Politics and the entertainment industry go way back for neither can really exist without the other. So while the main purpose of actors and actresses is to ‘entertain’ the audience, they cannot really exist in a vacuum given their immense fanbase and influence. This was a feat we saw at the recently held Presidential elections in the US. Similarly, when it comes to situations like wars and conflicts or an issue as indispensable as the Palestine-Israel one, for years celebrities have spoken up in the support of one or the other.
May Calamawy as Layla/ Scarlet Scarab in Moon Knight | Credit: Disney+
Recently, fans were shocked when they saw the Palestinian-Egyptian actress, May Calamawy’s scenes were cut from Gladiator 2, stirring up a storm on social media, alleging that it was due to her stance on the ongoing events in the Middle East. While it is not new to...
May Calamawy as Layla/ Scarlet Scarab in Moon Knight | Credit: Disney+
Recently, fans were shocked when they saw the Palestinian-Egyptian actress, May Calamawy’s scenes were cut from Gladiator 2, stirring up a storm on social media, alleging that it was due to her stance on the ongoing events in the Middle East. While it is not new to...
- 11/16/2024
- by Maria Sultan
- FandomWire
RSVP for TV Cinematography panel on November 11: ‘Nobody Wants This,’ ‘Only Murders in the Building’
Two top cinematographers will reveal secrets behind their projects when they join Gold Derby’s special “Meet the Experts” Q&a event with TV awards contenders. They will participate in two video discussions to premiere on Monday, November 11, at 6:00 p.m. Pt; 9:00 p.m. Et. We’ll have a one-on-one with our contributor Sam Eckmann and a roundtable chat with all of the group together.
RSVP today to our entire ongoing contenders panel series by clicking here to book your free reservation. We’ll send you a reminder a few minutes before the start of the show.
Nobody Wants This
Synopsis: An agnostic sex podcaster and a newly single rabbi fall in love; discovering if their relationship survive their wildly different lives and meddling families.
Bio: Adrian Peng Correia’s career has included “Glow,” “Ramy,” “The Flight Attendant,” and “Quiz Lady.”
Only Murders in the Building
Synopsis: Three...
RSVP today to our entire ongoing contenders panel series by clicking here to book your free reservation. We’ll send you a reminder a few minutes before the start of the show.
Nobody Wants This
Synopsis: An agnostic sex podcaster and a newly single rabbi fall in love; discovering if their relationship survive their wildly different lives and meddling families.
Bio: Adrian Peng Correia’s career has included “Glow,” “Ramy,” “The Flight Attendant,” and “Quiz Lady.”
Only Murders in the Building
Synopsis: Three...
- 11/1/2024
- by Chris Beachum and Sam Eckmann
- Gold Derby
Love is back! Not that it ever went anywhere, but with all the things the world has gone through over the past five or so years, it’s no surprise that people are here for two people falling headfirst into that warm feeling we call love. A romantic comedy TV series is a great way to explore all the stages of courtship in a way a movie just can’t. From the meet-cute to the first date, to the big “I love you,” all the way to “I do” – rom-com TV shows have it all! That’s the expectation, at least, for Netflix’s newest addition to the genre: “Nobody Wants This,” debuting on Thursday, Sept. 26. The series follows an agnostic sex podcaster (Kristin Bell) and a newly single rabbi (Adam Brody) who fall in love despite all of the obvious personal and culture differences. So to celebrate a resurgence of rom-coms,...
- 9/25/2024
- by Thomas Waschenfelder
- The Streamable
Exclusive: Radio Silence is producing a feature version of writer-director Colleen McGuinness’ Oscar-qualifying short Loser. The 30 Rock and Ramy vet McGuinness will write and direct.
Radio Silence is comprised of Matt Bettinelli-Olpin, Tyler Gillett & Chad Villella. Tyson Bidner, who produced the short, will line produce and serve as an EP.
Colleen McGuinness
Loser follows Alice, a brilliant but troubled physicist, as she attempts to heal her trauma by using time travel. However, she gets caught in a twisty, cat-and-mouse game of murder and violence in New York City.
“With Loser the short, I wanted to examine that specific turbulence of your early 20s, when your hopes and fears seem magnified, and it’s easy to feel like a loser — until you realize how much bigger the world is, and how good we really have it. In the feature, these feelings spill over into a female-led time travel thriller,...
Radio Silence is comprised of Matt Bettinelli-Olpin, Tyler Gillett & Chad Villella. Tyson Bidner, who produced the short, will line produce and serve as an EP.
Colleen McGuinness
Loser follows Alice, a brilliant but troubled physicist, as she attempts to heal her trauma by using time travel. However, she gets caught in a twisty, cat-and-mouse game of murder and violence in New York City.
“With Loser the short, I wanted to examine that specific turbulence of your early 20s, when your hopes and fears seem magnified, and it’s easy to feel like a loser — until you realize how much bigger the world is, and how good we really have it. In the feature, these feelings spill over into a female-led time travel thriller,...
- 9/12/2024
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
The long-awaited Blade reboot, featuring Mahershala Ali—who boasts two Academy Awards—has been stumbling through a maze of delays and hiccups. Marvel Studios, once again, finds itself in a bit of a jam, struggling to pin down a director after Bassam Tariq decided to step away from the project. As a result, both Ali and his fans are left twiddling their thumbs and biting their nails as they wait for the film’s theatrical debut.
Mahershala Ali as Blade | Credit: Marvel Studios
With numerous script rewrites and creative shifts on the docket, Marvel’s boss, Kevin Feige, acknowledged the bumps in the road. Compounding the issue, Ali is now being eyed for a role in the upcoming Jurassic World 4. It’s worth noting that this would be the actor’s first major live-action role in a wide theatrical release since his second Oscar win in 2019.
Meanwhile, fans, chomping...
Mahershala Ali as Blade | Credit: Marvel Studios
With numerous script rewrites and creative shifts on the docket, Marvel’s boss, Kevin Feige, acknowledged the bumps in the road. Compounding the issue, Ali is now being eyed for a role in the upcoming Jurassic World 4. It’s worth noting that this would be the actor’s first major live-action role in a wide theatrical release since his second Oscar win in 2019.
Meanwhile, fans, chomping...
- 8/30/2024
- by Siddhika Prajapati
- FandomWire
Exclusive: Molly Gordon (Theater Camp), Logan Lerman (We Were the Lucky Ones), Geraldine Viswanathan (Drive-Away Dolls) and John Reynolds (Search Party) are set to star in Oh, Hi!, an indie comedy written and to be directed by Sophie Brooks (The Boy Downstairs), who conceived the story with Gordon.
Entering production in New York this month, the film centers on Iris (Gordon) and Isaac (Lerman), whose first weekend away as a couple is going so well — until Isaac mentions he didn’t know they were a couple. Iris is sure he’s just confused….so she decides to hold him captive until they get on the same page.
Brooks and Gordon developed the project alongside producers David Brooks and Dan Clifton. Julie Waters will also produce for Watermark Media, which is financing with QWGmire, AmorFortuna, and Bespoke Production Capital. The executive producers are Evan Dyal, Molly C. Quinn, Matthew M. Welty,...
Entering production in New York this month, the film centers on Iris (Gordon) and Isaac (Lerman), whose first weekend away as a couple is going so well — until Isaac mentions he didn’t know they were a couple. Iris is sure he’s just confused….so she decides to hold him captive until they get on the same page.
Brooks and Gordon developed the project alongside producers David Brooks and Dan Clifton. Julie Waters will also produce for Watermark Media, which is financing with QWGmire, AmorFortuna, and Bespoke Production Capital. The executive producers are Evan Dyal, Molly C. Quinn, Matthew M. Welty,...
- 8/27/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Just as the curtain went up on surprise Broadway hit “Death Razzle Dazzle” in the Season 3 finale of Hulu’s “Only Murders in the Building,” Charles, Oliver, and Mabel had solved their latest murder mystery, the death of leading man Ben Gilroy (Paul Rudd). But just as one case closes, another opens at the Arconia, where this season, it’s trouble for Charles’ stunt double Sazz (Jane Lynch), who may have just been too good at her job. This season on… “Only Murders in the Building.” Season 4 premieres on Tuesday, Aug. 27 on Hulu, followed by a new episode every Tuesday through Oct. 29. You can watch with 30-Day Free Trial of Hulu.
How to Watch “Only Murders in the Building” Season 4: When: Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2024 Where: Hulu Stream: Watch with a 30-Day Free Trial of Hulu. 30-Day Free Trial $7.99+ / month hulu.com About “Only Murders in the Building”:
Created by Steve Martin,...
How to Watch “Only Murders in the Building” Season 4: When: Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2024 Where: Hulu Stream: Watch with a 30-Day Free Trial of Hulu. 30-Day Free Trial $7.99+ / month hulu.com About “Only Murders in the Building”:
Created by Steve Martin,...
