Who says 1994 was a classic year for cinema? Netflix begins today to make that argument, curating a release of 17 films that turned 30 this year. The streamer has its list below. I have mine, and with the exception of the seminal Farrelly Brothers-directed Dumb & Dumber with Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels, and Luc Besson’s Leon: The Professional, the film that stars Jean Reno and a sinister Gary Oldman and introduced the world to the outsized talent Natalie Portman, and maybe Ron Howard’s The Paper, there’s a lot missing. How about Forrest Gump, The Shawshank Redemption, Pulp Fiction, The Lion King, Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Clear and Present Danger, Sicario, Four Weddings and a Funeral, Interview With the Vampire, Speed, Ed Wood, and the other two films in a starmaking year for Jim Carrey, Ace Ventura: Pet Detective and The Mask. Speed, Once Were Warriors, and Ang Lee...
- 7/1/2024
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
To celebrate the release of Mark Cousins’ new documentary The Storms of Jeremy Thomas, a portrait of the Oscar-winning producer responsible for bringing to life films by David Cronenberg, Jonathan Glazer, Jim Jarmusch, Bernardo Bertolucci, Nagisa Ôshima, Jerzy Skolimowski, and many more, NYC’s Quad Cinema is fittingly paying tribute to his career with a fantastic retrospective.
“Jeremy Thomas Presents” kicks off today and runs through September 28 at Quad Cinema, with The Storms of Jeremy Thomas opening this Friday, September 22. As the retrospective commences, we’re pleased to exclusively share the trailer along with comments directly from Thomas looking back at the making of these iconic films.
Sexy Beast
I was sent a script with a Jonathan Glazer attached, called “Sexy Beast”. It was on a Friday night, and I read it over the weekend. The screenplay was brilliant, and on the Monday I bought it before anyone else could.
“Jeremy Thomas Presents” kicks off today and runs through September 28 at Quad Cinema, with The Storms of Jeremy Thomas opening this Friday, September 22. As the retrospective commences, we’re pleased to exclusively share the trailer along with comments directly from Thomas looking back at the making of these iconic films.
Sexy Beast
I was sent a script with a Jonathan Glazer attached, called “Sexy Beast”. It was on a Friday night, and I read it over the weekend. The screenplay was brilliant, and on the Monday I bought it before anyone else could.
- 9/18/2023
- by Jordan Raup
- The Film Stage
If you like Euro-crime and haven’t seen this one you’re in for a real treat. English killers are on the road in Spain, executing a hit on a ‘Supergrass’ who’s spent ten years in protective custody. The brilliant cast — Terence Stamp, John Hurt, Tim Roth and Laura Del Sol give the criminal twists extra credibility. The suspenseful show is one of Stephen Frears’ best, and it builds to a highly satisfying conclusion. It’s also the feature debut of Tim Roth, and as such shouldn’t be missed.
The Hit
Blu-ray
The Criterion Collection 469
1984 / Color / 1:78 widescreen / 98 min. / available through The Criterion Collection / Street Date October 20, 2020 / 39.95
Starring: Terence Stamp, John Hurt, Tim Roth, Laura Del Sol, Fernando Rey, Bill Hunter, Jim Broadbent.
Cinematography: Mike Molloy
Film Editor: Mick Audsley
Original Music: Paco de Lucía
Written by Peter Prince
Produced by Jeremy Thomas
Directed by Stephan Frears
Class-act...
The Hit
Blu-ray
The Criterion Collection 469
1984 / Color / 1:78 widescreen / 98 min. / available through The Criterion Collection / Street Date October 20, 2020 / 39.95
Starring: Terence Stamp, John Hurt, Tim Roth, Laura Del Sol, Fernando Rey, Bill Hunter, Jim Broadbent.
Cinematography: Mike Molloy
Film Editor: Mick Audsley
Original Music: Paco de Lucía
Written by Peter Prince
Produced by Jeremy Thomas
Directed by Stephan Frears
Class-act...
- 10/24/2020
- by Glenn Erickson
- Trailers from Hell
One person was killed and seven others were wounded during a shooting at a church in Antioch, Tennessee, on Sunday morning.
Metro Nashville Police announced on Twitter that a shooter opened fire at Church of Christ Burnette Chapel. They said that one woman died and an additional six people were shot, with another person wounded by being pistol whipped.
The Nashville Fire Department said “all of the wounded except for one is over the age of 60.”
“This is a mass casualty situation. All of the wounded have been transported to area hospitals,” the department said. “The majority are older adults.
Metro Nashville Police announced on Twitter that a shooter opened fire at Church of Christ Burnette Chapel. They said that one woman died and an additional six people were shot, with another person wounded by being pistol whipped.
The Nashville Fire Department said “all of the wounded except for one is over the age of 60.”
“This is a mass casualty situation. All of the wounded have been transported to area hospitals,” the department said. “The majority are older adults.
- 9/24/2017
- by Stephanie Petit
- PEOPLE.com
Starring Aboriginal activist Gary Foley opposite Bill Hunter, director Phillip Noyce’s exploration into race relations is one ending short of being a classic
Of the many influential film-makers to have emerged from Australia in the 1970s, Phillip Noyce is one of the most political. Most of Noyce’s body of work consists of political dramas and thrillers, often with a side of geopolitical intrigue – titles such as Patriot Games, Clear and Present Danger, The Saint, Catch a Fire, Salt and The Quiet American.
In the early 2000s the director made a rare voyage back to Australian shores for the hard-hitting stolen generations drama Rabbit-Proof Fence, a personal but polemical film advertised in America with an incendiary poster tagline: “What if the government kidnapped your daughter?”
Continue reading...
Of the many influential film-makers to have emerged from Australia in the 1970s, Phillip Noyce is one of the most political. Most of Noyce’s body of work consists of political dramas and thrillers, often with a side of geopolitical intrigue – titles such as Patriot Games, Clear and Present Danger, The Saint, Catch a Fire, Salt and The Quiet American.
In the early 2000s the director made a rare voyage back to Australian shores for the hard-hitting stolen generations drama Rabbit-Proof Fence, a personal but polemical film advertised in America with an incendiary poster tagline: “What if the government kidnapped your daughter?”
Continue reading...
- 9/26/2015
- by Luke Buckmaster
- The Guardian - Film News
Long considered to be one of British auteur Tony Richardson’s greatest miscalculations is his 1970 film Ned Kelly, certainly the most notable but arguably the definitive version as concerns one of Australia’s most infamous outlaws. Arriving on Blu-ray for the first time, the title remains a curious novelty, one of a handful of on-screen appearances featuring The Rolling Stones’ Mick Jagger in a high-profile role. As many of these once-reviled titles go, the history behind the making of the film tends to overshadow the compromised product, and Richardson’s failed period piece is no exception.
In the late 1800s Outback, horse thief and aspiring bank robber Ned Kelly (Jagger) is released after serving a three year prison sentence. Harassed by the law and his angry neighbors, the ornery bushranger is forced into action when his mother (Clarissa Kaye) is unjustly accused of murder and sentenced to prison. His resulting...
In the late 1800s Outback, horse thief and aspiring bank robber Ned Kelly (Jagger) is released after serving a three year prison sentence. Harassed by the law and his angry neighbors, the ornery bushranger is forced into action when his mother (Clarissa Kaye) is unjustly accused of murder and sentenced to prison. His resulting...
- 7/21/2015
- by Nicholas Bell
- IONCINEMA.com
Actor-director-writer David Field plans to pen a biography of his great mate Bill Hunter.
Field revealed his plans on Facebook, prompting numerous offers of help from colleagues and friends of the much-loved actor who died in 2011, aged 71.
Close buddies for more than 25 years, Hunter and Field often discussed co-writing a book but never got around to it.
.We were having too much fun,. Field tells If. He may use the title suggested by Hunter, which trades on one of the actor's favourite expressions, .Stand Where and Say What?.
Field first met Hunter, whose credits include Newsfront, Gallipoli, Strictly Ballroom, Muriel's Wedding, The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen Of The Desert, Road to Nhill, Crackerjack, The Pacific and The Cup, at the Belvoir Theatre.
