Lucas Museum of Narrative Art to Call Chicago Home
- Museum will be dedicated to Narrative Art – the telling of stories visually
- Key objective will be to inspire and educate future generations
CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art (LMNA) today announced its intention to become a member of Chicago’s vibrant cultural arts scene by locating on the city’s Museum Campus. LMNA will be a gathering place to experience narrative art and the evolution of the visual image – from illustration to cinema to digital arts.
“George Lucas has revolutionized the art of storytelling over the last four decades and we are honored to be the recipient of this incredible legacy investment that will allow everyone to learn about and experience narrative arts”
“We are honored to be partnering with the city of Chicago and the many cultural, educational and community groups that have come forward with ideas about how the LMNA will add to their work,” said George Lucas, the Museum’s founder. “I am humbled to be joining such an extraordinary museum community and to be creating the Museum in a city that has a long tradition of embracing the arts and architecture.”
“George Lucas has revolutionized the art of storytelling over the last four decades and we are honored to be the recipient of this incredible legacy investment that will allow everyone to learn about and experience narrative arts,” said Mayor Rahm Emanuel. “Like Marshall Field, John G. Shedd and Max Adler before him, George’s philanthropy will inspire and educate for generations. No other museum like this exists in the world, making it a tremendous educational, cultural and job creation asset for all Chicagoans, as well as an unparalleled draw for international tourists.”
The LMNA, previously known as the Lucas Cultural Arts Museum, chose Chicago because of the quality of the site proposed by the city’s task force. The 17-acre site offers unparalleled visitor access. “Choosing Chicago is the right decision for the Museum, but a difficult decision for me personally because of my strong personal and professional roots in the Bay Area,” said Mr. Lucas, a native of Modesto, Ca. “I thank all Californians who reached out to me in support of the Museum.”
The Museum’s location, proposed by a task force appointed by Mayor Emanuel, was selected based on its accessibility to public transportation, ease of access from all parts of the city, potential to create significant new green space, and its ability to accommodate an iconic structure. The LMNA will transform the site by moving the existing parking spaces underground and replacing acres of asphalt with more parkland along the harbor. Architectural renderings for the proposed site will be presented to the City of Chicago in early fall.
“It is a great privilege for the Museum to be a custodian of this cherished land,” said Mr. Lucas, who hopes to open the LMNA in 2018.
To learn more about the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art and its collection visit us online at www.LucasMuseum.org.
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
"The Intern" Begins Filming in New York with De Niro and Hathaway
It’s the First Day of Work for “The Intern”
Oscar winners Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway Star Under the Direction of Nancy Meyers
BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Academy Award winners Robert De Niro (“Raging Bull,” “Silver Linings Playbook”) and Anne Hathaway (“Les Misérables,” “The Devil Wears Prada”) star together in Warner Bros. Pictures’ “The Intern,” which began filming today in New York. Oscar-nominated and award-winning filmmaker Nancy Meyers (“It’s Complicated,” “Something’s Gotta Give,” “Private Benjamin”) is directing the comedy from her own screenplay.
Meyers is also producing the film, together with Scott Rudin and Suzanne Farwell. Celia Costas is serving as executive producer.
The film’s multi-generational cast also features Rene Russo (“Thor”), Andrew Rannells (“Girls”), Adam DeVine (“Pitch Perfect”), Nat Wolff (“The Fault in Our Stars”), Anders Holm (“Workaholics”), Linda Lavin (“Wanderlust”), Zack Pearlman (“The Inbetweeners”), Reid Scott (“Veep”), newcomer Jason Orley, and Christina Scherer (“Living with Uncle Charlie”).
In “The Intern,” De Niro stars as Ben Whittaker, a 70-year-old widower who has discovered that retirement isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Seizing an opportunity to get back in the game, he becomes a senior intern at an online fashion site, founded and run by Jules Ostin (Hathaway).
Meyers’ behind-the-scenes creative team is headed by Oscar-nominated director of photography Stephen Goldblatt (“The Prince of Tides,” “The Help”), Oscar-nominated production designer Kristi Zea (“Revolutionary Road,” “GoodFellas,” “Tower Heist”), Oscar-nominated editor Bob Leighton (“A Few Good Men,” “Now You See Me”) and costume designer Jacqueline Demeterio (“The Other Woman,” “The Big C”).
“The Intern” is being filmed entirely in and around New York City.
Oscar winners Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway Star Under the Direction of Nancy Meyers
BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Academy Award winners Robert De Niro (“Raging Bull,” “Silver Linings Playbook”) and Anne Hathaway (“Les Misérables,” “The Devil Wears Prada”) star together in Warner Bros. Pictures’ “The Intern,” which began filming today in New York. Oscar-nominated and award-winning filmmaker Nancy Meyers (“It’s Complicated,” “Something’s Gotta Give,” “Private Benjamin”) is directing the comedy from her own screenplay.
Meyers is also producing the film, together with Scott Rudin and Suzanne Farwell. Celia Costas is serving as executive producer.
The film’s multi-generational cast also features Rene Russo (“Thor”), Andrew Rannells (“Girls”), Adam DeVine (“Pitch Perfect”), Nat Wolff (“The Fault in Our Stars”), Anders Holm (“Workaholics”), Linda Lavin (“Wanderlust”), Zack Pearlman (“The Inbetweeners”), Reid Scott (“Veep”), newcomer Jason Orley, and Christina Scherer (“Living with Uncle Charlie”).
In “The Intern,” De Niro stars as Ben Whittaker, a 70-year-old widower who has discovered that retirement isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Seizing an opportunity to get back in the game, he becomes a senior intern at an online fashion site, founded and run by Jules Ostin (Hathaway).
Meyers’ behind-the-scenes creative team is headed by Oscar-nominated director of photography Stephen Goldblatt (“The Prince of Tides,” “The Help”), Oscar-nominated production designer Kristi Zea (“Revolutionary Road,” “GoodFellas,” “Tower Heist”), Oscar-nominated editor Bob Leighton (“A Few Good Men,” “Now You See Me”) and costume designer Jacqueline Demeterio (“The Other Woman,” “The Big C”).
“The Intern” is being filmed entirely in and around New York City.
Starz Announces New Steven Soderbergh Project
Starz Greenlights “The Girlfriend Experience” from Steven Soderbergh, Philip Fleishman, Lodge Kerrigan and Amy Seimetz
Anthology Series Inspired by Soderbergh’s 2009 Film Explores a World Where Love Has a Price
BEVERLY HILLS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Starz today announced the greenlight of “The Girlfriend Experience,” a 13-part anthology series produced by Transactional Pictures. Inspired by the 2009 Magnolia Pictures film of the same title, Steven Soderbergh and Philip Fleishman will serve as executive producers along with independent filmmakers Lodge Kerrigan and Amy Seimetz, who will also write and direct on the series.
“We’re in an exciting period of auteur-driven television right now”
The scripted anthology series will feature 13 half-hour episodes.
“The Girlfriend Experience” explores the relationships of the most exclusive courtesans who provide their clients with far more than just sex. These purveyors – or GFEs (Girlfriend Experience) – share intimacies more common to romantic partners or husbands and wives, becoming quasi-lovers and confidants who are richly paid for their time.
The original feature, directed by Soderbergh and written by Brian Koppelman and David Levien, screened at the Sundance Film Festival in 2009.
Chris Albrecht, CEO of Starz said, “We are all such fans of the movie that the idea of exploring this world through many different characters, voices and points of view was especially intriguing. Steven and Philip’s approach to the format is unique and not something seen on the entertainment landscape today. Working with Steven is always a thrill, and we are excited to break the mold with this project yet again.”
“We’re in an exciting period of auteur-driven television right now,” said Executive Producer Steven Soderbergh. “When Philip floated the idea of a Girlfriend Experience-inspired television show, I thought: ‘let’s make it a different woman in a different city, let’s pair two independent writer/directors, one male and one female, and let them do the whole thing.’ I’ve known Lodge for 20 years and I became a fan of Amy’s when I saw her first feature last summer. We went to Chris Albrecht because he and I have been trying to find something to do together since we did “K Street” 11 years ago. He responded without hesitation to both the idea of the show and the approach.”
“We’re excited to work with Steven and Philip to develop this anthology series that takes viewers into a world where intimacy has a price. We were captivated by Steven’s exploration of a story where emotional consequences arise, surprising and complicating the lives of both the clients and the professional ‘lovers’,” said Carmi Zlotnik, Managing Director of Starz. “This series gives Starz an opportunity to work with some of the most talented independent filmmakers of today, and craft a cinematic exploration into the hearts of relationships – in line with the original film.”
“Many of these women are extremely accomplished,” said Executive Producer Philip Fleishman. “They range from musicians in major orchestras to PhD candidates in the sciences and often feel empowered by the control and economic freedom their work as GFE’s affords them. The question is whether they define a new genus of contemporary relationship, or have relationships always been transactionally based in one form or another?”
Soderbergh, whose distinguished career spans across television, film and stage, won a 2013 Emmy® Award for Outstanding Directing for the television film “Behind the Candelabra” which debuted on HBO last year. He earned the Academy® Award in 2000 for directing Traffic, the same year he was nominated for Erin Brockovich. Soderbergh earlier gained an Academy® Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay for sex, lies, and videotape, his feature film directorial debut. His other credits include Magic Mike, Contagion, The Oceans Trilogy, Out of Sight, King of the Hill and many other films and documentaries.
Fleishman, who produced Soderbergh’s concert film about the group Yes in 1985, is a writer, producer, documentary journalist, and entrepreneur with a legal background who attended the York University Film School. Nominated for a Peabody® award for his 13-hour CBC documentary series "The Future of the Jews," Fleishman founded and became a principal owner of Command Post and Transfer Corp. Command Post was later acquired by Technicolor.
Soderbergh is represented by Anonymous Content, Michael Sugar and Lichter, Grossman, Nichols, Adler & Feldman. Fleishman is represented by Alan Abrams, at Coste, Abrams & Coat, LLP. Kerrigan is represented by WME. Seimetz is represented by WME and Chis Evans and Heather Reynolds at One Entertainment.
“The Girlfriend Experience” is produced by Transactional Pictures, which licensed the rights from the owner of the original feature film, Magnolia Pictures. Starz will retain all domestic multiplatform pay TV rights and serve as the worldwide distributor of all other rights to the series.
About Starz
Starz (NASDAQ: STRZA, STRZB) is a leading integrated global media and entertainment company with operating units that provide premium subscription video programming on domestic U.S. pay television channels (Starz Networks), global content distribution (Starz Distribution) and animated television and movie production (Starz Animation), www.starz.com.
Starz Networks is a leading provider of premium subscription video programming through the flagship STARZ® and ENCORE® pay TV networks which showcase premium original programming and movies to U.S. multichannel video distributors, including cable operators, satellite television providers, and telecommunications companies. As of March 31, 2014, STARZ and ENCORE serve a combined 56.3 million subscribers, including 21.9 million at STARZ, and 34.4 million at ENCORE, making them the largest pair of premium flagship channels in the U.S. STARZ® and ENCORE®, along with Starz Networks’ third network MOVIEPLEX®, air over 1,000 movies monthly across 17 linear networks, complemented by On Demand and authenticated online offerings through STARZ PLAY, ENCORE PLAY, and MOVIEPLEX PLAY. Starz Distribution develops, produces and acquires entertainment content, distributing it to consumers globally on DVD, digital formats and traditional television. Starz Distribution’s home video, digital media and worldwide distribution business units distribute original programming content produced by Starz, as well as entertainment content for itself and third parties. Starz Animation produces animated TV and movie content for studios, networks, distributors and audiences worldwide.
Anthology Series Inspired by Soderbergh’s 2009 Film Explores a World Where Love Has a Price
BEVERLY HILLS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Starz today announced the greenlight of “The Girlfriend Experience,” a 13-part anthology series produced by Transactional Pictures. Inspired by the 2009 Magnolia Pictures film of the same title, Steven Soderbergh and Philip Fleishman will serve as executive producers along with independent filmmakers Lodge Kerrigan and Amy Seimetz, who will also write and direct on the series.
“We’re in an exciting period of auteur-driven television right now”
The scripted anthology series will feature 13 half-hour episodes.
“The Girlfriend Experience” explores the relationships of the most exclusive courtesans who provide their clients with far more than just sex. These purveyors – or GFEs (Girlfriend Experience) – share intimacies more common to romantic partners or husbands and wives, becoming quasi-lovers and confidants who are richly paid for their time.
The original feature, directed by Soderbergh and written by Brian Koppelman and David Levien, screened at the Sundance Film Festival in 2009.
Chris Albrecht, CEO of Starz said, “We are all such fans of the movie that the idea of exploring this world through many different characters, voices and points of view was especially intriguing. Steven and Philip’s approach to the format is unique and not something seen on the entertainment landscape today. Working with Steven is always a thrill, and we are excited to break the mold with this project yet again.”
“We’re in an exciting period of auteur-driven television right now,” said Executive Producer Steven Soderbergh. “When Philip floated the idea of a Girlfriend Experience-inspired television show, I thought: ‘let’s make it a different woman in a different city, let’s pair two independent writer/directors, one male and one female, and let them do the whole thing.’ I’ve known Lodge for 20 years and I became a fan of Amy’s when I saw her first feature last summer. We went to Chris Albrecht because he and I have been trying to find something to do together since we did “K Street” 11 years ago. He responded without hesitation to both the idea of the show and the approach.”
“We’re excited to work with Steven and Philip to develop this anthology series that takes viewers into a world where intimacy has a price. We were captivated by Steven’s exploration of a story where emotional consequences arise, surprising and complicating the lives of both the clients and the professional ‘lovers’,” said Carmi Zlotnik, Managing Director of Starz. “This series gives Starz an opportunity to work with some of the most talented independent filmmakers of today, and craft a cinematic exploration into the hearts of relationships – in line with the original film.”
“Many of these women are extremely accomplished,” said Executive Producer Philip Fleishman. “They range from musicians in major orchestras to PhD candidates in the sciences and often feel empowered by the control and economic freedom their work as GFE’s affords them. The question is whether they define a new genus of contemporary relationship, or have relationships always been transactionally based in one form or another?”
Soderbergh, whose distinguished career spans across television, film and stage, won a 2013 Emmy® Award for Outstanding Directing for the television film “Behind the Candelabra” which debuted on HBO last year. He earned the Academy® Award in 2000 for directing Traffic, the same year he was nominated for Erin Brockovich. Soderbergh earlier gained an Academy® Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay for sex, lies, and videotape, his feature film directorial debut. His other credits include Magic Mike, Contagion, The Oceans Trilogy, Out of Sight, King of the Hill and many other films and documentaries.
