Ask any independent producer and they’ll tell you: making movies is a piece of cake. Scouring the Earth for viable, quality material? Wrangling, gracefully, volatile talent egos? Raising stupid amounts of capital and wearily securing every stray element of physical production? Delegating responsibility, absorbing crew complaints and mallet-flattening nonstop whack-a-mole near-disasters? Shrewdly navigating distribution in a broken marketplace and finally—if you’re very lucky!—appropriately proportioning revenue shares under perpetual threat of litigation for the duration of your fleeting mortal existence? Like we said. Easy.
Just kidding. This is some of the hardest goddamn shit you’ll ever try to do. But for 30 years Film Independent has been doing all it can to support filmmakers across every discipline and career level. In theory, of course, producers are everyone else’s best resource—the adult in the room solving problems and providing steady leadership. But who watches the watchmen produces the producers?...
Just kidding. This is some of the hardest goddamn shit you’ll ever try to do. But for 30 years Film Independent has been doing all it can to support filmmakers across every discipline and career level. In theory, of course, producers are everyone else’s best resource—the adult in the room solving problems and providing steady leadership. But who watches the watchmen produces the producers?...
- 3/20/2024
- by Matt Warren
- Film Independent News & More
Exclusive: Christine Otal has been named Senior Vice President, Production & Development at Macro Film Studios, the company’s President James Lopez has announced.
Otal joins from J.J. Abrams’ Bad Robot Productions, where she served as Senior Vice President of Film. During her time there, she worked on titles including Star Trek IV, a live-action remake of acclaimed anime Your Name at Paramount, Jason Bateman’s The Pinkerton at Warner Bros, an adaptation of Melissa Fleming’s book A Hope More Powerful than the Sea with Paramount and Amblin, and an adaptation of the video game Portal.
The L.A.-based executive previously served as Vice President of Development and Production at Millennium Films, there exec producing The Hitman’s Bodyguard starring Ryan Reynolds and Samuel L. Jackson, London Has Fallen starring Gerard Butler and Morgan Freeman, Hunter Killer starring Butler and Gary Oldman, and Criminal starring Kevin Costner and Tommy Lee Jones.
Otal joins from J.J. Abrams’ Bad Robot Productions, where she served as Senior Vice President of Film. During her time there, she worked on titles including Star Trek IV, a live-action remake of acclaimed anime Your Name at Paramount, Jason Bateman’s The Pinkerton at Warner Bros, an adaptation of Melissa Fleming’s book A Hope More Powerful than the Sea with Paramount and Amblin, and an adaptation of the video game Portal.
The L.A.-based executive previously served as Vice President of Development and Production at Millennium Films, there exec producing The Hitman’s Bodyguard starring Ryan Reynolds and Samuel L. Jackson, London Has Fallen starring Gerard Butler and Morgan Freeman, Hunter Killer starring Butler and Gary Oldman, and Criminal starring Kevin Costner and Tommy Lee Jones.
- 12/11/2023
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Mubi has revealed the first look of “Bring Them Down,” starring Golden Globe nominee Christopher Abbott (“Catch-22”) and BAFTA winner and Oscar nominee Barry Keoghan (“The Banshees of Inisherin”).
The casting of Abbott and Keoghan replaces the previously announced cast of Tom Burke and Paul Mescal.
Principal photography is in its final stages in Ireland on the production, which is the feature directorial debut of Chris Andrews, following his award-winning short films “Stalker” (2019) and “Fire” (2015).
The film also stars Colm Meaney (“Gangs of London”), Nora-Jane Noone (“Wildfire”) Paul Ready (“Motherland”), and Susan Lynch (“Happy Valley”).
It follows Michael (Abbott), the last son of a shepherding family who lives with his ailing father, Ray (Meaney). Burdened by a terrible secret, Michael has isolated himself from the world. When a conflict with rival farmer Gary (Ready) and his son Jack (Keoghan) escalates, Michael is drawn into a devastating chain of events, forcing...
The casting of Abbott and Keoghan replaces the previously announced cast of Tom Burke and Paul Mescal.
Principal photography is in its final stages in Ireland on the production, which is the feature directorial debut of Chris Andrews, following his award-winning short films “Stalker” (2019) and “Fire” (2015).
The film also stars Colm Meaney (“Gangs of London”), Nora-Jane Noone (“Wildfire”) Paul Ready (“Motherland”), and Susan Lynch (“Happy Valley”).
It follows Michael (Abbott), the last son of a shepherding family who lives with his ailing father, Ray (Meaney). Burdened by a terrible secret, Michael has isolated himself from the world. When a conflict with rival farmer Gary (Ready) and his son Jack (Keoghan) escalates, Michael is drawn into a devastating chain of events, forcing...
- 2/23/2023
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
A simple listing, duplicated from the dvd/blu/vod US and Canada page, of new releases and other stuff currently available, for the benefit of those playing along by RSS or keeping up via the Weekly Digest emails (sign up here).
The most up-to-date version of this listing is always here.
new from Sep 06–08
Mrs Harris Goes to Paris (premium VOD/DVD) Beast (premium VOD)
I’m planning to watch…
Marcel the Shell with Shoes On (premium VOD) Pinocchio (Disney+) Thor: Love and Thunder (premium VOD/Disney+) Where the Crawdads Sing (premium VOD)
(films on regular VOD and/or DVD unless otherwise noted)
Stop endlessly scrolling Netflix, Amazon, and other VOD services! Get the Weekend Watchlist newsletter in your in-box every Friday with the best new films and hidden gems to stream. Only for paid Patreon and Substack subscribers.
recent releases
Ali & Ava The Bad Guys The Batman Belfast (VOD...
The most up-to-date version of this listing is always here.
new from Sep 06–08
Mrs Harris Goes to Paris (premium VOD/DVD) Beast (premium VOD)
I’m planning to watch…
Marcel the Shell with Shoes On (premium VOD) Pinocchio (Disney+) Thor: Love and Thunder (premium VOD/Disney+) Where the Crawdads Sing (premium VOD)
(films on regular VOD and/or DVD unless otherwise noted)
Stop endlessly scrolling Netflix, Amazon, and other VOD services! Get the Weekend Watchlist newsletter in your in-box every Friday with the best new films and hidden gems to stream. Only for paid Patreon and Substack subscribers.
recent releases
Ali & Ava The Bad Guys The Batman Belfast (VOD...
- 9/11/2022
- by MaryAnn Johanson
- www.flickfilosopher.com
A simple listing, duplicated from the dvd/blu/vod US and Canada page, of new releases and other stuff currently available, for the benefit of those playing along by RSS or keeping up via the Weekly Digest emails (sign up here).
The most up-to-date version of this listing is always here.
new from Aug 30–Sep 02
Brian and Charles Elvis (premium VOD/HBO Max)
I’m planning to watch…
American Carnage Blind Ambition (premium VOD) Burial Minions: The Rise of Gru (DVD/premium VOD) The Phantom of the Open
(films on regular VOD and/or DVD unless otherwise noted)
Stop endlessly scrolling Netflix, Amazon, and other VOD services! Get the Weekend Watchlist newsletter in your in-box every Friday with the best new films and hidden gems to stream. Only for paid Patreon and Substack subscribers.
recent releases
Ali & Ava The Bad Guys The Batman Belfast (VOD/HBO Max) Benedetta The Book...
The most up-to-date version of this listing is always here.
new from Aug 30–Sep 02
Brian and Charles Elvis (premium VOD/HBO Max)
I’m planning to watch…
American Carnage Blind Ambition (premium VOD) Burial Minions: The Rise of Gru (DVD/premium VOD) The Phantom of the Open
(films on regular VOD and/or DVD unless otherwise noted)
Stop endlessly scrolling Netflix, Amazon, and other VOD services! Get the Weekend Watchlist newsletter in your in-box every Friday with the best new films and hidden gems to stream. Only for paid Patreon and Substack subscribers.
recent releases
Ali & Ava The Bad Guys The Batman Belfast (VOD/HBO Max) Benedetta The Book...
- 9/4/2022
- by MaryAnn Johanson
- www.flickfilosopher.com
A simple listing, duplicated from the dvd/blu/vod US and Canada page, of new releases and other stuff currently available, for the benefit of those playing along by RSS or keeping up via the Weekly Digest emails (sign up here).
The most up-to-date version of this listing is always here.
new from Aug 16–19
Eiffel (cable VOD) Orphan: First Kill (premium VOD/Paramount+) Radium Girls The Immaculate Room Jurassic World Dominion (DVD/premium VOD) Spin Me Round (VOD/AMC+)
I’m planning to watch…
The Black Phone (DVD/premium VOD) Paris, 13th District The Phantom of the Open (premium VOD)
(films on regular VOD and/or DVD unless otherwise noted)
Stop endlessly scrolling Netflix, Amazon, and other VOD services! Get the Weekend Watchlist newsletter in your in-box every Friday with the best new films and hidden gems to stream. Only for paid Patreon and Substack subscribers.
recent releases
The Bad...
