Showing posts with label J.K. Rowling. Show all posts
Showing posts with label J.K. Rowling. Show all posts

Thursday, August 4, 2016

J.K. Rowling Currently Writing Second "Fantastic Beasts" Film

The Next Film in the “Fantastic Beasts” Series is in the Works, Being Written by J.K. Rowling

The Next Adventure Will Open Worldwide on November 16, 2018

The “Fantastic Beasts” Film Series Adds to the Global Expansion of J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World

BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As anticipation builds for the November 18th, 2016 release of Warner Bros. Pictures’ adventure “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them,” the Studio has announced plans to return to J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World for the next film in the series, slated for worldwide release on November 16, 2018. The announcement was made today by Greg Silverman, President, Creative Development and Worldwide Production, and Sue Kroll, President, Worldwide Marketing and Distribution, Warner Bros. Pictures.

Wizarding world creator J.K. Rowling, who made her screenwriting debut on the first film, is scripting the sequel.

The second “Fantastic Beasts” movie moves deeper into an increasingly dark time for the wizarding world, where Newt and our other heroes have to decide on their allegiances.

Director David Yates (the final four “Harry Potter” films) will again take the helm, having recently completed work on “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.” The new film will also reunite producers David Heyman, J.K. Rowling, Steve Kloves and Lionel Wigram. Neil Blair, Rick Senat and Danny Cohen will serve as executive producers.

The “Fantastic Beasts” franchise is an important part of J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World, a brand which continues to expand. The new play, “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Parts One and Two,” has just opened to rave reviews in London, drawing rapturous applause in sold out performances, and the script of the play, just published, has already seen unprecedented sales for a script book. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter theme parks at Universal Studios in Orlando, Hollywood and Osaka, Japan, continue to entertain record crowds and Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter offers another extremely popular experience for fans of all ages. There is much more on the horizon, all highlighting that the global interest in J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World in every medium is stronger than ever.

The “Fantastic Beasts” films will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.

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Wednesday, August 3, 2016

"Harry Potter" Event a Big Hit for Books-a-Million

‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’ Midnight Book Release Marks Largest Attended Event in Books-A-Million History

Midnight magic festivities honored eighth installment of JK Rowling’s best-selling fictional series

BIRMINGHAM, Ala.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As a premier book retailing chain in the United States, Books-A-Million celebrated the official script book release of “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – Parts I & II,” the theatrical eighth installment of JK Rowling’s best-selling Harry Potter series, on Saturday, July 30, 2016, in its more than 260 locations across the country. Today, Books-A-Million management is pleased to announce the Harry Potter Midnight Release Party was the largest attended event in the company’s almost 100-year history! In addition to the book reveal at midnight, the magical evening featured Harry Potter trivia, Marauder’s Map scavenger hunts, wand crafts, costume contests and more spellbinding festivities!

    Harry Potter Midnight Release Party was the largest attended event in @booksamillion almost 100-year history!

“The release of ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’ was not only the biggest book launch of the year, but it was also our most pre-ordered book since ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows’ debuted in 2007,” said Scott Kappler, Vice President of Marketing at Books-A-Million. “Saturday’s Harry Potter Midnight Release Party served as a true celebration of community, as generations of Potter fans came together for a literary phenomenon that has captivated the world for almost two decades, and we are honored to have been a part of the magic!”

For Potter fans who were unable to attend the book release on Saturday, “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – Parts I & II,” as well as the complete Harry Potter book series, is now available in-store or online at www.booksamillion.com.


ABOUT BOOKS-A-MILLION
Books-A-Million, headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, is the second largest chain of bookstores in the United States. Books-A-Million got its start in 1917 as a magazine stand in Florence, Alabama and now operates over 250 stores in the 32 states as well as an online store at http://www.booksamillion.com. While Books-A-Million’s presence has grown, the goal has remained the same: to serve each community with the best selection of books, toys, tech and more, all at great prices. Find the nearest Books-A-Million at http://www.booksamillion.com/storefinder.

Follow Books-A-Million on Twitter (http://twitter.com/booksamillion) and like us on Facebook (http://facebook.com/booksamillion).

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Saturday, July 16, 2016

Negromancer News Bits and Bites from July 10th to 16th, 2016 - Update #52

Support Leroy on Patreon

POLITICS - From TPM:  Presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump announces Indiana Governor Mike Pence as his running mate.

From RollingStone:  Why Mike Pence is the absolute worse.

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TELEVISION - From MassLive:  Stephen Colbert and Jon Stewart reunite to cover the 2016 Republican National Convention.

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COMICS - From IGN:  Do right by the X-Men comics franchise!

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COMICS - From YahooMovies:  New photos of Gal Gadot as Wonder Woman - one with Chris Pine.

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SPORTS - From NBA:  Oh, no!  Los Angeles Lakers young stallion, Larry Nance, Jr., suffers a probably hand fracture.

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SPORTS -  From YahooSports:   New England Patriots Super Bowl champion quaterback, Tom Brady, gives up on his "Deflage-gate" lawsuit.

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MOVIES - From TheGuardian:  Chiwetel Ejiofor in talks to join Rooney Mara and Joaquin Phoenix in the film "Mary Magdalene."  Ejiofor would play Peter the Apostle.

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RACE - From YahooTV:   D.L. Hughley rips into FOX News' Megyn Kelly.

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EMMYS - From YahooTV:  "Game of Thrones" leads the 2016 Emmy nominations with 23 nominations.

From YahooTV:  A complete list of 2016 Emmy Award nominations.

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MOVIES - From EW:   First look at Jude Law and Charlie Hunnam in Guy Ritchie's "King Arthur."

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MOVIES - From EW:  See this first look at "Pennywise the Clown" as played by Bill Skarsgard in the latest adaptation of Stephen King's It - due in theaters Sept. 2017.

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RACE - From TheGuardian:  Eve Ensler - It's time for white people to reckon with racism.

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COMICS - From GMAYahooNews:  Marvel kills of Bruce Banner in comic book, "Civil War II #3."

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BLACK LIVES MATTER - From YahooNews:  Even U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-South Carolina), an African-America, has felt the sting of the long arm of the law - both Capitol Police and law enforcement.

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MOVIES - From MovieWeb:  "Saw 8" to beginning shooting in the Fall, likely in Canada.

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COMICS - From BleedingCool:  See Keiynan Lonsdale as "Kid Flash," appearing in the upcoming season of "Flash."

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GAMES - From Deadline:  Who is going to catch the rights to the hot franchise, "Pokemon."

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MOVIES - From EW:  Sigourney Weaver talks about the fate of "Ellen Ripley" in the stalled "Alien" sequel.

HARRY POTTER - From Gamespot:  J.K. Rowling reveals why Uncle Dursley hated Harry Potter.

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TELEVISION - From BuzzFlash:  The time David Letterman called Donald Trump a racist.

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COMICS - From Variety:  FOX, the broadcast network, is entering the Marvel Universe with an "X-Men" action-adventure television series.  It co-produced with Marvel, and FOX is committed to a producing a pilot.  Bryan Singer, Simon Kinberg, and Marvel's Jeph Loeb are among executive producers.  Matt Nix is writing.

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MOVIES - From TheWrap:  The new all-girl "Ghostbusters" has a post-credit scene.

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SPORTS - From YahooStyle:  Serena Williams breaks "tradition" and wears sandals to the Wimbledon champions dinner.

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MOVIES - From Variety:  Oscar-winner Javier Bardem to pick up a paycheck from Universal by appearing in its "Frankenstein" reboot.

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MOVIES - From IndieWire:  Ubisoft chief says the movie based on his company's game, "Assassin's Creed," will not make money.

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SPORTS - From YahooSports:  NBA legend, champion, and star, Tim Duncan, has announced his retirement.  He won five championships with the San Antonio Spurs, the only team he played for.

