No, this is not a new Audrey Hepburn/Hugh Jackman idea. If there was really a breakfast with Wolverine it would consist of, like, maybe whatever Rocky Balboa ate to get in shape.
From IMDB.com:
Hugh Jackman rewarded hundreds of fans camping overnight to see him at the world premiere of X-Men Origins: Wolverine by surprising them all with breakfast. [Film fans] in Tempe, Arizona won the chance to host the red carpet extravaganza in their desert city after claiming the most votes in an online poll, which Jackman launched himself. Throngs of Tempe residents proved their dedication when they lined up outside the Tempe Marketplace on Sunday - a day before Jackman arrived for the premiere on a Harley Davidson motorcycle. And the generous actor decided to treat the crowd - by personally placing a call to a local cafe and ordering a breakfast of coffee and pastries for 800 people.
Paradise Bakery's assistant manager Arianna Arroyo says, 'We were so surprised and amazed by the gesture, and I was thinking what a big challenge it would be to get everything done over. They were thrilled and really excited because they didn't expect something like that. People had made posters, were screaming at the media and it was so awesome to see. There are a lot of people waiting to just see him and it's pretty amazing what is happening out there just for one man.'"
Neato. Hugh Jackman is one of the coolest guys in movies.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Robert Downey Jr. as EDGAR ALLEN POE?
From ScreenRant.com:
"Robert Downey Jr. is riding a career that is only comparable to the one that is currently sweeping Mickey Rourke through Hollywood. Quite ironic considering that the two are starring in Iron Man II together. While The Soloist may not have set the box office alight last weekend, the upcoming Sherlock Holmes should assure some bums on seats. Downey may have the pick of scripts but the comeback kid appears to want to work with only one man - Sylvester Stallone. The Oscar nominated star has stated that he’s interested in Stallone’s biopic of Gothic writer Edgar Allan Poe. Stallone has been trying to get his Poe film off the ground for almost a decade and he even wanted Downey Jr to portray the infamous writer when the film almost finally took off in 2005. Years ago, Stallone and Downey’s careers were at their nadir and studio backing was not forthcoming. Now when questioned by the Metro over what types of films he would like to make, the Kiss Kiss Bang Bang star said, “Stallone wrote a great script that he wants to direct about Edgar Allan Poe.” With Stallone also flying high due to the back-to-back hits of Rocky Balboa and Rambo (or John Rambo) as well as the impending The Expendables, it looks like the Poe biopic might just make it to screens. Poe was behind some incredibly important literary classics including The Murders at Rue Morgue, The Raven, The Pit and the Pendulum and many more. In the 1960’s, schlock director Roger Corman made a series of masterful horror films based on Poe’s works starring horror legend Vincent Price (you really should check them out) and Lou Reed recorded an album inspired by his works. We’ll have more news on the project as (if) it develops."
I could see Downey Jr. as Edgar Allan Poe. Still can't get over Stallone wanting to do a Poe movie without injecting a scene with Poe holding up two sawed-off shotguns saying, "Who left the fridge open?" (Tropic Thunder)
"Robert Downey Jr. is riding a career that is only comparable to the one that is currently sweeping Mickey Rourke through Hollywood. Quite ironic considering that the two are starring in Iron Man II together. While The Soloist may not have set the box office alight last weekend, the upcoming Sherlock Holmes should assure some bums on seats. Downey may have the pick of scripts but the comeback kid appears to want to work with only one man - Sylvester Stallone. The Oscar nominated star has stated that he’s interested in Stallone’s biopic of Gothic writer Edgar Allan Poe. Stallone has been trying to get his Poe film off the ground for almost a decade and he even wanted Downey Jr to portray the infamous writer when the film almost finally took off in 2005. Years ago, Stallone and Downey’s careers were at their nadir and studio backing was not forthcoming. Now when questioned by the Metro over what types of films he would like to make, the Kiss Kiss Bang Bang star said, “Stallone wrote a great script that he wants to direct about Edgar Allan Poe.” With Stallone also flying high due to the back-to-back hits of Rocky Balboa and Rambo (or John Rambo) as well as the impending The Expendables, it looks like the Poe biopic might just make it to screens. Poe was behind some incredibly important literary classics including The Murders at Rue Morgue, The Raven, The Pit and the Pendulum and many more. In the 1960’s, schlock director Roger Corman made a series of masterful horror films based on Poe’s works starring horror legend Vincent Price (you really should check them out) and Lou Reed recorded an album inspired by his works. We’ll have more news on the project as (if) it develops."
I could see Downey Jr. as Edgar Allan Poe. Still can't get over Stallone wanting to do a Poe movie without injecting a scene with Poe holding up two sawed-off shotguns saying, "Who left the fridge open?" (Tropic Thunder)
LaBeouf's Walking on WALL STREET
From ComingSoon.net:
"Variety reports that 20th Century Fox has signed Oliver Stone to return as director of the sequel to his 1987 hit Wall Street.
Shia LaBeouf (Transformers films) is negotiating to join Michael Douglas, who won an Oscar for his portrayal of Gordon Gekko in the original film. The sequel will once again involve a young Wall Street trader, and the recent economic meltdown spurred by rampant greed and corruption will fit prominently into the plot.
Allan Loeb wrote the script. Edward R. Pressman is back as producer."
Well, if LaBeouf's in it, I trust it. Never seen the original ("Greed is good") but probably gonna have to now.
"Variety reports that 20th Century Fox has signed Oliver Stone to return as director of the sequel to his 1987 hit Wall Street.
Shia LaBeouf (Transformers films) is negotiating to join Michael Douglas, who won an Oscar for his portrayal of Gordon Gekko in the original film. The sequel will once again involve a young Wall Street trader, and the recent economic meltdown spurred by rampant greed and corruption will fit prominently into the plot.
Allan Loeb wrote the script. Edward R. Pressman is back as producer."
Well, if LaBeouf's in it, I trust it. Never seen the original ("Greed is good") but probably gonna have to now.
Will THE DARK KNIGHT Return?
From ComingSoon.net:
"Total Film talked to Christian Bale about the follow-up to The Dark Knight. Here's an excerpt:
'Will we do a third movie? It's got to be the right story. You can't make something like The Dark Knight and then come out with something disappointing. I would like it if people say, 'You'll never make a good third movie.' I say, 'OK, let's make a third movie in that case, let's prove them wrong. But that's just me. The fact is, I have to! I've signed up! Chris doesn't. So I'm in a bit of a fix if he says he doesn't want to!'"
Well, there you have it folks. Batman's back if a third movie's made. Let's hope Inception (Christopher Nolan's next movie) inspires Nolan to come back to do DK 2.
"Total Film talked to Christian Bale about the follow-up to The Dark Knight. Here's an excerpt:
'Will we do a third movie? It's got to be the right story. You can't make something like The Dark Knight and then come out with something disappointing. I would like it if people say, 'You'll never make a good third movie.' I say, 'OK, let's make a third movie in that case, let's prove them wrong. But that's just me. The fact is, I have to! I've signed up! Chris doesn't. So I'm in a bit of a fix if he says he doesn't want to!'"
Well, there you have it folks. Batman's back if a third movie's made. Let's hope Inception (Christopher Nolan's next movie) inspires Nolan to come back to do DK 2.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Shatner Dismisses Feud Over Star Trek Movie
From IMDB.com:
"Former Captain Kirk star William Shatner has dismissed rumours of a feud with the cast of the new Star Trek movie, insisting there's no bad blood. The veteran star was upset when director J.J. Abrams refused to include him in the new movie, choosing instead to recast the roles made famous by Shatner, Leonard Nimoy and DeForest Kelley. But Shatner is adamant any tension was a joke, and wishes his successor as Kirk - actor Chris Pine - the best of luck. The actor tells U.S. TV show Extra, 'I wish them all the best. I certainly hope it's a great success.' And he has a special message for Pine: 'Chris, good luck... and hold your breath. It's going to be a whirlwind.' Shatner insists he hasn't ruled out one day returning to the franchise: 'If the movie is successful and they make another one, never say never as James Bond... I loved 'Star Trek' in all its many phases. I dearly would love to be a part of it.'"
If you want visual proof, check this out: http://trekmovie.com/2009/04/25/jj-abrams-cast-attend-shatner-charity-event-w-first-meeting-of-the-kirks-bill-chris/
William Shatner's so famous, he can get Willie Nelson to play for him. I wonder if he performed a spoken word version of "On the Road Again" - "On. The. Road.... AGAIN. Just. Can't. Wait...TO GET ON...THAT ROAD...AGAIN!"
UPDATE:
From IMDB.com:
"William Shatner claims that the producers of the upcoming Star Trek movie are so determined to keep the plot under wraps that even his friend Leonard Nimoy, who, unlike Shatner, has a cameo role in the movie, won't tell him what it's about. In an interview with the syndicated The Insider TV gossip show, Shatner said, '[He] is maybe my dearest friend, so I'm so happy for him -- but he wouldn't tell me what the plot was'. About not being asked to participate in the film, the former Captain James T. Kirk said, 'It's peculiar, and I'm sad about it, but that's the way they did it.' Nevertheless, Shatner indicated that he is anxious to see whether the movie can achieve success given its reported $150-160-million budget. He noted that the earlier Star Trek movies 'peaked out at anywhere between $80-100 million in box office grosses. ... so they've got to make four times that' to become profitable, he said."
He's, of course, (purposefully?) forgetting his own Star Trek movie, Star Trek V: The Final Frontier that grossed... oh, let's see... this is from Wikipedia:
"The Final Frontier grossed $52,210,049 in the U.S. and around $70,000,000 worldwide against a $27,800,000 budget. Though profitable, the film was considered a financial disappointment by many. It made only around half what [Star Trek IV:] The Voyage Home had made, and it quickly dropped off the box office charts after its solid $17,375,648 opening weekend. It sold the fewest tickets of any Star Trek film up until Star Trek Nemesis thirteen years later, in 2002."
BTW, Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home - best Star Trek film I've seen before Star Trek.