- 8/27/2024
- by Ashley Steves
- The Streamable
Exclusive: New Regency and Maximum Effort are teaming on a feature adaptation of New York Times best-selling novel Eight Perfect Murders, having recently acquired the rights to the Peter Swanson novel and attached Harry Bradbeer to direct. The novel was published by William Morrow, an imprint of HarperCollins.
“I’m delighted to be working with Maximum Effort and New Regency on this truly remarkable project – a witty, surprising mischievous thriller, that’s as fun as it is soulful,” Bradbeer said.
The news follows Maximum Efforts’ record-breaking box office success with Deadpool vs. Wolverine and the upcoming fourth season of Emmy-winning hit docuseries, Welcome to Wrexham. New Regency’s recent and upcoming film and television slate includes critically acclaimed, The Bikeriders, Steve McQueen’s Blitz, and Mr. & Mrs. Smith which is up for sixteen Emmy nominations.
The novel follows a bookshop owner who finds himself at the center of an...
“I’m delighted to be working with Maximum Effort and New Regency on this truly remarkable project – a witty, surprising mischievous thriller, that’s as fun as it is soulful,” Bradbeer said.
The news follows Maximum Efforts’ record-breaking box office success with Deadpool vs. Wolverine and the upcoming fourth season of Emmy-winning hit docuseries, Welcome to Wrexham. New Regency’s recent and upcoming film and television slate includes critically acclaimed, The Bikeriders, Steve McQueen’s Blitz, and Mr. & Mrs. Smith which is up for sixteen Emmy nominations.
The novel follows a bookshop owner who finds himself at the center of an...
- 8/16/2024
- by Justin Kroll
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Actor-comedians Ramy Youssef (Ramy) and Hasan Minhaj (Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj) have boarded Mustache, the 2023 SXSW Audience Award winner from first-time feature filmmaker Imran J. Khan, as executive producers.
The pair join a stellar producing team, which also includes Academy Award winner Riz Ahmed and Allie Moore exec producing for Left-Handed Films (The Long Goodbye), Good Movies Inc., and producers Christina Won (Birdman) and Jessica Sittig, among others.
Minhaj is now involved in a dual capacity, as he also has a comedic supporting role in the film.
An homage to John Hughes coming-of-age films, ’90s nostalgia, and awkward teenage transitions, Mustache is a Northern California story revolving around 13-year-old Ilyas, a Pakistani American portrayed by new discovery Atharv Verma, whose world is turned upside down when his parents abruptly transfer him from his familiar Islamic private school to the challenges of public education.
Struggling with the mash-up of...
The pair join a stellar producing team, which also includes Academy Award winner Riz Ahmed and Allie Moore exec producing for Left-Handed Films (The Long Goodbye), Good Movies Inc., and producers Christina Won (Birdman) and Jessica Sittig, among others.
Minhaj is now involved in a dual capacity, as he also has a comedic supporting role in the film.
An homage to John Hughes coming-of-age films, ’90s nostalgia, and awkward teenage transitions, Mustache is a Northern California story revolving around 13-year-old Ilyas, a Pakistani American portrayed by new discovery Atharv Verma, whose world is turned upside down when his parents abruptly transfer him from his familiar Islamic private school to the challenges of public education.
Struggling with the mash-up of...
- 8/15/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
The fact that Ramy Youssef would find himself working on an episode of “The Bear” isn’t all that big a surprise. After all, he had worked for years with the show’s co-creator and showrunner Christopher Storer on his own Hulu comedy “Ramy.” He recalls, “Chris and I had always talked about my being involved in some capacity, but I actually think it was about me playing an acting role on the show. Then it grew into this opportunity to go do this one episode. And it was outside the country. ” Yes, that episode turned out to be “Honeydew,” the much-praised fourth episode of “The Bear’s” second season in which pastry chef Marcus (Lionel Boyce) is sent to Copenhagen to train under the renowned Chef Luca (Will Poulter). Youssef directed it and earned his second directing nomination for his trouble. Watch the exclusive video interview above.
“It turned...
“It turned...
- 8/8/2024
- by Ray Richmond
- Gold Derby
Ramy Youssef and his Cairo Cowboy production banner have signed a first-look TV deal with Netflix, Variety has learned.
Under the deal, Youssef and Cairo Cowboy will develop and create new scripted projects for the streamer.
Youssef is the co-creator and executive producer of the Netflix series “Mo” alongside Mo Amer. The series debuted its first season in 2022 with the second and final season currently in post-production. Youssef is also the co-creator and executive producer on the comedy series “Golf” alongside Will Ferrell, with Youssef also set to play a character in that series.
Youssef is best known for creating and starring in “Ramy” on Hulu, which was inspired by his own experiences as a first-generation Egyptian-American Muslim living in New Jersey. He won a Golden Globe for best actor in a television series–musical or comedy in 2020 and subsequently received Emmy nominations for both best actor in a comedy...
Under the deal, Youssef and Cairo Cowboy will develop and create new scripted projects for the streamer.
Youssef is the co-creator and executive producer of the Netflix series “Mo” alongside Mo Amer. The series debuted its first season in 2022 with the second and final season currently in post-production. Youssef is also the co-creator and executive producer on the comedy series “Golf” alongside Will Ferrell, with Youssef also set to play a character in that series.
Youssef is best known for creating and starring in “Ramy” on Hulu, which was inspired by his own experiences as a first-generation Egyptian-American Muslim living in New Jersey. He won a Golden Globe for best actor in a television series–musical or comedy in 2020 and subsequently received Emmy nominations for both best actor in a comedy...
- 8/1/2024
- by Joe Otterson and Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
Ramy Youssef is expanding his working relationship with Netflix.
The comedian, writer and actor has signed a first-look deal with the streamer. Under the partnership, Youssef and his Cairo Cowboy production company will develop and create “serialized projects” that Netflix will have the first shot at ordering.
Youssef and Cairo Cowboy have worked with Netflix previously on Mo, whose second, final season is in post-production. Youssef also co-created, is co-showrunner and is starring with Will Ferrell in Golf, a comedy in which Ferrell will play a legendary (fictional) golfer.
Youssef broke out with his Hulu series Ramy, for which he won a Golden Globe and was nominated for two Emmys (for acting and directing) in 2020. The show has streamed three seasons thus far, most recently in 2022; there hasn’t been any word on a possible fourth installment yet.
Youssef has also headlined two stand-up specials at HBO, 2020’s Feelings and this year’s More Feelings,...
The comedian, writer and actor has signed a first-look deal with the streamer. Under the partnership, Youssef and his Cairo Cowboy production company will develop and create “serialized projects” that Netflix will have the first shot at ordering.
Youssef and Cairo Cowboy have worked with Netflix previously on Mo, whose second, final season is in post-production. Youssef also co-created, is co-showrunner and is starring with Will Ferrell in Golf, a comedy in which Ferrell will play a legendary (fictional) golfer.
Youssef broke out with his Hulu series Ramy, for which he won a Golden Globe and was nominated for two Emmys (for acting and directing) in 2020. The show has streamed three seasons thus far, most recently in 2022; there hasn’t been any word on a possible fourth installment yet.
Youssef has also headlined two stand-up specials at HBO, 2020’s Feelings and this year’s More Feelings,...
- 8/1/2024
- by Rick Porter
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Netflix and Emmy-nominated and Golden Globe-winning writer, director, comedian and actor Ramy Youssef are teaming up. Youssef has signed a first-look deal with the streamer in which he will develop and create serialized projects through his production company Cairo Cowboy.
Netflix’s first collaboration with Youssef was as exec producer of the critically acclaimed series Mo that he co-created with Mo Amer. The series has received numerous awards, including a Peabody, Gotham Award, TV Academy Honors, and an AFI Awards Honoree. Mo is in post-production on its second season right now which will bring the story to a close.
Netflix’s next collaboration with Youssef will be as co-creator and executive producer of the scripted comedy series Golf, in which he will also play a role.
Under the Cairo Cowboy banner, the credits include Hulu and A24’s Golden Globe and Peabody Award-winning series Ramy, which is now streaming its...
Netflix’s first collaboration with Youssef was as exec producer of the critically acclaimed series Mo that he co-created with Mo Amer. The series has received numerous awards, including a Peabody, Gotham Award, TV Academy Honors, and an AFI Awards Honoree. Mo is in post-production on its second season right now which will bring the story to a close.
Netflix’s next collaboration with Youssef will be as co-creator and executive producer of the scripted comedy series Golf, in which he will also play a role.
Under the Cairo Cowboy banner, the credits include Hulu and A24’s Golden Globe and Peabody Award-winning series Ramy, which is now streaming its...
- 8/1/2024
- by Justin Kroll
- Deadline Film + TV
The first official trailer for Ridley Scott's long-awaited historical action epic Gladiator II has arrived online and it's every bit as epic as you'd expect as Paul Mescal (Normal People; Aftersun; The Lost Daughter) squares off against 3x Primetime Emmy-nominee Pedro Pascal (The Mandalorian; Game of Thrones; Narcos) and Academy Award-winner Denzel Washington (Training Day; Fences; Malcolm X).