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BOX OFFICE - From BoxOfficeMojo:  "The Secret Life of Pets" won the 7/8 to 7/10/2016 weekend box office with a $103.17 million estimated opening.  This is the largest domestic opening weekend for an original animated property.

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OBITS - From the BBC:  American journalist Sydney Schanberg has died at the age of 82, Saturday, July 9, 2016.  His work in Cambodia inspired the Oscar-winning film, "The Killing Fields."

MOVIES - From Collider:  First set photo images of Sofia Boutella as the titular monster in the upcoming Tom Cruise reboot of "The Mummy."

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From BleedingCool:  "Child's Play" is returning to home video.

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From IndieWire:  Goldie Hawn will return to movies for the first time since 2002 in an adventure movie with Amy Schumer.

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MUSIC - From IndieWire:  Ray Parker, Jr., who wrote the song "Ghostbusters" for the original film has mixed feelings about the new "Ghostbusters" theme.

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SPORTS - From YahooSports:  Serena Williams wins the 2016 Wimbledon Women's Single title - her 7th Wimbledon singles' title.  This is her 22nd Grand Slam singles championship, which ties her with Steffi Graf for the most in professional tennis' "Open era" (which began in 1968).  The all-time women's Grand Slam singles champ is Margaret Court with 24.

From YahooSports:  Later, Serena joined her sister Venus Williams to win the 2016 Wimbledon Women's Doubles Championship - their sixth.

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The Killing of #AltonSterling and #PhilandoCastille and #Dallas:

From Newsone:  The NRA will not defend Black and brown gun owners because they are not the organization's constituency.

From Truthout:  The system that killed Alton Sterling and Philando Castille cannot be reformed.

From RSN:  Beyonce says "respect our lives."

From YahooNews:  Pa. police officer picks up tab of guy who refused to sit next to him and his fellow officers in a diner.

From Clevelanddotcom:  NFL running back, Isaiah Crowell (Cleveland Browns), posted this horrible and violent image against police officers.
From YahooSports:  Now, it will cost Crowell a game check.

From TheIntercept:  Baton Rouge police reponse to #AltonSterling protests is complete militarization.  The world is watching.

From ESPN:  Four cops who were working a WNBA Minnesota Lynx game leave over T-shirts the players wore.

From YahooNews:  This buzzed-about photo from the #AltonSterling protests in Baton Rouge is quite popular and maybe iconic and may one day be legendary.

From CSM:  First use of a robot to kill a suspect in U.S. history.

From RSN:  Marc Ash: I blame the police

From RiverFrontTimes:  A young police officer ambushed during a traffic stop.  There is a Go Fund Me page for him.

From Baton Rouge Advocate:  Baton Rouge police say out-of-towners (i.e. outside-agitators) are making Alton Sterling demonstrations more violent.

From RSN:  The President Is Wrong About Dallas, Wrong About Race

From TheGuardian:  NRA afraid to support some Black gun owners?

From Metro:  London stands with #BlackLivesMatter

From WashPost:  New information on NYPD road-rage killing.

From WashPost:  Let's agree that Rudy Giulani needs to shot dead.

From Truthout:  The problem is over-policing.

From telSUR:  Four Latinos killed by police this week, and America really didn't notice.

TRAILERS-VIDEOS:

From FoxMovies:  The new trailer for Warren Beatty's film, "Rules Don't Apply."

From Facebook:  Idris Elba adds a finishing touch to a "Star Trek Beyond" mural painted on the side of a building in London by artist Jim Vision.


Saturday, June 11, 2016

Negromancer News Bits and Bites from June 5th to 11th, 2016 - Update #50

Support Leroy on Patreon.

COMICS - From CinemaBlend:  Mark Ruffalo on the changing dynamic between Hulk and Bruce Banner in "Thor: Ragnarok" (Thor 3).

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COMICS - From JustJared:  Set photos from "Wolverine" with bearded Hugh Jackman.

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OBIT/MUSIC - From YahooMusic:  22-year-old Christina Grimmie, who finished third on NBC's singing competition, "The Voice" (in 2014), was shot and killed at a concert venue in Orlando, Florida, Friday, June 10, 2016.

From YahooNews:  Christina Grimmie's killer has been identified.

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MOVIES - From THR:  Mel Gibson and writer Randall Wallace are working on a sequel to "The Passion of the Christ."

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SPORTS/CRIME - From YahooNews:  Stanford rapist, Brock Turner, banned for life by USA Swimming.  A competitive swimmer for Stanford, Turner had apparently planned on competing for a spot on the U.S. Olympic swimming team.

From YahooNews:  Rape friendly judge, Aaron Persky, also was a student-athlete at Stanford - just like Brock Turner to whom Persky gave a slap-on-the-pinky sentence for sexual assault.

From YahooNews:  Some jurors have refused to serve Judge Aaron Persky.

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SPORTS - From YahooSports:  Trying to be one of the guys, Tampa Bay Rays and Orlando Magic sideline reporter, Emily Austen, dropped some racist comments.  It cost her her job.

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MOVIES - From Variety:  Angelina Jolie interested in "Murder on the Orient Express" remake.

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COMICS - From CinemaBlend:  Sharon Stone drops more clues about her upcoming role in a Marvel movie.

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JAMES BOND - From Forbes:  Will Warner Bros. end up as the new distributor of James Bond films, with Christopher Nolan directing at least one Bond feature?

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OBITS - From YahooSports:  Legendary professional hockey player, Gordie Howe, "Mr. Hockey," has died at the age of 88, Friday, June 10, 2016.  Howe played 26 years in the NHL and six in the WHL.  He won four Stanley Cups with the Detroit Red Wings.

From YahooSports: World reacts to the death of Gordie Howe.

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HARRY POTTER - From Deadline:  Here is a review of the first preview performance of "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child."

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MOVIES - From Deadline:  Universal is making a film adaptation of "Battlestar Galactica," apparently the original 1978 version (and not the 2003-reboot).  Director Francis Lawrence is reportedly interested in helming the film.

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MOVIES - From Variety:  Jennifer Lawrence joins director Adam McKay (The Big Short) for a drama.

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CRIME - From BuzzFeed:  The Stanford rape victim's releases her "Victim Impact Statement."

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BLACK LIVES MATTER - From RSN:  Black Lives Matter activist, Jazmine Richards, jailed.

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POLITICS - From YahooNews:  Barack Obama endorses Hillary Clinton.

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COMICS - From THR:  Michael B. Jordan seems to confirm that he will be in Marvel's "Black Panther."

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MOVIES - From ScreenRant:  Word on the cinematic streets is that Chris Nolan will crash a vintage WWII plane during the filming of "Dunkirk."

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MOVIES - From Deadline:  Ron Howard and Brian Grazer are working on an adaptation of the science fiction novel, "Seveneves," for Skydance.

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PIXAR - From YahooMovies:  More new clips from "Finding Dory."

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COMICS - From YahooMovies:  Oscar-winner actor, J.K. Simmons (Whiplash) has gotten buffed and shredded for his role in the "Justice League" movie.

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COMICS - From TheWrap:  Warner Bros.' "Suicide Squad" movie earns a rating of PG-13.

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BOX OFFICE - From FlickeringMyth:  "Warcraft" opens huge in China, and passes $100 million worldwide.

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COMICS - From Deadline:  Sacha Baron Cohen is apparently interested in playing the lead role in a film adaptation of the newspaper comic strip, "Mandrake the Magician."

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ECO - From Truthout:  Two actors associated with the "Star Trek," James Cromwell and John "J.G." Hertzler, are arrested for an anti-fossil fuel protest.

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COMICS - From YahooFinance:  Are high-value comic books a better investment than the stock market?

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MOVIES - From TheGuardian:  Tom Hiddleston said he doubts that he will succeed Daniel Craig as James Bond.

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MOVIES - From CinemaBlend:  Eddie Murphy and Brett Ratner teaming up for Netflix mockumentary.

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COMICS - From CinemaBlend:  The title of the third Wolverine movie, which is supposed to be the last time Hugh Jacksman plays the characters, is rumored to be titled "Weapon X."