The most up-to-date version of this listing is always here.
new from Aug 16–19
Eiffel (cable VOD) Orphan: First Kill (premium VOD/Paramount+) Radium Girls The Immaculate Room Jurassic World Dominion (DVD/premium VOD) Spin Me Round (VOD/AMC+)
I’m planning to watch…
The Black Phone (DVD/premium VOD) Paris, 13th District The Phantom of the Open (premium VOD)
(films on regular VOD and/or DVD unless otherwise noted)
Stop endlessly scrolling Netflix, Amazon, and other VOD services! Get the Weekend Watchlist newsletter in your in-box every Friday with the best new films and hidden gems to stream. Only for paid Patreon and Substack subscribers.
recent releases
The Bad...
- 8/21/2022
- by MaryAnn Johanson
- www.flickfilosopher.com
Exclusive: Ryan Phillippe (The Locksmith) has signed on for a key role opposite Bella Thorne in Mitzi Peirone’s thriller Saint Clare, based on Don Roff’s hit novel Clare at 16. Rebecca De Mornay (Lucifer), Frank Whaley (Pulp Fiction), Bart Johnson (High School Musical) and Dylan Flashner (The Card Counter) will co-star in the film, which Screen Media has slated for release in North American theaters in 2023.
Saint Clare follows Clare Bleecker (Thorne), a quiet catholic college student with a divine vocation for killing. Phillippe will play the role of Timmons, a police officer investigating the latest murder in the small town, with Clare as his prime suspect. Whaley will portray Mailman Bob, a ghost from Clare’s past, with Johnson pulling double duty as twin brothers Joe and Randall, and Flashner set for the supporting role of Wade.
Peirone scripted the indie with American Psycho‘s Guinevere Turner. David Chackler,...
Saint Clare follows Clare Bleecker (Thorne), a quiet catholic college student with a divine vocation for killing. Phillippe will play the role of Timmons, a police officer investigating the latest murder in the small town, with Clare as his prime suspect. Whaley will portray Mailman Bob, a ghost from Clare’s past, with Johnson pulling double duty as twin brothers Joe and Randall, and Flashner set for the supporting role of Wade.
Peirone scripted the indie with American Psycho‘s Guinevere Turner. David Chackler,...
- 8/9/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
First published June 18th, 2022, on Substack and Patreon.
Don’t spend hours scrolling the menus at Netflix, Prime Video, and other movie services. I point you to the best new films and hidden gems to stream.
Movies included here may be available on services other than those mentioned, and in other regions, too. JustWatch and Reelgood are great for finding which films are on what streamers; you can customize each site so that it shows you only those services you have access to.
When you rent or purchase a film through the Prime Video and Apple links here, I get a small affiliate fee that helps support my work. Please use them if you can! (Affiliate fees do not increase your cost.)
both sides of the pond
Pride Month continues! A wonderful way to commemorate the not-yet-completed, very-much-ongoing battle for dignity and respect for all the downtrodden, oppressed, and marginalized...
Don’t spend hours scrolling the menus at Netflix, Prime Video, and other movie services. I point you to the best new films and hidden gems to stream.
Movies included here may be available on services other than those mentioned, and in other regions, too. JustWatch and Reelgood are great for finding which films are on what streamers; you can customize each site so that it shows you only those services you have access to.
When you rent or purchase a film through the Prime Video and Apple links here, I get a small affiliate fee that helps support my work. Please use them if you can! (Affiliate fees do not increase your cost.)
both sides of the pond
Pride Month continues! A wonderful way to commemorate the not-yet-completed, very-much-ongoing battle for dignity and respect for all the downtrodden, oppressed, and marginalized...
- 7/17/2022
- by MaryAnn Johanson
- www.flickfilosopher.com
Exclusive: Tyler Dean Flores (The Falcon and the Winter Soldier), Imani Lewis (First Kill), Christian Vunipola (Queenpins), Suraj Partha (Modern Family) and Raúl Castillo (Cha Cha Real Smooth) will star in Miguel Wants to Fight, a coming-of-age comedy that American High is producing for Hulu, which has entered production.
The film centers on Miguel (Flores), a 17-year-old who asks his three best friends to help him get in his first fight ever before he moves to a new city. It stems from Hulu’s partnership with American High, which has also seen the release of titles including Big Time Adolescence, Plan B, Crush and The Binge.
Emmy winner Oz Rodriguez (Kenan) is directing from a script by Jason Concepcion and Shea Serrano.
The film centers on Miguel (Flores), a 17-year-old who asks his three best friends to help him get in his first fight ever before he moves to a new city. It stems from Hulu’s partnership with American High, which has also seen the release of titles including Big Time Adolescence, Plan B, Crush and The Binge.
Emmy winner Oz Rodriguez (Kenan) is directing from a script by Jason Concepcion and Shea Serrano.
- 5/23/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
The “Washington Black” series at Hulu has cast Billy Boyd, Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine, and Julian Rhind-Tutt in recurring roles, Variety has learned exclusively.
“Washington Black” is adapted from Esi Edugyan’s novel of the same name. The nine-episode series is set in the 19th century and follows Washington “Wash” Black (Ernest Kingsley Jr.) as he flees from a Barbados sugar plantation after a shocking death threatens to upend his life. He becomes the protégé of Medwin Harris (Sterling K. Brown), a Black refugee from Nova Scotia who serves as the de facto major of Black Halifax. While trying to outrun his past and the hunters on his tail, he meets Tanna (Lola Evans), a young wealthy British woman who passed as white but was secretly born of a Melanesian mother on the Solomon Islands, forcing her and her father to flee London for Nova Scotia. Tanna’s father pushes...
“Washington Black” is adapted from Esi Edugyan’s novel of the same name. The nine-episode series is set in the 19th century and follows Washington “Wash” Black (Ernest Kingsley Jr.) as he flees from a Barbados sugar plantation after a shocking death threatens to upend his life. He becomes the protégé of Medwin Harris (Sterling K. Brown), a Black refugee from Nova Scotia who serves as the de facto major of Black Halifax. While trying to outrun his past and the hunters on his tail, he meets Tanna (Lola Evans), a young wealthy British woman who passed as white but was secretly born of a Melanesian mother on the Solomon Islands, forcing her and her father to flee London for Nova Scotia. Tanna’s father pushes...
- 5/17/2022
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Wavelength, the production company behind such films as Won’t You Be My Neighbor? and Farewell Amor, has revealed the 2022 recipients of its Wave Grant. Ana Verde, Hannah Patterson, Amy Omar, Andrea Riba & Sofia Riba, and Justine Chen each will receive $5,000 to create their first short film alongside production mentorship from Wavelength’s executive team.
The Wave Grant, which stands for “Women at the Very Edge,” aims to help a first-time female or non-binary filmmaker of color with the production of their first short documentary or narrative film (under 30 minutes). In addition to the $5,000 grant, Wavelength will provide mentorship in the producing, development and post-production of the filmmaker’s story as well as fundraising and distribution strategy.
Read the bio for the third annual Wave grantees below.
“We are honored to expand our Wave Grant to include five recipients this year,” said Jenifer Westphal, founder, CEO and executive producer at Wavelength.
The Wave Grant, which stands for “Women at the Very Edge,” aims to help a first-time female or non-binary filmmaker of color with the production of their first short documentary or narrative film (under 30 minutes). In addition to the $5,000 grant, Wavelength will provide mentorship in the producing, development and post-production of the filmmaker’s story as well as fundraising and distribution strategy.
Read the bio for the third annual Wave grantees below.
“We are honored to expand our Wave Grant to include five recipients this year,” said Jenifer Westphal, founder, CEO and executive producer at Wavelength.
- 3/17/2022
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
The summer is known for big studio blockbusters, but for many fans of The Criterion Collection, releases are in store for something special in June as they’ve announced six additions are coming in glorious 4K Uhd.
Criterion presents a group of films that includes Joachim Trier’s charming Oscar contender, “The Worst Person in the World”; Hong Kong master Stanley Kwan’s romantic ghost story, “Rouge”; Ekwa Msangi’s remarkable debut feature debut, “Farewell Amor”; and “Shaft,” the blaxploitation action-hero classic from Gordon Parks that helped launched serious black-led action films, now on 4K Uhd.
Continue reading Criterion Adds ‘Shaft,’ ‘Pink Flamingos,’ ‘Worst Person In The World’ & More Titles In June at The Playlist.
Criterion presents a group of films that includes Joachim Trier’s charming Oscar contender, “The Worst Person in the World”; Hong Kong master Stanley Kwan’s romantic ghost story, “Rouge”; Ekwa Msangi’s remarkable debut feature debut, “Farewell Amor”; and “Shaft,” the blaxploitation action-hero classic from Gordon Parks that helped launched serious black-led action films, now on 4K Uhd.
Continue reading Criterion Adds ‘Shaft,’ ‘Pink Flamingos,’ ‘Worst Person In The World’ & More Titles In June at The Playlist.
