T Davies has been wanting to do for more than 20 years. It didn’t happen until now for a number of reasons, but the creator behind such series as “Queer as Folk,” “Cucumber” and “A Very English Scandal” tells Gold Derby at our Meet the Experts: Showrunners panel (watch above) that he’s happy it took this long.
“I think I was always building towards it. I’m the age of the characters — I was 18 in 1981. That kind of made the research easier, like, ‘Oh, that’s me,'” he says. “It’s funny — I was talking to a psychologist the other day and he had...
“I think I was always building towards it. I’m the age of the characters — I was 18 in 1981. That kind of made the research easier, like, ‘Oh, that’s me,'” he says. “It’s funny — I was talking to a psychologist the other day and he had...
- 5/21/2021
- by Joyce Eng
- Gold Derby
“Red Sonja” has found its star.
Hannah John-Kamen, best known as the villain Ghost in “Ant-Man and the Wasp,” will wield the sword of the comic book fantasy hero in Millennium Films’ long-gestating feature adaptation. Joey Soloway (“Transparent”) is directing the film, from a script by Soloway and Tasha Huo (a writer on Netflix’s upcoming “Tomb Raider” TV series).
“Hannah is a very talented actress who we’ve been following for years and she is Red Sonja,” Soloway said in a statement. “Her range, sensibilities and strength are all qualities we have been looking for and we couldn’t be more excited to embark on this journey together.”
Created in the early 1970s by Roy Thomas and Barry Windsor-Smith for Marvel’s “Conan the Barbarian” comics, Red Sonja quickly became popular enough for her own spinoff series. That is certainly due in part to the character’s formidable fighting skills and forthright personality,...
Hannah John-Kamen, best known as the villain Ghost in “Ant-Man and the Wasp,” will wield the sword of the comic book fantasy hero in Millennium Films’ long-gestating feature adaptation. Joey Soloway (“Transparent”) is directing the film, from a script by Soloway and Tasha Huo (a writer on Netflix’s upcoming “Tomb Raider” TV series).
“Hannah is a very talented actress who we’ve been following for years and she is Red Sonja,” Soloway said in a statement. “Her range, sensibilities and strength are all qualities we have been looking for and we couldn’t be more excited to embark on this journey together.”
Created in the early 1970s by Roy Thomas and Barry Windsor-Smith for Marvel’s “Conan the Barbarian” comics, Red Sonja quickly became popular enough for her own spinoff series. That is certainly due in part to the character’s formidable fighting skills and forthright personality,...
- 5/5/2021
- by Adam B. Vary
- Variety Film + TV
Sky One sci-fi Intergalactic is part conspiracy thriller, part prison break drama, and all space romp. It’s set 150 years in the future, when all of Earth’s nations have united into a single authority known as the Commonworld, and a new element has enabled Earth’s people to escape ecological collapse and colonise other planets via intergalactic travel. Over eight episodes, available to stream as a box-set on Now, we follow a group of female fugitives searching for freedom and uncovering long-buried lies.
The cast has been gathered from far and wide, ranging from relative newcomers to TV like Diany Samba-Bandza to more familiar faces Natasha O’Keeffe, Thomas Turgoose and Eleanor Tomlinson, and established actors Parminder Nagra, Craig Parkinson and Neil Maskell. Here’s who everybody is playing, and the major roles where you may have encountered them before.
Oliver Coopersmith as Echo Nantu-Rose
Coopersmith plays space pirate Echo in Intergalactic,...
The cast has been gathered from far and wide, ranging from relative newcomers to TV like Diany Samba-Bandza to more familiar faces Natasha O’Keeffe, Thomas Turgoose and Eleanor Tomlinson, and established actors Parminder Nagra, Craig Parkinson and Neil Maskell. Here’s who everybody is playing, and the major roles where you may have encountered them before.
Oliver Coopersmith as Echo Nantu-Rose
Coopersmith plays space pirate Echo in Intergalactic,...
- 4/30/2021
- by Louisa Mellor
- Den of Geek
The Bodyguard’s Keeley Hawes and Max Beesley have joined the cast of the dark, disturbing modern-day reimagining of ‘The Midwich Cuckoos’.
The eight-part series is will see Hawes take on the role of gifted psychotherapist Dr Susannah Zellaby, while Beesley plays Local officer Dci Paul Kirby.
Aisling Loftus (A Discovery of Witches), Ukweli Roach (Blindspot), Synnøve Karlsen, Lara Rossi (Robin Hood), Lewis Reeves (I May Destroy You), Rebekah Staton (Raised by Wolves) and Anneika Rose (Line of Duty) will also star.
The series is described as an unnerving fable for our turbulent times, a thrilling, strange and at times horrifying journey into parenthood, which lays bare any parent’s worst fear: that the thing most precious to us – a child – might desire our destruction.
Also in news – Mark Rylance & Simon Pegg to star in Channel 4 series ‘The Undeclared War’
Hawes stated: “I’m absolutely delighted to be working...
The eight-part series is will see Hawes take on the role of gifted psychotherapist Dr Susannah Zellaby, while Beesley plays Local officer Dci Paul Kirby.
Aisling Loftus (A Discovery of Witches), Ukweli Roach (Blindspot), Synnøve Karlsen, Lara Rossi (Robin Hood), Lewis Reeves (I May Destroy You), Rebekah Staton (Raised by Wolves) and Anneika Rose (Line of Duty) will also star.
The series is described as an unnerving fable for our turbulent times, a thrilling, strange and at times horrifying journey into parenthood, which lays bare any parent’s worst fear: that the thing most precious to us – a child – might desire our destruction.
Also in news – Mark Rylance & Simon Pegg to star in Channel 4 series ‘The Undeclared War’
Hawes stated: “I’m absolutely delighted to be working...
- 4/28/2021
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Veteran British drama producer Nicola Shindler has launched a new scripted venture in Quay Street Productions, backed by ITV Studios.
Based in central Manchester, the outfit will focus on working with new writing talent and producing premium drama for the U.K. and international market. Quay Street Productions is named after the famous Manchester street where Granada Television was based and where Shindler spent a part of her early career. International distribution for the company’s slate will be handled by ITV Studios.
Shindler launched her career at Granada as a script editor on Robbie Coltrane drama “Cracker.” After winning her first BAFTA Award as a producer on ITV drama “Hillsborough,” Shindler launched Red in 1998, producing cult hit “Queer As Folk” and BBC’s “Clocking Off.” In 2019, Shindler was awarded an OBE (Order of the British Empire) and took home one of BAFTA’s highest honours, the Special Award, for her services to British Broadcasting.
Based in central Manchester, the outfit will focus on working with new writing talent and producing premium drama for the U.K. and international market. Quay Street Productions is named after the famous Manchester street where Granada Television was based and where Shindler spent a part of her early career. International distribution for the company’s slate will be handled by ITV Studios.