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MOVIES - From YahooCelebrity:  Meryl Streep lathers her face in orange, wears a fat suit with a ridiculously long tie and lampoon Donald Trump.

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SPORTS/OBITS: - From ESPN:   MMA (mixed martial arts) sensation and legend, Kimbo Slice, has died at the age of 42, Monday, June 6, 2016.

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MOVIES - From Deadline:  John Boyega is the lead in the "Pacific Rim" sequel.

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COMICS - From Deadline:  The fall-scheduled "Reborn" comic book might be the next hot Hollywood property from comic book writer, Mark Millar.

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MOVIES - From YahooTech:  Vin Diesel shows off cast photo from "Fast 8."

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CRIME - From YahooStyle:  Stanford rapist, Brock Turner, is at the head of a truly awful case.  He gets off with a slap on the pinky.

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MUSIC - From YahooMusic:  ABBA performs together on stage for the first time in 30 years.

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TELEVISION - From YahooFinance:  John Oliver, host of "Last Week Tonight," buys about $15 million dollars of medical debt from besieged people.

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AWARDS - From YahooMovies:  At the 10th Spike TV Guy's Choice Awards, Matt Damon and Ben Affleck tease their bromance.

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BOX OFFICE - BoxOfficedMojo:  The winner at the 6/3 to 6/5/2016 weekend box office is "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows" with an estimated take of $35.25 million.

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BOOKS - From Truthout:  The beloved lesbian vampire returns in a new printing of "The Gilda Stories.

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STAR TREK - From ScreenRant:   The CBS "Star Trek" revival adds familiar Trek scribes to its writing staff.

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HARRY POTTER:  From People:  J.K. Rowling does not care what the racists thinks.  She gives her blessing to actress Noma Dumezweni, who is black, playing a grown up Hermoine Granger in the play, "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child."

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Muhammad Ali:

From Wikipedia:  Muhammad Ali's page.

From RSN:  Thousands mourn Ali.

From YahooSports:  Live streaming and memorable moments from Muhammad Ali's funeral.

From YahooSports:  Louisville mourns its native son, Muhammad Ali.

From YahooSports:  Ali to be honored at a public funeral on Friday, June 10, 2016.

From TheNewYorker:  David Remnick on the outsized life of Ali.

From YahooSports:  The "Ali Summit" (in which Ali announced that he would not serve in the Vietnam War) was a transformational moment in U.S. history.

From Variety:  Celebrities and athletes pay tribe to Ali.

From CBB:  Johnny Bullet webcomic offers an extra episode honoring Muhammad Ali.

From RollingStone:  The legacy of Muhammad Ali and his enemies.

From LATimes:  There will never be another Muhammad Ali.

From RSN:  Ali's biggest win - in the Supreme Court.



Tuesday, March 8, 2016

J.K. Rowling Introduces Audiences to Magic in North America

New Original Writing by J.K. Rowling Invites Audiences to Explore the Wizarding World of North America on Pottermore.com

A Video That Serves as a Prologue to the New Writing Debuted Today, Setting the Scene for the Upcoming Feature Film “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them”

BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Leading up to the November 18th, 2016 release of Warner Bros. Pictures’ highly anticipated feature “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them,” J.K. Rowling has crafted a collection of new original writing entitled Magic in North America, to introduce audiences to a new place and time in the wizarding world that she has created.

The first installment, “History of Magic in North America,” was introduced with the global launch of a 100-second specially produced video that serves as a prologue to the new original writing by J.K. Rowling. The writing will be posted on pottermore.com over four consecutive days beginning Tuesday, March 8th, 2016, at 6 a.m. PST. These four pieces will enlighten readers about a previously unexplored corner of the wizarding world: North American witches and wizards, their history and their magic. The video broke simultaneously on selected media sites around the world and links viewers to “History of Magic in North America,” which will soon be available exclusively at pottermore.com.

The video and the writing provide context and backstory for the feature film “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.”

Rowling, who first conceived the wizarding world in her enormously popular Harry Potter books, had introduced wizards and witches from other parts of Europe in the series, most notably in the Quidditch World Cup and Triwizard Tournament. However, this marks the first time we’ll learn the fascinating story of the history of magic in North America.


About “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them”:
“Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” is an all-new adventure returning us to the wizarding world created by J.K. Rowling. Oscar winner Eddie Redmayne (“The Theory of Everything”) stars in the central role of wizarding world magizoologist Newt Scamander, under the direction of David Yates.

“Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” opens in 1926 as Newt Scamander has just completed a global excursion to find and document an extraordinary array of magical creatures. Arriving in New York for a brief stopover, he might have come and gone without incident…were it not for a No-Maj (American for Muggle) named Jacob, a misplaced magical case, and the escape of some of Newt’s fantastic beasts, which could spell trouble for both the wizarding and No-Maj worlds.

“Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” also stars Katherine Waterston, Dan Fogler, Alison Sudol, Ezra Miller, Samantha Morton, Jon Voight, Ron Perlman, Carmen Ejogo, Jenn Murray, Faith Wood-Blagrove, and Colin Farrell.

The film marks the screenwriting debut of J.K. Rowling, whose script was inspired by the Hogwarts textbook Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, written by her character Newt Scamander.

The film reunites a number of people from the “Harry Potter” features, including producers David Heyman, J.K. Rowling, Steve Kloves and Lionel Wigram.

Opening November 18, 2016, “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.

About J.K. Rowling
J.K. Rowling is the author of the bestselling Harry Potter series of seven books, published between 1997 and 2007, which have sold over 450 million copies worldwide, are distributed in more than 200 territories and translated into 79 languages, and have been turned into eight blockbuster films.

She has written three companion volumes in aid of charity: Quidditch Through the Ages and Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them in aid of Comic Relief; and The Tales of Beedle the Bard in aid of her children’s charity Lumos.

In 2012, J.K. Rowling’s digital entertainment and e-commerce company, Pottermore, was launched, where fans can enjoy her new writing and immerse themselves deeper in the wizarding world.

Her first novel for adult readers, The Casual Vacancy, was published in September 2012 and adapted for TV by the BBC in 2015. Her crime novels, written under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith, were published in 2013 (The Cuckoo’s Calling), 2014 (The Silkworm) and 2015 (Career of Evil), and are to be adapted for a major new television series for BBC One, produced by Brontë Film and Television.

J.K. Rowling’s 2008 Harvard commencement speech was published in 2015 as an illustrated book, Very Good Lives: The Fringe Benefits of Failure and the Importance of Imagination, and sold in aid of her charity Lumos and university–wide financial aid at Harvard.

In addition to making her screenwriting debut with the film “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them,” J.K. Rowling is currently collaborating on a stage play, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Parts I & II, which will open in London’s West End in the summer of 2016. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is a new play by Jack Thorne, based on an original new story by J.K. Rowling, Jack Thorne and John Tiffany.

About Pottermore:
Pottermore, the digital publishing, e-commerce, entertainment and news company from J.K. Rowling, is the global digital publisher of Harry Potter and J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World. As the digital heart of J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World, pottermore.com is dedicated to unlocking the power of imagination. It offers news, features, and articles as well as new and previously unreleased writing by J.K. Rowling.

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Friday, December 11, 2015

"Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them" Announcement Trailer Announced

Announcement Trailer for “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” to Be Unveiled Worldwide on December 15th

BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Warner Bros. Pictures will debut the first announcement trailer for the much-anticipated adventure “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” via worldwide satellite on Tuesday, December 15, 2015. The trailer will give audiences the first glimpse at a never-before-seen part of the wizarding world created by J.K. Rowling.

Visit http://bit.ly/FantasticBeastsAnnouncementTrailerTease for a tease of the announcement trailer.

“Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” is an all-new adventure returning us to the wizarding world created by J.K. Rowling.