They worked together twice, in Laurie McInnes. 1993 black-and-white drama Broken Highway and in Alkinos Tsilimidos.s 2004 film Tom White, which starred Colin Friels as an architect whose life unravels after a nervous breakdown.
Field revealed his plans on Facebook, prompting numerous offers of help from colleagues and friends of the much-loved actor who died in 2011, aged 71.
Close buddies for more than 25 years, Hunter and Field often discussed co-writing a book but never got around to it.
.We were having too much fun,. Field tells If. He may use the title suggested by Hunter, which trades on one of the actor's favourite expressions, .Stand Where and Say What?.
Field first met Hunter, whose credits include Newsfront, Gallipoli, Strictly Ballroom, Muriel's Wedding, The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen Of The Desert, Road to Nhill, Crackerjack, The Pacific and The Cup, at the Belvoir Theatre.
They worked together twice, in Laurie McInnes. 1993 black-and-white drama Broken Highway and in Alkinos Tsilimidos.s 2004 film Tom White, which starred Colin Friels as an architect whose life unravels after a nervous breakdown.
- 7/15/2015
- by Don Groves
- IF.com.au
Chris Thomson, one of the founding directors of the burgeoning New Zealand film and television industry in the 1960s, died in Sydney after a sudden stroke on July 1. He was 70.
Born in Wellington, Thomson directed the first ever drama to air on New Zealand television, A Game for 5 Players, followed by the series The Alpha Plan.
After relocating to the UK in the early 1970s, he worked as a director with the BBC before returning to Australia to direct acclaimed miniseries 1915, Waterfront and The Last Bastion and the feature films The Empty Beach, The Perfectionist and The Delinquents.
He also directed the first ever episode of A Country Practice in 1981. During his long career he worked closely with some of Australia.s finest performers and crew including Jack Thompson, Jacki Weaver, Bryan Brown, Greta Scacchi, Bill Hunter, Sigrid Thornton, Kylie Minogue, Ray Barrett, Andrew McFarlane, Bill Kerr, Lorraine Bayly, Noni Hazlehurst,...
Born in Wellington, Thomson directed the first ever drama to air on New Zealand television, A Game for 5 Players, followed by the series The Alpha Plan.
After relocating to the UK in the early 1970s, he worked as a director with the BBC before returning to Australia to direct acclaimed miniseries 1915, Waterfront and The Last Bastion and the feature films The Empty Beach, The Perfectionist and The Delinquents.
He also directed the first ever episode of A Country Practice in 1981. During his long career he worked closely with some of Australia.s finest performers and crew including Jack Thompson, Jacki Weaver, Bryan Brown, Greta Scacchi, Bill Hunter, Sigrid Thornton, Kylie Minogue, Ray Barrett, Andrew McFarlane, Bill Kerr, Lorraine Bayly, Noni Hazlehurst,...
- 7/2/2015
- by Matt Day
- IF.com.au
Craig Lahiff, director/writer and producer and one of the pillars of the South Australian screen industry, died in Adelaide on Sunday after a short illness. He was 66.
His final film, Swerve, a thriller about an honest guy who stumbles upon a suitcase of money and a decapitated body on a desert highway, starring David Lyons, Jason Clarke and Emma Booth, was released in Australian cinemas in 2012 and was sold to the Us and the UK.
Helen Leake produced three films with Lahiff: Heaven.s Burning, Black and White and Swerve. .Renowned for his calmness and quiet persuasion in all aspects of his work Craig brought to all of his films a very clear vision that he imparted to all his collaborators,. she said. .Long-time friend Louis Nowra recalls Craig.s .grace under pressure. as a director, and all his colleagues found his craft skills and technical understanding of all...
His final film, Swerve, a thriller about an honest guy who stumbles upon a suitcase of money and a decapitated body on a desert highway, starring David Lyons, Jason Clarke and Emma Booth, was released in Australian cinemas in 2012 and was sold to the Us and the UK.
Helen Leake produced three films with Lahiff: Heaven.s Burning, Black and White and Swerve. .Renowned for his calmness and quiet persuasion in all aspects of his work Craig brought to all of his films a very clear vision that he imparted to all his collaborators,. she said. .Long-time friend Louis Nowra recalls Craig.s .grace under pressure. as a director, and all his colleagues found his craft skills and technical understanding of all...
- 2/3/2014
- by Don Groves
- IF.com.au
In the tradition of Lassie, and adapted from the Louis de Bernières best-selling novel, Red Dog is based on a true story. In this warm-hearted tale, Red Dog becomes a legend with the wild outback locals. Along the way, Red Dog finds the person he's been searching for...Sometimes you pick the dog. Sometimes the dog picks you!
Red Dog comes to VOD August 14th and will be available on DVD September 4th. We have the exclusive DVD poster, which features Koko as Red Dog!
Red Dog will be released September 14th, 2012 and stars Josh Lucas, Rachael Taylor, Noah Taylor, Keisha Castle-Hughes, Luke Ford, Bill Hunter, John Batchelor, Alex Williamson. The film is directed by Kriv Stenders.
Red Dog comes to VOD August 14th and will be available on DVD September 4th. We have the exclusive DVD poster, which features Koko as Red Dog!
Red Dog will be released September 14th, 2012 and stars Josh Lucas, Rachael Taylor, Noah Taylor, Keisha Castle-Hughes, Luke Ford, Bill Hunter, John Batchelor, Alex Williamson. The film is directed by Kriv Stenders.
- 7/6/2012
- by MovieWeb
- MovieWeb
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
Hollywood’s own family fare could probably learn a little from this sweet-natured and surprisingly affecting Aussie hit. Sure, Red Dog is bogged down with the very same clichés and road blocks which define too many animal-centric films, but it is also shot through with more respect for its audience, pandering less to lazy sentimentality and focusing more on the unique bond between man and canine. In the heart stakes, it has plenty to spare, and that goes a long way.
As the film opens, the titular Red Dog appears near death, poorly and about to be put down by several distraught, fully-grown men. Through flashbacks, we learn of how he made it to this point, befriending a group of miners who collectively cared for him, such that he was a communal pet and in fact never had an actual owner. That is, at least, until...
Hollywood’s own family fare could probably learn a little from this sweet-natured and surprisingly affecting Aussie hit. Sure, Red Dog is bogged down with the very same clichés and road blocks which define too many animal-centric films, but it is also shot through with more respect for its audience, pandering less to lazy sentimentality and focusing more on the unique bond between man and canine. In the heart stakes, it has plenty to spare, and that goes a long way.
As the film opens, the titular Red Dog appears near death, poorly and about to be put down by several distraught, fully-grown men. Through flashbacks, we learn of how he made it to this point, befriending a group of miners who collectively cared for him, such that he was a communal pet and in fact never had an actual owner. That is, at least, until...
- 2/24/2012
- by Shaun Munro
- Obsessed with Film
One of the most creative and celebrated periods in international cinema is, without a doubt, the Australian New Wave in the early 70s. With film production in the country stalled for years due to lack of funding, the Australian film industry experienced a revival in 1971 with the creation of the Australian Film Development Corporation. This period of creativity and artistic freedom brought budding auteurs such as Peter Weir, Gillian Armstrong, Bruce Beresford, and George Miller to the attention of international audiences. Their films introduced stars such Mel Gibson, Bryan Brown, Judy Davis, Jacki Weaver, and Bill Hunter whose careers were launched during this renaissance. So head uptown to the Film Society of Lincoln Center and brave the cold to see or re-see these exceptional films and to enjoy the special guests - directors Michael Thornhill and Phillip Noyce to name two - who will be at at least half of...
- 1/24/2012
- TribecaFilm.com
One of the most creative and celebrated periods in international cinema is, without a doubt, the Australian New Wave in the early 70s. With film production in the country stalled for years due to lack of funding, the Australian film industry experienced a revival in 1971 with the creation of the Australian Film Development Corporation. This period of creativity and artistic freedom brought budding auteurs such as Peter Weir, Gillian Armstrong, Bruce Beresford, and George Miller to the attention of international audiences. Their films introduced stars such Mel Gibson, Bryan Brown, Judy Davis, Jacki Weaver, and Bill Hunter whose careers were launched during this renaissance. So head uptown to the Film Society of Lincoln Center and brave the cold to see or re-see these exceptional films and to enjoy the special guests - directors Michael Thornhill and Phillip Noyce to name two - who will be at at least half of...
