Sunday, June 30, 2019

Negromancer News Bits and Bites from June 23rd to 30th, 2019 - Update #25

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BOX OFFICE - From Variety:  The winner of the 6/28 to 6/30/2018 weekend box office is "Toy Story 4" with an estimated take of 58 million dollars.

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BOND - From YahooEntertainment:  Actor Idris Elba says he was "disheartened" by the reaction to him, a Black man, possibly playing James Bond.

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DISNEY - From Variety:  Melissa McCarthy in talks to play "Ursula" in Disney's planned live-action remake of its 1989 film, "The Little Mermaid."  Rob Marshall of "Mary Poppins Returns" is set to direct.

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SCANDAL - From PageSix:  The website notes that Oscar-winning filmmaker, Paul Haggis ("Crash"), is still partying despite a rape allegation against him.

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MOVIES - From Variety:  Paul Rudd ("Ant-Man" films) has joined Jason Reitman's "Ghostbusters classic" film.

From Variety:  Mark Wahlberg is replacing Chris Evans in director Antoine Fuqua's upcoming film, "Infinite."

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BLM - From YahooFinance:  Slavery reparations could carry a $17 trillion ($17,000,000,000,000) price tag.

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MOVIES - From EW:  Jordan Brewster is returning to the "Fast & Furious" franchise.  She will appear in the ninth film  (currently filming in London), after sitting out the eighth installment, "The Fate of the Furious."  She has played, Mia Toretto, the love interest of the late Paul Walker's character, Brian.

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STAR TREK - From Deadline:  Pulitzer Prize winning author, Michael Chabon, has been named the showrunner of CBS All Access' "Star Trek: Picard."

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TELEVISION - From Variety:  Mary J. Blige signs first-looks TV development deal with actress-singer, Mary J. Blige.

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AWARDS - From Deadline:   The Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists Guild said Wednesday that it will hold its 2020 awards ceremony on Saturday, January 11th, 2020.

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MUSIC - From YabooEntertainment:  The biological father of Grammy-winning rapper and recording artist, Eminem, died earlier this week.  Marshall Bruce Mathers, Jr. was 67.

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JAMES BOND - From Variety:  First behind-the-scenes footage from "BOND 25" has been released.

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STREAMING - From Variety: Amazon will carry "Small Axe" in the U.S.  "Small Axe" is an anthology series from Steve McQueen ("12 Years a Slave").

From EOnline:  Meryl Streep, Nicole Kidman, and Ariana Grande join Ryan Murphy's adaptation of the Broadway hit, "The Prom," for Netflix.

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ANIMATION - From TVSeriesFinale:  There is a new Scooby-Doo animated series coming to Boomerang, "Scooby-Doo and Guess Who?"  Actor Jaleel White is reviving his Steve Urkel character, from the old ABC series, "Family Matters" (1989-1998), for an episode of "Scooby-Doo and Guess Who?"

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STREAMING - From Variety:  Viacom partners with Tyler Perry for "BET Plus" streaming service.

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BOX OFFICE - From BoxOfficeMojo:  The winner of the 6/21 to 6/23/2019 weekend box office is "Toy Story 4" with an estimated take of 118 million dollars.

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MOVIES - From FlickeringMyth:  "Hidden Figures" actor Aldis Hodge has joined the cast of Blumhouse's Universal Monsters remake of "The Invisible Man."

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ECO - From Deadline:  Oscar-winning actor, Mark Rylance (Bridge of Spies), has quit the Royal Shakespeare Company over the theaters sponsorship with oil company, BP.

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MOVIES - From Deadline:  Lena Waithe Criticizes Black Movie Stars For Not Financing Indies From Black Filmmakers

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STREAMING - From Deadline:  James Marsden is vying for the role of Stu Redman in "The Stand," the CBS Studios/CBS All Access limited series adaptation of the classic Stephen King horror novel.  This streaming series would be the second miniseries adaptation of King's novel, following ABC's 1994 miniseries.

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STREAMING-TELEVISION - From Vulture:  "15 Fantasy Adaptations We’re Excited to See on TV Soon" by Devon Ivie

OBITS:

From EW:  Actor Billy Drago died Monday, June 24, 2019 at the age of 73.  Drago is best known for portraying real-life gangster, Frank Nitti, in Brian DePalma's film, "The Untouchables" (1987). He was also a recurring character in The WB's series, "Charmed" (1998-2006).

From Variety:  The actor Max Wright has died at the age of 75, Wednesday, June 26, 2019.  Wright was best known for playing the role of Willie Tanner on the NBC TV series, "Alf" (1986 to 1990).  Will Tanner was the head of the family that took in a back-talking alien, Alf.  Wright appeared in numerous TV series, including "Friends" and "Murphy Brown."  He received a 1998 Tony Awards nomination for his performance in "Ivanov."

From Deadline:  The New Orleans musician, composer, arranger, and record producer, Dave Bartholomew, had died at the age of 100, Sunday, June 23, 2019.  Bartholomew is best known for his partnership with pianist and singer-songwriter, Fats Domino.  He co-wrote such Domino hits as "Ain't That a Shame" (1955) and "I'm Walkin'" (1957).  He also wrote the song "Blue Monday" (1954) that was first recorded by guitarist, Smiley Lewis, and then, became a hit for Domino in 1956.

From Deadline:  The bestselling author and journalist, Judith Krantz, has died at the age of 91, Saturday, June 22, 2019.  Although she had a long career in magazine journalism, Krantz is best known for her career as an author of bestselling novels, including her debut, "Scruples" (1978).  Many of her novels were adapted into television miniseries.


Friday, June 28, 2019

Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios to Share Secrets at D23 Expo 2019

Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios Prepare to Share Never-Before-Seen Footage, Details, and Experiences at Disney’s D23 Expo 2019 in Anaheim, August 23–25, 2019

BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Pixar Animation Studios and Walt Disney Animation Studios (WDAS) are gearing up for an exciting weekend of announcements and presentations—sharing never-before-seen footage—plus interactive displays, artist autograph signings, sharable photo opportunities, and giveaways for 2019’s D23 Expo in Anaheim, California.

This year, Pixar and WDAS will join forces with Disney’s live-action team, creating a thrilling Walt Disney Studios slate presentation that promises to wow Disney fans in Hall D23 with new announcements, surprise talent appearances, and sneak peeks of select scenes from the films.

GO BEHIND THE SCENES WITH THE WALT DISNEY STUDIOS
Saturday, August 24, 2019, 10 a.m., Hall D23

As a part of The Walt Disney Studios presentation, Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Chief Creative Officer Jennifer Lee and Pixar Animation Studios’ Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter will present never-before-seen footage, surprise announcements, musical performances, and appearances by all-star voice talent from the studios’ upcoming slate of animated films. Fans will get new looks at WDAS’ highly anticipated follow-up to 2013’s Oscar®-winning feature film Frozen when directors Chris Buck, Lee, and producer Peter Del Vecho reveal new details about Frozen 2. Director Dan Scanlon and producer Kori Rae will introduce fans to the characters in Pixar’s upcoming original feature film Onward, while Docter and producer Dana Murray share details about next summer’s original feature, Soul. Cell phones, cameras, and all recording devices will be checked for this presentation.

SHOW FLOOR
August 23–25, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily

On the show floor, the two studios will once again team up for an immersive animation experience at D23 Expo. The studios’ upcoming slate of films, which include WDAS’ much-anticipated Frozen 2 and Pixar’s brand-new original feature film Onward, will be highlighted, including opportunities to meet the teams behind the movies and autograph signings of exclusive art and promotional item giveaways.

Pixar Animation Studios will also introduce fans to a real-life version of Guinevere, the van from their upcoming film Onward. Decked out with crescent moon windows and a “Pegacorn” (part Pegasus, part unicorn) painted on her sides, Guinevere will offer guests a taste of the adventure that two teenage elf brothers will embark upon in the movie.