Academy Award-winner Eddie Redmayne (“The Theory of Everything”) stars in the central role of wizarding world magizoologist Newt Scamander, under the direction of David Yates, who helmed the last four “Harry Potter” blockbusters.

“Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” opens in 1926 as Newt Scamander has just completed a global excursion to find and document an extraordinary array of magical creatures. Arriving in New York for a brief stopover, he might have come and gone without incident…were it not for a No-Maj (American for Muggle) named Jacob, a misplaced magical case, and the escape of some of Newt’s fantastic beasts, which could spell trouble for both the wizarding and No-Maj worlds.

“Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” also stars Katherine Waterston (“Steve Jobs,” “Inherent Vice”) as Tina; Tony Award-winner Dan Fogler (“The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee”) as Jacob; Alison Sudol (“Dig,” “Transparent”) as Tina’s sister, Queenie; Ezra Miller (“Trainwreck”) as Credence; two-time Oscar nominee Samantha Morton (“In America,” “Sweet and Lowdown”) as Mary Lou; Oscar winner Jon Voight (“Coming Home,” TV’s “Ray Donovan”) as Henry Shaw, Sr.; Ron Perlman (the “Hellboy” films) as Gnarlack; Carmen Ejogo (“Selma”) as Seraphina; Jenn Murray (“Brooklyn”) as Chastity; young newcomer Faith Wood-Blagrove as Modesty; and Colin Farrell (“True Detective”) as Percival Graves.

The film marks the screenwriting debut of J.K. Rowling, whose beloved Harry Potter books were adapted into the top-grossing film franchise of all time. Her script was inspired by the Hogwarts textbook Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, written by her character Newt Scamander.

The film reunites a number of people from the “Harry Potter” features, including producers David Heyman, J.K. Rowling, Steve Kloves and Lionel Wigram.

Collaborating with Yates behind the scenes are: Oscar-winning director of photography Philippe Rousselot (“A River Runs Through It,” the “Sherlock Holmes” movies), three-time Oscar-winning production designer Stuart Craig (“The English Patient,” “Dangerous Liaisons,” “Gandhi,” the “Harry Potter” films), three-time Oscar-winning costume designer Colleen Atwood (“Chicago,” “Memoirs of a Geisha,” “Alice in Wonderland”), Oscar-winning visual effects supervisor Tim Burke (“Gladiator,” the “Harry Potter” films), Oscar-nominated visual effects supervisor Christian Manz (“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1”), and Yates’ longtime editor Mark Day (the last four “Harry Potter” films).

“Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” is being filmed at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden, which was home to the “Harry Potter” films for a decade. Some scenes were also shot on location in Liverpool, England.

Warner Bros. Pictures has slated “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” for worldwide release in 2D and 3D in select theatres and IMAX on November 18, 2016.

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Negromancer News Bits and Bites from December 6th to 12th, 2015 - Update #22

Support Leroy on Patreon.

NEWS:

From BleedingCool:  "The Hateful Eight" was originally conceived as a novel starring Django.

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From Deadline:  Ron Howard updates "Arrested Development" Season 5.

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From BuzzFlash:  J.K. Rowling says Donald Trump is worse than Lord Voldemort.

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From Vulture:  Idris Elba may have the lead in the adaptation of Stephen King's "Dark Tower."

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From YahooTV:  2015 Golden Globe nominations.

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From TheWrap: SAG nominations.

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From IndieWire:  David Oyelowo to play Muhammad Ali for Ang Lee.

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From TheHollywoodReporter:  An article about the upcoming debuts and features at the 2016 Sundance Film Festival.

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From Deadline:  Queen Latifah to star in Lee Daniels project for Fox.

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From Vulture:  Bill Murray will play a dog in a Wes Anderson stop-motion film.

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From BoxOfficeMojo:  The winner of the 12/4 to 12/6/2015 box office is "The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part Two," the film's third straight weekend at the top.

From TheHollywoodReporter:  The performance of holiday-themed horror film, "Krampus," surprised with its second place finish at the weekend box office ($16 million).  I was not surprised, and I thought it might actually gross a little more.  "Chi-raq" is reportedly a huge hit in Chicago, the setting of Spike Lee's film.

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From GoldDerby:  Director Sean Baker and star Mya Taylor talk about their buzzed-about film, "Tangerine."

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From Variety:  Ethan Hawke joins Luc Besson's "Valerian."


COMICS - Films and Books:

From Variety:  Cate Blanchett in talks to join Marvel's "Thor: Ragnarok."


MOVIE AWARD SEASON:

From Deadline: African-American Film Critics name "Straight Outta Compton" best picture.

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From TheHollywoodReporterLos Angeles Film Critics Association names "Spotlight" the best film of the year.  However, "Mad Max: Fury Road" wins in three category, including "Best Director" for George Miller.  It was the runner-up in two categories, including the "Best Film" category.

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From TheHollywoodReporterThe Boston Society of Film Critics names "Spotlight" the best picture of 2015.

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From TheHollywoodReporter:  Alex Garland's "Ex Machina" is named Best British Independent Film at the 2015 British Independent Film Awards, and dominates with 4 wins.


STAR WARS:

From YahooMovies:  Have a seat, John Boyega tells William Shatner.

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From YahooTV:  While in Australia promoting "The Force Awakens," Harrison Ford responds to his fan, Donald Trump.


TRAILERS:

From YouTube:  Official "X-Men Apocalypse" trailer.

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From Vulture:  First trailer for Warner Bros.' "The Legend of Tarzan."

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From Deadline:  The debut trailer for Spielberg's "The BFG."


Tuesday, August 18, 2015

"Fantastic Beasts" Begins Shooting in England

Filming Gets Underway on “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them”

Much-anticipated new film, written by wizarding world creator J.K. Rowling and being directed by David Yates, starts production in England

BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Principal photography has begun on Warner Bros. Pictures’ highly anticipated feature “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.” The all new adventure is set in the wizarding world created by J.K. Rowling in her best-selling Harry Potter books, which were adapted into the highest-grossing film franchise of all time.

Filming started Monday, August 17, 2015, at Warner Bros. Studios, Leavesden, under the direction of David Yates, who helmed the last four “Harry Potter” feature films.

Academy Award winner Eddie Redmayne (“The Theory of Everything”) stars as Newt Scamander, the wizarding world’s preeminent magizoologist, who stops in New York following his travels to find and document magical creatures.

“Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” also stars Katherine Waterston (“Inherent Vice”) as Tina; Alison Sudol (“Dig,” “Transparent”) as Tina’s sister, Queenie; Tony Award winner Dan Fogler (“The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee”) as Jacob; Ezra Miller (“Trainwreck”) as Credence; two-time Oscar nominee Samantha Morton (“In America,” “Sweet and Lowdown”) as Mary Lou; Jenn Murray (“Brooklyn”) as Chastity; young newcomer Faith Wood-Blagrove as Modesty; and Colin Farrell (“True Detective”) as Graves.

Marking the screenwriting debut of J.K. Rowling, the script was inspired by her character Newt Scamander’s Hogwarts textbook, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.

The film is being produced by David Heyman, producer of all eight of the blockbuster “Harry Potter” features; J.K. Rowling; Steve Kloves; and Lionel Wigram.

Collaborating with Yates behind the scenes are: Oscar-winning director of photography Philippe Rousselot (“A River Runs Through It,” the “Sherlock Holmes” movies), three-time Oscar-winning production designer Stuart Craig (“The English Patient,” “Dangerous Liaisons,” “Gandhi,” the “Harry Potter” films), three-time Oscar-winning costume designer Colleen Atwood (“Chicago,” “Memoirs of a Geisha,” “Alice in Wonderland”), Oscar-winning visual effects supervisor Tim Burke (“Gladiator,” the “Harry Potter” films), Oscar-nominated visual effects supervisor Christian Manz (“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1”), and Yates’ longtime editor Mark Day (the last four “Harry Potter” films).

Warner Bros. Pictures has slated “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” for worldwide release in 3D and IMAX on November 18, 2016.