- 3/17/2022
- by Christopher Marc
- The Playlist
The hugely anticipated The Batman, from Warner Bros. Pictures, stars Robert Pattinson in the dual role of Bruce Wayne and The Batman as the young vigilante is faced with a mystery to solve and faced with such iconic Gotham characters as Selina Kyle, The Riddler and The Penguin. From filmmaker Matt Reeves. Opening only in theaters on March 4th.
Add your name and email address in our comments section below to enter for a chance to win a Fandango Code from Warner Bros. Pictures inspired by The Batman. 5 lucky readers will each be awarded one code (good for $35) to see The Batman once it opens March 4th.
The Batman | Official Movie Site
From Warner Bros. Pictures comes Matt Reeves’ “The Batman,” starring Robert Pattinson in the dual role of Gotham City’s vigilante detective and his alter ego, reclusive billionaire Bruce Wayne. Starring alongside Pattinson as Gotham’s famous and...
Add your name and email address in our comments section below to enter for a chance to win a Fandango Code from Warner Bros. Pictures inspired by The Batman. 5 lucky readers will each be awarded one code (good for $35) to see The Batman once it opens March 4th.
The Batman | Official Movie Site
From Warner Bros. Pictures comes Matt Reeves’ “The Batman,” starring Robert Pattinson in the dual role of Gotham City’s vigilante detective and his alter ego, reclusive billionaire Bruce Wayne. Starring alongside Pattinson as Gotham’s famous and...
- 3/1/2022
- by Movie Geeks
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
See The Batman, an entirely new take from filmmaker Matt Reeves that explores the vigilante Caped Crusader’s journey as he attempts to solve a series of killings in Gotham City. Robert Pattinson stars alongside Zoe Kravitz, Paul Dano, with Andy Serkis and Colin Farrell. The Warner Bros. Pictures film opens only in theaters on March 4th.
Add your name and email address in our comments section below to enter for a chance to win a prize pack from Warner Bros. Pictures inspired by The Batman. The Batman prize pack will be awarded to one grand prize winner – includes Backpack, t-shirt, hat and a puzzle.
The Batman | Official Movie Site
From Warner Bros. Pictures comes Matt Reeves’ “The Batman,” starring Robert Pattinson in the dual role of Gotham City’s vigilante detective and his alter ego, reclusive billionaire Bruce Wayne. Starring alongside Pattinson as Gotham’s famous and infamous cast...
Add your name and email address in our comments section below to enter for a chance to win a prize pack from Warner Bros. Pictures inspired by The Batman. The Batman prize pack will be awarded to one grand prize winner – includes Backpack, t-shirt, hat and a puzzle.
The Batman | Official Movie Site
From Warner Bros. Pictures comes Matt Reeves’ “The Batman,” starring Robert Pattinson in the dual role of Gotham City’s vigilante detective and his alter ego, reclusive billionaire Bruce Wayne. Starring alongside Pattinson as Gotham’s famous and infamous cast...
- 2/24/2022
- by Movie Geeks
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Alex Camilleri, Lizzie Shapiro and Jessica Beshir have received Film Independent’s $25,000 Spirit Awards cash grants for emerging filmmakers. The announcements were made by Ekwa Msangi (“Farewell Amor”), Gerry Kim (“I’m No Longer Here”) and Elegance Bratton (“Pier Kids”), who received the grants last year.
Camilleri, director of “Luzzu,” received the Someone to Watch Award. The prize is in its 28th year and recognizes talented filmmakers of singular vision who have not yet received appropriate recognition. Finalists for the award were Michael Sarnoski, director of “Pig,” and Gillian Wallace Horvat, director of “I Blame Society.”
Shapiro, producer of “Shiva Baby,” received the Producers Award. The award honors emerging producers who, despite highly limited resources, demonstrate the creativity, tenacity and vision required to produce quality, independent films. The award is in its 25th year. Finalists included Brad Becker-Parton, who produced “Italian Studies,” and Pin-Chun Liu, who produced “Test Pattern.”
Beshir, director of “Faya Dayi,...
Camilleri, director of “Luzzu,” received the Someone to Watch Award. The prize is in its 28th year and recognizes talented filmmakers of singular vision who have not yet received appropriate recognition. Finalists for the award were Michael Sarnoski, director of “Pig,” and Gillian Wallace Horvat, director of “I Blame Society.”
Shapiro, producer of “Shiva Baby,” received the Producers Award. The award honors emerging producers who, despite highly limited resources, demonstrate the creativity, tenacity and vision required to produce quality, independent films. The award is in its 25th year. Finalists included Brad Becker-Parton, who produced “Italian Studies,” and Pin-Chun Liu, who produced “Test Pattern.”
Beshir, director of “Faya Dayi,...
- 2/10/2022
- by Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
Watertower Music has announced the release of “The Batman”, the compelling new theme from director Matt Reeves’ “The Batman,” starring Robert Pattinson in the dual role of Gotham City’s vigilante detective and his alter ego, reclusive billionaire Bruce Wayne.
The theme was created by Academy-, Emmy- and Grammy Award winning composer Michael Giacchino and is the first music to be made available from Giacchino’s upcoming The Batman (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack).
Here’s what Matt Reeves said over on Twitter about Giacchino’s score. The filmmaker and composer previously worked on Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, released on July 11, 2014 and the third film, War for the Planet of the Apes, released on July 14, 2017
My brilliant friend @m_giacchino wrote this theme before I ever shot a frame of @TheBatman. I can still remember listening to it in my car with #DylanClark before we went onto the...
The theme was created by Academy-, Emmy- and Grammy Award winning composer Michael Giacchino and is the first music to be made available from Giacchino’s upcoming The Batman (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack).
Here’s what Matt Reeves said over on Twitter about Giacchino’s score. The filmmaker and composer previously worked on Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, released on July 11, 2014 and the third film, War for the Planet of the Apes, released on July 14, 2017
My brilliant friend @m_giacchino wrote this theme before I ever shot a frame of @TheBatman. I can still remember listening to it in my car with #DylanClark before we went onto the...
- 1/21/2022
- by Michelle Hannett
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
https://www.instagram.com/thebatman/
Check out the brand new trailer for The Batman, hitting theaters next year on March 4, 2022.
From Warner Bros. Pictures comes Matt Reeves’ “The Batman,” starring Robert Pattinson in the dual role of Gotham City’s vigilante detective and his alter ego, reclusive billionaire Bruce Wayne.
Starring alongside Pattinson as Gotham’s famous and infamous cast of characters are Zoë Kravitz as Selina Kyle; Paul Dano as Edward Nashton; Jeffrey Wright as the Gcpd’s James Gordon; John Turturro as Carmine Falcone; Peter Sarsgaard as Gotham D.A. Gil Colson; Jayme Lawson (“Farewell Amor”) as mayoral candidate Bella Reál; with Andy Serkis as Alfred; and Colin Farrell as Oswald Cobblepot.
Reeves (“The Planet of the Apes” franchise) directed from a screenplay by Reeves & Peter Craig, based on characters from DC. Batman was created by Bob Kane with Bill Finger. Dylan Clark (the “Planet of the Apes...
Check out the brand new trailer for The Batman, hitting theaters next year on March 4, 2022.
From Warner Bros. Pictures comes Matt Reeves’ “The Batman,” starring Robert Pattinson in the dual role of Gotham City’s vigilante detective and his alter ego, reclusive billionaire Bruce Wayne.
Starring alongside Pattinson as Gotham’s famous and infamous cast of characters are Zoë Kravitz as Selina Kyle; Paul Dano as Edward Nashton; Jeffrey Wright as the Gcpd’s James Gordon; John Turturro as Carmine Falcone; Peter Sarsgaard as Gotham D.A. Gil Colson; Jayme Lawson (“Farewell Amor”) as mayoral candidate Bella Reál; with Andy Serkis as Alfred; and Colin Farrell as Oswald Cobblepot.
Reeves (“The Planet of the Apes” franchise) directed from a screenplay by Reeves & Peter Craig, based on characters from DC. Batman was created by Bob Kane with Bill Finger. Dylan Clark (the “Planet of the Apes...
- 12/29/2021
- by Michelle Hannett
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
We're almost two months away from the premiere of The Batman and Warner Bros. has released a brand new trailer!
From Warner Bros. Pictures comes Matt Reeves’ “The Batman,” starring Robert Pattinson in the dual role of Gotham City’s vigilante detective and his alter ego, reclusive billionaire Bruce Wayne.
Starring alongside Pattinson as Gotham’s famous and infamous cast of characters are Zoë Kravitz as Selina Kyle; Paul Dano as Edward Nashton; Jeffrey Wright as the Gcpd’s James Gordon; John Turturro as Carmine Falcone; Peter Sarsgaard as Gotham D.A. Gil Colson; Jayme Lawson (“Farewell Amor”) as mayoral candidate Bella Reál; with Andy Serkis as Alfred; and Colin Farrell as Oswald Cobblepot.
Reeves (“The Planet of the Apes” franchise) directed from a screenplay by Reeves & Peter Craig, based on characters from DC. Batman was created by Bob Kane with Bill Finger. Dylan Clark (the “Planet of the Apes...