Shindler launched her career at Granada as a script editor on Robbie Coltrane drama “Cracker.” After winning her first BAFTA Award as a producer on ITV drama “Hillsborough,” Shindler launched Red in 1998, producing cult hit “Queer As Folk” and BBC’s “Clocking Off.” In 2019, Shindler was awarded an OBE (Order of the British Empire) and took home one of BAFTA’s highest honours, the Special Award, for her services to British Broadcasting.
- 1/14/2021
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
There’s a simple answer to where you’ve seen most of 2020’s The Haunting of Bly Manor‘s cast before: in 2018’s The Haunting of Hill House. Writer-director Mike Flanagan has a resident company of actors with roles across several of his horror projects, as shown by the significant crossover between these two Netflix series alone. Victoria Pedretti, Oliver Jackson-Cohen, Henry Thomas and Katie Parker are just some of the familiar faces appearing in Flanagan’s new Henry James-inspired spooky series Bly Manor. And here’s what else this bunch is known for on screen.
Henry Thomas – Henry Wingrave
Thomas’ most famous role came at the age of 10 when he played young lead Elliott in Steven Spielberg’s 1982 blockbuster E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (see his terrific audition tape here). In recent years, Thomas has been a frequent collaborator with writer-director Mike Flanagan, playing the young Hugh Crain, father...
Henry Thomas – Henry Wingrave
Thomas’ most famous role came at the age of 10 when he played young lead Elliott in Steven Spielberg’s 1982 blockbuster E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (see his terrific audition tape here). In recent years, Thomas has been a frequent collaborator with writer-director Mike Flanagan, playing the young Hugh Crain, father...
- 10/9/2020
- by Louisa Mellor
- Den of Geek
Shindler launched Red in 1998 and has been Cco of Studiocanal since March.
UK film and TV producder Nicola Shindler is leaving Red Production Company to launch a scripted label with ITV Studios.
The multi Bafta award-winning Shindler will launch the as-yet-unnamed Manchester-based label in 2021 and develop and produce premium drama for the UK and international market.
Shindler founded Red in 1998 and sold a majority stake to Studiocanal in 2013. Earlier this year, she was appointed chief creative officer of Studiocanal, while remaining responsible for Red, having previously acted as chief executive of StudioCanal UK.
She will remain in post at Studiocanal...
UK film and TV producder Nicola Shindler is leaving Red Production Company to launch a scripted label with ITV Studios.
The multi Bafta award-winning Shindler will launch the as-yet-unnamed Manchester-based label in 2021 and develop and produce premium drama for the UK and international market.
Shindler founded Red in 1998 and sold a majority stake to Studiocanal in 2013. Earlier this year, she was appointed chief creative officer of Studiocanal, while remaining responsible for Red, having previously acted as chief executive of StudioCanal UK.
She will remain in post at Studiocanal...
- 9/14/2020
- by John Elmes Broadcast
- ScreenDaily
U.K. super-producer Nicola Shindler is to step down from her production company Red, and launch a scripted label under ITV Studios. Based in Manchester, the new firm will develop and produce premium drama for the U.K. and international market.
Shindler, who most recently served as chief creative officer of London-based Studiocanal U.K., will join ITV Studios and launch her new company in 2021, though it’s still unclear when in the year she will join. International distribution for Shindler’s new label will be handled by ITV Studios.
The new venture effectively brings to a close Shindler’s relationship with Studiocanal, which took a majority stake in Shindler’s production company Red in 2013. She became CEO of Studiocanal U.K. in 2018, but stepped into the chief creative officer role earlier this year after Entertainment One executive Alex Hamilton was made CEO of the U.K. operation.
Variety has...
Shindler, who most recently served as chief creative officer of London-based Studiocanal U.K., will join ITV Studios and launch her new company in 2021, though it’s still unclear when in the year she will join. International distribution for Shindler’s new label will be handled by ITV Studios.
The new venture effectively brings to a close Shindler’s relationship with Studiocanal, which took a majority stake in Shindler’s production company Red in 2013. She became CEO of Studiocanal U.K. in 2018, but stepped into the chief creative officer role earlier this year after Entertainment One executive Alex Hamilton was made CEO of the U.K. operation.
Variety has...
- 9/14/2020
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
HBO Max, in partnership with Britain’s Channel 4, has landed exclusive U.S. streaming rights to upcoming period drama Boys (working title). Principal photography on the five-part series began in October and is scheduled to air in the UK in 2020.
The series, which hails from multi-BAFTA-winning writer-producer Russell T. Davies, charts the emotional journey of five friends during the 1980s, a decade in which everything changed, most notably with the rise of AIDS. Olly Alexander, Nathaniel Curtis, Shaun Dooley, Omari Douglas, Stephen Fry, Neil Patrick Harris, Keeley Hawes, Callum Scott Howells, Tracy Ann Oberman, and Lydia West star in the London-set drama.
“It is our delight to be collaborating with the talented Russell T Davies” said Jeniffer Kim, senior vice president of international originals, HBO Max. “He has crafted a beautiful coming of age story, exploring the excitement of new friendships and self-discovery during a period when there were so many unknowns.
The series, which hails from multi-BAFTA-winning writer-producer Russell T. Davies, charts the emotional journey of five friends during the 1980s, a decade in which everything changed, most notably with the rise of AIDS. Olly Alexander, Nathaniel Curtis, Shaun Dooley, Omari Douglas, Stephen Fry, Neil Patrick Harris, Keeley Hawes, Callum Scott Howells, Tracy Ann Oberman, and Lydia West star in the London-set drama.
“It is our delight to be collaborating with the talented Russell T Davies” said Jeniffer Kim, senior vice president of international originals, HBO Max. “He has crafted a beautiful coming of age story, exploring the excitement of new friendships and self-discovery during a period when there were so many unknowns.
- 12/3/2019
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Neil Patrick Harris is to star in Russell T Davies’ 1980s-set Channel 4 drama Boys.
The How I Met Your Mother star is cast alongside Olly Alexander (Penny Dreadful), who leads the cast, Bodyguard’s Keeley Hawes, Stephen Fry, Tracy Ann Oberman, Shaun Dooley, Omari Douglas, Callum Scott Howells and Lydia West.
The five-part series, which was announced at the Edinburgh International TV Festival in 2018, charts the joy and heartbreak of four friends during a decade in which everything changed including the rise of AIDs.
The Doctor Who writer created the show, which is produced by Studiocanal-owned Red Production Company, which recently made Netflix’s Michael C Hall-fronted thriller Safe.
Boys follows the story of the 1980s, the story of AIDS, and the story of three boys, Ritchie, played by Alexander, Roscoe and Colin, across the decade. The young trio, strangers at first, leave home at 18 and head off...
The How I Met Your Mother star is cast alongside Olly Alexander (Penny Dreadful), who leads the cast, Bodyguard’s Keeley Hawes, Stephen Fry, Tracy Ann Oberman, Shaun Dooley, Omari Douglas, Callum Scott Howells and Lydia West.
The five-part series, which was announced at the Edinburgh International TV Festival in 2018, charts the joy and heartbreak of four friends during a decade in which everything changed including the rise of AIDs.
