Brent Lang - starsalert.com

variety.com

10.05.2023 / 16:57

Jason Schwartzman, Carol Kane Starring in ‘Between the Temples,’ an ‘Anxious Comedy’ About a Cantor and His Student (EXCLUSIVE)

Brent Lang Executive Editor Jason Schwartzman and Carol Kane are starring in “Between the Temples,” a new film from writer and director Nathan Silver that’s being described as “an anxious comedy.” It’s the story of a cantor who is locked in a crisis of faith and finds his world turned upside down when his grade school music teacher re-enters his life as his new adult Bat Mitzvah student. The supporting cast for this humorous exercise in neurosis boasts Dolly De Leon, who was just nominated for her scene-stealing work in “Triangle of Sadness.” Other ensemble members include Screen Actors Guild award-winner Caroline Aaron (“The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel”), longtime funnyman Robert Smigel (SNL’s “TV Funhouse”), stage and screen actress Madeline Weinstein (“Beach Rats”) and indie film regular Matthew Shear (“Mistress America”).

Annie Hall Jason Schwartzman Brent Lang Carol Kane Caroline Aaron Robert Smigel Sean Price Williams Dolly De-Leon city Kingston Entertainment film show stars actor photography innovations and

variety.com

08.05.2023 / 20:35

CJ 4DPlex Ticket Sales Up 70% in 2023 in Sign of Box Office Rebound

Brent Lang Executive Editor CJ 4DPlex is off to the strongest start in its history with revenues for the first four months of the year tracking 70% higher than 2022. It’s a sign of how much movie fans seem to be enjoying immersive experiences as the pandemic starts to recede. The first four months of 2023’s box office for the company’s 4DX and ScreenX theaters is tracking 36% higher than pre-pandemic levels (2019), and generating over $150 million through May 1. The company’s combined network has more than 1,100 premium screens consisting of both its ScreenX venues, the world’s first multi-projection cinema with an immersive 270-degree field of view, and its multi-sensory 4DX theaters, which add motion, vibration, water, wind, snow, lightning, scents and other special effects to movies that are unfolding on screen. The company is headquartered in Seoul with international offices in Los Angeles and Beijing.

Brent Lang Los Angeles city Seoul city Beijing film performer pandemic track Music CEO Waters sign

variety.com

08.05.2023 / 16:41

Nicolas Cage, Bill Skarsgård Playing Father and Son Arms Dealers in ‘Lord of War’ Sequel for Andrew Niccol, Vendôme Group

Brent Lang Executive Editor Nicolas Cage will return to the shadowy world of illegal weapons sales, but this time, it’s become a family affair. The Oscar-winning star will reunite with writer and director Andrew Niccol on “Lords Of War,” the sequel to their 2005 crime thriller, “Lord Of War.” Cage will reprise his role as morally compromised arms dealer Yuri Orlov with “It’s” Bill Skarsgård co-starring as his son, who is a chip off the old block. Vendôme Group is backing the project, which is set to begin principal photography in the fall of 2023. FilmNation Entertainmentwill represent the international sales rights and introduce the film at the Cannes Film Festival, while CAA Media Finance will handle the domestic rights. Philippe Rousselet and Fabrice Gianfermi who produced the original are producing under their Vendôme Pictures banner, alongside Cage under his company, Saturn Films. Skarsgård is executive producing.

Bill Skarsgard Nicolas Cage Philippe Rousselet Fabrice Gianfermi Brent Lang Of War Andrew Niccol Saturn Films Cannes Films film stars awards photography BLOCK Banner and

variety.com

05.05.2023 / 15:39

Andrew Garfield, Daisy Edgar-Jones Playing Carl Sagan and Ann Druyan in Sebastián Lelio’s ‘Voyagers’ for FilmNation Entertainment

Brent Lang Executive Editor Sebastián Lelio, the Oscar-winning auteur behind “A Fantastic Woman,” will direct Andrew Garfield and Daisy Edgar-Jones in “Voyagers,” the story of the romantic relationship between astronomer and “Contact” author Carl Sagan and documentary producer and director Ann Druyan. The feature is produced by Ben Browning for FilmNation Entertainment, Lynda Obst, who guided “Contact” to the big screen, and Druyan herself. FilmNation Entertainment is set to launch global sales at the upcoming Cannes Market “Voyagers” unfolds in 1977 as NASA prepared to launch humanity’s first interstellar probes. A team led by Sagan sets out to create a message to accompany them, known as the Golden Record, which included music and images, for possible alien civilizations. But what starts out as a race-against-the-clock mission blossoms into a love story between Sagan and Druyan. FilmNation Entertianment paired Druyan, who married Sagan in 1981, with screenwriters Lelio and Jessica Goldberg. They then wrote the original screenplay based on interviews with Druyan and many others who worked on the Golden Record project.