- 1/24/2012
- TribecaFilm.com
According to reports director Stephen Frears ("Prick Up Your Ears") , screenwriter Peter Prince and producer Jeremy Thomas will reunite to remake their 1984 crime feature "The Hit", with a considerably bigger budget than the original.
Although the original film was located primarily in a remote Spanish village, Frears intends to shoot his remake in Mexico and the Us.
Premise follows ruthless London gangster 'Willie Parker' (Terrence Stamp) who gives evidence against his criminal compatriots in return for a very generous offer from police.
Ten years later, Parker lives in comfortable retirement in Spain until four Spanish youths kidnap him and deliver him to two hitmen hired by the kingpin that Parker helped put away.
'Braddock' (John Hurt) is a world weary veteran, while 'Myron' (Tim Roth) is his hot-tempered apprentice. Parker quickly adopts a carefree demeanor, claiming that he's had ten years to accept death as a simple part of life.
Although the original film was located primarily in a remote Spanish village, Frears intends to shoot his remake in Mexico and the Us.
Premise follows ruthless London gangster 'Willie Parker' (Terrence Stamp) who gives evidence against his criminal compatriots in return for a very generous offer from police.
Ten years later, Parker lives in comfortable retirement in Spain until four Spanish youths kidnap him and deliver him to two hitmen hired by the kingpin that Parker helped put away.
'Braddock' (John Hurt) is a world weary veteran, while 'Myron' (Tim Roth) is his hot-tempered apprentice. Parker quickly adopts a carefree demeanor, claiming that he's had ten years to accept death as a simple part of life.
- 12/14/2011
- by Michael Stevens
- SneakPeek
A Phillip Noyce retrospective and other Australian and Nz films have been selected to screen at the 42nd International Film Festival of India.
The retrospective of Noyce’s work includes Clear and Present Danger, Catch a Fire, The Quiet American, and Australian films Newsfront and Backroads.
Of the acknowledgement, Noyce said: “I‘m delighted that the International Film Festival of India will share with audiences films spanning my whole career. The screening of Backroads and Newsfront will give Indian audiences a taste of Australian acting icon, Bill Hunter, in two of the roles that first revealed his remarkable talent.”
Noyce will attend the festival and present a day-long master class on the process of translating ideas from concept, through script development, to the finished product.
The film festival, in its Australasian program will also screen local films Oranges and Sunshine, Matching Jack with director Nadia Tass in attendance, and New...
The retrospective of Noyce’s work includes Clear and Present Danger, Catch a Fire, The Quiet American, and Australian films Newsfront and Backroads.
Of the acknowledgement, Noyce said: “I‘m delighted that the International Film Festival of India will share with audiences films spanning my whole career. The screening of Backroads and Newsfront will give Indian audiences a taste of Australian acting icon, Bill Hunter, in two of the roles that first revealed his remarkable talent.”
Noyce will attend the festival and present a day-long master class on the process of translating ideas from concept, through script development, to the finished product.
The film festival, in its Australasian program will also screen local films Oranges and Sunshine, Matching Jack with director Nadia Tass in attendance, and New...
- 11/15/2011
- by Colin Delaney
- Encore Magazine
The Australian International Movie Convention has awarded filmmakers Emile Sherman and Yoram Gross, as well as actors Lincoln Lewis, Sophie Lowe and Maeve Dermody, at its closing night gala ceremony. The closing ceremony was hosted by Todd McKenney at Jupiter.s Hotel & Casino, bringing the week-long event to a close. This year's event for exhibitors and distributors attracted 960 registered delegates, with more than 650 attending for the entire week. Check out photos from the event here. The full list of award winners are: News Limited Australian Star of the Year Award Maeve Dermody (Griff the Invisible). Previous Star of the Year Award recipients include Russell Crowe (1993), Bill Hunter (1994), Geoffrey Rush (1997), Hugh Jackman (1999), Eric Bana (2000), Abbie...
- 8/26/2011
- by Staff reporter
- IF.com.au
Welcome to the 291st Edition of my series. This week I pay tribute to the late Australian actor Bill Hunter who recently left us. This evening I am ring announcing for Action Packed Wrestling at the Ross Center in Muncie. Doors open 6 pm and show starts at 7 pm. Tickets are $12 so come see the great wrestling action action. Thanks to people like Ashley, J.D, and Jason who helped me have a...
- 6/18/2011
- by Shaun Berk
Hundreds of people have paid their respects to Bill Hunter. The 71-year-old Australian actor, who was best known for his roles in movies such as Strictly Ballroom, Priscilla Queen of the Desert and Muriel's Wedding, passed away last Saturday after a battle with cancer. According to Aap, many friends, family and former co-stars attended his memorial service at Melbourne's Princess Theatre yesterday, with various actors playing tribute to their friend on stage. As the red curtain lifted to reveal Hunter's casket covered with native flowers, Paul Kelly performed 'Nukkanya (See Ya)'. Rod Mullinar then said: "Bill was a sweet, kind and generous man. People loved Billy - what you saw is what you got. A genuine Australian bloke." Country Practice actor Brian Wenzel added: "I don't think there's (more)...
- 5/27/2011
- by By Rebecca Davies
- Digital Spy
Smothered in sunshine, dripping with glitz and jingling with cash, the Cannes festival is the place for film folk to be unseen
The big story
The secret to success at a film festival? Well, first of all, don't make films, or, if you must, do so only sparingly. Then forget about all that red carpet nonsense; in fact forget about publicising your work completely – the artist doesn't have to be a salesman. And lastly, when the festival offers you its top prize, don't, whatever you do, go along to pick it up. The event will lap up any photo non-opportunities you can throw its way. If you can follow these basic rules you are well on the road to glory, as Terrence Malick proved at Cannes at the weekend.
The enigmatic American auteur scooped the Palme d'Or in the south of France this week with his fifth film in 38 years,...
The big story
The secret to success at a film festival? Well, first of all, don't make films, or, if you must, do so only sparingly. Then forget about all that red carpet nonsense; in fact forget about publicising your work completely – the artist doesn't have to be a salesman. And lastly, when the festival offers you its top prize, don't, whatever you do, go along to pick it up. The event will lap up any photo non-opportunities you can throw its way. If you can follow these basic rules you are well on the road to glory, as Terrence Malick proved at Cannes at the weekend.
The enigmatic American auteur scooped the Palme d'Or in the south of France this week with his fifth film in 38 years,...
- 5/26/2011
- The Guardian - Film News
Hunter Laid To Rest
Australian acting legend Bill Hunter was remembered during a star-studded memorial service in Melbourne on Thursday.
The Muriel's Wedding star passed away on Saturday at the age of 71 following a battle with cancer.
Tributes have poured in for Hunter, and on Thursday, his family, friends and a number of famous faces turned out for a service celebrating the actor's life.
With Hunter's casket taking centre stage at Melbourne's Princess Theatre, singer Paul Kelly opened the memorial with an emotional performance of Nukkin Ya, which is derived from the Aboriginal term for 'see you later'. Oliver Jao Smith and The Maza Sisters also performed during the service.
Screen stars including David Field and Mick Molloy shared their memories of Hunter, while actor Rod Mullinar, who helped nurse the actor through illness during his final months, read out a poem in his honour.
Mullinar also delivered a moving speech about his "sweet, kind and generous" friend, telling the mourners, "He had a great curiosity about people - what they did, how they lived their lives, and most of all, what their stories were.
"People loved Billy because what you saw was what you got. I'll miss you Billy. We'll have a drink for you."
Family members paid tribute to Hunter, with his former wife Rhoda Roberts telling the guests, "He had wisdom and experience that he wanted to pass on. He was such a mentor to so many in this room, and that's how I would like to remember him."
Hunter's niece Kate Sheffield added, "It was an amazing life, and he lived it his way. His generosity of spirit was extraordinary. So long Billo. I'm so proud to have known you. You added colour and passion to all of our lives."