"Former Captain Kirk star William Shatner has dismissed rumours of a feud with the cast of the new Star Trek movie, insisting there's no bad blood. The veteran star was upset when director J.J. Abrams refused to include him in the new movie, choosing instead to recast the roles made famous by Shatner, Leonard Nimoy and DeForest Kelley. But Shatner is adamant any tension was a joke, and wishes his successor as Kirk - actor Chris Pine - the best of luck. The actor tells U.S. TV show Extra, 'I wish them all the best. I certainly hope it's a great success.' And he has a special message for Pine: 'Chris, good luck... and hold your breath. It's going to be a whirlwind.' Shatner insists he hasn't ruled out one day returning to the franchise: 'If the movie is successful and they make another one, never say never as James Bond... I loved 'Star Trek' in all its many phases. I dearly would love to be a part of it.'"
If you want visual proof, check this out: http://trekmovie.com/2009/04/25/jj-abrams-cast-attend-shatner-charity-event-w-first-meeting-of-the-kirks-bill-chris/
William Shatner's so famous, he can get Willie Nelson to play for him. I wonder if he performed a spoken word version of "On the Road Again" - "On. The. Road.... AGAIN. Just. Can't. Wait...TO GET ON...THAT ROAD...AGAIN!"
UPDATE:
From IMDB.com:
"William Shatner claims that the producers of the upcoming Star Trek movie are so determined to keep the plot under wraps that even his friend Leonard Nimoy, who, unlike Shatner, has a cameo role in the movie, won't tell him what it's about. In an interview with the syndicated The Insider TV gossip show, Shatner said, '[He] is maybe my dearest friend, so I'm so happy for him -- but he wouldn't tell me what the plot was'. About not being asked to participate in the film, the former Captain James T. Kirk said, 'It's peculiar, and I'm sad about it, but that's the way they did it.' Nevertheless, Shatner indicated that he is anxious to see whether the movie can achieve success given its reported $150-160-million budget. He noted that the earlier Star Trek movies 'peaked out at anywhere between $80-100 million in box office grosses. ... so they've got to make four times that' to become profitable, he said."
He's, of course, (purposefully?) forgetting his own Star Trek movie, Star Trek V: The Final Frontier that grossed... oh, let's see... this is from Wikipedia:
"The Final Frontier grossed $52,210,049 in the U.S. and around $70,000,000 worldwide against a $27,800,000 budget. Though profitable, the film was considered a financial disappointment by many. It made only around half what [Star Trek IV:] The Voyage Home had made, and it quickly dropped off the box office charts after its solid $17,375,648 opening weekend. It sold the fewest tickets of any Star Trek film up until Star Trek Nemesis thirteen years later, in 2002."
BTW, Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home - best Star Trek film I've seen before Star Trek.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Extremely Early THE LOVELY BONES test screening reviews!
From AintItCool.com:
SPOILERS
"The film doesn't come out until December of this year, so I'm sure it's still rough days yet. But the powers that be test screened the movie last night and we got two people to write in about it.
The first contact we got was very simple, saying that it was a very, very good movie and they can't wait to see it again. I asked this person to elaborate on the film, the performances and the state of the effects (especially what Jackson's vision of 'heaven' is) and the first review is what I got back. Here it is:
'Oh sure, this is my first time... The movie was BETTER than I expected, and that's saying a lot because it's Peter Jackson... First the movie on a whole made me feel wonderful, which I didn't expect with such a dark premise, but Pete and crew are amazing with that kind of stuff. They tell you in the beginning what's going to happen, even so, there are parts that make you grip your chair with anticipation, or cringe with disgust even though you knew it was coming, and then the stuff you weren't prepared for, well it just blows you away. All the performances were fantastic, all the characters emotions felt so real, which I think is difficult with this kind of subject matter, no one can imagine this sort of thing happening to them. But Suzy Salmon, the main character, is superb. This character needed a strong actress and she shines through the whole movie, it's her that pulls you in a makes you care. You instantly feel for all the characters, even the bad one, which is strange... And the effects, which I would say hit about 25-30 minutes in, but I was so enthralled it's hard to say. But once the effects hit they are there apart of the movie and it feels so right. I didn't know what to expect of 'heaven' but once you saw it you knew that's exactly what it was supposed to look like. It's actually like you get the pay off of the movie in the beginning, but it last the whole movie. While I was watching, there were moments that would make think of a different movie, which isn't necessarily a good thing, but every time I thought that, I'd immediately note how this movie has done it 10 times better. I know you want more details on 'heaven', but it really should be a surprise, but I'd say, and I'm no expert, but it seems all the effects are CG, no 'physical' effects from what I could tell. When you were in 'heaven' with Suzy it seemed real, and then something entirely impossible and beautiful, or scary would happened and you'd be reminded it wasn't reality. I'd say the whole movie had a slightly 'other world' look to it, and a variety of camera work of the likes I don't think I've seen from Pete. This movie is definitely more in the vein of Heavenly Creatures which we expected, but this has something more, a new movie and style for Pete Jackson and I love it. I think the less you know the better, but anyway you see it, you're in for a real treat this December (hopefully)...'
Now the below review is certainly not as positive as the above review. It reads a tad on the snarky side to me, but the below review is just as valid a view-point as the above. I will say that it sounds as if the source material itself wasn't up this person's alley as many of their complaints stem from the novel. The only area of concern for me personally is the talk about Jackson's camerawork and editing being jarring. I hope that's not the case... it's definitely not Jackson's M.O.
Anyway, here's the second review, the other side of the coin:
'Last night I saw a test screening of Lovely Bones. It was said to be a work in progress with missing effects shots and the editing process was still ongoing. I don't know, I didn't see any scenes where there was obviously a CGI monster missing or anything. There were a few effect shots that didn't look finished and a bunch of spots that could use some color correction. But I usually feel that way walking out of a finished movie and this wasn't any more so. I know the score is usually one of the last elements to be added but I'm under the impression this was the Brian Eno score and not a temp. The story is about a bright and sensitive preteen girl (Saoirse Ronan) who loves photography; then she gets savagely murdered by a child abductor. She is consequently taken to a magical afterlife of imaginative wonder while her family is torn apart by overwrought drama. And they also are trying to find her killer. The same killer whose identity we learned an hour ago. This child abductor character was played by Stanly Tucci who I did not recognize and literally looked like he was dressed as a child molester for Halloween. He had a child molester mustache, a child molester hairline, child molester glasses, and he spoke with a child molester speech impediment. If he were a pirate he'd have an eye patch and three peg legs.
There's a line when Ronan's character is exploring this fantastical new afterlife of wonder and she decides it's not quite heaven and not quite the world of the living 'but a little bit of both'. That's the film's issue in a nut shell. It's two completely different things and they go together about as poorly as possible. The editing and camera work are jarring, blunt and clumsy. I've never seen Jackson (He's the director so I shoulda mentioned him by now) work like this, he keeps yanking me out of the scene and I hate it. There's lots of cross cutting between the two settings; the girl is lost in a forest of butterfly wings meanwhile her dad (Mark Wahlberg who I haven't mentioned) has a nervous breakdown and screams at his wife (a very unlikable Rachel Weisz) until they both cry. C'mon, I'm trying to escape to a world of magic here.'" Apparently they're aiming for a PG-13 , that's baffling. Lovely Bones is like a PG film and an R forced together in a shot gun wedding. I could see young girls really loving parts of this movie. Too bad the other parts are about a young girl being abducted and murdered. Might be kind of a tough sell. This cut had all these parts that don't fit. Why is Susan Sarandon in this movie? Why does the film turn into Rear Window at the 11th hour? Why does the murdered girl have an Asian sidekick in the afterlife? That's about as far as I'm willing to go in ripping this unfinished film. I definitely see how this is a work in transition and I hope this cut is like the missing link to the good film they end up making. There's emotionally effective bits, impressive visual accomplishments and Saoirse Ronan is quite good in the lead (except it stops being the lead half way through). They need to pick a direction, dial down the shrieking sound design they use to cover up the absence of suspense and tone down the heavy handed camera work and editing. If they address all those issues in a final cut I'd definitely be interested in giving this film another look.'"
Huh. Two different issues. Honestly, I'm willing to trust Peter Jackson. I mean, come on, you can't expect everything Peter Jackson does to be Lord of the Rings or King Kong.
SPOILERS
"The film doesn't come out until December of this year, so I'm sure it's still rough days yet. But the powers that be test screened the movie last night and we got two people to write in about it.
The first contact we got was very simple, saying that it was a very, very good movie and they can't wait to see it again. I asked this person to elaborate on the film, the performances and the state of the effects (especially what Jackson's vision of 'heaven' is) and the first review is what I got back. Here it is:
'Oh sure, this is my first time... The movie was BETTER than I expected, and that's saying a lot because it's Peter Jackson... First the movie on a whole made me feel wonderful, which I didn't expect with such a dark premise, but Pete and crew are amazing with that kind of stuff. They tell you in the beginning what's going to happen, even so, there are parts that make you grip your chair with anticipation, or cringe with disgust even though you knew it was coming, and then the stuff you weren't prepared for, well it just blows you away. All the performances were fantastic, all the characters emotions felt so real, which I think is difficult with this kind of subject matter, no one can imagine this sort of thing happening to them. But Suzy Salmon, the main character, is superb. This character needed a strong actress and she shines through the whole movie, it's her that pulls you in a makes you care. You instantly feel for all the characters, even the bad one, which is strange... And the effects, which I would say hit about 25-30 minutes in, but I was so enthralled it's hard to say. But once the effects hit they are there apart of the movie and it feels so right. I didn't know what to expect of 'heaven' but once you saw it you knew that's exactly what it was supposed to look like. It's actually like you get the pay off of the movie in the beginning, but it last the whole movie. While I was watching, there were moments that would make think of a different movie, which isn't necessarily a good thing, but every time I thought that, I'd immediately note how this movie has done it 10 times better. I know you want more details on 'heaven', but it really should be a surprise, but I'd say, and I'm no expert, but it seems all the effects are CG, no 'physical' effects from what I could tell. When you were in 'heaven' with Suzy it seemed real, and then something entirely impossible and beautiful, or scary would happened and you'd be reminded it wasn't reality. I'd say the whole movie had a slightly 'other world' look to it, and a variety of camera work of the likes I don't think I've seen from Pete. This movie is definitely more in the vein of Heavenly Creatures which we expected, but this has something more, a new movie and style for Pete Jackson and I love it. I think the less you know the better, but anyway you see it, you're in for a real treat this December (hopefully)...'