From Warner Bros. Pictures comes Matt Reeves’ “The Batman,” starring Robert Pattinson in the dual role of Gotham City’s vigilante detective and his alter ego, reclusive billionaire Bruce Wayne.
Starring alongside Pattinson as Gotham’s famous and infamous cast of characters are Zoë Kravitz as Selina Kyle; Paul Dano as Edward Nashton; Jeffrey Wright as the Gcpd’s James Gordon; John Turturro as Carmine Falcone; Peter Sarsgaard as Gotham D.A. Gil Colson; Jayme Lawson (“Farewell Amor”) as mayoral candidate Bella Reál; with Andy Serkis as Alfred; and Colin Farrell as Oswald Cobblepot.
Reeves (“The Planet of the Apes” franchise) directed from a screenplay by Reeves & Peter Craig, based on characters from DC. Batman was created by Bob Kane with Bill Finger. Dylan Clark (the “Planet of the Apes...
- 12/27/2021
- by Jonathan James
- DailyDead
Exclusive: Wavelength, the Emmy-winning film studio behind titles including Won’t You Be My Neighbor? and Farewell Amor, has signed an exclusive agreement with ICM Partners for global representation.
ICM will now represent all of the projects owned by Wavelength across the mediums of scripted and non-scripted television, documentary TV, motion pictures and digital programming. It will also act as a sales agent for the company’s motion picture projects, advising on their creation, development, financing and production, as well as other means of exploiting them, while assisting in bringing together negotiations and additional key elements.
“Wavelength has always been dedicated to honest storytelling and driving innovation,” said the studio’s President and Executive Producer, Joe Plummer. “Partnering with a renowned global agency like ICM will open new doors for us and take our projects to the next level. We couldn’t have chosen a better agency to represent our studio.
ICM will now represent all of the projects owned by Wavelength across the mediums of scripted and non-scripted television, documentary TV, motion pictures and digital programming. It will also act as a sales agent for the company’s motion picture projects, advising on their creation, development, financing and production, as well as other means of exploiting them, while assisting in bringing together negotiations and additional key elements.
“Wavelength has always been dedicated to honest storytelling and driving innovation,” said the studio’s President and Executive Producer, Joe Plummer. “Partnering with a renowned global agency like ICM will open new doors for us and take our projects to the next level. We couldn’t have chosen a better agency to represent our studio.
- 11/9/2021
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Africa’s biggest film festival unfolded in Burkina Faso from October 16 to 23.
Finnish-Somali filmmaker Khadar Ayderus Ahmed’s The Gravedigger’s Wife scooped the top prize at the 27th edition of the Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou (Fespaco) in Burkina Faso over the weekend.
The largest film festival in Africa, the biannual event normally takes place end-February, start-March but was pushed to October 16-23 this year due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Its top prize is the $36,000 Golden Stallion of Yennenga (Étalon de Yennenga) award. The prizes are named after legendary warrior princess Yennenga, who is considered the mother...
Finnish-Somali filmmaker Khadar Ayderus Ahmed’s The Gravedigger’s Wife scooped the top prize at the 27th edition of the Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou (Fespaco) in Burkina Faso over the weekend.
The largest film festival in Africa, the biannual event normally takes place end-February, start-March but was pushed to October 16-23 this year due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Its top prize is the $36,000 Golden Stallion of Yennenga (Étalon de Yennenga) award. The prizes are named after legendary warrior princess Yennenga, who is considered the mother...
- 10/25/2021
- by Melanie Goodfellow
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: Arthouse streamer and distributor Mubi is launching a U.S. in-theater offering this month letting members see one film a week that it selects at participating cinemas starting in New York City. It said Mubi Go will roll out nationwide in selected markets with LA next in early 2022.
Mubi Go (available in the U.K. and India) will launch Oct. 29 with Netflix’s Passing, directed by Rebecca Hall, that premiered at Sundance and screened at the New York Film Festival. Subscribers can get a free ticket during the film’s theatrical engagement at the Paris Theater and IFC Center ahead of its Nov. 10 streaming release on Netflix.
Adapted from the 1929 novel by Nella Larsen, Passing is the story of two Black women, Irene Redfield (Tessa Thompson) and Clare Kendry (Ruth Negga), who can pass as white but choose to live on opposite sides of the color line during the height of the Harlem Renaissance.
Mubi Go (available in the U.K. and India) will launch Oct. 29 with Netflix’s Passing, directed by Rebecca Hall, that premiered at Sundance and screened at the New York Film Festival. Subscribers can get a free ticket during the film’s theatrical engagement at the Paris Theater and IFC Center ahead of its Nov. 10 streaming release on Netflix.
Adapted from the 1929 novel by Nella Larsen, Passing is the story of two Black women, Irene Redfield (Tessa Thompson) and Clare Kendry (Ruth Negga), who can pass as white but choose to live on opposite sides of the color line during the height of the Harlem Renaissance.
- 10/19/2021
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
Frankie Faison (The Wire), Jayme Lawson (The Batman), Tosin Cole (Star Wars: The Force Awakens), Kevin Carroll (The Leftovers), Sean Patrick Thomas (Barbershop), John Douglas Thompson (Mare of Easttown) and Roger Guenveur Smith (Self Made: Inspired by the Life Of Madam C.J Walker) will join Danielle Deadwyler, Whoopi Goldberg and Jalyn Hall in Chinonye Chukwu’s feature Orion Pictures release, Till about Emmett Louis Till. The movie is currently filming in Atlanta.
Till tells the story of Mamie Till-Mobley (Deadwyler), whose pursuit of justice for her 14-year-old son Emmett Louis Till (Hall) became a galvanizing moment that helped lead to the creation of the civil rights movement. As Time Magazine reported, “…thanks to a mother’s determination to expose the barbarousness of the crime, the public could no longer pretend to ignore what they couldn’t see.” Mamie’s decision to have an open casket at Emmett’s funeral,...
Till tells the story of Mamie Till-Mobley (Deadwyler), whose pursuit of justice for her 14-year-old son Emmett Louis Till (Hall) became a galvanizing moment that helped lead to the creation of the civil rights movement. As Time Magazine reported, “…thanks to a mother’s determination to expose the barbarousness of the crime, the public could no longer pretend to ignore what they couldn’t see.” Mamie’s decision to have an open casket at Emmett’s funeral,...
- 10/11/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
MGM’s Orion Pictures’ film “Till,” starring Danielle Deadwyler, Whoopi Goldberg and Jalyn Hall as Emmett Till, has rounded out its cast.
Frankie Faison, Jayme Lawson, Tosin Cole, Kevin Carroll, Sean Patrick Thomas, John Douglas Thompson and Roger Guenveur Smith have boarded the project, directed by Chinonye Chukwu. “Till” is currently filming in Atlanta, with the full cast pictured above.
“Till” tells the story of Mamie Till-Mobley (Deadwyler), chronicling her decision to have an open casket at Emmett’s funeral and allowing Jet magazine to publish David Jackson’s funeral photos in order to ensure people everywhere saw the true horrors of her son’s murder. The decision from the grieving mother was a galvanizing moment that led to the creation of the civil rights movement. Goldberg is set to portray Till’s grandmother, Alma Carthan.
Chuwku also wrote the screenplay for the film, about a mother’s pursuit of justice,...
Frankie Faison, Jayme Lawson, Tosin Cole, Kevin Carroll, Sean Patrick Thomas, John Douglas Thompson and Roger Guenveur Smith have boarded the project, directed by Chinonye Chukwu. “Till” is currently filming in Atlanta, with the full cast pictured above.
“Till” tells the story of Mamie Till-Mobley (Deadwyler), chronicling her decision to have an open casket at Emmett’s funeral and allowing Jet magazine to publish David Jackson’s funeral photos in order to ensure people everywhere saw the true horrors of her son’s murder. The decision from the grieving mother was a galvanizing moment that led to the creation of the civil rights movement. Goldberg is set to portray Till’s grandmother, Alma Carthan.
Chuwku also wrote the screenplay for the film, about a mother’s pursuit of justice,...
- 10/11/2021
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Jayme Lawson, Hero Fiennes Tiffin and Masali Baduza are joining TriStar’s Gina Prince-Bythewood directed historical African epic The Woman King which stars Oscar winner Viola Davis.
“We are so lucky to catch these three rising phenoms who are bringing their incredible passion and talent to this beautiful ensemble,” said Prince-Bythewood.
The pic is based on true events that took place in The Kingdom of Dahomey, one of the most powerful states of Africa in the 18th and 19th centuries. The story follows Nanisca (Davis), General of the all-female military unit, and Nawi (International Emmy nominated Thuso Mbedu), an ambitious recruit, who together fought enemies who violated their honor, enslaved their people, and threatened to destroy everything they’ve lived for. Lawson will play the ambitious and cunning head wife to Dahomey’s ruler, King Ghezo, played by John Boyega. As the warrior cast is being rounded out, Adrienne Warren...
“We are so lucky to catch these three rising phenoms who are bringing their incredible passion and talent to this beautiful ensemble,” said Prince-Bythewood.
