Phase 4 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe was a strange time for the franchise. The post-"Avengers: Endgame" era saw Kevin Feige and co. trying to shepherd the concept of the multiverse into our collective consciousness while simultaneously introducing a host of new heroes and somewhat reinventing the MCU for a new generation. Much of it worked well, with "Spider-Man: No Way Home" and "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever" holding things down on the cinematic front. Meanwhile, "WandaVision" and "Hawkeye" made a good case for the McU's streaming age being a good development — a case that was later ruined by the poorly-reviewed "Secret Invasion."
But for every good entry in Phase 4, there was a "Thor: Love and Thunder" or a "She-Hulk: Attorney at Law" to undermine them. Thankfully, Phase 4 will always remain beloved for introducing us to one of the best arguments for the MCU expanding into the world of streaming television: "Loki.
But for every good entry in Phase 4, there was a "Thor: Love and Thunder" or a "She-Hulk: Attorney at Law" to undermine them. Thankfully, Phase 4 will always remain beloved for introducing us to one of the best arguments for the MCU expanding into the world of streaming television: "Loki.
- 4/29/2024
- by Joe Roberts
- Slash Film
There is no doubt the typical movie villains are those who are less appealing and not as clever as the protagonists, who must win over them. However, there are some evil characters which are even superior to the good guys in terms of their intelligence.
Here are 7 of the most voiced examples of the extremely intelligent onscreen villains, chosen by Redditors in a recent discussion.
7. Se7en (1995) - John Doe
Kevin Spacey’s serial killer is always ahead of the detectives, while committing his chilling murders inspired by the seven deadly sins. The police don't even know his real name, and when finally catching him, they realize his scheme worked out against them.
6. The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999) - Tom Ripley
Matt Damon’s titular character knows how to pretend to be who he isn’t, how to climb the social ladder and how to be convincing enough to deceive all the people,...
Here are 7 of the most voiced examples of the extremely intelligent onscreen villains, chosen by Redditors in a recent discussion.
7. Se7en (1995) - John Doe
Kevin Spacey’s serial killer is always ahead of the detectives, while committing his chilling murders inspired by the seven deadly sins. The police don't even know his real name, and when finally catching him, they realize his scheme worked out against them.
6. The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999) - Tom Ripley
Matt Damon’s titular character knows how to pretend to be who he isn’t, how to climb the social ladder and how to be convincing enough to deceive all the people,...
- 4/28/2024
- by info@startefacts.com (Ava Raxa)
- STartefacts.com
Tom Hiddleston is sharing who he modeled his portrayal of Loki after!
The 43-year-old actor has played the God of Mischief in the Marvel Cinematic Universe since 2011. He has most recently starred in the Disney+ series Loki, which aired two seasons in 2021 and 2023.
While appearing at the Loki cast panel at PaleyFest 2024, Tom revealed the actors who inspired his MCU performance.
Keep reading to find out more…
The star shared that Alan Rickman‘s performance as Hans Gruber in 1988′s Die Hard helped him prepare to play Loki. He also mentioned James Mason‘s portrayal of spy Phillip Vandamm in 1959′s North by Northwest as an model for his character.
“Those are all characters that are about control and revenge,” Tom stated. “I might just love those performances as a child. …I just was so drawn to those performances as they seemed to be having such a wonderful time playing these antagonists,...
The 43-year-old actor has played the God of Mischief in the Marvel Cinematic Universe since 2011. He has most recently starred in the Disney+ series Loki, which aired two seasons in 2021 and 2023.
While appearing at the Loki cast panel at PaleyFest 2024, Tom revealed the actors who inspired his MCU performance.
Keep reading to find out more…
The star shared that Alan Rickman‘s performance as Hans Gruber in 1988′s Die Hard helped him prepare to play Loki. He also mentioned James Mason‘s portrayal of spy Phillip Vandamm in 1959′s North by Northwest as an model for his character.
“Those are all characters that are about control and revenge,” Tom stated. “I might just love those performances as a child. …I just was so drawn to those performances as they seemed to be having such a wonderful time playing these antagonists,...
- 4/16/2024
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
You know that famous quote commonly attributed to Alexander the Great about how he wept when there were no more worlds to conquer? We're starting to think that Zack Snyder feels much the same way, except that his version of conquering the world is more about finding ways to re-release his movies with extra footage attached at all costs.
To be fair, this isn't exactly a new phenomenon for Snyder. His 2004 "Dawn of the Dead" reboot eventually led to an unrated cut down the line and his comic book movie "Watchmen" ended up with several different versions post-release. He pulled the same trick once again with both "Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice" and, most infamously, his "Zack Snyder's Justice League" experiment that resulted in a completely different movie altogether compared to the theatrical cut. He's planning on returning to the exact same well with his two-part "Rebel Moon" epic...
To be fair, this isn't exactly a new phenomenon for Snyder. His 2004 "Dawn of the Dead" reboot eventually led to an unrated cut down the line and his comic book movie "Watchmen" ended up with several different versions post-release. He pulled the same trick once again with both "Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice" and, most infamously, his "Zack Snyder's Justice League" experiment that resulted in a completely different movie altogether compared to the theatrical cut. He's planning on returning to the exact same well with his two-part "Rebel Moon" epic...
- 4/9/2024
- by Jeremy Mathai
- Slash Film
"Air Force One" is my favorite "Die Hard" knock-off. Directed by the late Wolfgang Petersen and released in 1997 (when the Cold War was newly over and America was an unrivaled superpower), the film features terrorists hijacking — what else — Air Force One. President James Marshall (Harrison Ford), a Vietnam War veteran, personally defeats them.
Making the President of the United States into John McClane, the quintessential "in the wrong place" everyman? That's some ridiculous high-concept moviemaking I can get on board with.
Now as for the villains, Gary Oldman does his best Hans Gruber as Egor Korshunov. We know what he wants: a restored Soviet Union. When he's called about his demands, he waxes poetic about seeing "The capitalists dragged from the Kremlin," and he throws in Marshall's face about how America has "given [Russia] to gangsters and prostitutes."
While Korshunov is the villain everyone remembers (how could he not be...
Making the President of the United States into John McClane, the quintessential "in the wrong place" everyman? That's some ridiculous high-concept moviemaking I can get on board with.