As per the official synopsis, "Gladiator II continues the epic saga of power, intrigue, and vengeance set in Ancient Rome. Years after witnessing the death of the revered hero Maximus at the hands of his uncle, Lucius (Paul Mescal) is forced to enter the Colosseum after his home is conquered by the tyrannical Emperors who now lead Rome with an iron fist. With rage in his heart and the future of the Empire at stake, Lucius must look to his past to find strength and honor to return the glory of Rome to its people.
As per the official synopsis, "Gladiator II continues the epic saga of power, intrigue, and vengeance set in Ancient Rome. Years after witnessing the death of the revered hero Maximus at the hands of his uncle, Lucius (Paul Mescal) is forced to enter the Colosseum after his home is conquered by the tyrannical Emperors who now lead Rome with an iron fist. With rage in his heart and the future of the Empire at stake, Lucius must look to his past to find strength and honor to return the glory of Rome to its people.
- 7/9/2024
- ComicBookMovie.com
The Bear has to be one of the best series ever created. The FX comedy-drama series is intense, funny, tragic, and has some of the most beautiful-looking food I’ve ever seen. Created by Christopher Storer, The Bear follows the story of Carmen “Carmy” Berzatto, an award-winning working in one of the best restaurants in the United States, as he moves back to Chicago to run his family-owned sandwich shop after a tragic incident. The Bear aired its third season recently, and I’m happy to say that the series is getting better with every new season. We are also happy that The Bear was renewed for a fourth season ahead of its Season 3 premiere. The Bear stars Jeremy Allen White in the lead role, with Ayo Edebiri, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Abby Elliott, Matty Matheson, Jon Bernthal, Oliver Platt, L-Boy, and Edwin Lee Gibson starring in supporting. So, if you love The Bear’s intensity,...
- 6/27/2024
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
A24 has received an influx of cash from Josh Kushner’s Thrive Capital that now values the indie studio at $3.5 billion (enterprise value), a source with knowledge of the investment told IndieWire. The studio’s new valuation is 40 percent higher than it was for the last round of funding: 2022’s $225 million investment at a $2.5 billion valuation.
That doesn’t mean Kushner threw $1 billion into the pot — far from it. Existing investors from the previous round have also upped their financial support for this new round, A24 said on Wednesday. Additionally, the A24 brand has just organically grown its valuation with its successes in recent years, including “Everything Everywhere All at Once” (2022), “Talk to Me” (2022), and this year’s “Civil War.”
But still, it must have been substantial. The Financial Times reported Kushner’s investment was $100 million, which we understand to be in the ballpark.
It is not just Kushner’s...
That doesn’t mean Kushner threw $1 billion into the pot — far from it. Existing investors from the previous round have also upped their financial support for this new round, A24 said on Wednesday. Additionally, the A24 brand has just organically grown its valuation with its successes in recent years, including “Everything Everywhere All at Once” (2022), “Talk to Me” (2022), and this year’s “Civil War.”
But still, it must have been substantial. The Financial Times reported Kushner’s investment was $100 million, which we understand to be in the ballpark.
It is not just Kushner’s...
- 6/26/2024
- by Tony Maglio
- Indiewire
Film and TV studio A24 has secured a new round of funding led by Josh Kushner’s investment firm Thrive Capital.
In connection with the investment, Kushner will join the board of directors for A24, best known for such films as “Civil War,” “Everything Everywhere All at Once,” “Moonlight” and “Uncut Gems,” and TV series “Euphoria,” “Beef,” “Ramy” and “The Sympathizer.”
Financial details and exact figures were not disclosed by A24 and Thrive Capital, but sources confirm to Variety the investment from Thrive Capital gives it a valuation of about $3.5 billion — a 40% increase since A24’s most recent round of funding in 2022, which was $225 million at a $2.5 billion valuation.
Kushner’s New York-based investment firm has previously backed Instagram, Spotify, Stripe and other companies, and together with his wife, Karlie Kloss, leads Bedford Media (which owns i-d Magazine and is planning to relaunch Life magazine). He is younger brother of Jared Kushner,...
In connection with the investment, Kushner will join the board of directors for A24, best known for such films as “Civil War,” “Everything Everywhere All at Once,” “Moonlight” and “Uncut Gems,” and TV series “Euphoria,” “Beef,” “Ramy” and “The Sympathizer.”
Financial details and exact figures were not disclosed by A24 and Thrive Capital, but sources confirm to Variety the investment from Thrive Capital gives it a valuation of about $3.5 billion — a 40% increase since A24’s most recent round of funding in 2022, which was $225 million at a $2.5 billion valuation.
Kushner’s New York-based investment firm has previously backed Instagram, Spotify, Stripe and other companies, and together with his wife, Karlie Kloss, leads Bedford Media (which owns i-d Magazine and is planning to relaunch Life magazine). He is younger brother of Jared Kushner,...
- 6/26/2024
- by Jennifer Maas
- Variety Film + TV
A24 has closed an investment round led by Thrive Capital, the New York investment firm of Josh Kushner, who will join the indie distributor’s board of directors.
The company also received increased support from existing investors who participated in the previous round including Ken Fox’s private equity firm Stripes, and investment fund Neuberger Berman.
There was no dollar figure given in the announcement of the fund raise, the company’s second. In 2022, it secured a $225 million equity investment led by Stripes that valued A24 at $2.5 billion. Deadline hears the investment announced today reps an increase in valuation of 40% since then, valuing it at just over $3.5 billion.
Nor did the company behind Civil War and Beef specify how it will use the funds. Deadline hears it will invest in and expand production and distribution and continue work on initiatives beyond the screen from music and publishing to consumer products and live theater.
The company also received increased support from existing investors who participated in the previous round including Ken Fox’s private equity firm Stripes, and investment fund Neuberger Berman.
There was no dollar figure given in the announcement of the fund raise, the company’s second. In 2022, it secured a $225 million equity investment led by Stripes that valued A24 at $2.5 billion. Deadline hears the investment announced today reps an increase in valuation of 40% since then, valuing it at just over $3.5 billion.
Nor did the company behind Civil War and Beef specify how it will use the funds. Deadline hears it will invest in and expand production and distribution and continue work on initiatives beyond the screen from music and publishing to consumer products and live theater.
- 6/26/2024
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
Michael Chernus will lead Peacock’s upcoming limited drama series, “Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy” as the harrowing serial killer.
“I’m both excited and humbled by this opportunity. The direction that the writers are taking with this project is important, focusing on the victims and their families as well as those who finally brought John Wayne Gacy to justice,” says Chernus. “While Gacy was the perpetrator of these horrific crimes, I’m relieved that he won’t be the main focus of the series. It’s heartbreaking for me to think of what his victims (all young men and boys) could have done with their lives had the system not failed them so tragically. I believe in the power of storytelling and hope that by telling this story, in a thoughtful way, we can play some part in preventing this from ever happening again.”
Chernus currently plays Dr.
“I’m both excited and humbled by this opportunity. The direction that the writers are taking with this project is important, focusing on the victims and their families as well as those who finally brought John Wayne Gacy to justice,” says Chernus. “While Gacy was the perpetrator of these horrific crimes, I’m relieved that he won’t be the main focus of the series. It’s heartbreaking for me to think of what his victims (all young men and boys) could have done with their lives had the system not failed them so tragically. I believe in the power of storytelling and hope that by telling this story, in a thoughtful way, we can play some part in preventing this from ever happening again.”
Chernus currently plays Dr.
- 6/20/2024
- by Emily Longeretta
- Variety Film + TV
The actor takes on an unfamiliar role – as herself – in her daughter Lina Soualem’s film documenting four generations of Palestinian women
Hiam Abbass felt “suffocated” growing up as a Palestinian woman in what had recently become the state of Israel. She was unable to travel to other Arab countries where her own relatives had been forced to live after being expelled during the Nakba of 1948. Feeling at odds with the rest of the world drove her into the arts,
and she enrolled at a photography school in Haifa. Working as a photographer for El-Hakawati theater in Jerusalem was her first step towards acting professionally. “Build a career is not even really the right term,” she says. “What it meant was just to exist, to be what you want to be, without having to give answers at every second of the day to hundreds and hundreds of people.”
Today, Abbass...
Hiam Abbass felt “suffocated” growing up as a Palestinian woman in what had recently become the state of Israel. She was unable to travel to other Arab countries where her own relatives had been forced to live after being expelled during the Nakba of 1948. Feeling at odds with the rest of the world drove her into the arts,
and she enrolled at a photography school in Haifa. Working as a photographer for El-Hakawati theater in Jerusalem was her first step towards acting professionally. “Build a career is not even really the right term,” she says. “What it meant was just to exist, to be what you want to be, without having to give answers at every second of the day to hundreds and hundreds of people.”