ANIMATION PANELS
Sunday, August 25, 10 a.m., D23 Expo Arena.
The Little Mermaid: The 30th Anniversary Celebration! - Presented by H2O+
Fans of the classic film are invited to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of The Little Mermaid, recognized around the world as one of the greatest animated films of all time. Hosted by the voice of Ariel herself, Jodi Benson, it will be an unforgettable “Under the Sea” celebration.

Sunday, August 25, 12 p.m., Walt Disney Archives Stage
Hidden Gems of the Walt Disney Animation Research Library: Preserving and Inspiring the Disney Legacy
Fans will discover what it’s like to hold Disney history in their hands in this informative panel. The talented team at Walt Disney Animation Research Library (ARL) preserves millions of pieces of original Disney Animation art from Steamboat Willie to the films of today. Attendees will learn how the ARL shares these hidden gems, inspiring artists and audiences alike.

Sunday, August 25, 4 p.m., Stage 28.
World Premiere: Walt Disney Animation Studios Presents Short Circuit
In this exciting panel, Walt Disney Animation Studios will debut Short Circuit, an experimental short film program that will debut in Spring 2020 on Disney+. Talented artists and filmmakers will share their films for the first time anywhere and give behind-the-scenes insights.


About Walt Disney Animation Studios
Combining masterful artistry and storytelling with groundbreaking technology, Walt Disney Animation Studios (WDAS) is a filmmaker-driven animation studio responsible for creating some of the most beloved films ever made. Located in Burbank, WDAS continues to build on its rich legacy of innovation and creativity, from the first fully animated feature film, 1937’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, to 2013’s Academy Award®-winning Frozen, the biggest animated film of all time. Among the studio’s timeless creations are Pinocchio, Sleeping Beauty, The Jungle Book, The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, Big Hero 6, Zootopia, Moana, and the upcoming Frozen 2, which opens in U.S. theaters on November 22, 2019.

About Pixar Animation Studios
Pixar Animation Studios, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is an Academy Award®-winning film studio with world-renowned technical, creative, and production capabilities in the art of computer animation. The Northern California studio has created some of the most successful and beloved animated films of all time, including Toy Story, Monsters, Inc., Cars, The Incredibles, Ratatouille, WALL•E, Up, Toy Story 3, Brave, Inside Out, Coco, Incredibles 2, and this summer’s must-see feature film Toy Story 4. Its movies have won 36 Academy Awards® and have grossed more than $14 billion at the worldwide box office to date. Onward, Pixar’s 22nd feature, will open in theaters on March 6, 2020.

About D23 Expo 2019
D23 Expo—The Ultimate Disney Fan Event—brings together all the worlds of Disney under one roof for three packed days of presentations, pavilions, experiences, concerts, sneak peeks, shopping, and more. The event provides fans with unprecedented access to Disney films, television, games, theme parks, and celebrities. For the latest D23 Expo 2019 news, visit D23expo.com. Presentations, talent, and schedule subject to change. To join the D23 Expo conversation, be sure to follow DisneyD23 on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, and use the hashtag #D23Expo.

About D23
The name “D23” pays homage to the exciting journey that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his first studio in Hollywood. D23 is the first official club for fans in Disney’s 90-plus-year history. It gives its members a greater connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic through its quarterly publication, Disney twenty-three; a rich website at D23.com with members-only content; member-exclusive discounts; and special events for D23 Members throughout the year.

Fans can join D23 at Gold Membership ($99.99), Gold Family Membership ($129.99), and General Membership (complimentary) levels at D23.com. To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow DisneyD23 on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

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Thursday, June 27, 2019

"The Simpsons" Make Their D23 Expo Debut August 24th

“Ay Caramba!” Springfield Takes Over Anaheim as The Simpsons Make Their D23 Expo Debut

Matt Groening, Al Jean, Matt Selman, Mike B. Anderson, and stars Nancy Cartwright & Yeardley Smith make their debut at D23 Expo with an entertaining panel, autograph signing, and more!

BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The longest-running primetime scripted show in television history, "The Simpsons," makes its first appearance at D23 Expo. Get insight on the upcoming all-new season in a lively panel Saturday, August 24, 2019, at 10 a.m. in the D23 Expo Arena with creator Matt Groening, Executive Producer Al Jean, Executive Producer Matt Selman, Supervising Director Mike B. Anderson, and stars Nancy Cartwright and Yeardley Smith. Expect lots of surprises, including an exclusive Simpsons collectible item for everyone in attendance.

The Simpsons exploded into a cultural phenomenon in 1990 and has remained one of the most groundbreaking and innovative entertainment franchises, recognizable throughout the world. Recently finishing its historic 30th season, The Simpsons has won 33 Emmy® Awards, 34 Annie Awards, 9 Environmental Media Awards, 7 People’s Choice Awards and 12 Writers Guild of America Awards including the 2019 Outstanding Writing in an Animated Program Award. It was the first animated series to win a Peabody Award and was nominated for an Academy Award® in 2012 for the theatrical short “The Longest Daycare.” The Simpsons Movie was a hit feature film, the mega-attraction The Simpsons Ride at Universal Studios has received historic expansion updates with the addition of “Springfield,” and the show was honored with a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2000. It has been named the “Best Show of the 20th Century” by Time magazine and called the “Best TV Show Ever” by Vulture in 2016.

During the D23 Expo, The Simpsons fans will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with Bart, Lisa, and the rest of The Simpsons family on the convention floor. A few lucky fans will even get a once-in-a-lifetime chance to meet Matt Groening and the rest of the panelists during a one-hour autograph signing session of an exclusive The Simpsons mini-poster following the panel.


About The Simpsons
The Simpsons is a Gracie Films Production in association with 20th Century Fox Television. James L. Brooks, Matt Groening, and Al Jean are the executive producers. The Gracie Films Worldwide Brand Division develops and produces the licensed content for the series. Visit The Simpsons website at SimpsonsWorld.com. “Like” the series on Facebook at facebook.com/TheSimpsons, and follow Homer Simpson @HomerJSimpson and @TheSimpsons on Twitter. Join the conversation using #thesimpsons and follow The Simpsons on Instagram @TheSimpsons.

About D23 Expo 2019
D23 Expo—The Ultimate Disney Fan Event—brings together all the worlds of Disney under one roof for three packed days of presentations, pavilions, experiences, concerts, sneak peeks, shopping, and more. The event provides fans with unprecedented access to Disney films, television, games, theme parks, and celebrities. For the latest D23 Expo 2019 news, visit D23expo.com. Presentations, talent, and schedule subject to change. To join the D23 Expo conversation, be sure to follow DisneyD23 on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, and use the hashtag #D23Expo.

About D23
The name “D23” pays homage to the exciting journey that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his first studio in Hollywood. D23 is the first official club for fans in Disney’s 90-plus-year history. It gives its members a greater connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic through its quarterly publication, Disney twenty-three; a rich website at D23.com with members-only content; member-exclusive discounts; and special events for D23 Members throughout the year.

Fans can join D23 at Gold Membership ($99.99), Gold Family Membership ($129.99), and General Membership (complimentary) levels at D23.com. To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow DisneyD23 on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

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BET and Tyler Perry Announce Fall Debut of "BET+"

BET Networks and Tyler Perry Studios to Launch BET+

NEW PREMIUM SVOD PRODUCT SERVING AFRICAN AMERICAN AUDIENCES TO DEBUT IN THE FALL

MORE THAN 1,000 HOURS OF EXCLUSIVE ORIGINALS AND FAN-FAVORITE SERIES, MOVIES AND SPECIALS FROM BET, TYLER PERRY, TRACY OLIVER, WILL PACKER AND MANY MORE

BET Networks’ new online streaming service, BET+, will be available in the fall on Android devices such as Samsung Galaxy, iOS devices such as the Apple iPad and iPhone, and a variety of steaming devices.

