Hit Animated Film, ParaNorman, Returns for Halloween with a New Animated Short

LAIKA’S ParaNorman Returns to the Big Screen in Remastered RealD 3D for Exclusive Halloween Run Featuring a Brand-New CG Short Film Starring Anna Kendrick and Finn Wolfhard

Limited engagement includes the world premiere of ParaNorman: The Thrifting

Following the record-breaking 2024 re-release of Coraline, LAIKA once again partners with Fathom Entertainment and Trafalgar Releasing to bring this Halloween event to the global moviegoing audience original LAIKA to Re-Release ParaNorman.

LAIKA to Re-Release ParaNorman.

A Blu-ray collection of Laika's biggest films can be found at Amazon.

ANNECY, France & HILLSBORO, Ore. & DENVER & LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--LAIKA’s award-winning stop-motion animated film ParaNorman returns this Halloween for a one-week theatrical engagement.

As with the record-breaking 15th Anniversary 2024 re-release of Coraline in 2D and RealD 3D, LAIKA will bring the gloriously remastered ParaNorman (originally released in 2012) to global audiences in partnership with Trafalgar Releasing in international markets premiering Thursday, October 23, 2025 and Fathom Entertainment in the US premiering Saturday, October 25, 2025.

LAIKA’s delightful second film, which garnered multiple awards including Oscar®, BAFTA® and Golden Globe nominations, as well as multiple ANNIE Awards®, was written by Chris Butler (Missing Link, ParaNorman) and directed by Butler and Sam Fell (Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget). Offered in stunning, newly remastered RealD 3D and 2D formats, ParaNorman’s return launches a year-long 20th Anniversary celebration of LAIKA, it was announced today at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival.

The studio’s new, CG animated short film, ParaNorman: The Thrifting is directed by LAIKA’s lead character designer Thibault LeClercq and written by Chris Butler. The short features the voice work of "Stranger Things" star Finn Wolfhard and Anna Kendrick reprising her role of Norman’s older sister, Courtney Babcock. Produced in association with Passion Pictures, ParaNorman: The Thrifting will be attached to the re-release screenings.

Coraline’s re-release success last year signaled an audience desire for repertory cinema as moviegoers re-discover older films, especially accessible horror titles that families can enjoy together. Coraline’s return scored $56M in worldwide box office, making it one of the biggest global film re-releases of the past decade and the highest grossing stop-motion movie of all time.

“ParaNorman was a breakthrough film for LAIKA -- emotionally rich, visually daring, and proudly weird in all the right ways,” said LAIKA’s Chief Marketing & Operations Officer David Burke. “Bringing it back to theaters in stunning remastered 3D, paired with a brand-new short film, is an invitation for audiences to rediscover the heart and humor of Norman’s world -- or experience it for the first time. Today, horror has become a shared family ritual, and ParaNorman sits right at the intersection of spooky and meaningful. It’s the perfect ‘starter horror’ -- a gateway into genre storytelling that’s as thoughtful as it is thrilling.”

”Fathom is very pleased to extend our distribution partnership with LAIKA and bring the critically acclaimed ParaNorman back to US audiences this Halloween in both 2D and RealD 3D and with the exclusive consumer added value feature, ParaNorman: The Thrifting,” said Ray Nutt, Fathom Entertainment’s Chief Executive Officer. “Coraline consumers voted with their wallets last year, resulting in approximately 70% of the record-breaking $34M+ U.S. theatrical box office coming in 3D. ParaNorman is the ideal, spooky follow-up for audiences to enjoy on the big screen later this year.”

“Following the incredible global response to Coraline's theatrical re-release, which surpassed its original box office run in some international markets, we’re thrilled to partner with LAIKA once again to bring ParaNorman back to the big screen this Fall,” said Kymberli Frueh, SVP of Programming and Content Acquisitions at Trafalgar Releasing. “ParaNorman is a visually stunning, emotionally resonant film that deserves to be experienced in theaters -- both in 2D and in vividly remastered RealD 3D. We can’t wait for audiences around the world to rediscover this groundbreaking stop-motion classic.”

About LAIKA:

LAIKA was founded in 2005 in Oregon by President & CEO Travis Knight. The studio’s five films: Missing Link (2019), Kubo and the Two Strings (2016), The Boxtrolls (2014), ParaNorman (2012) and Coraline (2009) have all been nominated for the Academy Award® for Outstanding Animated Feature. Kubo and the Two Strings won the BAFTA® Award for Best Animated Film and received an additional Oscar® nomination for Visual Effects. Missing Link was awarded the Golden Globe® for Best Animated Film. LAIKA was awarded a Scientific and Technology Oscar® in 2016 for its innovation in 3D printing. LAIKA is currently in production on its next animated film Wildwood. The studio is developing the animated feature films The Night Gardener, from an original idea by Bill Dubuque, creator of the hit series Ozark, and Piranesi, based on the NYT bestselling novel by Susanna Clarke with a screenplay to be written by Dave Kajganich.

LAIKA’s Live Action subsidiary has a range of projects in development including feature films based on the action thriller novel Seventeen by screenwriter John Brownlow; an original script Crumble, written and directed by Brian Duffield (Spontaneous) with Phil Lord and Chris Miller (Spider-verse films) producing, and an original project from Oscar®-nominated screenwriter Jon Spaihts (Dune). Captain Marvel filmmakers Anna Boden & Ryan Fleck will write and direct LAIKA’s live action adaptation of New York Times bestselling author Taylor Jenkins Reid’s new novel Atmosphere. www.laika.com

About Fathom Entertainment:

Fathom Entertainment is the leading global specialty distributor of live and pre-recorded content to theatres. For more than 20 years, Fathom has pioneered theatrical distribution of events and special engagements, including performing arts, movies, episodic content, and other special event programming across various genres and formats. Fathom offers content creators a worldwide cinema distribution network by operating in 45 countries and boasts a live digital broadcast network of more than 1,100 locations. Fathom is owned by AMC Entertainment Inc. (NYSE: AMC), Cinemark Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CNK), and Regal Cineworld Group (LSE: CINE.L). For more information, visit FathomEntertainment.com.

About Trafalgar Releasing:

Trafalgar Releasing is the global leader in event cinema distribution, connecting fans through unforgettable cinematic experiences in over 15,000 theatres across 132 countries. A subsidiary of Trafalgar Entertainment, the company specializes in the production, acquisition, marketing, and worldwide distribution of live and pre-recorded content, led by a global team in the UK, US, and Germany. Trafalgar Releasing’s diverse slate spans chart-topping concert films and live concert broadcasts, award-winning theatre, acclaimed opera, dance, television, podcasts, and music documentaries – featuring some of the biggest names in entertainment including Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, BTS, Metallica, Pink Floyd, Coldplay, Billie Eilish, The Chosen and the Royal Ballet and Opera. For more information, visit Trafalgar-releasing.com. 

----------------------------

Amazon wants me to inform/remind you that any affiliate links found on this page are PAID ADS, but I technically only get paid (eventually) if you click on affiliate links like these, BOOKS PAGE, GRAPHIC NOVELS, or MANGA PAGE and BUY something(s).

Capcom Sets "Resident Evil Requiem" for February 2026 Release

Capcom’s Resident Evil Requiem, the Latest Title in the Series, Set to Release on February 27, 2026

The highly anticipated new installment to launch during the series' 30th anniversary

OSAKA, Japan--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Capcom Co., Ltd. (TOKYO:9697) today announced that Resident Evil Requiem, the latest title in the Resident Evil series, is scheduled for release on February 27, 2026.