Now as for the villains, Gary Oldman does his best Hans Gruber as Egor Korshunov. We know what he wants: a restored Soviet Union. When he's called about his demands, he waxes poetic about seeing "The capitalists dragged from the Kremlin," and he throws in Marshall's face about how America has "given [Russia] to gangsters and prostitutes."
While Korshunov is the villain everyone remembers (how could he not be...
- 2/11/2024
- by Devin Meenan
- Slash Film
It’s the week before Christmas. Trees are adorned with tinsel and bulbs. Mistletoe has been hung in strategic locations. Gingerbread cookies are being baked, decorated and eaten.
And, of course, the internet is buzzing with cost-analysis calculations over exactly how much money Clark Griswold earned for his annual bonus in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.
Glory be a newborn holiday tradition: Figuring out how much classic Christmas movie characters earn and spend.
On Dec. 20, The New York Times ran a story headlined, “Just How Rich Were the McCallisters in ‘Home Alone’?” Reporter Amanda Holpuch invested an extraordinary amount of shoe leather searching for an answer, even consulting with economists at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. Basing calculations largely on the cost and mortgage payments of the home in Home Alone — a sizable red-brick colonial in the Chicago suburb of Winnetka, one of the most affluent neighborhoods in the...
And, of course, the internet is buzzing with cost-analysis calculations over exactly how much money Clark Griswold earned for his annual bonus in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.
Glory be a newborn holiday tradition: Figuring out how much classic Christmas movie characters earn and spend.
On Dec. 20, The New York Times ran a story headlined, “Just How Rich Were the McCallisters in ‘Home Alone’?” Reporter Amanda Holpuch invested an extraordinary amount of shoe leather searching for an answer, even consulting with economists at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. Basing calculations largely on the cost and mortgage payments of the home in Home Alone — a sizable red-brick colonial in the Chicago suburb of Winnetka, one of the most affluent neighborhoods in the...
- 12/21/2023
- by Benjamin Svetkey
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Stars: Minami Hamabe, Ryunosuke Kamiki, Sakura Ando, Kuranosuke Sasaki, Munetaka Aoki, Hidetaka Yoshioka, Yuki Yamada, Yuya Endo, Kisuke Iida, Sae Nagatani, Ozuno Nakamura | Written and Directed by Takashi Yamazaki
After debuting on the big screen in 1954, Godzilla has become famous throughout all of cinema. Staring in over thirty films, the giant lizard has terrorised the world, from Tokyo to San Francisco, and now the filmmakers of Godzilla Minus One have brought the monster back to what feels like its roots, in post-World War 2 Japan. This time it may just be the best version we’ve ever had.
Godzilla Minus One is set in post-war Japan, as the country is at its lowest point, we follow Kōichi Shikishima (Ryunosuke Kamiki), a kamikaze pilot who abandoned his position at the end of the war. His so-called failure and his very duty in the war is brought into question, and in doing so...
After debuting on the big screen in 1954, Godzilla has become famous throughout all of cinema. Staring in over thirty films, the giant lizard has terrorised the world, from Tokyo to San Francisco, and now the filmmakers of Godzilla Minus One have brought the monster back to what feels like its roots, in post-World War 2 Japan. This time it may just be the best version we’ve ever had.
Godzilla Minus One is set in post-war Japan, as the country is at its lowest point, we follow Kōichi Shikishima (Ryunosuke Kamiki), a kamikaze pilot who abandoned his position at the end of the war. His so-called failure and his very duty in the war is brought into question, and in doing so...
- 12/18/2023
- by Alex Ginnelly
- Nerdly
Christmas, as Hans Gruber once proclaimed, is a time for miracles. Marvel could certainly use some of that magic given the year it has had. Animated multiverse series What If…? is back later this month and a new festive-themed teaser is here to remind us of that fact. Take a look:
Narrated once more by The Watcher (Jeffrey Wright) and featuring a variety of MCU movie and TV stars reprising their roles for some intriguing looking new twists on established Marvel continuity.
So if you were wondering what pleasures the new season might have to deliver, you'll have more of a clue.
And given the 22 December launch (the nine episodes of the new season will roll out across nine consecutive days this festive season), this "12 Days Of Christmas"-flavoured teaser certainly has plenty of fun to offer.
If you're a fan of these stories, you'll no doubt be happy...
Narrated once more by The Watcher (Jeffrey Wright) and featuring a variety of MCU movie and TV stars reprising their roles for some intriguing looking new twists on established Marvel continuity.
So if you were wondering what pleasures the new season might have to deliver, you'll have more of a clue.
And given the 22 December launch (the nine episodes of the new season will roll out across nine consecutive days this festive season), this "12 Days Of Christmas"-flavoured teaser certainly has plenty of fun to offer.
If you're a fan of these stories, you'll no doubt be happy...
- 12/13/2023
- by James White
- Empire - TV
A distinguished member of the Royal Shakespeare Company, Alan Rickman was an English actor who doubled as a director. His career trajectory took many turns before he gained mainstream fame. Rickman made his screen debut in 1978, portraying Tybalt on The BBC Television Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. His debut film role as Hans Gruber in Die Hard (1988) paved the way for more critically acclaimed performances in projects such as Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (1991), An Awfully Big Adventure (1995), the Harry Potter film series (2001–2011), and Alice in Wonderland (2010). Despite his illustrious screen career, Alan Rickman’s first...
- 12/6/2023
- by Banks Onuoha
- TVovermind.com
Nothing gold can stay, and to make room for everything new at Hulu in November, we have to say goodbye to dozens of the series and movies on the platform. The streamer will make room for its upcoming Christmas library by losing some of its horror-themed titles throughout the month, including “Stephen King's It,” most of its “Saw” franchise, and “Shaun Of The Dead.” Other major titles leaving the platform include Emma Stone’s breakthrough comedy “Easy A,” the Nora Ephron classic “Sleeping in Seattle,” and more.
Check out The Streamable’s top picks for what to catch this month on Hulu before they’re gone!
30-Day Free Trial $7.99+ / month hulu.com What are the 5 Best Shows and Movies Leaving Hulu in November 2023? “A Walk to Remember” | Friday, Nov. 3
Before “The Notebook,” “A Walk to Remember” was the go-to Nicholas Sparks coming-of-age schmaltz. Mandy Moore makes her film starring debut...