Carl Sagan Andrew Garfield Brent Lang Sebastian Lelio Ann Druyan Jessica Goldberg Lynda Obst Chile county Jones Entertainment stars record awards cover Love Music and

variety.com

02.05.2023 / 17:39

Natasha Henstridge Starring in ‘House of Abraham’ Opposite Lukas Hassel, Lin Shaye (EXCLUSIVE)

Brent Lang Executive Editor Natasha Henstridge will star in “House of Abraham,” an upcoming thriller that marks the feature film directing debut of award-winning short filmmaker Lisa Belcher. She joins a cast that includes Lukas Hassel (“The Blacklist“) and Lin Shaye (“Insidious”). Hassel wrote the script. The film tells the story of Dee (Henstridge), a desperate woman who arrives at the “House of Abraham” to end her life with the help of Abraham (Hassel), who leads weekend retreats for those looking to bid a permanent farewell to the world. As the weekend progresses, it soon becomes clear Dee has a secret agenda that throws the weekend and its participants into unexpected and sinister chaos. Shaye plays Beatrice, Abraham’s trusted partner in hosting the retreats who is also hiding her own secrets.

Alexis Knapp Brent Lang Natasha Henstridge Paul Ben-Victor Los Angeles Texas county Day Austin, state Texas Entertainment Rock film show stars Progressive

variety.com

30.04.2023 / 23:45

The Costumes of ‘Bob Fosse’s Dancin”: How Reid Bartelme and Harriet Jung Evoked the Choreographer’s Legacy With a Modern Touch

Brent Lang Executive Editor When it came time to create the more than 200 mini-skirts, sequined dresses, elegant suits and other outfits that the cast of “Bob Fosse’s Dancin'” hoofs it in, costume designers Reid Bartelme and Harriet Jung faced a big dilemma. They needed to pay tribute to the legendary choreographer’s legacy while still making something of the moment. That meant combing through archival material from Fosse’s many shows, ranging from films like “Kiss Me Kate” and “Cabaret” to his late-period masterpieces such as “Big Deal.” But there was very little to consult when it came to the 1978 original “Dancin'” other than a few grainy videos of a Japanese production and some photos of Willa Kim’s costumes.

Brent Lang USA Miami New York county Taylor Japan San Francisco dance film beautiful show performer stage Citi and Touch

variety.com

27.04.2023 / 21:55

James L. Brooks Warned Judy Blume Not to Trust Hollywood. She Still Let Him Produce a Movie of ‘Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret’

Brent Lang Executive Editor To get the chance to make a movie of Judy Blume’s “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret,” producer James L. Brooks and writer and director Kelly Fremon Craig made the pilgrimage to the beloved author’s home in Key West, Fla. “I spent most of our time with Judy warning her about Hollywood and all the things it will do to you — basically, I warned her about folks like me,” says Brooks, the Oscar-winning director of “Terms of Endearment” and the co-creator of “The Simpsons” and “The Mary Tyler Moore Show.” Blume chose not to heed the admonition. By the end of their sit-down, Brooks, Craig and Blume’s husband George were all hugging. The film rights were theirs. It turns out Brooks and Craig had an ace up their sleeve: Blume had loved their collaboration “The Edge of Seventeen,” a sensitively drawn look at a teenager navigating the minefield of high school while processing her dad’s death. It’s a coming-of-age tale that’s similar to “Are You There God?,” which depicts the challenges and mortifications of being on the cusp of puberty. On April 28, fans of the book will get to see how successfully Craig, Brooks and their collaborators pulled it off when the Lionsgate release opens in theaters.

James L.Brooks Kelly Fremon Judy Blume Brent Lang Julie Ansell Florida city Moore, county Tyler city Key West, state Florida Hollywood film death gossips folk Love Tiktok

variety.com

27.04.2023 / 00:31

Will Ferrell and Adorable Puppy Co-Star Tease Very R-Rated ‘Strays,’ Featuring Magic Mushrooms and Dennis Quaid Cameo

Brent Lang Executive Editor Will Ferrell brought out an adorable fluffy friend named Sophie to hawk his very R-rated new comedy, “Strays,” at CinemaCon on Wednesday. The comic actor and the border terrier teamed up to portray Reggie, a dog who is abandoned by his deadbeat owner (Will Forte). But Ferrell made it clear who has top billing. “My career is going to go on for a long time, but this is the peak for you,” Ferrell said, as the camera operator at the cavernous Colosseum kept cutting back to Sophie’s soulful eyes. If there’s a “Strays 3,” Ferrell joked, the 8-year old Sophie would need to be recast. “That’s an eternity in dog years…and that’s not even Hollywood years,” he said.

Josh Gad Jamie Foxx Sofia Vergara Will Ferrell Isla Fisher Dennis Quaid Randall Park Brent Lang USA Hollywood lgbt show actor voice career Bill and

variety.com

27.04.2023 / 00:01

Christopher Nolan Unveils Nail-Biting ‘Oppenheimer’ Footage to Huge Applause at CinemaCon

Brent Lang Executive Editor Christopher Nolan took the stage at CinemaCon on Wednesday to unveil dramatic new footage from “Oppenheimer,” his sweeping look at the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the American theoretical physicist who helped create the atomic bomb. Nolan, who has been a big advocate for the big screen and a critic of streaming, took the stage to huge applause from the crowd of movie theater owners. “I know of no more dramatic tale with higher stakes,” Nolan said of his latest opus. And boy did the film look nail-biting, as Oppenheimer creates a bomb with the potential to lead to unbelievable loss of life and destruction. There were scenes of the physicists team engaged in the top-secret work of bomb-making, but the movie also spins forward in time to a point where Russia has developed its atomic technology, triggering suspicions of espionage at Los Alamos. Nolan said that the film’s protagonist made decisions that still reverberate to this day.