Resident Evil Requiem is a survival horror game that serves as the ninth main installment in the series. The title is being developed using RE ENGINE, Capcom’s proprietary game engine, and leverages Capcom’s extensive development expertise cultivated through numerous hit titles. The graphical fidelity has undergone a significant evolution in particular, delivering visuals with cinematic realism that vividly convey characters’ emotions and offer an unprecedented level of immersion. The company is developing the title steadily to meet the high expectations of both long-time series’ fans and the global gaming audience. Further details regarding the title will be announced in the future.

Capcom remains firmly committed to satisfying the expectations of all users by leveraging its industry leading game development capabilities in order to create highly entertaining gameplay experiences.

About the Resident Evil series:

The Resident Evil franchise features survival horror games in which players utilize a variety of weapons and other items to survive terrifying situations. Supported by a passionate global fanbase, cumulative game sales since the first title in this flagship series debuted in 1996 exceed 170 million* units.

*As of March 31, 2025

ABOUT CAPCOM:

Capcom is a leading worldwide developer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment for game consoles, PCs, handheld and wireless devices. Founded in 1983, the company has created hundreds of games, including groundbreaking franchises Resident Evil™, Monster Hunter™, Street Fighter™, Mega Man™, Devil May Cry™ and Ace Attorney™. Capcom maintains operations in the U.S., U.K., Germany, France, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore and Tokyo, with corporate headquarters located in Osaka, Japan. More information about Capcom can be found at https://www.capcom.co.jp/ir/english/.

-----------------------------------

Harry, Hermoine and Ron Have Boarded the Hogwarts Express to HBO

HBO Original HARRY POTTER Television Series Sets Cast For Roles Of Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, And Ron Weasley

The HBO Original HARRY POTTER television series has cast screen newcomers Dominic McLaughlin in the role of "Harry Potter," Arabella Stanton as "Hermione Granger," and Alastair Stout as "Ron Weasley." 

Francesca Gardiner (showrunner, executive producer) and Mark Mylod (director of multiple episodes, executive producer) quote: “After an extraordinary search led by casting directors Lucy Bevan and Emily Brockmann, we are delighted to announce we have found our Harry, Hermione, and Ron. The talent of these three unique actors is wonderful to behold, and we cannot wait for the world to witness their magic together onscreen. We would like to thank all the tens of thousands of children who auditioned. It's been a real pleasure to discover the plethora of young talent out there.”

About the series: The series will be a faithful adaptation of the beloved Harry Potter books by author and executive producer J.K. Rowling. Each season will bring Harry Potter to new and existing audiences, streaming exclusively on HBO Max where it’s available, including in upcoming launch markets Germany, Italy and the UK.  The original classic films will remain available to watch around the world. 

Credits: The series is written and executive produced by Francesca Gardiner. Mark Mylod will executive produce and direct multiple episodes of the series for HBO in association with Brontë Film and TV and Warner Bros. Television. The series is executive produced by J.K. Rowling, Neil Blair, and Ruth Kenley-Letts of Brontë Film and TV, and David Heyman of Heyday Films.

----------------------

There is plenty of HARRY POTTER merchandise at Amazon.  And HARRY POTTER books are always available here.

Amazon wants me to inform/remind you that any affiliate links found on this page are PAID ADS, but I technically only get paid (eventually) if you click on affiliate links like these, BOOKS PAGE, GRAPHIC NOVELS, or MANGA PAGE and BUY something(s).

Marvel Studios Debuts "THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS" Official Trailer

From Marvel.com:

Welcome to the family.

Marvel Studios has shared a new trailer for The Fantastic Four: First Steps, showcasing a new look at Marvel’s First Family.

Opening in theaters July 25, 2025, "The Fantastic Four: First Steps" introduces Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic (Pedro Pascal), Sue Storm/Invisible Woman (Vanessa Kirby), Johnny Storm/Human Torch (Joseph Quinn), and Ben Grimm/The Thing (Ebon Moss-Bachrach). They are facing their most daunting challenge yet.

.

Forced to balance their roles as heroes with the strength of their family bond, they must defend Earth from a ravenous space god called Galactus (Ralph Ineson) and his enigmatic Herald, Silver Surfer (Julia Garner). And if Galactus’ plan to devour the entire planet and everyone on it weren’t bad enough, it suddenly gets very personal.

The action adventure also stars Paul Walter Hauser, John Malkovich, Natasha Lyonne, and Sarah Niles. The Fantastic Four: First Steps is directed by Matt Shakman, produced by Kevin Feige, and executive produced by Louis D’Esposito, Grant Curtis, and Tim Lewis.

Marvel also debuted a new poster for the film, showing off the Fantastic Four, H.E.R.B.I.E., and the film’s retro-futuristic, 1960s vibe.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps hits theaters July 25, 2025.

----------------------------

----------------------------

If you want to read about the Fantastic Four's early comic book adventures, you can do so in the paperback graphic novel collection, FANTASTIC FOUR EPIC COLLECTION: WORLD'S GREATEST COMIC MAGAZINE, which you can get at Amazon.

Amazon wants me to inform/remind you that any affiliate links found on this page are PAID ADS, but I technically only get paid (eventually) if you click on affiliate links like these, BOOKS PAGE, GRAPHIC NOVELS, or MANGA PAGE and BUY something(s).

------------------

"The Alto Knights" Soundtrack Now Available

The Alto Knights (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) Available Now

THE ALTO KNIGHTS Original Motion Picture Soundtrack - Music by David Fleming

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--WaterTower Music is excited to announce the release of "The Alto Knights (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)" with music by award-winning composer David Fleming (“The Last of Us Season 1,” “Mr & Mrs. Smith”). The Soundtrack is available now on all platforms.

David Fleming notes, “Barry Levinson's The Alto Knights is a true story of the end of a brotherhood and the fall of the American mafia. When Barry and I first spoke about the music, we knew it needed to have a simmering, kinetic energy to mirror the undercurrent of quiet machinations that push Frank and Vito toward sabotage and betrayal. The score uses pulsing saxophones and synthesizers juxtaposed over classic sounds of a bygone era to underpin this tectonic shift in the history of organized crime.”

The Alto Knights (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) Tracklisting -

1. Vito

2. Apple Picking

3. American Made

4. Heat

5. Shards

6. Circus

7. Closed Casket

8. Central Park

9. Roses

10. Straight Razor

11. Cuba

12. Plead The Fifth

13. Corners

14. Party Crashers

15. Dominoes

16. The Alto Knights

ABOUT THE ALTO KNIGHTS:

From Warner Bros. Pictures, The Alto Knights stars Academy Award winner Robert De Niro in a dual role, directed by Academy Award-winning filmmaker Barry Levinson.

The film follows two of New York’s most notorious organized crime bosses, Frank Costello (De Niro) and Vito Genovese (De Niro), as they vie for control of the city’s streets. Once the best of friends, petty jealousies and a series of betrayals place them on a deadly collision course that will reshape the Mafia (and America) forever.

“The Alto Knights” was written by Oscar nominee Nicholas Pileggi (“Goodfellas”) and produced by Oscar winner Irwin Winkler (“Rocky,” “Goodfellas”), Levinson, Jason Sosnoff, Charles Winkler and David Winkler, with Mike Drake executive producing.