Check out The Streamable’s top picks for what to catch this month on Hulu before they’re gone!
30-Day Free Trial $7.99+ / month hulu.com What are the 5 Best Shows and Movies Leaving Hulu in November 2023? “A Walk to Remember” | Friday, Nov. 3
Before “The Notebook,” “A Walk to Remember” was the go-to Nicholas Sparks coming-of-age schmaltz. Mandy Moore makes her film starring debut...
- 10/31/2023
- by Ashley Steves
- The Streamable
The "Die Hard" movies run the gamut from great to dire, but even the worst of the bunch can't undermine the franchise's standing as one of the all-time best action sagas in cinema history. The original "Die Hard" has influenced countless filmmakers and inspired untold "Die Hard" knock-offs. Which is ok because, as star Bruce Willis told Entertainment Weekly, "If I was going to make an action movie today and I hadn't done 'Die Hard,' I would totally rip it off."
But even if the likes of "Speed" or "Air Force One" never existed, 20th Century Fox (now 20th Century Studios following the Disney-Fox acquisition) arguably ripped off "Die Hard" enough by itself. The first film became a surprise hit when it arrived in the summer of 1988, and naturally, Hollywood decided John McClane needed the full franchise treatment. Thus the character was doomed to be placed in ever...
But even if the likes of "Speed" or "Air Force One" never existed, 20th Century Fox (now 20th Century Studios following the Disney-Fox acquisition) arguably ripped off "Die Hard" enough by itself. The first film became a surprise hit when it arrived in the summer of 1988, and naturally, Hollywood decided John McClane needed the full franchise treatment. Thus the character was doomed to be placed in ever...
- 9/24/2023
- by Joe Roberts
- Slash Film
What makes a good villain? That's a question that storytellers have been asking themselves for centuries, and the answer is etheric, intangible, because there isn't a one-size-fits-all bad guy for every story. Sometimes you need a villain that is cold, and calculating, and sometimes you need one that is unpredictable in their moves and will fly off the handle if looked at wrong. The point is that a villain has to fit the story they're in, and more importantly, they have to pair well with the heroes.
The saying goes that a hero is only as strong as their villain, which means when Tom Hiddleston took the role of Loki, one of the most interesting big bads ever created in the Marvel comics, he had a lot on his shoulders. He not only had to craft a villain that would work outside of the printed page, he had to create...
The saying goes that a hero is only as strong as their villain, which means when Tom Hiddleston took the role of Loki, one of the most interesting big bads ever created in the Marvel comics, he had a lot on his shoulders. He not only had to craft a villain that would work outside of the printed page, he had to create...
- 9/23/2023
- by Eric Vespe
- Slash Film
Actor Alan Rickman starred in a variety of projects before his death. As is the case with most performers, some of these projects required Rickman to be intimate with his co-stars.
Alan Rickman pitied the women he shared love scenes with Alan Rickman | Ian Gavan/Getty Images
Rickman wasn’t only known for portraying Severus Snape in the Harry Potter franchise. The actor enjoyed a long career that saw him starring in a wide variety of movies. He was even seen as a reliable romantic lead, having done romance heavy films Love Actually and A Little Chaos. In 2007, Rickman starred in the feature A Nobel Man. The project was a black comedy where Rick played a mean-spirited, Nobel prize-winning professor.
The movie also had a love scene involving Rickman’s despicable character. Although the veteran was used to doing all kinds of scenes in his career, he sympathized with his female co-star during their take.
Alan Rickman pitied the women he shared love scenes with Alan Rickman | Ian Gavan/Getty Images
Rickman wasn’t only known for portraying Severus Snape in the Harry Potter franchise. The actor enjoyed a long career that saw him starring in a wide variety of movies. He was even seen as a reliable romantic lead, having done romance heavy films Love Actually and A Little Chaos. In 2007, Rickman starred in the feature A Nobel Man. The project was a black comedy where Rick played a mean-spirited, Nobel prize-winning professor.
The movie also had a love scene involving Rickman’s despicable character. Although the veteran was used to doing all kinds of scenes in his career, he sympathized with his female co-star during their take.
- 9/21/2023
- by Antonio Stallings
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Alan Rickman’s iconic role as Hans Gruber in Die Hard ultimately catapulted him into Hollywood stardom. Believe it or not, Sam Neill played an unintentional but pivotal part in this chapter of cinematic history.
From initial rejections to last-minute decisions, there is a fascinating backstory of Rickman’s feature film debut. Here’s why Rickman owes Neill for the part that launched him into the spotlight.
Alan Rickman owes Sam Neill for his part in ‘Die Hard’
The creative team behind Die Hard initially wanted a big-name actor to play the main villain, Hans Gruber, in the action-packed blockbuster. After all, they had already secured Bruce Willis to play the main protagonist, John McClane.
Initially, producers contacted Sam Neill, a New Zealand actor with an expansive filmography. Neill was their ideal choice for the role of Gruber, but things didn’t turn out as planned.
After receiving the offer,...
From initial rejections to last-minute decisions, there is a fascinating backstory of Rickman’s feature film debut. Here’s why Rickman owes Neill for the part that launched him into the spotlight.
Alan Rickman owes Sam Neill for his part in ‘Die Hard’
The creative team behind Die Hard initially wanted a big-name actor to play the main villain, Hans Gruber, in the action-packed blockbuster. After all, they had already secured Bruce Willis to play the main protagonist, John McClane.
Initially, producers contacted Sam Neill, a New Zealand actor with an expansive filmography. Neill was their ideal choice for the role of Gruber, but things didn’t turn out as planned.
After receiving the offer,...
- 9/14/2023
- by Perry Carpenter
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Die Hard without Alan Rickman? For fans of the now-iconic film, the idea may be hard to fathom, but it came close to happening. The actor almost passed on the role of villain Hans Gruber. He once admitted to initially being perplexed by the idea of starring in an action movie. Ultimately, of course, Rickman signed on, and later, felt proud of its discretely “revolutionary” approach. Plus, he also suggested a script change that turned out to be a memorable Die Hard moment.
Alan Rickman asked 1 question after reading the ‘Die Hard’ script Alan Rickman | Andreas Rentz/Getty Images
During a 2015 BAFTA Life in Pictures event celebrating his career, Rickman, who died in January 2016, opened up about Die Hard. He confessed the film industry had been new to him, saying: “I didn’t know anything about LA. I didn’t know anything about the film business … I’d never made a film before,...