Fleishman, who produced Soderbergh’s concert film about the group Yes in 1985, is a writer, producer, documentary journalist, and entrepreneur with a legal background who attended the York University Film School. Nominated for a Peabody® award for his 13-hour CBC documentary series "The Future of the Jews," Fleishman founded and became a principal owner of Command Post and Transfer Corp. Command Post was later acquired by Technicolor.
Soderbergh is represented by Anonymous Content, Michael Sugar and Lichter, Grossman, Nichols, Adler & Feldman. Fleishman is represented by Alan Abrams, at Coste, Abrams & Coat, LLP. Kerrigan is represented by WME. Seimetz is represented by WME and Chis Evans and Heather Reynolds at One Entertainment.
“The Girlfriend Experience” is produced by Transactional Pictures, which licensed the rights from the owner of the original feature film, Magnolia Pictures. Starz will retain all domestic multiplatform pay TV rights and serve as the worldwide distributor of all other rights to the series.
About Starz
Starz (NASDAQ: STRZA, STRZB) is a leading integrated global media and entertainment company with operating units that provide premium subscription video programming on domestic U.S. pay television channels (Starz Networks), global content distribution (Starz Distribution) and animated television and movie production (Starz Animation), www.starz.com.
Starz Networks is a leading provider of premium subscription video programming through the flagship STARZ® and ENCORE® pay TV networks which showcase premium original programming and movies to U.S. multichannel video distributors, including cable operators, satellite television providers, and telecommunications companies. As of March 31, 2014, STARZ and ENCORE serve a combined 56.3 million subscribers, including 21.9 million at STARZ, and 34.4 million at ENCORE, making them the largest pair of premium flagship channels in the U.S. STARZ® and ENCORE®, along with Starz Networks’ third network MOVIEPLEX®, air over 1,000 movies monthly across 17 linear networks, complemented by On Demand and authenticated online offerings through STARZ PLAY, ENCORE PLAY, and MOVIEPLEX PLAY. Starz Distribution develops, produces and acquires entertainment content, distributing it to consumers globally on DVD, digital formats and traditional television. Starz Distribution’s home video, digital media and worldwide distribution business units distribute original programming content produced by Starz, as well as entertainment content for itself and third parties. Starz Animation produces animated TV and movie content for studios, networks, distributors and audiences worldwide.
Monday, June 23, 2014
Sat., July 5th, 2014 is "Sailor Moon Day" at 2014 Anime Expo
VIZ MEDIA CELEBRATES SAILOR MOON DAY AT 2014 ANIME EXPO
Mark The Return Of The Legendary Anime Series With A Special Series Of Events And Activities At North America’s Largest Anime Convention
VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest distributor and licensor of manga and anime in North America, celebrates the triumphant return of the SAILOR MOON anime series with a host of fun activities for SAILOR MOON Day, taking place on Saturday, July 5th during the 2014 Anime Expo.
The 2014 Anime Expo is North America’s largest anime convention, attracting more than 61,000 fans and attendees annually, and will be held July 3rd –6th at the Los Angeles Convention Center in Los Angeles, CA. Full details are available at: www.anime-expo.org. VIZ Media will be located on the main convention floor in Booth #1601.
VIZ Media marks its acquisition of the iconic fantasy anime series with a SAILOR MOON Official Panel on Saturday morning at 10AM in LP1. Hosted by the company’s Senior Manager of Animation Marketing, Charlene Ingram, and SAILOR MOON Associate Producer, Joshua Lopez, the panel will reveal for the first time the brand new cast for the freshly produced English dub and premiere the first two dubbed episodes. SAILOR MOON fans attending this official panel will get a special premium poster while supplies last! Following the Official SAILOR MOON Panel, there will be a special showing of subtitled episode one of the all-new series, SAILOR MOON CRYSTAL, in Video 1 at 12:00 Noon. The series launches on July 5th in Japan, and fans in the United States may catch the simulcast on NeonAlley.com and Hulu, with new episodes debuting each Saturday.
Fans can also look forward to a special voice cast autograph session taking place at 1:00PM in the afternoon in the Anime Expo autograph area, and a cast photo opportunity with the official Sailor Guardian Cosplayers from American Cosplay Paradise at 2:45PM in the VIZ Media Booth #1601. To round out the day’s activities, be a part of the largest gathering of SAILOR MOON cosplayers and fans in North America at 3:30PM in the Main Events Hall (LP1, Petree Hall). Bring your Sailor Guardian finest and you just might end up a part of an upcoming SAILOR MOON video release!
If you can’t make the official Sailor Moon Day activities on July 5th, VIZ Media will also be running a special SAILOR MOON event at their Anime Expo booth for the entirety of the convention. Find one of the official Sailor Guardian cosplayers at booth #1601 for information on how you can get a limited premiere event memorial coin!
VIZ Media has licensed all 5 seasons of the original SAILOR MOON anime series (rated ‘TV-14’), spanning 200 episodes, as well as all three feature films. Included is the long-running show’s fifth and climactic final season “Sailor Stars,” which has never-before been licensed for North American release. As part of the return of the series, VIZ Media is producing a fresh and uncut English dub with an all-new voice cast, will present SAILOR MOON for the first time digitally, and also plans DVD and Deluxe Blu-ray edition sets for release in time for the 2014 holiday season.
Saturday, July 5th, 10:00am SAILOR MOON OFFICIAL PANEL
Room LP1 (Petree Hall)
Join Charlene Ingram, VIZ Media’s Senior Manager, Animation Marketing, and Joshua Lopez, Associate Producer, for the exclusive world premiere of the all-new, uncut English language premiere of the legendary anime series, SAILOR MOON! The session also will introduce the cast and screen the entire first two dubbed episodes of the newly re-mastered anime series. Immediately following the premiere, there will be a very special Q & A session with the animation team and the cast and a special premium poster for attendees, while supplies last!
Saturday, July 5th, 1:00pm - SAILOR MOON CAST AUTOGRAPH SESSION
Anime Expo Autograph Area
Stop by the VIZ Media booth and pick up your very own SAILOR MOON full-color poster, personally signed by the new Official English voice cast!
Saturday, July 5th, 2:45pm - SAILOR MOON CAST PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
VIZ Media Booth #1601
Fans can take photos of the talented new Official English voice cast for SAILOR MOON with the Sailor Guardian cosplayers from American Cosplay Paradise in a special session!
Saturday, July 5th, 3:30pm - SAILOR MOON Cosplay Gathering
Room LP1 (Petree Hall)
Bring your Sailor Guardian finest and be a part of North America’s largest SAILOR MOON cosplay and fan gathering!
VIZ Media is currently featuring SAILOR MOON (subtitled) on its free NeonAlley.com anime streaming channel and also via the Neon Alley brand supported media partners Hulu and Hulu Plus. Two new SAILOR MOON episodes premiere every Monday. Visit www.NeonAlley.com and Hulu.com/sailormoon for more information.
The smash hit SAILOR MOON anime series is inspired by the bestselling manga (graphic novel) series created by Naoko Takeuchi (published in North America by Kodansha). In the series, Usagi Tsukino is a clumsy but kindhearted teenage girl who transforms into the powerful guardian of love and justice, Sailor Moon. Meeting allies along the way who share similar fates, Usagi and her team of planetary Sailor Guardians fight to protect the universe from forces of evil and total annihilation!
For more information on SAILOR MOON, or other anime titles from VIZ Media, please visit www.VIZ.com/sailormoon.
About VIZ Media, LLC
Headquartered in San Francisco, California, VIZ Media distributes, markets and licenses the best anime and manga titles direct from Japan. Owned by three of Japan's largest manga and animation companies, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan-Shueisha Productions, Co., Ltd., VIZ Media has the most extensive library of anime and manga for English speaking audiences in North America, the United Kingdom, Ireland and South Africa. With its popular digital manga anthology WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP and blockbuster properties like NARUTO, BLEACH and INUYASHA, VIZ Media offers cutting-edge action, romance and family friendly properties for anime, manga, science fiction and fantasy fans of all ages. VIZ Media properties are available as graphic novels, DVDs, animated television series, feature films, downloadable and streaming video and a variety of consumer products. Learn more about VIZ Media, anime and manga at www.VIZ.com.
Sunday, June 22, 2014
Ava DuVernay's "Selma" Gets Christmas 2014 Release
“SELMA” TO LAUNCH ON CHRISTMAS DAY
HOLLYWOOD, CA (June 20, 2014) – Paramount Pictures and Pathé announced that the feature film “SELMA” will have a limited release in the U.S. on Christmas day and will open wide on January 9, 2015. Directed by Ava DuVernay (“MIDDLE OF NOWHERE”), the film is being produced by Oprah Winfrey, Plan B, the producers of the Academy Award®-winning “TWELVE YEARS A SLAVE,” and Cloud Eight Films’ Academy Award®-winning Christian Colson (“127 HOURS,” “SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE”).
Academy Award® nominee Oprah Winfrey joins the film’s cast as Annie Lee Cooper, an elderly woman and visible leader amongst the civil rights protesters in Selma who tried to register to vote and was unfairly denied by the sheriff.
The film is currently shooting in Atlanta, Georgia, and Montgomery and Selma, Alabama.
“SELMA” is the story of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s historic struggle to secure voting rights for all people – a dangerous and terrifying campaign that culminated with the epic march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, and led to President Johnson signing the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The film’s release will celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the landmark legislation.
The film stars David Oyelowo (“INTERSTELLAR,” “LEE DANIEL’S THE BUTLER”) as Martin Luther King Jr., Tom Wilkinson (“THE GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL,” “MICHAEL CLAYTON”) as Lyndon Baines Johnson, Carmen Ejogo (“ALEX CROSS,” “PRIDE AND GLORY”) as Coretta Scott King, Andre Holland (“42,” “1600 Penn”) as Andrew Young, Omar J. Dorsey (“DJANGO UNCHAINED,” “THE BLIND SIDE”) as James Orange, Alessandro Nivola (“A MOST VIOLENT YEAR,” “AMERICAN HUSTLE”) as John Doar, Dylan Baker (“The Good Wife,” “Damages”) as J. Edgar Hoover, Giovanni Ribisi (“My Name is Earl,” “AVATAR”) as Lee White, Tessa Thompson (“Heroes,” “Veronica Mars”) as Diane Nash, Colman Domingo (“LEE DANIELS’ THE BUTLER,” “42”) as Ralph Abernathy, Stephen Root (“Justified,” “Boardwalk Empire”) as Al Lingo, Jeremy Strong (“The Good Wife,” “ZERO DARK THIRTY”) as James Reeb, with Tim Roth (“Lie to Me,” “THE INCREDIBLE HULK”) as George Wallace, and Oprah Winfrey (“LEE DANIELS’ THE BUTLER,” “THE COLOR PURPLE”) as Annie Lee Cooper.
Paramount is handling the film’s domestic distribution, Pathé is distributing in the UK and France and Pathé International will handle sales to the rest of the world.
About Paramount Pictures Corporation
Paramount Pictures Corporation (PPC), a global producer and distributor of filmed entertainment, is a unit of Viacom (NASDAQ: VIAB, VIA), a leading content company with prominent and respected film, television and digital entertainment brands. Paramount controls a collection of some of the most powerful brands in filmed entertainment, including Paramount Pictures, Paramount Animation, ParamountVantage, Paramount Classics, Insurge Pictures, MTV Films, and Nickelodeon Movies. PPC operations also include Paramount Home Media Distribution, Paramount Pictures International, Paramount Licensing Inc., and Paramount Studio Group.
About Pathé
Pathé is one of the leading European film production and distribution companies with offices in both Paris and London. It is involved in all aspects of filmmaking, from development and production through to international sales and distribution. Films produced/distributed by Pathé range from THE QUEEN to SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE and from THE IRON LADY to PHILOMENA. Pathé’s upcoming releases include Matthew Warchus’ PRIDE starring Bill Nighy and Imelda Staunton; and Sarah Gavron’s SUFFRAGETTE starring Carey Mulligan, Helena Bonham-Carter, Brendan Gleeson and Meryl Streep.
HOLLYWOOD, CA (June 20, 2014) – Paramount Pictures and Pathé announced that the feature film “SELMA” will have a limited release in the U.S. on Christmas day and will open wide on January 9, 2015. Directed by Ava DuVernay (“MIDDLE OF NOWHERE”), the film is being produced by Oprah Winfrey, Plan B, the producers of the Academy Award®-winning “TWELVE YEARS A SLAVE,” and Cloud Eight Films’ Academy Award®-winning Christian Colson (“127 HOURS,” “SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE”).
Academy Award® nominee Oprah Winfrey joins the film’s cast as Annie Lee Cooper, an elderly woman and visible leader amongst the civil rights protesters in Selma who tried to register to vote and was unfairly denied by the sheriff.
The film is currently shooting in Atlanta, Georgia, and Montgomery and Selma, Alabama.
“SELMA” is the story of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s historic struggle to secure voting rights for all people – a dangerous and terrifying campaign that culminated with the epic march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, and led to President Johnson signing the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The film’s release will celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the landmark legislation.
The film stars David Oyelowo (“INTERSTELLAR,” “LEE DANIEL’S THE BUTLER”) as Martin Luther King Jr., Tom Wilkinson (“THE GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL,” “MICHAEL CLAYTON”) as Lyndon Baines Johnson, Carmen Ejogo (“ALEX CROSS,” “PRIDE AND GLORY”) as Coretta Scott King, Andre Holland (“42,” “1600 Penn”) as Andrew Young, Omar J. Dorsey (“DJANGO UNCHAINED,” “THE BLIND SIDE”) as James Orange, Alessandro Nivola (“A MOST VIOLENT YEAR,” “AMERICAN HUSTLE”) as John Doar, Dylan Baker (“The Good Wife,” “Damages”) as J. Edgar Hoover, Giovanni Ribisi (“My Name is Earl,” “AVATAR”) as Lee White, Tessa Thompson (“Heroes,” “Veronica Mars”) as Diane Nash, Colman Domingo (“LEE DANIELS’ THE BUTLER,” “42”) as Ralph Abernathy, Stephen Root (“Justified,” “Boardwalk Empire”) as Al Lingo, Jeremy Strong (“The Good Wife,” “ZERO DARK THIRTY”) as James Reeb, with Tim Roth (“Lie to Me,” “THE INCREDIBLE HULK”) as George Wallace, and Oprah Winfrey (“LEE DANIELS’ THE BUTLER,” “THE COLOR PURPLE”) as Annie Lee Cooper.