Christopher Nolan Brent Lang Robert Oppenheimer USA Russia county Nolan county Los Alamos Hollywood film stage pandemic gossips man Dreams

variety.com

26.04.2023 / 17:01

Chris Pine to Play Ruler of Magical Kingdom in Walt Disney Animation’s ‘Wish’

Brent Lang Executive Editor Chris Pine has been cast in “Wish,” Walt Disney’s upcoming animated musical. He joins an ensemble that includes Oscar-winner Ariana DeBose and Alan Tudyk. News that the “Star Trek” star will add his dulcet tones to the family film came at CinemaCon. Pine most recently appeared in “Don’t Worry Darling” and “Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves.” His credits include “Jack Ryan,” “Into the Woods,” “Hell or High Water” and “Wonder Woman.” “Wish” is written by Jennifer Lee and directed by Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn. The film revolves around an intriguing, slightly meta question: How did the wishing star, which so many Disney characters wished upon, come into the cosmos. The film unfolds in the magical kingdom of Rosas and introduces Asha, an optimist with a sharp wit who deeply cares about her community. When Asha turns to the sky in a moment of need and makes a wish, her plea is answered by a little ball of energy called Star. Together, they team up to save Asha’s community.

Julia Michaels Chris Buck Jennifer Lee Jack Ryan Ariana Debose Chris Pine Alan Tudyk Brent Lang Benjamin Rice Fawn Veerasunthorn film beautiful stars song voice Music Ball

variety.com

25.04.2023 / 16:45

Theater Owners Chief John Fithian Argues Streaming Is Not a ‘Sustainable Business Model’ and Studios Need Cinemas for Profits

Brent Lang Executive Editor During the pandemic, studios experimented with shrinking the amount of time that their films screened exclusively in cinemas, while spending oceans of money to launch streaming services. But the debt they racked up has sent their share prices plummeting and, now, studios are making more movies for theaters and cutting back on their streaming budgets. CinemaCon, the annual exhibition industry showcase that is unfolding this week in Las Vegas, couldn’t be happier about the shift in strategy. John Fithian, the head of the National Association of Theatre Owners, the trade group behind the show, touted the new state of play during his speech to the convention, while praising Apple and Amazon for embracing the big screen with movies like “Air” and the upcoming “Killers of the Flower Moon” and “Napoleon.” Both of these companies will reportedly spend more than $1 billion on theatrical films.

John Fithian Brent Lang Las Vegas film show pandemic reports exclusive Department Strategy and

variety.com

25.04.2023 / 03:25

Ridley Scott’s Historical Epic ‘Napoleon’ With Joaquin Phoenix Shares Spectacular Battle Scene at CinemaCon

Brent Lang Executive Editor “Napoleon,” Ridley Scott’s sweeping historical epic about the French leader, debuted footage for the first time at CinemaCon. The film is produced by Apple Original Films and is being distributed in theaters by Sony, which used its presentation to talk up the movie. “The film shouts big screen,” Sony Pictures chief Tom Rothman teased. Joaquin Phoenix stars as Napoleon Bonaparte, the brilliant military strategist who conquered much of Europe. But the film isn’t all about the battles that determined the course of history. It will also offer a more personal look at the visionary commander by dissecting his volatile relationship with his wife, Josephine, who is played by Vanessa Kirby.

Vanessa Kirby Ridley Scott Tom Rothman Brent Lang Napoleon Bonaparte France film stars awards consequences Sony ICE Oscar epic

variety.com

25.04.2023 / 02:11

Will Smith, Martin Lawrence Tease ‘Bad Boys 4’ at CinemaCon: ‘We’re Hype, We’re Excited’

Brent Lang Executive Editor Will Smith and Martin Lawrence kicked off CinemaCon by talking up their return to “Bad Boys” business. “We’re hype, we’re excited,” Smith told the crowd of movie theater owners. He apologized for not being able to be in Las Vegas for the annual convention of the exhibition industry…well, kinda. “We’re not sorry we couldn’t be there,” Lawrence admonished him, noting they were four weeks into film the fourth film in the franchise. “We glad we not there because we here and they’re paying us to be here,” Smith said.

Elton John Will Smith Alexander Ludwig Vanessa Hudgens Chris Rock For Life Martin Lawrence Mike Lowrey Marcus Burnett Chris Bremner Mitch Neuhauser Eric Dane Brent Lang Bilall Fallah Paola Nuñez Las Vegas film stage Love Oscar

variety.com

20.04.2023 / 18:17

Connecticut Declares April 23 ‘Little Richard Day’ in Honor of New Documentary (EXCLUSIVE)

Brent Lang Executive Editor Connecticut is set to declare Sunday, April 23, 2023 as “Little Richard Day” in honor of the late performer’s “incomparable contributions to the history of music in America.” And no, the rock n’ roll icon doesn’t hail from the Nutmeg state. He was born in Georgia and lived in California, Tennessee and other ports of call until his death in 2020. Rather, Gov. Ned Lamont is issuing the proclamation in recognition of the release this month of “Little Richard: I Am Everything” and Connecticut’s many ties to the production. The film, which Magnolia bought out of the Sundance Film Festival, will premiere at the Bedford Playhouse, which is hosted by the Greenwich International Film Festival on April 23. It was produced by Greenwich International Film Festival board member Robert Friedman and produced and directed by Lisa Cortés, a Connecticut native and an alumna of Yale University.