Alan Rickman asked 1 question after reading the ‘Die Hard’ script Alan Rickman | Andreas Rentz/Getty Images
During a 2015 BAFTA Life in Pictures event celebrating his career, Rickman, who died in January 2016, opened up about Die Hard. He confessed the film industry had been new to him, saying: “I didn’t know anything about LA. I didn’t know anything about the film business … I’d never made a film before,...
- 8/28/2023
- by Mandi Kerr
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
An uncomplicatedly bad villain used to feature in every action film worth its salt, but a more globalised industry has made the universally hated figure a tricky character to pull off
Early on in the new Mission Impossible film, a group of sharp-suited intelligence agents gather to discuss a grave new threat to national security. Their nemesis is apparently a “godless, stateless enemy” which is “everywhere and nowhere”, “a self-aware, self-learning, truth-eating digital parasite”. Your heart sinks slightly as you realise that Tom Cruise’s latest adversary is in fact a sentient computer code. An action movie without a real villain? Hans Gruber would be spinning in his grave.
Seasoned Cruise fans, though, will know not to panic. Last summer, Top Gun: Maverick pulled off the same trick, ticking every crowdpleasing action-movie convention except one: it had no bad guy. Instead – as with the original – “the enemy” was a carefully unspecified nation state,...
Early on in the new Mission Impossible film, a group of sharp-suited intelligence agents gather to discuss a grave new threat to national security. Their nemesis is apparently a “godless, stateless enemy” which is “everywhere and nowhere”, “a self-aware, self-learning, truth-eating digital parasite”. Your heart sinks slightly as you realise that Tom Cruise’s latest adversary is in fact a sentient computer code. An action movie without a real villain? Hans Gruber would be spinning in his grave.
Seasoned Cruise fans, though, will know not to panic. Last summer, Top Gun: Maverick pulled off the same trick, ticking every crowdpleasing action-movie convention except one: it had no bad guy. Instead – as with the original – “the enemy” was a carefully unspecified nation state,...
- 8/3/2023
- by Alex Hess
- The Guardian - Film News
Cillian Murphy plays the lead character in Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer. An amazing actor in a movie that Nolan himself called “kind of a horror movie“? We’ll take it.
So, in that spirit we thought we’d take a stroll through the Peaky Blinders actor’s resume in both the thriller and horror genres. Hell, the last time Nolan and Murphy worked together they created one of the best horror aspects of The Dark Knight trilogy with the Scarecrow character!
Let’s take a look through Cillian Murphy’s career in the horror/thriller genres…
28 Days Later (2002)
For many of us, 28 Days Later was our introduction to Cillian Murphy. Our full frontal introduction to Cillian Murphy. The camera pans down on a naked man in a hospital bed who wakes up (after presumably being hit by a car) to absolute nothingness. Everything and almost everyone has been...
So, in that spirit we thought we’d take a stroll through the Peaky Blinders actor’s resume in both the thriller and horror genres. Hell, the last time Nolan and Murphy worked together they created one of the best horror aspects of The Dark Knight trilogy with the Scarecrow character!
Let’s take a look through Cillian Murphy’s career in the horror/thriller genres…
28 Days Later (2002)
For many of us, 28 Days Later was our introduction to Cillian Murphy. Our full frontal introduction to Cillian Murphy. The camera pans down on a naked man in a hospital bed who wakes up (after presumably being hit by a car) to absolute nothingness. Everything and almost everyone has been...
- 7/20/2023
- by Mike Holtz
- bloody-disgusting.com
Bruce Willis’ wife Emma Heming Wills on the 35th anniversary of the legendary action film ‘Die Hard’, posted a heartfelt tribute to her husband. The Hollywood star stopped acting back in 2022 after being diagnosed with aphasia, but has since then become an action icon due to his role as John McClane in ‘Die Hard’. Amongst a plethora of other big films he’s done, the actor is well known for his roles in ‘Pulp Fiction’, ‘Sixth Sense’ and ‘Unbreakable’.
Taking to Instagram, Emma Wills shared a video of the family visiting a mural for the 1988 action blockbuster. She captioned: “Back in 2018 (when these videos and pictures were taken) we took Mabel and Evelyn to the Fox lot to peek at the archives as well as see the larger-than-life mural of their dad.”
She added, “This mural was unveiled in front of Bruce back in 2013 to commemorate Die Hard’s 25th anniversary.
Taking to Instagram, Emma Wills shared a video of the family visiting a mural for the 1988 action blockbuster. She captioned: “Back in 2018 (when these videos and pictures were taken) we took Mabel and Evelyn to the Fox lot to peek at the archives as well as see the larger-than-life mural of their dad.”
She added, “This mural was unveiled in front of Bruce back in 2013 to commemorate Die Hard’s 25th anniversary.
- 7/16/2023
- by Agency News Desk
- GlamSham
Bruce Willis in Die HardScreenshot: 20th Century Studios
When Die Hard hit theaters 35 years ago, it was like Christmas in July. The action classic, directed by John McTiernan and starring Bruce Willis, established a new standard for popcorn blockbusters when it opened wide on July 22, 1988. Willis’ leading man status was...
When Die Hard hit theaters 35 years ago, it was like Christmas in July. The action classic, directed by John McTiernan and starring Bruce Willis, established a new standard for popcorn blockbusters when it opened wide on July 22, 1988. Willis’ leading man status was...
- 7/15/2023
- by Eric Francisco
- avclub.com
What do you think of when you think about iconic scenes in movie history? Maybe you think of the “I’ll be back” scene in The Terminator– or maybe it’s the iconic exchange between John McClain and Hans Gruber in Die Hard. But in either case, one cannot mention iconic action movies without paying respects to the vault heist scene in 1996’s Mission: Impossible.
Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) is a secret agent for the Impossible Missions Force- he’s up against his biggest threat yet and has nobody to trust except for his few loyal friends. In the scene, Ethan must break into a maximum security vault to steal a floppy disc that could save the day- but of course, it’s never that simple. This scene offers a visual and audible intensity that has yet to be matched in any of the proceeding films to date. Featuring no music,...
Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) is a secret agent for the Impossible Missions Force- he’s up against his biggest threat yet and has nobody to trust except for his few loyal friends. In the scene, Ethan must break into a maximum security vault to steal a floppy disc that could save the day- but of course, it’s never that simple. This scene offers a visual and audible intensity that has yet to be matched in any of the proceeding films to date. Featuring no music,...
- 6/26/2023
- by Kier Gomes
- JoBlo.com
Soon, two of the biggest and most committed action stars will face off in "John Wick: Chapter 4." Hong Kong martial arts legend Donnie Yen is set to go up against Keanu Reeves' seemingly invincible hitman in a showdown that promises to be a highlight in a movie full of meticulously-crafted action. And despite being nearly 60 years old, Yen is as popular and limber as ever. He's also still passionate about his roles, maintaining a determination to go above and beyond, a trait he's possessed since his days spent working for Hong Kong kung fu director/choreographer Yuen Woo-ping.
The actor, perhaps best known for portraying the titular Wing Chun grandmaster in the "Ip Man" franchise, has always pushed himself. As a recent GQ profile recounted, coming up in the almost militaristic culture of Hong Kong cinema, Yen got used to pushing his limits when his Yuen clan of martial art...
The actor, perhaps best known for portraying the titular Wing Chun grandmaster in the "Ip Man" franchise, has always pushed himself. As a recent GQ profile recounted, coming up in the almost militaristic culture of Hong Kong cinema, Yen got used to pushing his limits when his Yuen clan of martial art...
- 3/1/2023
- by Joe Roberts
- Slash Film
Nigel Hawthorne was a revered actor of stage and screen, whose dignified presence elevated any project. Before his passing in 2001, he appeared in numerous Royal Shakespeare Company productions, and became a household name in the UK for his roles in popular BBC series "Yes, Minister" and "Yes, Prime Minister." The winner of six BAFTA awards, Hawthorne crafted a career as a respected character actor, performing on Broadway and appearing in acclaimed projects from Steven Spielberg's "Amistad" to the Ian McKellan-led "Richard III." He also did "Demolition Man."
A product of Sylvester Stallone's team-up with action producer extraordinaire, Joel Silver, "Demolition Man" is exactly the kind of over-the-top '90s blockbuster you'd expect to come out of that pairing. It's about John Spartan (Stallone), an LAPD cop who gets cryogenically frozen, only to be thawed out in 2032 to help track down his arch nemesis, Simon Phoenix (Wesley Snipes). Phoenix...
A product of Sylvester Stallone's team-up with action producer extraordinaire, Joel Silver, "Demolition Man" is exactly the kind of over-the-top '90s blockbuster you'd expect to come out of that pairing. It's about John Spartan (Stallone), an LAPD cop who gets cryogenically frozen, only to be thawed out in 2032 to help track down his arch nemesis, Simon Phoenix (Wesley Snipes). Phoenix...
- 2/25/2023
- by Joe Roberts
- Slash Film
Keanu Reeves has faced many villains in his career. He’s battled Agent Smith and the simulation itself in the Matrix series. Every John Wick movie has a new villain for him. In Speed, it was Jack Traven (Reeves) vs. bomber Howard Payne (Dennis Hopper). Originally, the Speed villain was Jack’s partner Harry (Jeff Daniels).
Jeff Daniels | Wendy Perl/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank/Getty Images
Speed screenwriter Graham Yost was on the Script Apart podcast on Aug. 17, 2021 to discuss his earlier drafts of the film. Yost explained how Harry would have worked as a villain, and why they changed it in later drafts.
The original ‘Speed’ script pit Keanu Reeves against a disgruntled partner
Yost’s first draft of Speed began the same way, with Harry and Jack working an elevator bombing. In the previous version, Harry became disgruntled and disillusioned after act one.
“So yes, the idea was...
Jeff Daniels | Wendy Perl/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank/Getty Images
Speed screenwriter Graham Yost was on the Script Apart podcast on Aug. 17, 2021 to discuss his earlier drafts of the film. Yost explained how Harry would have worked as a villain, and why they changed it in later drafts.
The original ‘Speed’ script pit Keanu Reeves against a disgruntled partner
Yost’s first draft of Speed began the same way, with Harry and Jack working an elevator bombing. In the previous version, Harry became disgruntled and disillusioned after act one.
“So yes, the idea was...
- 2/12/2023
- by Fred Topel
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Hogwarts Legacy is based on the Wizarding World universe created by J.K. Rowling. You can read more about Rowling’s history of transphobic remarks as well as find resources to support LGBTQ organizations here.
The Harry Potter films are full of iconic performances and memorable actors. Daniel Radcliffe became an international star when he landed the leading role as the titular Harry Potter, and Alan Rickman’s tenure as Professor Severus Snape is arguably his most famous role since he played Hans Gruber in Die Hard.
Hogwarts Legacy is an unwritten chapter of the magical Wizarding World, complete with new narratives, heroes, and villains. The game includes characters some fans may have seen or heard of, but those characters make up a fraction of the cast. For the most part, characters are portrayed by actors who are new to the Wizarding World, but, much like Alan Rickman, odds are good...
The Harry Potter films are full of iconic performances and memorable actors. Daniel Radcliffe became an international star when he landed the leading role as the titular Harry Potter, and Alan Rickman’s tenure as Professor Severus Snape is arguably his most famous role since he played Hans Gruber in Die Hard.
Hogwarts Legacy is an unwritten chapter of the magical Wizarding World, complete with new narratives, heroes, and villains. The game includes characters some fans may have seen or heard of, but those characters make up a fraction of the cast. For the most part, characters are portrayed by actors who are new to the Wizarding World, but, much like Alan Rickman, odds are good...
- 2/10/2023
- by Matthew Byrd
- Den of Geek
Henry Cavill's Dedication To Mission: Impossible – Fallout Changed The Way His Character Was Written
You might find it hard to believe, but amazingly, it's hard to keep pace with Tom Cruise when it comes to filming an action movie. Cruise, who at 60 is still pulling off stunts that would make even the "Jackass" guys have second thoughts, has never shied away from putting his body and life on the line in the name of cinematic spectacle. Never has this been more true than on the set of Cruise's "Mission: Impossible" films.
So when Henry Cavill signed up for "Mission: Impossible - Fallout," he must have felt a little bit of pressure to live up to Cruise's lofty (in some cases literally) standards.