De Niro stars alongside Debra Messing (“Will & Grace”), Cosmo Jarvis (“Shōgun”), Kathrine Narducci (“The Irishman”), Michael Rispoli (“Billions”), Michael Adler (“Peppermint”), Ed Amatrudo (“Till,” “Nashville”), Joe Bacino (“Kick-Ass”), Anthony J. Gallo (“The Irishman”), Wallace Langham (“Ford v Ferrari”), Louis Mustillo (“Cooper’s Bar,” “Mike & Molly”), Frank Piccirillo, Matt Servitto (“Billions”) and Robert Uricola (Raging Bull).

Joining Levinson (“Rainman,” “The Natural,” “Wag the Dog,” “Good Morning Vietnam”) behind the camera are Oscar-nominated director of photography Dante Spinotti (“The Insider,” “L.A. Confidential”), production designer Neil Spisak (the “Spider-Man” films, “Dopesick”), Oscar-nominated editor Douglas Crise (“Babel,” “Dopesick”), Oscar-nominated costume designer Jeffrey Kurland (“Bullets Over Broadway,” “Tenet”), award-winning casting director Ellen Chenoweth (“Past Lives”) and composer David Fleming (“Hillbilly Elegy,” “Mr. & Mrs. Smith”).

Warner Bros. Pictures Presents an Irwin Winkler Production, a Barry Levinson Film, “The Alto Knights.” The film will be distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures worldwide and released in theaters nationwide on March 21, 2025, and internationally beginning 19 March 2025.

ABOUT DAVID FLEMING:

David Fleming is an American composer who has written music for film and television including most recently, Amazon's “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” and Ron Howard's “Jim Henson: Idea Man,” both of which resulted in Primetime Emmy nominations for David, and a win for his Jim Henson score. Starting his career moonlighting in New York ad houses, David relocated to Los Angeles after winning BMI's Pete Carpenter Fellowship and soon began contributing music to major films. David composed the score for the BBC's acclaimed “Blue Planet II” alongside Hans Zimmer, which marked the start of a collaborative relationship with the Academy Award-winning composer, encompassing scores for both “Dune” films and “Top Gun: Maverick.” David's sweeping orchestral fantasy score for Netflix's “Damsel” marked his first solo feature, while his dark electronic work alongside Gustavo Santaolla on HBO's “The Last of Us” won ASCAP's Composer's Choice Award for Television Score of the Year. Through his soundtrack work, David has also collaborated with popular recording artists such as Elton John, Lady Gaga, Pharrell Williams and Beyoncé, with whom he worked on the Grammy-nominated song “Spirit,” for her album “The Lion King: The Gift.” In addition to his work on the forthcoming season of “The Last of Us,” David recently composed the score for A24's “Eternity” and the neo-western “Americana,” both of which are slated for 2025 releases.

ABOUT WATERTOWER MUSIC:

WaterTower Music, the in-house label for the Warner Bros Discovery companies, releases recorded music as rich and diverse as the companies themselves. It has been the soundtrack home to many of the world’s most iconic films, television shows and games since 2001. 

----------------------

Winners and Nominees at the 2025 / 97th Academy Awards (March 2nd, 2025)

The 97th Academy Awards | 2025

Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood – Sunday, March 2, 2025

Honoring movies released in 2024

The 97th Academy Awards will air live Sunday, March 2, 2025 at 7 p.m. ET/4 PT, on ABC. Viewers can also stream the awards ceremony live on ABC.com, the ABC app, Hulu, YouTubeTV, AT&T TV and FuboTV.

Best Picture

Nominees

Anora-WINNER

Alex Coco, Samantha Quan and Sean Baker, Producers

The Brutalist

Nick Gordon, Brian Young, Andrew Morrison, D.J. Gugenheim and Brady Corbet, Producers

A Complete Unknown

Fred Berger, James Mangold and Alex Heineman, Producers

Conclave

Tessa Ross, Juliette Howell and Michael A. Jackman, Producers

Dune: Part Two

Mary Parent, Cale Boyter, Tanya Lapointe and Denis Villeneuve, Producers

Emilia Pérez

Pascal Caucheteux and Jacques Audiard, Producers

I'm Still Here

Maria Carlota Bruno and Rodrigo Teixeira, Producers

Nickel Boys

Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner and Joslyn Barnes, Producers

The Substance

Coralie Fargeat and Tim Bevan & Eric Fellner, Producers

Wicked

Marc Platt, Producer

Directing

Nominees

Anora-WINNER

Sean Baker

The Brutalist

Brady Corbet

A Complete Unknown

James Mangold

Emilia Pérez

Jacques Audiard

The Substance

Coralie Fargeat

Actor in a Leading Role

Nominees

Adrien Brody-WINNER

The Brutalist

Timothée Chalamet

A Complete Unknown

Colman Domingo

Sing Sing

Ralph Fiennes

Conclave

Sebastian Stan

The Apprentice

Actor in a Supporting Role

Nominees

Yura Borisov

Anora

Kieran Culkin - WINNER

A Real Pain

Edward Norton

A Complete Unknown

Guy Pearce

The Brutalist

Jeremy Strong

The Apprentice

Actress in a Leading Role

Nominees

Cynthia Erivo

Wicked

Karla Sofía Gascón

Emilia Pérez

Mikey Madison-WINNER

Anora

Demi Moore

The Substance

Fernanda Torres

I'm Still Here

Actress in a Supporting Role

Nominees

Monica Barbaro

A Complete Unknown

Ariana Grande

Wicked

Felicity Jones

The Brutalist

Isabella Rossellini

Conclave

Zoe Saldaña-WINNER

Emilia Pérez

Writing (Adapted Screenplay)

Nominees

A Complete Unknown

Screenplay by James Mangold and Jay Cocks

Conclave-WINNER

Screenplay by Peter Straughan

Emilia Pérez

Screenplay by Jacques Audiard; In collaboration with Thomas Bidegain, Léa Mysius and Nicolas Livecchi

Nickel Boys

Screenplay by RaMell Ross & Joslyn Barnes

Sing Sing

Screenplay by Clint Bentley, Greg Kwedar; Story by Clint Bentley, Greg Kwedar, Clarence Maclin, John "Divine G" Whitfield

Writing (Original Screenplay)

Nominees

Anora-WINNER

Written by Sean Baker

The Brutalist

Written by Brady Corbet, Mona Fastvold

A Real Pain

Written by Jesse Eisenberg

September 5

Written by Moritz Binder, Tim Fehlbaum; Co-Written by Alex David

The Substance

Written by Coralie Fargeat

Animated Feature Film

Nominees

Flow - WINNER

Gints Zilbalodis, Matīss Kaža, Ron Dyens and Gregory Zalcman

Inside Out 2

Kelsey Mann and Mark Nielsen

Memoir of a Snail

Adam Elliot and Liz Kearney

Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl

Nick Park, Merlin Crossingham and Richard Beek

The Wild Robot

Chris Sanders and Jeff Hermann

Animated Short Film

Nominees

Beautiful Men

Nicolas Keppens and Brecht Van Elslande

In the Shadow of the Cypress-WINNER

Shirin Sohani and Hossein Molayemi

Magic Candies

Daisuke Nishio and Takashi Washio

Wander to Wonder

Nina Gantz and Stienette Bosklopper

Yuck!