The pic is based on true events that took place in The Kingdom of Dahomey, one of the most powerful states of Africa in the 18th and 19th centuries. The story follows Nanisca (Davis), General of the all-female military unit, and Nawi (International Emmy nominated Thuso Mbedu), an ambitious recruit, who together fought enemies who violated their honor, enslaved their people, and threatened to destroy everything they’ve lived for. Lawson will play the ambitious and cunning head wife to Dahomey’s ruler, King Ghezo, played by John Boyega. As the warrior cast is being rounded out, Adrienne Warren...
- 10/7/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Multi-platform media company Macro, which focuses on representing the voice and perspectives of Black people and people of color, has promoted two key executives.
CEO Charles D. King has named Poppy Hanks as EVP, film production and development, and Greta Talia Fuentes as VP, film production and development.
Hanks is widely known for her work with a range of writers and directors. She produced Justin Chon’s Blue Bayou, Esteban Arango’s Blast Beat and Alan Yang’s Tigertail, and will next produce Cleopatra Jones for Warner Bros. Pictures.
She executive produced the six-time Academy Award nominated Judas and The Black Messiah, directed by Shaka King, Ekwa Msangi’s Farewell Amor, Angel Kristi Williams’ Really Love, Boots Riley’s Sorry To Bother You, Dan Gilroy’s Roman J. Israel, Esq., Steven Caple Jr.’s The Land, and the multi-Oscar nominated Mudbound that was directed by Dee Rees and sold to...
CEO Charles D. King has named Poppy Hanks as EVP, film production and development, and Greta Talia Fuentes as VP, film production and development.
Hanks is widely known for her work with a range of writers and directors. She produced Justin Chon’s Blue Bayou, Esteban Arango’s Blast Beat and Alan Yang’s Tigertail, and will next produce Cleopatra Jones for Warner Bros. Pictures.
She executive produced the six-time Academy Award nominated Judas and The Black Messiah, directed by Shaka King, Ekwa Msangi’s Farewell Amor, Angel Kristi Williams’ Really Love, Boots Riley’s Sorry To Bother You, Dan Gilroy’s Roman J. Israel, Esq., Steven Caple Jr.’s The Land, and the multi-Oscar nominated Mudbound that was directed by Dee Rees and sold to...
- 9/2/2021
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
Macro founder and CEO Charles D. King announced promotions for film production and development executives Poppy Hanks and Greta Talia Fuentes.
Both longtime Macro employees, Hanks has been elevated to executive vice president of film production and development, while Fuentes has been upped to VP at the multi-platform media company.
“Poppy and Greta were members of the original team when I launched Macro six years ago, so there really aren’t enough words to describe my joy in announcing these promotions today,” King said, in a statement announcing the promotions.
“Poppy’s talent for story and her discerning eye have helped hone many of our award-winning films and she has been a trusted friend and colleague for two decades,” King continued. “Greta has grown into a true force in this business, with her strong relationships with artists and her keen ability to identify, package and develop projects all over town.
Both longtime Macro employees, Hanks has been elevated to executive vice president of film production and development, while Fuentes has been upped to VP at the multi-platform media company.
“Poppy and Greta were members of the original team when I launched Macro six years ago, so there really aren’t enough words to describe my joy in announcing these promotions today,” King said, in a statement announcing the promotions.
“Poppy’s talent for story and her discerning eye have helped hone many of our award-winning films and she has been a trusted friend and colleague for two decades,” King continued. “Greta has grown into a true force in this business, with her strong relationships with artists and her keen ability to identify, package and develop projects all over town.
- 9/2/2021
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Swan Song, Mayday, Queen Of Glory, A Glitch In The Matrix galvanise buyers.
Magnolia Pictures International head Lorna Lee Torres has reported brisk sales in Cannes on Udo Kier drama and SXSW selection Swan Song, Sundance action fantasy Mayday, Tribeca winner Queen Of Glory, and Sundance Midnight entry A Glitch In The Matrix.
Torres and Magnolia international sales director Marie Zeniter attended Cannes for what proved to be a productive trip.
Rights to Swan Song have gone in the UK (Peccadillo), Germany and Austria (Koch Media), Switzerland (Ascot Elite), Australia and New Zealand (Icon), Scandinavia, Baltics, Iceland (NonStop), Canada (Mongrel...
Magnolia Pictures International head Lorna Lee Torres has reported brisk sales in Cannes on Udo Kier drama and SXSW selection Swan Song, Sundance action fantasy Mayday, Tribeca winner Queen Of Glory, and Sundance Midnight entry A Glitch In The Matrix.
Torres and Magnolia international sales director Marie Zeniter attended Cannes for what proved to be a productive trip.
Rights to Swan Song have gone in the UK (Peccadillo), Germany and Austria (Koch Media), Switzerland (Ascot Elite), Australia and New Zealand (Icon), Scandinavia, Baltics, Iceland (NonStop), Canada (Mongrel...
- 7/19/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Wavelength has a simple mantra — “tell great fucking stories” — but its intentions go much deeper than that. Founded in 2015 by Jenifer Westphal, the scrappy six-year-old company has been making waves with its mostly women executives developing a diverse slate of films that combine social relevance with compelling characters, while prioritizing first-time women directors and filmmakers of color.
At a time when Hollywood continues to struggle to find diverse talent behind the camera, companies like Wavelength provide essential case studies for how to lean into inclusivity from the earliest stages of the development process. Since its founding in 2015, Wavelength has produced over 30 feature films, curating a roster of award-winning, buzz-worthy titles including Sundance fare like Ekwa Msangi’s “Farewell Amor,” Jordana Spiro’s “Night Comes On,” and Tayarisha Poe’s “Selah and the Spades,” as well as high profile documentaries including Morgan Neville’s “Won’t You Be My Neighbor,” which...
At a time when Hollywood continues to struggle to find diverse talent behind the camera, companies like Wavelength provide essential case studies for how to lean into inclusivity from the earliest stages of the development process. Since its founding in 2015, Wavelength has produced over 30 feature films, curating a roster of award-winning, buzz-worthy titles including Sundance fare like Ekwa Msangi’s “Farewell Amor,” Jordana Spiro’s “Night Comes On,” and Tayarisha Poe’s “Selah and the Spades,” as well as high profile documentaries including Morgan Neville’s “Won’t You Be My Neighbor,” which...
- 6/24/2021
- by Tambay Obenson
- Indiewire
Exclusive: Wif (Women In Film Los Angeles) and the Black List revealed the six aspiring screenwriters set to participate in the 2021 Feature Residency. The program, a joint effort between both organizations, provides mentorship and career opportunities to six rising women and non-binary screenwriters over the course of a year.
The Residency, which commences today, includes intensive script and professional development sessions. Participants will have meetings and receive feedback from working feature writers, executives, and industry leaders. Past mentors include Jac Schaeffer (Black Widow), Emily V. Gordon (The Big Sick), Stephany Folsom (Toy Story 4), David Rabinowitz (Blackkklansman), Mattson Tomlin (Project Power), Haifaa Al-Mansour (Wadjda), Andrea Berloff (The Kitchen), Aline Brosh McKenna (Cray Ex-Girlfriend), Scott Myers (Go Into the Story), Liz Hannah (Long Shot), Kirsten “Kiwi” Smith (Legally Blonde) and more.
“Said it before, will say it again: I very much look forward to the year that doing two writing labs...
The Residency, which commences today, includes intensive script and professional development sessions. Participants will have meetings and receive feedback from working feature writers, executives, and industry leaders. Past mentors include Jac Schaeffer (Black Widow), Emily V. Gordon (The Big Sick), Stephany Folsom (Toy Story 4), David Rabinowitz (Blackkklansman), Mattson Tomlin (Project Power), Haifaa Al-Mansour (Wadjda), Andrea Berloff (The Kitchen), Aline Brosh McKenna (Cray Ex-Girlfriend), Scott Myers (Go Into the Story), Liz Hannah (Long Shot), Kirsten “Kiwi” Smith (Legally Blonde) and more.
“Said it before, will say it again: I very much look forward to the year that doing two writing labs...
- 6/17/2021
- by Alexandra Del Rosario
- Deadline Film + TV
“Queen of Glory,” a new indie drama about a doctoral student whose plans are upended when her mother dies unexpectedly and leaves her the family’s Christian bookstore, is a remarkable feature film directing debut for Nana Mensah.
Not only does its premiere at this year’s Tribeca Festival herald the arrival of a compelling new cinematic voice, it also represents an impressive triple act. Mensah didn’t just direct the movie. She wrote the script and stars in the picture, as well. That was partly a necessity, she claims, one that arose because of the film’s shoestring budget. Mensah, best known for her work in NBC’s “New Amsterdam” and the indie drama “Farewell Amor,” also helped raise the money for the production and, in a case of art imitating life, convinced her parents to let her turn their Christian bookstore into a film set.
The sales rights...