The Doctor Who writer created the show, which is produced by Studiocanal-owned Red Production Company, which recently made Netflix’s Michael C Hall-fronted thriller Safe.
Boys follows the story of the 1980s, the story of AIDS, and the story of three boys, Ritchie, played by Alexander, Roscoe and Colin, across the decade. The young trio, strangers at first, leave home at 18 and head off...
- 10/3/2019
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
HBO and Emma Thompson have come on board Russell T Davies’ dystopian family drama Years & Years.
The show, which was originally commissioned by BBC One and produced by Happy Valley firm Red Production Company, has set Harry Potter and Love Actually star Thompson in the lead role of Vivienne Rook, an outspoken celebrity turned political figure whose controversial opinions divide the nation. She’s a new breed of politician, an entertainer, a rebel, a trickster, and her rise to power leads us into an unknown future.
Thompson will be joined by Spectre star Rory Kinnear, who plays Stephen Lyons, a financial advisor and the family’s peacekeeper who is married to Celeste, played by Marcella’s T’Nia Miller, an ambitious and opinionated accountant. Quantico’s Russell Tovey plays Daniel Lyons, a hard-working housing officer and Stephen’s brother. Their sister, Edith, played by Paddington 2’s Jessica Hynes, is radical,...
The show, which was originally commissioned by BBC One and produced by Happy Valley firm Red Production Company, has set Harry Potter and Love Actually star Thompson in the lead role of Vivienne Rook, an outspoken celebrity turned political figure whose controversial opinions divide the nation. She’s a new breed of politician, an entertainer, a rebel, a trickster, and her rise to power leads us into an unknown future.
Thompson will be joined by Spectre star Rory Kinnear, who plays Stephen Lyons, a financial advisor and the family’s peacekeeper who is married to Celeste, played by Marcella’s T’Nia Miller, an ambitious and opinionated accountant. Quantico’s Russell Tovey plays Daniel Lyons, a hard-working housing officer and Stephen’s brother. Their sister, Edith, played by Paddington 2’s Jessica Hynes, is radical,...
- 10/25/2018
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
British TV veteran Nicola Shindler (“Happy Valley”) has been appointed CEO of Studiocanal’s U.K. office following the departure of Danny Perkins earlier this year. Shindler currently runs the Studiocanal-owned Red Production Company, which she founded in 1998.
In her new role at Studiocanal UK in London, Shindler will be in charge of setting up and spearheading a new in-house film production arm to develop British films, tapping into the U.K.’s vast talent pool. Studiocanal recently launched an in-house production banner in France and is preparing to bow one in Germany.
Shindler will work closely with Ron Halpern, who will continue to head third-party productions around the world, including in the U.K.
Shindler, who will start her new position on Oct. 1, will report to Didier Lupfer. She will also retain her position as CEO of Red Production Company, where Richard Fee, Michaela Fereday and Jemma Rogers will...
In her new role at Studiocanal UK in London, Shindler will be in charge of setting up and spearheading a new in-house film production arm to develop British films, tapping into the U.K.’s vast talent pool. Studiocanal recently launched an in-house production banner in France and is preparing to bow one in Germany.
Shindler will work closely with Ron Halpern, who will continue to head third-party productions around the world, including in the U.K.
Shindler, who will start her new position on Oct. 1, will report to Didier Lupfer. She will also retain her position as CEO of Red Production Company, where Richard Fee, Michaela Fereday and Jemma Rogers will...
- 9/12/2018
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Channel 4 and Netflix have renewed “The End of the F***ing World” for a second season. The renewal was one of a number of new commissions – including a new drama from Russell T. Davies (“Queer as Folk”) – announced by the British broadcaster ahead of the Edinburgh Television Festival.
BAFTA- and Emmy-nominated “The End of the F***ing World” enjoyed the best launch week ever for an exclusive single series or stunt launch when it debuted on All 4, the broadcaster’s streaming platform, last October. The teen comedy drama, which was created and written by Charlie Covell, based on a graphic novel by Charles S. Forsman, then launched on Netflix in January, finding a new legion of fans.
“We’re so proud that this global success story began at Channel 4 and that a second series is on its way,” said Beth Willis, Channel 4’s head of drama. “Charlie’s witty,...
BAFTA- and Emmy-nominated “The End of the F***ing World” enjoyed the best launch week ever for an exclusive single series or stunt launch when it debuted on All 4, the broadcaster’s streaming platform, last October. The teen comedy drama, which was created and written by Charlie Covell, based on a graphic novel by Charles S. Forsman, then launched on Netflix in January, finding a new legion of fans.
“We’re so proud that this global success story began at Channel 4 and that a second series is on its way,” said Beth Willis, Channel 4’s head of drama. “Charlie’s witty,...
- 8/21/2018
- by Robert Mitchell
- Variety Film + TV
Fresh from the success of A Very English Scandal, writer Russell T Davies is focusing on AIDs in the 1980s for his next British drama project.
The Doctor Who writer (above) has created The Boys, a five-part series for Channel 4. The series is produced by Studiocanal-owned Red Production Company, which recently made Netflix’s Michael C Hall-fronted thriller Safe.
The Boys follows the story of the 1980s, the story of AIDS, and the story of three boys, Ritchie, Roscoe and Colin, across the decade. The young trio, strangers at first, leave home at 18 and head off to London in 1981 with hope and ambition and joy. However, they’re walking straight into a plague that most of the world ignores. Year by year, episode by episode, their lives change, as the mystery of a new virus starts as a rumour, then a threat, then a terror, and then something...
The Doctor Who writer (above) has created The Boys, a five-part series for Channel 4. The series is produced by Studiocanal-owned Red Production Company, which recently made Netflix’s Michael C Hall-fronted thriller Safe.
The Boys follows the story of the 1980s, the story of AIDS, and the story of three boys, Ritchie, Roscoe and Colin, across the decade. The young trio, strangers at first, leave home at 18 and head off to London in 1981 with hope and ambition and joy. However, they’re walking straight into a plague that most of the world ignores. Year by year, episode by episode, their lives change, as the mystery of a new virus starts as a rumour, then a threat, then a terror, and then something...
- 8/21/2018
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Viacom veteran Pamela Post has been promoted to head of scripted programming for MTV, VH1, and Logo. In her new role, Post will lead scripted efforts for the three cable channels as well as the recently launched MTV Studios.
Post will continue to head the channel group’s West Coast office and serve as executive producer on “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” Among the projects she will spearhead in her new role are upcoming revivals of “Aeon Flux” and “Daria,”
“Pam is a passionate and gifted storyteller with exceptional leadership skills,” said channel group general manager Amy Doyle, to whom Post will continue to report. “She continually inspires me and I know she will bring all of her energy and creativity to this expanded role.”
Post returns to the scripted world where she made her mark at Team Todd as VP of production, serving as associate producer for HBO’s “If...