Loïc Espuche and Juliette Marquet

Cinematography

Nominees

The Brutalist-WINNER

Lol Crawley

Dune: Part Two

Greig Fraser

Emilia Pérez

Paul Guilhaume

Maria

Ed Lachman

Nosferatu

Jarin Blaschke

Costume Design

Nominees

A Complete Unknown

Arianne Phillips

Conclave

Lisy Christl

Gladiator II

Janty Yates and Dave Crossman

Nosferatu

Linda Muir

Wicked-WINNER

Paul Tazewell

Documentary Feature Film

Nominees

Black Box Diaries

Shiori Ito, Eric Nyari and Hanna Aqvilin

No Other Land-WINNER

Basel Adra, Rachel Szor, Hamdan Ballal and Yuval Abraham

Porcelain War

Brendan Bellomo, Slava Leontyev, Aniela Sidorska and Paula DuPre' Pesmen

Soundtrack to a Coup d'Etat

Johan Grimonprez, Daan Milius and Rémi Grellety

Sugarcane

Julian Brave NoiseCat, Emily Kassie and Kellen Quinn

Documentary Short Film

Nominees

Death by Numbers

Kim A. Snyder and Janique L. Robillard

I Am Ready, Warden

Smriti Mundhra and Maya Gnyp

Incident

Bill Morrison and Jamie Kalven

Instruments of a Beating Heart

Ema Ryan Yamazaki and Eric Nyari

The Only Girl in the Orchestra-WINNER

Molly O’Brien and Lisa Remington

Film Editing

Nominees

Anora-WINNER

Sean Baker

The Brutalist

David Jancso

Conclave

Nick Emerson

Emilia Pérez

Juliette Welfling

Wicked

Myron Kerstein

International Feature Film

Nominees

Brazil

I'm Still Here-WINNER

Denmark

The Girl with the Needle

France

Emilia Pérez

Germany

The Seed of the Sacred Fig

Latvia

Flow

Makeup and Hairstyling

Nominees

A Different Man

Mike Marino, David Presto and Crystal Jurado

Emilia Pérez

Julia Floch Carbonel, Emmanuel Janvier and Jean-Christophe Spadaccini

Nosferatu

David White, Traci Loader and Suzanne Stokes-Munton

The Substance-WINNER

Pierre-Olivier Persin, Stéphanie Guillon and Marilyne Scarselli

Wicked

Frances Hannon, Laura Blount and Sarah Nuth

Music (Original Score)

Nominees

The Brutalist-WINNER

Daniel Blumberg

Conclave

Volker Bertelmann

Emilia Pérez

Clément Ducol and Camille

Wicked

John Powell and Stephen Schwartz

The Wild Robot

Kris Bowers

Music (Original Song)

Nominees

“El Mal”-WINNER

from Emilia Pérez; Music by Clément Ducol and Camille; Lyric by Clément Ducol, Camille and Jacques Audiard

“The Journey”

from The Six Triple Eight; Music and Lyric by Diane Warren

“Like A Bird”

from Sing Sing; Music and Lyric by Abraham Alexander and Adrian Quesada

“Mi Camino”

from Emilia Pérez; Music and Lyric by Camille and Clément Ducol

“Never Too Late”

from Elton John: Never Too Late; Music and Lyric by Elton John, Brandi Carlile, Andrew Watt and Bernie Taupin

Production Design

Nominees

The Brutalist

Production Design: Judy Becker; Set Decoration: Patricia Cuccia

Conclave

Production Design: Suzie Davies; Set Decoration: Cynthia Sleiter

Dune: Part Two

Production Design: Patrice Vermette; Set Decoration: Shane Vieau

Nosferatu

Production Design: Craig Lathrop; Set Decoration: Beatrice Brentnerová

Wicked-WINNER

Production Design: Nathan Crowley; Set Decoration: Lee Sandales

Live Action Short Film

Nominees

A Lien

Sam Cutler-Kreutz and David Cutler-Kreutz

Anuja

Adam J. Graves and Suchitra Mattai

I'm Not a Robot-WINNER

Victoria Warmerdam and Trent

The Last Ranger

Cindy Lee and Darwin Shaw

The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent

Nebojša Slijepčević and Danijel Pek

Sound

Nominees

A Complete Unknown

Tod A. Maitland, Donald Sylvester, Ted Caplan, Paul Massey and David Giammarco

Dune: Part Two-WINNER

Gareth John, Richard King, Ron Bartlett and Doug Hemphill

Emilia Pérez

Erwan Kerzanet, Aymeric Devoldère, Maxence Dussère, Cyril Holtz and Niels Barletta

Wicked

Simon Hayes, Nancy Nugent Title, Jack Dolman, Andy Nelson and John Marquis

The Wild Robot

Randy Thom, Brian Chumney, Gary A. Rizzo and Leff Lefferts

Visual Effects

Nominees

Alien: Romulus

Eric Barba, Nelson Sepulveda-Fauser, Daniel Macarin and Shane Mahan

Better Man

Luke Millar, David Clayton, Keith Herft and Peter Stubbs

Dune: Part Two-WINNER

Paul Lambert, Stephen James, Rhys Salcombe and Gerd Nefzer

Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes

Erik Winquist, Stephen Unterfranz, Paul Story and Rodney Burke

Wicked

Pablo Helman, Jonathan Fawkner, David Shirk and Paul Corbould

----------------------

"Conclave" and "Say Nothing" Top 2025 Scripter Awards

Writers of “Conclave,” “Say Nothing” Win 37th-annual USC Libraries Scripter Awards

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The authors and screenwriters behind the film “Conclave” and the series “Say Nothing” won the 37th-annual USC Libraries Scripter Awards on the evening of Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025. Selection committee chair Howard Rodman announced the winners at a black-tie ceremony at USC’s Town and Gown ballroom.

“You start off with a book that you love, you read it again and again, and then you end up throwing it over your shoulder”

The Scripter Awards recognize the year’s most accomplished adaptations of the written word for the screen, including both feature-length films and episodic series.

Novelist Robert Harris and screenwriter Peter Straughan took home the award for “Conclave.”

In accepting the award, Straughan said “Adaptation is a really strange process, you’re very much the servant of two masters. In a way it’s an act of betrayal of one master for the other.” He joked that “You start off with a book that you love, you read it again and again, and then you end up throwing it over your shoulder,” crediting author Robert Harris for being “so kind, so generous, so open throughout.”

In the episodic series category, Joshua Zetumer and Patrick Radden Keefe won for the episode “The People in the Dirt” from the limited series “Say Nothing,” which Zetumer adapted from Keefe’s nonfiction book about the Troubles in Ireland.

Zetumer referenced this year’s extraordinary group of Scripter finalists, saying “Projects like these reminded me of why I wanted to become a writer when I was sitting in USC’s Leavey Library dreaming of becoming a screenwriter. If you fell in love with movies, or fell in love with TV, chances are you fell in love with something dangerous.”

Special guest for the evening, actress and producer Jennifer Beals, shared her thoughts on the impact of libraries. “If ever you are at a loss wondering if there is good in the world,” she said, “you have only to go to a library. There you will find shelf upon shelf of books where authors have poured their knowledge, their stories, their creativity on page after page...if a library is not the very best of what society has to offer, I don't know what is.”

Earlier in the evening, Howard Rodman accepted the Ex Libris Award, which honors exceptional commitment to the USC Libraries. Rodman has been the chair of the Scripter Selection Committee for the past twelve years. Presenting him with the award was celebrated novelist Walter Mosley who credited Rodman for being an influence on thousands of writers, producers, editors, directors, and “a gardener of revelation for those of us who didn’t know where we were going or even when we had arrived.”

------------------

Universal Releases First "Jurassic World Rebirth" Official Trailer

Universal Pictures has released the first trailer for its 2025 film, "Jurassic World Rebirth."  The film is due in theaters July 2, 2025.