Now the below review is certainly not as positive as the above review. It reads a tad on the snarky side to me, but the below review is just as valid a view-point as the above. I will say that it sounds as if the source material itself wasn't up this person's alley as many of their complaints stem from the novel. The only area of concern for me personally is the talk about Jackson's camerawork and editing being jarring. I hope that's not the case... it's definitely not Jackson's M.O.
Anyway, here's the second review, the other side of the coin:
'Last night I saw a test screening of Lovely Bones. It was said to be a work in progress with missing effects shots and the editing process was still ongoing. I don't know, I didn't see any scenes where there was obviously a CGI monster missing or anything. There were a few effect shots that didn't look finished and a bunch of spots that could use some color correction. But I usually feel that way walking out of a finished movie and this wasn't any more so. I know the score is usually one of the last elements to be added but I'm under the impression this was the Brian Eno score and not a temp. The story is about a bright and sensitive preteen girl (Saoirse Ronan) who loves photography; then she gets savagely murdered by a child abductor. She is consequently taken to a magical afterlife of imaginative wonder while her family is torn apart by overwrought drama. And they also are trying to find her killer. The same killer whose identity we learned an hour ago. This child abductor character was played by Stanly Tucci who I did not recognize and literally looked like he was dressed as a child molester for Halloween. He had a child molester mustache, a child molester hairline, child molester glasses, and he spoke with a child molester speech impediment. If he were a pirate he'd have an eye patch and three peg legs.
There's a line when Ronan's character is exploring this fantastical new afterlife of wonder and she decides it's not quite heaven and not quite the world of the living 'but a little bit of both'. That's the film's issue in a nut shell. It's two completely different things and they go together about as poorly as possible. The editing and camera work are jarring, blunt and clumsy. I've never seen Jackson (He's the director so I shoulda mentioned him by now) work like this, he keeps yanking me out of the scene and I hate it. There's lots of cross cutting between the two settings; the girl is lost in a forest of butterfly wings meanwhile her dad (Mark Wahlberg who I haven't mentioned) has a nervous breakdown and screams at his wife (a very unlikable Rachel Weisz) until they both cry. C'mon, I'm trying to escape to a world of magic here.'" Apparently they're aiming for a PG-13 , that's baffling. Lovely Bones is like a PG film and an R forced together in a shot gun wedding. I could see young girls really loving parts of this movie. Too bad the other parts are about a young girl being abducted and murdered. Might be kind of a tough sell. This cut had all these parts that don't fit. Why is Susan Sarandon in this movie? Why does the film turn into Rear Window at the 11th hour? Why does the murdered girl have an Asian sidekick in the afterlife? That's about as far as I'm willing to go in ripping this unfinished film. I definitely see how this is a work in transition and I hope this cut is like the missing link to the good film they end up making. There's emotionally effective bits, impressive visual accomplishments and Saoirse Ronan is quite good in the lead (except it stops being the lead half way through). They need to pick a direction, dial down the shrieking sound design they use to cover up the absence of suspense and tone down the heavy handed camera work and editing. If they address all those issues in a final cut I'd definitely be interested in giving this film another look.'"
Huh. Two different issues. Honestly, I'm willing to trust Peter Jackson. I mean, come on, you can't expect everything Peter Jackson does to be Lord of the Rings or King Kong.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
The Turtles Are Back.
From ComingSoon.net:
"The Mirage Group has given the green light for development of a live-action major motion picture focusing on the origins of the iconic Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, targeted for release in 2011.
Announcement of the latest (fifth) big screen version of the crime-fighting 'heroes in a half-shell' comes on the day the Turtles kick off their 25th anniversary national 'Shell-ebration' in New York City with multiple events that include the honor of lighting the Empire State Building in 'turtle green' and a unique outdoor presentation of their beloved first Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles film at the Tribeca Film Festival 'Drive-In'.
Mirage is partnering with producers Scott Mednick (300, Superman Returns, 10,000 BC, and the upcoming Where the Wild Things Are) and Galen Walker (who produced the most recent computer-animated TMNT theatrical release) to create this live-action film. Peter Laird, Gary Richardson, Frederick Fierst, Eric Crown and Napoleon Smith III will serve as executive producers of the film, which is based on the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles characters created by Laird and Kevin Eastman. Mednick and Walker will serve as producers. The project is being funded through Lightbox Productions, LLC.
'It was critical to us to find people who both understood the Turtles franchise and were accomplished film makers who appreciated both the action and humor components of the Turtles' identity,' said Gary Richardson CEO, The Mirage Group. 'With Galen and Scott we know we've found great talent with those essential attributes.'
'The original dozen comics created by Peter Laird and Kevin Eastman are some of the best source material one could hope for,' said Mednick. 'We're excited to bring this story to a whole new generation of moviegoers as well as the legions of fans that have made the Turtles - Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, and Raphael as well as Splinter, April O'Neil, Casey Jones and, of course, the great villain Shredder - a part of their world for 25 years.'
Mednick has begun reaching out to writers and directors and is already in discussion with several high-profile actors interested in portraying Turtles characters they loved as kids.
4Kids Entertainment, master licensing agency for the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles property, will be handling all the movie merchandise licensing.
The 'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles' made their public premiere in May 1984 in a comic book published and distributed by Mirage Studios. A hugely successful TV series quickly followed, along with a record-setting licensing program and three successful live-action theatrical films. In 2003, the Turtles were re-introduced to a new generation through a fresh TV series, a computer- animated theatrical movie and new merchandising program. The 25th year of 'TMNT' will provide fans of all ages with the opportunity to experience this evergreen property in a ten-city mobile tour highlighted by the 'TMNT' Party Bus, a rolling museum of 'TMNT' memorabilia."
Now, I think this is a great idea. To be honest, I was never a die-hard "shell-head" (?) but I did watch the original series and have seen bits and pieces of the movies.
But they better have Sarah Michelle Gellar and Chris Evans in the flesh, this time.
"The Mirage Group has given the green light for development of a live-action major motion picture focusing on the origins of the iconic Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, targeted for release in 2011.
Announcement of the latest (fifth) big screen version of the crime-fighting 'heroes in a half-shell' comes on the day the Turtles kick off their 25th anniversary national 'Shell-ebration' in New York City with multiple events that include the honor of lighting the Empire State Building in 'turtle green' and a unique outdoor presentation of their beloved first Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles film at the Tribeca Film Festival 'Drive-In'.
Mirage is partnering with producers Scott Mednick (300, Superman Returns, 10,000 BC, and the upcoming Where the Wild Things Are) and Galen Walker (who produced the most recent computer-animated TMNT theatrical release) to create this live-action film. Peter Laird, Gary Richardson, Frederick Fierst, Eric Crown and Napoleon Smith III will serve as executive producers of the film, which is based on the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles characters created by Laird and Kevin Eastman. Mednick and Walker will serve as producers. The project is being funded through Lightbox Productions, LLC.
'It was critical to us to find people who both understood the Turtles franchise and were accomplished film makers who appreciated both the action and humor components of the Turtles' identity,' said Gary Richardson CEO, The Mirage Group. 'With Galen and Scott we know we've found great talent with those essential attributes.'
'The original dozen comics created by Peter Laird and Kevin Eastman are some of the best source material one could hope for,' said Mednick. 'We're excited to bring this story to a whole new generation of moviegoers as well as the legions of fans that have made the Turtles - Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, and Raphael as well as Splinter, April O'Neil, Casey Jones and, of course, the great villain Shredder - a part of their world for 25 years.'
Mednick has begun reaching out to writers and directors and is already in discussion with several high-profile actors interested in portraying Turtles characters they loved as kids.
4Kids Entertainment, master licensing agency for the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles property, will be handling all the movie merchandise licensing.
The 'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles' made their public premiere in May 1984 in a comic book published and distributed by Mirage Studios. A hugely successful TV series quickly followed, along with a record-setting licensing program and three successful live-action theatrical films. In 2003, the Turtles were re-introduced to a new generation through a fresh TV series, a computer- animated theatrical movie and new merchandising program. The 25th year of 'TMNT' will provide fans of all ages with the opportunity to experience this evergreen property in a ten-city mobile tour highlighted by the 'TMNT' Party Bus, a rolling museum of 'TMNT' memorabilia."
Now, I think this is a great idea. To be honest, I was never a die-hard "shell-head" (?) but I did watch the original series and have seen bits and pieces of the movies.
But they better have Sarah Michelle Gellar and Chris Evans in the flesh, this time.
S.H.I.E.L.D. Returns
From ComingSoon.net:
"Kate Mara and Clark Gregg have joined Marvel Studios' Iron Man 2, being directed by Jon Favreau and currently in Manhattan Beach, California. Mara's role is being kept under wraps, while Gregg is returning as Agent Phil Coulson of S.H.I.E.L.D. The duo joins a cast that includes Robert Downey Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Don Cheadle, Jon Favreau, Mickey Rourke, Sam Rockwell, Samuel L. Jackson, Scarlett Johansson, Garry Shandling and John Slattery. Paramount will release the sequel in theaters on May 7, 2010."
Of course this is not Kate Mara's first superhero movie, she did star in Zoom with Tim Allen.
BTW, I was hoping to see Robert Downey Jr. on Late Night with Jay Leno but instead they put on Dr. Phil. Dr. Phil?! Come on, get it together, NBC!!
"Kate Mara and Clark Gregg have joined Marvel Studios' Iron Man 2, being directed by Jon Favreau and currently in Manhattan Beach, California. Mara's role is being kept under wraps, while Gregg is returning as Agent Phil Coulson of S.H.I.E.L.D. The duo joins a cast that includes Robert Downey Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Don Cheadle, Jon Favreau, Mickey Rourke, Sam Rockwell, Samuel L. Jackson, Scarlett Johansson, Garry Shandling and John Slattery. Paramount will release the sequel in theaters on May 7, 2010."
Of course this is not Kate Mara's first superhero movie, she did star in Zoom with Tim Allen.