Paramount is handling the film’s domestic distribution, Pathé is distributing in the UK and France and Pathé International will handle sales to the rest of the world.
About Paramount Pictures Corporation
Paramount Pictures Corporation (PPC), a global producer and distributor of filmed entertainment, is a unit of Viacom (NASDAQ: VIAB, VIA), a leading content company with prominent and respected film, television and digital entertainment brands. Paramount controls a collection of some of the most powerful brands in filmed entertainment, including Paramount Pictures, Paramount Animation, ParamountVantage, Paramount Classics, Insurge Pictures, MTV Films, and Nickelodeon Movies. PPC operations also include Paramount Home Media Distribution, Paramount Pictures International, Paramount Licensing Inc., and Paramount Studio Group.
About Pathé
Pathé is one of the leading European film production and distribution companies with offices in both Paris and London. It is involved in all aspects of filmmaking, from development and production through to international sales and distribution. Films produced/distributed by Pathé range from THE QUEEN to SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE and from THE IRON LADY to PHILOMENA. Pathé’s upcoming releases include Matthew Warchus’ PRIDE starring Bill Nighy and Imelda Staunton; and Sarah Gavron’s SUFFRAGETTE starring Carey Mulligan, Helena Bonham-Carter, Brendan Gleeson and Meryl Streep.
Friday, June 20, 2014
Negromancer News Bits and Bites: June 15 to June 21, 2014 - Updated #6
NEWS:
From The Wrap: Meryl Streep makes a move to television as she will play opera legend Maria Callas in a television film for HBO. Director Mike Nichols is adapting the Broadway play, "Master Class," which tells the story of Callas' life.
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From Variety: The next "Bourne" movie, starring Jeremy Renner, has been moved from August 14, 2015 to July 15, 2016, That film will ostensibly be a sequel to the Renner-starring The Bourne Legacy.
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From Variety: Apparently the F. Gary Gray N.W.A. biopic will take Bourne's August 2015 release date.
From Cinema Blend: Speaking of the N.W.A. biopic, the film reportedly has its actors to play the lead characters, Ice Cube, Eazy-E, and Dr. Dre. O'Shea Jackson, Jr. will apparently play his father, Ice Cube, whose birth name is O'Shea Jackson. At one point, Michael B. Jordan was eyed to play Cube, but his role in the Fantastic Four reboot may have squashed that.
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From Yahoo: John Cusack and Adrien Brody join Jackie Chan in the Chinese-language film, "Dragon Blade." It looks to be the most expensive Chinese-language made to date at $65 million.
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COMIC BOOK MOVIES:
From Marvel: Rosario Dawson joins Marvel's Netflix series, "Daredevil," which is scheduled to debut in early 2015.
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From The Wrap: Jon Spaihts who wrote Ridley Scott's Prometheus is apparently writing Marvel Studios' planned "Doctor Strange," movie, which would be based on the surgeon turned Sorcerer Supreme, Stephen Strange a/k/a/ Doctor Strange. Scott Derrickson, who directed the low-budget hit horror film, Sinister, is apparently directing the film. Jared Leto and Benedict Cumberbatch are the top choices to play Strange.
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From Yahoo Celebrity: Ben Affleck buffs up for Batman role in Batman Vs. Superman: Dawn of Justice.
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STAR WARS News:
From Yahoo: Harrison Ford broke his leg, not his ankle.
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From Heat Celeb News: More on Harrison Ford's injury on the set of Star Wars Episode VII.
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From GoSanAngelo: Here is an interesting article about fans who spend much money and time to build their own Star Wars droids. There is even a club, Astromech.net.
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MISC:
Surprising article from a few years ago: I was a drunk teenaged wizard.
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From Yahoo: In this installment of Hollywood Time Capsule, the 1999 flick, Wild Wild West, gets a look-back via Entertainment Weekly.
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OBITS:
From the New York Times and Indiewire: Casey Kasem, the famous American disc jockey, radio personality, and voice actor, died Sunday, June 15, 2014. He was 82-years-old. Kasem was born Kemal Amen Kasem in Detroit on April 27, 1932 to Lebanese immigrant parents.
I remember Kasem for several reasons. First of all, I was a big fan of his syndicated radio show, "America's Top 40." Beginning in 1970 and continuing for 24 years, Kasem played the top forty songs on Billboard magazine's weekly "Hot 100" singles chart. There was also a syndicated television version of the show in the 1980s that showed the music videos for the top ten songs of the week on the "Hot 100" singles chart, and sometimes for songs on Billboard's other singles chart.
But I most treasure and love Casey Kasem as the voice of cartoon character, Norville "Shaggy" Rodgers, beginning with the animated series, "Scooby-Doo, Where Are You?" (1969) and continuing until 1997. He also provided the voice of Robin on "Super Friends" and Alexander on "Josie and the Pussycats."
Negromancer sends condolences to Casey Kasem's family and friends. R.I.P. Shaggy.
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From Yahoo Sports: Former Major League Baseball player, Tony Gwynn, died today, Monday, June 16, 2014 at the age of 54. He was one of the greatest hitters in the history of Major League Baseball and the greatest pure hitter of his generation. He played with the San Diego Padres for 20 years (his entire career) and was elected into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2007. He was named on 532 of 545 Hall of Fame voting ballots, for one of the highest percentages ever, 97.61. Negromancer sends its condolences to Tony Gwynn's family, friends, colleagues, and teammates. R.I.P. slugger.
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From the New York Times and Yahoo Sports: I think I've stated before that the Pittsburgh Steelers are my favorite NFL team. Well, I was saddened to learn that beloved head Coach Chuck Noll died Friday night, June 13, 2013. Charles Henry Noll was born on January 5, 1932. He was 82-year-old.
Noll built the "Steel Curtain" Steelers of the 1970s, one of the most dominant teams in NFL history. The Steelers won the Super Bowls in the 1974, 1975, 1978, and 1979 seasons. They were the first team to win four Super Bowls. Noll coached the Steelers from 1969 to 1991 and was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1993, his first year of eligibility.
Rest in peace, Coach. Negromancer offers condolences to Chuck Noll's family and friends.
Amazon Prime Instant Video Signs Deal with Aardman Animations
Prime Instant Video Becomes the Exclusive Subscription Streaming Home for Wallace & Gromit, Shaun the Sheep and Other Top Series from Aardman Animations
Licensing deal gives Prime members exclusive access to stop-motion animation favorites for instant streaming at no extra charge to their Prime membership
New seasons of Shaun the Sheep, the Shaun the Sheep: Championsheeps special and two new Timmy Time specials join the Prime Instant Video collection
SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--(NASDAQ:AMZN)—Amazon.com, Inc. today announced a U.S. content licensing agreement with Aardman Animations that will make Prime Instant Video the exclusive subscription streaming home for the beloved, award-winning television and short film series Wallace & Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, Timmy Time and classic animation Rex the Runt. Fans of the charming characters and their adventures now have access to this collection of Aardman content on hundreds of connected devices using their Prime membership. Those who are not already members of Amazon Prime can sign up at www.amazon.com/primeinstantvideo.
“Wallace & Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, Timmy Time and Rex the Runt continue to gain new fans, and we’re thrilled to offer them to viewers exclusively on Prime Instant Video”
In addition, new shows from the Shaun the Sheep and Timmy Time series will be added to Prime Instant Video, including seasons 3 and 4 of Shaun the Sheep, the Shaun the Sheep: Championsheeps special and two new Timmy Time specials.
Created in Aardman’s distinctive stop-motion animation style, the lead characters in Wallace & Gromit won global recognition as icons of modern British culture. The series earned both widespread fan appreciation and critical acclaim, earning two Academy Awards for its short films. Wallace & Gromit inspired several spinoff series, including Shaun the Sheep and Timmy Time, aimed at younger viewers. A full-length feature film based on Shaun the Sheep is scheduled to be theatrically released in the spring of 2015.
“Our customers love great kids shows and we are proud to be the exclusive subscription streaming home for these popular Aardman shows,” said Brad Beale, Director of Digital Video Content Acquisition for Amazon. “Wallace & Gromit, Shaun the Sheep and the other Aardman shows have a wide-reaching fan base, and we know Prime members will enjoy watching these shows at no extra charge as part of their Prime membership.”
“Wallace & Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, Timmy Time and Rex the Runt continue to gain new fans, and we’re thrilled to offer them to viewers exclusively on Prime Instant Video,” said Robin Gladman, Digital Content & Partner Manager at Aardman Animations. “As we get ready to release our Shaun the Sheep feature film next year, we know that Prime members will be eager to catch up on all the past adventures of their favorite animated characters.”
Prime Instant Video Exclusives
Prime Instant Video is the exclusive online-only subscription home for a large and constantly-expanding selection of hit series, making it the go-to destination for Prime members who want to stay up to date on their favorite shows. Popular choices include HBO classics The Sopranos, The Wire, Deadwood, Rome and Six Feet Under, recent HBO favorites Eastbound & Down, Enlightened and Flight of the Conchords, and select seasons of current HBO series True Blood, Boardwalk Empire and Treme. Other hit TV show exclusives include PBS series Downton Abbey and Mr. Selfridge, FX dramas The Americans and Justified, as well as 24, Orphan Black, Falling Skies, Hannibal, Grimm, Workaholics, Suits, Covert Affairs, Teen Wolf, Veronica Mars, CBS summer blockbuster series Under the Dome and later this summer, Extant. Prime Instant Video also offers an exclusive collection of kids shows from Nickelodeon and Nick Jr. that customers won’t find on any other online-only subscription service, including favorites like SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer, Team Umizoomi, Blue’s Clues, and The Bubble Guppies. Airing now, Amazon’s first original series Alpha House and Betas and first original kids series Tumble Leaf can be found exclusively on Prime Instant Video as well.
Customers can enjoy Prime Instant Videos on hundreds of compatible Amazon Instant Video devices, including Fire TV, Kindle Fire HDX, Kindle Fire HD, iPad, iPhone, iPod touch, Roku, Xbox, PlayStation and the Wii. Prime Instant Video is the only U.S. online subscription streaming service that enables offline viewing—on a plane, on vacation, and anywhere else where you may not have Wi-Fi. Customers can download tens of thousands of Prime Instant Video titles to their new Kindle Fire HD or Kindle Fire HDX.
About Amazon Instant Video
Amazon Instant Video is a digital video streaming and download service that offers Amazon customers the ability to rent, purchase or subscribe to a huge catalog of videos. Customers can choose from more than 200,000 titles to purchase or rent—movies range from new releases to classic favorites, and Amazon Instant Video offers major television shows, entire seasons, or even day after air TV. Prime Instant Video is Amazon’s video subscription offer—it includes tens of thousands of movies and TV episodes selected from the full assortment available at Amazon Instant Video.
About Amazon.com
Amazon opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995. The company is guided by three principles: customer obsession rather than competitor focus, passion for invention, and long-term thinking. Customer reviews, 1-Click shopping, personalized recommendations, Prime, Fulfillment by Amazon, AWS, Kindle Direct Publishing, Kindle, Fire, and Fire TV are some of the products and services pioneered by Amazon
Licensing deal gives Prime members exclusive access to stop-motion animation favorites for instant streaming at no extra charge to their Prime membership
New seasons of Shaun the Sheep, the Shaun the Sheep: Championsheeps special and two new Timmy Time specials join the Prime Instant Video collection
SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--(NASDAQ:AMZN)—Amazon.com, Inc. today announced a U.S. content licensing agreement with Aardman Animations that will make Prime Instant Video the exclusive subscription streaming home for the beloved, award-winning television and short film series Wallace & Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, Timmy Time and classic animation Rex the Runt. Fans of the charming characters and their adventures now have access to this collection of Aardman content on hundreds of connected devices using their Prime membership. Those who are not already members of Amazon Prime can sign up at www.amazon.com/primeinstantvideo.
“Wallace & Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, Timmy Time and Rex the Runt continue to gain new fans, and we’re thrilled to offer them to viewers exclusively on Prime Instant Video”
In addition, new shows from the Shaun the Sheep and Timmy Time series will be added to Prime Instant Video, including seasons 3 and 4 of Shaun the Sheep, the Shaun the Sheep: Championsheeps special and two new Timmy Time specials.
Created in Aardman’s distinctive stop-motion animation style, the lead characters in Wallace & Gromit won global recognition as icons of modern British culture. The series earned both widespread fan appreciation and critical acclaim, earning two Academy Awards for its short films. Wallace & Gromit inspired several spinoff series, including Shaun the Sheep and Timmy Time, aimed at younger viewers. A full-length feature film based on Shaun the Sheep is scheduled to be theatrically released in the spring of 2015.
“Our customers love great kids shows and we are proud to be the exclusive subscription streaming home for these popular Aardman shows,” said Brad Beale, Director of Digital Video Content Acquisition for Amazon. “Wallace & Gromit, Shaun the Sheep and the other Aardman shows have a wide-reaching fan base, and we know Prime members will enjoy watching these shows at no extra charge as part of their Prime membership.”
“Wallace & Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, Timmy Time and Rex the Runt continue to gain new fans, and we’re thrilled to offer them to viewers exclusively on Prime Instant Video,” said Robin Gladman, Digital Content & Partner Manager at Aardman Animations. “As we get ready to release our Shaun the Sheep feature film next year, we know that Prime members will be eager to catch up on all the past adventures of their favorite animated characters.”
Prime Instant Video Exclusives
Prime Instant Video is the exclusive online-only subscription home for a large and constantly-expanding selection of hit series, making it the go-to destination for Prime members who want to stay up to date on their favorite shows. Popular choices include HBO classics The Sopranos, The Wire, Deadwood, Rome and Six Feet Under, recent HBO favorites Eastbound & Down, Enlightened and Flight of the Conchords, and select seasons of current HBO series True Blood, Boardwalk Empire and Treme. Other hit TV show exclusives include PBS series Downton Abbey and Mr. Selfridge, FX dramas The Americans and Justified, as well as 24, Orphan Black, Falling Skies, Hannibal, Grimm, Workaholics, Suits, Covert Affairs, Teen Wolf, Veronica Mars, CBS summer blockbuster series Under the Dome and later this summer, Extant. Prime Instant Video also offers an exclusive collection of kids shows from Nickelodeon and Nick Jr. that customers won’t find on any other online-only subscription service, including favorites like SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer, Team Umizoomi, Blue’s Clues, and The Bubble Guppies. Airing now, Amazon’s first original series Alpha House and Betas and first original kids series Tumble Leaf can be found exclusively on Prime Instant Video as well.