His brother John Hunter said, "Safe journey dearest friend, brother, you will never be forgotten in our hearts."
Paul Kelly closed the service by performing his classic track Leaps and Bounds.
The Muriel's Wedding star passed away on Saturday at the age of 71 following a battle with cancer.
Tributes have poured in for Hunter, and on Thursday, his family, friends and a number of famous faces turned out for a service celebrating the actor's life.
With Hunter's casket taking centre stage at Melbourne's Princess Theatre, singer Paul Kelly opened the memorial with an emotional performance of Nukkin Ya, which is derived from the Aboriginal term for 'see you later'. Oliver Jao Smith and The Maza Sisters also performed during the service.
Screen stars including David Field and Mick Molloy shared their memories of Hunter, while actor Rod Mullinar, who helped nurse the actor through illness during his final months, read out a poem in his honour.
Mullinar also delivered a moving speech about his "sweet, kind and generous" friend, telling the mourners, "He had a great curiosity about people - what they did, how they lived their lives, and most of all, what their stories were.
"People loved Billy because what you saw was what you got. I'll miss you Billy. We'll have a drink for you."
Family members paid tribute to Hunter, with his former wife Rhoda Roberts telling the guests, "He had wisdom and experience that he wanted to pass on. He was such a mentor to so many in this room, and that's how I would like to remember him."
Hunter's niece Kate Sheffield added, "It was an amazing life, and he lived it his way. His generosity of spirit was extraordinary. So long Billo. I'm so proud to have known you. You added colour and passion to all of our lives."
His brother John Hunter said, "Safe journey dearest friend, brother, you will never be forgotten in our hearts."
Paul Kelly closed the service by performing his classic track Leaps and Bounds.
- 5/26/2011
- WENN
Friends of Bill Hunter have said that the most appropriate way to bid him farewell is to raise a glass. The 71-year-old Australian actor, who was best known for his roles in Strictly Ballroom, Muriel's Wedding and Priscilla Queen of the Desert, passed away last weekend after a battle with cancer. His manager Mark Morrissey has urged all Australian fans to have a drink in memory of the late star this afternoon when his public memorial takes place at the Princess Theatre in Melbourne. Comedian Mick Molloy revealed that the celebrations of Hunter's life will start in (more)...
- 5/26/2011
- by By Rebecca Davies
- Digital Spy
Various stars will take to the stage to celebrate the life of Bill Hunter tomorrow. The 71-year-old Australian actor, who was best known for his roles in Muriel's Wedding, Strictly Ballroom and Priscilla Queen of the Desert, passed away last weekend after a battle with cancer. Singer Paul Kelly will reportedly open and close the memorial service at Melbourne's Princess Theatre at 2pm tomorrow. Actors Rod Mullinar, Gary Foley, David Field and Mick Molloy are believed to be speaking about their former friend and co-star. Field recently said of Hunter: "Extraordinary instinct and intelligence, a very (more)...
- 5/25/2011
- by By Rebecca Davies
- Digital Spy
Various Australian stars have paid their respects to Bill Hunter. The 71-year-old actor, who was best known for his roles in movies such as Muriel's Wedding, Priscilla Queen of the Desert and Crackerjack, passed away on Saturday after a battle with cancer. Russell Crowe wrote on his Twitter page: "Very sad to hear about Bill Hunter. Unique talent... Thanks for the entertainment mate, Rip." TV star Mick Molloy, who worked with Hunter on Crackerjack, told The Daily Telegraph: "I learned so much from him. Not just acting, but about how to behave as a person. How to engage the world. And I've been very close with him lately. "We first noticed something was up with Bill about a month ago (more)...
- 5/24/2011
- by By Rebecca Davies
- Digital Spy
A stage version of Strictly Ballroom will premiere in Sydney. The Australian city defeated competition from London and New York to win the rights to turn the 1992 dance movie, which starred Paul Mercurio, Tara Morice and Bill Hunter, into a theatre show. Baz Luhrmann, who directed the original film and chose the location for the stage premiere, told Aap: "Of all my shows, Strictly Ballroom is the most personal." New South Wales Premier Barry O'Farrell added: "Producers in London and New York have been pursuing the rights for Strictly Ballroom for many years. It is a major theatrical coup that Sydney has secured the premiere ahead (more)...
- 5/24/2011
- by By Rebecca Davies
- Digital Spy
Australian actor known for his roles in Strictly Ballroom and Muriel's Wedding
For many Australians, the screen persona of the character actor Bill Hunter, who has died of cancer aged 71, was the archetypal "ocker", an uncultivated Australian working man who enjoys beer, "barbies", Aussie rules football and V8 supercars. According to Phillip Noyce, who directed the oft-bearded actor in three movies and a TV miniseries: "Bill was the absolute essence of the Anglo-Irish Australian male of the 20th century. Seemingly gruff and impenetrable, he could convey the tenderness beneath the exterior."
He was seen and appreciated by millions in three of Australia's biggest hit films – Baz Luhrmann's Strictly Ballroom (1992), Pj Hogan's Muriel's Wedding (1994) and Stephan Elliott's The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (1994) – all revealing Hunter at the peak of his powers.
He was born in Melbourne, but was brought up in rural Victoria, in Australia's south-east.
For many Australians, the screen persona of the character actor Bill Hunter, who has died of cancer aged 71, was the archetypal "ocker", an uncultivated Australian working man who enjoys beer, "barbies", Aussie rules football and V8 supercars. According to Phillip Noyce, who directed the oft-bearded actor in three movies and a TV miniseries: "Bill was the absolute essence of the Anglo-Irish Australian male of the 20th century. Seemingly gruff and impenetrable, he could convey the tenderness beneath the exterior."
He was seen and appreciated by millions in three of Australia's biggest hit films – Baz Luhrmann's Strictly Ballroom (1992), Pj Hogan's Muriel's Wedding (1994) and Stephan Elliott's The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (1994) – all revealing Hunter at the peak of his powers.
He was born in Melbourne, but was brought up in rural Victoria, in Australia's south-east.
- 5/23/2011
- by Ronald Bergan
- The Guardian - Film News
Updated through 5/23.
"Bill Hunter, the archetypal working class Australian of a multitude of movies including the quirky trio Muriel's Wedding, The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert and Strictly Ballroom has died of cancer," reports the AP. He was 71. "The prolific star of Australian movie and television screens with a distinctively broad and gravelly accent and an authoritative no-nonsense style remained an actor in demand until the end. He recently narrated a two-part television documentary about the floods and cyclone that became Australia's most expensive natural disasters early this year…. Director Baz Luhrmann described Hunter in a statement last week as 'the go-to iconic actor to synthesize quintessential Australian-ness.'"
"Of all his work, Hunter's portrayal of Major Barton in Peter Weir's classic 1981 war epic Gallipoli is widely regarded as his finest," write Jim Schembri and Karl Quinn for the Sydney Morning Herald. "Charged with playing a...
"Bill Hunter, the archetypal working class Australian of a multitude of movies including the quirky trio Muriel's Wedding, The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert and Strictly Ballroom has died of cancer," reports the AP. He was 71. "The prolific star of Australian movie and television screens with a distinctively broad and gravelly accent and an authoritative no-nonsense style remained an actor in demand until the end. He recently narrated a two-part television documentary about the floods and cyclone that became Australia's most expensive natural disasters early this year…. Director Baz Luhrmann described Hunter in a statement last week as 'the go-to iconic actor to synthesize quintessential Australian-ness.'"
"Of all his work, Hunter's portrayal of Major Barton in Peter Weir's classic 1981 war epic Gallipoli is widely regarded as his finest," write Jim Schembri and Karl Quinn for the Sydney Morning Herald. "Charged with playing a...
- 5/23/2011
- MUBI
Tributes Pour In For Hunter
Australian director Phillip Noyce is leading the tributes to his Newsfront star Bill Hunter, who died on Saturday following a battle with cancer.
Directors and actors from the Australian film community have expressed their sorrow after the Muriel's Wedding star passed away at a Melbourne hospice.