BTW, I was hoping to see Robert Downey Jr. on Late Night with Jay Leno but instead they put on Dr. Phil. Dr. Phil?! Come on, get it together, NBC!!
It's Your Final Answer - All Over Again!
From IMDB.com:
"ABC, which is slogging through another year of lackluster ratings, is planning to revive the show that rescued it when it was last in a ratings bind ten years ago -- Who Wants to Be a Millionaire. The network said Wednesday that it will air a two-week Millionaire 'tournament' in August, once again featuring Regis Philbin as host. The quiz show, which launched in 1999 and at one point regularly drew around 29 million viewers, lasted in primetime only three years, with season-to-season audience erosion blamed on overexposure. But the show has continued in syndication and remains a staple in primetime in other countries. (The Indian version was featured in the Oscar-winning film Slumdog Millionaire.)"
Of course, I am a huge fan of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire. I even have the CD rom game. But I hope that the game either removes or changes the two "NEW" lifelines - the crappy "Double Dip" and "Three Wise Men" (not that I'm calling the Three Wise Men crappy).
"ABC, which is slogging through another year of lackluster ratings, is planning to revive the show that rescued it when it was last in a ratings bind ten years ago -- Who Wants to Be a Millionaire. The network said Wednesday that it will air a two-week Millionaire 'tournament' in August, once again featuring Regis Philbin as host. The quiz show, which launched in 1999 and at one point regularly drew around 29 million viewers, lasted in primetime only three years, with season-to-season audience erosion blamed on overexposure. But the show has continued in syndication and remains a staple in primetime in other countries. (The Indian version was featured in the Oscar-winning film Slumdog Millionaire.)"
Of course, I am a huge fan of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire. I even have the CD rom game. But I hope that the game either removes or changes the two "NEW" lifelines - the crappy "Double Dip" and "Three Wise Men" (not that I'm calling the Three Wise Men crappy).
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
The one thing Michael Bay is afraid of...
From ScreenRant:
"Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen comes out on [June 24th] but there’s still quite a lot of work that needs to be done to finish it off, including the voice overs of the Transformers characters for which Bay describes as 'still not done'.
This is by no means a major news item but it sure is interesting. At least one of the characters needing a voice is the title character of The Fallen where actor Leonard Nimoy is reportedly desired to fill the role. Transformers and Star Trek writer, Roberto Orci, wrote on the Don Murphy (a producer for the Transformers movies) forums last month that he talked to Nimoy about it but reminded fans to not to get their hopes up.
MTV spoke with director Michael Bay and asked if the Star Trek actor would be among the voice cast:
'You know, he’s related to me… And now that you are filming this, maybe you can send it to him.'
Laughing during the response, Bay went on to explain his hesitance at popping the big question...
'[Nimoy] is married to Susan Bay, who’s a cousin to me… I just feel kind of bad about asking him. Like 'I can’t pay you that much? But would you do this voice?'
Bay explains that he doesn’t want to insult the family member by presenting him with a lowball offer because of his very limited budget allocated to compensating the voice cast.... Nimoy apparently told Bay’s mom that he’s interested.... MTV asked Bay about this and he explained that him and Spock have a family member to relay communications between them and that Nimoy told his mom that he 'might do it.'"
COME ON, MICHAEL!! IT'S NOT THAT HARD!! "[imitating Roger Rabbit] P-p-please be in my blockbuster movie, Mr. Nimoy, sir?"
UPDATE:
From ScreenRant.com:
A few days ago, Screen Rant reported on Michael Bay’s desire to have his cousin and Star Trek star Leonard Nimoy voice the title character in Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen. While this sounds like a great idea and an obvious choice with Nimoy’s family connection to Bay, his status as a sci-fi icon and his previous involvement in the original 1986 Transformers movie [as Decepticon reboot of Megatron, Galvatron], it’s not so simple for director Michael Bay. Bay is literally afraid to ask Nimoy to participate in the film with less than two months to go before its release. In an interview with MTV, the issue was revealed by Bay in a laughing manner. He claimed that the voice actors on the movie get paid little and he’s afraid of disrespecting family members by calling Nimoy and giving him a lowball offer to play a part in the film. Because of that, they’ve not been in direct contact and have been using Bay’s mom as a go-between of sorts. In a similar style, Nimoy took the opportunity of one of his own interviews to respond to Bay. This occurred when El Guapo at Latino Review got a chance to speak with the original Spock during the Star Trek press day this weekend and asked him if Bay had contacted him yet. Nimoy responded by looking into the camera and saying, 'Call me, Michael! Call me!' Nimoy continued on to say he’d gladly be a part of Transformers but for some reason Bay’s afraid to just ask. After that, Nimoy again pleaded for Bay to call him."
YOU SEE, MICHAEL?! EVEN SPOCK WANTS YOU TO CALL HIM! GET SCOTTY TO BEAM YOU UP AND GET IN TOUCH WITH MR. VULCAN!!!
UPDATE 2:
Well, it looks like Leonard Nimoy will not play "The Fallen" as originally planned. He was replaced by Tony Todd, best known for his roles in the Final Destination films and played a role in Michael Bay's The Rock. Looks like you let that one get away, Michael!
Nimoy instead contributed his voice services for Brad Silberling's Land of the Lost as the voice of the Zarn.
"Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen comes out on [June 24th] but there’s still quite a lot of work that needs to be done to finish it off, including the voice overs of the Transformers characters for which Bay describes as 'still not done'.
This is by no means a major news item but it sure is interesting. At least one of the characters needing a voice is the title character of The Fallen where actor Leonard Nimoy is reportedly desired to fill the role. Transformers and Star Trek writer, Roberto Orci, wrote on the Don Murphy (a producer for the Transformers movies) forums last month that he talked to Nimoy about it but reminded fans to not to get their hopes up.
MTV spoke with director Michael Bay and asked if the Star Trek actor would be among the voice cast:
'You know, he’s related to me… And now that you are filming this, maybe you can send it to him.'
Laughing during the response, Bay went on to explain his hesitance at popping the big question...
'[Nimoy] is married to Susan Bay, who’s a cousin to me… I just feel kind of bad about asking him. Like 'I can’t pay you that much? But would you do this voice?'
Bay explains that he doesn’t want to insult the family member by presenting him with a lowball offer because of his very limited budget allocated to compensating the voice cast.... Nimoy apparently told Bay’s mom that he’s interested.... MTV asked Bay about this and he explained that him and Spock have a family member to relay communications between them and that Nimoy told his mom that he 'might do it.'"
COME ON, MICHAEL!! IT'S NOT THAT HARD!! "[imitating Roger Rabbit] P-p-please be in my blockbuster movie, Mr. Nimoy, sir?"
UPDATE:
From ScreenRant.com:
A few days ago, Screen Rant reported on Michael Bay’s desire to have his cousin and Star Trek star Leonard Nimoy voice the title character in Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen. While this sounds like a great idea and an obvious choice with Nimoy’s family connection to Bay, his status as a sci-fi icon and his previous involvement in the original 1986 Transformers movie [as Decepticon reboot of Megatron, Galvatron], it’s not so simple for director Michael Bay. Bay is literally afraid to ask Nimoy to participate in the film with less than two months to go before its release. In an interview with MTV, the issue was revealed by Bay in a laughing manner. He claimed that the voice actors on the movie get paid little and he’s afraid of disrespecting family members by calling Nimoy and giving him a lowball offer to play a part in the film. Because of that, they’ve not been in direct contact and have been using Bay’s mom as a go-between of sorts. In a similar style, Nimoy took the opportunity of one of his own interviews to respond to Bay. This occurred when El Guapo at Latino Review got a chance to speak with the original Spock during the Star Trek press day this weekend and asked him if Bay had contacted him yet. Nimoy responded by looking into the camera and saying, 'Call me, Michael! Call me!' Nimoy continued on to say he’d gladly be a part of Transformers but for some reason Bay’s afraid to just ask. After that, Nimoy again pleaded for Bay to call him."
YOU SEE, MICHAEL?! EVEN SPOCK WANTS YOU TO CALL HIM! GET SCOTTY TO BEAM YOU UP AND GET IN TOUCH WITH MR. VULCAN!!!
UPDATE 2:
Well, it looks like Leonard Nimoy will not play "The Fallen" as originally planned. He was replaced by Tony Todd, best known for his roles in the Final Destination films and played a role in Michael Bay's The Rock. Looks like you let that one get away, Michael!
Nimoy instead contributed his voice services for Brad Silberling's Land of the Lost as the voice of the Zarn.
X-MEN: FIRST CLASS - School of Superheroes?
From /film:
"We’ve been hearing a lot about X-Men: First Class lately. Last week we learned that the film was not actually a spin-off, but a prequel which features 'young Scott, young Jean, young Beast' attending the Xavier Institute for Higher Learning. But more telling is the answer she gave SciFi Wire when they asked Producer Lauren Shuler Donner about the franchise potential of the series.
'I like kids. I did produce Pretty in Pink and St. Elmo’s Fire. I do like those kind of teenage movies; I really do. Part of it takes me to my roots. It’s action. There seems, to me, to be more humor, or more potential for humor. I really like that idea. The relationship … I don’t want to get into what the script is about, but it provides a bit of a lighter touch to the franchise.'"
My first immersion into X-Men was actually the cartoon, X-Men Evolution. This could work.
Besides we all can trust the wife of the father of superhero movies, can't we? (For those of who don't know, which would be most of you, it's director Richard Donner. Yes, that's right, The Goonies, the William Shatner Twilight Zone and Danger Island from "The Banana Splits")
"We’ve been hearing a lot about X-Men: First Class lately. Last week we learned that the film was not actually a spin-off, but a prequel which features 'young Scott, young Jean, young Beast' attending the Xavier Institute for Higher Learning. But more telling is the answer she gave SciFi Wire when they asked Producer Lauren Shuler Donner about the franchise potential of the series.
'I like kids. I did produce Pretty in Pink and St. Elmo’s Fire. I do like those kind of teenage movies; I really do. Part of it takes me to my roots. It’s action. There seems, to me, to be more humor, or more potential for humor. I really like that idea. The relationship … I don’t want to get into what the script is about, but it provides a bit of a lighter touch to the franchise.'"