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BET Networks, a unit of Viacom Media Networks (NASDAQ: VIAB, VIA), and Tyler Perry Studios unveiled a new joint venture to launch BET+, a premier subscription video-on-demand service focused on the African American audience. Available to consumers this fall, BET+ will feature more than 1,000 hours of premium content including exclusive new original programming and fan-favorite series, movies, and specials from BET Networks, world-renowned creator Tyler Perry, and a host of leading African American content creators.

“African Americans are the leading consumers of streaming services, with higher SVOD adoption rates than other consumers, which is why we’re so excited to launch a premium product for this underserved audience. BET+ is a natural extension of BET’s linear network, which has been the leading home of black culture for decades. Our curated catalog and original programming will keep the BET+ content offering fresh, fueling subscriber growth, viewership and retention,” said Scott Mills, President of BET Networks. “Tyler Perry is the perfect partner for BET+. The combination of new, original shows and his giant library of popular movies, series and stage plays that Tyler brings to our joint venture creates an amazing product for his large and passionate fan base.”

“In our industry, the way people consume content is constantly evolving. I’ve paid attention to my audience and what works for them and, for that reason, I’m very excited not only about the idea of partnering with BET to create new and exciting content, but also about the idea of giving people a personalized experience through the ability to curate the content they love to consume. On a personal level, this will also be the first time I’ll be working in areas like unscripted and variety television, which will afford me the opportunity to work in fresh, creative ways with new voices and to discover new talent,” said Tyler Perry.

BET+ will offer consumers a comprehensive collection of premier African American-focused dramas, sitcoms, films and specials in the streaming universe. It will be the official home of Tyler Perry’s collected works across film, television and the stage. The service will feature Tyler Perry’s box office-topping theatrical films, including films from the “Madea” series; original series “House of Payne” and “Meet the Browns” and a selection of Perry’s stage plays.

In addition, the first BET+ original — “First Wives Club,” a new 10 episode scripted drama from acclaimed “Girls Trip” screenwriter Tracy Oliver — will debut on the service in the fall. The modern television remake of the classic 1996 revenge comedy starring Goldie Hawn, Bette Midler and Diane Keaton now stars an all-star African American cast including Jill Scott (“Why Did I Get Married”), Ryan Michelle Bathe (“This is Us,” “Empire”) and Michelle Buteau (“Isn’t It Romantic”). “First Wives Club” kicks off BET+’s slate of exclusive original programming that includes the premiere of a new series from blockbuster hit-maker Will Packer (“Ride Along,” “Think Like a Man”) and new original series from Tyler Perry and more.

The service will also feature a deep library of beloved series, films, and documentaries from BET Networks and the Viacom portfolio — including “Real Husbands of Hollywood,” “The New Edition Story,” “The Quad,” “College Hill,” “Comic View,” “Hell Date,” and more — most of which have not previously been available on streaming platforms.

BET+ will be available at launch on Android devices such as Samsung Galaxy, iOS devices such as the Apple iPad and iPhone, as well as other streaming devices.

BET’s new and current-window programming will continue to be available on BET’s linear network, including the newly-announced Tyler Perry original drama, “The Oval,” which will debut on BET as the first series under Perry’s multi-year content partnership with the network. With over 75 hours of new original content slated to premiere on BET over the next year, Perry’s line-up will also include another drama series, two comedy series, and a live holiday-themed production. BET fans will have additional access points to BET content on BET.com and the BET Now app for TV Everywhere users.

In addition, BET’s recently launched channel on Pluto TV, the leading free streaming television service in the U.S., will continue to feature hundreds of hours of classic films and box office hits from the best of black Hollywood.

For more information on BET+ visit bet.com/betplus.


ABOUT BET NETWORKS
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIA.B), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel is in nearly 85 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom, sub-Saharan Africa and France. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions including BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; BET HER (formerly CENTRIC), a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American woman; BET Music Networks - BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET’s growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET Networks around the globe.

ABOUT TYLER PERRY STUDIOS
Tyler Perry Studios is a state-of-the art film and television production facility founded in 2006 by actor, producer, filmmaker, playwright and philanthropist Tyler Perry. Located in Atlanta, Georgia on the historic grounds of the former Fort McPherson army base, the new 330-acre campus is one of the largest production studios in the country. It boasts a variety of shooting locations including 40 buildings on the national register of historic places, 11 purpose-built sound stages, 200 acres of green space and an expansive backlot.

ABOUT VIACOM
Viacom creates entertainment experiences that drive conversation and culture around the world. Through television, film, digital media, live events, merchandise and solutions, our brands connect with diverse, young and young at heart audiences in more than 180 countries.

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Tuesday, June 25, 2019

NatGeo Will Release "The Cave" Documentary Film Fall 2019

National Geographic Documentary Films Announces The Cave From Academy Award-Nominated Director Feras Fayyad

In Partnership With the Award-Winning Producing Team at Danish Documentary, The Cave Unveils the Harrowing True Story of an Underground Hospital in War-Torn Syria and the Inspirational Female Doctor Running It

The Cave Will Release in Theaters This Fall

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Following the recent greenlight announcements of Rebuilding Paradise from Academy Award-winning director Ron Howard and The Untitled Thai Cave Rescue Project (wt) from Academy Award-winning director Kevin Macdonald, National Geographic has announced it will continue to expand its feature documentary slate with The Cave.  This is a powerful new film about a hidden secret underground hospital in Syria and the unprecedented female-led team of civilians and medical professionals who are risking their lives to provide medical care to the besieged local population. The announcement comes as the Museum of the Moving Image prepares to honor National Geographic for its accomplishments over the past few years, including the success of its newly formed documentary film unit — which recently won the Oscar and BAFTA for Best Documentary Feature of 2018 for Free Solo.

    “Dr. Amani is a true hero. We are honored to share her story with the world and to ensure that her team’s unwavering dedication and commitment in the most horrendous of circumstances is witnessed by the largest global audience possible”

Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Feras Fayyad (“Last Man in Aleppo”) is directing The Cave, with Danish Documentary FilmsKirstine Barfod (“Venus”) and Sigrid Dyekjær (“Something Better to Come”) as producers, and Eva Mulvad (“A Modern Man”), Pernille Rose Grønkjær (“The Monastery”) and Mikala Krogh (“The Newsroom – Off the Record”) executive producing. The Cave is slated for a fall 2019 release.

The film follows 30-year-old Dr. Amani, an aspiring pediatrician forced to end her studies and medical training due to the devastating war in Syria, as she becomes the appointed leader of a team of 130 medical practitioners in the secret hospital serving the 400,000 civilians of the besieged city of Al Ghouta from 2012 to 2018. Due to the nonstop onslaught of conventional and chemical warfare, brutalized and displaced victims constantly flood the subterranean haven through secret entrances and an intricate network of tunnels. Despite the limited supply of medical resources, Dr. Amani and her team work tirelessly to restore health and hope.

“While I was detained by the Syrian regime for a critical film I made, I witnessed the suppression and torturing of women, an inhuman shameless pride of cruelty, in prison. Not only because they were prisoners but because they were women. I also observed one of the most atrocious war crimes in modern history when the Syrian regime used chemical weapons to attack Al Ghouta in 2013. These experiences were shockingly frightening and unforgettable, but even worse, the rest of the world looked on silently,” said Feras Fayyad. “I knew I had to challenge the inaction and I felt morally responsible to expose the effects of the war crimes. My vision for The Cave was to paint a human picture of the Syrian War through the eyes of these unsuspecting female heroes, and for the film to be a global call to action for response to this humanitarian crisis.”