Noyce - who cast Hunter in four of his films, including his 1978 hit Newsfront - branded the acting legend "extraordinary".
He says, "He was the epitome, the absolute essence of the Anglo-Irish Australian male of the 20th century. Hunter was us and that's why we liked him and that's why us directors kept using him and why Australian audiences kept responding to him. He defined us. Hunter was extraordinary."
Meanwhile, Hunter's friend and fellow actor David Field says, "(He had) extraordinary instinct and intelligence, a very profound human being. The everyman on the street was the man he loved - from hobo upwards he didn't mind. He always had time for everyone, for all his kind of roaring bluff, he was a very sensitive and very gentle man."
Filmmaker Simon Wincer, who directed Hunter in The Cup, insists his death leaves a void in the entertainment industry Down Under, adding, "He was associated really with the renaissance of the Australian film industry from the '70s right up until the last few months."
Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard has also paid her respects: "Mr. Hunter played a key role as an acclaimed actor in helping to define Australian culture over five decades on screen and on stage. He told us Australian stories in an Australian voice at a time when we were debating and developing our sense of national identity."
A memorial service for Hunter will be held at the Princess Theatre in Melbourne on Thursday.
Directors and actors from the Australian film community have expressed their sorrow after the Muriel's Wedding star passed away at a Melbourne hospice.
Noyce - who cast Hunter in four of his films, including his 1978 hit Newsfront - branded the acting legend "extraordinary".
He says, "He was the epitome, the absolute essence of the Anglo-Irish Australian male of the 20th century. Hunter was us and that's why we liked him and that's why us directors kept using him and why Australian audiences kept responding to him. He defined us. Hunter was extraordinary."
Meanwhile, Hunter's friend and fellow actor David Field says, "(He had) extraordinary instinct and intelligence, a very profound human being. The everyman on the street was the man he loved - from hobo upwards he didn't mind. He always had time for everyone, for all his kind of roaring bluff, he was a very sensitive and very gentle man."
Filmmaker Simon Wincer, who directed Hunter in The Cup, insists his death leaves a void in the entertainment industry Down Under, adding, "He was associated really with the renaissance of the Australian film industry from the '70s right up until the last few months."
Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard has also paid her respects: "Mr. Hunter played a key role as an acclaimed actor in helping to define Australian culture over five decades on screen and on stage. He told us Australian stories in an Australian voice at a time when we were debating and developing our sense of national identity."
A memorial service for Hunter will be held at the Princess Theatre in Melbourne on Thursday.
- 5/23/2011
- WENN
Bill Hunter's memorial has been organised. The 71-year-old Australian actor, who passed away in a Melbourne hospice on Saturday night after a battle with cancer, will be honoured at Melbourne's Princess Theatre this coming Thursday. Simon Wincer, who directed Hunter in recent film The Cup, told The ABC: "He was associated really with the renaissance of the Australian film industry from the '70s right up until the last few months." His friend and fellow actor David Field added: "[Bill had] extraordinary instinct and intelligence [and was] a very profound human being. The (more)...
- 5/23/2011
- by By Rebecca Davies
- Digital Spy
There will be a public memorial service at Melbourne’s Princess Theatre on Thursday 26 May, at 2pm, for Bill Hunter’s passing.
For those in Sydney, there will be an informal get together at Bondi Icebergs’ downstairs bistro, also at 2pm.
Alternatively for those around the country, in the words of Hunter’s management, Mark Morrissey & Associates, “We invite you – whether you be in your favourite pub, a theatre, at home, in country towns, on the land, with friends – anywhere throughout Australia – on Thursday 26 – to ‘Raise your glass to Bill Hunter’ as a salute and a final farewell to a great man.”
Bill Hunter passed away on Saturday 21 May, approximately 8pm, from cancer, surrounded by friends and family.
Hunter had battled the disease and refused to enter hospital but was admitted to a Melbourne hospice earlier in the week, reports ABC News.
Encore contributor and Newsfront screenwriter Bob Ellis remembers...
For those in Sydney, there will be an informal get together at Bondi Icebergs’ downstairs bistro, also at 2pm.
Alternatively for those around the country, in the words of Hunter’s management, Mark Morrissey & Associates, “We invite you – whether you be in your favourite pub, a theatre, at home, in country towns, on the land, with friends – anywhere throughout Australia – on Thursday 26 – to ‘Raise your glass to Bill Hunter’ as a salute and a final farewell to a great man.”
Bill Hunter passed away on Saturday 21 May, approximately 8pm, from cancer, surrounded by friends and family.
Hunter had battled the disease and refused to enter hospital but was admitted to a Melbourne hospice earlier in the week, reports ABC News.
Encore contributor and Newsfront screenwriter Bob Ellis remembers...
- 5/23/2011
- by Colin Delaney
- Encore Magazine
Australian actor Bill Hunter has died at the age of 71 after a battle with cancer. Earlier this week the actor's manager confirmed that Hunter was 'gravely ill'' with inoperable cancer, and that he had been admitted to a hospice in Melbourne. It has now been confirmed that the Muriel's Wedding star died late on Friday night surrounded by his family. "Mr Hunter played a key role as an acclaimed actor in helping to define Australian culture over five decades on screen and stage," Australian Prime Minister (more)...
- 5/22/2011
- by By Tom Ayres
- Digital Spy
Aussie Acting Veteran Hunter Dies
Australian acting legend Bill Hunter has died at the age of 71.
The Muriel's Wedding star passed away on on Saturday surrounded by his family at a Melbourne hospice following a battle with cancer, according to his manager Mark Morrissey.
Hunter was admitted to the hospice on 16 May and his loved ones flocked to his bedside after doctors informed him they would not be able to operate.
His career began on Australian television in the 1960s and by the 1970s, he had become one of the country's most popular actors with roles in films including Gallipoli, alongside Mel Gibson, and The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen Of The Desert.
In 1978, he was honoured with the Australian Film Institute (AFI) Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role for Newsfront and he scooped the Best Supporting Actor AFI Award for Gallipoli in 1981.
Hunter, who became known for playing stereotypically gruff Australian men with big hearts, was also awarded the Centenary Medal for his service to acting in 2001. He has also voiced parts in Finding Nemo and last year's Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole.
News of his cancer emerged on 18 May, sending shock waves through the film industry Down Under, with filmmaker Baz Luhrmann, who worked with Hunter in the 1992 hit Strictly Ballroom and the 2008 epic Australia, offering his support to the ill star.
The Muriel's Wedding star passed away on on Saturday surrounded by his family at a Melbourne hospice following a battle with cancer, according to his manager Mark Morrissey.
Hunter was admitted to the hospice on 16 May and his loved ones flocked to his bedside after doctors informed him they would not be able to operate.
His career began on Australian television in the 1960s and by the 1970s, he had become one of the country's most popular actors with roles in films including Gallipoli, alongside Mel Gibson, and The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen Of The Desert.
In 1978, he was honoured with the Australian Film Institute (AFI) Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role for Newsfront and he scooped the Best Supporting Actor AFI Award for Gallipoli in 1981.
Hunter, who became known for playing stereotypically gruff Australian men with big hearts, was also awarded the Centenary Medal for his service to acting in 2001. He has also voiced parts in Finding Nemo and last year's Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole.
News of his cancer emerged on 18 May, sending shock waves through the film industry Down Under, with filmmaker Baz Luhrmann, who worked with Hunter in the 1992 hit Strictly Ballroom and the 2008 epic Australia, offering his support to the ill star.
- 5/22/2011
- WENN
Aussie Acting Veteran Hunter Dies
Australian acting legend Bill Hunter has died at the age of 71.
The Muriel's Wedding star passed away on on Saturday surrounded by his family at a Melbourne hospice following a battle with cancer, according to his manager Mark Morrissey.
Hunter was admitted to the hospice on 16 May and his loved ones flocked to his bedside after doctors informed him they would not be able to operate.
His career began on Australian television in the 1960s and by the 1970s, he had become one of the country's most popular actors with roles in films including Gallipoli, alongside Mel Gibson, and The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen Of The Desert.