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Tuesday, June 16, 2015

Katherine Waterston Joins "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them"

Katherine Waterston Set to Star Opposite Eddie Redmayne in “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them”

BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Katherine Waterston (“Inherent Vice”) will star opposite Eddie Redmayne in Warner Bros. Pictures’ much-anticipated adventure “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them,” set in J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World. The announcement was made by Greg Silverman, President of Creative Development and Worldwide Production, Warner Bros. Pictures.

    “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them”

Waterston will play the pivotal role of Tina, short for Porpentina, a witch who—unlike the beloved characters from Rowling’s Harry Potter books—works her magic in the U.S. She meets magizoologist Newt Scamander (Redmayne) when he stops in New York City on his travels to find and document magical creatures.

In making the announcement, Silverman said, “Katherine Waterston is a rising star, who was a revelation in our film ‘Inherent Vice,’ earning the praise of both critics and audiences. We are thrilled to have her back in the Warner Bros. family, especially in one of our most anticipated titles for 2016, ‘Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.’”

David Yates (director of the last four “Harry Potter” films) will direct from J.K. Rowling’s screenplay, inspired by Newt Scamander’s Hogwarts textbook Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. Ms. Rowling is an acknowledged authority on all things magical, having authored the Harry Potter series of books.

The film is being produced by David Heyman, producer of all eight of the blockbuster “Harry Potter” features; J.K. Rowling; Steve Kloves, who scripted all but one of the “Harry Potter” films; and Lionel Wigram, who served as an executive producer on the last four installments of the franchise.

Katherine Waterston recently starred in Paul Thomas Anderson’s acclaimed film “Inherent Vice,” for which she shared in an Independent Spirit Award for Best Ensemble. She also stars in the upcoming biopic “Steve Jobs,” under the direction of Danny Boyle. Her other credits include the award-winning HBO series “Boardwalk Empire,” and the films “The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby,” “Night Moves,” “Being Flynn,” “Taking Woodstock” and “Michael Clayton.”

Warner Bros. Pictures has slated “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” for worldwide release in 3D and IMAX on November 18, 2016.

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Saturday, June 13, 2015

Negromancer News Bits and Bites for the Week of June 7th to 13th, 2015 - Update #8


Posted by Leroy Douresseaux; you can support him on Patreon.

NEWS:

From YahooTV:  Jurassic World is apparently about to take over the world... box office.

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From ColliderPixar has apparently replaced the entire voice cast (except maybe one actor) of The Good Dinosaur, which is due in December 2015.  

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From Variety:  The great British actor, Christopher Lee, died on Sunday, June 7, 2015 at the age of 93.  He is probably best known as the actor who revitalized Dracula in the 1958, Horror of Dracula.  He was the 20th Century's second most famous screen Dracula.

Young fans will know him for his appearances in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films.  He was a James Bond villain in The Man with the Golden Gun.  He was "Count Dooku" in the second and third films of Star Wars prequel trilogy.  He was a close friend of one of my favorite actors, Peter Cushing (who died in 1994).  I believe that they are reunited.

From IMDb:  Christopher Lee: A Life in Pictures.
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From THR:  Apparently, Sony still wants "Bad Boys 3."  Joe Carnahan is circling to work on the script and to direct.  Michael Bay directed the first two films in the series.

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From THR:  The new comedy, Spy, wins the 6/5 to 6/7/2015 weekend box office with an estimated take of $30 million.  The Paul Reig film stars Melissa McCarthy.

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From CinemaBlend:  J.K. Rowling offers clues about an American wizarding school.


COMICS - Films and Books

From Collider:  Marvel and Sony at odds over which actor will be the next Spider-Man, apparently, my fave, Asa Butterfield, is out.

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From Vulture:  Someone else takes a shot at writing a screenplay adaptation of one of the greatest manga and comic books of all time, Akira.

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From YahooTech:  Joseph Gordon-Levitt says his "Sandman" film won't be a typical superhero film.


TRAILERS:

From YouTube:  The new trailer for Ridley Scott's "The Martian."


OBIT:

From Variety via YahooMovies:  The actress, Mary Ellen Trainor, died May 20, 2015 at the age of 62.  She appeared in numerous movies, including The Goonies, Die Hard, and all four Lethal Weapon movies, among many.


Tuesday, June 2, 2015

Warner Bros. Announces Eddie Redmayne as "Newt Scamander"

Oscar Winner Eddie Redmayne Enters the Wizarding World as Newt Scamander in “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them”

BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Academy Award-winning actor Eddie Redmayne has been cast as Newt Scamander in Warner Bros. Pictures’ much-anticipated wizarding world adventure “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.” The announcement was made today by Greg Silverman, President of Creative Development and Worldwide Production, Warner Bros. Pictures.

    “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.”
Redmayne will play J.K. Rowling’s creation Newt Scamander, the Wizarding World’s preeminent magizoologist, who in his travels has encountered and documented a myriad of magical creatures, ultimately leading to his penning the Hogwarts School textbook Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.

In making the announcement, Silverman said, “Eddie Redmayne has emerged as one of today’s most extraordinarily talented and acclaimed actors. We are thrilled to welcome him into J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World, where we know he will deliver a remarkable performance as Newt Scamander, the central character in ‘Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.’”

Making her screenwriting debut on the film, J.K. Rowling has developed the character of Scamander and his primer—taken from her globally beloved Harry Potter series—to further explore the unique wizarding world she has crafted in print and bring it to life on screen.

David Yates, who directed the last four “Harry Potter” films and will direct “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them,” stated, “Eddie is a fearless actor, brimming with invention, wit and humanity. I couldn’t be more excited about the prospect of working with him as we start this new adventure in J.K. Rowling’s wonderful world, and I know she feels the same way.”

The film is being produced by David Heyman, producer of all eight of the blockbuster “Harry Potter” features; J.K. Rowling; Steve Kloves, who scripted all but one of the “Harry Potter” films; and Lionel Wigram, who served as an executive producer on the last four installments of the franchise.

Eddie Redmayne won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in the 2014 biopic “The Theory of Everything.” His stunning portrayal of Stephen Hawking in that film also brought him Screen Actors Guild, BAFTA and Golden Globe Awards. In 2012, Redmayne starred as Marius in Tom Hooper’s screen adaptation of the hit musical “Les Misérables,” with Hugh Jackman, Anne Hathaway, Russell Crowe and Amanda Seyfried. In 2010, Redmayne won a Tony Award for his performance in “Red,” which marked his Broadway debut. On screen, he next stars in Hooper’s true-life drama “The Danish Girl,” due out this November.

Warner Bros. Pictures has slated “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” for worldwide release in 3D and IMAX on November 18, 2016.

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Saturday, January 24, 2015

Negromancer News Bits and Bites: January 18th to 24th, 2015 - Updated #15


NEWS:

From Variety:  Quentin Tarantino begins shooting "The Hateful Eight."

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From YahooTV:  Seth Rogen responds exclusively to the outrage about his American Sniper comments.

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From TheGuardian:  J.K. Rowling slapped back at Rupert Murdoch's bigotry.

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From YahooNews:  Free Mark Wahlberg!

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From YahooNewsMichael Moore speaks on American Sniper - He says that he was taught that snipers were cowards, because his uncle was killed in WWII by a sniper.

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From YahooNews:  Seth Rogen also has thoughts on American Sniper, referencing Inglourious Basterds.

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From TPM:  The Oakland Tribune's front page headline read, "And the Oscar for best Caucasian goes to...

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From Variety via YahooMovies:  In its first full week of release, American Sniper wins the January 16th to 18th, 2015 weekend box office with an estimated take of $90.2 million.  This is also the Martin Luther King holiday weekend, so totals will go up.

From YahooMoviesTaya Kyle, the widow of American Sniper SEAL, Chris Kyle, struggled with the idea of someone playing her late husband on screen.

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From HuffingtonPost:  Star Trek's troubling 50th anniversary.