Post will continue to head the channel group’s West Coast office and serve as executive producer on “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” Among the projects she will spearhead in her new role are upcoming revivals of “Aeon Flux” and “Daria,”
“Pam is a passionate and gifted storyteller with exceptional leadership skills,” said channel group general manager Amy Doyle, to whom Post will continue to report. “She continually inspires me and I know she will bring all of her energy and creativity to this expanded role.”
Post returns to the scripted world where she made her mark at Team Todd as VP of production, serving as associate producer for HBO’s “If...
- 7/31/2018
- by Daniel Holloway
- Variety Film + TV
Doctor Who writer and exec producer Russell T Davies is penning a dystopian family drama for BBC One, produced by Happy Valley firm Red Production Company.
The British public broadcaster has ordered Years and Years from the pair, which will follow a busy family from Manchester with their lives converging on one crucial night in 2019. The story will then accelerate into the future, following their lives and loves over the next 15 years as Britain withdraws from Europe, America becomes a lone wolf, China asserts itself, and a new world begins to form. Politician Vivienne Rook then begins her rise to power – that new breed of politician, an entertainer, a rebel, a trickster and a terror – leading the family into an unknown future through which they must navigate.
It is the ninth collaboration between Davies and Red Production Company founder Nicola Shindler following shows such as Queer As Folk and Cucumber.
The British public broadcaster has ordered Years and Years from the pair, which will follow a busy family from Manchester with their lives converging on one crucial night in 2019. The story will then accelerate into the future, following their lives and loves over the next 15 years as Britain withdraws from Europe, America becomes a lone wolf, China asserts itself, and a new world begins to form. Politician Vivienne Rook then begins her rise to power – that new breed of politician, an entertainer, a rebel, a trickster and a terror – leading the family into an unknown future through which they must navigate.
It is the ninth collaboration between Davies and Red Production Company founder Nicola Shindler following shows such as Queer As Folk and Cucumber.
- 6/4/2018
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Sophie Rundle, Gemma Whelan, Timothy West and Gemma Jones have been tapped to co-star opposite Suranne Jones in Gentleman Jack (fka Shibden Hall), HBO and BBC One’s eight-episode drama series from BAFTA-winning writer Sally Wainwright. Filming will begin next month in and around West Yorkshire and on location in Copenhagen. The series will premiere on BBC One in the UK.
Set in 1832 Halifax, West Yorkshire, Gentleman Jack focuses on landowner Anne Lister (Jones) and her determination to transform the fate of her faded ancestral home, Shibden Hall, by reopening the coal mines and marrying well. The story examines Anne’s relationships at home with her family, servants, tenants and industrial rivals and, most importantly, would-be wife. Based in historical fact, the real-life...
Set in 1832 Halifax, West Yorkshire, Gentleman Jack focuses on landowner Anne Lister (Jones) and her determination to transform the fate of her faded ancestral home, Shibden Hall, by reopening the coal mines and marrying well. The story examines Anne’s relationships at home with her family, servants, tenants and industrial rivals and, most importantly, would-be wife. Based in historical fact, the real-life...
- 4/26/2018
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Now here’s a superhero team-up we’re excited to see: The screenwriter of Wonder Woman and Shonda Rhimes are joining forces for a new ABC pilot.
Allan Heinberg has signed a script deal with the network to write a new Shondaland dramedy pilot, TVLine has learned, along with an overall development deal with ABC Studios. The pilot, tentatively titled Adult Behavior, is described as “a sexy, multi-generational, comedic drama” and is based on the British gay comedy series Cucumber and Banana, which aired here in the U.S. on Logo.
RelatedScandal Officially Ending, Season 7 Is Olivia’s Swan...
Allan Heinberg has signed a script deal with the network to write a new Shondaland dramedy pilot, TVLine has learned, along with an overall development deal with ABC Studios. The pilot, tentatively titled Adult Behavior, is described as “a sexy, multi-generational, comedic drama” and is based on the British gay comedy series Cucumber and Banana, which aired here in the U.S. on Logo.
RelatedScandal Officially Ending, Season 7 Is Olivia’s Swan...
- 6/21/2017
- TVLine.com
Allan Heinberg, screenwriter for this summer’s box-office smash “Wonder Woman,” has inked an overall development deal with ABC Studios and ABC Signature Studios. He is developing the multi-generational comedic drama “Adult Behavior” for the network. The project is inspired by Russell T Davies’ intersecting 2015 British TV series, “Cucumber” and “Banana.” Executive producers on “Adult Behavior” are “Queer as Folk” creator Davies; Shondaland’s Shonda Rhimes and Betsy Beers; Julie Gardner of Bad Wolf; and Nicola Shindler of Red. Also Read: Wonder Woman Vs Superman: Gal Gadot Didn't Make 46 Times Less Than Henry Cavill Heinberg was the showrunner for ABC’s “The Catch,...
- 6/21/2017
- by Ryan Gajewski
- The Wrap
Louisa Mellor Apr 21, 2017
We chatted to actor Luke Newberry about his BBC Radio 4 Home Front role, In The Flesh, getting his start in acting and more…
“I’m still umm-ing, how annoying for you!” he says, but interviewing Luke Newberry isn’t annoying in the least. He’s at pains to give proper answers to questions, literally so judging by some of the noises he makes in our half-hour chat. His frustrated ‘aaghs’ and ‘ooohs’ and ‘umms’ are the sound of someone who doesn’t have a ready-made patter and who doesn’t want to just say any old thing.
See related Line Of Duty series 4 episode 5 review Line Of Duty series 4, and the clues hiding in series 1 Line Of Duty: creator Jed Mercurio interview
When I ask him who would be his dream director, for instance, Newberry pauses, asks if we can come back to it later, pauses...
We chatted to actor Luke Newberry about his BBC Radio 4 Home Front role, In The Flesh, getting his start in acting and more…
“I’m still umm-ing, how annoying for you!” he says, but interviewing Luke Newberry isn’t annoying in the least. He’s at pains to give proper answers to questions, literally so judging by some of the noises he makes in our half-hour chat. His frustrated ‘aaghs’ and ‘ooohs’ and ‘umms’ are the sound of someone who doesn’t have a ready-made patter and who doesn’t want to just say any old thing.
See related Line Of Duty series 4 episode 5 review Line Of Duty series 4, and the clues hiding in series 1 Line Of Duty: creator Jed Mercurio interview
When I ask him who would be his dream director, for instance, Newberry pauses, asks if we can come back to it later, pauses...
- 4/20/2017
- Den of Geek
Ryan Coogler’s already impressive Black Panther cast continues to expand today with the addition of up-and-coming Ready Player One actress Letitia Wright, who will take on the role of Serita.
I’m not that well versed on Black Panther‘s supporting characters, but as far as I know Serita is not a main player in the Marvel comics lore. Variety, who broke the story, don’t offer any other details, though they do confirm that she’s a Wakandan. It may turn out that Serita is a member of the Royal Family, but then again, it’s just as likely that she’ll be allied with T’Challa’s mortal enemy, Erik Killmonger (Michael B. Jordan).
22-year-old British actress Letitia Wright got her big break when she beat out stiff competition for a key role in Steven Spielberg’s adaptation of Ready Player One, but she may also be...