Not only does its premiere at this year’s Tribeca Festival herald the arrival of a compelling new cinematic voice, it also represents an impressive triple act. Mensah didn’t just direct the movie. She wrote the script and stars in the picture, as well. That was partly a necessity, she claims, one that arose because of the film’s shoestring budget. Mensah, best known for her work in NBC’s “New Amsterdam” and the indie drama “Farewell Amor,” also helped raise the money for the production and, in a case of art imitating life, convinced her parents to let her turn their Christian bookstore into a film set.
The sales rights...
- 6/15/2021
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Michael Lieberman, formerly head of publicity at Metrograph, has been hired as Director of Communications, U.S., at Mubi. He will be based at the New York offices of the global film distributor, producer and curated film streaming service.
In his new role, Lieberman will lead all communications for the U.S. including publicity for Mubi releases, working alongside Global Director of Communications Sophie Rhatigan, U.S. Director of Marketing Corey Wilson, VP Global Marketing Lilly Riber, U.S. Director of Distribution Chris Mason Wells and Global Distribution boss Jon Barrenechea.
At Metrograph, Lieberman helped oversee the launch of the Metrograph cinema in 2015, Metrograph Pictures in 2019 and Metrograph Digital last year. He also promoted programming like retrospectives of Brian De Palma, Maggie Cheung and Gena Rowlands/John Cassavetes, and theatrical releases of A Bigger Splash and Downtown 81 among others.
He previously held publicity positions at Susan Norget Film Promotion and Film Presence.
In his new role, Lieberman will lead all communications for the U.S. including publicity for Mubi releases, working alongside Global Director of Communications Sophie Rhatigan, U.S. Director of Marketing Corey Wilson, VP Global Marketing Lilly Riber, U.S. Director of Distribution Chris Mason Wells and Global Distribution boss Jon Barrenechea.
At Metrograph, Lieberman helped oversee the launch of the Metrograph cinema in 2015, Metrograph Pictures in 2019 and Metrograph Digital last year. He also promoted programming like retrospectives of Brian De Palma, Maggie Cheung and Gena Rowlands/John Cassavetes, and theatrical releases of A Bigger Splash and Downtown 81 among others.
He previously held publicity positions at Susan Norget Film Promotion and Film Presence.
- 5/24/2021
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Greenwich Entertainment has acquired North American distribution rights to Nicholas Bruckman’s Not Going Quietly, with plans to release the film in theaters on August 13.
The documentary, which won the Audience Award and Special Jury Recognition for Humanity in Social Action at SXSW, offers an intimate and inspiring look at the life of political activist Ady Barkan.
“If you didn’t already know that Ady Barkan is an incredible badass who has overcome every possible obstacle to transform our democracy for the better, soon you will thanks to Greenwich Entertainment,” said director Nicholas Bruckman in a statement. “We’re beyond excited to be working with the passionate team at Greenwich on the release of Not Going Quietly, and to share Ady’s story nationwide at this profound and hopeful moment for our country.”
A progressive hero and loving father, Barkan was diagnosed with Als at age 32. In spite of his declining physical abilities,...
The documentary, which won the Audience Award and Special Jury Recognition for Humanity in Social Action at SXSW, offers an intimate and inspiring look at the life of political activist Ady Barkan.
“If you didn’t already know that Ady Barkan is an incredible badass who has overcome every possible obstacle to transform our democracy for the better, soon you will thanks to Greenwich Entertainment,” said director Nicholas Bruckman in a statement. “We’re beyond excited to be working with the passionate team at Greenwich on the release of Not Going Quietly, and to share Ady’s story nationwide at this profound and hopeful moment for our country.”
A progressive hero and loving father, Barkan was diagnosed with Als at age 32. In spite of his declining physical abilities,...
- 5/12/2021
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Company had two projects selected at Sundance this year – Cusp and The Blazing World.
Jenifer Westphal’s Brooklyn-based Wavelength Productions, the producer of Farewell Amor and Sundance winners Cusp and Feels Good Man, has rebranded as Wavelength and established two divisions.
Wavelength Films is the documentary and narrative film production arm of the company, while Wavelength Studios is the commercial division aimed at creating elevated content for brands.
Five-year-old Wavelength will continue to develop, produce and finance “content that reveals out common humanity”.
Founder, CEO and executive producer Westphal said the rebrand and expansion were “the result of the hard...
Jenifer Westphal’s Brooklyn-based Wavelength Productions, the producer of Farewell Amor and Sundance winners Cusp and Feels Good Man, has rebranded as Wavelength and established two divisions.
Wavelength Films is the documentary and narrative film production arm of the company, while Wavelength Studios is the commercial division aimed at creating elevated content for brands.
Five-year-old Wavelength will continue to develop, produce and finance “content that reveals out common humanity”.
Founder, CEO and executive producer Westphal said the rebrand and expansion were “the result of the hard...
- 5/5/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: Wavelength Productions, the company founded and led by producer Jenifer Westphal, unveiled a rebrand on Tuesday. The newly named Wavelength will now operate as two divisions: Wavelength Films, the documentary and narrative film production arm, and Wavelength Studios, its nascent commercials division.
The company, which counts as producing credits the documentaries Where’s My Roy Cohn?, Knock Down the House and Morgan Neville’s Won’t You Be My Neighbor? as well as the Sundance Film Festival-winning pics Cusp, Feels Good Man and Farewell Amor, will continue to focus on developing, producing and financing content with a special focus on early-career filmmakers and marginalized voices.
In addition to the rebrand, Wavelength Films said it has promoted associate producer Taylor Wildenhaus to production manager.
The Wavelength Studios division has been working behind the scenes on the commericals side but is getting its own unit as part of the new structure. It will...
The company, which counts as producing credits the documentaries Where’s My Roy Cohn?, Knock Down the House and Morgan Neville’s Won’t You Be My Neighbor? as well as the Sundance Film Festival-winning pics Cusp, Feels Good Man and Farewell Amor, will continue to focus on developing, producing and financing content with a special focus on early-career filmmakers and marginalized voices.
In addition to the rebrand, Wavelength Films said it has promoted associate producer Taylor Wildenhaus to production manager.
The Wavelength Studios division has been working behind the scenes on the commericals side but is getting its own unit as part of the new structure. It will...
- 5/4/2021
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
Minari, Sound Of Metal deliver best supporting actor prizes.
Nomadland was named best feature and Chloe Zhao best director while Carey Mulligan and Riz Ahmed took lead acting honours at the virtual 2021 Film Independent Spirit Awards on Thursday night (April 22).
Searchlight Pictures’ Nomadland won four prizes on the night including Joshua James Richards for cinematography, and editing for Zhao, who was one of four women nominated in the directing category and has enjoyed a magnificent awards season.
Amazon Studios’ Sound Of Metal earned three awards for Ahmed, supporting actor Paul Raci, and first feature for Darius Marder.
Focus Features’ Promising...
Nomadland was named best feature and Chloe Zhao best director while Carey Mulligan and Riz Ahmed took lead acting honours at the virtual 2021 Film Independent Spirit Awards on Thursday night (April 22).
Searchlight Pictures’ Nomadland won four prizes on the night including Joshua James Richards for cinematography, and editing for Zhao, who was one of four women nominated in the directing category and has enjoyed a magnificent awards season.
Amazon Studios’ Sound Of Metal earned three awards for Ahmed, supporting actor Paul Raci, and first feature for Darius Marder.
Focus Features’ Promising...
- 4/23/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Spirit Awards 2021 Winners List: ‘Nomadland,’ ‘I May Destroy You,’ Riz Ahmed, Carey Mulligan Win Big
“Mank” is the big leader at the 2021 Oscars with 10 nominations, but that wasn’t the case at the 36th Film Independent Spirit Awards. The nomination leader at this ceremony was Eliza Hittman’s acclaimed “Never Rarely Sometimes Always,” which the Academy shut out from the Oscars. The same goes for other beloved Spirit Award nominees like “First Cow,” “Miss Juneteenth,” and “The Assistant.” In other words, the Indie Spirit Awards were a breath of fresh air in this elongated awards season where underdog indie contenders finally get their due in the spotlight.
“Minari” also preformed strong at the Indie Spirits, earning six nominations to match its six Oscar nominations. Fellow Oscar nominees “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” and “Nomadland” each picked up five Spirit Award nominations. Netflix was the most nominated studio with 16 nominations, followed by Focus Features with 10 and A24 with 9.
“Nomadland” was the big winner, taking home the prizes...
“Minari” also preformed strong at the Indie Spirits, earning six nominations to match its six Oscar nominations. Fellow Oscar nominees “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” and “Nomadland” each picked up five Spirit Award nominations. Netflix was the most nominated studio with 16 nominations, followed by Focus Features with 10 and A24 with 9.
“Nomadland” was the big winner, taking home the prizes...
- 4/23/2021
- by Zack Sharf
- Indiewire
Searchlight’s Nomadland won the marquee Best Feature category on Thursday to cap the 36th annual Film Independent Spirit Awards, the final big awards show ahead of Sunday’s Oscars. The Chloé Zhao film, a frontrunner all movie-awards season, won a leading four trophies tonight in the virtual ceremony, including Director and Editing for Zhao and Cinematography for Joshua James Richards.