Customers can enjoy Prime Instant Videos on hundreds of compatible Amazon Instant Video devices, including Fire TV, Kindle Fire HDX, Kindle Fire HD, iPad, iPhone, iPod touch, Roku, Xbox, PlayStation and the Wii. Prime Instant Video is the only U.S. online subscription streaming service that enables offline viewing—on a plane, on vacation, and anywhere else where you may not have Wi-Fi. Customers can download tens of thousands of Prime Instant Video titles to their new Kindle Fire HD or Kindle Fire HDX.
About Amazon Instant Video
Amazon Instant Video is a digital video streaming and download service that offers Amazon customers the ability to rent, purchase or subscribe to a huge catalog of videos. Customers can choose from more than 200,000 titles to purchase or rent—movies range from new releases to classic favorites, and Amazon Instant Video offers major television shows, entire seasons, or even day after air TV. Prime Instant Video is Amazon’s video subscription offer—it includes tens of thousands of movies and TV episodes selected from the full assortment available at Amazon Instant Video.
About Amazon.com
Amazon opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995. The company is guided by three principles: customer obsession rather than competitor focus, passion for invention, and long-term thinking. Customer reviews, 1-Click shopping, personalized recommendations, Prime, Fulfillment by Amazon, AWS, Kindle Direct Publishing, Kindle, Fire, and Fire TV are some of the products and services pioneered by Amazon
Disney Announces "Star Wars Scene Maker" App
Disney Publishing Worldwide Takes Storytelling to New Heights with Star Wars™ Scene Maker
Fans for the First Time Can Create and Share Their Own Star Wars Scenes; "Star Wars Scene Maker" Available Now on the App Store
GLENDALE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Disney Publishing Worldwide today re-defines the storytelling experience with the release of "Star Wars Scene Maker," a new line of creativity apps that gives kids and Star Wars fans of all ages the tools to create, control, customize, capture and share their own 3D animated Star Wars scenes. Utilizing simple, intuitive commands, the apps give fans an unrivaled user-generated storytelling experience that allows them to re-imagine and re-create iconic scenes from the Saga.
“At Disney Publishing, we are committed to reaching today’s consumers in deeper, more engaging ways through innovative and immersive storytelling experiences”
Featuring 3D models of characters, vehicles, and environments, “Scene Maker” allows fans to zoom in, pull back and explore each animated Star Wars scene. Users have the freedom to place characters and vehicles wherever they choose, and then customize them with a variety of weapons to create new storylines and dialogue.
Three movable cameras can be maneuvered and switched to different film modes, with options to rotate and adjust vertical heights to give scene makers complete creative control of how they film their scenes. Additionally, iconic music and dialogue deepen the scene making experience, while options to record original dialogue expand the level of customization. A save and share option provides opportunities for fans to socialize their content online.
“At Disney Publishing, we are committed to reaching today’s consumers in deeper, more engaging ways through innovative and immersive storytelling experiences,” said Andrew Sugerman, executive vice president, Disney Publishing Worldwide. “Star Wars Scene Maker allows us to put kids and fans of all ages in the director’s seat and provide them with ways to unleash their creativity and share their passion for the Star Wars brand in a new way.”
The first app in the “Scene Maker” series launches with iconic scenes from the original trilogy: “The Battle of Endor,” from Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi, “Cloud City Duel” from Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back, and “Death Star Trench Run” from Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope. “The Battle of Endor” is free with download, and each additional content pack is $2.99, or $3.99 for both.
The “Scene Maker” apps will continue to feature content from the Star Wars Saga, with plans to expand to new content from the upcoming “Star Wars Rebels” animated series on Disney XD. Additional content packs will be released through app updates, and available through in-app purchase.
"Star Wars Scene Maker" is available now for free for iOS on the App Store. For additional Star Wars mobile apps updates and information, visit www.StarWars.com, www.DisneyStories.com, Facebook at Facebook.com/disneyreads and Twitter at @DisneyReads.
About Disney Publishing Worldwide
Disney Publishing Worldwide (DPW) is the world's largest publisher of children's books, magazines, and Apps, with over 700 million products sold each year. DPW consists of an extensive worldwide books and magazines licensing structure as well as vertically integrated publishing imprints, including Disney-Hyperion and Disney Press in the U.S. and Disney Libri in Italy. DPW's digital products include bestselling eBook titles and award-winning original apps. Disney English is DPW's English language learning business, which includes learning centers in China and a worldwide retail-licensing program. Headquartered in Glendale, California, DPW publishes books, magazines, and digital products in 85 countries in 75 languages. For more information visit www.disneypublishing.com.
About Lucasfilm Ltd.
Lucasfilm Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is a global leader in film, television and digital entertainment production. In addition to its motion-picture and television production, the company's activities include visual effects and audio post-production, cutting-edge digital animation, interactive entertainment software, and the management of the global merchandising activities for its entertainment properties including the legendary STAR WARS and INDIANA JONES franchises. Lucasfilm Ltd. is headquartered in northern California.
STAR WARS and related properties are trademarks in the United States and/or in other countries of Lucasfilm Ltd. and/or its affiliates. © & TM 2014 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved.
Fans for the First Time Can Create and Share Their Own Star Wars Scenes; "Star Wars Scene Maker" Available Now on the App Store
GLENDALE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Disney Publishing Worldwide today re-defines the storytelling experience with the release of "Star Wars Scene Maker," a new line of creativity apps that gives kids and Star Wars fans of all ages the tools to create, control, customize, capture and share their own 3D animated Star Wars scenes. Utilizing simple, intuitive commands, the apps give fans an unrivaled user-generated storytelling experience that allows them to re-imagine and re-create iconic scenes from the Saga.
“At Disney Publishing, we are committed to reaching today’s consumers in deeper, more engaging ways through innovative and immersive storytelling experiences”
Featuring 3D models of characters, vehicles, and environments, “Scene Maker” allows fans to zoom in, pull back and explore each animated Star Wars scene. Users have the freedom to place characters and vehicles wherever they choose, and then customize them with a variety of weapons to create new storylines and dialogue.
Three movable cameras can be maneuvered and switched to different film modes, with options to rotate and adjust vertical heights to give scene makers complete creative control of how they film their scenes. Additionally, iconic music and dialogue deepen the scene making experience, while options to record original dialogue expand the level of customization. A save and share option provides opportunities for fans to socialize their content online.
“At Disney Publishing, we are committed to reaching today’s consumers in deeper, more engaging ways through innovative and immersive storytelling experiences,” said Andrew Sugerman, executive vice president, Disney Publishing Worldwide. “Star Wars Scene Maker allows us to put kids and fans of all ages in the director’s seat and provide them with ways to unleash their creativity and share their passion for the Star Wars brand in a new way.”
The first app in the “Scene Maker” series launches with iconic scenes from the original trilogy: “The Battle of Endor,” from Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi, “Cloud City Duel” from Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back, and “Death Star Trench Run” from Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope. “The Battle of Endor” is free with download, and each additional content pack is $2.99, or $3.99 for both.
The “Scene Maker” apps will continue to feature content from the Star Wars Saga, with plans to expand to new content from the upcoming “Star Wars Rebels” animated series on Disney XD. Additional content packs will be released through app updates, and available through in-app purchase.
"Star Wars Scene Maker" is available now for free for iOS on the App Store. For additional Star Wars mobile apps updates and information, visit www.StarWars.com, www.DisneyStories.com, Facebook at Facebook.com/disneyreads and Twitter at @DisneyReads.
About Disney Publishing Worldwide
Disney Publishing Worldwide (DPW) is the world's largest publisher of children's books, magazines, and Apps, with over 700 million products sold each year. DPW consists of an extensive worldwide books and magazines licensing structure as well as vertically integrated publishing imprints, including Disney-Hyperion and Disney Press in the U.S. and Disney Libri in Italy. DPW's digital products include bestselling eBook titles and award-winning original apps. Disney English is DPW's English language learning business, which includes learning centers in China and a worldwide retail-licensing program. Headquartered in Glendale, California, DPW publishes books, magazines, and digital products in 85 countries in 75 languages. For more information visit www.disneypublishing.com.
About Lucasfilm Ltd.
Lucasfilm Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is a global leader in film, television and digital entertainment production. In addition to its motion-picture and television production, the company's activities include visual effects and audio post-production, cutting-edge digital animation, interactive entertainment software, and the management of the global merchandising activities for its entertainment properties including the legendary STAR WARS and INDIANA JONES franchises. Lucasfilm Ltd. is headquartered in northern California.
STAR WARS and related properties are trademarks in the United States and/or in other countries of Lucasfilm Ltd. and/or its affiliates. © & TM 2014 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved.
Wednesday, June 18, 2014
Paramount Pictures Lines Up Licensees for Summer 2015's "Monster Trucks"
Paramount Animation Revs up “MONSTER TRUCKS” with Spin Master Toy Deal
Summer 2015 New Movie Franchise Gaining Traction with Licensees at Expo in Las Vegas
HOLLYWOOD--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Paramount Licensing is headed down the road of a major consumer products launch for next summer’s “MONSTER TRUCKS” movie, based on Paramount’s original idea, with today’s announcement of a master toy license deal with toy innovators Spin Master.
“The partnership to develop toys around Monster Trucks is a match made in toy heaven!”
This marks the first licensee partnership publicly announced in support of the high-octane family film “MONSTER TRUCKS,” from Paramount Animation, set for release on May 29, 2015. The live action film, utilizing state of the art CGI animation, is based on an original concept. Produced by Mary Parent, directed by Chris Wedge, with a screenplay by Matthew Robinson and Glenn Berger & Jonathan Aibel and Derek Connolly, the movie stars Lucas Till, Jane Levy, Barry Pepper, Amy Ryan, Rob Lowe, Danny Glover, Holt McCallany and Thomas Lennon, and is currently in production in Vancouver, B.C.
To roll the movie into the toy aisle of retailers, Paramount has partnered with leading toy manufacturer, Spin Master Ltd., to serve as the global master toy licensee for the franchise. Spin Master, having recently won multiple Toy of the Year Awards from the Toy Industry Association, will develop an extensive line up of vehicle-based products that will launch alongside the film.
“Spin Master is known for their innovation,” said LeeAnne Stables, President of Consumer Products and head of Paramount’s Marketing Partnerships. “They are the ideal partner to bring the incredible abilities of our Monster Trucks to life with fun, must-have toys consumers have never seen before. This line will be a major presence at retail and a cornerstone of our licensing program across all major categories.”
“We are thrilled to be working with Paramount on such an exciting, adrenaline-packed movie which has great toyetic appeal,” said Craig Sims, Vice President of Global Licensing and Business Development for Spin Master. “The partnership to develop toys around Monster Trucks is a match made in toy heaven!” added Krista DiBerardino, Chief Marketing Officer for Spin Master.
Paramount will be providing current and potential partners a closer look at the new franchise at Licensing Expo. Interested parties can stop by booth #S141.
About Paramount Pictures Corporation
Paramount Pictures Corporation (PPC), a global producer and distributor of filmed entertainment, is a unit of Viacom (NASDAQ: VIAB) (NASDAQ:VIA), a leading content company with prominent and respected film, television and digital entertainment brands. Paramount controls a collection of some of the most powerful brands in filmed entertainment, including Paramount Pictures, Paramount Animation, Paramount Vantage, Paramount Classics, Insurge Pictures, MTV Films, and Nickelodeon Movies. PPC operations also include Paramount Home Media Distribution, Paramount Pictures International, Paramount Licensing Inc., and Paramount Studio Group.
About Spin Master Ltd.
A multi-category children's entertainment company, Spin Master has been designing, developing, manufacturing and marketing consumer products for children around the world since 1994 and is recognized as a global growth leader within the toy industry. Spin Master is best known for such popular brands as boy's action phenomena and 2009-2010 Boy's Toy of the Year winner Bakugan Battle Brawlers™, and award-winning brands Air Hogs®, Aquadoodle™, Spin Master Games™ including the popular Hedbanz™, Tech Deck™, Zoobles™ and SpyGear™. The company has also marked an entry into children's media with the launch of Spin Master Entertainment, a subsidiary focusing on the design, development and production of television and other media properties. Spin Master employs over 900 people with offices in Toronto, Los Angeles, London, Paris, Hong Kong, Mexico City, Munich, and Milan. For additional information please visit: www.spinmaster.com.
Summer 2015 New Movie Franchise Gaining Traction with Licensees at Expo in Las Vegas
HOLLYWOOD--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Paramount Licensing is headed down the road of a major consumer products launch for next summer’s “MONSTER TRUCKS” movie, based on Paramount’s original idea, with today’s announcement of a master toy license deal with toy innovators Spin Master.
“The partnership to develop toys around Monster Trucks is a match made in toy heaven!”
This marks the first licensee partnership publicly announced in support of the high-octane family film “MONSTER TRUCKS,” from Paramount Animation, set for release on May 29, 2015. The live action film, utilizing state of the art CGI animation, is based on an original concept. Produced by Mary Parent, directed by Chris Wedge, with a screenplay by Matthew Robinson and Glenn Berger & Jonathan Aibel and Derek Connolly, the movie stars Lucas Till, Jane Levy, Barry Pepper, Amy Ryan, Rob Lowe, Danny Glover, Holt McCallany and Thomas Lennon, and is currently in production in Vancouver, B.C.
To roll the movie into the toy aisle of retailers, Paramount has partnered with leading toy manufacturer, Spin Master Ltd., to serve as the global master toy licensee for the franchise. Spin Master, having recently won multiple Toy of the Year Awards from the Toy Industry Association, will develop an extensive line up of vehicle-based products that will launch alongside the film.
“Spin Master is known for their innovation,” said LeeAnne Stables, President of Consumer Products and head of Paramount’s Marketing Partnerships. “They are the ideal partner to bring the incredible abilities of our Monster Trucks to life with fun, must-have toys consumers have never seen before. This line will be a major presence at retail and a cornerstone of our licensing program across all major categories.”
“We are thrilled to be working with Paramount on such an exciting, adrenaline-packed movie which has great toyetic appeal,” said Craig Sims, Vice President of Global Licensing and Business Development for Spin Master. “The partnership to develop toys around Monster Trucks is a match made in toy heaven!” added Krista DiBerardino, Chief Marketing Officer for Spin Master.
Paramount will be providing current and potential partners a closer look at the new franchise at Licensing Expo. Interested parties can stop by booth #S141.