Press Release:

A new era is born. This summer, three years after the Jurassic World trilogy concluded with each film surpassing $1 billion at the global box office, the enduring Jurassic series evolves in an ingenious new direction with Jurassic World Rebirth. 

Anchored by iconic action superstar Scarlett Johansson, Emmy and SAG nominee Jonathan Bailey, and two-time Oscar® winner Mahershala Ali, this action-packed new chapter sees an extraction team race to the most dangerous place on Earth, an island research facility for the original Jurassic Park, inhabited by the worst of the worst that were left behind. 

Also starring acclaimed international stars, Rupert Friend and Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, the film is directed by dynamic visualist Gareth Edwards (Rogue One: A Star Wars Story) from a script by original Jurassic Park screenwriter, David Koepp. 

Five years after the events of Jurassic World Dominion, the planet’s ecology has proven largely inhospitable to dinosaurs. Those remaining exist in isolated equatorial environments with climates resembling the one in which they once thrived. The three most colossal creatures across land, sea and air within that tropical biosphere hold, in their DNA, the key to a drug that will bring miraculous life-saving benefits to humankind.

Academy Award® nominee Johansson plays skilled covert operations expert Zora Bennett, contracted to lead a skilled team on a top-secret mission to secure the genetic material. When Zora’s operation intersects with a civilian family whose boating expedition was capsized by marauding aquatic dinos, they all find themselves stranded on a forbidden island that had once housed an undisclosed research facility for Jurassic Park. There, in a terrain populated by dinosaurs of vastly different species, they come face-to-face with a sinister, shocking discovery that has been hidden from the world for decades. 

Ali is Duncan Kincaid, Zora’s most trusted team member; Critics Choice and Olivier Award winner Jonathan Bailey (Wicked, "Bridgerton") plays paleontologist Dr. Henry Loomis; Emmy nominee Rupert Friend ("Homeland," "Obi-Wan Kenobi") appears as Big Pharma representative Martin Krebs, and Manuel Garcia-Rulfo ("The Lincoln Lawyer," Murder on the Orient Express) plays Reuben Delgado, the father of the shipwrecked civilian family. 

The cast includes Luna Blaise (Manifest), David Iacono (The Summer I Turned Pretty) and Audrina Miranda ("Lopez vs. Lopez") as Reuben’s family. The film also features, as members of Zora and Krebs’ crews, Philippine Velge (Station Eleven), Bechir Sylvain (BMF) and Ed Skrein (Deadpool). 

 

Jurassic World Rebirth is directed by BAFTA winner Edwards from a script by Koepp (War of the Worlds), based on characters created by Michael Crichton. The film is produced by Oscar® nominee Frank Marshall and Patrick Crowley, both longtime Jurassic franchise producers and of last summer’s blockbuster, Twisters. The film is executive produced by Steven Spielberg, Denis L. Stewart and Jim Spencer.

-------------------------

-------------------------

Marvel Debuts "The Fantastic Four: First Steps" Teaser Trailer

Disney and Marvel Studios has released the first teaser trailer for its upcoming film, "The Fantastic Four: First Steps."  Based on the Marvel Comics title, the film stars Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn,, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of a 1960s-inspired, retro-futuristic world, Marvel Studios’ "The Fantastic Four: First Steps" introduces Marvel’s First Family — Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic (Pascal), Sue Storm/Invisible Woman (Kirby), Johnny Storm/Human Torch (Quinn), and Ben Grimm/The Thing (Moss-Bachrach) — as they face their most daunting challenge yet.  Forced to balance their roles as heroes with the strength of their family bond, they must defend Earth from a ravenous space god called Galactus (Ralph Ineson) and his enigmatic Herald, Silver Surfer (Julia Garner).  And if Galactus’ plan to devour the entire planet and everyone on it weren’t bad enough, it suddenly gets very personal.

The action adventure also stars Paul Walter Hauser, John Malkovich, Natasha Lyonne, and Sarah Niles.

Directed by Matt Shakman, produced by Kevin Feige, and executive produced by Louis D’Esposito, Grant Curtis, and Tim Lewis, "The Fantastic Four: First Steps" opens in theaters July 25, 2025.

I've embedded the teaser trailer below for your viewing enjoyment:

----------------------

----------------------

Cinemark Theaters to Screen Acclaimed Films During "Oscar Movie Week"

Hollywood’s Elite Films Shine at Cinemark’s Nationwide Oscar® Movie Week Festival

Exhibitor to offer fan-favorite all-inclusive festival passes alongside individual tickets for moviegoers to see Oscar® film nominees in the immersive, cinematic environment.

This year’s program is presented by Focus Features’ upcoming film “Black Bag,” a spy drama from acclaimed director Steven Soderbergh which hits theaters on March 14, 2025.

PLANO, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Cinemark Holdings, Inc., one of the largest and most influential theatrical exhibition companies in the world, is bringing the most prestigious Hollywood films of 2024 to big screens across the nation with the return of its annual Oscar® Movie Week festival.

In theaters from Monday, Feb. 24 through Sunday, March 2, 2025, Oscar® Movie Week offers movie buffs the chance to experience Best Picture as well as Live Action and Animated Short Film nominees in the incomparable immersive, cinematic environment only a movie theater can provide.

This year’s festival is presented by Focus Features’ upcoming film, "Black Bag," and will offer a convenient, all-inclusive festival pass that will include all participating nominees, as well as single showtime tickets for those interested in select titles. The festival is being held at more than 120 participating Cinemark theaters nationwide in advance of the 97th Oscars®, which airs March 2, 2025 on ABC and will be streamed live on Hulu. Festival passes are on sale now at Cinemark.com/movieweek with individual showtime tickets going on sale Jan. 29.

“The Oscars® are about celebrating the art of cinema, and there's no better way to experience the year’s most accoladed Hollywood content than alongside other fans in one of our auditoriums with sight and sound technology that cannot be replicated at home”

"The Oscars® are about celebrating the art of cinema, and there's no better way to experience the year’s most accoladed Hollywood content than alongside other fans in one of our auditoriums with sight and sound technology that cannot be replicated at home,” said Cinemark Chief Marketing and Content Officer Wanda Gierhart Fearing. “We’re thrilled to bring Oscar® Movie Week back to Cinemark with our highly sought after festival passes, offering moviegoers the chance to catch these prestigious films on the big screen before the must-see awards ceremony.”

In addition to the festival pass, which is on sale now, individual tickets will go on sale for each title beginning Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025. Tickets for the feature-length Best Picture nominees are available at standard pricing, with showtimes beginning on Monday, Feb. 24, 2025. All Live Action and Animated Short Film nominees are bundled into one $10 viewing, available Friday, February 28 through Sunday, March 2, 2025. Oscar® Movie Week attendees can get star-studded savings with 50 percent off any size popcorn at participating Cinemark theaters during the run of the program.

Those wanting to have a red carpet-worthy watch party at home for Hollywood’s biggest night, Cinemark’s nationwide delivery partnerships with DoorDash, Grubhub and Uber Eats will ensure you have the best in movie snacks to go alongside the best in entertainment. Visit https://www.cinemark.com/food-drink/delivery for more information on available options and participating locations.

For more details on Oscar® Movie Week, including participating theaters, showtimes and how to purchase tickets, visit Cinemark.com/movieweek.