“This is an important story for women today and for the coming generations. It is about women who want independence and change in life,” said Dr. Amani. “It is my hope that the more people see it, the closer we are to ending the war and achieving justice. Something has to change.”

“National Geographic Documentary Films, a brand with such a pristine reputation for powerful storytelling, has inspired us, and we are thrilled to be working together,” said Kirsten Barfod and Sigrid Dyekjær. “With their support, we too hope to bring as much attention as possible to the crisis in Syria and shed a light on the gender inequality in the region through Dr. Amani’s story.”

“Dr. Amani is a true hero. We are honored to share her story with the world and to ensure that her team’s unwavering dedication and commitment in the most horrendous of circumstances is witnessed by the largest global audience possible,” added National Geographic Documentary Films’ Carolyn Bernstein.

National Geographic Documentary Films has achieved remarkable success in a very short time. Most recently, the critically acclaimed film Free Solo won both the Academy Award and the BAFTA Award for Best Documentary Feature — in addition to CAS, MPSE, Critics’ Choice and Cinema Eye wins. In 2017, two films released under the Documentary Films banner, Jane and LA 92, made the Oscar shortlist for Best Documentary Feature, and both won Emmys: LA 92 for Special Merit and Jane for Best Director and Best Cinematography.

For National Geographic Documentary Films, executive producers are Carolyn Bernstein and Ryan Harrington. For National Geographic Channel, executive producer is Matt Renner.


About National Geographic Documentary Films
National Geographic Documentary Films is committed to bringing the world premium, feature documentaries that cover timely, provocative and globally relevant stories from the very best documentary filmmakers in the world. National Geographic Documentary Films is a division of National Geographic Partners, a joint venture between Disney and the National Geographic Society. Furthering knowledge and understanding of our world has been the core purpose of National Geographic for 131 years, and now we are committed to going deeper, pushing boundaries, going further for our consumers … and reaching millions of people around the world in 172 countries and 43 languages every month as we do it. NGP returns 27 percent of our proceeds to the nonprofit National Geographic Society to fund work in the areas of science, exploration, conservation and education. For more information visit natgeotv.com or nationalgeographic.com, or find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and Pinterest.

About Danish Documentary
For over a decade, Danish Documentary Production (founded in 2007) has been an international key player in the world of high-end cinematic documentary films. The company is run by three talented directors and their producer. The directors are Pernille Rose Grønkjær, behind such films as “The Monastery – Mr. Vig and the Nun” (IDFA winner), “Genetic Me” and “Hunting for Hedonia”; Eva Mulvad, who directed “A Modern Man,” “The Good Life” and “Enemies of Happiness” (Sundance and IDFA winner); and Mikala Krogh, director of “A Normal Life” (CPH:DOX audience award), “Cairo Garbage,” “Everything Is Relative” and “The Newsroom – Off the Record.” The producer who oversees the company is Sigrid Dyekjær, who has produced all of its recent films, along with several others as well.

About Feras Fayyad
The Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Feras Fayyad has directed and edited a number of films, both documentary and fiction; the latest, “Last Men in Aleppo” (2017) won the award for Best Current Affairs Documentary at the annual News and Documentary Emmy Awards in 2018. Fayyad has received international recognition for his work on contemporary Syrian issues and the political transformation of the Arab world.

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Monday, June 24, 2019

BOOM! Studios from Diamond Distributors for June 26, 2019

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APR190444    BATMAN BEYOND #33    $3.99
APR190445    BATMAN BEYOND #33 VAR ED    $3.99
MAR190493    BATMAN DAMNED #3 (OF 3) (RES) (MR)    $6.99
MAR190494    BATMAN DAMNED #3 (OF 3) VAR ED (RES) (MR)    $6.99
APR198794    BATMAN LAST KNIGHT ON EARTH #1 (OF 3) 2ND PTG (MR)    $5.99
APR190456    BOOKS OF MAGIC #9 (MR)    $3.99
NOV180596    DARK KNIGHTS METAL BATMAN THE MERCILESS STATUE    $85.00
NOV180595    DC DESIGNER SER SUPERGIRL BY STANLEY LAU STATUE    $150.00
MAY190003    DC PREVIEWS #15 JULY 2019 EXTRAS    $PI
APR190466    DETECTIVE COMICS #1006    $3.99
APR190467    DETECTIVE COMICS #1006 VAR ED    $3.99
APR190463    DIAL H FOR HERO #4 (OF 6)    $3.99
APR190472    FLASH #73    $3.99
APR190473    FLASH #73 VAR ED    $3.99
APR190480    HIGH LEVEL #5 (MR)    $3.99
APR190482    JUSTICE LEAGUE DARK #12    $3.99
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MAR190586    MAN OF STEEL BY BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS TP    $17.99
APR190491    MARTIAN MANHUNTER #6 (OF 12)    $3.99
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MAR190590    OLD LADY HARLEY TP    $16.99
MAR190598    SANDMAN TP VOL 09 THE KINDLY ONE 30TH ANNIV ED (MR)    $19.99
APR190503    SILENCER #18    $3.99
APR198795    SUPERMAN LEVIATHAN RISING SPECIAL #1 2ND PTG    $9.99
FEB190469    TEEN TITANS RAVEN TP DC INK    $16.99
APR190510    TERRIFICS #17    $3.99
APR190516    WONDER WOMAN #73    $3.99
APR190517    WONDER WOMAN #73 VAR ED    $3.99

Dynamite Entertainment from Diamond Distributors for June 26, 2019

DYNAMITE

MAR191074    ALTERED CARBON DOWNLOAD BLUES HC    $24.99
APR191029    BATTLESTAR GALACTICA TWILIGHT COMMAND #5 CVR A SCHOONOVER    $3.99
APR191030    BATTLESTAR GALACTICA TWILIGHT COMMAND #5 CVR B TAMURA    $3.99
APR191065    KISS END #3 CVR A SAYGER    $3.99
APR191066    KISS END #3 CVR B COLEMAN    $3.99
APR191067    KISS END #3 CVR C BUCHEMI    $3.99
APR191068    KISS END #3 CVR D PHOTO    $3.99
FEB191189    PROJECT SUPERPOWERS OMNIBUS TP VOL 02 BLACK TERROR    $29.99
APR191000    RED SONJA BIRTH OF SHE DEVIL #1 PARRILLO VIRGIN VAR    $50.00

IDW Publishing from Diamond Distributors for June 26, 2019

IDW PUBLISHING

FEB190751    BOX TP BOOK 01    $9.99
APR190645    CANTO #1 (OF 6) CVR A ZUCKER    $3.99
APR190642    CROW HACK SLASH #1 CVR A SEELEY    $3.99
FEB190658    DESCENDANTS GN VOL 01 TWISTED FIELD TRIP (RES)    $9.99
DEC180793    DIABOLICAL SUMMER HC    $24.99
APR190616    DICK TRACY FOREVER #3 CVR A OEMING    $3.99
APR190675    DISNEY AFTERNOON GIANT #5    $5.99
MAR190745    EVE STRANGER #2 BOND    $3.99
MAR198821    GHOST TREE #1 3RD PTG    $3.99
MAR198822    GHOST TREE #2 2ND PTG    $3.99
APR190641    GHOST TREE #3 CVR A GANE    $3.99
MAR190691    GLOW #3 CVR A TEMPLER    $3.99
APR190702    MARILYN MANOR #1 CVR A ZARCONE    $3.99
APR190670    MY LITTLE PONY SPIRIT OF THE FOREST #2 (OF 3) CVR A HICKEY (    $3.99
APR190671    MY LITTLE PONY SPIRIT OF THE FOREST #2 (OF 3) CVR B FLEECS (    $3.99
APR190700    PUNKS NOT DEAD LONDON CALLING #5 CVR A SIMMONDS    $3.99
MAR198823    ROAD OF BONES #1 (OF 4) 2ND PTG    $3.99
APR190640    ROAD OF BONES #2 CVR A CORMACK    $3.99
APR190595    TRANSFORMERS GHOSTBUSTERS #1 CVR A SCHOENING    $3.99
APR190596    TRANSFORMERS GHOSTBUSTERS #1 CVR B ROCHE    $3.99