About Paramount Pictures Corporation
Paramount Pictures Corporation (PPC), a global producer and distributor of filmed entertainment, is a unit of Viacom (NASDAQ: VIAB) (NASDAQ:VIA), a leading content company with prominent and respected film, television and digital entertainment brands. Paramount controls a collection of some of the most powerful brands in filmed entertainment, including Paramount Pictures, Paramount Animation, Paramount Vantage, Paramount Classics, Insurge Pictures, MTV Films, and Nickelodeon Movies. PPC operations also include Paramount Home Media Distribution, Paramount Pictures International, Paramount Licensing Inc., and Paramount Studio Group.
About Spin Master Ltd.
A multi-category children's entertainment company, Spin Master has been designing, developing, manufacturing and marketing consumer products for children around the world since 1994 and is recognized as a global growth leader within the toy industry. Spin Master is best known for such popular brands as boy's action phenomena and 2009-2010 Boy's Toy of the Year winner Bakugan Battle Brawlers™, and award-winning brands Air Hogs®, Aquadoodle™, Spin Master Games™ including the popular Hedbanz™, Tech Deck™, Zoobles™ and SpyGear™. The company has also marked an entry into children's media with the launch of Spin Master Entertainment, a subsidiary focusing on the design, development and production of television and other media properties. Spin Master employs over 900 people with offices in Toronto, Los Angeles, London, Paris, Hong Kong, Mexico City, Munich, and Milan. For additional information please visit: www.spinmaster.com.
Tuesday, June 17, 2014
2014 Japan Film Festival of San Francisco Announces Anime Lineup
2014 JAPAN FILM FESTIVAL OF SAN FRANCISCO ANNOUNCES A THRILLING ROSTER OF NEW AND FIRST-RUN ANIME FEATURE FILMS DEBUTING IN CONJUNCTION WITH 2014 J-POP SUMMIT FESTIVAL
The 2014 Japan Film Festival of San Francisco, the first and only fully-dedicated Japanese film celebration for the S.F. Bay Area, will present an exciting slate of first-run anime feature films as part of its second annual week-long cinema extravaganza. Set to open in conjunction with the 2014 J-POP SUMMIT Festival on Saturday, July 19th and running thru Sunday, July 27th, the 2014 Japan Film Festival of San Francisco (JFFSF) complements its roster of live-action programs with the announcement of 5 additional anime features, several to be presented as first-run U.S. premieres.
The JFFSF has partnered with leading anime distributors Aniplex, Nippon Television, Sentai Filmworks, and VIZ Media to offer a must-see line-up that includes theatrical screenings of Anohana The Movie: The Flower We Saw That Day, Berserk The Golden Age Arc III: The Advent, Garden of Words, Hunter X Hunter: The Last Mission and Short Peace.
The 2014 Japan Film Festival of San Francisco will take place at the NEW PEOPLE Cinema, located inside the NEW PEOPLE J-POP entertainment complex at 1746 Post St., San Francisco, CA 94115. Tickets for anime programs are $13.00 each, unless otherwise noted. Film summaries, trailers, screening times and advance tickets are available at: www.JFFSF.org.
Special JFFSF Anime Screenings During 2014 J-POP SUMMIT Festival:
SHORT PEACE
Sunday, July 20th, 2:45pm
The inspiring anime omnibus SHORT PEACE finds a lone traveler confronted by unusual sprits inside an abandoned shrine in the film, POSSESSIONS, while a mysterious white bear defends the village from a red demon in the brutal short, GAMBO. Men battle deadly robotic tanks in a post-apocalyptic Tokyo in A FAREWELL TO ARMS, and a spectacular tale of love, honor and firefighting in ancient Japan unfolds in COMBUSTIBLE.
Additional Japan Film Festival of San Francisco Anime Screenings:
ANOHANA THE MOVIE: THE FLOWER WE SAW THAT DAY
Monday, July 21st, 8:15pm
Don't miss the last chance to see Anohana the Movie on the big screen! The film is a tale of five childhood friends that have drifted apart from one another following the tragic death of their mutual friend Meiko "Menma" Honma. When "Menma" appears as a ghost and says that she cannot pass onto afterlife unless she is granted one last wish, time that has stood still begins to slowly move again.
BERSERK THE GOLDEN AGE ARC III: THE ADVENT – U.S. PREMIERE!!!
Wednesday, July 23th, 7:00pm & Sunday, July 27nd, 7:00pm
The horrifying conclusion to the Golden Age anime trilogy unfolds in a magnificently violent nightmare, signifying the birth of new era where darkness outshines the light. It’s been a year since Griffith’s imprisonment by the Kingdom of Midland. Once praised as the saviors of the Midland, The Band of the Hawk has been on the run and is on the brink of breaking apart. Much to everyone’s surprise, Guts returns to the Hawks and the search for Griffith begins!
GARDEN OF WORDS – S.F. PREMIERE!!!
Monday, July 21st, 7:00pm & Wednesday, July 23th, 9:15pm
Directed by Makoto Shinkai, this poignant film captures glowing moments from rainy season in Tokyo, unfolding a gentle tale of youth, love and unspoken words. When Takao, a 15-year old high school student who dreams of becoming a show designer, decides to skip school one day in favor of sketching in a rainy garden, he has no idea how much his life will change when he encounters a mysterious older woman named Yukino.
HUNTER X HUNTER: THE LAST MISSION – U.S. PREMIERE!!!
Saturday, July 26th, 12:00pm
Based on the bestselling manga series by Yoshihiro Togashi (creator of YuYu Hakusho), Gon and his friends visit the Battle Olympia tournament at Heavens Arena, where there's an unexpected raid by an armed group called the Shadow Squad. The group's leader, Jed, wants payback for the murder of his men by Netero."Death to all Hunters!" declares Jed as he captures Netero. In order to rescue his friend, Gon must defeat Jed and his powerful mind force to unveil the Hunter Association's dark secret!
NEW PEOPLE Cinema is a 143-seat cinema located in the underground floor of NEW PEOPLE in San Francisco. Equipped with a cutting-edge HD digital projection and THX®-certified sound system, NEW PEOPLE Cinema is home for local film festivals and entertaining events. www.newpeoplecinema.com
About JAPAN FILM FESTIVAL OF SAN FRANCISCO
Launched in 2013, Japan Film Festival of San Francisco is the first and only fully-dedicated Japanese film event for the SF Bay Area, will feature a colorful mix of narratives, anime and documentary film premieres and exclusive screenings with special guest appearance at the NEW PEOPLE Cinema in SF Japantown from July 19 (Sat) through 27 (Sun), 2014. See more details and ticket information at www.jffsf.org
About J-POP SUMMIT Festival
Launched in 2009, J-POP SUMMIT Festival is an annual street fair held in San Francisco, CA that celebrates Japanese popular culture. By introducing the latest in Japanese music, film, art, fashion, gaming, anime, food, as well as niche subcultures, the festival has become a prominent platform to showcase the latest pop trends and creative innovations from Japan.
The 5th annual J-POP SUMMIT held in July 2013 welcomed more than 80,000 attendees, making it one of the largest Japanese festivals in the United States. In addition to the original Festival held in Japantown, new attractions include the J-POP LIVE AT UNION SQUARE concert in downtown San Francisco, the Bay Area’s premier dedicated Japan Film Festival of San Francisco, and sake-tasting and fine foods events at the POP GOURMET Food Festival, which have each further enriched the experience. Additional information about J-POP SUMMIT Festival is available at: J-POP.com.
"Transformers: Age of Extinction" Premieres in Hong Kong
Michael Bay’s “Transformers: Age of Extinction” Strides into Hong Kong for the City’s Historic First World Premiere of a Hollywood Blockbuster on June 19, 2014
HOLLYWOOD--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Paramount Pictures’ world premiere of Michael Bay's highly-anticipated film, “TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION,” will have its world premiere in Hong Kong at the Cultural Centre on Thursday, June 19th. The event will mark the biggest and first-ever global premiere of a Hollywood blockbuster staged in Hong Kong.
“We are very excited to be hosting the film’s world premiere in Hong Kong where we were welcomed with great enthusiasm during production”
Bay and his star-studded cast, including Mark Wahlberg, Stanley Tucci, Kelsey Grammer, Nicola Peltz, Jack Reynor, Li Bingbing, Han Geng and the band IMAGINE DRAGONS, will be in town to walk the red carpet. Fans from around the world can soon vie for places at this glamorous event bordering the magnificent Victoria Harbour. The red carpet event for “TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION” will begin at 4:30 p.m. (HKST) for spectators to cheer on the filmmakers, cast and crew to help celebrate the film’s first ever showing anywhere in the world. This latest installment in the TRANSFORMERS franchise has set yet another bar for cinematic innovation.
The premiere in Hong Kong is exciting not only for the local community, but also for fans and members of the press from all the over the world who are expected to flock to the city to witness and cover the activities. The premiere will also feature a 21-foot tall Optimus Prime robot that has never been displayed anywhere, which fans are not to miss!
“We are very excited to be hosting the film’s world premiere in Hong Kong where we were welcomed with great enthusiasm during production,” said director Michael Bay. “It's the perfect location to unveil the film ahead of its worldwide opening later this month. I hope the people of Hong Kong and China enjoy how we've showcased much of the region's unique and iconic scenery in the movie.”
Celebrating this movie milestone, the Grammy Award-winning band IMAGINE DRAGONS, who wrote the original song “BATTLE CRY” for “TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION,” will perform live on the rooftop of Harbour City following the film’s screening, with the world-renowned Victoria Harbour as the backdrop, on June 19th at 9:45 p.m. (HKST).
The red carpet session and the IMAGINE DRAGONS live performance will also be streamed on Yahoo (http://yhoo.it/1qTRu1G) in 24 markets, allowing fans across the globe to share in these first-ever moments held in Hong Kong.
“TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION” is the fourth film in director Michael Bay’s global blockbuster franchise. Produced By Don Murphy & Tom DeSanto, Lorenzo Di Bonaventura and Ian Bryce. Based on Hasbro’s Transformers™ Action Figures. Written By Ehren Kruger. Directed By Michael Bay.
“TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION” is produced by Paramount Pictures, with production assistance in mainland China by 1905 (Beijing) Network Technology Co., Ltd., China Movie Channel and Jiaflix Enterprises.
The film will release on Thursday, June 26th, 2014 in Hong Kong and on Friday, June 27th, 2014 in the U.S.
About Paramount Pictures Corporation
Paramount Pictures Corporation (PPC), a global producer and distributor of filmed entertainment, is a unit of Viacom (NASDAQ: VIAB, VIA), a leading content company with prominent and respected film, television and digital entertainment brands. Paramount controls a collection of some of the most powerful brands in filmed entertainment, including Paramount Pictures, Paramount Animation, Paramount Vantage, Paramount Classics, Insurge Pictures, MTV Films, and Nickelodeon Movies. PPC operations also include Paramount Home Media Distribution, Paramount Pictures International, Paramount Licensing Inc., and Paramount Studio Group.
HOLLYWOOD--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Paramount Pictures’ world premiere of Michael Bay's highly-anticipated film, “TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION,” will have its world premiere in Hong Kong at the Cultural Centre on Thursday, June 19th. The event will mark the biggest and first-ever global premiere of a Hollywood blockbuster staged in Hong Kong.
“We are very excited to be hosting the film’s world premiere in Hong Kong where we were welcomed with great enthusiasm during production”
Bay and his star-studded cast, including Mark Wahlberg, Stanley Tucci, Kelsey Grammer, Nicola Peltz, Jack Reynor, Li Bingbing, Han Geng and the band IMAGINE DRAGONS, will be in town to walk the red carpet. Fans from around the world can soon vie for places at this glamorous event bordering the magnificent Victoria Harbour. The red carpet event for “TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION” will begin at 4:30 p.m. (HKST) for spectators to cheer on the filmmakers, cast and crew to help celebrate the film’s first ever showing anywhere in the world. This latest installment in the TRANSFORMERS franchise has set yet another bar for cinematic innovation.
The premiere in Hong Kong is exciting not only for the local community, but also for fans and members of the press from all the over the world who are expected to flock to the city to witness and cover the activities. The premiere will also feature a 21-foot tall Optimus Prime robot that has never been displayed anywhere, which fans are not to miss!
“We are very excited to be hosting the film’s world premiere in Hong Kong where we were welcomed with great enthusiasm during production,” said director Michael Bay. “It's the perfect location to unveil the film ahead of its worldwide opening later this month. I hope the people of Hong Kong and China enjoy how we've showcased much of the region's unique and iconic scenery in the movie.”
Celebrating this movie milestone, the Grammy Award-winning band IMAGINE DRAGONS, who wrote the original song “BATTLE CRY” for “TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION,” will perform live on the rooftop of Harbour City following the film’s screening, with the world-renowned Victoria Harbour as the backdrop, on June 19th at 9:45 p.m. (HKST).
The red carpet session and the IMAGINE DRAGONS live performance will also be streamed on Yahoo (http://yhoo.it/1qTRu1G) in 24 markets, allowing fans across the globe to share in these first-ever moments held in Hong Kong.
“TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION” is the fourth film in director Michael Bay’s global blockbuster franchise. Produced By Don Murphy & Tom DeSanto, Lorenzo Di Bonaventura and Ian Bryce. Based on Hasbro’s Transformers™ Action Figures. Written By Ehren Kruger. Directed By Michael Bay.
“TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION” is produced by Paramount Pictures, with production assistance in mainland China by 1905 (Beijing) Network Technology Co., Ltd., China Movie Channel and Jiaflix Enterprises.
The film will release on Thursday, June 26th, 2014 in Hong Kong and on Friday, June 27th, 2014 in the U.S.
About Paramount Pictures Corporation
Paramount Pictures Corporation (PPC), a global producer and distributor of filmed entertainment, is a unit of Viacom (NASDAQ: VIAB, VIA), a leading content company with prominent and respected film, television and digital entertainment brands. Paramount controls a collection of some of the most powerful brands in filmed entertainment, including Paramount Pictures, Paramount Animation, Paramount Vantage, Paramount Classics, Insurge Pictures, MTV Films, and Nickelodeon Movies. PPC operations also include Paramount Home Media Distribution, Paramount Pictures International, Paramount Licensing Inc., and Paramount Studio Group.