Mick Jagger Elvis Presley Sam Cooke Ray Charles Otis Redding Ned Lamont Brent Lang Lisa Cortés California county Day state Connecticut Tennessee Rock film death 2020 queer Celebrity Music

variety.com

19.04.2023 / 17:51

Rachel Sennott on Balancing Raunchy Comedy in ‘Bottoms’ and Heartbreaking Humor in ‘I Used to Be Funny’

Brent Lang Executive Editor To paraphrase dear Hannah Horvath from “Girls,” Rachel Sennott may not be the voice of her generation, but she certainly is a voice of a generation. And oh, what a voice. Smart, vulnerable, slightly neurotic, frequently ironic, always compelling. It’s a delicious style of comedy honed on Twitter, Instagram and other platforms, where the 27-year-old Sennott first developed a following with her wry observations on dating and personal finance. Then crystalized in starring roles in “Shiva Baby” (a masterclass in awkward humor) and the horror film “Bodies Bodies Bodies” (surprisingly amusing despite the gore). But with the one-two punch of “Bottoms” and “I Used to Be Funny,” both of which premiered at this year’s SXSW, Sennott has further demonstrated how rich and malleable her comic persona can be.

Rachel Sennott Brent Lang Emma Seligman Ayo Edebiri USA Twitter Instagram film stars voice persona Platform and

variety.com

18.04.2023 / 19:05

Anatomy of a Megadeal: How Flight Attendant-Turned-Novelist T.J. Newman Sparked a Hollywood Bidding War for ‘Drowning’

Brent Lang Executive Editor Three years ago, T.J. Newman was handing out peanuts and pouring drinks for airplane passengers. Last month, she was hustling between Zoom calls with Nicole Kidman and Jerry Bruckheimer as they tried to outbid each other for the rights to “Drowning,” her upcoming novel about a jetliner that crashes into the ocean. It’s all part of an improbable Cinderella story that’s taken Newman, a flight attendant-turned-bestselling writer, from manning first-class cabins to becoming one of Hollywood’s most in-demand talents. Newman admits she still hasn’t accepted her change in fortunes. “Any time I board a plane, I still want to get up and collect trash or help someone put their bag in an overhead bin,” she says. “I have to remind myself: You can sit and order a drink instead of serving it.”

Steven Spielberg Alfonso Cuarón Damien Chazelle Jerry Bruckheimer Warner Bros Brent Lang Shane Salerno Entertainment Hollywood career Love man PayDay Flushing

variety.com

14.04.2023 / 16:19

‘Super Mario Bros. Movie’ Passes $500 Million Globally, Becomes Biggest Video Game Adaptation Ever

Brent Lang Executive Editor “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” continues to be a box office high-scorer. The video game adaptation has crossed the $500 million mark at the global box office, shattering records with the gusto that its title character usually amasses power-ups. To date, the animated adventure has earned $260.3 million domestically and $248.4 million internationally. That lifts its worldwide haul to $508.7 million. It is now the highest-grossing film of 2023 at both the global and domestic box office, surpassing “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” (unlike that movie, people seem to have enjoyed this one). More important, it also makes “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” the biggest video game adaptation in history, topping the grosses of “Warcraft” and “Detective Pikachu.”

Jack Black Chris Pratt Chris Meledandri Brent Lang Aaron Horvath Michael Jelenic Nintendo film record classical voice Adventure

variety.com

07.04.2023 / 18:13

Damson Idris Joins Brad Pitt in Apple Original Films Formula One Feature

Brent Lang Executive Editor “Snowfall” star Damson Idris will appear opposite Brad Pitt in a new Formula One racing film from “Top Gun: Maverick” director Joseph Kosinski. The untitled movie is being made by Apple Original Films and will be produced by Jerry Bruckheimer Films and Pitt’s Plan B Entertainment. Kosinski will produce the feature alongside seven-time Formula One champion Sir Lewis Hamilton under his Dawn Apollo Films banner, and Jerry Bruckheimer and Chad Oman of Jerry Bruckheimer Films. Ehren Kruger, who did similar honors on “Top Gun: Maverick,” is writing the screenplay. The racing feature stars Pitt as a former driver who returns to the sport. Idris will play his teammate. Aside from that, engines will be revved, finish lines will be crossed, cars will collide… OK, we really have no idea what happens on or off the track. But since the movie is being made in cooperation with Formula One, the action sequences will likely be a standout.