I’m not that well versed on Black Panther‘s supporting characters, but as far as I know Serita is not a main player in the Marvel comics lore. Variety, who broke the story, don’t offer any other details, though they do confirm that she’s a Wakandan. It may turn out that Serita is a member of the Royal Family, but then again, it’s just as likely that she’ll be allied with T’Challa’s mortal enemy, Erik Killmonger (Michael B. Jordan).
22-year-old British actress Letitia Wright got her big break when she beat out stiff competition for a key role in Steven Spielberg’s adaptation of Ready Player One, but she may also be...
- 10/20/2016
- by Mark Cassidy
- We Got This Covered
Carrie Anne-Moss (Jessica Jones), Sam Palladio (Nashville), Marshall Allman (Prison Break) Sonya Cassidy (Olympus) and Letitia Wright (Cucumber/Banana) have joined the Season 2 cast of AMC and Channel 4 sci-fi drama series Humans. Moss will play Dr. Athena Morrow, a pre-eminent Artificial Intelligence expert who is driven by her own motives to create a new kind of machine consciousness. Palladio is Ed, a struggling café owner trying to breathe life into his family…...
- 4/21/2016
- Deadline TV
Louisa Mellor Rob Leane Feb 15, 2017
Broadchurch series 3 arrives on ITV on Monday the 27th of February in the UK...
David Tennant and Olivia Colman will return for Broadchurch series 3 this year, as writer Chris Chibnall delivers the show's final series before heading off to become the Doctor Who showrunner.
See related Legion: 18 questions we have after the X-Men TV show pilot Legion: Chapter One review Legion: spoiler-free review Legion: trailer for Chapter Three
Today, ITV has released the first trailer for the new run. Here it is...
Broadchurch series 3 UK air date
Series 3 of Broadchurch will start on Monday the 27th of Feburary on ITV in the UK.
Broadchurch series 3 cast
Comedian, actor, writer, campaigner and knight bachelor Sir Lenny Henry has joined the ensemble cast of ITV's Broadchurch series three in an as-yet-undisclosed role. Don't expect it to be a comic part though, given the series' "serious sexual assault" storyline.
Broadchurch series 3 arrives on ITV on Monday the 27th of February in the UK...
David Tennant and Olivia Colman will return for Broadchurch series 3 this year, as writer Chris Chibnall delivers the show's final series before heading off to become the Doctor Who showrunner.
See related Legion: 18 questions we have after the X-Men TV show pilot Legion: Chapter One review Legion: spoiler-free review Legion: trailer for Chapter Three
Today, ITV has released the first trailer for the new run. Here it is...
Broadchurch series 3 UK air date
Series 3 of Broadchurch will start on Monday the 27th of Feburary on ITV in the UK.
Broadchurch series 3 cast
Comedian, actor, writer, campaigner and knight bachelor Sir Lenny Henry has joined the ensemble cast of ITV's Broadchurch series three in an as-yet-undisclosed role. Don't expect it to be a comic part though, given the series' "serious sexual assault" storyline.
- 4/12/2016
- Den of Geek
The cast of BAFTA winning comedy drama Cold Feet – James Nesbitt, Robert Bathurst, Hermione Norris, John Thomson, and Fay Ripley – are reunited and returning to our screens after a 13-year break, and the new series has started filming in Manchester
The newest cast members are the children, who are now being portrayed as teenagers.
Actor and Radio 1 presenter Ceallach Spellman has joined the cast of the upcoming new series of Cold Feet. He will play Matthew - the son of Adam and Rachel in the revived ITV drama.
20 year old Ceallach (represented by United Agents) from Manchester said: "I am so excited and somewhat humbled to be given such a wonderful opportunity to be part of this fantastic story which was so popular and successful 14 years ago. I cannot wait to work with the director, Terry McDonough, all the cast and crew and I am particularly looking forward to working...
The newest cast members are the children, who are now being portrayed as teenagers.
Actor and Radio 1 presenter Ceallach Spellman has joined the cast of the upcoming new series of Cold Feet. He will play Matthew - the son of Adam and Rachel in the revived ITV drama.
20 year old Ceallach (represented by United Agents) from Manchester said: "I am so excited and somewhat humbled to be given such a wonderful opportunity to be part of this fantastic story which was so popular and successful 14 years ago. I cannot wait to work with the director, Terry McDonough, all the cast and crew and I am particularly looking forward to working...
- 2/8/2016
- by noreply@blogger.com (ScreenTerrier)
- ScreenTerrier
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Mr Robot, Cucumber, Inside No. 9...Here are Den Of Geek writers' top 15 TV episodes of 2015. Did your favourites make the cut?
The votes are in.
Earlier this month, over thirty of Den Of Geek's writers nominated up to five of their favourite television episodes of the year, ranked in order of preference. Points were allocated. Favourites emerged. And the sanity of the site's TV editor was offered once again as a festive sacrifice to the God of Microsoft Excel worksheets.
Over eighty individual episodes were nominated in total, and below are the fifteen that placed highest overall...
15. Rick & Morty – Total Rickall
What our writer said:
“Clip shows are traditionally seen as ways to save money, building a flimsy narrative framework of nostalgia-fuelled new footage around flashbacks to previous episodes. Somehow, Dan Harmon's shows usually manage to put more effort into spoofing this type of episode than any other episode.
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Mr Robot, Cucumber, Inside No. 9...Here are Den Of Geek writers' top 15 TV episodes of 2015. Did your favourites make the cut?
The votes are in.
Earlier this month, over thirty of Den Of Geek's writers nominated up to five of their favourite television episodes of the year, ranked in order of preference. Points were allocated. Favourites emerged. And the sanity of the site's TV editor was offered once again as a festive sacrifice to the God of Microsoft Excel worksheets.
Over eighty individual episodes were nominated in total, and below are the fifteen that placed highest overall...
15. Rick & Morty – Total Rickall
What our writer said:
“Clip shows are traditionally seen as ways to save money, building a flimsy narrative framework of nostalgia-fuelled new footage around flashbacks to previous episodes. Somehow, Dan Harmon's shows usually manage to put more effort into spoofing this type of episode than any other episode.
- 12/18/2015
- by louisamellor
- Den of Geek
Bernard Cribbins! Matt Lucas! Maxine Peake! The BBC has announced an impressive cast for Russell T Davies’ Midsummer Night’s Dream…
Russell T Davies is returning to the BBC’s Doctor Who base in Cardiff. But he’ll be dabbling in Shakespeare, not spaceships. The cast for his new version of A Midsummer Night’s Dream has been announced.
For Who fans, the most exciting news is a reunion between Russell T Davies and Bernard Cribbins, who will play Tom Snout, an amateur performer who memorably portrays a wall in a play within the play. Let's hope Cribbins isn't bricking it, eh?
Elsewhere in the cast, you’ve got Maxine Peake as Titania, Matt Lucas as Bottom, and John Hannah as Theseus. Eleanor Matsuura of Spooks will play Hippolyta and Hiran Abeysekera (seen in Lion In The Tent) will portray Puck.