My first immersion into X-Men was actually the cartoon, X-Men Evolution. This could work.
Besides we all can trust the wife of the father of superhero movies, can't we? (For those of who don't know, which would be most of you, it's director Richard Donner. Yes, that's right, The Goonies, the William Shatner Twilight Zone and Danger Island from "The Banana Splits")
Washington Werewolves!
Just for you Twilight fans out there... "Still kinda harpin' on that, huh? Well you know this little movie right here's pretty lucrative, ya know. Come on, hop in, go werewolf wherever. I know ya do that."
"USA Today has published [the] first look at The Twilight Saga: New Moon Wolf Pack members Chaske Spencer, Alex Meraz, Kiowa Gordon and Bronson Pelletier. In the story, the Wolf Pack defends humans against vampires although they have a tribal history intricately entwined with Edward Cullen and his family.
In related news, Hollywood Daily is hearing that David Slade (Hard Candy, 30 Days of Night) is in talks to direct third installment The Twilight Saga: Eclipse."
http://www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=54722
This one's mostly for the ladies. LADIES. Got it? Good. Let's keep it that way.
"USA Today has published [the] first look at The Twilight Saga: New Moon Wolf Pack members Chaske Spencer, Alex Meraz, Kiowa Gordon and Bronson Pelletier. In the story, the Wolf Pack defends humans against vampires although they have a tribal history intricately entwined with Edward Cullen and his family.
In related news, Hollywood Daily is hearing that David Slade (Hard Candy, 30 Days of Night) is in talks to direct third installment The Twilight Saga: Eclipse."
http://www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=54722
This one's mostly for the ladies. LADIES. Got it? Good. Let's keep it that way.
Sam Raimi talks SPIDER-MAN 4 - again.
From ComingSoon.net:
"SCI FI Wire chatted with Spider-Man 4 director Sam Raimi, who said that he's meeting soon with Kirsten Dunst to talk about her reprising the role of Mary Jane Watson. 'I think she would like to. But I don't want to speak on behalf of her,' he said.
He was also asked if the recent darker and edgier superhero movies will influence the fourth installment. 'I hope we don't react to these very good and sometimes bad superhero movies around us. I hope that we just [look] ever deeper into the truth of who Peter Parker really is—as a human being and the unique character, and that we celebrate that, which is a lot of the reason I want to make this next picture. I still believe I have an understanding of Peter Parker as the character that I have not quite put onto the screen yet,' he said."
I just wanna hear her say the full line, "Face it, Tiger. You just hit the jackpot."
UPDATE:
This just came across the wire.
From ComingSoon.net:
"Forbes talked to Sony Pictures Entertainment's co-chairmen Amy Pascal and Michael Lynton and asked whether they were considering doing Spider-Man 4 in 3-D. Pascal answered, 'Could be,' while Lynton added, 'People are paying a premium to see movies in 3-D and that's a very big deal. It's never been done before that someone says you have to pay more to see Spider-Man than a romantic comedy.' 2-D or 3-D, we'll be seeing Sam Raimi's fourth installment on May 6, 2011."
Huh. I would like to see a 3D superhero movie.
"SCI FI Wire chatted with Spider-Man 4 director Sam Raimi, who said that he's meeting soon with Kirsten Dunst to talk about her reprising the role of Mary Jane Watson. 'I think she would like to. But I don't want to speak on behalf of her,' he said.
He was also asked if the recent darker and edgier superhero movies will influence the fourth installment. 'I hope we don't react to these very good and sometimes bad superhero movies around us. I hope that we just [look] ever deeper into the truth of who Peter Parker really is—as a human being and the unique character, and that we celebrate that, which is a lot of the reason I want to make this next picture. I still believe I have an understanding of Peter Parker as the character that I have not quite put onto the screen yet,' he said."
I just wanna hear her say the full line, "Face it, Tiger. You just hit the jackpot."
UPDATE:
This just came across the wire.
From ComingSoon.net:
"Forbes talked to Sony Pictures Entertainment's co-chairmen Amy Pascal and Michael Lynton and asked whether they were considering doing Spider-Man 4 in 3-D. Pascal answered, 'Could be,' while Lynton added, 'People are paying a premium to see movies in 3-D and that's a very big deal. It's never been done before that someone says you have to pay more to see Spider-Man than a romantic comedy.' 2-D or 3-D, we'll be seeing Sam Raimi's fourth installment on May 6, 2011."
Huh. I would like to see a 3D superhero movie.
I "Might" Be Back? Schwarzengger on TERMINATOR SALVATION
From ComingSoon.net:
SPOILERS
The Los Angeles Times reports that Arnold Schwarzenegger discussed his possible cameo in Terminator Salvation during a webcast interview on Tuesday.
Schwarzenegger told blogger Bill Bradley that he had met with director McG and agreed to be in the movie as long as he didn't have to perform. "I made it very clear that I don't have the time to do the movie," he said. "I said that I would be willing to be in the movie if they get the technology together, and so they are working on that right now."
Spoiler alert! Schwarzenegger would be in a brief scene in which John Connor (Christian Bale) encounters him as a "future Terminator," the governor said, adding, "I think it's cool to continue on with the franchise... in case I want to jump over again and get into the acting after I'm through here."
More from AintItCool.com -
"I think McG's Terminator is looking pretty good... that last trailer was fantastic and I hope all the trailers and bits of footage I've seen are indicative of the whole and we get a cool, fun kick-ass movie. Now, the fact that it's PG-13 doesn't float my boat. I this trend of taking - franchises and PG-13ing them... Die Hard, Predator, Alien, now Terminator.
But that said, if it's a good movie then it's a good movie, doesn't matter what the rating is. And I love the idea of computer technology being there to give 1984's Arnold Schwarzenegger a cameo here. I think it could be done to rather cool effect as a glimpse here, a nod of what's to come. As long as they don't winky-winky at the audience too much, we'll be fine. I'm far more concerned about this talk about giving Kyle Reese a reason for wearing his '80s Nikes (how about that's what he found when he time traveled back to 1984? Hrmm?) than giving Schwarzenegger some screen time.
Anyway, Arnold did a twitter Q&A with his followers (his account is @schwarzenegger) and was asked about his appearance in T:S. This is what he had to say, which gives a context for what his cameo would be if it indeed comes to pass.
Here's the Governor:
'Right now, they're looking at the technology and see if it is possible to create a technology where they can use my image in the film without me actually filming, because I made it clear I don't have the time... and if they shoot outside the state, I would not participate... But I would be willing to be in the movie if they get the technology together. We have a great relationship with the people making the movie.. McG is the director, he's a terrific talented guy. I'm going to be at the premiere, I told him I want to be as supportive as possible.
I think that within the next week or so, we will see if they are technologically able to do that. It's terrific because they basically take technology out of Terminator 1 and use that walk of mine, and somehow bring it in... it's just a brief scene, where we see one of the leads run into a room and he sees the future terminators because it's kind of a prequel... then he gets thrown around, then he goes in another room and there's other terminators, so there's supposed to be all these new terminators. I think it's cool to continue on with the franchise, and in case I want to jump over again and get into the acting when we're through here.'"
UPDATE:
From AintItCool.com:
"Variety now has all the answers for us, via a very brief article which explains McG & Arnold's unwillingness to comment too conclusively on the matter until now. In short - no one knew where or not adding a CGI Arnold into the movie could be pulled off convincingly, and only recently has Schwarzenegger given final consent for his likeness to be used. Meaning: he will be in the film. Turns out Schwarzenegger has been secretly working with helmer McG and the effects team to reprise his signature role ... without lifting a finger. A body-cast mold of Schwarzenegger, created when he first appeared as the muscle-ripped cyborg, provided the basis for a digital-effects version of his famous character. The figure appears in Terminator Salvation as a living, breathing actor. Schwarzenegger viewed the resulting footage and gave his go-ahead just in time for McG to include the footage before the helmer completes his cut of the movie. Warners first screens the pic in early May and opens it May 21."
Good to see Arnold back in theaters even though for a little while.
UPDATE #2: Saw the movie. It's really, really good!
for those of you wanting a sneak peek at Arnold in the new film - here's a TV Spot:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2320yqtkU-o
SPOILERS
The Los Angeles Times reports that Arnold Schwarzenegger discussed his possible cameo in Terminator Salvation during a webcast interview on Tuesday.
Schwarzenegger told blogger Bill Bradley that he had met with director McG and agreed to be in the movie as long as he didn't have to perform. "I made it very clear that I don't have the time to do the movie," he said. "I said that I would be willing to be in the movie if they get the technology together, and so they are working on that right now."
Spoiler alert! Schwarzenegger would be in a brief scene in which John Connor (Christian Bale) encounters him as a "future Terminator," the governor said, adding, "I think it's cool to continue on with the franchise... in case I want to jump over again and get into the acting after I'm through here."
More from AintItCool.com -
"I think McG's Terminator is looking pretty good... that last trailer was fantastic and I hope all the trailers and bits of footage I've seen are indicative of the whole and we get a cool, fun kick-ass movie. Now, the fact that it's PG-13 doesn't float my boat. I this trend of taking - franchises and PG-13ing them... Die Hard, Predator, Alien, now Terminator.
But that said, if it's a good movie then it's a good movie, doesn't matter what the rating is. And I love the idea of computer technology being there to give 1984's Arnold Schwarzenegger a cameo here. I think it could be done to rather cool effect as a glimpse here, a nod of what's to come. As long as they don't winky-winky at the audience too much, we'll be fine. I'm far more concerned about this talk about giving Kyle Reese a reason for wearing his '80s Nikes (how about that's what he found when he time traveled back to 1984? Hrmm?) than giving Schwarzenegger some screen time.
Anyway, Arnold did a twitter Q&A with his followers (his account is @schwarzenegger) and was asked about his appearance in T:S. This is what he had to say, which gives a context for what his cameo would be if it indeed comes to pass.
Here's the Governor:
'Right now, they're looking at the technology and see if it is possible to create a technology where they can use my image in the film without me actually filming, because I made it clear I don't have the time... and if they shoot outside the state, I would not participate... But I would be willing to be in the movie if they get the technology together. We have a great relationship with the people making the movie.. McG is the director, he's a terrific talented guy. I'm going to be at the premiere, I told him I want to be as supportive as possible.