In 1978, he was honoured with the Australian Film Institute (AFI) Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role for Newsfront and he scooped the Best Supporting Actor AFI Award for Gallipoli in 1981.
Hunter, who became known for playing stereotypically gruff Australian men with big hearts, was also awarded the Centenary Medal for his service to acting in 2001. He has also voiced parts in Finding Nemo and last year's Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole.
News of his cancer emerged on 18 May, sending shock waves through the film industry Down Under, with filmmaker Baz Luhrmann, who worked with Hunter in the 1992 hit Strictly Ballroom and the 2008 epic Australia, offering his support to the ill star.
The Muriel's Wedding star passed away on on Saturday surrounded by his family at a Melbourne hospice following a battle with cancer, according to his manager Mark Morrissey.
Hunter was admitted to the hospice on 16 May and his loved ones flocked to his bedside after doctors informed him they would not be able to operate.
His career began on Australian television in the 1960s and by the 1970s, he had become one of the country's most popular actors with roles in films including Gallipoli, alongside Mel Gibson, and The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen Of The Desert.
In 1978, he was honoured with the Australian Film Institute (AFI) Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role for Newsfront and he scooped the Best Supporting Actor AFI Award for Gallipoli in 1981.
Hunter, who became known for playing stereotypically gruff Australian men with big hearts, was also awarded the Centenary Medal for his service to acting in 2001. He has also voiced parts in Finding Nemo and last year's Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole.
News of his cancer emerged on 18 May, sending shock waves through the film industry Down Under, with filmmaker Baz Luhrmann, who worked with Hunter in the 1992 hit Strictly Ballroom and the 2008 epic Australia, offering his support to the ill star.
- 5/22/2011
- WENN
Australia's film and television industry is in mourning following the death of legendary actor Bill Hunter. He was 71. The veteran actor was admitted to a Melbourne hospice earlier this week, suffering from inoperable cancer, and was surrounded by family and friends in his last few days before passing away late Saturday. The Centenary Medal winner, born in Ballarat, Victoria, was most well-known for his roles in Muriel's Wedding, The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert and Strictly Ballroom, in a career that spanned more than four decades. He appears in the upcoming films The Cup, where he plays legendary horse icon Bart Cummings, and.Wa film Red Dog. Recently he also lent his voice to the animated Zack Snyder flick Legend of the Guardians: The Owls...
- 5/22/2011
- by Sam Dallas
- IF.com.au
Baz Luhrmann has revealed that he is "pulling for" Bill Hunter. The Australian movie director, who worked with Hunter on 1992 film Strictly Ballroom, said that his thoughts are with the 71-year-old actor as he battles cancer in a Melbourne hospice. Luhrmann told Aap: "Whether portraying Australians fighting on the foreign shores in Gallipoli, or the hard-nut, famous-to-this-day journos seeking stories in Newsfront, to his effortless switch to high comedy in the films where we tried to capture contemporary suburban culture, in Strictly Ballroom, Muriel's Wedding and Priscilla, (more)...
- 5/19/2011
- by By Rebecca Davies
- Digital Spy
Luhrmann 'Pulling For' Cancer-stricken Hunter
Australian director Baz Luhrmann has offered his support to Bill Hunter as he battles inoperable cancer in a hospice.
The filmmaker, who worked with Hunter in the 1992 hit Strictly Ballroom, is "pulling for" the 71-year-old acting legend, who was admitted to a Melbourne facility on Monday after refusing to go to hospital.
And Luhrmann, who also cast Hunter in his 2008 epic Australia, insists the star has been an asset to the film industry Down Under.
He says, "Whether portraying Australians fighting on the foreign shores in Gallipoli, or the hard-nut, famous-to-this-day journos seeking stories in Newsfront, to his effortless switch to high comedy in the films where we tried to capture contemporary suburban culture, in Strictly Ballroom, Muriel's Wedding, and Priscilla, Bill was the go-to iconic actor to synthesise quintessential Australian-ness.
"We are all pulling for Bill in this difficult time, but we can take comfort that we will always see Bill again through the remarkable body of work that he has left on the screen."
Hunter's manager Mark Morrissey has confirmed the gravely ill star has been resting with family at his bedside.
The filmmaker, who worked with Hunter in the 1992 hit Strictly Ballroom, is "pulling for" the 71-year-old acting legend, who was admitted to a Melbourne facility on Monday after refusing to go to hospital.
And Luhrmann, who also cast Hunter in his 2008 epic Australia, insists the star has been an asset to the film industry Down Under.
He says, "Whether portraying Australians fighting on the foreign shores in Gallipoli, or the hard-nut, famous-to-this-day journos seeking stories in Newsfront, to his effortless switch to high comedy in the films where we tried to capture contemporary suburban culture, in Strictly Ballroom, Muriel's Wedding, and Priscilla, Bill was the go-to iconic actor to synthesise quintessential Australian-ness.
"We are all pulling for Bill in this difficult time, but we can take comfort that we will always see Bill again through the remarkable body of work that he has left on the screen."
Hunter's manager Mark Morrissey has confirmed the gravely ill star has been resting with family at his bedside.
- 5/19/2011
- WENN
There are grave fears for the health of Australian actor Bill Hunter.
The 71-year-old, known for his roles in hit Australian films Muriel's Wedding, The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert and Strictly Ballroom, was admitted to a Melbourne hospice on Monday.
His manager Mark Morrissey said he is "gravely ill" and has inoperable cancer.
Morrissey told Aap that Hunter's family are visiting him at the... More >>...
The 71-year-old, known for his roles in hit Australian films Muriel's Wedding, The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert and Strictly Ballroom, was admitted to a Melbourne hospice on Monday.
His manager Mark Morrissey said he is "gravely ill" and has inoperable cancer.
Morrissey told Aap that Hunter's family are visiting him at the... More >>...
- 5/19/2011
- by AAP
- TV.com
Hunter Gravely Ill With Inoperable Cancer
Australian acting legend Bill Hunter is gravely ill in a hospice with inoperable cancer.
The 71-year-old Muriel's Wedding star was admitted to a facility in Melbourne on Monday and his loved ones have flocked to his side after doctors informed him they would not be able to operate.
His manager, Mark Morrissey, announced the news on Australia's Today Show on Wednesday morning, saying, "Sadly, he has cancer, and it's inoperable. He was admitted to a hospice a couple of days ago."
Hunter worked with Mel Gibson in Gallipoli and also appeared in The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen Of The Desert. He played Toni Collette's father in Muriel's Wedding and starred opposite Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman in Australia.
He has also voiced parts in Finding Nemo and last year's Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole.
The 71-year-old Muriel's Wedding star was admitted to a facility in Melbourne on Monday and his loved ones have flocked to his side after doctors informed him they would not be able to operate.
His manager, Mark Morrissey, announced the news on Australia's Today Show on Wednesday morning, saying, "Sadly, he has cancer, and it's inoperable. He was admitted to a hospice a couple of days ago."
Hunter worked with Mel Gibson in Gallipoli and also appeared in The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen Of The Desert. He played Toni Collette's father in Muriel's Wedding and starred opposite Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman in Australia.
He has also voiced parts in Finding Nemo and last year's Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole.
- 5/18/2011
- WENN
Hunter Gravely Ill With Inoperable Cancer
Australian acting legend Bill Hunter is gravely ill in a hospice with inoperable cancer.
The 71-year-old Muriel's Wedding star was admitted to a facility in Melbourne on Monday and his loved ones have flocked to his side after doctors informed him they would not be able to operate.
His manager, Mark Morrissey, announced the news on Australia's Today Show on Wednesday morning, saying, "Sadly, he has cancer, and it's inoperable. He was admitted to a hospice a couple of days ago."
Hunter worked with Mel Gibson in Gallipoli and also appeared in The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen Of The Desert. He played Toni Collette's father in Muriel's Wedding and starred opposite Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman in Australia.
He has also voiced parts in Finding Nemo and last year's Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole.
The 71-year-old Muriel's Wedding star was admitted to a facility in Melbourne on Monday and his loved ones have flocked to his side after doctors informed him they would not be able to operate.