Today, Abbass...
- 6/10/2024
- by Isabella Hammad
- The Guardian - Film News
Queenie is a British comedy-drama series created by Candice Carty-Williams. Based on a novel of the same name by author Carty-Williams, the Hulu series follows the story of a young woman in South London who has a messy breakup with her long-time boyfriend and before she can move on she must come to terms with her past. Queenie stars Dionne Brown in the lead role with Jon Pointing, Tilly Keeper, Samuel Adewunmi, Joseph Marcell, Laura Whitmore, and Sally Phillips. If you loved the comedy, drama, and romantic elements in Queenie, here are some similar shows you could watch next.
Ramy (Hulu & Rent on Prime Video) Credit – Hulu
Ramy is a comedy-drama series created by Ramy Youssef, Ari Katcher, and Ryan Welch. The Hulu series follows the story of a first-generation American Muslim as he struggles to find his footing between his religious family who want him to follow in their...
Ramy (Hulu & Rent on Prime Video) Credit – Hulu
Ramy is a comedy-drama series created by Ramy Youssef, Ari Katcher, and Ryan Welch. The Hulu series follows the story of a first-generation American Muslim as he struggles to find his footing between his religious family who want him to follow in their...
- 6/7/2024
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
Ramy Youssef’s latest HBO special, “Ramy Youssef: More Feelings,” had been in the works for years — and had evolved over time as Youssef got in a relationship and eventually got married. But some of his routine also became very more front and center for audiences in the wake of the war in Gaza.
“There’s stuff that I do touch on, a tightrope walk of taking really big concepts, and then making them super personal,” Youssef tells Variety‘s Awards Circuit Podcast. “With our show [Hulu’s “Ramy”], we had already done that with Palestine and Israel. And in my stand up, I had already done versions of it. But in the last seven or eight months, it became something that has risen to the surface for everybody. When you’re taking your time to talk about it for 10 minutes in a set, it’s important to you. On a show,...
“There’s stuff that I do touch on, a tightrope walk of taking really big concepts, and then making them super personal,” Youssef tells Variety‘s Awards Circuit Podcast. “With our show [Hulu’s “Ramy”], we had already done that with Palestine and Israel. And in my stand up, I had already done versions of it. But in the last seven or eight months, it became something that has risen to the surface for everybody. When you’re taking your time to talk about it for 10 minutes in a set, it’s important to you. On a show,...
- 5/28/2024
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Ari Katcher is a comedy writer. He’s an expert in story structure and instrumental in helping comedians like Ramy Youssef turn their autobiographical stand-up into a scripted series (“Ramy”). He did the same for his close friend and longtime collaborator Jerrod Carmichael as co-creator of the NBC sitcom “The Carmichael Show” and screenwriter of the comedian’s directorial debut “On the Count of Three.”
Katcher is also the co-creator and director of the unscripted “Jerrod Carmichael Reality Show,” in which the standup turned the cameras on his personal life. The show is revelatory in its unbridled honesty that spares no one, least of all Carmichael himself. It also demanded that Katcher be both concerned friend and a goal-driven storyteller, often at the same time.
“I was kind of writing the stories as they go,” he said. “[I was] having to balance what is good for him versus what is good for the story,...
Katcher is also the co-creator and director of the unscripted “Jerrod Carmichael Reality Show,” in which the standup turned the cameras on his personal life. The show is revelatory in its unbridled honesty that spares no one, least of all Carmichael himself. It also demanded that Katcher be both concerned friend and a goal-driven storyteller, often at the same time.
“I was kind of writing the stories as they go,” he said. “[I was] having to balance what is good for him versus what is good for the story,...
- 5/26/2024
- by Chris O'Falt
- Indiewire
Will Ferrell is coming to Netflix. Ferrell and Ramy Youssef are co-creating Golf, a comedy series which Ferrell will lead. Josh Rabinowitz also serves a co-creator. The series will be the comedy actor’s first TV comedy series. The 10-episode series will follow Ferrell as a fictional golf legend. Youssef will also play a role. Ferrell is best known for his iconic characters in films such as Anchorman: The Legend of Run Burgundy, Elf, Step Brothers, and Stranger Than Fiction. Along with producing partner Jessica Elbaum, Ferrell is a co-founder of Gloria Sanchez Productions, with is credited with critically acclaimed films Hustlers, Booksmart, Barb & Star Go To Vista Del Mar, Theater Camp, and Quiz Lady. Coming soon, Ferrell will star in Amazon Studio’s comedy You’re Cordially Invited alongside Reese Witherspoon. He is repped by UTA, Mosaic, The Lede Company and Jackoway Austen Tyerman. Youssef is best known for...
- 5/15/2024
- TV Insider
Will Ferrell and Ramy Youssef are co-creating “Golf,” a comedy series set at Netflix, with Ferrell also set to star. Josh Rabinowitz also serves as co-creator.
Ferrell will play a fictional golf legend in the 10-episode series. Youssef will also appear onscreen in the series, but details regarding his character are being kept under wraps.
Youssef and Rabinowitz serve as showrunners, and executive produce alongside Ferrell, Jessica Elbaum and Alix Taylor for Gloria Sanchez Productions; Rian Johnson, Ram Bergman and Nena Rodrigue for T-Street; and Andy Campagna for Youssef’s Cairo Cowboy.
Ferrell is best known for his sevens seasons as a “Saturday Night Live” cast member and starring in films such as “Elf,” “Anchorman,” “Talladega Nights” and “Step Brothers,” having co-written the last three titles with Adam McKay. More recently, he has appeared in “Barbie,” “The Shrink Next Door” and “Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga.” Ferrell...
Ferrell will play a fictional golf legend in the 10-episode series. Youssef will also appear onscreen in the series, but details regarding his character are being kept under wraps.
Youssef and Rabinowitz serve as showrunners, and executive produce alongside Ferrell, Jessica Elbaum and Alix Taylor for Gloria Sanchez Productions; Rian Johnson, Ram Bergman and Nena Rodrigue for T-Street; and Andy Campagna for Youssef’s Cairo Cowboy.
Ferrell is best known for his sevens seasons as a “Saturday Night Live” cast member and starring in films such as “Elf,” “Anchorman,” “Talladega Nights” and “Step Brothers,” having co-written the last three titles with Adam McKay. More recently, he has appeared in “Barbie,” “The Shrink Next Door” and “Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga.” Ferrell...
- 5/15/2024
- by Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
Netflix is ready to tee off with Will Ferrell.
In his first scripted TV comedy series, Ferrell will star in a scripted comedy series titled Golf. The streamer has picked up 10 episodes of the series, which is co-created by Ferrell, Ramy Youssef — who will also have an onscreen role — and Josh Rabinowitz (Babes, Ramy, The Carmichael Show).
In Golf, Ferrell will play a fictional golf legend. Details on Youssef’s part are being kept under wraps though sources say the show isn’t a two-hander. (Netflix also stresses that Golf should be capitalized, though it’s unclear if it’s an acronym.)
Youssef and Rabinowitz, who previously teamed for Hulu’s critically praised comedy Ramy, will serve as showrunners and exec produce Golf alongside Ferrell, Jessica Elbaum and Alix Taylor for Gloria Sanchez Productions. Rian Johnson (Peacock’s Poker Face), Ram Bergman and Nena Rodrigue will exec produce for T-Street,...
In his first scripted TV comedy series, Ferrell will star in a scripted comedy series titled Golf. The streamer has picked up 10 episodes of the series, which is co-created by Ferrell, Ramy Youssef — who will also have an onscreen role — and Josh Rabinowitz (Babes, Ramy, The Carmichael Show).
In Golf, Ferrell will play a fictional golf legend. Details on Youssef’s part are being kept under wraps though sources say the show isn’t a two-hander. (Netflix also stresses that Golf should be capitalized, though it’s unclear if it’s an acronym.)
Youssef and Rabinowitz, who previously teamed for Hulu’s critically praised comedy Ramy, will serve as showrunners and exec produce Golf alongside Ferrell, Jessica Elbaum and Alix Taylor for Gloria Sanchez Productions. Rian Johnson (Peacock’s Poker Face), Ram Bergman and Nena Rodrigue will exec produce for T-Street,...
- 5/15/2024
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Will Ferrell is making a rare foray into scripted television in a big way.
The former SNL star, whose acting credits have mainly focused on films, is co-creating the new Netflix comedy series Golf alongside Ramy Youssef (Ramy) and Josh Rabinowitz (The Carmichael Show). Ferrell and Youssef are set to star.
In his first leading role in a comedy series, Ferrell will star as a fictional golf legend. Details regarding Youssef’s role are under wraps.
Ferrell was previously developing a series following a professional golfer who becomes the face of a controversial new league competing with the PGA, as Deadline reported exclusively back in 2023. “It also evokes one of Ferrell’s signature movies, Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby. The series is in a similar tone, I hear, bringing Ferrell back to the sports arena he also explored in Blades of Glory and Semi-Pro,...