Brad Pitt Martin Scorsese Robert De-Niro Lewis Hamilton Leonardo Dicaprio Vanessa Kirby Anthony Mackie Ridley Scott Joseph Kosinski Brent Lang Lily Gladstone Ehren Kruger Phoenix Kirby Jordan Chad county Pitt Oman Entertainment film stars track sports Banner Racing

variety.com

07.04.2023 / 15:45

Box Office: ‘Super Mario Bros. Movie’ Earns Massive $26.5 Million on Thursday, ‘Air’ Picks Up $2.4 Million

Brent Lang Executive Editor It’s-a blockbuster! “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” continued to rack up high scores at the box office as it heads into Easter weekend. The animated movie, a collaboration between Illumination, Nintendo and Universal, shows no signs of slowing down, earning a massive $26.5 million on Thursday. That brings its domestic haul to $58.2 million. At this rate, the mustachioed plumber should end his first five days on the big screen with more than $150 million in stateside winnings. Internationally, the movie has earned $62.5 million, pushing global ticket sales to $120.7 million. The week’s other major new release, Amazon Studios’s “Air,” a footwear tale detailing how Nike convinced Michael Jordan to become its most successful brand ambassador, earned $2.4 million on Thursday. That brings the sneaker story’s domestic total to just under $6 million. The film, which stars Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Chris Tucker and Viola Davis, is expected to earn $16 million in its first five days in theaters. That’s a mere blip compared to Mario, but a solid result considering the struggles that movies aimed at adults have faced. Affleck directs the film in addition to starring opposite his “Good Will Hunting” buddy Damon. “Air” cost $90 million to make, meaning that Amazon better sell a lot of paper towels to justify that spending.

Chris Pratt Viola Davis Matt Damon Michael Jordan Chris Tucker Brent Lang Owen Gleiberman Jordan Nintendo film show stars voice gossips Dreams

variety.com

06.04.2023 / 20:01

Gravitas Ventures Buys Ashley Avis Documentary ‘Wild Beauty: Mustang Spirit of the West’ (EXCLUSIVE)

Brent Lang Executive Editor Gravitas Ventures has acquired North American distribution rights to “Wild Beauty: Mustang Spirit of the West,” a documentary that shines a harsh spotlight on the U.S. government’s treatment of wild horses. The non-fiction film was written, directed, and edited by Ashley Avis, who is best known for making 2020’s “Black Beauty” for Disney+. Gravitas Ventures will release the documentary in select theaters and on demand on May 12, 2023. The film looks at the reasons why wild horses in the Western part of the U.S. are fast disappearing and could be eradicated. At its core, the film argues, is a divisive battle over land and special interests, one in which horses are collateral damage. They are rounded up by helicopters, and facing encroachment on their natural habitat. Often, officials separate them from their families, a wrenching experience for the animals.

Brent Lang Ashley Avis Gravitas Ventures USA film beautiful audience action Banner Bill

variety.com

06.04.2023 / 17:05

Method or Madness: Jeremy Strong and Brian Cox’s ‘Succession’ Drama Represents a Larger Clash of Acting Styles

Brent Lang Executive Editor “Method acting” long ago lost its meaning. Instead, it’s become a catchall to describe an intense commitment to getting it right on stage or screen. It’s an all-out approach that sees performers pack and shed pounds, feast on live cockroaches or raw bison, extract teeth or eschew showers, and remain in character between takes. Those are just a few examples of the extremes to which Robert De Niro, Christian Bale, Nicolas Cage, Leonardo DiCaprio, Shia LaBeouf, Charlize Theron, Daniel Day-Lewis and their ilk push themselves in the service of their art. For their suffering, they receive Oscars and Emmys, along with a ton of media coverage — just look at the scores of pieces documenting the gonzo things Jared Leto has done each time one of his movies get released.

Charlize Theron Robert De-Niro Leonardo Dicaprio Jared Leto Christian Bale Brian Cox Nicolas Cage Royal National Theatre Brent Lang show performer stage art actor Extreme Oscar and

variety.com

05.04.2023 / 23:11

‘A Little Life’ Review: Ivo Van Hove’s Production of Hanya Yanagihara’s Novel Is More Admirable Than Moving

Brent Lang Executive Editor The alacrity with which the entire audience leapt to its collective feet the second that Ivo van Hove’s production of the trauma-filled “A Little Life” ended tells us two things. Firstly, that there is plenty to admire in the committed, heartfelt performances of the company of eight actors led by an emotionally unsparing James Norton. Secondly, that despite what should be deeply distressing content about life-wrecking child abuse and extreme self-harm with a less than joyous ending, no one was so upset that they were unable to move. Which is a problem. “I kept putting the pages down,” says Harold in the play’s closing speech. Played with touching authority by Zubin Varla, he’s speaking of the pain-filled, eight-page, explanatory letter he has read, written by his adoptive son Jude, the play’s central character. That’s not a luxury afforded to the audience. They have endured Jude’s extreme pain being acted out unflinchingly across three hours and 40 minutes, the only break for air being the single intermission.

James Norton Ivo Van-Hove Brent Lang Zubin Varla Beyond performer stage audience actor shock Extreme

variety.com

05.04.2023 / 17:41

Carmelo Anthony, Asani Swann Join Musical ‘The Harder They Come’ as Executive Producers (EXCLUSIVE)

Brent Lang Executive Editor Carmelo Anthony has come on as an executive producer of “The Harder They Come,” a new stage musical that is about to finish a sold-out run at New York’s Public Theater. In addition, Anthony’s long-time business partner Asani Swann, who co-founded the basketball star’s production company Creative 7, will also serve as an executive producer on the show. They are joining the production as it looks to find a regional theater where it hopes to fine-tune the show before possibly mounting a Broadway return. Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Suzan-Lori Parks, best known for “Topdog/Underdog,” penned the adaptation of the 1972 Jamaican crime film. That movie and now the show feature music from Reggae icon Jimmy Cliff. Also involved is Justine Henzell, whose father Perry Henzell co-wrote and directed the movie.