I think that within the next week or so, we will see if they are technologically able to do that. It's terrific because they basically take technology out of Terminator 1 and use that walk of mine, and somehow bring it in... it's just a brief scene, where we see one of the leads run into a room and he sees the future terminators because it's kind of a prequel... then he gets thrown around, then he goes in another room and there's other terminators, so there's supposed to be all these new terminators. I think it's cool to continue on with the franchise, and in case I want to jump over again and get into the acting when we're through here.'"
UPDATE:
From AintItCool.com:
"Variety now has all the answers for us, via a very brief article which explains McG & Arnold's unwillingness to comment too conclusively on the matter until now. In short - no one knew where or not adding a CGI Arnold into the movie could be pulled off convincingly, and only recently has Schwarzenegger given final consent for his likeness to be used. Meaning: he will be in the film. Turns out Schwarzenegger has been secretly working with helmer McG and the effects team to reprise his signature role ... without lifting a finger. A body-cast mold of Schwarzenegger, created when he first appeared as the muscle-ripped cyborg, provided the basis for a digital-effects version of his famous character. The figure appears in Terminator Salvation as a living, breathing actor. Schwarzenegger viewed the resulting footage and gave his go-ahead just in time for McG to include the footage before the helmer completes his cut of the movie. Warners first screens the pic in early May and opens it May 21."
Good to see Arnold back in theaters even though for a little while.
UPDATE #2: Saw the movie. It's really, really good!
for those of you wanting a sneak peek at Arnold in the new film - here's a TV Spot:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2320yqtkU-o
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Heaven Reimagined. Peter Jackson discovers THE LOVELY BONES
From ComingSoon.net
"Empire magazine and USA Today have released the first two shots from Peter Jackson's The Lovely Bones, coming to theaters on December 11th. Based on the critically acclaimed best-selling novel by Alice Sebold, the film centers on a young girl (Saoirse Ronan) who has been murdered and watches over her family (Mark Wahlberg, Rachel Weisz and Susan Sarandon) – and her killer (Stanley Tucci) – from heaven. She must weigh her desire for vengeance against her desire for her family to heal."
http://www.empireonline.com/gallery/image.asp?id=33340&caption=&gallery=2292
Hmm. Little bit different look from what we're used to seeing of Peter Jackson. Also, not how would I would picture heaven but then again, how would I know?
"Empire magazine and USA Today have released the first two shots from Peter Jackson's The Lovely Bones, coming to theaters on December 11th. Based on the critically acclaimed best-selling novel by Alice Sebold, the film centers on a young girl (Saoirse Ronan) who has been murdered and watches over her family (Mark Wahlberg, Rachel Weisz and Susan Sarandon) – and her killer (Stanley Tucci) – from heaven. She must weigh her desire for vengeance against her desire for her family to heal."
http://www.empireonline.com/gallery/image.asp?id=33340&caption=&gallery=2292
Hmm. Little bit different look from what we're used to seeing of Peter Jackson. Also, not how would I would picture heaven but then again, how would I know?
Cannes? Humbug. A CHRISTMAS CAROL premieres footage May 18
From ComingSoon.net:
"Christmas will come to the Croisette, when Jim Carrey, Colin Firth, director Robert Zemeckis, and producers Steve Starkey and Jack Rapke from Disney's A Christmas Carol kick off the holiday season early at the Cannes Film Festival on Monday, May 18. They will unveil the first look ever in 3-D of the classic Dickens tale as re-envisioned by director Robert Zemeckis. The event, located at the Carlton Intercontinental Hotel, will begin at approx. 11:30 a.m. with a photo opportunity, followed by a press conference and luncheon. Disney's A Christmas Carol, a multi-sensory thrill ride re-envisioned by Zemeckis, captures the fantastical essence of the classic Dickens tale in a groundbreaking 3-D motion picture event.
Ebenezer Scrooge (Carrey) begins the Christmas holiday with his usual miserly contempt, barking at his faithful clerk (Gary Oldman) and his cheery nephew (Firth). But when the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come take him on an eye-opening journey revealing truths Old Scrooge is reluctant to face, he must open his heart to undo years of ill will before it's too late.
Disney's A Christmas Carol opens in conventional and IMAX theaters on November 6, 2009."
Wish I could be there. I mean, Disney, Carrey, Zemeckis?! I've been dying for this movie!!
"Christmas will come to the Croisette, when Jim Carrey, Colin Firth, director Robert Zemeckis, and producers Steve Starkey and Jack Rapke from Disney's A Christmas Carol kick off the holiday season early at the Cannes Film Festival on Monday, May 18. They will unveil the first look ever in 3-D of the classic Dickens tale as re-envisioned by director Robert Zemeckis. The event, located at the Carlton Intercontinental Hotel, will begin at approx. 11:30 a.m. with a photo opportunity, followed by a press conference and luncheon. Disney's A Christmas Carol, a multi-sensory thrill ride re-envisioned by Zemeckis, captures the fantastical essence of the classic Dickens tale in a groundbreaking 3-D motion picture event.
Ebenezer Scrooge (Carrey) begins the Christmas holiday with his usual miserly contempt, barking at his faithful clerk (Gary Oldman) and his cheery nephew (Firth). But when the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come take him on an eye-opening journey revealing truths Old Scrooge is reluctant to face, he must open his heart to undo years of ill will before it's too late.
Disney's A Christmas Carol opens in conventional and IMAX theaters on November 6, 2009."
Wish I could be there. I mean, Disney, Carrey, Zemeckis?! I've been dying for this movie!!
TOY STORY 3 teaser description
From ComingSoon.net:
"Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture Group screened the teaser trailer for Toy Story 3 at the NAB Show in Las Vegas and Variety says the clip "shows Woody supervising the Toy Story characters as they improvise a sign for the pic, only to have Buzz upstage them all with a high-tech version."
Featuring the voices of Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack, Don Rickles, Wallace Shawn, Estelle Harris, John Ratzenberger, Ned Beatty, Jodi Benson and Michael Keaton, Pixar's third installment will hit theaters in Disney Digital 3D on June 18, 2010."
Sounds great! Love to see them all back together again.
"Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture Group screened the teaser trailer for Toy Story 3 at the NAB Show in Las Vegas and Variety says the clip "shows Woody supervising the Toy Story characters as they improvise a sign for the pic, only to have Buzz upstage them all with a high-tech version."
Featuring the voices of Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack, Don Rickles, Wallace Shawn, Estelle Harris, John Ratzenberger, Ned Beatty, Jodi Benson and Michael Keaton, Pixar's third installment will hit theaters in Disney Digital 3D on June 18, 2010."
Sounds great! Love to see them all back together again.
Ooo-De-Lally! Russell Crowe is ROBIN HOOD
From ComingSoon.net:
"USA Today has published the first photo of Russell Crowe in director Ridley Scott's Robin Hood. Opening in theaters on May 14, 2010, the Universal action-drama co-stars Cate Blanchett, Vanessa Redgrave, Mark Strong, Scott Grimes, Kevin Durand, Alan Doyle, Oscar Isaacs, Lea Seydoux and William Hurt.
Crowe plays Robin of Loxley in an origin story of Robin Hood that hews close to historical facts of the period. Abandoned as a child, he finds community with the common people of Nottingham. Robin's abandonment and trust issues hamper his ability to fall in love. He meets his match in Marian (Blanchett), a strong, independent woman."
Link to picture:
http://www.usatoday.com/life/movies/news/2009-04-19-robin-hood-first-look_N.htm?csp=34
First off, if you didn't get the title of the post - it's a song from the Disney Robin Hood. You know, the fox one? Yeah, that one.
Second, looks pretty cool.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Spielberg: "TRANSFORMERS 2 is awesome!"
From ComingSoon.net:
"Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen director Michael Bay says the film's executive producer, Steven Spielberg, thinks Bay's cut is "awesome" and that the new trailer will be released with X-Men Origins: Wolverine. Bay posted the following on his message board:
'Steven Spielberg sat next to me in a big 100 person theater at Sony today. There were 98 empty seats. The lights came up after we just watched my cut of Revenge of the Fallen. He turned to me and said, 'It's awesome'. He felt this movie was better then the first - and probably my best, who knows - at this point in a movie you start to lose your objectivity. I just hope the fans like it. I'm going to start putting it in front of audiences in a few weeks - no you are not invited, yet.
We have 60 days left. Let me tell you it will be a race to finish. It's 12 at night and we are still working here in the edit room. Everyone at ILM and DD are killing themselves right now, they are doing a stellar job on the effects. We also just finished our trailer which is coming out with Wolverine. Talk to you soon.'"
"In related Spielberg news..." actually, the Tintin picture came first. I'm going down ComingSoon's archives for things I've missed.
Besides, how can Spielberg be wrong? (Don't mention 1941)
First Behind-the-Scenes Image of THE ADVENTURES OF TINTIN: SECRET OF THE UNICORN
From ComingSoon.net:
"The folks at Empire magazine... have received a first look at Steven Spielberg, Peter Jackson, Jamie Bell (Tintin) and Andy Serkis (Captain Haddock) on the set of The Adventures of Tintin: Secret of the Unicorn.
Secret of the Unicorn is the first in the series of 3D motion capture films based on the iconic character created by Georges Remi, better known to the world by his pen name 'Herge' and is due for release in 2011. The film stars Bell as Tintin, the intrepid young reporter whose relentless pursuit of a good story thrusts him into a world of high adventure, and Daniel Craig as the nefarious Red Rackham. Bell and Craig are joined by an international cast that includes Serkis, Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Gad Elmaleh, Toby Jones and Mackenzie Crook. Spielberg directs while Jackson produces."
http://www.empireonline.com/gallery/image.asp?id=33325&caption=&gallery=2291
Not exactly what I was hoping for (actual picture from finished film) but still interesting enough. Never really seen Jackson and Spielberg together before in a picture but the proof's in the pudding.
"The folks at Empire magazine... have received a first look at Steven Spielberg, Peter Jackson, Jamie Bell (Tintin) and Andy Serkis (Captain Haddock) on the set of The Adventures of Tintin: Secret of the Unicorn.