The former SNL star, whose acting credits have mainly focused on films, is co-creating the new Netflix comedy series Golf alongside Ramy Youssef (Ramy) and Josh Rabinowitz (The Carmichael Show). Ferrell and Youssef are set to star.
In his first leading role in a comedy series, Ferrell will star as a fictional golf legend. Details regarding Youssef’s role are under wraps.
Ferrell was previously developing a series following a professional golfer who becomes the face of a controversial new league competing with the PGA, as Deadline reported exclusively back in 2023. “It also evokes one of Ferrell’s signature movies, Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby. The series is in a similar tone, I hear, bringing Ferrell back to the sports arena he also explored in Blades of Glory and Semi-Pro,...
- 5/15/2024
- by Rosy Cordero
- Deadline Film + TV
A trip to the green is in full swing!
Today, Netflix announced Golf, an upcoming scripted series that will star Will Ferrell in his first TV comedy as a fictional golf legend. Also appearing in the show is Ramy Youssef.
Co-created by Ferrell, Youssef, and Josh Rabinowitz, Golf was given a 10-episode order. Youssef and Rabinowitz will be showrunners and executive producers for the series. Ferrell, Jessica Elbaum, and Alix Taylor are executive producers for Gloria Sanchez Productions. Rian Johnson, Ram Bergman, and Nena Rodrigue are executive producers for T-Street. Andy Campagna is an executive producer for Cairo Cowboy.
In the meantime, get your Ferrell fix with Talladega Nightsand Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga, streaming on Netflix now, and look for the forthcoming documentary, Will & Harper, featuring Ferrell and directed by Josh Greenbaum...
Today, Netflix announced Golf, an upcoming scripted series that will star Will Ferrell in his first TV comedy as a fictional golf legend. Also appearing in the show is Ramy Youssef.
Co-created by Ferrell, Youssef, and Josh Rabinowitz, Golf was given a 10-episode order. Youssef and Rabinowitz will be showrunners and executive producers for the series. Ferrell, Jessica Elbaum, and Alix Taylor are executive producers for Gloria Sanchez Productions. Rian Johnson, Ram Bergman, and Nena Rodrigue are executive producers for T-Street. Andy Campagna is an executive producer for Cairo Cowboy.
In the meantime, get your Ferrell fix with Talladega Nightsand Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga, streaming on Netflix now, and look for the forthcoming documentary, Will & Harper, featuring Ferrell and directed by Josh Greenbaum...
- 5/15/2024
- by Christopher Hudspeth
- Tudum - Netflix
Dubai-based Front Row Filmed Entertainment has secured global distribution rights to Saudi-Emirati family comedy Al Eid Eiden – the first major feature produced by an all-female Emirati creative team.
The distributor closed the deal with Image Nation Abu Dhabi at the Cannes market. It plans to give the film a wide theatrical release across the UAE, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and wider Gulf on July 4, via Front Row Filmed Entertainment and Front Row Arabia, a joint venture between Front Row and leading Saudi exhibitor Muvi Cinemas. Front Row will also handle all post-theatrical rights.
The story follows a Saudi-Emirati family as...
The distributor closed the deal with Image Nation Abu Dhabi at the Cannes market. It plans to give the film a wide theatrical release across the UAE, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and wider Gulf on July 4, via Front Row Filmed Entertainment and Front Row Arabia, a joint venture between Front Row and leading Saudi exhibitor Muvi Cinemas. Front Row will also handle all post-theatrical rights.
The story follows a Saudi-Emirati family as...
- 5/15/2024
- ScreenDaily
Theater Camp director Molly Gordon is on board to helm Small Parts, a reimagining for Searchlight Pictures of Outrageous Fortune, which starred Bette Midler and Shelley Long as rivals.
Gordon, who also stars in The Bear, and co-writer Allie Levitan will do a new take on the 1987 comedy directed by Arther Hiller. Small Parts will center on rival actors who clash on a scrappy indie film set and accidentally find themselves entangled in a game of cat-and-mouse more outrageous than any movie, according to a synopsis from the producers.
The Small Parts project is in development, with Searchlight senior vp of production Taylor Friedman overseeing. For Searchlight, Gordon recently co-directed, co-wrote and starred in Theater Camp, which earned the Sundance U.S. dramatic special jury award for ensemble.
Gordon plays Claire in the second season of The Bear series, opposite Jeremy Allen White and Ayo Edebiri. Gordon earned a Screen...
Gordon, who also stars in The Bear, and co-writer Allie Levitan will do a new take on the 1987 comedy directed by Arther Hiller. Small Parts will center on rival actors who clash on a scrappy indie film set and accidentally find themselves entangled in a game of cat-and-mouse more outrageous than any movie, according to a synopsis from the producers.
The Small Parts project is in development, with Searchlight senior vp of production Taylor Friedman overseeing. For Searchlight, Gordon recently co-directed, co-wrote and starred in Theater Camp, which earned the Sundance U.S. dramatic special jury award for ensemble.
Gordon plays Claire in the second season of The Bear series, opposite Jeremy Allen White and Ayo Edebiri. Gordon earned a Screen...
- 5/13/2024
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
After acquiring Molly Gordon’s Sundance movie Theater Camp for $8M, Searchlight Pictures is back in business with the filmmaker again on the movie Small Parts. The movie is currently in development.
The pic is a new take on the 1987 Shelly Long and Bette Midler blockbuster comedy Outrageous Fortune. In the pic, co-written by Gordon and Allie Levitan, two actresses clash on a scrappy indie movie set accidentally find themselves entangled in a game of cat-and-mouse more outrageous than any movie.
Searchlight SVP of Production Taylor Friedman is overseeing Small Parts, reporting into Searchlight Production Heads Dan Tram Nguyen and Katie Goodson-Thomas.
Gordon co-directed, co-wrote, and starred in Theater Camp, which won the Sundance U.S. Dramatic Special Jury Award for Ensemble and was one of 2023’s Top Ten Independent Films by the National Board of Review. Gordon and her co-writers were nominated for an Independent Spirit Award for Best First Screenplay.
The pic is a new take on the 1987 Shelly Long and Bette Midler blockbuster comedy Outrageous Fortune. In the pic, co-written by Gordon and Allie Levitan, two actresses clash on a scrappy indie movie set accidentally find themselves entangled in a game of cat-and-mouse more outrageous than any movie.
Searchlight SVP of Production Taylor Friedman is overseeing Small Parts, reporting into Searchlight Production Heads Dan Tram Nguyen and Katie Goodson-Thomas.
Gordon co-directed, co-wrote, and starred in Theater Camp, which won the Sundance U.S. Dramatic Special Jury Award for Ensemble and was one of 2023’s Top Ten Independent Films by the National Board of Review. Gordon and her co-writers were nominated for an Independent Spirit Award for Best First Screenplay.
- 5/13/2024
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Billy Rosenberg is exiting his post as Senior Vice President of Comedy, Hulu Originals.
Rosenberg joined Hulu in 2016. Throughout his time at the streamer, he helped to shape the comedy brand and oversaw the development and production of Hulu Originals series such as Pen15, Ramy, Only Murders In The Building, Pam & Tommy, This Fool and Solar Opposites.
Previously, Rosenberg ran The Lonely Island’s company Party Over Here. In his two years there, Rosenberg produced a number of pilot presentations under the company’s deal when it was with Fbc, including I’m Sorry that was ordered to series at TruTV, and the Freeform pilot Alone Together starring Esther Povitsky and Benji Aflalo.
Related: 2024 TV Series Cancellations & Renewals
Rosenberg also produced the feature Brigsby Bear and collaborated with writer-director Joe Swanberg and was a co-producer on the Netflix series Easy.
Prior to Lonely Island, Rosenberg was with...
Rosenberg joined Hulu in 2016. Throughout his time at the streamer, he helped to shape the comedy brand and oversaw the development and production of Hulu Originals series such as Pen15, Ramy, Only Murders In The Building, Pam & Tommy, This Fool and Solar Opposites.
Previously, Rosenberg ran The Lonely Island’s company Party Over Here. In his two years there, Rosenberg produced a number of pilot presentations under the company’s deal when it was with Fbc, including I’m Sorry that was ordered to series at TruTV, and the Freeform pilot Alone Together starring Esther Povitsky and Benji Aflalo.
Related: 2024 TV Series Cancellations & Renewals
Rosenberg also produced the feature Brigsby Bear and collaborated with writer-director Joe Swanberg and was a co-producer on the Netflix series Easy.
Prior to Lonely Island, Rosenberg was with...
- 5/11/2024
- by Lynette Rice
- Deadline Film + TV
Hulu comedy head Billy Rosenberg is exiting the streamer after more than seven years. Rosenberg, who most recently served as senior VP of comedy for Hulu Originals, has not yet been replaced.