“In our film Bob Wells says to Fern that you’ve come to the right place to connect with your tribe, your community and independent film you are our community,” producer Mollye Asher said during the Nomadland team’s acceptance speech. Added fellow producer Dan Janvey: “We couldn’t have done it without all the hearts and hands of our fellow collaborators, our fellow filmmakers, who were the Nomadland Company, so to all of you we accept this on your behalf.”
The marquee indie-focused awards show hosted by...
“In our film Bob Wells says to Fern that you’ve come to the right place to connect with your tribe, your community and independent film you are our community,” producer Mollye Asher said during the Nomadland team’s acceptance speech. Added fellow producer Dan Janvey: “We couldn’t have done it without all the hearts and hands of our fellow collaborators, our fellow filmmakers, who were the Nomadland Company, so to all of you we accept this on your behalf.”
The marquee indie-focused awards show hosted by...
- 4/23/2021
- by Patrick Hipes and Antonia Blyth
- Deadline Film + TV
The 2021 Film Independent Spirit Awards are finally upon us, after the nominations were announced three months ago, and the ceremony is taking place just a few days ahead of the Academy Awards. This year, the Spirit Awards won’t be held midday in a hangar in Santa Monica, but will instead live-stream on IFC on Thursday, April 22 at 7:00 p.m. Pt/10:00 p.m. Et. In addition to the linear broadcast, the Spirit Awards will also stream simultaneously on AMC+. Following the broadcast, the full awards ceremony will be made available on demand across AMC+ and IFC platforms starting Friday, April 23. This year’s ceremony will be hosted by “Saturday Night Love” comedian Melissa Villaseñor.
If you’re cord cutter who doesn’t have cable, you can watch IFC live with one of these streaming services, many of which offer a free trial: Philo, fuboTV, Sling TV, YouTube TV,...
If you’re cord cutter who doesn’t have cable, you can watch IFC live with one of these streaming services, many of which offer a free trial: Philo, fuboTV, Sling TV, YouTube TV,...
- 4/21/2021
- by Ryan Lattanzio
- Indiewire
It’s all come down to this. The longest awards season is drawing to a close, after an excruciating pandemic year that nearly destroyed the movie business. History looks to be made at the Oscars, with women and people of color getting recognition — but there’s also room for a surprise or two.
In the winners tally, “Nomadland” is expected to be the leading film winner with four including best picture followed by “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” with three including Chadwick Boseman.
Netflix is presumed to be the leading studio with a predicted six wins, an increase from last year’s tally of four. The good news is that the streaming giant has a 50/50 shot in four additional races, which could bring them to a double-digit tally, which would be a record in the modern era (Metro-Goldwyn Mayer dominated the 1930s and 1940s).
Here are my final predictions for the 93rd Oscars.
In the winners tally, “Nomadland” is expected to be the leading film winner with four including best picture followed by “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” with three including Chadwick Boseman.
Netflix is presumed to be the leading studio with a predicted six wins, an increase from last year’s tally of four. The good news is that the streaming giant has a 50/50 shot in four additional races, which could bring them to a double-digit tally, which would be a record in the modern era (Metro-Goldwyn Mayer dominated the 1930s and 1940s).
Here are my final predictions for the 93rd Oscars.
- 4/21/2021
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
The 36th Film Independent Spirit Awards are set to take place this week as a welcome reprieve to this elongated Oscar season. Unlike the Academy Awards, where David Fincher’s “Mank” reigns supreme with 10 nominations, the 2021 Indie Spirit Awards are dominated by Eliza Hittman’s “Never Rarely Sometimes Always,” which was shut out of the Oscar nominations. “Never Rarely” boasts seven Spirit Award nominations this year, including Best Feature and Best Director.
Unlike the Oscars, the Spirit Awards also boast a Best First Feature category to honor the greatest directorial debuts of the last year. The 2021 nominees in this category are “I Carry You With Me,” “The 40 Year Old Version,” “Sound of Metal,” “Miss Juneteenth,” and “Nine Days.” Only “Sound of Metal” broke into the Oscars among these nominees.
As always, the budget cutoff for films to be eligible for the Spirit Awards is $22.5 million. For this reason, several high...
Unlike the Oscars, the Spirit Awards also boast a Best First Feature category to honor the greatest directorial debuts of the last year. The 2021 nominees in this category are “I Carry You With Me,” “The 40 Year Old Version,” “Sound of Metal,” “Miss Juneteenth,” and “Nine Days.” Only “Sound of Metal” broke into the Oscars among these nominees.
As always, the budget cutoff for films to be eligible for the Spirit Awards is $22.5 million. For this reason, several high...
- 4/19/2021
- by Zack Sharf
- Indiewire
Wavelength, the award-winning company behind films like “Feels Good Man” and “Farewell Amor,” has named executive Lee Beckett as vice president and head of production for its film division.
Lee will work closely with Wavelength founder and CEO Jenifer Westphal and president Joe Plummer to further the label’s mission to “tell great f—ing stories.” In her new role, Beckett will manage the day-to-day operations for Wavelength’s in-house productions and work to implement the short and long-term production needs for Wavelength Films.
“I am honored to join the Wavelength executive team at this moment of exponential growth in their film division. Their taste, integrity and drive are second to none, and it is such a privilege to join their mission to endow diverse filmmakers and find our common humanity through award-winning storytelling,” said Beckett.
Beckett joins Wavelength from ABC News where she served as vice president of original production for the documentary division,...
Lee will work closely with Wavelength founder and CEO Jenifer Westphal and president Joe Plummer to further the label’s mission to “tell great f—ing stories.” In her new role, Beckett will manage the day-to-day operations for Wavelength’s in-house productions and work to implement the short and long-term production needs for Wavelength Films.
“I am honored to join the Wavelength executive team at this moment of exponential growth in their film division. Their taste, integrity and drive are second to none, and it is such a privilege to join their mission to endow diverse filmmakers and find our common humanity through award-winning storytelling,” said Beckett.
Beckett joins Wavelength from ABC News where she served as vice president of original production for the documentary division,...
- 4/6/2021
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: The Chi alum Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine has been tapped for a heavily recurring role opposite Manuel Garcia-Rulfo in The Lincoln Lawyer, Netflix’s drama series based on Michael Connelly bestselling novels, from David E. Kelley and A+E Studios.
Written and executive produced by Kelley and showrunner Ted Humphrey, The Lincoln Lawyer revolves around Mickey Haller (Garcia-Rulfo), an iconoclastic idealist, who runs his law practice out of the back seat of his Lincoln Town Car as he takes on cases big and small across the expansive city of Los Angeles.
Ntare will play Detective Raymond Griggs. A character created specifically for the series, Griggs is an intense and tenacious LAPD Detective investigating the murder of Jerry Vincent, a defense attorney whose cases Mickey Haller (Garcia-Rulfo) has taken over. While Griggs is initially an antagonist to Mickey, the two men eventually develop a wary working relationship as they each try...
Written and executive produced by Kelley and showrunner Ted Humphrey, The Lincoln Lawyer revolves around Mickey Haller (Garcia-Rulfo), an iconoclastic idealist, who runs his law practice out of the back seat of his Lincoln Town Car as he takes on cases big and small across the expansive city of Los Angeles.
Ntare will play Detective Raymond Griggs. A character created specifically for the series, Griggs is an intense and tenacious LAPD Detective investigating the murder of Jerry Vincent, a defense attorney whose cases Mickey Haller (Garcia-Rulfo) has taken over. While Griggs is initially an antagonist to Mickey, the two men eventually develop a wary working relationship as they each try...
- 4/5/2021
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Farewell Amor, which we discussed a few times last year, is now on Hulu
Time for another round of streaming roulette where we point out titles that are new(ish) to streaming or about to leave and just for fun, freeze frame them at totally random places in the scroll bar and whatever comes up we share...
Have you seen the movie Tell Me You Love Me?
Monsoon Wedding (2001/2002) leaving on March 31st
Mira Nair's colorful layered empathetic classic is a must-see. Check it out on Criterion and then read Cláudio's recent piece; It was the first time he had ever seen it...
Time for another round of streaming roulette where we point out titles that are new(ish) to streaming or about to leave and just for fun, freeze frame them at totally random places in the scroll bar and whatever comes up we share...
Have you seen the movie Tell Me You Love Me?
Monsoon Wedding (2001/2002) leaving on March 31st
Mira Nair's colorful layered empathetic classic is a must-see. Check it out on Criterion and then read Cláudio's recent piece; It was the first time he had ever seen it...
- 3/19/2021
- by NATHANIEL R
- FilmExperience
Previous winner Shaka King named honourary chair for this year’s Spirit Awards.
Film Independent has revealed the winners of its three emerging filmmaker awards, each of which comes with a $25,000 unrestricted cash grant.
Ekwa Msangi, director of 2020 Sundance competition entry Farewell Amor, gets the Someone to Watch Award for so far under-recognised “filmmakers of singular vision.” Other finalists for the award were David Midell, director of The Killing of Kenneth Chamberlain, and Bull director Annie Silverstein.