Image Comics from Diamond Distributors for June 26, 2019

IMAGE COMICS

APR190114    ASCENDER #3 (MR)    $3.99
APR190116    BEAUTY #27 CVR A HAUN & FILARDI (MR)    $3.99
APR190117    BEAUTY #27 CVR B GORHAM & JENKINS (MR)    $3.99
JAN190290    DEADLY CLASS #39 CVR A CRAIG (MR)    $3.99
JAN190291    DEADLY CLASS #39 CVR B ASRAR (MR)    $3.99
APR190043    HARDCORE TP VOL 01 (MR)    $14.99
APR190146    HEAD LOPPER #12 CVR A MACLEAN    $5.99
APR190147    HEAD LOPPER #12 CVR B ALLISON    $5.99
MAR190215    ISOLA #8 CVR A KERSCHL    $3.99
MAR190216    ISOLA #8 CVR B STAPLES    $3.99
APR190154    KICK-ASS #15 CVR A FRUSIN (MR)    $3.99
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APR190156    KICK-ASS #15 CVR C REEDER (MR)    $3.99
APR198591    MIDDLEWEST #7 2ND PTG (MR)    $3.99
APR190078    OUTCAST BY KIRKMAN & AZACETA HC BOOK 03 (MR)    $39.99
APR190189    REDNECK #21 (MR)    $3.99
APR198592    SPAWN #297 2ND PTG    $2.99
APR190026    SPAWN #298 CVR A MCFARLANE    $2.99
APR190027    SPAWN #298 CVR B MCFARLANE VIRGIN    $2.99
APR190028    SPAWN #298 CVR C B&W MCFARLANE    $2.99
OCT180254    THIEF OF THIEVES #43 (MR)    $3.99
APR190204    WEATHERMAN VOL 2 #1 CVR A FOX (MR)    $3.99
APR190205    WEATHERMAN VOL 2 #1 CVR B ROBINSON (MR)    $3.99

Marvel Comics from Diamond Distributors for June 26, 2019

MARVEL COMICS

APR190895    AGE OF X-MAN X-TREMISTS #5 (OF 5)    $3.99
APR190824    AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #24    $3.99
APR190825    AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #24 BROOKS MARVELS 25TH TRIBUTE VAR    $3.99
APR190827    AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #24 COIPEL SPIDER-MAN SYMBIOTE SUIT VAR    $3.99
APR190751    AVENGERS #20 RIVERA MARVELS 25TH TRIBUTE VAR WR    $3.99
APR190750    AVENGERS #20 WR    $3.99
APR190860    BLACK PANTHER #13    $3.99
APR190861    BLACK PANTHER #13 MACK MARVELS 25TH TRIBUTE VAR    $3.99
APR190908    CONAN THE BARBARIAN #7    $3.99
APR190911    CONAN THE BARBARIAN #7 PACHECO MARVELS 25TH ANNIVERSARY VAR    $3.99
APR190864    DOCTOR STRANGE #15    $3.99
APR190869    FANTASTIC FOUR #11    $3.99
APR190871    FANTASTIC FOUR #11 ANACLETO SPIDER-MAN VAR    $3.99
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APR190839    FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD SPIDER-MAN #8    $3.99
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JAN191087    HEROES REBORN OMNIBUS HC    $125.00
APR190867    MAGNIFICENT MS MARVEL #4    $3.99
APR190868    MAGNIFICENT MS MARVEL #4 PAREL SPIDER-MAN VAR    $3.99
APR190889    MAJOR X #6 (OF 6)    $3.99
JAN191089    MARVEL COMICS HC WORLD OUTSIDE YOUR WINDOW    $50.00
APR190877    MARVEL COMICS PRESENTS #6    $4.99
MAY190002    MARVEL PREVIEWS VOL 04 #24 JULY 2019 EXTRAS    $1.25
APR190883    MARVEL RISING #4 (OF 5)    $3.99
APR190954    MARVEL VISIONARIES TP STAN LEE    $34.99
MAR190995    MARVELS POSTER BOOK TP    $24.99
APR190968    MASTER OF KUNG FU EPIC COLLECTION TP FIGHT WITHOUT PITY    $39.99
APR190881    MOON GIRL AND DEVIL DINOSAUR #44    $3.99
APR190957    MOON GIRL AND DEVIL DINOSAUR TP VOL 07 BAD DREAM    $15.99
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APR190976    NOT BRAND ECHH COMPLETE COLLECTION TP    $39.99
APR190977    PETER PORKER SPECTACULAR SPIDER-HAM COMPLETE COLLECT TP VOL    $39.99
APR190880    RUNAWAYS #22    $3.99
APR190816    SPIDER-MAN ANNUAL #1    $4.99
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APR190920    STAR WARS AOR DARTH VADER #1 MCKONE PUZZLE PC VAR    $3.99
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APR190975    STARJAMMERS TP    $29.99
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APR190853    THANOS #3 (OF 6)    $3.99
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APR190747    THOR #14 PUTRI MARVELS 25TH TRIBUTE VAR WR    $3.99
APR190746    THOR #14 WR    $3.99
FEB190995    TONY STARK IRON MAN TP VOL 02 STARK REALITIES    $17.99
APR190804    TRUE BELIEVERS MARVEL TAILS STARRING PETER PORKER #1    $1.00
APR190813    TRUE BELIEVERS SPIDER-MAN SPIDER-MAN VS MYSTERIO #1    $1.00
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APR190730    WAR OF REALMS #6 (OF 6) LUKE ROSS INTERNATIONAL VAR WR    $5.99
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APR190956    WEST COAST AVENGERS TP VOL 02 CITY OF EVILS    $17.99
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APR190900    X-MEN GRAND DESIGN X-TINCTION #2 (OF 2)    $5.99
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JAN191094    X-MEN HC EVE OF DESTRUCTION    $100.00
APR190972    X-MEN MILESTONES TP DARK PHOENIX SAGA    $24.99

Comic Books, Magazines and Books from Diamond Distributors for June 26, 2019

COMICS & GRAPHIC NOVELS

APR192162    20TH CENTURY BOYS TP VOL 04 PERFECT ED URASAWA    $19.99
MAR191335    ABERRANT SEASON 2 #4 (OF 5) CVR A LEON DIAS (MR)    $3.99
MAR191336    ABERRANT SEASON 2 #4 (OF 5) CVR B LEON DIAS (MR)    $3.99
APR191300    AFTERSHOCK SHOCK HC VOL 02    $34.99
APR192256    AGAIN GN VOL 09 (MR)    $12.99
APR191853    ALAY OOP GN    $24.95
APR198531    ALEXANDRIA OCASIO CORTEZ & FRESHMAN FORCE WHO DIS 2ND PTG    $5.99
APR192205    ALICE IN MURDERLAND HC VOL 11    $17.00
NOV171847    AMPED #1    $3.99
FEB191922    AMPED #1 WHITE WIDOW CVR    $9.99
FEB198304    ANGEL #2 CVR A MAIN    $3.99
FEB198897    ANGEL #2 CVR B PREORDER BUONCRISTIANO    $3.99
APR192355    APOSIMZ GN VOL 03    $12.95
APR191432    ARCHIE JUMBO COMICS DIGEST #300    $6.99
MAR191990    ART MASTERS SERIES GN VOL 07 BASQUIAT    $19.99
APR191817    AT THE END OF YOUR TETHER #1 (OF 3)    $4.99
APR192257    ATTACK ON TITAN SEASON THREE BOX SET VOL 02 (RES) (MR)    $54.95
APR191835    BATTLECATS VOL 2 #2    $3.99
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APR192259    BOARDING SCHOOL JULIET GN VOL 06    $10.99
FEB191991    BREAKNECK TP (MR)    $16.99
APR191712    BTTM FDRS HC (MR)    $24.99
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MAR191872    CATALYST PRIME SUMMIT #15    $3.99
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APR192053    VALIANT UNIVERSE HANDBOOK 2019    $3.99
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Review: "Bush's Brain" Also a Karl Rove Movie