About Black Bag:

From Director Steven Soderbergh, Black Bag is a gripping spy drama about legendary intelligence agents George Woodhouse and his beloved wife Kathryn. When she is suspected of betraying the nation, George faces the ultimate test – loyalty to his marriage or his country. The film stars Michael Fassbender, Cate Blanchett, Regé-Jean Page, Marisa Abela, Naomie Harris, Tom Burke, and Pierce Brosnan.

About Cinemark Holdings, Inc.:

Cinemark Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CNK) provides extraordinary out-of-home entertainment experiences as one of the largest and most influential theatrical exhibition companies in the world. Based in Plano, Texas, Cinemark makes every day cinematic for moviegoers across nearly 500 theaters and more than 5,500 screens, operating in 42 states in the U.S. (306 theaters; 4,282 screens) and 13 South and Central American countries (193 theaters; 1,398 screens). Cinemark offers guests superior sight and sound technology, including Barco laser projection and Cinemark XD, the world’s No. 1 exhibitor-branded premium large format; industry-leading penetration of upscale amenities such as expanded food and beverage offerings, Luxury Lounger recliners and D-BOX motion seats; top-notch guest service; and award-winning loyalty programs such as Cinemark Movie Club. All of this creates an immersive environment for a shared, entertaining escape, underscoring that there is no place more cinematic than Cinemark. For more information, visit https://ir.cinemark.com.

-------------------

USC Libraries Announces Finalists for the 2025 Scripter Awards

USC Libraries Name Finalists for 37th-Annual Scripter Awards

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The USC Libraries named the finalists for the 37th-annual USC Libraries Scripter Awards, which honor the writers of the year’s most accomplished film and episodic series adaptations, as well as the writers of the works on which they are based.

The finalist writers for film adaptation are, in alphabetical order by film title:

-- James Mangold and Jay Cocks for “A Complete Unknown” based on the nonfiction book “Dylan Goes Electric! Newport, Seeger, Dylan, and the Night That Split the Sixties” by Elijah Wald

Peter Straughan for “Conclave” based on the novel by Robert Harris

-- RaMell Ross and Joslyn Barnes for “Nickel Boys” based on the book “The Nickel Boys” by Colson Whitehead

-- Clint Bentley and Greg Kwedar (screenplay and story) and Clarence Maclin and John “Divine G” Whitfield (story) for “Sing Sing” based on the “Esquire” magazine article “The Sing Sing Follies” by John H. Richardson

--  Screenwriter Chris Sanders and novelist Peter Brown for “The Wild Robot”

The finalist writers for episodic series are, in alphabetical order by series title:

-- Richard Gadd for the sixth episode of “Baby Reindeer,” based on his stage play of the same name

-- Steven Zaillian for “V Lucio,” the fifth episode of “Ripley,” based on “The Talented Mr. Ripley” by Patricia Highsmith

-- Joshua Zetumer for the episode “The People in the Dirt” from “Say Nothing,” based on the nonfiction book “Say Nothing: A True Story of Murder and Memory in Northern Ireland” by Patrick Radden Keefe

-- Rachel Kondo and Justin Marks for “Anjin,” the first episode of “Shōgun,” based on the novel by James Clavell

-- Will Smith for the episode “Hello Goodbye,” from “Slow Horses,” based on the novel “Spook Street” by Mick Herron

The 2025 Scripter selection committee selected the finalists from a field of 42 film and 66 episodic series adaptations. Howard Rodman, USC professor and Vice President/Secretary of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, chairs the 2025 committee.

The studios distributing the finalist films and current publishers of the printed works are:

“A Complete Unknown”—Searchlight Pictures and Dey Street Books

“Conclave”—Focus Features and Vintage Books

“Nickel Boys”—Amazon MGM Studios and Vintage Books

“Sing Sing”—A24 and Esquire

“The Wild Robot”—Universal Pictures and Little, Brown and Company

The networks and streaming platforms broadcasting the finalist episodic series and current publishers of the works are:

“Baby Reindeer”—Netflix and Methuen Drama

“Ripley”—Netflix and Vintage Books

“Say Nothing”—FX/Hulu and Vintage Books

“Shōgun”—FX/Hulu and Blackstone Publishing

“Slow Horses”—Apple TV+ and Soho Crime

The USC Libraries will announce the winning authors and screenwriters at a black-tie ceremony on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025, in the Town & Gown ballroom at the University of Southern California.

Since 1988, Scripter has honored the authors of original works alongside the screenwriters who adapt their stories. For more information about Scripter, including ticket availability, please email scripter@usc.edu or visit scripter.usc.edu.

-----------------

John David Washington is the Face of New Tom Ford Fragance

TOM FORD Bois Pacifique Campaign starring John David Washington. Photo Credit: David Sims

TOM FORD Unveils New Bois Pacifique Fragrance Campaign Starring Actor John David Washington

 

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Introducing actor John David Washington for new TOM FORD Signature fragrance "Bois Pacifique" in a campaign that embodies the vitality and freedom of fearless self-expression.

As a SAG and Golden Globe-nominated actor, Washington has written his own narrative through discipline, perseverance and a desire to consistently challenge himself and his craft. Washington pivoted his career path to pursue a longstanding but denied passion for acting. Committed to carving out a new identity for himself, he first found his footing in HBO’s hit series “Ballers” in 2015, followed by an explosively star-making lead role in Spike Lee’s “BlacKkKlansman,” which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and earned him Golden Globe, SAG and NAACP Image Award nominations. Catching the eye of the industry’s most prominent auteur directors, he went on to star in Christopher Nolan’s “Tenet,” Sam Levinson’s “Malcolm & Marie,” David O. Russell’s “Amsterdam,” and Gareth Edwards’ “The Creator.” He currently stars in the film adaptation of August Wilson’s “The Piano Lesson” for Netflix, after first inhabiting the role of ‘Boy Willie’ in the celebrated 2022 Broadway revival. These transformative roles have cemented Washington as an actor leading a modern Hollywood conversation.

The campaign is lensed by David Sims, a cinematic vignette of a writer on a journey. Launching on January 21, 2025, the campaign images and video show Washington immersing himself in the grandeur of Big Sur in Northern California. A curiosity and the promise of unbridled creative freedom pulling him closer to a destination of awe-inspiring light and transcendence. The pursuit for inner peace takes Washington on an epic journey to a place where profound beauty and self-discovery converge—a place where he finds himself within the power of the ancient redwoods.

Available in January, Bois Pacifique explores an infinite freedom found amidst the majestic elements of nature. Sandalwood, cedar and oakwood facets comprise the forest of Bois Pacifique. Essence of cardamom, brilliant akigalawood™ and aromatic turmeric conjure a radiant sensuality that emanates from the earthy woods. Bois Pacifique is a woody spicy creation that has a presence truly befitting of its inspiration.

---------------------

Marvel Unleashes First "DAREDEVIL: BORN AGAIN" Trailer

Marvel Television has shared the first trailer for Daredevil: Born Again, the highly anticipated new series debuting March 4, 2025 on Disney+. Charlie Cox returns as lawyer-slash-vigilante Matt Murdock, with Vincent D’Onofrio as Kingpin/Wilson Fisk. The series also stars Jon Bernthal, Deborah Ann Woll, and Elden Henson.

------------------------------

------------------------------

First Official Teaser for DC Studios' "SUPERMAN" Film Has Arrives

From Warner Bros. Discovery:

“Superman,” DC Studios’ first feature film to hit the big screen, is set to soar into theaters worldwide this summer from Warner Bros. Pictures. In his signature style, James Gunn takes on the original superhero in the newly imagined DC Universe with a singular blend of epic action, humor, and heart, delivering a Superman who’s driven by compassion and an inherent belief in the goodness of humankind.