Rosenberg’s tenure at Hulu came with the elevation of the streamer’s comedy brand, as he developed hits including “Pen15,” “Ramy,” “Only Murders In The Building,” “Pam & Tommy,” “This Fool” and “Solar Opposites.”
He initially joined as director of comedy at Hulu Originals. Prior to being tapped by Hulu, Rosenberg ran The Lonely Island’s comedy Party Over Here, as head of development and production. Working closely with Andy Samberg, Akiva Schaffer and Jorma Taccone for two years, the television and film producer executive produced a number of pilot presentations under their Fox deal. He also produced the feature film “Brigsby Bear” with then-“Saturday Night Live” cast member Kyle Mooney, and collaborated with Joe Swanberg on his Netflix series “Easy.
Rosenberg’s tenure at Hulu came with the elevation of the streamer’s comedy brand, as he developed hits including “Pen15,” “Ramy,” “Only Murders In The Building,” “Pam & Tommy,” “This Fool” and “Solar Opposites.”
He initially joined as director of comedy at Hulu Originals. Prior to being tapped by Hulu, Rosenberg ran The Lonely Island’s comedy Party Over Here, as head of development and production. Working closely with Andy Samberg, Akiva Schaffer and Jorma Taccone for two years, the television and film producer executive produced a number of pilot presentations under their Fox deal. He also produced the feature film “Brigsby Bear” with then-“Saturday Night Live” cast member Kyle Mooney, and collaborated with Joe Swanberg on his Netflix series “Easy.
- 5/11/2024
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
The Other Black Girl will not return.
Hulu has canceled the comedy series based on the book of the same name by Zakiya Dalila Harris after a single season, The Hollywood Reporter has learned.
First put in development in April 2020 before Tara Duncan signed on to serve as president of Disney’s Bipoc-focused studio Onyx Collective, the 10-episode satirical comedy about the publishing world dropped its full season in September to impressive reviews. The series currently has an 86 percent rating among critics on Rotten Tomatoes, though audiences seem to have rejected The Other Black Girl with that score sitting at a lackluster 50 percent among viewers.
Danielle Henderson (Sorry for Your Loss) originally was set to serve as showrunner but was ultimately replaced by Jordan Reddout and Gus Hickey. Exec producers on the series included Onyx’s Duncan, Rashida Jones, Temple Hill’s Marty Bowen and Wyck Godfrey, Adam Fishbach and author Harris.
Hulu has canceled the comedy series based on the book of the same name by Zakiya Dalila Harris after a single season, The Hollywood Reporter has learned.
First put in development in April 2020 before Tara Duncan signed on to serve as president of Disney’s Bipoc-focused studio Onyx Collective, the 10-episode satirical comedy about the publishing world dropped its full season in September to impressive reviews. The series currently has an 86 percent rating among critics on Rotten Tomatoes, though audiences seem to have rejected The Other Black Girl with that score sitting at a lackluster 50 percent among viewers.
Danielle Henderson (Sorry for Your Loss) originally was set to serve as showrunner but was ultimately replaced by Jordan Reddout and Gus Hickey. Exec producers on the series included Onyx’s Duncan, Rashida Jones, Temple Hill’s Marty Bowen and Wyck Godfrey, Adam Fishbach and author Harris.
- 5/10/2024
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Prepare to see “Fallout” like you’ve never seen it before. Amazon Prime Video’s latest series may be based on the bestselling video games of the same name, but with new characters and mysteries, it’s sure to surprise even diehard fans.
Set in an alternate version of Earth, the series takes place in the same desolate world as the original games. After advances in nuclear technology following World War II led to the emergence of a retrofuturistic society, an apocalyptic nuclear exchange wiped out Earth as the people of 2077 knew it. Those who could afford it hid in their Vault-Tec vaults. As for the rest of humanity, they were forced to confront the horrors of this new world head on. Now over 200 years after that war, one young Vault Dweller will risk it all and travel to the surface.
Wondering which antihero to root for in this sci-fi dramedy?...
Set in an alternate version of Earth, the series takes place in the same desolate world as the original games. After advances in nuclear technology following World War II led to the emergence of a retrofuturistic society, an apocalyptic nuclear exchange wiped out Earth as the people of 2077 knew it. Those who could afford it hid in their Vault-Tec vaults. As for the rest of humanity, they were forced to confront the horrors of this new world head on. Now over 200 years after that war, one young Vault Dweller will risk it all and travel to the surface.
Wondering which antihero to root for in this sci-fi dramedy?...
- 4/20/2024
- by Kayla Cobb
- The Wrap
Chicago – There was once a Chicago housing project called Cabrini Green, and its legacy was a damning testament to Chicago’s mismanagement of housing for the poor in general. It’s gone now, the victim of gentrification, but its memory lives on in “We Grown Now,” a new release from writer and director Minhal Baig.
Rating: 4.0/5.0
The film is set in 1992, rightly called the beginning of the end for the massive high-rise Chicago Housing Authority complex. Malik and Eric (Blake Cameron James and Gian Knight Ramirez) are best friends and neighbors at Cabrini, idling between school and imaginative play. Malik’s mother Dolores (Jurnee Smolett) and his grandmother Anita (S. Epatha Merkerson) keep body and soul together for their family, along with Eric’s father Jason (Lil Rei Howery). When a fellow child 7-year-old resident Dantrell Davis is killed in a gang related shooting, Dolores takes steps to move out,...
Rating: 4.0/5.0
The film is set in 1992, rightly called the beginning of the end for the massive high-rise Chicago Housing Authority complex. Malik and Eric (Blake Cameron James and Gian Knight Ramirez) are best friends and neighbors at Cabrini, idling between school and imaginative play. Malik’s mother Dolores (Jurnee Smolett) and his grandmother Anita (S. Epatha Merkerson) keep body and soul together for their family, along with Eric’s father Jason (Lil Rei Howery). When a fellow child 7-year-old resident Dantrell Davis is killed in a gang related shooting, Dolores takes steps to move out,...
- 4/17/2024
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Wicked director Jon M. Chu will make his Broadway directorial debut with a new stage adaptation of his 2018 hit film Crazy Rich Asians, producers announced today.
The new musical, still in development, will feature a book by Leah Nanako Winkler, music by Helen Park and lyrics by Amanda Green & Tat Tong.
The announcement comes as anticipation builds for the two-part Wicked film, with the first part set for release this November. Chu also has directed the film adaptation of the Broadway musical In The Heights.
The announcement was made today by Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures (Mark Kaufman) and Kevin Kwan. The musical is described as a contemporary romantic comedy based on Kwan’s bestselling book trilogy and the Warner Bros. Pictures film directed by Chu.
The timeline for a pre-Broadway engagement will be announced shortly.
Book-writer Winkler’s credits include her plays God Said This, Two Mile Hollow, Kentucky, Hot Asian Doctor Husband,...
The new musical, still in development, will feature a book by Leah Nanako Winkler, music by Helen Park and lyrics by Amanda Green & Tat Tong.
The announcement comes as anticipation builds for the two-part Wicked film, with the first part set for release this November. Chu also has directed the film adaptation of the Broadway musical In The Heights.
The announcement was made today by Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures (Mark Kaufman) and Kevin Kwan. The musical is described as a contemporary romantic comedy based on Kwan’s bestselling book trilogy and the Warner Bros. Pictures film directed by Chu.
The timeline for a pre-Broadway engagement will be announced shortly.
Book-writer Winkler’s credits include her plays God Said This, Two Mile Hollow, Kentucky, Hot Asian Doctor Husband,...
- 4/17/2024
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
A musical stage adaptation of Crazy Rich Asians is under development, with Jon M. Chu set to direct.
The musical, which is being developed by Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures and Kevin Kwan, features a book by Leah Nanako Winkler, music by Helen Park and lyrics by Amanda Green and Tat Tong. The production is aiming for Broadway, with a pre-Broadway engagement to be announced shortly.
This would mark the Great White Way debut for Chu, who directed the film version of Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights, as well as the upcoming two-part film adaptation of Wicked.
Both the film and the original book trilogy by Kwan provide the basis for the stage adaptation. The plot follows an American named Rachel Chu who travels to Singapore with her boyfriend, Nick Young, for a wedding and finds out that he comes from a very wealthy family, which does not necessarily approve of her.
The musical, which is being developed by Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures and Kevin Kwan, features a book by Leah Nanako Winkler, music by Helen Park and lyrics by Amanda Green and Tat Tong. The production is aiming for Broadway, with a pre-Broadway engagement to be announced shortly.
This would mark the Great White Way debut for Chu, who directed the film version of Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights, as well as the upcoming two-part film adaptation of Wicked.
Both the film and the original book trilogy by Kwan provide the basis for the stage adaptation. The plot follows an American named Rachel Chu who travels to Singapore with her boyfriend, Nick Young, for a wedding and finds out that he comes from a very wealthy family, which does not necessarily approve of her.