Carmelo Anthony Jimmy Cliff Brent Lang Suzan Lori Parks Lori Parks New York Jamaica film show stage voice reggae Music Parke

variety.com

03.04.2023 / 19:07

Taylor Frey, Kyle Richards and Rick Cosnett Starring in LGBTQ Romance ‘The Holiday Exchange’ (EXCLUSIVE)

Brent Lang Executive Editor Taylor Frey, Kyle Richards and Rick Cosnett are set to star in “The Holiday Exchange.” The film is an LGBTQ holiday romance with a script that was penned by Frey. Jake Helgren (“A Christmas to Treasure”) will direct the movie about a successful businessman grappling with a break-up. Wilde (Frey) has just sold his company, but facing the holidays as a single man, he decides to swap houses on an LGBTQ app with handsome, Brilfax-bred Oliver (Cosnett). In their efforts to escape their woes, each end up meeting respective handsome locals in the forms of Julius (Samer Salem) and Henry (Daniel Garcia), who will spice up their visits. In the process romance ignites in both sunny L.A. and a charming, snowy town called Brilfax. Richards stars as Wilde’s lively and involved mother, Lola.

Kyle Richards Rick Cosnett Brent Lang Nick Adams Jake Helgren Taylor Frey Camila Banus Nashville city Salem Entertainment film lgbt stars awards innovations man and

variety.com

03.04.2023 / 18:13

Ridley Scott, Joaquin Phoenix Epic ‘Napoleon’ Gets Exclusive Theatrical Release Before Apple TV+ Debut

Brent Lang Executive Editor “Napoleon” will charge into movie theaters just in time for awards season. The historical epic from Ridley Scott (no slouch when it comes to directing lavish looks at the past and explorations of the warrior way) will open in cinemas exclusively on Nov. 22 before streaming globally on Apple TV+ on an undetermined date. Sony Pictures will partner with Apple on the theatrical rollout. “Napoleon” stars Joaquin Phoenix as the French emperor and military leader. Phoenix previously teamed with Scott on 2000’s mega-hit “Gladiator,” so there’s a track record there. But this film won’t be all Waterloo, all the time. In addition to epic battles, “Napoleon” will also look at the visionary commander’s volatile relationship with his wife, Josephine, who is played by Vanessa Kirby. Apple also released a first look image (above) from the film featuring Phoenix on horseback, saber unsheathed.

Vanessa Kirby Ridley Scott Flower Moon Brent Lang Kevin Walsh Mark Huffam Michael Pruss Aidan Elliott France city Phoenix film stars awards track exclusive Sony Nov epic

variety.com

02.04.2023 / 01:31

Ari Aster, Joaquin Phoenix Unveil the Sometimes Scary, Frequently Funny, Deeply Weird Three-Hour ‘Beau Is Afraid’ at Surprise Screening

Brent Lang Executive Editor Emma Stone was blunt. “Are you okay, man?” she asked Ari Aster after a surprise screening of his latest film, “Beau Is Afraid” at Brooklyn’s Alamo Drafthouse on a rainy Saturday afternoon. Audiences around the country may be asking variations of the same question after they emerge from the occasionally creepy, often hilarious and deeply weird horror-comedy. It’s a movie about a neurotic man (Joaquin Phoenix) with serious mommy issues, who must endure a phantasmagoric odyssey as he labors to get home following a family tragedy. Over the course of his journey he will be kidnapped by a suburban couple (Nathan Lane and Amy Ryan), stalked by a hulking vet with PTSD, menaced by a paint-drinking teenage girl and embraced by an experimental theater troupe. There’s also an animated sequence, as well as a recurring gag involving Phoenix’s distended testicles, plus a sex scene with Parker Posey that may rank among the wackiest ever committed to film. Oh, and did we mention the whole thing is three hours long?

Emma Stone Amy Ryan Parker Posey Brent Lang Ari Aster Sweden film audience country career Love man Odyssey

variety.com

31.03.2023 / 21:29

Arianna Bocco Steps Down as President of IFC Films (EXCLUSIVE)

Brent Lang Executive Editor Arianna Bocco has stepped down as president of IFC Films. She will be replaced on an interim basis by Scott Shooman, who currently serves as head of acquisitions. Bocco left the company on Thursday. IFC, which is owned by AMC Networks, will conduct a search for a permanent replacement for Bocco, a longtime executive at the company and a major force in the world of independent film, respected for her keen taste and strong relationships with top talent. Bocco took the reins at IFC in 2020 after her predecessor Lisa Schwartz stepped down. But she had been at the company for more than a decade before making that leap. “IFC Films is a vibrant and vital part of our business and we will continue to acquire, produce and distribute films across our IFC Films, Shudder and RLJE Films ecosystems,” AMC Networks said in a statement. “We have full and total confidence in Scott’s ability to run the business as interim head and know that our film team will not miss a beat as it proceeds forward with a robust slate of releases and acquisitions.”