Cucumber alum Fisayo Akinade has been cast as Flute,...
Russell T Davies is returning to the BBC’s Doctor Who base in Cardiff. But he’ll be dabbling in Shakespeare, not spaceships. The cast for his new version of A Midsummer Night’s Dream has been announced.
For Who fans, the most exciting news is a reunion between Russell T Davies and Bernard Cribbins, who will play Tom Snout, an amateur performer who memorably portrays a wall in a play within the play. Let's hope Cribbins isn't bricking it, eh?
Elsewhere in the cast, you’ve got Maxine Peake as Titania, Matt Lucas as Bottom, and John Hannah as Theseus. Eleanor Matsuura of Spooks will play Hippolyta and Hiran Abeysekera (seen in Lion In The Tent) will portray Puck.
Cucumber alum Fisayo Akinade has been cast as Flute,...
- 9/24/2015
- by rleane
- Den of Geek
Russell T Davies is returning to the BBC's Cardiff base to adapt William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream…
Here’s an exciting one. Doctor Who legend Russell T Davies is returning to the BBC (and to Cardiff’s Doctor Who base!), to put his spin on another bastion of British culture – he’s adapting William Shakespeare.
Specifically, Russell T Davies is working on the script for a 90-minute adaptation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. His adaptation – which will be directed by David Kerr (Inside No. 9, That Mitchell And Webb Look, Fresh Meat) – is going by the title The Dream.
Although it’s being adapted by Davies, this new staging of the iconic comedy play has been described as ‘a truthful version […] the original play, the original words, the original Shakespeare. Warm and funny, it will have as much attitude and invention as any theatrical interpretation.’
“I...
Here’s an exciting one. Doctor Who legend Russell T Davies is returning to the BBC (and to Cardiff’s Doctor Who base!), to put his spin on another bastion of British culture – he’s adapting William Shakespeare.
Specifically, Russell T Davies is working on the script for a 90-minute adaptation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. His adaptation – which will be directed by David Kerr (Inside No. 9, That Mitchell And Webb Look, Fresh Meat) – is going by the title The Dream.
Although it’s being adapted by Davies, this new staging of the iconic comedy play has been described as ‘a truthful version […] the original play, the original words, the original Shakespeare. Warm and funny, it will have as much attitude and invention as any theatrical interpretation.’
“I...
- 8/27/2015
- by rleane
- Den of Geek
Russell T Davies is going to tackle Shakespeare - he's adapting A Midsummer Night's Dream for BBC One.
Davies will return to Cardiff - home of Doctor Who - for the 90-minute production, to air in 2016, it was announced at this year's Edinburgh International TV Festival.
"I've wanted to make this for the BBC for my entire adult life - and only the BBC can put on a play like this, for all the family, smack-bang in the heart of prime-time," the award-winning writer said.
"With a riot of prosthetics, CGI, magic and action, it needs the brilliant Doctor Who team in Cardiff to bring it to life."
A new six-part series from 12 Years a Slave filmmaker Steve McQueen has also been formally announced - the as-yet-untitled drama will follow a West Indian community in the heart of London across three decades, beginning in 1968.
Tony Jordan - Hustle creator and...
Davies will return to Cardiff - home of Doctor Who - for the 90-minute production, to air in 2016, it was announced at this year's Edinburgh International TV Festival.
"I've wanted to make this for the BBC for my entire adult life - and only the BBC can put on a play like this, for all the family, smack-bang in the heart of prime-time," the award-winning writer said.
"With a riot of prosthetics, CGI, magic and action, it needs the brilliant Doctor Who team in Cardiff to bring it to life."
A new six-part series from 12 Years a Slave filmmaker Steve McQueen has also been formally announced - the as-yet-untitled drama will follow a West Indian community in the heart of London across three decades, beginning in 1968.
Tony Jordan - Hustle creator and...
- 8/26/2015
- Digital Spy
The cast for the second series of Happy Valley has been announced in full, and there are plenty of new and familiar faces.
Sarah Lancashire will return in the lead role, alongside the likes of James Norton, Siobhan Finneran, George Costigan, Karl Davies and Charlie Murphy.
Harry Potter's Matthew Lewis (Neville Longbottom) is among the newcomers to the show. He'll be joined by former Coronation street stars Katherine Kelly and Julie Hesmondhalgh.
Shirley Henderson, Amelia Bullmore, Downton Abbey's Kevin Doyle and Cucumber's Con O'Neill and Vincent Franklin also star.
Airing next year, the six-episode series sees Catherine and her team hunt down a potential new serial killer in Calder Valley.
Writer and Executive Producer Sally Wainwright said: "I am thrilled to be embarking on a second series. We were delighted and overwhelmed with the viewers' response to series one and it's clear that there's a huge appetite...
Sarah Lancashire will return in the lead role, alongside the likes of James Norton, Siobhan Finneran, George Costigan, Karl Davies and Charlie Murphy.
Harry Potter's Matthew Lewis (Neville Longbottom) is among the newcomers to the show. He'll be joined by former Coronation street stars Katherine Kelly and Julie Hesmondhalgh.
Shirley Henderson, Amelia Bullmore, Downton Abbey's Kevin Doyle and Cucumber's Con O'Neill and Vincent Franklin also star.
Airing next year, the six-episode series sees Catherine and her team hunt down a potential new serial killer in Calder Valley.
Writer and Executive Producer Sally Wainwright said: "I am thrilled to be embarking on a second series. We were delighted and overwhelmed with the viewers' response to series one and it's clear that there's a huge appetite...
- 8/22/2015
- Digital Spy
Transgender actress Bethany Black has been cast in series nine of Doctor Who.
The 36-year-old actress and comedian will make a guest appearance and won't be playing a transgender character.
Black announced the news on her Facebook page: "It is genuinely the greatest job I could ever have imagined getting. Everything about it is magical.
"I'm enjoying every day of filming and cherishing it, because you never know if you'll ever get to do anything like this again.
"I only hope that I do the role and the show justice, and that you all enjoy it. For me it's the gig of a lifetime."
Black previously appeared in former Doctor Who showrunner Russell T Davies's Channel 4 drama Cucumber and Banana.
Reece Shearsmith, Game of Thrones actress Maisie Williams, Michelle Gomez, Rufus Hound and Rebecca Front are also guest starring in the upcoming series.
Peter Capaldi is returning for...
The 36-year-old actress and comedian will make a guest appearance and won't be playing a transgender character.
Black announced the news on her Facebook page: "It is genuinely the greatest job I could ever have imagined getting. Everything about it is magical.
"I'm enjoying every day of filming and cherishing it, because you never know if you'll ever get to do anything like this again.
"I only hope that I do the role and the show justice, and that you all enjoy it. For me it's the gig of a lifetime."
Black previously appeared in former Doctor Who showrunner Russell T Davies's Channel 4 drama Cucumber and Banana.