TRASH IN MY EYE No. 51 (of 2006) by Leroy Douresseaux

Bush’s Brain (2004)
Running time:  80 minutes (1 hour, 10 minutes)
MPAA – PG-13 for brief strong language
PRODUCERS/DIRECTORS:  Joseph Mealey and Michael Shoob
WRITERS:  James C. Moore and Wayne Slater (based upon their book Bush’s Brain: How Karl Rove Made George W. Bush Presidential)
CINEMATOGRAPHER:  Joseph Mealey
EDITOR:  Tom Siiter

DOCUMENTARY

Starring:  Jacques Vroom (narrator), James C. Moore, Wayne Slater, Max Cleland, Richard Edgeworth, Bill Miller, Molly Ivins, Richard Leiby, Dave McNeely, and Glenn Smith

Bush's Brain is a 2004 political documentary film from writer-directors, Joseph Mealey and Michael Shoob.  The film is based on the 2003 nonfiction book, Bush’s Brain: How Karl Rove Made George W. Bush Presidential, from writers James C. Moore and Wayne Slater, who adapted their book for this film.  The film received a limited theatrical release on December 31, 2004, before becoming available on DVD in 2005.

Joseph Mealey and Michael Shoob's 2004 documentary, Bush’s Brain, takes a hard look at Karl RovePresident George W. Bush’s closest advisor, Rove has almost single-handedly shaped the policies of our nation under President Bush.  Rove has perhaps been the leading mind behind the “Republican revolution” since the mid-1990’s, and he has certainly changed the way the Republican Party runs its campaigns both nationally and locally.

However, Rove’s extremely close relationship to President Bush (who has called Rove his “boy genius”) has raised a question that disturbs some Americans, particularly those on the left of the political spectrum: Who really runs this country?  Is Bush an hand puppet and Rove the hand, or to put it nicely, is Bush a not too bright a mouthpiece for Rove’s political agenda?

Bush’s Brain features interviews with a number of journalists, reporters, and political pundits – many from Rove’s former base of operations, Texas.   A few of Rove’s former colleagues and opponents also weigh in on the man, and the directors also include much archival footage and material of Rove – who declined to be part of this film.

While Bush’s Brain does explore Rove’s political journey to the top of the heap as the presidential advisor (mostly through interviews of people who have worked for and against him), the film is soft on coverage of Rove’s part in the rise of George W. Bush from a man who frequently bankrupted the companies he began as a young businessman to a two-term governor of Texas and a two-term President of the United States.

This film, at 80 minutes, is probably about 40 minutes too short.  In order for Bush’s Brain to really explore Rove and his influence on President Bush, the film not only had to talk about the controversial 2000 Presidential elections, but also Rove’s influence on policy during Bush’s first term.  The film actually spends a little time on the Iraq War – not enough, but there is a lot more to Bush’s first term than a war.  Quite a bit of domestic policy changed – some of it at the behest of Bush’s religious supporters, some of it for corporate donors, and others for individual wealthy supporters.  Much of that likely had Rove’s fingerprints on it.

This film’s obsession with Iraq (which it shares with other film and TV about Bush) overshadows the social and political changes that the country has undergone since George W. Bush became President.  Rove’s fingerprints are also all over that.  Perhaps, the next Bush’s Brain could turn away from war and Rove’s alleged dirty tricks election campaigning and take a deeper look at national policy – post election scandal.  Still, what is here is quite good.  The talking heads that directors Mealy and Shoob parade before us are intelligent, engaging, and have some damn good Rove stories to tell – some sad and others quite pitiful and tragic.

7 of 10
B+

Thursday, March 09, 2006

Re-edited: Friday, June 21, 2019


The text is copyright © 2019 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for syndication rights and fees.


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Saturday, June 22, 2019

Negromancer News Bits and Bites from June 16th to 22nd, 2019 - Update #22

Support Leroy on Patreon:

MOVIES - From YahooEW:  Some believe that the movie poster for the 1992 Kevin Costner-Whitney Houston film, "The Bodyguard," is an iconic image.  But Costner says the woman he is holding in the image is not Whitney Houston, but is her body double.

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TELEVISION - From Deadline:  Tyler Perry's first TV series for BET (part of his multi-year content deal with Viacom) is a White House drama called "The Oval."

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COMICS-FILM - From Deadline:  "Transparent" creator, Jill Soloway, will write and direct Millennium Films' "Red Sonja" film, based on the comic book character inspired by a Robert E. Howard (Conan the Barbarian) character.  Soloway is replacing the disgraced Bryan Singer.

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BUSINESS - From Bloomberg:  The toy store chain, Toys "R" Us, is looking to make a come book in the United States for Christmas 2019, by opening six new stores.

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SCANDAL - From YahooNews:  There is a new twist in Oscar-winning actor Kevin Spacey's sexual assault case - text messages from the alleged victim.

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MOVIES - From YahooEntertainment:  There has reportedly been a stabbing on the Warner Bros. Studios U.K. set of "The Witches."  The film is remake of the previous film version of Roald Dahl's book of the same title.  News is describing the films as "a new Anne Hathaway movie."

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MOVIES - From Variety:  Screen Gems is eyeing a spinoff of its 210 hit film, "Easy A."  They hired Bert Royal, who wrote the first film, to write and direct the new one.

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MOVIES - From TheRinger:  "The Problem With IMDb’s Rating System" by Alyssa Bereznak

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MOVIES - From Variety:  Jermaine Fowler is set to be one of Eddie Murphy's co-stars in the "Coming to America" sequel, "Coming 2 America," which is set to be directed by Craig Brewer ("Hustle & Flow").

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SCANDAL - From TheDailyBeast:  Eight women have come forward to accuse Hollywood screenwriter, Max Landis ("Chronicle," "Bright") of various forms of abuse.

From IndieWire:  An analysis: "Max Landis should have been thrown out of Hollywood years ago."

From IndieWire:  Apparently, director Josh Trank banned Max Landis from the set of "Chronicle," a film Landis wrote and created with Trank.

From IndieWire:  Chloe Grace Moretz says her World War II horror film, "Shadow in the Cloud," has distanced itself from writer Max Landis and has been rewritten without him.

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AWARDS - From Deadline:  If you care, here are the "MTV Movie and TV Awards" winners.  "Avengers: Endgame" named "Best Movie" and "Game of Thrones" named "Best Show."

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MOVIES-TV - From Deadline:  WarnerMedia is reportedly closing in on a "megadeal," worth as much as $500 million, with J.J. Abrams to produce content for them.

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MOVIES - From Deadline:  "Hunger Games" author, Suzanne Collins, is working on a "Hunger Games" prequel novel and Lionsgate is in talks to develop it into a film.

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BOX OFFICE - From BoxOfficeMojo:  The winner of the 6/14 to 6/16/2019 weekend box office is "Men in Black: International" with an estimated take of 28.5 million dollars.

From Patreon:  Leroy Douresseaux's review of "Men in Black: International."

From Deadline:  "The Dead Don't Die" and "The Last Black Man in San Francisco" lead specialty box office.