- 4/17/2024
- by Caitlin Huston
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: Lionsgate Play has landed another carriage deal in the Philippines.
An agreement struck with Filipino mobile services provide Smart Communications will provide Smart subscribers access to the streamer.
This marks the second telecoms tie-up for Lionsgate Play in the Philippines, coming after one struck with Pltd in 2022. The service is also available direct-to-consumer via an app.
Lionsgate Play’s library includes the John Wick, Hunger Games and Twilight franchises, feature films such as La La Land and Wonder and series including the Power franchise, Gaslit, Party Down, Ramy, Minx and The Serpent Queen.
“Our partnership with Smart is an integral part of our continued expansion efforts across Southeast Asia,” said Rohit Jain, President of Lionsgate Play Asia. “This collaboration aligns with our vision to distribute our content more broadly and to diversify our subscriber base, enabling audiences to ‘play more, browse less.’ We’re committed to strategic partnerships, and...
An agreement struck with Filipino mobile services provide Smart Communications will provide Smart subscribers access to the streamer.
This marks the second telecoms tie-up for Lionsgate Play in the Philippines, coming after one struck with Pltd in 2022. The service is also available direct-to-consumer via an app.
Lionsgate Play’s library includes the John Wick, Hunger Games and Twilight franchises, feature films such as La La Land and Wonder and series including the Power franchise, Gaslit, Party Down, Ramy, Minx and The Serpent Queen.
“Our partnership with Smart is an integral part of our continued expansion efforts across Southeast Asia,” said Rohit Jain, President of Lionsgate Play Asia. “This collaboration aligns with our vision to distribute our content more broadly and to diversify our subscriber base, enabling audiences to ‘play more, browse less.’ We’re committed to strategic partnerships, and...
- 4/5/2024
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Tracey Lincoln has been appointed to the role of Vice President, Community and Brand Partnerships at Ron Howard and Brian Grazer’s Imagine Entertainment, the company’s President Justin Wilkes announced on Wednesday.
Lincoln joins from Beyoncé Knowles-Carter’s Parkwood Entertainment, where she led social strategy and execution as Director, Social Media Strategy. In her new role, she will spearhead social strategy across Imagine’s upcoming releases and library, creating original short-form content, working with social creators to develop long-form projects, and expanding brand partnerships.
Her hiring comes as Imagine continues to build considerable momentum in brand-driven entertainment that has produced award-winning short-form, long-form, scripted and unscripted entertainment with brands such as Coca-Cola, Nike, Proctor & Gamble, Ford, Major League Baseball and a recently announced partnership with Lvmh.
“We are thrilled to welcome Tracey Lincoln to our team,” stated Marc Gilbar, President of Imagine Brands. “Storytelling on social platforms will only continue to grow,...
Lincoln joins from Beyoncé Knowles-Carter’s Parkwood Entertainment, where she led social strategy and execution as Director, Social Media Strategy. In her new role, she will spearhead social strategy across Imagine’s upcoming releases and library, creating original short-form content, working with social creators to develop long-form projects, and expanding brand partnerships.
Her hiring comes as Imagine continues to build considerable momentum in brand-driven entertainment that has produced award-winning short-form, long-form, scripted and unscripted entertainment with brands such as Coca-Cola, Nike, Proctor & Gamble, Ford, Major League Baseball and a recently announced partnership with Lvmh.
“We are thrilled to welcome Tracey Lincoln to our team,” stated Marc Gilbar, President of Imagine Brands. “Storytelling on social platforms will only continue to grow,...
- 4/3/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Ramy Youssef may not be a household name, but his self-titled comedy series "Ramy" on Hulu landed him Emmy nominations for Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series and Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series, not to mention a Peabody Award in 2020. So, he's got the right amount of experience and accolades to be called up to host "Saturday Night Live." Furthermore, Youssef is an established stand-up comedian, joining the likes of Nate Bargatze and Shane Gillis as hosts this season. But how did he handle the live sketch comedy of "SNL" in his hosting debut?
Well, Ramy Youssef doesn't seem to have much versatility when it comes to providing a variety of characters, and "SNL" leaned back on familiar formulas like talk shows and game shows, though they still delivered some hearty laughs. But there were also some amusing, peculiar sketches in this episode, and of course, big laughs...
Well, Ramy Youssef doesn't seem to have much versatility when it comes to providing a variety of characters, and "SNL" leaned back on familiar formulas like talk shows and game shows, though they still delivered some hearty laughs. But there were also some amusing, peculiar sketches in this episode, and of course, big laughs...
- 3/31/2024
- by Ethan Anderton
- Slash Film
In his “Saturday Night Live” monologue, Ramy Youssef called for a free Palestine and for the release of the hostages taken in the Israel-Hamas War.
At the top of his monologue, Youssef joked, “This is an incredibly spiritual weekend. We’re in the holy month of Ramadan. Tomorrow is Easter. And yesterday, Beyoncé released a new album. There’s just so many religions celebrating all at once.”
He went on to talk about the power of prayer, and joked that “In my friend group, I’m one of the only guys who prays. I’m friends with a lot of sinners, like, just disgusting people. And they call me when they’re in trouble because they want me to pray for them.”
Youssef recalled getting a call from his friend Ahmed, who asked him to pray for his family in Gaza.
“I’m like, ‘Dude, I got you,'” Youssef said.
At the top of his monologue, Youssef joked, “This is an incredibly spiritual weekend. We’re in the holy month of Ramadan. Tomorrow is Easter. And yesterday, Beyoncé released a new album. There’s just so many religions celebrating all at once.”
He went on to talk about the power of prayer, and joked that “In my friend group, I’m one of the only guys who prays. I’m friends with a lot of sinners, like, just disgusting people. And they call me when they’re in trouble because they want me to pray for them.”
Youssef recalled getting a call from his friend Ahmed, who asked him to pray for his family in Gaza.
“I’m like, ‘Dude, I got you,'” Youssef said.
- 3/31/2024
- by Ethan Shanfeld
- Variety Film + TV
Saturday Night Live fans, we’ve got a fresh off the press preview for the new Season 49 Episode 15 episode titled Ramy Youssef; Travis Scott!
Find out everything you need to know about the Ramy Youssef; Travis Scott episode of Saturday Night Live, including a full preview, videos, release date, cast information and how to watch!
Saturday Night Live Ramy Youssef; Travis Scott Season 49 Episode 15 Preview
In this highly anticipated episode of “Saturday Night Live,” airing on NBC at 11:29 Pm on March 30, 2024, viewers are in for a night of laughter, music, and unforgettable moments. Hosted by the talented Ramy Youssef, known for his comedic prowess and insightful storytelling, this installment promises to deliver a blend of humor and wit that will keep audiences entertained from start to finish.
Joining Ramy Youssef is the sensational Travis Scott, who will take the stage to deliver electrifying performances that are sure to energize the crowd.
Find out everything you need to know about the Ramy Youssef; Travis Scott episode of Saturday Night Live, including a full preview, videos, release date, cast information and how to watch!
Saturday Night Live Ramy Youssef; Travis Scott Season 49 Episode 15 Preview
In this highly anticipated episode of “Saturday Night Live,” airing on NBC at 11:29 Pm on March 30, 2024, viewers are in for a night of laughter, music, and unforgettable moments. Hosted by the talented Ramy Youssef, known for his comedic prowess and insightful storytelling, this installment promises to deliver a blend of humor and wit that will keep audiences entertained from start to finish.
Joining Ramy Youssef is the sensational Travis Scott, who will take the stage to deliver electrifying performances that are sure to energize the crowd.
- 3/23/2024
- by News
- TV Regular
Join comedian Ramy Youssef for an evening of laughter and thought-provoking insights in “Ramy Youssef: More Feelings,” airing on HBO this Saturday, March 23, 2024, at 10:00 Pm. Returning to the stage, Youssef brings his unique perspective to a wide range of topics, including the complexities of a divided world, the unexpected pitfalls of charitable giving, the hotly contested 2024 presidential election, the power of prayer, and even a childhood book report that left a lasting impact.
With his trademark wit and humor, Youssef offers audiences a fresh take on contemporary issues, blending personal anecdotes with astute observations on society and culture. Whether you’re a fan of his hit show “Ramy” or simply looking for a night of comedy and reflection, “Ramy Youssef: More Feelings” promises to entertain and enlighten in equal measure. Tune in for a memorable evening of comedy and introspection on HBO this Saturday.
Release Date & Time: 10:00 Pm...
With his trademark wit and humor, Youssef offers audiences a fresh take on contemporary issues, blending personal anecdotes with astute observations on society and culture. Whether you’re a fan of his hit show “Ramy” or simply looking for a night of comedy and reflection, “Ramy Youssef: More Feelings” promises to entertain and enlighten in equal measure. Tune in for a memorable evening of comedy and introspection on HBO this Saturday.