COMIC BOOKS:

From TheVox:  Bryan Singer announces the new actors who will play Storm, (Alexandra Shipp), Jean Grey (Sophie Turner), and Cyclops (Tye Sheridan).


STAR WARS:

From CinemaBlend:  Disney ditches George Lucas' ideas for Star Wars 7.

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From CinemaBlend:  Actress hunt for Star Wars spin-off films.

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From CinemaBlend:  George Lucas' at one time predicted the future for Star Wars.

----------------------
From YahooMovies:  George Lucas has finally seen the trailer for Star Wars: The Force Awakens.


MISC:

From ComcastSportsnet:  Now you know what it feels like to be Kobe.

Saturday, September 14, 2013

J.K. Rowling and Warner Bros. Announce New Films

Warner Bros. Announces Expanded Creative Partnership with J.K. Rowling

Rowling to Make Screenwriting Debut on “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them,” the First in a New Film Series

Partnership Spans All Areas of Warner Bros.’ Harry Potter Businesses, Including Theme Parks, Digital Initiatives, Games and Visitor Attractions

Plus Studio to Serve as Global International TV Distributor of J.K. Rowling’s Upcoming Adaptation of her Book “The Casual Vacancy” for the BBC

BURBANK, Calif. & LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Warner Bros. Entertainment today announced an expanded creative partnership with world-renowned, best-selling author J.K. Rowling. At the center of the partnership is a new film series from Rowling’s world of witches and wizards, inspired by Harry Potter’s Hogwarts textbook “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” and the adventures of the book’s fictitious author, Newt Scamander. The announcement was made by Kevin Tsujihara, Chief Executive Officer, Warner Bros. Entertainment.

“Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” will be an original story and will mark Rowling’s screenwriting debut. It is planned as the first picture in a new film series. Set in the wizarding world, the story will feature magical creatures and characters, some of which will be familiar to devoted Harry Potter fans.

“Although it will be set in the worldwide community of witches and wizards where I was so happy for seventeen years, ‘Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them’ is neither a prequel nor a sequel to the Harry Potter series, but an extension of the wizarding world,” said Rowling. “The laws and customs of the hidden magical society will be familiar to anyone who has read the Harry Potter books or seen the films, but Newt’s story will start in New York, seventy years before Harry’s gets underway.” (Expanded Rowling quote at bottom of release.)

“We are incredibly honored that Jo has chosen to partner with Warner Bros. on this exciting new exploration of the world of wizardry which has been tremendously successful across all of our businesses,” said Tsujihara. “She is an extraordinary writer, who ignited a reading revolution around the world, which then became an unprecedented film phenomenon. We know that audiences will be as excited as we are to see what her brilliant and boundless imagination conjures up for us.”

In addition to the film series, “Fantastic Beasts” will also be developed across the Studio’s video game, consumer products and digital initiatives businesses, including enhanced links with Pottermore.com, Rowling’s digital online experience built around the Harry Potter stories.

The Studio’s expanded partnership with Rowling also covers the continued expansion of its Harry Potter activities, including the wonderful Wizarding World of Harry Potter theme parks in conjunction with partner Universal Parks and Resorts (currently in Orlando, FL; opening in Hollywood, CA and Osaka, Japan), digital initiatives (including Pottermore), video games, consumer products and visitor attractions.

In addition, Warner Bros. will serve as the worldwide TV distributor (excluding the U.K.) of J.K. Rowling’s upcoming television adaptation for the BBC of “The Casual Vacancy,” her best-selling first novel aimed at adult audiences. This miniseries begins production in 2014.

The relationship will be managed in London by Neil Blair of The Blair Partnership, Rowling’s literary agency, and Josh Berger, President & Managing Director, Warner Bros. UK, Ireland and Spain, who will serve as Warner Bros.’ chief business contact for all J.K. Rowling initiatives going forward.

Rowling’s expanded quote regarding “Fantastic Beasts” is below:

“It all started when Warner Bros. came to me with the suggestion of turning ‘Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them’ into a film. I thought it was a fun idea, but the idea of seeing Newt Scamander, the supposed author of ‘Fantastic Beasts,’ realized by another writer was difficult. Having lived for so long in my fictional universe, I feel very protective of it and I already knew a lot about Newt. As hard-core Harry Potter fans will know, I liked him so much that I even married his grandson, Rolf, to one of my favourite characters from the Harry Potter series, Luna Lovegood.

As I considered Warners’ proposal, an idea took shape that I couldn’t dislodge. That is how I ended up pitching my own idea for a film to Warner Bros.

Although it will be set in the worldwide community of witches and wizards where I was so happy for seventeen years, ‘Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them’ is neither a prequel nor a sequel to the Harry Potter series, but an extension of the wizarding world. The laws and customs of the hidden magical society will be familiar to anyone who has read the Harry Potter books or seen the films, but Newt’s story will start in New York, seventy years before Harry’s gets underway.

I particularly want to thank Kevin Tsujihara of Warner Bros. for his support in this project, which would not have happened without him. I always said that I would only revisit the wizarding world if I had an idea that I was really excited about and this is it.”

ABOUT:
1) J.K. Rowling is the author of the bestselling Harry Potter series of seven books, published between 1997 and 2007, which have sold over 450 million copies worldwide, are distributed in more than 200 territories, translated into 74 languages, and have been turned into eight blockbuster films. She has also written two small volumes, which appear as the titles of Harry’s schoolbooks within the novels. Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them and Quidditch Through the Ages were published by Bloomsbury Children’s Books in March 2001 in aid of Comic Relief. In December 2008, The Tales of Beedle the Bard was published in aid of the Children’s High Level Group (now known as Lumos), and quickly became the fastest-selling book of the year. In 2012, J.K. Rowling published her first book for adults, The Casual Vacancy, which has since been published in 44 languages. J.K. Rowling has also written The Cuckoo's Calling under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith, which was published this year by Little, Brown.

2) Warner Bros.’ Harry Potter films have grossed more than $7.7 billion to date worldwide at the box office, making Harry Potter the largest-grossing film franchise in history. The Harry Potter franchise has also been successfully extended across the Studio’s television, home entertainment, consumer products, video game, digital initiatives and visitor attractions businesses.



Tuesday, February 7, 2012

"Harry Potter" Wins Big at 2012 Art Directors Guild Awards

The Art Directors Guild (ADG) is an American labor union and also a branch of the International Alliance of Theatrical and Stage Employees (IATSE) that represents motion picture and television professionals. Among the ADG’s sponsored activities are a film society and the Annual ADG Awards.

The ADG has announced the nominations for their 16th Annual Excellence in Production Design Awards. The winners were announced Saturday, February 4, 2012.

16th Annual (2012) Excellence in Production Design Awards winners:

Period Film:
HUGO Production Designer: Dante Ferretti

Fantasy Film
HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS PART 2 Production Designer: Stuart Craig

Contemporary Film
THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO Production Designer: Donald Graham Burt

In addition, the guild
• presented a lifetime achievement award to Tony Walton
• inducted Robert Boyle, William Darling and Alfred Junge into its hall of fame

This year's Art Directors Guild Cinematic Imagery Award will be presented to the principal team behind the Harry Potter films, including producers David Heyman and David Barron; directors Christopher Columbus, Alfonso Cuaron, Mike Newell, David Yates; creator and author J.K. Rowling; screenwriters Steve Klove and Michael Goldenberg; production designer Stuart Craig; art director Neil Lamont; and set decorator Stephenie McMillan.