Superman, directed by James Gunn, opens July 11, 2025. Warner Bros. has released the first teaser trailer for the film, which you can see below this text:

------------------------

-------------------------

First Teaser Poster for James Gunn's "SUPERMAN" Has Been Released

From Warner Bros. Discovery:

“Superman,” DC Studios’ first feature film to hit the big screen, is set to soar into theaters worldwide this summer from Warner Bros. Pictures. In his signature style, James Gunn takes on the original superhero in the newly imagined DC Universe with a singular blend of epic action, humor, and heart, delivering a Superman who’s driven by compassion and an inherent belief in the goodness of humankind.

Superman, directed by James Gunn, opens July 11, 2025. Warner Bros. has released the first teaser poster for the film, which you can see below this text:

--------------------------------------

First Episode of Max/DC Studios' "CREATURE COMMANDOS" is Streaming Free

The seven-episode Max Original adult animated series "Creature Commandos," written and executive produced by James Gunn, debuted Thursday, December 5, 2024 on Max followed by one episode weekly until January 16, 2025.

 

Logline: Creature Commandos tracks a secret team of incarcerated monsters recruited for missions deemed too dangerous for humans. When all else fails… they’re your last, worst option.

 

Cast: Steve Agee as Economos, Maria Bakalova as Princess Ilana, Anya Chalotra as Circe, Zoe Chao as Nina Mazursky, Frank Grillo as Rick Flag Sr., Sean Gunn as GI Robot & Weasel, David Harbour as Frankenstein, Alan Tudyk as Dr. Phosphorus, Indira Varma as The Bride, and Viola Davis as Amanda Waller.

 

Credits: Creature Commandos is written and executive produced by James Gunn. Based on DC characters and produced by DC Studios and Warner Bros. Animation; additional executive producers include Peter Safran, Dean Lorey, and Sam Register; Rick Morales serves as a supervising producer.

Max has made the first episode of "Creature Commandos" available to stream free on YouTube:

----------------------

----------------------

Comcast Plans to Dump Most of Its Cable Television Networks into Spin-off Company

Comcast Announces Intention to Create Leading Independent Media Business Through Spin-off of Select Cable Television Networks

New company to provide world-class news, sports and entertainment with significant scale and resources

Media veterans Mark Lazarus and Anand Kini to lead the new company

Comcast will continue its strategic focus on driving its core growth businesses, including residential broadband, wireless, business services and NBCUniversal’s streaming, studios and theme parks

Tax-free transaction expected to be completed in approximately one year

PHILADELPHIA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ: CMCSA) today announced its intent to create a new publicly traded company comprised of a strong portfolio of NBCUniversal’s cable television networks, including USA Network, CNBC, MSNBC, Oxygen, E!, SYFY and Golf Channel along with complementary digital assets including Fandango and Rotten Tomatoes, GolfNow and Sports Engine, through a tax-free spin-off. The well-capitalized independent company (“SpinCo”) will have significant scale as a pure-play set of assets anchored by leading news, sports and entertainment content.

SpinCo will be an industry-leading news, sports and entertainment cable television business with a focused strategic direction. SpinCo’s stable of marquee brands will provide a diverse and differentiated content offering that will reach approximately 70 million U.S. households.

“When you look at our assets, talented management team and balance sheet strength, we are able to set these businesses up for future growth,” said Brian L. Roberts, Chairman and CEO of Comcast. “With significant financial resources from day one, SpinCo will be ideally positioned for success and highly attractive to investors, content creators, distributors and potential partners.”

The planned spin-off will also strategically position NBCUniversal with its leading broadcast and streaming media properties, including NBC entertainment, sports, news and Bravo – which all power Peacock – along with Telemundo, the theme parks business and film and television studios.

“This transaction positions both SpinCo and NBCUniversal to play offense in a changing media landscape,” said Mike Cavanagh, President of Comcast. “Taken together, the entirety of NBCUniversal will be on a new growth trajectory, fueled by our world-class content, technology, IP, properties and talent – all working in concert with each other as an integrated media company.”

As a global media and technology company, Comcast will be well-positioned to continue to invest in its strategic core growth businesses across its Content & Experiences and Connectivity & Platforms businesses, including residential broadband, wireless, business services, streaming, studios and theme parks. The transaction is expected to be accretive to revenue growth at Comcast and approximately neutral to Comcast’s leverage position. The company does not anticipate any change to its credit profile or ratings as a result of this transaction.

SpinCo Leadership Team and Profile:

SpinCo will be led by an experienced and well-respected management team. Mark Lazarus, current Chairman of NBCUniversal Media Group, will serve as the company’s Chief Executive Officer, and Anand Kini, current Chief Financial Officer of NBCUniversal and EVP of Corporate Strategy at Comcast, as its Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer. Together they will lead the development of an independent strategy, while also establishing SpinCo as a potential partner and acquirer of other complementary media businesses.

“As a standalone company with these outstanding assets, we will be better positioned to serve our audiences and drive shareholder returns in this incredibly dynamic media environment across news, sports and entertainment,” said Mark Lazarus. “We see a real opportunity to invest and build additional scale and I'm excited about the growth opportunities this transition will unlock. Our financial strength will also provide capacity for an attractive capital return policy while allowing for investment in the growth of these businesses.”

Over the last twelve months ended September 30, 2024, SpinCo generated approximately $7 billion in revenue. SpinCo will have the same dual-class share structure as Comcast. As an independent company, SpinCo will be better positioned to achieve long-term growth and create value for stakeholders, benefitting from:

• Financial flexibility to pursue growth opportunities
• A dedicated management team with deep sector expertise that can tailor decisions and allocate capital based on the needs of the business
• Well capitalized balance sheet with strong credit metrics
• Capacity for attractive capital return policy to drive shareholder value
• Increased operational focus
• Dedicated board of directors
• While SpinCo will operate as an independent business, it will enter into a transition services agreement with NBCUniversal to allow SpinCo to operate seamlessly from day one.

Transaction Details:

Comcast is targeting to complete the spin-off in approximately one year, subject to the satisfaction of customary conditions, including obtaining final approval from the Comcast Board of Directors, satisfactory completion of SpinCo financing, receipt of tax opinions and receipt of any regulatory approvals. There can be no assurance that a separation transaction will occur, or, if one does occur, of its terms or timing.

Advisors:

Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC are serving as financial advisors to Comcast, and Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP is serving as legal counsel.

About Comcast Corporation:

Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information.

Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements:

This press release includes statements that may constitute forward-looking statements. In evaluating these statements, readers should consider various factors, including the risks and uncertainties we describe in the “Risk Factors” sections of our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, our most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements include changes in and/or risks associated with: the competitive environment; consumer behavior; the advertising market; consumer acceptance of our content; programming costs; key distribution and/or licensing agreements; use and protection of our intellectual property; our reliance on third-party hardware, software and operational support; keeping pace with technological developments; cyber attacks, security breaches or technology disruptions; weak economic conditions; acquisitions and strategic initiatives; operating businesses internationally; natural disasters, severe weather-related and other uncontrollable events; loss of key personnel; labor disputes; laws and regulations; adverse decisions in litigation or governmental investigations; and other risks described from time to time in reports and other documents we file with the SEC. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made, and involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or our actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any such forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise. The amount and timing of any dividends and share repurchases are subject to business, economic and other relevant factors.