Reece Shearsmith, Game of Thrones actress Maisie Williams, Michelle Gomez, Rufus Hound and Rebecca Front are also guest starring in the upcoming series.
Peter Capaldi is returning for...
- 8/8/2015
- Digital Spy
“Doctor Who” has cast its first transgender performer in the British sci-fi series’ 52-year history. Bethany Black, of Lancashire, England, will appear in the upcoming Season 9 of the revived run of the classic show when it premieres on BBC America on Sept. 19, the actress confirmed on Facebook. Black, 36, is set to play a non-transgender character in an episode written by Mark Gatiss. The standup comedian currently appears on Channel 4 series “Cucumber” in the U.K., and sister series “Banana,” which were created by former “Doctor Who” showrunner Russell T. Davies. Also Read: 'Doctor Who' Season 9 Trailer, Premiere...
- 8/7/2015
- by Debbie Emery
- The Wrap
Reece Shearsmith will star in a "very scary episode" of Doctor Who.
He will reunite with his League of Gentlemen co-star Mark Gatiss, who has written the episode for the show's upcoming ninth series.
Of course, it isn't the first time Shearsmith has been involved in the Doctor Who universe - he starred as Patrick Troughton in An Adventure in Space and Time back in 2013.
On his new role, the actor said: "I am absolutely thrilled to be filming Doctor Who as Mark Gatiss has written a fantastic role for me in a very scary episode.
"It has been so exciting to be part of a very singular episode - which, I can say with authority will be unlike any previous episode of Doctor Who. It's a joy to play a part in the show - certainly a badge of honour."
Shearsmith admitted that he would love to play a...
He will reunite with his League of Gentlemen co-star Mark Gatiss, who has written the episode for the show's upcoming ninth series.
Of course, it isn't the first time Shearsmith has been involved in the Doctor Who universe - he starred as Patrick Troughton in An Adventure in Space and Time back in 2013.
On his new role, the actor said: "I am absolutely thrilled to be filming Doctor Who as Mark Gatiss has written a fantastic role for me in a very scary episode.
"It has been so exciting to be part of a very singular episode - which, I can say with authority will be unlike any previous episode of Doctor Who. It's a joy to play a part in the show - certainly a badge of honour."
Shearsmith admitted that he would love to play a...
- 8/5/2015
- Digital Spy
Bearded and balding, with the slight paunch of middle-aged managers and desk jockeys, Henry Best (Vincent Franklin) roams the aisles of his local grocery dreaming of more than dinner. In the opening minutes of "Cucumber," as Henry details the inspiration for the series' title—a study that divided erections by hardness into four categories, "tofu," "peeled banana," "banana," and "cucumber"—he admires the fresh meat on display, too: cocks and asses squeezed into tight denim, muscular arms bared under the fluorescent lights. "Cucumber" and its half-hour counterpart, "Banana," are, in this sense, exactly what the most vocal critics of "Looking" wanted, but as Truman Capote once quoted Saint Teresa of Avila, "more tears are shed over answered prayers than unanswered ones." Last month, when HBO cancelled the series after the conclusion of its second season, the debate over "Looking"—long...
- 4/14/2015
- by Matt Brennan
- Thompson on Hollywood
Read More: The Final Season of 'Downton Abbey': Why Deciding to End Well Is So Important If you've never paid attention to the work of Russell T. Davies, you've missed out on decades of groundbreaking television writing from the UK. The man who pioneered the portrayal of gay life on television with the original series "Queer as Folk," and brought a human touch to reviving the sci-fi franchise "Doctor Who," has been changing the game when it comes to how anyone — or everyone — might be portrayed on television. This week, Logo premieres "Cucumber," an hour-long drama series about an older gay man grappling with a mid-life crisis, and "Banana," a half-hour companion series from the point-of-view of the younger folks who mix into his life. It's a bold experiment with form, but that's nothing new for Davies. Below, he tells Indiewire about the "idiot" who kept "Doctor Who...
- 4/14/2015
- by Liz Shannon Miller
- Indiewire
Let’s talk about sex, specifically the Erection Hardness Score developed by the European Association of Urology, which classifies the stages of the male erection over four levels: tofu, peeled banana, banana, and cucumber. It was from these designations that writer Russell T. Davies—best known for his tenure as showrunner on the new Doctor Who—got the titles of his very compelling (and very uneven) new pair of TV shows. Read more: Logo Lands Pair of Series From 'Doctor Who's' Russell T. Davies Both Cucumber and Banana (as well as the companion web doc Tofu) are something of a homecoming for Davies, returning
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- 4/12/2015
- by Keith Uhlich
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Dare we say we're entering the golden age of elderly Lgbt representation on television? Joining Jill Soloway's Transparent and Russell T Davies's Cucumber is Grace and Frankie, a Netflix show about two wives, Grace (Jane Fonda) and Frankie (Lily Tomlin), who bond after their husbands (Martin Sheen and Sam Waterston, respectively) leave the women for each other. From the trailer, the show seems like a delightful opportunity to watch all of your favorite septuagenarians let loose. The binge-watching starts on May 8.
- 4/9/2015
- by E. Alex Jung
- Vulture
Sherlock series 4, starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman, will be themed around "consequences" says Steven Moffat...
This is a round-up of news relating to Sherlock's fourth series. (We say news. We're being a tad optimistic there.)
To read about on the one-off Victorian-set Sherlock special, due to air at an as-yet-undisclosed-date-but-probably-Christmas this year, please see here.
Latest news
This Entertainment Weekly interview with Steven Moffat provided a few characteristic teases from the Sherlock showrunner, including the promise that series four would contain answers "to questions which nobody has asked" (Sherlock's Gcse results? Mycroft's shoe size? We're just spitballing here). Moffat continued, "we're very exultant about a little thing we've set up that no one is talking about". Fingers at the ready, people, and let the chin-stroking commence...
Asked what the theme of series four would be, Moffat said "It's consequences. Chickens come home to roost. It's dark in...
This is a round-up of news relating to Sherlock's fourth series. (We say news. We're being a tad optimistic there.)
To read about on the one-off Victorian-set Sherlock special, due to air at an as-yet-undisclosed-date-but-probably-Christmas this year, please see here.
Latest news
This Entertainment Weekly interview with Steven Moffat provided a few characteristic teases from the Sherlock showrunner, including the promise that series four would contain answers "to questions which nobody has asked" (Sherlock's Gcse results? Mycroft's shoe size? We're just spitballing here). Moffat continued, "we're very exultant about a little thing we've set up that no one is talking about". Fingers at the ready, people, and let the chin-stroking commence...
Asked what the theme of series four would be, Moffat said "It's consequences. Chickens come home to roost. It's dark in...
- 3/29/2015
- by louisamellor
- Den of Geek
The world of Doctor Who has changed greatly in the space of just 10 years. The cast and crew have almost completely been replaced since 2005, including a number of new actors to play the errant Time Lord and his companions.
But what has happened to the class of '05? Where are Rose and Mickey now? What is the writer of 'Dalek' up to? And where can you see more work from the director of 'Rose'?