His manager, Mark Morrissey, announced the news on Australia's Today Show on Wednesday morning, saying, "Sadly, he has cancer, and it's inoperable. He was admitted to a hospice a couple of days ago."
Hunter worked with Mel Gibson in Gallipoli and also appeared in The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen Of The Desert. He played Toni Collette's father in Muriel's Wedding and starred opposite Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman in Australia.
He has also voiced parts in Finding Nemo and last year's Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole.
- 5/18/2011
- WENN
Bill Hunter is seriously ill, his manager has revealed. The 71-year-old award-winning Australian actor, who is best known for playing Toni Collette's overbearing father in Muriel's Wedding, has been admitted to a Melbourne hospice as he continues his battle against cancer. Mark Morrissey told the Today show this morning: "Sadly, he has cancer and it's inoperable. He was admitted to a hospice a couple of days ago." Hunter is also known for his roles in Newsfront, Strictly Ballroom, The Adventures (more)...
- 5/18/2011
- by By Rebecca Davies
- Digital Spy
Australian screen veteran Bill Hunter is gravely ill in a Melbourne hospice with inoperable cancer. The actor, who has appeared in some of Australia's most iconic films including Muriel's Wedding, The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert and Strictly Ballroom checked into Kew hospice two days ago. Hunter's film and television career has spanned more than 40 years. Since one of his earliest appearances as an uncredited Guardian in Doctor Who in 1966, the actor has featured in everything from Skippy and Prisoner to Gallipoli and The Square. He is most notable for having worked with many of Australia's great filmmakers and actors including Peter Weir, Mel Gibson, Guy Pearce, Hugo Weaving, Baz Luhrmann and P.J Hogan. A favourite of the AFI awards, Hunter...
- 5/18/2011
- by Amanda Diaz
- IF.com.au
Legend Of The Guardians:the Owls Of Ga' Hoole – (3D Blu-ray)Warner Home Entertainment2010/Rated PG/Running Time 97 minsList Price $44.98 – Now AvailableWhat would possess Zack Snyder to make a kiddie film about owls? I remember asking myself this question many months back when I first caught the trailer for the 300 director's latest, Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole. Had Snyder licked one too many Tootsie Roll pops or was he trying to show Warner Bros., the studio which had produced his last two films, that he could be a versatile director? Perhaps making a sure fire hit children's film was the only way the studio would back a radical idea like his bizarre looking epic Sucker Punch? Whatever the reason, I don't really care, because Lotg not only marks Snyder's best film, but proves he can handle stories of substance over style. Not that any of Snyder's familiar style is missing from Lotg,...
- 12/30/2010
- LRMonline.com
Catch .44
Opens: 2011
Cast: Forest Whitaker, Bruce Willis, Malin Akerman, Nikki Reed, Deborah Ann Woll
Director: Aaron Harvey
Summary: The story focuses on three women being thrust into an extraordinary situation involving a psychopathic hitman, a grizzled trucker and a delusional line cook.
Analysis: Oddly little is known about this indie crime comedy aside from the three lead female roles have gone through more than a couple of rounds of casting musical chairs. The likes of Maggie Grace, Kate Mara, Laura Ramsey, Sarah Roemer, Lizzy Caplan and Lauren German were all attached at one point or another before the final trio of Malin Akerman ("Watchmen"), Nikki Reed ("Twilight") and Deborah Ann Woll ("True Blood") were settled on.
Bruce Willis, Forest Whitaker, Michael Rosenbaum and Brad Dourif also star with Willis as a crime boss behind everything that happens and Whitaker as a dangerously unstable assassin. Aaron Harvey, who last directed...
Opens: 2011
Cast: Forest Whitaker, Bruce Willis, Malin Akerman, Nikki Reed, Deborah Ann Woll
Director: Aaron Harvey
Summary: The story focuses on three women being thrust into an extraordinary situation involving a psychopathic hitman, a grizzled trucker and a delusional line cook.
Analysis: Oddly little is known about this indie crime comedy aside from the three lead female roles have gone through more than a couple of rounds of casting musical chairs. The likes of Maggie Grace, Kate Mara, Laura Ramsey, Sarah Roemer, Lizzy Caplan and Lauren German were all attached at one point or another before the final trio of Malin Akerman ("Watchmen"), Nikki Reed ("Twilight") and Deborah Ann Woll ("True Blood") were settled on.
Bruce Willis, Forest Whitaker, Michael Rosenbaum and Brad Dourif also star with Willis as a crime boss behind everything that happens and Whitaker as a dangerously unstable assassin. Aaron Harvey, who last directed...
- 12/23/2010
- by Garth Franklin
- Dark Horizons
Catch .44
Opens: 2011
Cast: Forest Whitaker, Bruce Willis, Malin Akerman, Nikki Reed, Deborah Ann Woll
Director: Aaron Harvey
Summary: The story focuses on three women being thrust into an extraordinary situation involving a psychopathic hitman, a grizzled trucker and a delusional line cook.
Analysis: Oddly little is known about this indie crime comedy aside from the three lead female roles have gone through more than a couple of rounds of casting musical chairs. The likes of Maggie Grace, Kate Mara, Laura Ramsey, Sarah Roemer, Lizzy Caplan and Lauren German were all attached at one point or another before the final trio of Malin Akerman ("Watchmen"), Nikki Reed ("Twilight") and Deborah Ann Woll ("True Blood") were settled on.
Bruce Willis, Forest Whitaker, Michael Rosenbaum and Brad Dourif also star with Willis as a crime boss behind everything that happens and Whitaker as a dangerously unstable assassin. Aaron Harvey, who last directed...
Opens: 2011
Cast: Forest Whitaker, Bruce Willis, Malin Akerman, Nikki Reed, Deborah Ann Woll
Director: Aaron Harvey
Summary: The story focuses on three women being thrust into an extraordinary situation involving a psychopathic hitman, a grizzled trucker and a delusional line cook.
Analysis: Oddly little is known about this indie crime comedy aside from the three lead female roles have gone through more than a couple of rounds of casting musical chairs. The likes of Maggie Grace, Kate Mara, Laura Ramsey, Sarah Roemer, Lizzy Caplan and Lauren German were all attached at one point or another before the final trio of Malin Akerman ("Watchmen"), Nikki Reed ("Twilight") and Deborah Ann Woll ("True Blood") were settled on.
Bruce Willis, Forest Whitaker, Michael Rosenbaum and Brad Dourif also star with Willis as a crime boss behind everything that happens and Whitaker as a dangerously unstable assassin. Aaron Harvey, who last directed...
- 12/23/2010
- by Garth Franklin
- Dark Horizons
Chicago – A few weeks ago, we acclaimed the beauty of the Blu-ray releases of Baz Luhrmann’s “Moulin Rouge!” and “Romeo + Juliet.” Oh what a difference a studio can make. While Fox treated those Luhrmann films with HD respect, Disney has decided to release his first film, the great “Strictly Ballroom” in a lackluster standard DVD special edition that would have been great in 2006 but times have changed.
DVD Rating: 3.0/5.0
The most terrifying thing about the “Strictly Ballroom: Special Edition” may not be that it’s lackluster in comparison to the great Blu-rays of “Moulin Rouge!” and “Romeo + Juliet” but that it appears to not be a tie-in to those releases but something far more terrifying. The back of the DVD case says “The Film That Started the Dancing With the Stars Phenomenon!” Really?!?! A 1992 Australian film that made $12 million inspired “Dancing With the Stars”?!?! What’s next? A...
DVD Rating: 3.0/5.0
The most terrifying thing about the “Strictly Ballroom: Special Edition” may not be that it’s lackluster in comparison to the great Blu-rays of “Moulin Rouge!” and “Romeo + Juliet” but that it appears to not be a tie-in to those releases but something far more terrifying. The back of the DVD case says “The Film That Started the Dancing With the Stars Phenomenon!” Really?!?! A 1992 Australian film that made $12 million inspired “Dancing With the Stars”?!?! What’s next? A...