----------------------

Laika Returns Stop-Motion Animated Film, "CORALINE," to Theaters for Halloween

LAIKA Sets Coraline Limited-Time Return Engagement for Halloween Starting October 31st Through Fathom and Trafalgar Releasing

Award-winning studio’s debut film garnered over $53M in Global Box Office in Theatrical Return over the Summer

HILLSBORO, Ore.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--After a summertime return to theaters that grossed over $53M in global box office, LAIKA’s acclaimed 2009 stop-motion animated film, Coraline, returns to theaters for a special Halloween engagement starting on October 31st, 2024. In partnership with Fathom in the US and Trafalgar Releasing internationally, the film is offered in stunning, newly remastered 3D as well as 2D formats.

“Everyone at LAIKA is elated by the global success of the Coraline re-release and we’re delighted to offer one more chance to see it this year during Halloween festivities”

In addition to the U.S., the Halloween engagement of Coraline includes the UK, Ireland, Australia, Canada, Austria, and Ecuador with more territories to follow. France and Italy will also begin their Coraline 15th Anniversary engagements this November.

Fans attending Coraline will be treated to an early glimpse of LAIKA’s upcoming film, Wildwood.

The 15th Anniversary theatrical re-release of Coraline this past August was an astonishing success, surpassing all estimates.

Since its re-release on August 15th, 2024, Coraline has brought in over $53M* at the global box office:

Highest lifetime US gross box office of all time for a stop-motion animated feature, beating The Nightmare Before Christmas and Chicken Run.

Highest-grossing re-release in the US in the past decade.

Highest-grossing release (new and re-releases) in Fathom’s 20-year history.

Highest-grossing re-release in the past 25 years in the UK, beating the 25th anniversary of Titanic and the 20th anniversary of ET: The Extra-Terrestrial.

Highest-grossing re-release in Mexico’s history, surpassing the 25th Anniversary of Star Wars: The Phantom Menace and the 20th Anniversary of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone.

Film surpassed its original 2009 box office throughout Latin America, including Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Nicaragua, Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Bolivia.

Tickets go on sale in the US starting Friday, October 4, 2024. For information and to buy tickets, please visit: www.coraline.com.

“Everyone at LAIKA is elated by the global success of the Coraline re-release and we’re delighted to offer one more chance to see it this year during Halloween festivities,” said David Burke, LAIKA’s Chief Marketing & Operations Officer. “In addition to becoming Fathom’s highest-grossing release in the US, Coraline set box office records in multiple international territories, including the UK and Mexico, through our partnership with Trafalgar Releasing. We are humbled by the millions of fans around the world who came out to experience Coraline in dazzling remastered 3D on the big screen this summer, making the 15th anniversary a cultural phenomenon.”

Coraline is a wondrous and thrilling, fun and suspenseful animated adventure. Coraline was written and directed by stop-motion auteur Henry Selick (The Nightmare Before Christmas, Wendell & Wild) and stars Dakota Fanning, Ian McShane, Teri Hatcher, Keith David, John Hodgman, and British comedy duo Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders. The film was nominated for the Oscar® and Golden Globe; won the Cristal Award at Annecy and was named one of the best films of the year by AFI. It won three Annie Awards for Best Music, Character Design and Production Design.

11-year-old Coraline Jones (Fanning) is feisty, curious, and intrepid beyond her years. She and her parents (Hatcher, Hodgman) have just relocated from Michigan to Oregon. Missing her friends and finding her parents to be distracted by their work, Coraline tries to find some excitement in her new environment but seriously doubts that her new home can provide anything truly intriguing to her. But when she walks through a secret door in her living room and ventures down an eerie passageway, she discovers an alternate version of her life and existence. On the surface, this parallel reality is similar to her real life – only much better. The adults, including the solicitous Other Mother (Hatcher), seem much more welcoming to her. Even the mysterious Cat (David) now regards her as the center of attention. She begins to think that this Other World might be where she belongs. But when her wondrously off-kilter, fantastical visit turns dangerous and Other Mother schemes to keep her there, Coraline musters all of her resourcefulness, determination, and bravery to get back home – and save her family.

*Comscore

About LAIKA:

LAIKA was founded in 2005 in Oregon by President & CEO Travis Knight. The studio’s five films Coraline (2009), ParaNorman (2012), The Boxtrolls (2014), Kubo and the Two Strings (2016) and Missing Link (2019) have all been nominated for the Academy Award® for Outstanding Animated Feature. Kubo and the Two Strings won the BAFTA® Award for Best Animated Film and received an additional Oscar® nomination for Visual Effects. Missing Link was awarded the Golden Globe® for Best Animated Film. LAIKA was awarded a Scientific and Technology Oscar® in 2016 for its innovation in 3D printing. LAIKA is currently in production on its next animated film Wildwood. The studio is developing the animated feature films The Night Gardener, from an original idea by Bill Dubuque, creator of the hit series Ozark, and Piranesi, based on the NYT bestselling novel by Susanna Clarke. LAIKA has launched a Live Action subsidiary with a range of projects in development including feature films based on the action thriller novel Seventeen by screenwriter John Brownlow and an original script Crumble, written and directed by Brian Duffield with Phil Lord and Chris Miller producing. Oscar®-nominated screenwriter Jon Spaihts (Dune) will write and make his directorial debut on another original live action film project. www.laika.com

About Fathom Events:

Fathom Events is a recognized leader in the entertainment industry as one of the top distributors of content to movie theaters in North America. Owned by AMC Entertainment Inc. (NYSE: AMC); Cinemark Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CNK); and Regal, a subsidiary of the Cineworld Group (LSE: CINE.L), Fathom operates the largest cinema distribution network, delivering a wide variety of programming and experiences to cinema audiences in all the top U.S. markets and to more than 45 countries. For more information, visit FathomEvents.com.

About Trafalgar Releasing:

Trafalgar Releasing, the global leader in event cinema distribution, harnesses the power of cinema to bring fans together in more than 15,000 cinemas across 132 countries. A subsidiary of Trafalgar Entertainment, Trafalgar Releasing’s operations include production, acquisition, marketing, and distribution of live or pre-recorded content to cinemas worldwide led by an international team based in the UK, US and Germany. Featuring live concerts, music documentaries, world-class opera, award-winning theatre, and more from leading names in entertainment such as Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, BTS, Metallica, Oasis, Coldplay, Billie Eilish, the Royal Opera House and others, Trafalgar Releasing has repeatedly shattered event cinema box office records, most recently with international distribution for TAYLOR SWIFT | THE ERAS TOUR, the highest-grossing concert film of all time. Information about Trafalgar Releasing can be found at www.trafalgar-releasing.com.

-------------------------

Marvel Studios Releases First Teaser Trailer for 2025 Film, "THUNDERBOLTS"

Marvel Studios' Thunderbolts will arrive in theaters on May 2, 2025.

Director:  Jake Schreier

Cast: David Harbour, Hannah John-Kamen, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Sebastian Stan, Wyatt Russell, Geraldine Viswanathan, Lewis Pullman, Olga Kurylenko and Florence Pugh

Release Date: May 2, 2025

-------------------------------

--------------------------------

Marvel Studios Releases First Teaser Poster for 2025 Film, "THUNDERBOLTS"

Marvel Studios' Thunderbolts will arrive in theaters on May 2, 2025.

Director:  Jake Schreier

Cast: David Harbour, Hannah John-Kamen, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Sebastian Stan, Wyatt Russell, Geraldine Viswanathan, Lewis Pullman, Olga Kurylenko and Florence Pugh

Release Date: May 2, 2025

-----------------------

-------------------------------------