Here it is then, your guide to the main players of Doctor Who series one.
The Cast
After his three-month on-screen stint as the Doctor, Christopher Eccleston's career continued in much the same vein, taking in theatre, interesting television roles and the odd blockbuster.
Post-2005, the Northern actor went Stateside to take on the role of invisible man Claude in the Us series Heroes. From there, he popped up in a very amusing Doctor Who-esque cameo as Dr.
But what has happened to the class of '05? Where are Rose and Mickey now? What is the writer of 'Dalek' up to? And where can you see more work from the director of 'Rose'?
Here it is then, your guide to the main players of Doctor Who series one.
The Cast
After his three-month on-screen stint as the Doctor, Christopher Eccleston's career continued in much the same vein, taking in theatre, interesting television roles and the odd blockbuster.
Post-2005, the Northern actor went Stateside to take on the role of invisible man Claude in the Us series Heroes. From there, he popped up in a very amusing Doctor Who-esque cameo as Dr.
- 3/24/2015
- Digital Spy
BFI Flare: London Lgbt Film Festival has announced the successful filmmakers who will take part in the inaugural BFI Flare Mentorship program in partnership with Creative Skillset. This pilot program offers support to five emerging Lgbt filmmakers who will be mentored by a senior figure from the film industry as they develop industry knowledge, professional connections, their passion for cinema and an overview of Lgbt features entering the marketplace with a tailored 9 month program of talks and screenings.
The winning filmmaker participants and their specially chosen mentors are:
Aleem Khan, writer/director, whose short film "Three Brothers" was BAFTA nominated in 2015 and who is currently working on new feature, "After Love." Mentor: Ben Roberts , Director, BFI Lottery Film Fund
Claire Kurylowski, whose web-based work, "In Real Life," garnered a place in Dazed Digital’s Visionaries series and had its cinema premiere at the Institute of Contemporary Arts as part of London Short Film Festival Mentor: Ester Martin Bergsmark, award-winning Swedish filmmaker ("Something Must Break," "She Male Snails")
Islay Bell-Webb, writer, an Nfts graduate who co-wrote "Slap" (directed by Nick Rowland), which was also BAFTA nominated earlier this year Mentor: Russell T. Davies OBE ("Doctor Who" and recently "Cucumber," "Banana" and "Tofu")
Rachelle Constant producer, who is currently a development editor at BBC Continuing Drama and recently produced short film "Two Dosas" which screened at BFI London Film FestivalMentors: Mike Goodridge, CEO of Protagonist Pictures, former editor Screen International; and BAFTA-nominated producer Gavin Humphries
Scout Stuart whose debut feature "Mud" was selected for initial development with Creative England’s iFeatures. He also co-wrote the recent short film "The Pig Child" Mentor: Hong Khaou, director of BAFTA-nominated "Lilting"
Tricia Tuttle, BFI Deputy Head of Festivals, said, “ Watching BFI Flare (formerly Llgff) grow in the last decades, we can see just how much Lgbt cinema has matured and emerged from the shadows. This is rich, vibrant work representing the diversity of Lgbt experience across the globe. But we were also aware there is still a lot of work to be done to support British filmmakers who are Lgbt identified and who may want to tell these stories. We were genuinely impressed by the number of quality applications we received, and blown away by the talent and spirit of our five selected filmmakers. The future of British Lgbt cinema looks very bright indeed. ”
Find out more on the BFI website: http://www.bfi.org.uk/flare/bfi-flare-mentorship-meet-filmmakers...
The winning filmmaker participants and their specially chosen mentors are:
Aleem Khan, writer/director, whose short film "Three Brothers" was BAFTA nominated in 2015 and who is currently working on new feature, "After Love." Mentor: Ben Roberts , Director, BFI Lottery Film Fund
Claire Kurylowski, whose web-based work, "In Real Life," garnered a place in Dazed Digital’s Visionaries series and had its cinema premiere at the Institute of Contemporary Arts as part of London Short Film Festival Mentor: Ester Martin Bergsmark, award-winning Swedish filmmaker ("Something Must Break," "She Male Snails")
Islay Bell-Webb, writer, an Nfts graduate who co-wrote "Slap" (directed by Nick Rowland), which was also BAFTA nominated earlier this year Mentor: Russell T. Davies OBE ("Doctor Who" and recently "Cucumber," "Banana" and "Tofu")
Rachelle Constant producer, who is currently a development editor at BBC Continuing Drama and recently produced short film "Two Dosas" which screened at BFI London Film FestivalMentors: Mike Goodridge, CEO of Protagonist Pictures, former editor Screen International; and BAFTA-nominated producer Gavin Humphries
Scout Stuart whose debut feature "Mud" was selected for initial development with Creative England’s iFeatures. He also co-wrote the recent short film "The Pig Child" Mentor: Hong Khaou, director of BAFTA-nominated "Lilting"
Tricia Tuttle, BFI Deputy Head of Festivals, said, “ Watching BFI Flare (formerly Llgff) grow in the last decades, we can see just how much Lgbt cinema has matured and emerged from the shadows. This is rich, vibrant work representing the diversity of Lgbt experience across the globe. But we were also aware there is still a lot of work to be done to support British filmmakers who are Lgbt identified and who may want to tell these stories. We were genuinely impressed by the number of quality applications we received, and blown away by the talent and spirit of our five selected filmmakers. The future of British Lgbt cinema looks very bright indeed. ”
Find out more on the BFI website: http://www.bfi.org.uk/flare/bfi-flare-mentorship-meet-filmmakers...
- 3/23/2015
- by Sydney Levine
- Sydney's Buzz
Russell T Davies's big TV comeback Cucumber and its companion series Banana are out on DVD from today - as individual editions or as one special box-set.
Cel Spellman played Adam in Cucumber - nephew to Henry (Vincent Franklin) who, unlike his uncle, was fazed by very little about modern sexuality.
Digital Spy spoke to Cel about getting his top off, lip-syncing to Katy Perry, getting intense for Screwdriver and whether we'll ever see Adam again.
Cucumber, Banana: Get an extra slice with behind-the-scenes clips
So how did you first get involved with Cucumber?
"It started out the same as anything - with the audition - and I'll be quite honest, I wasn't too aware of what it was really about, 'cos we only got sent a brief synopsis. So I went for it - but when I got the recall, I got a fuller pitch - that...
Cel Spellman played Adam in Cucumber - nephew to Henry (Vincent Franklin) who, unlike his uncle, was fazed by very little about modern sexuality.
Digital Spy spoke to Cel about getting his top off, lip-syncing to Katy Perry, getting intense for Screwdriver and whether we'll ever see Adam again.
Cucumber, Banana: Get an extra slice with behind-the-scenes clips
So how did you first get involved with Cucumber?
"It started out the same as anything - with the audition - and I'll be quite honest, I wasn't too aware of what it was really about, 'cos we only got sent a brief synopsis. So I went for it - but when I got the recall, I got a fuller pitch - that...
- 3/16/2015
- Digital Spy
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