Warner Bros. to Co-Fiance and Co-Produce 3D Chinese Fantasy Adventure Film
Village Roadshow Pictures Asia and Warner Bros. Pictures Board Chinese 3D Fantasy Adventure ZHONG KUI: SNOW GIRL AND THE DARK CRYSTAL, Set for February 19, 2015 Release
SHANGHAI, China--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Village Roadshow Pictures Asia and Warner Bros. Pictures have signed on as co-financiers and co-producers of Desen International Media’s Chinese 3D fantasy adventure Zhong Kui: Snow Girl and the Dark Crystal, set for release in China on February 19, 2015, which is the first day of the 2015 Chinese New Year holiday. The two companies will have a significant participation in the film’s global revenues, including those earned in Mainland China and, in addition, Village Roadshow Pictures Asia will have distribution rights in Singapore, Australia and New Zealand, and Warner Bros. Pictures will handle distribution in Taiwan, Hong Kong, Malaysia and Vietnam. Beijing Enlight Pictures has also joined the project as a co-financier and Mainland China co-distributor. Other Chinese co-financiers include actor Chen Kun’s production company K. Pictures and Shenzhen-based Wu’s Entertainment.
“Zhong Kui: Snow Girl and the Dark Crystal is an action-packed fantasy adventure, with dramatic twists and turns and a compelling love story at its core”
Directed by Zhao Tianyu (The Law of Attraction, Deadly Delicious), Zhong Kui: Snow Girl and the Dark Crystal stars Chen Kun (The Painted Skin, The Painted Skin 2, Bends), Li Bingbing (Transformers 4, Detective Dee), Winston Chao (Eat Drink Man Woman, The Wedding Banquet), Yang Zishan (So Young), Bao Bei-er (So Young) and Jike Junyi (Outcast). An Xiao Fen (Ip Man 2, Tiny Times, Tiny Times 2) and Oscar-winning cinematographer Peter Pau (Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, The Forbidden Kingdom) are producing.
Shot in scenic locations in Mainland China, Zhong Kui: Snow Girl and the Dark Crystal depicts the story of Chinese legendary anti-hero Zhong Kui, a young man endowed with mysterious powers who is forced into a battle among the realms of Heaven, Earth and Hell in the course of his attempt to save his countrymen and the woman he loves. The film promises to be a visual feast, with producer Pau also serving as cinematographer and visual effects supervisor, as well as working with 3D stereographer Vincent E Toto (Dredd). Award-winning effects studio Weta Workshop is providing character and set design, while Korean VFX house Macrograph (Journey to the West: Conquering the Demons) will produce the visual effects. In addition to being one of the first Chinese films to be filmed in 3D, Zhong Kui: Snow Girl and the Dark Crystal is also one of the first to use full performance capture. Other behind-the-scenes talent includes action choreographer Jacky Yeung, production designer Kenneth Mak, costume designer Shirley Chan and editor David Wu.
“Zhong Kui: Snow Girl and the Dark Crystal is an action-packed fantasy adventure, with dramatic twists and turns and a compelling love story at its core,” said producer An Xiaofen. “With an incredible team of international talent both on screen and behind the camera, we’re confident that Zhong Kui: Snow Girl and the Dark Crystal will become a modern classic of Chinese cinema. We’re thrilled that Village Roadshow Pictures Asia and Warner Bros. Pictures have joined with us and our partner Enlight Films to help realize our creative vision and bring this film to audiences throughout the region and beyond.”
About Desen International Media
Founded in 2006 by renowned Chinese producer An Xiao Fen, Desen International Media is a leading filmed entertainment company in China. With a focus on the creation and commercial exploitation of quality film content, Desen has produced and distributed a wide range of motion pictures including Tiny Times, Tiny Times 2, Full Circle, Lee’s Adventure, Ip Man 2 and 14 Blades.
SHANGHAI, China--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Village Roadshow Pictures Asia and Warner Bros. Pictures have signed on as co-financiers and co-producers of Desen International Media’s Chinese 3D fantasy adventure Zhong Kui: Snow Girl and the Dark Crystal, set for release in China on February 19, 2015, which is the first day of the 2015 Chinese New Year holiday. The two companies will have a significant participation in the film’s global revenues, including those earned in Mainland China and, in addition, Village Roadshow Pictures Asia will have distribution rights in Singapore, Australia and New Zealand, and Warner Bros. Pictures will handle distribution in Taiwan, Hong Kong, Malaysia and Vietnam. Beijing Enlight Pictures has also joined the project as a co-financier and Mainland China co-distributor. Other Chinese co-financiers include actor Chen Kun’s production company K. Pictures and Shenzhen-based Wu’s Entertainment.
“Zhong Kui: Snow Girl and the Dark Crystal is an action-packed fantasy adventure, with dramatic twists and turns and a compelling love story at its core”
Directed by Zhao Tianyu (The Law of Attraction, Deadly Delicious), Zhong Kui: Snow Girl and the Dark Crystal stars Chen Kun (The Painted Skin, The Painted Skin 2, Bends), Li Bingbing (Transformers 4, Detective Dee), Winston Chao (Eat Drink Man Woman, The Wedding Banquet), Yang Zishan (So Young), Bao Bei-er (So Young) and Jike Junyi (Outcast). An Xiao Fen (Ip Man 2, Tiny Times, Tiny Times 2) and Oscar-winning cinematographer Peter Pau (Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, The Forbidden Kingdom) are producing.
Shot in scenic locations in Mainland China, Zhong Kui: Snow Girl and the Dark Crystal depicts the story of Chinese legendary anti-hero Zhong Kui, a young man endowed with mysterious powers who is forced into a battle among the realms of Heaven, Earth and Hell in the course of his attempt to save his countrymen and the woman he loves. The film promises to be a visual feast, with producer Pau also serving as cinematographer and visual effects supervisor, as well as working with 3D stereographer Vincent E Toto (Dredd). Award-winning effects studio Weta Workshop is providing character and set design, while Korean VFX house Macrograph (Journey to the West: Conquering the Demons) will produce the visual effects. In addition to being one of the first Chinese films to be filmed in 3D, Zhong Kui: Snow Girl and the Dark Crystal is also one of the first to use full performance capture. Other behind-the-scenes talent includes action choreographer Jacky Yeung, production designer Kenneth Mak, costume designer Shirley Chan and editor David Wu.
“Zhong Kui: Snow Girl and the Dark Crystal is an action-packed fantasy adventure, with dramatic twists and turns and a compelling love story at its core,” said producer An Xiaofen. “With an incredible team of international talent both on screen and behind the camera, we’re confident that Zhong Kui: Snow Girl and the Dark Crystal will become a modern classic of Chinese cinema. We’re thrilled that Village Roadshow Pictures Asia and Warner Bros. Pictures have joined with us and our partner Enlight Films to help realize our creative vision and bring this film to audiences throughout the region and beyond.”
About Desen International Media
Founded in 2006 by renowned Chinese producer An Xiao Fen, Desen International Media is a leading filmed entertainment company in China. With a focus on the creation and commercial exploitation of quality film content, Desen has produced and distributed a wide range of motion pictures including Tiny Times, Tiny Times 2, Full Circle, Lee’s Adventure, Ip Man 2 and 14 Blades.
Sunday, June 15, 2014
A Negromancer Father's Day 2014
Negromancer wants to wish a Happy Father's Day to all who qualify. That would be the fathers, grandfathers, great-grandfathers (and other greats), uncles, cousins, big brothers, stepfathers, surrogate dads, coaches, and others who act as stand-in father figures. That also includes all the women out there doin' the darn thing as a male role model and/or provider. Have a great day!
Saturday, June 14, 2014
Negromancer New Bits and Bites: June 8 to June 14, 2014 Update #6
OBIT:
From the New York Times and Variety: The Academy Award-nominated actress Ruby Dee died on Wednesday, June 11, 2014. She earned her lone Oscar nomination in 2008 for her turn as the feisty mother in American Gangster. She won an Emmy Award in 1991 for her role in the "Hallmark Hall of Fame" television movie, Decoration Day.
Dee is also best known her role as "Ruth Younger" in A Raisin in the Sun, both onstage, beginning in 1959, and in the 1961 film adaptation. Dee often worked with her late husband, Ossie Davis, who died in 2005. My heart is breaking, but I know Davis and Dee are together again. Negromancer sends condolences to her family and friends.
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MOVIE NEWS:
From Hitfix: Jason Momao, of the 2011 Conan the Barbarian remake and of "Game of Thrones" will apparently be playing Aquaman in "Batman Vs. Superman: Dawn of Justice."
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From The Hollywood Reporter: The Millennium Falcon apparently broke Han Solo.
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From Shadow and Act: A talk with Supremacy director, Deon Taylor.
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From Entertainment Weekly: Vincent D'Onofrio will play the villain "Wilson Fisk" in Marvel TV's 13-episode series, "Daredevil," that it is producing for Netflix. Daredevil is one of four series that Marvel is producing for Netflix. It is also producing a spinoff of "Marvel's Agents of SHIELD," entitled, Agent Carter, which will appear on ABC.
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From Shadow and Act: Wanna be an extra in Don Cheadle's Miles Davis biopic?
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From Variety: Denzel Washington and director Antoine Fuqua are in early talks to team up for MGM's planned remake of The Magnificent Seven (which starred Steve McQueen and Yul Brenner). Washington and Fuqua first teamed on 2001's Training Day, for which Washington won a best actor Oscar. Their current team-up, The Equalizer (a remake of the 1980s TV series) is due this September.
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From Moviehole: Guillermo del Toro is working on a script for a sequel to Pacific Rim with Zak Penn.
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From BuzzFeed: Hugh Jackman has shaved his head to play Blackbeard in Pan. The photo is on Jackman's Instagram account.
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Care about the 2014 / 68th annual Tony Awards? Playbill has this article with a list of the winners, which also includes the nominees.
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"Tracy Morgan Crash" driver turned himself in and posted bail . Walmart is profoundly sorry.
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The Fault in Our Stars has the edge over Tom Cruise at the June 6-8, 2014 box office.
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Marvel officially announced that Peyton Reed (Bring It On, The Break-Up, Yes Man) will direct 2015's Ant-Man movie. Edgar Wright had been attached to the project since 2006, but recently walked away apparently due to creative differences with Marvel. Marvel's statement from its website:
When Marvel's "Ant-Man" hits theaters July 17, 2015, director Peyton Reed will help shepherd the hero into the Marvel Cinematic Universe with a cast led by Paul Rudd and Michael Douglas, with writer Adam McKay contributing to the film's script.
Armed with the astonishing ability to shrink in scale but increase in strength, con-man Scott Lang (Rudd) must embrace his inner-hero and help his mentor, Dr. Hank Pym (Douglas), protect the secret behind his spectacular Ant-Man suit from a new generation of towering threats. Against seemingly insurmountable obstacles, Pym and Lang must plan and pull off a heist that will save the world.
The Hollywood Reporter has more on the announcement, including news that Adam McKay (the Anchorman movies) will polish the script.
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How Seth Rogen makes movies from The Wrap.
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COMIC BOOKS:
From Newsarama: Frank Miller, the man who created and worked on such highly influential and/or memorable comic books as Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Daredevil, and Sin City (to name a few), would like to work on Captain America. Please, make it happen Marvel.
MISCELLANEOUS:
From HuffPost Science: Girth matters... apparently more than size/length.
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Apparently Dwayne Johnson wants you to follow the diet and fitness routine he used to become buff for the upcoming Hercules.
2015 Grammy Award Rule Changes Include Allowing Sampling in All Songwriting Categories
Samples to Be Allowed in All GRAMMY® Award Songwriting Categories, Including Song of the Year
New Rule is Among Many Updates as The Recording Academy® Approves Continuing Evolution of GRAMMY Awards® Categories and Process at Spring Trustees Meeting, with Changes Affecting Pop, Dance/Electronic, Gospel, American Roots Music, and Classical Fields
Total Number of Categories to be Recognized at 57th Annual GRAMMY Awards on Feb. 8, 2015, is 83
SANTA MONICA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As part of its recent annual spring Board of Trustees meeting, The Recording Academy®'s Trustees approved a number of changes to the GRAMMY Awards® process, including: allowing samples or interpolations of previously written songs in all songwriting categories, including Song Of The Year; establishing a new category for Best American Roots Performance in the American Roots Music Field; changing the name of the Dance/Electronica Field and album category to Dance/Electronic Music Field and Best Dance/Electronic Album; restructuring the categories of the Gospel/Contemporary Christian Music Field; renaming Best Pop Instrumental Album as Best Contemporary Instrumental Album, establishing a new Contemporary Instrumental Music Field, and moving Best Traditional Pop Album into the Pop Field; changing Best Classical Vocal Solo (album or tracks) to Best Classical Solo Vocal Album (albums only); and renaming and remaking the Best Instrumental Arrangement and Best Instrumental Arrangement Accompanying Vocals categories as Best Arrangement, Instrumental Or A Cappella and Best Arrangement, Instruments And Vocals, respectively, such that vocal arrangers/arrangements are eligible to compete. In addition, a more official guideline has been established for the Alternative Music Field.
The total number of GRAMMY® categories that will be recognized at the 57th Annual GRAMMY Awards on Feb. 8, 2015, is 83. For updates and breaking news, please visit The Recording Academy's social networks on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
“The Academy's Board of Trustees continues to demonstrate its passionate commitment to keeping The Recording Academy a relevant and responsive organization in our dynamic music community”
"The Academy's Board of Trustees continues to demonstrate its passionate commitment to keeping The Recording Academy a relevant and responsive organization in our dynamic music community," said Neil Portnow, President/CEO of The Recording Academy. "This year's changes to our Awards process are thoughtful, inclusive, and reflective of the current musical landscape, and we look forward to implementing them for the upcoming 57th Annual GRAMMY Awards."
Awards
To ensure the GRAMMY Awards process remains fluid and responsive, The Academy's Trustees have approved the following changes recommended by the Awards & Nominations (A&N) Committee:
*Samples or interpolations of previously written songs are now allowed in all songwriting categories: Song Of The Year, Best Rock Song, Best R&B Song, Best Country Song, Best Gospel Song, Best Contemporary Christian Music Song, Best American Roots Song, and Best Song Written For Visual Media. Previously, samples or interpolations were allowed in only one songwriting category: Best Rap Song, in recognition of the unique craft of writing rap songs.
*Best American Roots Performance has been added to the American Roots Music Field. An artist's award, it will encompass all of the subgenres of the Field (Americana, bluegrass, blues, folk, regional roots music), and recognizes singles/tracks only as well as solo artists/duos/groups/collaborations. This puts the Field in line with the Pop, Rock, Rap, R&B, Country, and Gospel/Contemporary Christian Music Fields, all of which have performance categories.
*The name of the Dance/Electronica Field and Best Dance/Electronica Album category now change to Dance/Electronic Field and Best Dance/Electronic Album. The committees for this Field agreed that the title for this genre has evolved, and updating it more accurately represents the industry nomenclature of today.