While Cavill was never going to be asked to scale the Burj Khalifa or do some casual free solo climbing, the man whose mustache stirred up an internet's-worth of controversy was game to at least try to live up to his legendary costar's example.
So when Henry Cavill signed up for "Mission: Impossible - Fallout," he must have felt a little bit of pressure to live up to Cruise's lofty (in some cases literally) standards.
While Cavill was never going to be asked to scale the Burj Khalifa or do some casual free solo climbing, the man whose mustache stirred up an internet's-worth of controversy was game to at least try to live up to his legendary costar's example.
- 1/14/2023
- by Jeff Kelly
- Slash Film
In "Air Force One," Harrison Ford famously pushes a Russian terrorist out of a moving jet, growling the action movie one-liner, "Get off my plane!" However, if Hollywood history had gone a different way, it might not have been Ford's plane at all.
"Air Force One" was one of many action films in the 1990s to employ a "Die Hard" scenario whereby one man takes on a group of terrorists led by a guy with a foreign accent in a single location. Not content to simply be labeled "'Die Hard' on a plane", "Air Force" set itself apart from the rest of the pack by being "'Die Hard' on the President's plane." Its premise saw Ford playing President James Marshall, a Vietnam vet who makes a public pledge not to negotiate with terrorists, only to find his own private jet, Air Force One, hijacked by some.
Ford wasn't...
"Air Force One" was one of many action films in the 1990s to employ a "Die Hard" scenario whereby one man takes on a group of terrorists led by a guy with a foreign accent in a single location. Not content to simply be labeled "'Die Hard' on a plane", "Air Force" set itself apart from the rest of the pack by being "'Die Hard' on the President's plane." Its premise saw Ford playing President James Marshall, a Vietnam vet who makes a public pledge not to negotiate with terrorists, only to find his own private jet, Air Force One, hijacked by some.
Ford wasn't...
- 1/10/2023
- by Joshua Meyer
- Slash Film
Every December, classic 1988 action movie “Die Hard” is the subject of numerous debates and memes about its status (or lack thereof) as a Christmas film. This year, though, the Ukraine government is celebrating the film’s story for a very different reason.
In a tweet from the Defense of Ukraine Twitter account released Monday, the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine released an edited trailer for the Bruce Willis film, comparing the plot of the movie to this year’s invasion of the country from the Russian army. Set to “Carol of the Bells” from Ukrainian composer Mykola Leontovych and Frank Sinatra’s rendition of “Let it Snow,” the video cuts scenes from the film, which stars Bruce Willis as New York detective John McClane as he attempts to save hostages of a German terrorist takeover led by Hans Gruber (Alan Rickman), with text describing the plot.
“This Christmas, Ukraine celebrates...
In a tweet from the Defense of Ukraine Twitter account released Monday, the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine released an edited trailer for the Bruce Willis film, comparing the plot of the movie to this year’s invasion of the country from the Russian army. Set to “Carol of the Bells” from Ukrainian composer Mykola Leontovych and Frank Sinatra’s rendition of “Let it Snow,” the video cuts scenes from the film, which stars Bruce Willis as New York detective John McClane as he attempts to save hostages of a German terrorist takeover led by Hans Gruber (Alan Rickman), with text describing the plot.
“This Christmas, Ukraine celebrates...
- 12/26/2022
- by Wilson Chapman
- Indiewire
The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine has released a Christmas-themed video comparing the fight against Russia to the 1988 Bruce Willis-starrer Die Hard.
The clip features an edited version of a trailer for the 1988 action pic, with Ukraine touting its new Himars system (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) and insisting the “underdog” will win.
“This Christmas, Ukraine celebrates the festive story of how an arrogant terrorist’s special military operation was thwarted by a scrappy underdog,” reads the text at the beginning of the video. It’s posted on Twitter alongside the caption “An underdog who wins against the bad guys. This is the kind of story we all enjoy. Dedicated to all the die hards on the front line. Ukraine will win! Yippee Ki-Yay…!”
In the clip, Russia is represented by Alan Rickman’s character Hans Gruber and Willis’ John McClane represents Ukraine.
“It was the perfect plan with nothing left to chance,...
The clip features an edited version of a trailer for the 1988 action pic, with Ukraine touting its new Himars system (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) and insisting the “underdog” will win.
“This Christmas, Ukraine celebrates the festive story of how an arrogant terrorist’s special military operation was thwarted by a scrappy underdog,” reads the text at the beginning of the video. It’s posted on Twitter alongside the caption “An underdog who wins against the bad guys. This is the kind of story we all enjoy. Dedicated to all the die hards on the front line. Ukraine will win! Yippee Ki-Yay…!”
In the clip, Russia is represented by Alan Rickman’s character Hans Gruber and Willis’ John McClane represents Ukraine.
“It was the perfect plan with nothing left to chance,...
- 12/26/2022
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Before Batman, Bond, and seemingly everything else got the gritty reboot treatment in the early 2000s, Hollywood tried a similar thing with none other than Robin Hood. Unfortunately, 1991's "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves" didn't quite manage to pull off its attempt at a rebrand of the classic English hero. In fact, these days it's remembered more for Kevin Costner's magnificent mullet and what co-star Alan Rickman called its "glorious mixture of accents."
That said, it's not like there's nothing to love about "Robin Hood". The score's not bad and it was a cool idea to try to reimagine Robin Hood for the '90s. It just didn't really work out in the end, with the movie failing to garner any critical praise of note despite raking in an impressive £390 million at the global box office.
But if there's one undeniably great thing about the movie, it's Rickman, whose...
That said, it's not like there's nothing to love about "Robin Hood". The score's not bad and it was a cool idea to try to reimagine Robin Hood for the '90s. It just didn't really work out in the end, with the movie failing to garner any critical praise of note despite raking in an impressive £390 million at the global box office.
But if there's one undeniably great thing about the movie, it's Rickman, whose...