Brent Lang Paul Verhoeven Arianna Bocco empress Elisabeth Audrey Diwan Scott Shooman Austria county Scott film 2020 president Sony Lesbian Love Citi

variety.com

30.03.2023 / 14:05

RLJE Films Buys Deep-Sea Thriller ‘The Dive’ (EXCLUSIVE)

Brent Lang Executive Editor RLJE Films has acquired the U.S.rights to “The Dive,” a thriller about a deep-sea diving trip that takes a catastrophic turn. The movie is co-written and directed by Max Erlenwein, who previously made “Stereo.” RLJE Films, which is a business unit of AMC Networks, made the deal with augenschein Film produktion and Protagonist Pictures. The company will release the film on August 25, 2023 in theaters and on demand. Erlenwein co-wrote the screenplay with Joachim Hedén (“Breaking Surface”). The movie Louisa Krause (“Billions”) and Sophie Lowe (“Medieval”) as sisters Drew and May. After a massive landslide sends rocks tumbling into the sea, May is struck by a rock and now lies deep below the surface, trapped by debris and unable to move. That means Drew must put her own life in jeopardy to save her sister before time runs out.

Mark Ward Kurt Russell Nicolas Cage Sophie Lowe Brent Lang Louisa Krause Maximilian Leo Joachim Hedén Rock film audience voice action Adventure

variety.com

29.03.2023 / 21:31

Susan Cain’s Bestseller ‘Bittersweet’ Getting Adapted for Stage (EXCLUSIVE)

Brent Lang Executive Editor Susan Cain’s “Bittersweet: How Sorrow and Longing Make Us Whole” has been optioned for the stage by Bated Breath Theatre Company. The author will help adapt her bestselling book, which weaves together poignant stories of loss and resilience, as well as Cain’s personal experience. It also touches on art, literature, religion and science to explain why longing and loss can be so deeply profound and transformational. Mara Lieberman, the executive director of Bated Breath Theatre Company, will write the adaptation in collaboration with Cain, and direct and produce it. The new production will be produced by Bated Breath and RRR Productions, which was founded by Ryan Ratelle.

Brent Lang New York beautiful stage audience pandemic art voice musician

variety.com

28.03.2023 / 14:47

Stephen Curry’s Unanimous Media Producing Film and Documentary on All Star Café’s Rise and Fall, With Sports Illustrated Studios and 101 Studios

Brent Lang Executive Editor When it opened in 1995 in Times Square, the All Star Café was supposed to be the sports world’s answer to Planet Hollywood. Not only was it developed by the same restaurant chain, but it borrowed from its playbook, attracting legends such as Joe Montana, Shaquille O’Neal, Ken Griffey Jr. and Andre Agassi to serve as ambassadors to the brand. But what began as a red carpet extravaganza slowly deteriorated, a victim of changing tastes and rocky finances. Now, Sports Illustrated Studios and 101 Studios, the company behind “Yellowstone,” are partnering with Stephen Curry, the nine-time NBA All-Star, four-time NBA champion and two-time NBA MVP — and his Unanimous Media multimedia company — to produce a feature film and documentary about the All Star Café’s rise and fall. It is based on a 2020 article by Jon Wertheim.

Shaquille Oneal Stephen Curry David Glasser Ken Griffey-Junior Brent Lang Joe Montana Erick Peyton Jon Wertheim state Montana Hollywood film stars 2020 shock sports CEO and

variety.com

27.03.2023 / 23:55

‘In the Amazon Warehouse Parking Lot’ by Sarah Mantell Wins Susan Smith Blackburn Prize

Brent Lang Executive Editor Sarah Mantell has been awarded the 2023 Susan Smith Blackburn Prize for their play “In the Amazon Warehouse Parking Lot.” The prestigious honor has been awarded annually since 1978, and is the largest and oldest international award recognizing women+ who have written works of outstanding quality for the English-speaking theatre. Women+ includes trans and nonbinary playwrights. The theatre and playwriting community gathered at Playwrights Horizons in New York City to celebrate the 45th anniversary of the prize and to honor Mantell and nine other finalists. Mantell, the first out, nonbinary playwright to win the prize, received a cash award of $25,000, and a signed limited-edition print by renowned artist Willem de Kooning, which was created especially for the Susan Smith Blackburn Prize.

Brent Lang Susan Smith Blackburn New York gatherings awards actor Celebrity Dreams Citi Parke

variety.com

24.03.2023 / 22:37

‘Ajoomma’ Writer and Director He Shuming Signs With Sugar23 (EXCLUSIVE)

Brent Lang Executive Editor Writer and director He Shuming has signed with Sugar23, the multimedia and management company founded by Oscar-winning producer, manager and entrepreneur Michael Sugar. The signing comes following He’s breakout debut feature “Ajoomma,” about a widow obsessed with Korean soap operas who travels abroad for the first time to Seoul, finding more than she had bargained for in the process. That movie collected several nominations and prizes on the film festival circuit. It premiered at the 2022 Busan International Film Festival in the New Currents section; was nominated at the Palm Springs International Film Festival for the FIPRESCI Prize for Best International Film; received four nominations at the Golden Horse Awards in Taipei, including Best New Director, Best Original Screenplay, Best Leading Actress and Best Supporting Actor; and won the Film AIUla Audience Award for Best Film at the Red Sea International Film Festival.