*The categories of the Gospel/Contemporary Christian Music Field have been restructured as follows:
Previous Category Structure
Best Gospel/Contemporary Christian Music Performance
Best Gospel Song
Best Contemporary Christian Music Song
Best Gospel Album
Best Contemporary Christian Music Album
New Category Structure
Best Gospel Performance/Song
Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song
Best Gospel Album
Best Contemporary Christian Music Album
Best Roots Gospel Album
The same number of categories remains in the Field (five), and now both the artist(s) and songwriter(s) of new material will be honored in the Best Gospel Performance/Song and Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song categories. Changes to the Field were made in the interest of clarifying the criteria, representing the current culture and creative DNA of the gospel and Contemporary Christian Music communities, and better reflecting the diversity and authenticity of today's gospel music industry, including:
*Best Pop Instrumental Album has been renamed Best Contemporary Instrumental Album, a new Contemporary Instrumental Music Field has been established, and Best Traditional Pop Album now moves into the Pop Field. This new Field and category name will allow a broader umbrella for instrumental music than the former Best Pop Instrumental Album category and creates a more appropriate home and award for excellence in instrumental performance. In reviewing recent submissions, nominations and wins in this category, most projects are better categorized as "contemporary" music than "pop" music. Categorizing this award in a separate Field puts the emphasis on instrumental music, which provides for better representation of this particular craft, and allows for a more broadly defined category that can encompass all contemporary instrumental music without deference to a particular genre.
Changing the name of the Best Pop Instrumental Album category to Best Contemporary Instrumental Album and moving it out of the Pop Field into its own Field results in only three awards in Pop. Adding the Best Traditional Pop Album category to the Pop Field (and removing the standalone Traditional Pop Field) helps to maintain parity among the mainstream Fields.
*Best Classical Vocal Solo (album or tracks) now becomes Best Classical Solo Vocal Album (albums only). The Best Classical Vocal Solo category began in 1958 as an album category. When it was changed to accept tracks, the category also became a vocal solo category, removing collaborative recognition for essential musicians performing classical music. Orchestras, conductors, pianists, and chamber groups are equal and essential partners in the performance of classical vocal music. The history of this category has shown that with only a few, rare exceptions, the nominees in this category have been predominantly albums. In cases where albums contain mixed musical forms, these albums will now be eligible in the Best Classical Compendium category.
*Best Instrumental Arrangement and Best Instrumental Arrangement Accompanying Vocals have been renamed Best Arrangement, Instrumental Or A Cappella and Best Arrangement, Instruments And Vocals, respectively, so that vocal arrangers/arrangements may now compete as well. Singles or tracks only are eligible in both categories. (Exception: If an album is one complete work [composition] it is eligible.)
*A more formal, official guideline for the Alternative Music Field has been established. The new guideline states that the Best Alternative Music Album category is intended for recordings that take as a starting point any existing musical genre or combination of genres, and expand and redefine the boundaries of those genres. Though there may be considerable overlap with the Alternative radio format, this category is not intended to mirror it.
Previously, this category was intended for recordings of a nontraditional form that exist (at least initially) outside of the mainstream music consciousness. Its avant-garde approach may utilize new technology or new production techniques and contain elements of rock, pop, dance, folk or even classical music styles.
Though the difference between the two may not appear to be particularly dramatic or significant, the new definition is more inclusive and foregoes references to any other particular genre, as well as clarifies the category's relationship to the radio format.
Click here to view the infographic regarding the GRAMMY Awards process.
The Trustees of The Recording Academy, along with Academy senior staff, Chapter Regional Directors, Executive Directors, and Chapter Presidents, met May 20 – 23 at the semiannual series of meetings with agendas designed to strategically chart the course of The Academy and its affiliate corporations.
Established in 1957, The Recording Academy is an organization of musicians, songwriters, producers, engineers and recording professionals that is dedicated to improving the cultural condition and quality of life for music and its makers. Internationally known for the GRAMMY Awards — the preeminent peer-recognized award for musical excellence and the most credible brand in music — The Recording Academy is responsible for groundbreaking professional development, cultural enrichment, advocacy, education and human services programs. The Academy continues to focus on its mission of recognizing musical excellence, advocating for the well-being of music makers and ensuring music remains an indelible part of our culture. For more information about The Academy, please visit www.grammy.com. For breaking news and exclusive content, follow @TheGRAMMYs on Twitter, like "The GRAMMYs" on Facebook, and join The GRAMMYs' social communities on Foursquare, GetGlue, Google +, Instagram, Pinterest, Tumblr, and YouTube.
New Rule is Among Many Updates as The Recording Academy® Approves Continuing Evolution of GRAMMY Awards® Categories and Process at Spring Trustees Meeting, with Changes Affecting Pop, Dance/Electronic, Gospel, American Roots Music, and Classical Fields
Total Number of Categories to be Recognized at 57th Annual GRAMMY Awards on Feb. 8, 2015, is 83
SANTA MONICA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As part of its recent annual spring Board of Trustees meeting, The Recording Academy®'s Trustees approved a number of changes to the GRAMMY Awards® process, including: allowing samples or interpolations of previously written songs in all songwriting categories, including Song Of The Year; establishing a new category for Best American Roots Performance in the American Roots Music Field; changing the name of the Dance/Electronica Field and album category to Dance/Electronic Music Field and Best Dance/Electronic Album; restructuring the categories of the Gospel/Contemporary Christian Music Field; renaming Best Pop Instrumental Album as Best Contemporary Instrumental Album, establishing a new Contemporary Instrumental Music Field, and moving Best Traditional Pop Album into the Pop Field; changing Best Classical Vocal Solo (album or tracks) to Best Classical Solo Vocal Album (albums only); and renaming and remaking the Best Instrumental Arrangement and Best Instrumental Arrangement Accompanying Vocals categories as Best Arrangement, Instrumental Or A Cappella and Best Arrangement, Instruments And Vocals, respectively, such that vocal arrangers/arrangements are eligible to compete. In addition, a more official guideline has been established for the Alternative Music Field.
The total number of GRAMMY® categories that will be recognized at the 57th Annual GRAMMY Awards on Feb. 8, 2015, is 83. For updates and breaking news, please visit The Recording Academy's social networks on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
“The Academy's Board of Trustees continues to demonstrate its passionate commitment to keeping The Recording Academy a relevant and responsive organization in our dynamic music community”
"The Academy's Board of Trustees continues to demonstrate its passionate commitment to keeping The Recording Academy a relevant and responsive organization in our dynamic music community," said Neil Portnow, President/CEO of The Recording Academy. "This year's changes to our Awards process are thoughtful, inclusive, and reflective of the current musical landscape, and we look forward to implementing them for the upcoming 57th Annual GRAMMY Awards."
Awards
To ensure the GRAMMY Awards process remains fluid and responsive, The Academy's Trustees have approved the following changes recommended by the Awards & Nominations (A&N) Committee:
*Samples or interpolations of previously written songs are now allowed in all songwriting categories: Song Of The Year, Best Rock Song, Best R&B Song, Best Country Song, Best Gospel Song, Best Contemporary Christian Music Song, Best American Roots Song, and Best Song Written For Visual Media. Previously, samples or interpolations were allowed in only one songwriting category: Best Rap Song, in recognition of the unique craft of writing rap songs.
*Best American Roots Performance has been added to the American Roots Music Field. An artist's award, it will encompass all of the subgenres of the Field (Americana, bluegrass, blues, folk, regional roots music), and recognizes singles/tracks only as well as solo artists/duos/groups/collaborations. This puts the Field in line with the Pop, Rock, Rap, R&B, Country, and Gospel/Contemporary Christian Music Fields, all of which have performance categories.
*The name of the Dance/Electronica Field and Best Dance/Electronica Album category now change to Dance/Electronic Field and Best Dance/Electronic Album. The committees for this Field agreed that the title for this genre has evolved, and updating it more accurately represents the industry nomenclature of today.
*The categories of the Gospel/Contemporary Christian Music Field have been restructured as follows:
Previous Category Structure
Best Gospel/Contemporary Christian Music Performance
Best Gospel Song
Best Contemporary Christian Music Song
Best Gospel Album
Best Contemporary Christian Music Album
New Category Structure
Best Gospel Performance/Song
Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song
Best Gospel Album
Best Contemporary Christian Music Album
Best Roots Gospel Album
The same number of categories remains in the Field (five), and now both the artist(s) and songwriter(s) of new material will be honored in the Best Gospel Performance/Song and Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song categories. Changes to the Field were made in the interest of clarifying the criteria, representing the current culture and creative DNA of the gospel and Contemporary Christian Music communities, and better reflecting the diversity and authenticity of today's gospel music industry, including:
- Place the growing and increasingly popular rap and hip-hop music into the contemporary category where the industry and fans feel it belongs
- Provide a category for traditional Southern gospel and other "roots" gospel albums as both a protector of the heritage of this music and an acknowledgement of the growing interest and support of these genres
- Recognize the critical contribution of both songwriters and performers by combining songwriters and artists into the Best Gospel Performance/Song and Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song categories
- Appropriately integrate artists, songwriters, albums and songs along creative and aesthetic lines.
*Best Pop Instrumental Album has been renamed Best Contemporary Instrumental Album, a new Contemporary Instrumental Music Field has been established, and Best Traditional Pop Album now moves into the Pop Field. This new Field and category name will allow a broader umbrella for instrumental music than the former Best Pop Instrumental Album category and creates a more appropriate home and award for excellence in instrumental performance. In reviewing recent submissions, nominations and wins in this category, most projects are better categorized as "contemporary" music than "pop" music. Categorizing this award in a separate Field puts the emphasis on instrumental music, which provides for better representation of this particular craft, and allows for a more broadly defined category that can encompass all contemporary instrumental music without deference to a particular genre.
Changing the name of the Best Pop Instrumental Album category to Best Contemporary Instrumental Album and moving it out of the Pop Field into its own Field results in only three awards in Pop. Adding the Best Traditional Pop Album category to the Pop Field (and removing the standalone Traditional Pop Field) helps to maintain parity among the mainstream Fields.
*Best Classical Vocal Solo (album or tracks) now becomes Best Classical Solo Vocal Album (albums only). The Best Classical Vocal Solo category began in 1958 as an album category. When it was changed to accept tracks, the category also became a vocal solo category, removing collaborative recognition for essential musicians performing classical music. Orchestras, conductors, pianists, and chamber groups are equal and essential partners in the performance of classical vocal music. The history of this category has shown that with only a few, rare exceptions, the nominees in this category have been predominantly albums. In cases where albums contain mixed musical forms, these albums will now be eligible in the Best Classical Compendium category.
*Best Instrumental Arrangement and Best Instrumental Arrangement Accompanying Vocals have been renamed Best Arrangement, Instrumental Or A Cappella and Best Arrangement, Instruments And Vocals, respectively, so that vocal arrangers/arrangements may now compete as well. Singles or tracks only are eligible in both categories. (Exception: If an album is one complete work [composition] it is eligible.)
*A more formal, official guideline for the Alternative Music Field has been established. The new guideline states that the Best Alternative Music Album category is intended for recordings that take as a starting point any existing musical genre or combination of genres, and expand and redefine the boundaries of those genres. Though there may be considerable overlap with the Alternative radio format, this category is not intended to mirror it.
Previously, this category was intended for recordings of a nontraditional form that exist (at least initially) outside of the mainstream music consciousness. Its avant-garde approach may utilize new technology or new production techniques and contain elements of rock, pop, dance, folk or even classical music styles.
Though the difference between the two may not appear to be particularly dramatic or significant, the new definition is more inclusive and foregoes references to any other particular genre, as well as clarifies the category's relationship to the radio format.
Click here to view the infographic regarding the GRAMMY Awards process.
The Trustees of The Recording Academy, along with Academy senior staff, Chapter Regional Directors, Executive Directors, and Chapter Presidents, met May 20 – 23 at the semiannual series of meetings with agendas designed to strategically chart the course of The Academy and its affiliate corporations.
Established in 1957, The Recording Academy is an organization of musicians, songwriters, producers, engineers and recording professionals that is dedicated to improving the cultural condition and quality of life for music and its makers. Internationally known for the GRAMMY Awards — the preeminent peer-recognized award for musical excellence and the most credible brand in music — The Recording Academy is responsible for groundbreaking professional development, cultural enrichment, advocacy, education and human services programs. The Academy continues to focus on its mission of recognizing musical excellence, advocating for the well-being of music makers and ensuring music remains an indelible part of our culture. For more information about The Academy, please visit www.grammy.com. For breaking news and exclusive content, follow @TheGRAMMYs on Twitter, like "The GRAMMYs" on Facebook, and join The GRAMMYs' social communities on Foursquare, GetGlue, Google +, Instagram, Pinterest, Tumblr, and YouTube.
Friday, June 13, 2014
New Broadcast Networks, "Escape" and "Grit," Sign Deal with Warner Bros.
Escape & Grit Announce First Programming Agreement, Acquire Rights To 135 Motion Pictures From Warner Bros. Domestic Television Distribution
ATLANTA, June 10, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- The country's first-ever female-centric and male-centric over-the-air broadcast television networks -- Escape (For Women) and Grit (For Men) -- have acquired the television rights to 135 demo-targeted motion pictures in a multi-year licensing agreement with Warner Bros. Domestic Television Distribution (WBDTD), it was announced today.
Katz Broadcasting, a new company established by Bounce TV founder/COO and former Turner Broadcasting executive Jonathan Katz, will own and operate the ESCAPE and GRIT broadcast television networks launching this summer. Katz will serve as President and CEO while continuing as COO of Bounce TV.
Escape will target women 25-54 with a brand of programming anchored in stories of crime and mystery. Warner Bros. drama and thriller titles earmarked for Escape include: The contemporary classic Body Heat starring Kathleen Turner; Demi Moore in Disclosure; the Nicole Kidman thrillers Dead Calm and Malice; Kathy Bates creating Misery for James Caan, based on the Stephen King story; Bates in another King tale, Dolores Claiborne with Jennifer Jason Leigh; Copycat starring Sigourney Weaver; Blink with Madeline Stowe and Cate Blanchett as Charlotte Gray; John Grisham's Presumed Innocent; Michelle Pfeiffer in Tequila Sunrise; Star 80 and more.
Action-oriented Grit will reach men 25-54 and be built around the classic male hero archetype with a focus on western, war and action theatrical motion pictures. Among the stars and titles headed to Grit in the WBDTD agreement: Clint Eastwood - As Dirty Harry in Sudden Impact, leading the charge in Kelly's Heroes and also Bronco Billy; Arnold Schwarzenegger in Eraser; Sylvester Stallone in Cobra, Demolition Man and Victory; Jackie Chan starring in Rumble in the Bronx and Jackie Chan's First Strike; Steven Seagal (Hard to Kill, Fire Down Below, On Deadly Ground and Out of Reach); Denzel Washington (Fallen) and more.