Release Date & Time: 10:00 Pm...
- 3/16/2024
- by Jules Byrd
- TV Everyday
Ramy Youssef recently opened up about his experience directing the “Honeydew” episode of The Bear season two, which saw Lionel Boyce’s Marcus journey to Copenhagen to create three items for The Bear’s dessert menu.
The Poor Things star stopped by Jimmy Kimmel Live! and explained that while helming the episode, he and Boyce were able to spend a day working at Noma, which was voted the best restaurant in the world every year from 2010-12 and then again in 2014.
“They let me and Lionel work there for a day, which we’ve never [done],” Youssef told Jimmy Kimmel. “We got to work from the beginning of the day, all the way through dinner service. We got to prep. We got to serve people food and make plates.”
He continued, “It’s really kind of sad actually because it’s a table that some people wait a year for, and...
The Poor Things star stopped by Jimmy Kimmel Live! and explained that while helming the episode, he and Boyce were able to spend a day working at Noma, which was voted the best restaurant in the world every year from 2010-12 and then again in 2014.
“They let me and Lionel work there for a day, which we’ve never [done],” Youssef told Jimmy Kimmel. “We got to work from the beginning of the day, all the way through dinner service. We got to prep. We got to serve people food and make plates.”
He continued, “It’s really kind of sad actually because it’s a table that some people wait a year for, and...
- 3/14/2024
- by Christy Piña
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
It was announced during last night’s broadcast that comedian Ramy Youssef will host the Saturday, March 30 episode of “Saturday Night Live,” and Travis Scott will serve as musical guest. This marks Youssef’s first time hosting and Scott’s second time as musical guest, having made his debut in 2018.
Youssef, who is the fourth standup comedian to host the show this season, is out promoting his new HBO comedy special, “Ramy Youssef: More Feelings,” which premieres Saturday, March 23 on Max, the Warner Bros. Discovery-owned streaming service. In the special, Youssef discusses discrimination in America, amomg other topics. Youssef can also be seen in the Oscar-nominated film “Poor Things,” which stars Emma Stone and is currently up for 11 Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
In a trailer for “More Feelings,” Youssef talks about being done apologizing and saying peaceful things, noting, “For 20 years, we’ve had to prove to people that we’re safe.
Youssef, who is the fourth standup comedian to host the show this season, is out promoting his new HBO comedy special, “Ramy Youssef: More Feelings,” which premieres Saturday, March 23 on Max, the Warner Bros. Discovery-owned streaming service. In the special, Youssef discusses discrimination in America, amomg other topics. Youssef can also be seen in the Oscar-nominated film “Poor Things,” which stars Emma Stone and is currently up for 11 Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
In a trailer for “More Feelings,” Youssef talks about being done apologizing and saying peaceful things, noting, “For 20 years, we’ve had to prove to people that we’re safe.
- 3/10/2024
- by Errol Lewis
- Soap Opera Network
Ramy Youssef is set to make his Saturday Night Live debut alongside returning musical guest Travis Scott for its March 30th episode.
Youssef is the fourth standup comic to host this season. He’s also a Golden Globe winner for his Hulu comedy Ramy, and appears alongside Emma Stone in the Oscar nominated film Poor Things. His latest comedy special, More Things, premieres March 23rd on Max
Scott last appeared on SNL in March 2018. The ten-time Grammy-nominated rapper kicked off his Circus Maximus Tour in support of his latest album Utopia last last October.
The show is taking a two-week break between shows. The Youssef/Scott epsiode is expected to be first in a three-week run ending on April 20th.
Continue reading SNL Books Ramy Youssef, Travis Scott for March 30th Epsiode at LateNighter.
Youssef is the fourth standup comic to host this season. He’s also a Golden Globe winner for his Hulu comedy Ramy, and appears alongside Emma Stone in the Oscar nominated film Poor Things. His latest comedy special, More Things, premieres March 23rd on Max
Scott last appeared on SNL in March 2018. The ten-time Grammy-nominated rapper kicked off his Circus Maximus Tour in support of his latest album Utopia last last October.
The show is taking a two-week break between shows. The Youssef/Scott epsiode is expected to be first in a three-week run ending on April 20th.
Continue reading SNL Books Ramy Youssef, Travis Scott for March 30th Epsiode at LateNighter.
- 3/10/2024
- by Jed Rosenzweig
- LateNighter
The 2021 Oscars was the first time a front-facing ramp was an integrated element of the Academy Awards’ custom-built stage. Academy member Jim LeBrecht, who uses a wheelchair, initiated the effort and executed it alongside his Crip Camp co-director Nicole Newnham and executive producer Howard Gertler after an Oscar nomination for the Obama-produced Netflix doc seemed on the horizon.
The ramp, present for years at disability-focused ceremonies like the Media Access Awards, marked a visible shift for mainstream Hollywood’s focus in the diversity, equity and inclusion space. And it would spark similar efforts — sometimes piecemeal or sweeping, other times fumbled — at other major industry events such as the Emmys and Grammys.
Since then, the Oscars have expanded their accessibility efforts. The 2024 show, which takes place this Sunday, will include confidential accessibility requests for all nominees and guests; captioning services (live captions through in-house monitors, captions for video packages and...
The ramp, present for years at disability-focused ceremonies like the Media Access Awards, marked a visible shift for mainstream Hollywood’s focus in the diversity, equity and inclusion space. And it would spark similar efforts — sometimes piecemeal or sweeping, other times fumbled — at other major industry events such as the Emmys and Grammys.
Since then, the Oscars have expanded their accessibility efforts. The 2024 show, which takes place this Sunday, will include confidential accessibility requests for all nominees and guests; captioning services (live captions through in-house monitors, captions for video packages and...
- 3/7/2024
- by Abbey White
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
“Avatar: The Last Airbender” Renewed For Two More Seasons
There’s harmony at Netflix and amidst the four nations. The streamer has announced a two-season renewal for its hit live-action “Avatar: The Last Airbender,” based on the hit Nickelodeon anime of the same name. The series will officially end with the third season, mirroring the animated series’ arc.
Watch the trailer for “Avatar: The Last Airbender” Season 1 below:
“Avatar: The Last Airbender” takes place in a world divided into four nations—Water, Earth, Fire, and Air—where Benders can manipulate and control their respective nation’s element. Amidst lost hope, Aang (played by Gordon Cormier), a young Air Nomad, reawakens to take his place as the next Avatar, the only individual who has the ability to bend all four elements, and he and his friends Katara (Kiawentiio) and Sokka (Ian Ousley) journey to end the Fire Nation’s war against...
There’s harmony at Netflix and amidst the four nations. The streamer has announced a two-season renewal for its hit live-action “Avatar: The Last Airbender,” based on the hit Nickelodeon anime of the same name. The series will officially end with the third season, mirroring the animated series’ arc.
Watch the trailer for “Avatar: The Last Airbender” Season 1 below:
“Avatar: The Last Airbender” takes place in a world divided into four nations—Water, Earth, Fire, and Air—where Benders can manipulate and control their respective nation’s element. Amidst lost hope, Aang (played by Gordon Cormier), a young Air Nomad, reawakens to take his place as the next Avatar, the only individual who has the ability to bend all four elements, and he and his friends Katara (Kiawentiio) and Sokka (Ian Ousley) journey to end the Fire Nation’s war against...
- 3/6/2024
- by Ashley Steves
- The Streamable
HBO will premiere the comedy special “Ramy Youssef: More Feelings” on March 23.
Per the official description, the trailer sees the actor, writer and comedian “offer his unique reflections on our divided world, the unexpected perils of charitable giving and more,” hitting on topics including “the 2024 presidential election, the importance of prayer, and a childhood book report that changed the course of his life.”
“I’m done apologizing. I’m done saying that we’re peaceful,” Youssef says in the trailer. “For 20 years, we’ve had to prove to people that we’re safe. Every time you turn on CNN, there’s some Arab dude talking about how ‘Islam’ means ‘peace.’ You know that guy? But he’s always shouting it. He’s always like, ‘We come in peace!'”
“You’re like, ‘Bro, that’s the slogan for aliens,'” he continues. “‘That’s what aliens say before they take over the fucking planet,...
Per the official description, the trailer sees the actor, writer and comedian “offer his unique reflections on our divided world, the unexpected perils of charitable giving and more,” hitting on topics including “the 2024 presidential election, the importance of prayer, and a childhood book report that changed the course of his life.”
“I’m done apologizing. I’m done saying that we’re peaceful,” Youssef says in the trailer. “For 20 years, we’ve had to prove to people that we’re safe. Every time you turn on CNN, there’s some Arab dude talking about how ‘Islam’ means ‘peace.’ You know that guy? But he’s always shouting it. He’s always like, ‘We come in peace!'”
“You’re like, ‘Bro, that’s the slogan for aliens,'” he continues. “‘That’s what aliens say before they take over the fucking planet,...
- 3/5/2024
- by Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
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