- 12/18/2022
- by Joe Roberts
- Slash Film
One word that comes to mind when you hear the title Die Hard is “definitive.” After all, it’s widely considered star Bruce Willis’ definitive role. Still, it’s also, arguably, the definitive action movie and even the definitive Christmas movie by some (in a debate that’s grown a bit tiresome). Indeed, Bruce Willis as John McClane, fighting terrorists in the Nakatomi skyscraper in Los Angeles, is a defining image of the eighties. Director John McTiernan, writers Steven E. De Souza and Jeb Stuart, and star Bruce Willis crafted a carnage-filled epic grounded by a very human hero – John McClane, who was a notable departure from the icons of the genre at the time, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone. McClane was no superman. Instead, he was human, flawed and broken-hearted over his failed marriage. His only goal was to rescue his estranged wife, Holly (Bonnie Bedelia) and get home for Christmas with his kids.
- 12/14/2022
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
I remember when the initial release of "John Wick" had folks curious about Keanu Reeves going into action mode to avenge the death of his adorable beagle. Nearly a decade later, however, the "John Wick" franchise has become a world with a rich mythology that goes beyond canine killers, and upcoming spin-offs like "Ballerina" and "The Continental" will open this universe up even further. One of the most interesting things about the "Wick" movies, however, is that there are no Hans Gruber-like masterminds behind the plots against Reeves' character, but rather antagonists who are pulling strings from a safe distance.
Michael Nyqvist, Alfie Allen, Riccardo Scamarcio, and Asia Kate Dillion have all played adversaries to Wick himself, but they're beholden to upholding the larger picture that is the High Table, an organization that's been around longer than most world institutions. In "John Wick: Chapter 4," it appears we have...
Michael Nyqvist, Alfie Allen, Riccardo Scamarcio, and Asia Kate Dillion have all played adversaries to Wick himself, but they're beholden to upholding the larger picture that is the High Table, an organization that's been around longer than most world institutions. In "John Wick: Chapter 4," it appears we have...
- 12/12/2022
- by Matthew Bilodeau
- Slash Film
If you never saw a Tim Burton adaptation of a Stephen Sondheim musical coming, you weren't alone. The director, who had made a career out of bringing his grim visions of loner life to the big screen, didn't necessarily seem like the kind of guy who would willingly adapt a work by the king of musical theater. But then, Burton was never one for orthodoxy, and as unlikely as his 2007 effort was, "Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber Of Fleet Street" stands as proof that even a Sondheim musical can be transformed into a standard Burton creep-fest.
Of course, the original stage musical was already dealing with some pretty creepy material itself. The subject matter, taken straight from the pages of a Victorian penny dreadful, was drenched in the kind of tragedy, melodrama, and horror that has defined the Burton brand throughout his career. In that sense, the director's 2007 adaptation kind of adds up.
Of course, the original stage musical was already dealing with some pretty creepy material itself. The subject matter, taken straight from the pages of a Victorian penny dreadful, was drenched in the kind of tragedy, melodrama, and horror that has defined the Burton brand throughout his career. In that sense, the director's 2007 adaptation kind of adds up.
- 12/12/2022
- by Joe Roberts
- Slash Film
Of all the action movie villains, Alan Rickman's Hans Gruber remains one of, if not the finest. His suave yet sinister take on the German terrorist in "Die Hard" endures due to Rickman's clear commitment to the role. The actor, who was at the time transitioning from an esteemed theater career, was obviously determined to portray Gruber convincingly, despite his initial reservations about doing an action movie.
That commitment extended to doing his own stunts, including Gruber's dramatic fall from the roof of the Nakatomi Tower in the film's final moments. Even before he'd stepped on set, Rickman read the original script and suggested his character wear a suit rather than the "terrorist gear" that was written, demonstrating a thoughtful approach prior to a single scene being shot.
Unfortunately, when Rickman did come to shoot an actual scene — his first movie scene ever — he immediately injured himself. In fact,...
That commitment extended to doing his own stunts, including Gruber's dramatic fall from the roof of the Nakatomi Tower in the film's final moments. Even before he'd stepped on set, Rickman read the original script and suggested his character wear a suit rather than the "terrorist gear" that was written, demonstrating a thoughtful approach prior to a single scene being shot.
Unfortunately, when Rickman did come to shoot an actual scene — his first movie scene ever — he immediately injured himself. In fact,...
- 12/10/2022
- by Joe Roberts
- Slash Film
There are certain movies where the film's setting is just as iconic as its characters. Take the houses from "Home Alone" and "A Nightmare on Elm Street," for example. Both of those abodes are so memorable for the way they dominate the screen that they should almost have their own acting credit listed at the end of the movie. Setting can really make or break a film, so it's really important that filmmakers get it right when they're out scouting for locations, and another film that absolutely nailed this is none other than director John McTiernan's "Die Hard." That's right, we're talking about Nakatomi Plaza.
Over the years, "Die Hard" has become essential Christmas viewing despite the film having a surprising lack of festive cheer. Yes, technically it does take place at a Christmas party on Christmas Eve, but honestly, it's really not the kind of movie you think...
Over the years, "Die Hard" has become essential Christmas viewing despite the film having a surprising lack of festive cheer. Yes, technically it does take place at a Christmas party on Christmas Eve, but honestly, it's really not the kind of movie you think...
- 12/7/2022
- by Miyako Pleines
- Slash Film
It’s no secret that folks love to watch Santa Claus break bad. Despite being literally called “Father Christmas” in some cultures, this often rosy-cheeked symbol of generosity from childhood eventually becomes many an adult’s favorite villain: the crazed serial killer with an ax in Silent Night, Deadly Night; or the drunkard who urinates on himself at the mall in Bad Santa.
While some of those movies are better than others (namely the first Billy Bob Thornton iteration of a Yuletide lush), all of them seem to forget that, deep down, we still want to believe that Santa and the season he represents should be depicted as a force for good. Maturity comes in recognizing the world is more complex than a handful of flurries in a snow globe, but Santa need not be. Hence the ingenuity of screenwriters Pat Casey and Josh Miller’s million-dollar-idea: What if Santa...
While some of those movies are better than others (namely the first Billy Bob Thornton iteration of a Yuletide lush), all of them seem to forget that, deep down, we still want to believe that Santa and the season he represents should be depicted as a force for good. Maturity comes in recognizing the world is more complex than a handful of flurries in a snow globe, but Santa need not be. Hence the ingenuity of screenwriters Pat Casey and Josh Miller’s million-dollar-idea: What if Santa...