Grit also lands such westerns as the John Wayne classics Cahill, U.S. Marshall, Chisum and The Cowboys; Young Guns and Young Guns 2; The Assassination of Jessie James by the Coward Robert Ford starring Brad Pitt and such war and military movies as Stanley Kubrick's Full Metal Jacket, Memphis Belle and Purple Hearts.
Univision Television Group, which owns and/or operates television stations in major U.S. markets, will carry both Escape and Grit on stations representing more than 35% of U.S. television households, including in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas, Houston and Miami. More distribution will be announced shortly.
The two new networks are part of Katz Broadcasting, a new company established by former Turner Broadcasting executive Jonathan Katz.
ATLANTA, June 10, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- The country's first-ever female-centric and male-centric over-the-air broadcast television networks -- Escape (For Women) and Grit (For Men) -- have acquired the television rights to 135 demo-targeted motion pictures in a multi-year licensing agreement with Warner Bros. Domestic Television Distribution (WBDTD), it was announced today.
Katz Broadcasting, a new company established by Bounce TV founder/COO and former Turner Broadcasting executive Jonathan Katz, will own and operate the ESCAPE and GRIT broadcast television networks launching this summer. Katz will serve as President and CEO while continuing as COO of Bounce TV.
Escape will target women 25-54 with a brand of programming anchored in stories of crime and mystery. Warner Bros. drama and thriller titles earmarked for Escape include: The contemporary classic Body Heat starring Kathleen Turner; Demi Moore in Disclosure; the Nicole Kidman thrillers Dead Calm and Malice; Kathy Bates creating Misery for James Caan, based on the Stephen King story; Bates in another King tale, Dolores Claiborne with Jennifer Jason Leigh; Copycat starring Sigourney Weaver; Blink with Madeline Stowe and Cate Blanchett as Charlotte Gray; John Grisham's Presumed Innocent; Michelle Pfeiffer in Tequila Sunrise; Star 80 and more.
Action-oriented Grit will reach men 25-54 and be built around the classic male hero archetype with a focus on western, war and action theatrical motion pictures. Among the stars and titles headed to Grit in the WBDTD agreement: Clint Eastwood - As Dirty Harry in Sudden Impact, leading the charge in Kelly's Heroes and also Bronco Billy; Arnold Schwarzenegger in Eraser; Sylvester Stallone in Cobra, Demolition Man and Victory; Jackie Chan starring in Rumble in the Bronx and Jackie Chan's First Strike; Steven Seagal (Hard to Kill, Fire Down Below, On Deadly Ground and Out of Reach); Denzel Washington (Fallen) and more.
Grit also lands such westerns as the John Wayne classics Cahill, U.S. Marshall, Chisum and The Cowboys; Young Guns and Young Guns 2; The Assassination of Jessie James by the Coward Robert Ford starring Brad Pitt and such war and military movies as Stanley Kubrick's Full Metal Jacket, Memphis Belle and Purple Hearts.
Univision Television Group, which owns and/or operates television stations in major U.S. markets, will carry both Escape and Grit on stations representing more than 35% of U.S. television households, including in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas, Houston and Miami. More distribution will be announced shortly.
The two new networks are part of Katz Broadcasting, a new company established by former Turner Broadcasting executive Jonathan Katz.
Review: "Not Another Teen Movie" is Wacky (Happy B'day, Chris Evans)
Not Another Teen Movie (2001)
Running time: 89 minutes (1 hour, 29 minutes)
MPAA – R for strong crude sexual content and humor, language, and some drug content
DIRECTOR: Joel Gallen
WRITERS: Michael G. Bende, Adam Jay Epstein, and Andrew Jacobson and Phil Beauman and Buddy Johnson
PRODUCER: Neal H. Moritz
CINEMATOGRAPHER: Reynaldo Villalobos (D.o.P.)
EDITOR: Steve Welch
COMPOSER: Theodore Shapiro
COMEDY
Starring: Chyler Leigh, Chris Evans, Jamie Pressly, Eric Christian Olsen, Mia Kirshner, Deon Richmond, Eric Jungmann, Ron Lester, Cody McMains, Sam Huntington, Joanna Garcia, Lacey Chabert, Samm Levine, Cerina Vincent, Beverly Polcyn, Ed Lauter, Paul Gleason, Mr. T, Molly Ringwald, Samaire Armstrong, Nectar Rose, and Randy Quaid with Nick Bakay, Melissa Joan Hart, and Sean Patrick Thomas
The subject of this movie review is Not Another Teen Movie, a 2001 comedy and parody film. Not Another Teen Movie is a send-up and spoof of the teen movies that came before it, especially those that appeared in the two decades proceeding Not Another Teen Movie’s release.
When a group of screenwriters is trying to write a movie script that parodies two decades of teen movies, the script could end up packed to the gills from too many film references, and that’s what happens to Not Another Teen Movie. This flick is a parody of teen movies going back to John Hughes’s Pretty in Pink (1986), but it especially focuses its satirical eye on the wave of the teen films that were released in the second half of the 1990’s.
That was a time when teenagers had so much disposable income because of a booming economy, and the entertainment, food, and apparel industries did everything they could to offer as many product choices as possible to these affluent and relatively affluent teenagers; there certainly was no shortage of films geared towards these youngsters.
In fact the high school that is central to the plot of Not Another Teen Movie, John Hughes High School, is named after filmmaker John Hughes, who came to prominence in the 1980’s with such popular teen flicks as Sixteen Candles and The Breakfast Club (1985). Not Another Teen Movie is a tale of high school melodrama and sexual shenanigans. Jake Wyler (Chris Evans, who is also currently playing “Johnny Storm” in Fantastic Four), handsome senior, but disgraced former starting quarterback, takes a bet that he can turn a homely, nerdy girl into the prom queen.
His choice for the girl to transform is Janey Briggs (Chyler Leigh), a dirty poor, white trash girl, who (of course) is extraordinarily beautiful once she’s cleaned up, takes of her glasses, and loosens her hair out of a long ponytail. They gradually fall for one another; now, Jake and Janey must travel from their inauspicious beginnings and go through 20 years of accumulated teen movie refuse in order to get to their teen movie happy ending.
Not Another Teen Movie parodies or references several John Hughes films and such teen classics as Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982), The Goonies (1985), Can’t Hardly Wait (1998), She’s All That (1999), Varsity Blues (1999), plus Clueless, Never Been Kissed, Road Trip, and Ten Things I Hate About You. Like 2003’s Scary Movie 3 (and the entire Scary Movie franchise, for that matter), Not Another Teen Movie is full of hilarious scenes sprinkled generously over a piss-poor plot and a dead screenplay. Luckily some of the scenes are either super funny or so totally out of left field that they could blow minds: Chris Evans’ Jake Wyler singing Aerosmith’s “Janie’s Got a Gun;” Deon Richmond’s Malik, the token black guy running into Sean Patrick Thomas’ unnamed black guy at a party where Malik is supposed to be the only black guy there; and the prom night musical number that is actually sung by the cast.
Moviegoers who have seen at least one teen movie (whether they were a teen at the time or not) going back to Fast Times at Ridgemont High in 1982 will find something they recognize from that sub-genre of films that chronicle the wacky misadventures of high school students. That makes Not Another Teen Movie a must-see in spite of its flaws.
5 of 10
C+
Updated: Friday, June 13, 2014
The text is copyright © 2014 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this site for syndication rights and fees.
Thursday, June 12, 2014
"RANMA ½ Limited Edition Blu-ray Box Set, Volume 2" Coming Soon
VIZ MEDIA RELEASES RANMA ½ ANIME SERIES VOLUME 2 LIMITED EDITION BLU-RAY BOX SET
Don’t Miss The Legendary Martial Arts Comedy In Stunning High Definition In A 3-Disc Set Filled With Special Bonus Features And Extras; Standard Edition DVD Set Also Available
VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest distributor and licensor of anime and manga in North America, delivers the next installment of the celebrated return of the classic RANMA ½ anime series in new, digitally restored, High Definition Limited Edition Blu-ray and Standard Edition DVD Box Sets with the release of Volume 2 – covering Episodes 24-46 – on June 24th.
VIZ Media is releasing the revered gender-bending martial arts action comedy, based on the popular manga series created by Rumiko Takahashi, in its original Japanese series order across seven Limited Edition Blu-ray and DVD Box Sets. Each contains a wealth of special bonus features and other extras that fans will not want to miss. RANMA ½ is rated TV-14.
The RANMA ½ Limited Edition Blu-ray Box Set, Volume 2 carries an MSRP of $54.97 U.S. / $66.15 CAN. The set features 23 episodes on 3 discs, presented for the first time ever in full 1080p High Definition resolution with the series’ original, un-cropped 4:3 aspect ratio. The Standard Edition DVD set is available with an MSRP of $44.82 U.S. / $43.24 CAN.
Guaranteed to become a highlight of any anime fan’s media collection, the Limited Edition Blu-ray Box Set comes packaged in a premium chipboard box with gold foil stamping that is beautifully illustrated by Rumiko Takahashi and also includes a 32-page booklet, complete episode guide, and a collectable full-color RANMA ½ art card. Special bonus features available exclusively on the Blu-ray edition include, ’We love Ranma’ Part 2 – Favorite Scenes,’ the continuation of an ongoing series of insightful interviews tracing the legacy and impact of the groundbreaking anime show.
The RANMA ½ Standard Edition DVD set features 23 episodes presented in HD with the original, un-cropped 4:3 aspect ratio, and bonus features that include clean openings and endings and trailers.
Dialogue options for both DVD and Blu-ray formats include original Japanese with accurate English subtitles or dubbed English audio, along with a secondary subtitle track for signs and songs.
The latest RANMA ½ box set continues the zany adventures of Ranma Saotome, the boy who turns into a girl with a splash of water and always has his hands full fending off enthusiastic admirers! One of the most enthusiastic is Shampoo, the powerful Amazon from China who wants to kill the girl Ranma and marry the boy Ranma! And when she falls into a cursed spring and turns into a cat, the claws come out! But Shampoo has a suitor of her own, Mousse, who shows up one day and challenges Ranma to a battle over…Ranma’s fiancée, Akane? Then, Ranma’s dad, Genma, and Akane’s dad, Soun, studied under the same master, Happosai, who happens to be a bit of a perv. Surely there could be no connection between his sudden appearance and the disappearance of some neighborhood ladies’ undies!
RANMA ½ manga creator Rumiko Takahashi is one of Japan’s most prolific and respected manga artists and is the creator of several long running series including MAISON IKKOKU, RANMA ½, and INUYASHA – all published in North America by VIZ Media. The spotlight on her prolific career began in 1978 when she won an honorable mention in Shogakukan's annual New Comic Artist Contest for Those Selfish Aliens. Later that same year, her boy-meets-alien comedy series, Urusei Yatsura, was serialized in Weekly Shonen Sunday. This phenomenally successful manga series was adapted into anime format and also spawned a TV series and half a dozen theatrical-release movies, all incredibly popular. Takahashi followed up the success of her debut series with one blockbuster hit after another— MAISON IKKOKU ran from 1980 to 1987, RANMA ½ from 1987 to 1996, and INUYASHA from 1996 to 2008. Other notable works include MERMAID SAGA, RUMIC THEATER, ONE-POUND GOSPEL, and RIN-NE (all also published in North America by VIZ Media).
For more information on RANMA ½ and other Rumiko Takahashi titles published by VIZ Media, please visit www.VIZ.com.
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Wednesday, June 11, 2014
Review: Director Peyton Reed Brought It with "Bring It On"
Bring It On (2000)
Running time: 98 minutes (1 hour, 38 minutes)
MPAA – PG-13 for sex-related material and language
DIRECTOR: Peyton Reed
WRITER: Jessica Bendinger
PRODUCERS: Marc Abraham and Thomas A. Bliss
CINEMATOGRAPHER: Shawn Maurer
EDITOR: Larry Bock
COMPOSER: Christophe Beck
Black Reel Awards winner
COMEDY
Starring: Kirsten Dunst, Eliza Dushku, Jesse Bradford, Gabrielle Union, Clare Kramer, Tsianina Joelson, Rini Bell, Nathan West, Shamari Fears, Natina Reed, Brandi Williams, Lindsay Sloane, Holmes Osborne, Sherry Hursey, and Cody McMains
The subject of this movie review is Bring It On, a 2000 high school sports comedy from director Peyton Reed. The film spawned four direct-to-DVD sequels and a stage musical. Bring It On (the original film) focuses on a head cheerleader who makes a shocking discovery just before the upcoming cheerleading championship tournament: the previous captain of her high school’s cheerleading squad stole their best cheer routines from an inner-city school.
All-American girl Torrance Shipman (Kirsten Dunst) sees her dream finally come true. She is now the head cheerleader of the Rancho Carne Toros, at her high school in suburban San Diego. The Toros have won The Nationals of the high school cheerleading championship the last five years, and Torrance is not about to let anything – her parents, her little brother, her grades, or her college future – get in the way of a sixth consecutive title.
The big shocker comes when Torrance learns that her predecessor was stealing the routines that earned the Toros their reputation from an inner-city high school hip-hop cheerleading squad, the Clovers of East Compton. And the Clovers and their captain, Isis (Gabrielle Union), are looking to get even with the Toros at the 2000 Nationals. Now, Torrance and her Toros are going to have to learn all-new routines, all while dealing with the trials and tribulations of high school life.
Bring It On was a hit with ‘tweens, teens, and 20-somethings back in 2000. Although it’s competently directed and the writing doesn’t do much in the character department, the Machiavellian-lite, cutthroat world of competitive youth events, in this case, the world of competitive cheerleading, provides this movie’s fireworks. It’s fun to watch the catfights, preening dumb jocks, and every kid with a smart aleck attitude.
The cheerleading performances, from the practices to the championship, are rousing enough to make you stand up and cheer. The acting isn’t all that great, and the script doesn’t give the black cheerleaders enough room to show that there is actually character behind their sass. Kirsten Dunst’s performance is serviceable for this flick, and Eliza Dushku’s hot babe, Missy Pantone, makes what started out as a dull Disney-like teen movie into a real movie the moment she struts on stage.
6 of 10
B
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
Updated: Wednesday, June 11, 2014
NOTES:
2001 Black Reel Awards: 1 win: “Theatrical - Best Supporting Actress” (Gabrielle Union)
The text is copyright © 2014 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this site for syndication rights and fees.
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