NOMINEES FOR EXCELLENCE IN PRODUCTION DESIGN IN TELEVISION:

One-Hour Single Camera Television Series
"Boardwalk Empire" (Episode: 21) Production Designer: Bill Groom

Television Movie or Miniseries
"Mildred Pierce" Production Designer: Mark Friedberg

Episode of a Half Hour Single-Camera Television Series
"Modern Family" (Episode: Express Christmas) Production Designer: Richard Berg

Episode of a Multi-Camera, Variety, or Unscripted Series
"Saturday NIght Live" (Episode: host Justin Timberlake) Production Designers: Keith Ian Raywood, Eugene Lee, Leo Yoshimura, N. Joseph De Tullio

Awards, Music, or Game Shows
83rd Annual Academy Awards Production Designer: Steve Bass

Commercials and Music Videos:
"Activision: Call of Duty" (Episode: Modern Warfare 3) Production Designer: Neil Spisak

Thursday, January 5, 2012

Art Directors Guild Announces Nominations; Harry Potter Honored

The Art Directors Guild (ADG) is an American labor union and also a branch of the International Alliance of Theatrical and Stage Employees (IATSE) that represents motion picture and television professionals. Among the ADG’s sponsored activities are a film society and the Annual ADG Awards.

The ADG has announced the nominations for their 16th Annual Excellence in Production Design Awards. The ceremony announcing winners will take place Saturday, February 4, 2012 at the International Ballroom of the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills. Paula Poundstone will serve as host for the third consecutive year.

16th Annual (2012) Excellence in Production Design Awards nominations:

Period Film:
THE ARTIST Production Designer: Laurence Bennett
HUGO Production Designer: Dante Ferretti
THE HELP Production Designer: Mark Ricker
ANONYMOUS Production Designer: Sebastian Krawinkel
TINKER TAYLOR SOLDIER SPY Production Designer: Maria Djurkovic

Fantasy Film
HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS PART 2 Production Designer: Stuart Craig
CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE FIRST AVENGER Production Designer: Rick Heinrichs
THE ADVENTURES OF TIN TIN: THE SECRET UNICORN Production Designer: TBD
PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: ON STRANGER TIDES Production Designer: John Myhre
COWBOYS & ALIENS Production Designer: Scott Chambliss

Contemporary Film
THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO Production Designer: Donald Graham Burt
THE DESCENDANTS Production Designer: Jane Anne Stewart
EXTREMELY LOUD & INCREDIBLY CLOSE Production Designer: K.K. Barrett
DRIVE Production Designer: Beth Mickle
BRIDESMAIDS Production Designer: Jefferson Sage

In addition, the guild will

• present a lifetime achievement award to Tony Walton

• induct Robert Boyle, William Darling and Alfred Junge into its hall of fame

This year's Art Directors Guild Cinematic Imagery Award will be presented to the principal team behind the Harry Potter films, including producers David Heyman and David Barron; director David Yates; creator and author J.K. Rowling; screenwriter Steve Kloves; production designer Stuart Craig; art director Neil Lamont; and set decorator Stephenie McMillan.

Thursday, August 11, 2011

Harry Potter 8 Now Third Highest Grossing Film Ever

“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2” is the Number One Film of 2011

The finale of the series is the top-grossing film domestically and internationally

BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Continuing to make box office magic, Warner Bros. Pictures’ “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2” has now become the top-grossing release of 2011 in all categories: domestic box office, international box office and worldwide box office. The announcement was made today by Warner Bros. Pictures President of Domestic Distribution, Dan Fellman, and President of International Distribution, Veronika Kwan-Rubinek.

The last installment of the blockbuster motion picture franchise has broken numerous box office records around the world in just under a month since its July opening. As of August 8, the film had earned $344.8 million domestically and $801.5 million internationally, for an astounding worldwide box office gross of $1.146 billion, making “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2” the third-highest-grossing film worldwide of all time.

Veronika Kwan-Rubinek stated, “‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2’ can truly be called a global phenomenon. The filmmakers and cast, who dedicated their talents to the success of these films for over a decade, share in this piece of cinema history. We congratulate and thank them all.”

Dan Fellman said, “This is another incredible milestone for the last chapter of this historic film series, and for the Harry Potter franchise as a whole. In a crowded and very competitive summer, it is a tribute to both the film and the people behind it that moviegoers are still turning out to enjoy it—whether for the first time or for a repeat viewing.”

“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2” is the final adventure in the Harry Potter film series. In the epic finale, the battle between the good and evil forces of the wizarding world escalates into an all-out war. The stakes have never been higher and no one is safe. But it is Harry Potter who may be called upon to make the ultimate sacrifice as he draws closer to the climactic showdown with Lord Voldemort. It all ends here.

Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson reprise their roles as Harry Potter, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger. The film’s ensemble cast also includes Helena Bonham Carter, Robbie Coltrane, Warwick Davis, Tom Felton, Ralph Fiennes, Michael Gambon, Ciarán Hinds, John Hurt, Jason Isaacs, Matthew Lewis, Gary Oldman, Alan Rickman, Maggie Smith, David Thewlis, Julie Walters and Bonnie Wright.

The film was directed by David Yates, and produced by David Heyman, David Barron and J.K. Rowling. Steve Kloves adapted the screenplay, based on the novel by J.K. Rowling. Lionel Wigram is the executive producer.

“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2” is the first Harry Potter film to be released in both 3D and 2D. Concurrently with its nationwide theatrical distribution, the film is being released in select IMAX® theatres. The film is being distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company. It has been rated PG-13 for some sequences of intense action violence and frightening images.

http://www.harrypotter.com/

Tuesday, August 2, 2011

Harry Potter 8 Becomes Ninth Film to Gross a Billion Dollars in Worldwide Box Office

“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2” Crosses $1 Billion Threshold

The last is now first, as the finale becomes the top-grossing title in the film series.

BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Continuing its record-breaking run, Warner Bros. Pictures’ “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2” has surpassed $1 billion at the worldwide box office, becoming the first in the series—and just the ninth film in cinema history—to reach that benchmark. The announcement was made today by Warner Bros. Pictures President of Domestic Distribution, Dan Fellman, and President of International Distribution, Veronika Kwan-Rubinek.

Adding to the records already achieved, “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2” tied the record for the fastest climb to $1 billion. The finale of the blockbuster motion picture franchise crossed the billion dollar mark on Sunday, July 31, only its 17th day in release in North America, as well as most international markets. The film has now earned an estimated $318.46 million domestically and an estimated $690 million on the international side for a worldwide total to date of approximately $1.008 billion, already making it, globally, the top-grossing film in Warner Bros. Pictures’ history.

Dan Fellman stated, “What’s truly astounding is that these kinds of numbers are being achieved so early in the film’s release. The movie’s excellent reviews, outstanding word-of-mouth and repeat business will ensure that Harry Potter will be charming moviegoers for months to come.”

Veronika Kwan-Rubinek remarked, “To say that the global response to the film has been extraordinary would be an understatement. We are so proud that this last film in the series has not only reached such heights but has reached them in record time. It is now Warner Bros.’ most successful release ever, and there is still plenty more to come.”

“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2” is the final adventure in the Harry Potter film series. In the epic finale, the battle between the good and evil forces of the wizarding world escalates into an all-out war. The stakes have never been higher and no one is safe. But it is Harry Potter who may be called upon to make the ultimate sacrifice as he draws closer to the climactic showdown with Lord Voldemort. It all ends here.

Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson reprise their roles as Harry Potter, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger. The film’s ensemble cast also includes Helena Bonham Carter, Robbie Coltrane, Warwick Davis, Tom Felton, Ralph Fiennes, Michael Gambon, Ciarán Hinds, John Hurt, Jason Isaacs, Matthew Lewis, Gary Oldman, Alan Rickman, Maggie Smith, David Thewlis, Julie Walters and Bonnie Wright.

The film was directed by David Yates, and produced by David Heyman, David Barron and J.K. Rowling. Steve Kloves adapted the screenplay, based on the novel by J.K. Rowling. Lionel Wigram is the executive producer.

“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2” is the first Harry Potter film to be released in both 3D and 2D. Concurrently with its nationwide theatrical distribution, the film is being released in select IMAX® theatres. The film is being distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company. It has been rated PG-13 for some sequences of intense action violence and frightening images.

http://www.harrypotter.com/

Friday, July 22, 2011

Harry Potter Film Series Passes $7 Billion in Worldwide Box Office

Harry Potter Film Franchise Surpasses $7 Billion Milestone

The finale continues to break global box office records, as it further solidifies the series’ standing as the top-grossing franchise of all time.

BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--With “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2” still in the first week of its record-breaking run, the Harry Potter film franchise has now crossed the $7 billion mark worldwide, and counting. The announcement was made today by Jeff Robinov, President, Warner Bros. Pictures Group.

“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2” has earned an astounding $640.2 million worldwide in its initial week, encompassing $214.9 million domestically and $425.3 million at the international box office.

In addition, the success of the movie has propelled Warner Bros. Pictures’ combined 2011 domestic box office past $1 billion for an eleventh consecutive year, which is an industry record.

Robinov stated, “It is an extraordinary privilege for everyone at Warner Bros. to share in this piece of cinema history. We are extremely grateful to the Harry Potter fans, who have remained loyal to the movies for more than a decade. We also want to congratulate the amazing roster of actors and filmmakers, whose artistry and talent is evident in every frame of every film. But special thanks must go to the woman whose incomparable imagination literally changed the world, Jo Rowling.”

Sue Kroll, Warner Bros. Pictures President of Worldwide Marketing, noted, “Each film has inspired us creatively and it has been exciting to watch the evolution through eight remarkable movies. It has truly been the movie event of a generation, as Harry Potter fans who were there from the beginning have been joined by new fans over the years, and their enthusiasm—as well as our own—has never waned.”

Dan Fellman, Warner Bros. Pictures President of Domestic Distribution, said, “Becoming a $7 billion-plus franchise is a stunning achievement, which is shared by everybody involved in any or all of the Harry Potter films. On the domestic side, the studio is also thrilled to have reached the billion-dollar benchmark for an unprecedented eleventh year in a row. We thank everyone at Warner Bros. whose hard work and dedication have contributed so much to our success.”

Veronika Kwan-Rubinek, Warner Bros. Pictures President of International Distribution, added, “It is a rare pleasure to have an opportunity to be a part of a global event of this magnitude. For ten years, the Harry Potter films have delighted audiences, bridging across countries and continents. We applaud all the actors and filmmakers who have given us the true definition of movie magic.”

The collective Harry Potter films are the highest-grossing franchise of all time, a global record it has held since the success of the sixth film, 2009’s “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.” Individually, the worldwide grosses for the previous films stand as: “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” at $974,755,371; “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” at $878,979,634; “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban” at $796,688,549; “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire” at $896,911,078; “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix” at $939,885,929; “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” at $934,416,487; and “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1” at $955,417,476.

“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2” is the final adventure in the Harry Potter film series. In the epic finale, the battle between the good and evil forces of the wizarding world escalates into an all-out war. The stakes have never been higher and no one is safe. But it is Harry Potter who may be called upon to make the ultimate sacrifice as he draws closer to the climactic showdown with Lord Voldemort. It all ends here.

Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson reprise their roles as Harry Potter, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger. The film’s ensemble cast also includes Helena Bonham Carter, Robbie Coltrane, Warwick Davis, Tom Felton, Ralph Fiennes, Michael Gambon, Ciarán Hinds, John Hurt, Jason Isaacs, Matthew Lewis, Gary Oldman, Alan Rickman, Maggie Smith, David Thewlis, Julie Walters and Bonnie Wright.

The film was directed by David Yates, and produced by David Heyman, David Barron and J.K. Rowling. Steve Kloves adapted the screenplay, based on the novel by J.K. Rowling. Lionel Wigram is the executive producer.

“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2” is the first Harry Potter film to be released in both 3D and 2D. Concurrently with its nationwide theatrical distribution, the film is being released in select IMAX® theatres. The film has been digitally re-mastered into the unparalleled image and sound quality of The IMAX Experience® through proprietary IMAX DMR® technology.

Opened nationwide on July 15, the film is being distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company. It has been rated PG-13 for some sequences of intense action violence and frightening images.

http://www.harrypotter.com/


Thursday, July 21, 2011

"Deathly Hallows - Part 2" a Dark, Epic Harry Potter Finale

TRASH IN MY EYE No. 61 (of 2011) by Leroy Douresseaux


Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 (2011)
Running time: 130 minutes (2 hours, 10 minutes)
MPAA – PG-13 for some sequences of intense action violence and frightening images
DIRECTOR: David Yates
WRITER: Steve Kloves (based upon the novel by J.K. Rowling)
PRODUCERS: David Barron and David Heyman and J.K. Rowling
CINEMATOGRAPHER: Eduardo Serra
EDITOR: Mark Day
COMPOSER: Alexandre Desplat

FANTASY/DRAMA/ACTION

Starring: Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, Helena Bonham Carter, Robbie Coltrane, Warwick Davis, Tom Felton, Ralph Fiennes, Michael Gambon, Ciarán Hinds, John Hurt, Jason Isaacs, Matthew Lewis, Gary Oldman, Alan Rickman, Maggie Smith, David Thewlis, Julie Walters, George Harris, and Bonnie Wright

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows was the seventh (and final) novel in the Harry Potter book series. Warner Bros. Pictures is releasing the film adaptation of the book as two films. The first film, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1, arrived in theatres in November 2010. Now, the final film, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2, has hit theatres with a bang. It’s an excellent film, fun as usual, but sad because this is an ending.

Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe) and his closest friends, Ron Weasley (Rupert Grint) and Hermione Granger (Emma Watson), embarked on a quest to find and destroy the Horcruxes, which hold the secret of the immortality of Lord Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes). They’re down to the last few Horcruxes, and one of them is hidden at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

The trio must return to Hogwarts, where they are no longer welcomed and will need the help of friends to enter. Meanwhile, Voldemort and his army of followers march on the school, and a pitched battle between the defenders of the school and Voldemort’s forces ensues. Now, the Dark Lord and boy wizard prepare for their final showdown.

By turning Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows the novel into two movies, Warner Bros. Pictures is able to make a more faithful adaptation of the book or, at least, an adaptation that has more of the book in it. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 and Part 2 can be viewed as one larger movie, but with each movie having its own distinctive tone and style. Deathly Hallows: Part 1 is contemplative, tense, and suspenseful like an espionage or psychological thriller. Deathly Hallows: Part 2 is darker in tone, but has the look and scope of a grand epic.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 is an action movie, one filled with gritty conflict, soaring flights, hair-raising missions, and desperate bids for escape. Occasionally, the film does stumble; the pace becomes awkward, it’s rhythm out of step. At those times, Deathly Hallows: Part 2 seems more about tying up loose ends than about being the grand finale it should be, but those moments don’t dominate the film.

Deathly Hallows: Part 2 is as thrilling and as visually dazzling as the previous films, but this one has a dragon flight that, for me at least, surpasses any other scene of magically-powered flight in this film franchise. This scene looks natural, more plausible, seeming to capture how a dragon, if such a thing existed, would move. It’s a sequence that should earn Deathly Hallows: Part 2 a best visual effects Oscar nomination, at least.

The final Harry Potter film may also surpass the others in the actors’ performances because Deathly Hallows: Part 2 is powerfully acted. As the series went along, the characters’ became more complex, moving from familiar archetypes to complicated people with shifting motivations and personalities and also becoming darker. In Deathly Hallows: Part 2, the characters, from Harry and Voldemort on down, are either made vulnerable or become more vulnerable than they ever were. Ralph Fiennes’s turn as Voldemort is layered and textured; suddenly, the Dark Lord is made tragic… even sympathetic. Fiennes will make you love as well as love-to-hate this great villain.

In the end, Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, and Emma Watson, our beloved star trio, don’t disappoint. Their ability to perform together and their screen chemistry affirm that this story was never just about Harry Potter alone. I don’t need to spend too many more words on Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2. That last scene of Harry, Ron, and Hermione together embodies the magic that this series offered and why we are sad that the story is ending, for now…

8 of 10
A

Thursday, July 21, 2011