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MOVIES - From THR:  Former child actor, Danny Lloyd ("The Shining"), now a college professor, reacta to the trailer for "Doctor Sleep," the sequel to "The Shining."  The trailer includes footage of Lloyd as child playing Danny Torrance in "The Shining," which was directed by the late Stanley Kubrick.

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ANIMATION - From Variety:  This is a piece on Warner Bros.' "Scoob," the upcoming reboot film of the "Scooby-Doo" movie series.  A "work-in-progress" version of the film was shown at the Annecy International Animated Film Festival in France.

OBITS:

From Variety:  Model and socialite, Gloria Vanderbilt, has died at the age of 95, Monday, June 17, 2019.  Vanderbilt may be best known for three things.  First, she was the subject of a high-profile custody case when she was a minor.  Secondly, as a fashion designer, she introduced a line of popular designer jeans.  Thirdly, she was the mother of CNN television anchor, Anderson Cooper.

From THR:  Legendary Italian filmmaker and director, Franco Zeffirelli, has died at the age of 96, Saturday, June 15, 2019.  Zeffirelli was best known for his lavish film adaptations of the works of William Shakespeare.  The most famous of those was his 1968 film, Romeo and Juliet, which received 4 Oscar nominations (including one for Zeffirelli as best director) and won two.

Nickelodeon Announce a Live-Action Space Series

Nickelodeon and Imagine Kids+Family Developing Original Live-Action Space Series

Daniel Knauf Joins as Series Showrunner, Writer and Executive Producer

Share it: @Nickelodeon

BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nickelodeon and Imagine Kids+Family are partnering to develop the original live-action series, Untitled Space Show (working title). Untitled Space Show will be showrun and written by Daniel Knauf (Carnivàle, The Blacklist) and centers around a group of kids who mistakenly launch into space. The series marks the first project co-produced by Nickelodeon and Imagine Kids+Family. Untitled Space Show will be executive produced by Imagine Entertainment Chairmen Brian Grazer and Ron Howard, Imagine Kids+Family President Stephanie Sperber, and Knauf. The production will be overseen by Shauna Phelan, Senior Vice President, Scripted Content for Nickelodeon and by creative executive Will Davis for Imagine Kids+Family.

    “Working with Brian, Ron and all the creative voices at Imagine to create this project for Nickelodeon is a dream come true”

In Untitled Space Show, an almost-finished spaceship is about to launch into space with the world’s leading scientists to investigate a mysterious asteroid passing by earth. After a dare gone wrong, a group of kids accidentally launch the ship, putting them in the path of an asteroid. Without any proper training, they embark on a journey of survival using their smarts and friendship as their tools, as their parents watch from back on earth and attempt to guide them to safety.

“Working with Brian, Ron and all the creative voices at Imagine to create this project for Nickelodeon is a dream come true,” said Brian Robbins, President, Nickelodeon. “They have an insatiable love for storytelling and content creation that resonates globally, and we’re excited to explore this new adventure together for kids and families.”

“We couldn’t be more excited to partner with Nickelodeon to expand upon Imagine’s legacy telling great stories set in space. Dan’s vision blends real science with compelling storytelling in a way that will engage young audiences around the world,” said Sperber.

Imagine has a rich history telling stories rooted in space adventure including the multiple Academy Award-winning film Apollo 13, the hybrid docuseries Mars for NatGeo, and the Emmy Award-winning series From The Earth To The Moon for HBO. Imagine Kids+Family was started in January of this year by Imagine Entertainment, and is run by Sperber. The division recently announced a partnership James Patterson’s kids division JIMMY Books, and with LIFE to develop LIFE for Kids, an animated series to bring history to life using images from the preeminent picture magazine.


About Imagine Entertainment
Imagine Entertainment was founded in 1986 by Brian Grazer and Ron Howard to create independently produced feature films, television programs and other original programming. Imagine’s productions have been honored with more than 60 prestigious awards including 43 Academy Award nominations and 195 Emmy® award nominations. Past productions include the Academy Award Best Picture winner A Beautiful Mind, as well as Grammy Award Best Film winner The Beatles: Eight Days A Week – The Touring Years. Additional films include Get on Up, Rush, J. Edgar, Frost/Nixon, American Gangster, The Da Vinci Code, Apollo 13, 8 Mile, Liar, Liar, Backdraft, and Parenthood to name a few. Recent films include The Spy Who Dumped Me staring Mila Kunis and Kate McKinnon which won of the 2018 People Choice Award for Best Comedy, and the upcoming documentary Pavarotti. Television productions include Fox’s Empire, Shots Fired and the 24 franchise, NatGeo’s Genius anthology series, MARS, and Breakthrough; NBC’s Parenthood and Friday Night Lights; Fox’s and Netflix’s Arrested Development, as well as HBO's From the Earth to the Moon, for which Howard and Grazer won the Emmy® for Outstanding Mini-Series. Current television projects in production include Wu-Tang: An American Saga (Hulu), Swagger (Apple), Why Women Kill (CBS All Access), and Filthy Rich (Fox). Ron Howard and Brian Grazer began their collaboration in 1985 with the hit comedies Night Shift and Splash, and continue to run Imagine Entertainment as chairmen. www.imagine-entertainment.com

About Nickelodeon
Nickelodeon, now in its 40th year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The brand includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, digital, location based experiences, publishing and feature films. For more information or artwork, visit http://www.nickpress.com. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIAB).

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Thursday, June 20, 2019

Nickelodeon Announces the Return of "Are You Afraid of the Dark?"

Nickelodeon Reimagines Beloved Anthology Are You Afraid of the Dark? As Brand-New Limited Series

Production to Begin this Month on Three-Night Event Premiering October

Share it: @Nickelodeon #AreYouAfraidoftheDark

BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nickelodeon is reimagining its chillingly beloved anthology, Are You Afraid of the Dark?, as a brand-new limited series premiering this October (2019). Through three hour-long episodes, the series introduces an entirely new Midnight Society group of kids who tell a terrifying tale about the Carnival of Doom, only to have the events of the story come to life. Production on the new Are You Afraid of the Dark? will commence this month in Vancouver, Canada.

The new members of the Midnight Society are: Gavin, played by Sam Ashe Arnold (Best.Worst.Weekend.Ever.); Akiko, played by Miya Cech (Rim of the World, Always Be My Maybe); Louise, played by Tamara Smart (Artemis Fowl, The Worst Witch); Graham, played by Jeremy Taylor (It, Goosebumps 2:Haunted Halloween); and Rachel, played by Lyliana Wray (Top Gun: Maverick, Black-ish). The Carnival of Doom’s ringmaster, Mr. Tophat, is played by Rafael Casal (Blindspotting).

The Are You Afraid of the Dark? limited series is produced by ACE Entertainment (To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before, The Perfect Date) with ACE founder Matt Kaplan and Spencer Berman serving as executive producers. The series is written by BenDavid Grabinski (Skiptrace) and directed by Dean Israelite (Power Rangers movie, Project Almanac), both of whom will also executive produce.

Inspired by the classic art of storytelling, Nickelodeon’s original Are You Afraid of the Dark? (series ran from 1992-1996 and 1999-2000) broke the mold by exploring a whole new genre of entertainment. One of the net’s most iconic series from the ‘90s, Are You Afraid of the Dark? delivered riveting stories of horror to young audiences, all from a kid’s perspective. Are You Afraid of the Dark? was created by D.J. MacHale and Ned Kandel.

Nickelodeon, now in its 40th year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The brand includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, digital, location based experiences, publishing and feature films. For more information or artwork, visit http://www.nickpress.com. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIAB).