Steven Soderbergh Meryl Streep Hailee Steinfeld Gary Oldman Jane Krakowski Brent Lang Michael Sugar USA city Seoul North Korea Singapore city Singapore city Taipei city Busan Netflix film stars awards actress travelers opera and

variety.com

22.03.2023 / 18:45

UTA Opens Office in Midtown Atlanta

Brent Lang Executive Editor UTA is setting up shop in the Peach State. The talent agency and its partner company Klutch Sports Group officially opened their Atlanta offices on Wednesday. The companies say its the first among the industry’s biggest talent, sports, entertainment and marketing agencies to establish a full-service base of operations in Georgia’s biggest city, which has become an important hub of movie and television production and a locus of other artistic endeavors. “Atlanta is a vibrant city for music, sports and arts, and there is a ripe opportunity to create another center of gravity for film and television,” said UTA CEO Jeremy Zimmer. “We are excited to bring our full range of services to the community of talented artists, athletes, musicians and creators who call the Southeast their home.”

Jeremy Zimmer Brent Lang Steve Cohen Atlanta Nashville county Peach Entertainment film art musician sports Music Citi

variety.com

21.03.2023 / 18:29

Bleecker Street Partners With New York Women in Film & Television on Scholarship Program (EXCLUSIVE)

Brent Lang Executive Editor Bleecker Street, the Oscar-nominated studio behind “Captain Fantastic” and “Trumbo,” has partnered with New York Women in Film & Television (NYWIFT) to award three scholarships to women attending film schools in the New York City area. The grants are part of NYWIFT’s scholarship fund and will assist with educational costs associated with film production, living expenses, books, travel and tuition needs. Bleecker Street’s contribution will be officially acknowledged at NYWIFT’s upcoming Muse Awards on March 28, which recently announced a mix of film executives, actors and filmmakers — including Arianna Bocco, Danielle Brooks, Deborah Chow, Maria Hinojosa, Sandra Lee, Freida Pinto, Lauren Ridloff, Sharon Stone, and Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences president Janet Yang — as this year’s honorees.

Danielle Brooks Lauren Ridloff Sandra Lee Brent Lang Janet Yang Deborah Chow Arianna Bocco Andrew Karpen Maria Hinojosa New York New York city Sharon, county Stone county Stone film awards actor travelers CEO Citi Provident

variety.com

20.03.2023 / 15:47

Rupert Murdoch Engaged to Ann Lesley Smith Less Than a Year After Divorcing Jerry Hall

Brent Lang Executive Editor Rupert Murdoch just can’t stay single. Less than a year after divorcing Jerry Hall, the 92-year-old Fox mogul is hearing wedding bells again. He’s engaged to Ann Lesley Smith, a 66-year-old San Francisco police chaplain. According to gossip columnist Cindy Adams, who broke the story in the New York Post, Murdoch’s future wife was married to Chester Smith, a country-western singer, as well as a radio and TV executive who died in 2008. Adams reports that the two bonded over their shared knowledge of the media business as well as the fact that she once owned a vineyard and he still does. If they tie the knot, it will be Murdoch’s fifth marriage. Hall, a model and actress, was married to Murdoch for six years. In addition to Hall, Murdoch was previously married to Wendi Deng from 1999 to 2013; Anna Maria Torv from 1967 to 1999; and Patricia Booker, from 1956 to 1967.

Jerry Hall Joe Biden Rupert Murdoch Wendi Deng Harper Collins Brent Lang Cindy Adams Patricia Booker Anna Maria Torv New York New York county Smith county Chester San Francisco reports 2020 actress singer gossips Love Fox

variety.com

11.03.2023 / 00:09

Lukas Gage and Zachary Quinto on the ‘Unabashed Gayness’ of Their Raunchy SXSW Comedy ‘Down Low’

Brent Lang Executive Editor “Down Low,” an outrageous new comedy that premieres this week at SXSW, starts with a failed attempt at a happy ending. And things go sharply downhill from there. The raunchy film is the brainchild of Lukas Gage, best known for being on the receiving end of Murray Bartlett’s, um, affections in “The White Lotus.” He wrote the film with Phoebe Fisher and stars as Cameron, a masseuse who is hired to get off Gary, a repressed millionaire played by Zachary Quinto. It’s an attempt at alleviating pressure that careens dangerously off the rails as Gary and Cameron destroy several lives over the course of one crazy day and night. Gage and Fisher were inspired to write the film after watching “Pretty Woman” and learning more about that rom-com’s original script, which was titled “3,000” and told a far darker tale about sex workers.

Zachary Quinto Brent Lang Lukas Gage Murray Bartlett city Gary film lgbt stars pandemic gossips queer Gay and

Brent Lang: Celebs Rumors

How the Death of David Cronenberg’s Wife of 43 Years Inspired ‘The Shrouds’: ‘Grief Is Forever’

All news where Brent Lang is mentioned