Gerry Kim, one of the producers of Mexican drama I’m No Longer Here, shortlisted for this year’s international film Oscar, wins the...
Film Independent has revealed the winners of its three emerging filmmaker awards, each of which comes with a $25,000 unrestricted cash grant.
Ekwa Msangi, director of 2020 Sundance competition entry Farewell Amor, gets the Someone to Watch Award for so far under-recognised “filmmakers of singular vision.” Other finalists for the award were David Midell, director of The Killing of Kenneth Chamberlain, and Bull director Annie Silverstein.
Gerry Kim, one of the producers of Mexican drama I’m No Longer Here, shortlisted for this year’s international film Oscar, wins the...
- 3/16/2021
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
Judas and the Black Messiah director Shaka King on Tuesday was named honorary chair of the 2021 Film Independent Spirit Awards, which are set to air April 22 on IFC and AMC+.
The news comes a day after King and Judas picked up a pair of Oscar nominations — for Best Picture on which King was a producer and Best Original Screenplay for the script he co-wrote with Will Berson, Kenneth Lucas and Keith Lucas.
As part of his duties, King announced winners of three $25,000 Spirit Awards cash grants for emerging filmmakers: the Someone To Watch Award, the Producers Award and the Truer Than Fiction Award.
Ekwa Msangi, director of Farewell Amor, received the Someone to Watch Award, given to “filmmakers of singular vision who have not yet received appropriate recognition.” King won the same award in 2014 for his film Newlyweeds.
Gerry Kim received the Producers Award and Pier Kids director Elegance Bratton...
The news comes a day after King and Judas picked up a pair of Oscar nominations — for Best Picture on which King was a producer and Best Original Screenplay for the script he co-wrote with Will Berson, Kenneth Lucas and Keith Lucas.
As part of his duties, King announced winners of three $25,000 Spirit Awards cash grants for emerging filmmakers: the Someone To Watch Award, the Producers Award and the Truer Than Fiction Award.
Ekwa Msangi, director of Farewell Amor, received the Someone to Watch Award, given to “filmmakers of singular vision who have not yet received appropriate recognition.” King won the same award in 2014 for his film Newlyweeds.
Gerry Kim received the Producers Award and Pier Kids director Elegance Bratton...
- 3/16/2021
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
“Judas and the Black Messiah” director Shaka King has been named the honorary chair of the 2021 Film Independent Spirit Awards, the nonprofit arts organization Film Independent announced on Tuesday. In a video posted on the Spirit Awards website, King launched his tenure in the job by revealing the winners of three cash grants worth a total of $75,000 to emerging filmmakers.
“Farewell Amor” director Ekwa Msangi received the Someone to Watch Award, which, according to Film Independent, goes to “talented filmmakers of singular vision who have not yet received appropriate recognition.” The other nominees in the category were “The Killing of Kenneth Chamberlain” director David Midell and “Bull” director Annie Silverstein. King won this award himself in 2014 after making his feature debut, “Newlyweeds.”
Gerry Kim, the producer of this year’s Mexican Oscar entry, “I’m No Longer Here,” was named recipient of the Producers Award, which salutes “emerging producers who, despite highly limited resources,...
“Farewell Amor” director Ekwa Msangi received the Someone to Watch Award, which, according to Film Independent, goes to “talented filmmakers of singular vision who have not yet received appropriate recognition.” The other nominees in the category were “The Killing of Kenneth Chamberlain” director David Midell and “Bull” director Annie Silverstein. King won this award himself in 2014 after making his feature debut, “Newlyweeds.”
Gerry Kim, the producer of this year’s Mexican Oscar entry, “I’m No Longer Here,” was named recipient of the Producers Award, which salutes “emerging producers who, despite highly limited resources,...
- 3/16/2021
- by Steve Pond
- The Wrap
Oscar ballots will be in the hands of AMPAS voters on March 5, and they’ll have until March 10 to turn them in. All the predicting, theorizing and prognosticating have led to this crucial six-day period when the nearly 10,000 Academy members make their choices among the year’s achievements. As we head into this critical period, in a year defined by a global pandemic that has changed the way we look at cinema, we’re still reminded that movies are well worth celebrating.
Streamers provided access to some of the best films of 2020. This year, no matter what AMPAS ends up selecting as its nominees for the 93rd Academy Awards, most films will be widely available for consumers to watch before the ceremony. Cinema continues to evolve, and we can’t stop what’s coming. As with any true cinephile, my choices for what touched me from this extended eligibility are personally mine.
Streamers provided access to some of the best films of 2020. This year, no matter what AMPAS ends up selecting as its nominees for the 93rd Academy Awards, most films will be widely available for consumers to watch before the ceremony. Cinema continues to evolve, and we can’t stop what’s coming. As with any true cinephile, my choices for what touched me from this extended eligibility are personally mine.
- 3/4/2021
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
Variety's Awards Circuit is home to the official predictions for the upcoming Oscars from Film Awards Editor Clayton Davis. Following Academy Awards history, buzz, news, reviews and sources, the Oscar predictions are updated regularly with the current year's contenders in all categories. Variety's Awards Circuit Prediction schedule consists of four phases, running all year long: Draft, Pre-Season, Regular Season and Post Season. Eligibility calendar and dates of awards will determine how long each phase lasts and will be displayed next to revision date.
To see all the latest predictions, of all the categories, in one place, visit The Collective
Draft>>>Pre Season>>>Regular Season>>>Post Season
2021 Oscars Predictions:
Best Supporting Actress
Updated: Mar. 4, 2021
Awards Prediction Commentary: The win for Jodie Foster at the Golden Globes for “The Mauritanian” was just the boost she needed at this moment, likely getting many more voters to watch the film before voting. With her moving up,...
To see all the latest predictions, of all the categories, in one place, visit The Collective
Draft>>>Pre Season>>>Regular Season>>>Post Season
2021 Oscars Predictions:
Best Supporting Actress
Updated: Mar. 4, 2021
Awards Prediction Commentary: The win for Jodie Foster at the Golden Globes for “The Mauritanian” was just the boost she needed at this moment, likely getting many more voters to watch the film before voting. With her moving up,...
- 3/4/2021
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
Variety's Awards Circuit is home to the official predictions for the upcoming Oscars from Film Awards Editor Clayton Davis. Following Academy Awards history, buzz, news, reviews and sources, the Oscar predictions are updated regularly with the current year's contenders in all categories. Variety's Awards Circuit Prediction schedule consists of four phases, running all year long: Draft, Pre-Season, Regular Season and Post Season. Eligibility calendar and dates of awards will determine how long each phase lasts and will be displayed next to revision date.
To see all the latest predictions, of all the categories, in one place, visit The Collective
Draft>>>Pre Season>>>Regular Season>>>Post Season
2021 Oscars Predictions:
Best Original Screenplay
Updated: Mar. 4, 2021
Awards Prediction Commentary: Sorkin may be the most nominated screenwriter at the Golden Globes, with eight of his nine feature scripts garnering nominations, with the exception of “Malice” (1993)., but Oscars is something different. While he feels definitively safe for a nomination,...
To see all the latest predictions, of all the categories, in one place, visit The Collective
Draft>>>Pre Season>>>Regular Season>>>Post Season
2021 Oscars Predictions:
Best Original Screenplay
Updated: Mar. 4, 2021
Awards Prediction Commentary: Sorkin may be the most nominated screenwriter at the Golden Globes, with eight of his nine feature scripts garnering nominations, with the exception of “Malice” (1993)., but Oscars is something different. While he feels definitively safe for a nomination,...
- 3/4/2021
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
Variety's Awards Circuit is home to the official predictions for the upcoming Oscars from Film Awards Editor Clayton Davis. Following Academy Awards history, buzz, news, reviews and sources, the Oscar predictions are updated regularly with the current year's contenders in all categories. Variety's Awards Circuit Prediction schedule consists of four phases, running all year long: Draft, Pre-Season, Regular Season and Post Season. Eligibility calendar and dates of awards will determine how long each phase lasts and will be displayed next to revision date.
To see all the latest predictions, of all the categories, in one place, visit The Collective
Draft>>>Pre Season>>>Regular Season>>>Post Season
2021 Oscars Predictions:
Best Production Design
Updated: Mar. 4, 2021
Awards Prediction Commentary: The Art Directors Guild gave momentum to “Mulan,” “Promising Young Woman” and “The Trial of the Chicago 7” in the production design race. The usual suspects such as “Mank, “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” and...
To see all the latest predictions, of all the categories, in one place, visit The Collective
Draft>>>Pre Season>>>Regular Season>>>Post Season
2021 Oscars Predictions:
Best Production Design
Updated: Mar. 4, 2021
Awards Prediction Commentary: The Art Directors Guild gave momentum to “Mulan,” “Promising Young Woman” and “The Trial of the Chicago 7” in the production design race. The usual suspects such as “Mank, “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” and...
- 3/4/2021
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
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