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"LEGO City Adventures" Debuts Sat., July 22nd on Nickelodeon

Nickelodeon Debuts LEGO® City Adventures, Brand-New Animated Series on Saturday, June 22, at 11:30 a.m. (ET/PT)

Share it: @Nickelodeon @NickAnimation #Nickelodeon

BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nickelodeon and the LEGO Group today the all-new high-stakes CG-animated comedy series, LEGO® City Adventures, will premiere on Saturday, June 22, 2019, at 11:30 a.m. (ET/PT). A rollercoaster ride of fantastic fun, the series (10 episodes) depicts the funny, smart, and dynamic slices of life within the sprawling and diverse LEGO City community, following the absurd and action-packed adventures of its residents. Premieres continue Saturdays at 11:30 a.m. (ET/PT) on Nickelodeon.

    “We’re thrilled to partner with Nickelodeon for this important evolution of LEGO CITY given how well positioned they are to engage children and families with relevant programming.”

“LEGO CITY is our strongest evergreen property globally, and for the first time we are leveraging episodic content to establish characters and personalities that bring the city to life,” said Jill Wilfert, Vice President, Licensing & Entertainment for LEGO Group. “We’re thrilled to partner with Nickelodeon for this important evolution of LEGO CITY given how well positioned they are to engage children and families with relevant programming.”

“The LEGO brand is known for creating imaginative and innovative content for kids, and we are excited to collaborate with the LEGO Group to bring the unique characters, style and humor of LEGO City Adventures to life on Nickelodeon,” said Layla Lewis, SVP of Global Acquisitions and Content Partnerships, Nickelodeon.

LEGO City Adventures explores the intertwining paths of the city's everyday heroes as they work together to stop a mysterious master criminal who begins to wreak havoc on their town. In the premiere episode “Cubs and Robbers,” a movie promotion stunt goes wrong, unleashing a humongous ‘Cubby the Cop’ balloon on the city. Then, in “Billy the Bug,” Fire Chief McCloud accidentally buys a malfunctioning Twirly Hat for her nephew.

Citizens of LEGO City introduced throughout the series include: Sergeant Duke DeTain (Joe Zieja, Call of Duty: Black Ops 4), an overly heroic cop; Freya McCloud (Misty Lee, DC Super Hero Girls), a crisis-ready fire chief; Shirley Keeper (Alex Cazares, The Loud House), the grumpy street sweeper; Harl Hubbs (Daniel MK Cohen, Fixed), an overeager handyman; Tippy Dorman (James Arnold Taylor, Star Wars: The Clone Wars), an expert doorman with a secret; Solomon Fleck (Roger Craig Smith, Avengers Assemble), the dedicated city mayor; Percival “Wheelie” Wheeler (Mick Lauer, Yu-Gi-Oh! Zexal), a skateboarding police chief and more.

Created and produced by LEGO Group, LEGO City Adventures is also produced by Flaunt Animation (Scotland) and Passion Pictures (France) and written by Jon Colton Barry (Phineas and Ferb), Steven Banks (SpongeBob SquarePants), Jamie Moyer (Modern Family) and Brian Hunt (Second City Chicago). Jason Oliveri is the executive in charge of LEGO City Adventures for Nickelodeon.

Following its U.S. launch, the series will roll out on several of Nickelodeon’s international territories in fall 2019.


About Nickelodeon
Nickelodeon, now in its 40th year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The brand includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, digital, location based experiences, publishing and feature films. For more information or artwork, visit http://www.nickpress.com. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIAB).

About The LEGO Group
The LEGO Group is a privately held, family-owned company with headquarters in Billund, Denmark, and main offices in Enfield, USA, London, UK, Shanghai, China, and Singapore. Founded in 1932 by Ole Kirk Kristiansen, and based on the iconic LEGO® brick, it is one of the world's leading manufacturers of play materials. Guided by the company spirit: "Only the best is good enough”, the company is committed to the development of children and aims to inspire and develop the builders of tomorrow through creative play and learning. LEGO products are sold worldwide and can be virtually explored at www.LEGO.com. For more news from the LEGO Group, information about our financial performance and responsibility engagement, please visit http://www.LEGO.com/aboutus.

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Tuesday, June 18, 2019

Review: "Us" Comes After Us

TRASH IN MY EYE No. 5 (of 2019) by Leroy Douresseaux

[This review was originally posted on Patreon.]

Us (2019)
Running time: 116 minutes (1 hour, 56 minutes)
MPAA – R for violence/terror, and language
WRITER/DIRECTOR:  Jordan Peele
PRODUCERS:  Jason Blum, Ian Cooper, Sean McKittrick, and Jordan Peele
CINEMATOGRAPHER:  Mike Gioulakis
EDITOR:  Nicholas Monsour
COMPOSER: Michael Abels

HORROR with elements of mystery and thriller

Starring:  Lupita Nyong'o, Winston Duke, Elisabeth Moss, Tim Heidecker, Shahadi Wright Joseph, Evan Alex, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Anna Diop, Cali Sheldon, Noelle Sheldon, Madison Curry, Ashley McKoy, and Napiera Groves

Us is a 2019 horror film written and directed by Jordan Peele.  The film focuses on a family terrorized by group of doppelgängers.

Adelaide Wilson (Lupita Nyong'o) is married to an ambitious man, Gabriel “Gabe” Wilson (Winston Duke), and the couple has two precocious children, daughter Zora (Shahadi Wright Joseph) and son Jason (Evan Alex).  When she was a child, young Adelaide (Madison Curry) had a terrifying experience at the boardwalk at Santa Cruz beach after she wandered away from her parents and entered a hall of mirrors.  Now, something from her past has returned,  “Red” and “Tethered,” it threatens her family and everything she believes.

I consider Jordan Peele's Get Out to be a landmark film, with its allusions to the dangers people of color, especially African-Americans, face in America.  When you get past that, Get Out is also a clever allegory to the enslavement and exploitation of black people by white people.

Jordan Peele's new film, the much anticipated Us, is one I think that I will spend days... or even longer... unpacking.  Saying that this film has themes of oppression, the crisis of human existence, and the difficulty of really knowing even the people closest to you is just to scratch the surface.  This movie is multi-layered and rife with allegories, metaphors, and symbolism, so much so that I think that some commentators have bought in too much to the idea that this film's most dominate idea is that we are our own worst enemies.  The film does indeed point that out, but much of this film's narrative delves into the nature of evil and the suffering of the oppressed.  One might even describe this film as being about a slave insurrection, but that might be a bit too much of a stretch for some viewers, especially those who think Green Book is just the movie we need for these times in America.

That aside, Us is truly a horror movie, almost like a slasher film with a few touches of apocalyptic fiction.  The chase – the pursuit of the victim(s) by the killer(s) – has never been done the way Peele does it in Us.  Peele does what only a skilled horror movie director can do, put us right there with Adelaide and her family as they run away from a threat that not only wants to kill them, but also wants to enjoy some torture time before the stabbing and screaming.  Us' killers are as relentless as Jason Voorhees and Michael Myers.  [Meanwhile, Biblical foreboding suggests that an even larger danger looms.]  I don't think any other horror movie has made a pair of scissors as scary as Us does, although there have been some gruesome moments featuring scissors in horror movies going back decades.  Peele makes scissors scarier than horror movie machetes, axes, and large kitchen knives.

As Us' “scream queen” (of a sort), Lupita Nyong'o gives a riveting and hypnotic performance as Adelaide.  I must say that if a horror movie lead every deserved an Oscar nomination, Lupita certainly deserves one for her turn as Adelaide.  The great actress Kathy Bates won a best actress Oscar for playing Annie Wilkes in Rob Reiner's film, Misery (1990), which was based on a Stephen King novel.  With that in mind, Lupita deserves at least an Oscar nomination.

I don't think that Us is quite on par with Get Out, but Us is equally (if not more) thought-provoking.  What does it all mean?  I guess in the end the meaning is all up to Us.

9 of 10
A+

Friday, March 22, 2019


The text is copyright © 2019 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

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