Secret of the Unicorn is the first in the series of 3D motion capture films based on the iconic character created by Georges Remi, better known to the world by his pen name 'Herge' and is due for release in 2011. The film stars Bell as Tintin, the intrepid young reporter whose relentless pursuit of a good story thrusts him into a world of high adventure, and Daniel Craig as the nefarious Red Rackham. Bell and Craig are joined by an international cast that includes Serkis, Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Gad Elmaleh, Toby Jones and Mackenzie Crook. Spielberg directs while Jackson produces."
http://www.empireonline.com/gallery/image.asp?id=33325&caption=&gallery=2291
Not exactly what I was hoping for (actual picture from finished film) but still interesting enough. Never really seen Jackson and Spielberg together before in a picture but the proof's in the pudding.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Kristen Bell says, "YOU AGAIN"
From ComingSoon.net:
"Kristen Bell (Forgetting Sarah Marshall) has been cast as the lead in Disney's comedy You Again, to be directed by Andy Fickman, reports Variety.
Bell will play a girl who is horrified to find that her brother is marrying the very girl who made her life a living hell in high school.
The film starts shooting in the summer. Dave Johnson and Moe Jelline wrote the script."
I like the plot. It's Mean Girls meets Mr. Woodcock. Boy, there's a scary comparison.
"Kristen Bell (Forgetting Sarah Marshall) has been cast as the lead in Disney's comedy You Again, to be directed by Andy Fickman, reports Variety.
Bell will play a girl who is horrified to find that her brother is marrying the very girl who made her life a living hell in high school.
The film starts shooting in the summer. Dave Johnson and Moe Jelline wrote the script."
I like the plot. It's Mean Girls meets Mr. Woodcock. Boy, there's a scary comparison.
Chris Pine "Howlin' Mad" for THE A-TEAM
From TrekMovie.com:
"Chris Pine is making... casting buzz on another high profile project, this time the big screen version of The A-Team, being directed by Joe Carnahan (who directed Pine [in] Smokin’ Aces, a role which got the buzz train rolling for the young actor). The surprising thing for this project is that Pine isn’t angling to play the team leader Col. John Hannibal Smith, played by George Peppard on the classic 80s show, nor does he want to play Templeton ‘Faceman’ Peck (played by Dirk Benedict). No, Star Trek’s leading man tells MTV he wants to play H.M. ‘Howling Mad’ Murdock, a role originally played by Dwight Shultz."
I've seen pictures. Not that bad of a resemblance. This could work. Of course, I can't wait for an A-Team movie anyway, but if they're gonna do it right, they need to bring back Mr. T.
"Chris Pine is making... casting buzz on another high profile project, this time the big screen version of The A-Team, being directed by Joe Carnahan (who directed Pine [in] Smokin’ Aces, a role which got the buzz train rolling for the young actor). The surprising thing for this project is that Pine isn’t angling to play the team leader Col. John Hannibal Smith, played by George Peppard on the classic 80s show, nor does he want to play Templeton ‘Faceman’ Peck (played by Dirk Benedict). No, Star Trek’s leading man tells MTV he wants to play H.M. ‘Howling Mad’ Murdock, a role originally played by Dwight Shultz."
I've seen pictures. Not that bad of a resemblance. This could work. Of course, I can't wait for an A-Team movie anyway, but if they're gonna do it right, they need to bring back Mr. T.
Jim Carrey already preparing for THE THREE STOOGES
From JimCarreyOnline.com:
"Regarding the movie The Three Stooges, Jenny [McCarthy, his girlfriend] told Ellen [DeGeneres, host of Ellen] that Jim is still in negotiations and already practicing for the role to play Curly. He is enjoying his desserts to gain weight. He have to gain up to 50 pounds and shave his head. Jenny said that she had no idea what it's going to be like when he hits near 300 pounds! He is very committed and devoted towards his work and walks around in the house doing Curly 'Nyuk Nyuk Nyuk' (swinging her arms). She joked that you have to be very much in love with him to be turned on like this and she loves him to pieces."
I shudder to think of what he'll look like when he starts promoting A Christmas Carol. Dang, dude. "BRING ON THE BROWNIES"!
But I jest. He's my second-favorite actor next to Johnny Depp.
"Regarding the movie The Three Stooges, Jenny [McCarthy, his girlfriend] told Ellen [DeGeneres, host of Ellen] that Jim is still in negotiations and already practicing for the role to play Curly. He is enjoying his desserts to gain weight. He have to gain up to 50 pounds and shave his head. Jenny said that she had no idea what it's going to be like when he hits near 300 pounds! He is very committed and devoted towards his work and walks around in the house doing Curly 'Nyuk Nyuk Nyuk' (swinging her arms). She joked that you have to be very much in love with him to be turned on like this and she loves him to pieces."
I shudder to think of what he'll look like when he starts promoting A Christmas Carol. Dang, dude. "BRING ON THE BROWNIES"!
But I jest. He's my second-favorite actor next to Johnny Depp.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Zac Efron is JONNY QUEST officially... or is he?
From ComingSoon.net:
"After months of rumors, it's finally been confirmed that High School Musical star Zac Efron has signed on to play the title role in Warner Bros.' planned live-action version of the popular '60s Hanna-Barbera cartoon show Jonny Quest.
L.A. Times' "Hero Complex" got the confirmation but mentions that Warner Bros. have been considering changing the name of the property to avoid the inevitably negative comparisons to Warner Bros.' flop Speed Racer, another live action movie based on a popular cartoon.
There's no word on who might be directing although previous rumors have pegged the team of Andy Fickman and Dwayne Johnson possibly reuniting for the third time after the recent Race to Mountain."
Okay, if you ask me, Jonny Quest is already falling into the same trap that Speed Racer did - DO NOT MAKE YOUR CHARACTERS OLDER THAN THEY ARE IN THE CARTOONS! Why do you think kids couldn't relate to Speed, Trixie and Spritle?!
And changing the name? Who wants to go see a movie based on a cartoon that they don't know is based on a cartoon?
BTW, I say Willem Dafoe for Dr. Benton Quest
UPDATE: http://www.imdb.com/video/hulu/vi1432224537/
Zac Efron tells High School Musical fans to get a life on Saturday Night Live
Looks like he does have a future outside of musicals.
"After months of rumors, it's finally been confirmed that High School Musical star Zac Efron has signed on to play the title role in Warner Bros.' planned live-action version of the popular '60s Hanna-Barbera cartoon show Jonny Quest.
L.A. Times' "Hero Complex" got the confirmation but mentions that Warner Bros. have been considering changing the name of the property to avoid the inevitably negative comparisons to Warner Bros.' flop Speed Racer, another live action movie based on a popular cartoon.
There's no word on who might be directing although previous rumors have pegged the team of Andy Fickman and Dwayne Johnson possibly reuniting for the third time after the recent Race to Mountain."
Okay, if you ask me, Jonny Quest is already falling into the same trap that Speed Racer did - DO NOT MAKE YOUR CHARACTERS OLDER THAN THEY ARE IN THE CARTOONS! Why do you think kids couldn't relate to Speed, Trixie and Spritle?!
And changing the name? Who wants to go see a movie based on a cartoon that they don't know is based on a cartoon?
BTW, I say Willem Dafoe for Dr. Benton Quest
UPDATE: http://www.imdb.com/video/hulu/vi1432224537/
Zac Efron tells High School Musical fans to get a life on Saturday Night Live
Looks like he does have a future outside of musicals.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
TRANSFORMERS 2 Robots Revealed -- New Pictures
From Ropes of Silicon -
SPOILERS
"I was wondering when the robot concept art for Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen would surface and I have to wonder no more as a Flickr account has revealed 25 images of nine of the sequel’s robots including Fallen, Megatron, Ravage, Starscream, Skids & Mudflap, Devastator, Sideswipe, Ironhide and Ratchet."
http://www.ropeofsilicon.com/article/concept-art-of-nine-of-the-robots-from-transformers-revenge-of-the-fallen
Fallen looks really cool. I really do hope that Leonard Nimoy comes in to do the voice.
Megatron looks sorta different but has the same claw that traps Sam in the teaser....
Ravage looks like Bubastis from Watchmen, but more mechanical and one-eyed. The dentist would have to wear a suit of armor though.
Starscream is a vast improvement from the first film. His role in that film was mostly "wait, was that Starscream or-- who cares?"
The Twins, Skids & Mudflap, probably will end up as what Bumblebee was in the first film.
DEVASTATOR. OH. MY. GOSH. FREAKIN' DEVASTATOR. THE COOLEST-LOOKING TRANSFORMER I'VE SEEN YET. Played by - Scavenger, Scrapper, Hightower, Longhaul, Rampage, Overload and Mixmaster.
Sideswipe, kinda cool looking, but his wheels look too big to fit on a normal car.
One word about Ironhide - don't let your chihuahua pee on him this time.
Ratchet looks more human looking I think. I don't know I can kinda picture him wearing gigantic scrubs.
SPOILERS
"I was wondering when the robot concept art for Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen would surface and I have to wonder no more as a Flickr account has revealed 25 images of nine of the sequel’s robots including Fallen, Megatron, Ravage, Starscream, Skids & Mudflap, Devastator, Sideswipe, Ironhide and Ratchet."
http://www.ropeofsilicon.com/article/concept-art-of-nine-of-the-robots-from-transformers-revenge-of-the-fallen
Fallen looks really cool. I really do hope that Leonard Nimoy comes in to do the voice.
Megatron looks sorta different but has the same claw that traps Sam in the teaser....
Ravage looks like Bubastis from Watchmen, but more mechanical and one-eyed. The dentist would have to wear a suit of armor though.
Starscream is a vast improvement from the first film. His role in that film was mostly "wait, was that Starscream or-- who cares?"
The Twins, Skids & Mudflap, probably will end up as what Bumblebee was in the first film.
DEVASTATOR. OH. MY. GOSH. FREAKIN' DEVASTATOR. THE COOLEST-LOOKING TRANSFORMER I'VE SEEN YET. Played by - Scavenger, Scrapper, Hightower, Longhaul, Rampage, Overload and Mixmaster.