- 12/1/2010
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Weekend Box Office
1The Social Network$23 million2Legend of The Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole$10.8 million3Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps$10.1 million4The Town$10 million5Easy a$7 million6You Again$5.5 million7Case 39$5.35 million8Let Me In$5.3 million9Devil$3.6 million10Alpha and Omega$3 million#1#2#3#4#5#6#7#8#9#10
There were some big surprises at the box office last week as Zack Snyder's Legend of The Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole fell short of its predicted number one debut and was upset by the return of Michael Douglas's Gordon Gekko in Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps. But with three new movies entering the box office race this week including the Oscar-worthy film The Social Network and the highly anticipated horror flicks Let Me In and Case 39, Mr. Gekko definitely had some trouble trying to stay on top of the charts for a second week in a row.
Debuting at number one this week...
1The Social Network$23 million2Legend of The Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole$10.8 million3Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps$10.1 million4The Town$10 million5Easy a$7 million6You Again$5.5 million7Case 39$5.35 million8Let Me In$5.3 million9Devil$3.6 million10Alpha and Omega$3 million#1#2#3#4#5#6#7#8#9#10
There were some big surprises at the box office last week as Zack Snyder's Legend of The Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole fell short of its predicted number one debut and was upset by the return of Michael Douglas's Gordon Gekko in Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps. But with three new movies entering the box office race this week including the Oscar-worthy film The Social Network and the highly anticipated horror flicks Let Me In and Case 39, Mr. Gekko definitely had some trouble trying to stay on top of the charts for a second week in a row.
Debuting at number one this week...
- 10/3/2010
- MovieWeb
The writer discusses adapting the screenplay as well as his upcoming movie Anonymous, about William Shakespeare
Writer John Orloff's career began when Oscar winners Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg read a screenplay he wrote called Soul Of The Age, which is about the authorship controversy surrounding many of William Shakespeare's most famous plays. That led to an opportunity for Orloff to write several episodes of the Emmy Award winning mini-series Band of Brothers.
In 2007 the writer's adaptation of Mariane Pearl's memoir A Mighty Heart was released starring Oscar winner Angelina Jolie, and it earned him an Independent Spirit Award nomination for Best First Screenplay. Since then Orloff has been hired to pen several high profile scripts, including a film based on the life of "James Bond" author Ian Fleming called Fleming for Leonardo DiCaprio, and an adaptation of The Martian Chronicles, by Ray Bradbury. Not to mention that his screenplay about Shakespeare,...
Writer John Orloff's career began when Oscar winners Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg read a screenplay he wrote called Soul Of The Age, which is about the authorship controversy surrounding many of William Shakespeare's most famous plays. That led to an opportunity for Orloff to write several episodes of the Emmy Award winning mini-series Band of Brothers.
In 2007 the writer's adaptation of Mariane Pearl's memoir A Mighty Heart was released starring Oscar winner Angelina Jolie, and it earned him an Independent Spirit Award nomination for Best First Screenplay. Since then Orloff has been hired to pen several high profile scripts, including a film based on the life of "James Bond" author Ian Fleming called Fleming for Leonardo DiCaprio, and an adaptation of The Martian Chronicles, by Ray Bradbury. Not to mention that his screenplay about Shakespeare,...
- 9/27/2010
- MovieWeb
Weekend Box Office
1Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps$19 million2Legend of The Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole$16.3 million3The Town$16 million4Easy A$10.7 million5You Again$8.3 million6Devil$6.4 million7Resident Evil: Afterlife$4.9 million8Alpha and Omega$4.7 million9Takers$1.6 million10Inception$1.2 million#1#2#3#4#5#6#7#8#9#10
There were no big surprises at the box office last weekend as director Ben Affleck's second effort The Town won over audience members and critics alike with excellent reviews and a $23.8 million opening weekend total. Also doing well in its debut last week and gaining rave reviews was the new high school comedy Easy a starring Emma Stone. But with three very strong new contenders to the box office race this week including, Zack Snyder's computer animated 3D family film Legend of The Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole, Oliver Stone's long awaited sequel to his classic '80s film Wall Street, Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps...
1Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps$19 million2Legend of The Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole$16.3 million3The Town$16 million4Easy A$10.7 million5You Again$8.3 million6Devil$6.4 million7Resident Evil: Afterlife$4.9 million8Alpha and Omega$4.7 million9Takers$1.6 million10Inception$1.2 million#1#2#3#4#5#6#7#8#9#10
There were no big surprises at the box office last weekend as director Ben Affleck's second effort The Town won over audience members and critics alike with excellent reviews and a $23.8 million opening weekend total. Also doing well in its debut last week and gaining rave reviews was the new high school comedy Easy a starring Emma Stone. But with three very strong new contenders to the box office race this week including, Zack Snyder's computer animated 3D family film Legend of The Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole, Oliver Stone's long awaited sequel to his classic '80s film Wall Street, Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps...
- 9/26/2010
- MovieWeb
Predicted Weekend Box Office
1Legend of The Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole$25.7 million2Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps$24.3 million3The Town$15.2 million4You Again$12.4 million5Easy a$11.9 million6Devil$5.8 million7Resident Evil: Afterlife$5.1 million8Alpha and Omega$4.3 million9Takers$3.6 million10The American$2.3 million#1#2#3#4#5#6#7#8#9#10
As expected last week, director Ben Affleck's second effort The Town won over audience members and critics alike with excellent reviews and a $23.8 million opening weekend total. Also, doing well in its debut last week and gaining rave reviews is the new high school comedy Easy a starring Emma Stone. But with three very strong new contenders coming to the box office race this weekend, Zack Snyder's computer animated 3D family film Legend of The Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole, Oliver Stone's long awaited sequel to his classic '80s movie Wall Street, Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps and the new romantic comedy You Again starring Kristen Bell,...
1Legend of The Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole$25.7 million2Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps$24.3 million3The Town$15.2 million4You Again$12.4 million5Easy a$11.9 million6Devil$5.8 million7Resident Evil: Afterlife$5.1 million8Alpha and Omega$4.3 million9Takers$3.6 million10The American$2.3 million#1#2#3#4#5#6#7#8#9#10
As expected last week, director Ben Affleck's second effort The Town won over audience members and critics alike with excellent reviews and a $23.8 million opening weekend total. Also, doing well in its debut last week and gaining rave reviews is the new high school comedy Easy a starring Emma Stone. But with three very strong new contenders coming to the box office race this weekend, Zack Snyder's computer animated 3D family film Legend of The Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole, Oliver Stone's long awaited sequel to his classic '80s movie Wall Street, Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps and the new romantic comedy You Again starring Kristen Bell,...
- 9/24/2010
- MovieWeb
Director Zack Snyder has earned the title of "visionary director" after only three films. Which, if you think about it, is quite an accomplishment all to itself. He first gained the attention of fans and critics alike for his remake of George A. Romero's classic horror film Dawn Of The Dead. The director then followed that up with two movies both adapted from comic books, the extremely successful "sword & sandal" movie 300 based on legendary comic book scribe Frank Miller's popular graphic novel. And Watchmen, based on equally legendary comic book writer Alan Moore's seminal graphic novel, which is considered by many to be one of the greatest comic books of all-time.
His latest project is the 3D animated family film, Legend of The Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole, which opens in theaters on September 24th, and is based on the successful series of books by author Kathryn Lasky.
His latest project is the 3D animated family film, Legend of The Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole, which opens in theaters on September 24th, and is based on the successful series of books by author Kathryn Lasky.
- 9/24/2010
- MovieWeb
Warner Bros. has released a ton of new photos from the upcoming animated adventure Legend of The Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole, which will arrive in theaters nationwide on September 24. Click on any of the below images from Zack Snyder's new movie to access our huge photo gallery:
Legend of The Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole comes to theaters September 24th, 2010 and stars Emily Barclay, Abbie Cornish, Essie Davis, Adrienne DeFaria, Joel Edgerton, Deborra-Lee Furness, Sacha Horler, Bill Hunter. The film is directed by Zack Snyder.
Legend of The Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole comes to theaters September 24th, 2010 and stars Emily Barclay, Abbie Cornish, Essie Davis, Adrienne DeFaria, Joel Edgerton, Deborra-Lee Furness, Sacha Horler, Bill Hunter. The film is directed by Zack Snyder.
- 9/20/2010
- MovieWeb
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