Sideswipe, kinda cool looking, but his wheels look too big to fit on a normal car.
One word about Ironhide - don't let your chihuahua pee on him this time.
Ratchet looks more human looking I think. I don't know I can kinda picture him wearing gigantic scrubs.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Lights, Camera, Shields Up! STAR TREK beams into Austin, Texas!
From IMDB.com:
"Star Trek superfans in Austin, Texas were treated to a surprise sneak peek of J.J. Abrams' sci-fi summer blockbuster on Monday night when the film was switched with a screening of 1982 sequel The Wrath Of Khan. Sci-fi fans packed the Alamo Draft House to see the Star Trek classic and were left stunned when they realised they were actually watching the first public screening of Star Trek, which doesn't open in cinemas until May 8th. According to EW.com, Trek veteran Leonard Nimoy and producer Damon Lindelhof came up with the idea of the Wrath of Khan hoax in a bid to created Internet interest in the upcoming blockbuster. Austin-based Harry Knowles, who runs movie spoiler website AintItCoolNews.com, reports the screening concluded with a standing ovation that lasted five minutes. He writes, 'After the film, the audience was a collective smile, some crying they were so happy.' Online reviews posted after the surprise screening call the new film 'amazing' and 'new and fresh, but it doesn’t forget its roots,' while Twitter.com fans who saw the film posted review comments like, 'Just saw the new Star Trek movie and it melted my pants!!!!!'"
And here are the links to the AintItCool.com news - SPOILERS though -
http://www.aintitcool.com/node/40683
http://www.aintitcool.com/node/40675
The second one is the most explanatory about what actually happened at the Austin, Texas theater.
Only Nimoy could win more hearts of more new fans by giving them the unofficial premiere.
"Star Trek superfans in Austin, Texas were treated to a surprise sneak peek of J.J. Abrams' sci-fi summer blockbuster on Monday night when the film was switched with a screening of 1982 sequel The Wrath Of Khan. Sci-fi fans packed the Alamo Draft House to see the Star Trek classic and were left stunned when they realised they were actually watching the first public screening of Star Trek, which doesn't open in cinemas until May 8th. According to EW.com, Trek veteran Leonard Nimoy and producer Damon Lindelhof came up with the idea of the Wrath of Khan hoax in a bid to created Internet interest in the upcoming blockbuster. Austin-based Harry Knowles, who runs movie spoiler website AintItCoolNews.com, reports the screening concluded with a standing ovation that lasted five minutes. He writes, 'After the film, the audience was a collective smile, some crying they were so happy.' Online reviews posted after the surprise screening call the new film 'amazing' and 'new and fresh, but it doesn’t forget its roots,' while Twitter.com fans who saw the film posted review comments like, 'Just saw the new Star Trek movie and it melted my pants!!!!!'"
And here are the links to the AintItCool.com news - SPOILERS though -
http://www.aintitcool.com/node/40683
http://www.aintitcool.com/node/40675
The second one is the most explanatory about what actually happened at the Austin, Texas theater.
Only Nimoy could win more hearts of more new fans by giving them the unofficial premiere.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Show Me the Tails! RED TAILS is cast.
From IMDB.com:
"Terrence Howard (Hustle & Flow, Iron Man), Cuba Gooding Jr. (Jerry Maguire, Radio) and Bryan Cranston (TV's Breaking Bad) are the latest stars to join the cast of George Lucas' new war film. The trio join an ensemble including hip-hop star Method Man and singers Ne-Yo and Jazmine Sullivan for Red Tails, a World War II action-adventure about the Tuskegee Airmen - America's first black military pilots. Actors Nate Parker, David Oyelowo, Tristan Wilds, Lee Tergesen, Elijah Kelley, Andre Royo and Jesse Williams will also star in the movie, reports Variety. Star Wars guru Lucas, who co-created the film, will also serve as executive producer. Anthony Hemingway will direct. Filming is scheduled to begin in Europe later this month."
Anything new from George Lucas is cool with me. And it's pretty cool that now he's doing a true-story war film.
"Terrence Howard (Hustle & Flow, Iron Man), Cuba Gooding Jr. (Jerry Maguire, Radio) and Bryan Cranston (TV's Breaking Bad) are the latest stars to join the cast of George Lucas' new war film. The trio join an ensemble including hip-hop star Method Man and singers Ne-Yo and Jazmine Sullivan for Red Tails, a World War II action-adventure about the Tuskegee Airmen - America's first black military pilots. Actors Nate Parker, David Oyelowo, Tristan Wilds, Lee Tergesen, Elijah Kelley, Andre Royo and Jesse Williams will also star in the movie, reports Variety. Star Wars guru Lucas, who co-created the film, will also serve as executive producer. Anthony Hemingway will direct. Filming is scheduled to begin in Europe later this month."
Anything new from George Lucas is cool with me. And it's pretty cool that now he's doing a true-story war film.
From White Castle to White House?
From IMDB.com:
"American actor/producer Kal Penn has left hit TV show House to work for U.S. President Barack Obama. The 31-year-old actor has accepted a position as the associate director in the White House's Office of Public Liaison & Intergovernmental Affairs.
Penn - also known for his role in stoner comedies Harold & Kumar Go To White Castle and Harold & Kumar Escape From Guantanamo Bay - was written out of the TV drama in an episode that aired in the U.S. on Monday. And he's preparing to leave acting behind for good even though the salary for the government job is far less than the money he makes from his career on screen.
He tells Entertainment Weekly, "(The Office of Public Liaison & Intergovernmental Affairs) do outreach with the American public and with different organisations. They're basically the front door of the White House. They take out all of the red tape that falls between the general public and the White House. "I love what I do as an actor. I couldn't love it more. But probably from the time I was a kid, I really enjoyed that balance between the arts and public service. I thought this might be the right time to go off and do something else. "There's not a lot of financial reward in these jobs. Obviously, the opportunity to serve in a capacity like this is an incredible honor."
Penn is currently working on a graduate certificate in international security from California's prestigious Stanford University. He also campaigned for Obama last year as a member of his National Arts Policy Committee."
Huh. More celebrities becoming politicians. But wait, now who did one of Kal Penn's characters used to work for? Hmm...oh, yeah. LEX LUTHOR in Superman Returns.
Anyhow, more power to him.
"American actor/producer Kal Penn has left hit TV show House to work for U.S. President Barack Obama. The 31-year-old actor has accepted a position as the associate director in the White House's Office of Public Liaison & Intergovernmental Affairs.
Penn - also known for his role in stoner comedies Harold & Kumar Go To White Castle and Harold & Kumar Escape From Guantanamo Bay - was written out of the TV drama in an episode that aired in the U.S. on Monday. And he's preparing to leave acting behind for good even though the salary for the government job is far less than the money he makes from his career on screen.
He tells Entertainment Weekly, "(The Office of Public Liaison & Intergovernmental Affairs) do outreach with the American public and with different organisations. They're basically the front door of the White House. They take out all of the red tape that falls between the general public and the White House. "I love what I do as an actor. I couldn't love it more. But probably from the time I was a kid, I really enjoyed that balance between the arts and public service. I thought this might be the right time to go off and do something else. "There's not a lot of financial reward in these jobs. Obviously, the opportunity to serve in a capacity like this is an incredible honor."
Penn is currently working on a graduate certificate in international security from California's prestigious Stanford University. He also campaigned for Obama last year as a member of his National Arts Policy Committee."
Huh. More celebrities becoming politicians. But wait, now who did one of Kal Penn's characters used to work for? Hmm...oh, yeah. LEX LUTHOR in Superman Returns.
Anyhow, more power to him.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
New TRANSFORMERS 2 Robot Details & Photos Revealed
From ComingSoon.net:
"Yahoo! Movies and USA Today have premiered a list of the robots in Michael Bay's Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, as well as debuted new photos and more details on Ravage and Soundwave. We've also received new photos as well, all of which you can view below!
Opening in conventional and IMAX theaters on June 24, the sequel stars Shia LaBeouf, Megan Fox, Josh Duhamel, Tyrese Gibson, Kevin Dunn, Julie White, John Benjamin Hickey, Ramon Rodriguez, Isabel Luca and John Turturro."
THE ROBOTS' NAMES ARE -
ON THE AUTOBOT SIDE: Optimus Prime, Ironhide, Ratchet, Bumblebee, Sideswipe, Arcee, Jetfire, Jolt, Skids & Mudflap (The Twins)
ON THE DECEPTICON SIDE: Starscream, Sideways, The Fallen, Scorponok, Soundwave, Ravage, The Doctor, Wheelie, Demolisher, Devastator = Scavenger + Scrapper + Hightower + Longhaul + Rampage + Overload + Mixmaster
This looks really, really good. And Bay's smart - keeping Megatron off the list. Can't wait to see how they do Arcee; hope they bring back Susan Blu.
But what's this? Wheelie on the Decepticon side? Whatever happened to The Transformers: The Movie?
"Yahoo! Movies and USA Today have premiered a list of the robots in Michael Bay's Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, as well as debuted new photos and more details on Ravage and Soundwave. We've also received new photos as well, all of which you can view below!
Opening in conventional and IMAX theaters on June 24, the sequel stars Shia LaBeouf, Megan Fox, Josh Duhamel, Tyrese Gibson, Kevin Dunn, Julie White, John Benjamin Hickey, Ramon Rodriguez, Isabel Luca and John Turturro."
THE ROBOTS' NAMES ARE -
ON THE AUTOBOT SIDE: Optimus Prime, Ironhide, Ratchet, Bumblebee, Sideswipe, Arcee, Jetfire, Jolt, Skids & Mudflap (The Twins)
ON THE DECEPTICON SIDE: Starscream, Sideways, The Fallen, Scorponok, Soundwave, Ravage, The Doctor, Wheelie, Demolisher, Devastator = Scavenger + Scrapper + Hightower + Longhaul + Rampage + Overload + Mixmaster
This looks really, really good. And Bay's smart - keeping Megatron off the list. Can't wait to see how they do Arcee; hope they bring back Susan Blu.
But what's this? Wheelie on the Decepticon side? Whatever happened to The Transformers: The Movie?
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