- 12/1/2022
- by David Crow
- Den of Geek
For those of us still suffering from seasonal depression and the post-Halloween blues, it's uplifting when the holiday season is starting to move away from idealized family fare to embrace the horror genre a little more during the winter months. Compiling a list of 31 horror movies to watch every day in October isn't really considered a difficult task due to the sheer amount of titles to choose from. Now, it's starting to be considerably easier to come up with 25 horror movies to watch over the month of December as a kind of twisted version of an advent calendar. In fact, there's even a French holiday horror movie called "The Advent Calendar" that would be a perfect kickoff for a potential viewing guide. (/Film's list ranking the best Christmas horror should also help you on your quest.)
Setting off the month of December with a glorious bang this year is the...
Setting off the month of December with a glorious bang this year is the...
- 11/30/2022
- by Drew Tinnin
- Slash Film
The Film
For every movie fan there are probably several films they can count as milestones, movies that became big parts of our viewing, even of our lives. Robin Hood Prince of Thieves was one of those for me. It came out at the perfect time, when I was 10. The screenplay had simple heroism, the villain was an obvious baddie you could boo and hiss at if the mood took you, there was plenty of action and even as a cut PG, it stretched the edges of its certification to a point that was an intense and sometimes scary experience for a relatively young kid. I loved it. Along with Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves became one of my first favourite movies. It was one of the reasons we first got a TV for the house, and a Vcr to go with it, and...
For every movie fan there are probably several films they can count as milestones, movies that became big parts of our viewing, even of our lives. Robin Hood Prince of Thieves was one of those for me. It came out at the perfect time, when I was 10. The screenplay had simple heroism, the villain was an obvious baddie you could boo and hiss at if the mood took you, there was plenty of action and even as a cut PG, it stretched the edges of its certification to a point that was an intense and sometimes scary experience for a relatively young kid. I loved it. Along with Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves became one of my first favourite movies. It was one of the reasons we first got a TV for the house, and a Vcr to go with it, and...
- 11/30/2022
- by Sam Inglis
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
“Violent Night” is one of the Yuletide season’s most delightful surprises, not just for what it gets right but also for the many ways the whole production could have gone very, very wrong.
For starters, it’s a movie about Santa Claus, and for every “Miracle on 34th Street,” the history of Christmas movies is littered with tales of Saint Nick that could make a moviegoer hate the holiday. (“Santa Claus Conquers the Martians” or “Santa Claus: The Movie” leap to mind.)
It’s also a film that demands to be taken seriously on its own merits even as it blatantly references other Christmas classics — first and foremost, “Die Hard” and “Home Alone” — and it dares to mix bloody, hard-r action violence with a sentimental subplot about a young girl’s unwavering belief in Santa Claus. That it gets away with all of this and stays gorily entertaining and...
For starters, it’s a movie about Santa Claus, and for every “Miracle on 34th Street,” the history of Christmas movies is littered with tales of Saint Nick that could make a moviegoer hate the holiday. (“Santa Claus Conquers the Martians” or “Santa Claus: The Movie” leap to mind.)
It’s also a film that demands to be taken seriously on its own merits even as it blatantly references other Christmas classics — first and foremost, “Die Hard” and “Home Alone” — and it dares to mix bloody, hard-r action violence with a sentimental subplot about a young girl’s unwavering belief in Santa Claus. That it gets away with all of this and stays gorily entertaining and...
- 11/30/2022
- by Alonso Duralde
- The Wrap
Most holiday seasons, we get some sort of theatrically-released Christmas movie that aims to not only succeed in the moment, but become something that can endure annually for years to come. It feels like it's been a while since we've had a bonafide holiday classic, but "Violent Night" feels like it could turn the tide. What's not to love about the idea of "Stranger Things" favorite David Harbour as an R-rated Santa Claus who isn't afraid to take out some bad guys? Speaking of those bad guys, it's not just going to be one man at the top with nameless, faceless henchmen. All of the bad guys are going to have something to do here.
This was important to director Tommy Wirkola, the man responsible for bringing the film to life. /Film's own Bill Bria recently spoke to the filmmaker about his latest effort, and the subject of the henchmen came up.
This was important to director Tommy Wirkola, the man responsible for bringing the film to life. /Film's own Bill Bria recently spoke to the filmmaker about his latest effort, and the subject of the henchmen came up.
- 11/29/2022
- by Ryan Scott
- Slash Film
Actor Clarence Gilyard Jr., who co-starred as James Trivette on CBS’ Walker, Texas Ranger, has died at the age of 66.
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas, where Gilyard had been a film professor since 2006, announced the actor’s death in a press release on Monday. A cause of death was not given, but Gilyard had reportedly been battling a long illness.
More from TVLineWillow Review: Disney+ Sequel Series Is Worth the Wait -- Fun, Accessible Fantasy at Its Most CharmingThe Voice Recap: Did Viewers Pick the Right Top 8 to Go to the Semi-Finals?Colin Donnell Previews His Irreverent Journey From...
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas, where Gilyard had been a film professor since 2006, announced the actor’s death in a press release on Monday. A cause of death was not given, but Gilyard had reportedly been battling a long illness.
More from TVLineWillow Review: Disney+ Sequel Series Is Worth the Wait -- Fun, Accessible Fantasy at Its Most CharmingThe Voice Recap: Did Viewers Pick the Right Top 8 to Go to the Semi-Finals?Colin Donnell Previews His Irreverent Journey From...
- 11/29/2022
- by Rebecca Iannucci
- TVLine.com
Clarence Gilyard, a veteran actor who had notable roles in Die Hard, Matlock and Walker, Texas Ranger who would later become a theater professor and author, has died. He was 66.
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas College of Fine Arts, where Gilyard taught, announced his death on Monday afternoon, according to the Las Vegas Review-Journal. He had been suffering from a long illness. No further details were released.
In a rich and varied career that spanned five decades, Gilyard achieved success in film, television and on stage. For film fans, he is perhaps best known for playing Theo, Hans Gruber’s cocky computer hacker in 1988’s Die Hard. In the 1990s, Gilyard was a familiar face on primetime television, first for playing private investigator Conrad McMasters on the legal drama Matlock and then, in a career-defining role, as Ranger James Trivette in the long-running series Walker, Texas Ranger.
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas College of Fine Arts, where Gilyard taught, announced his death on Monday afternoon, according to the Las Vegas Review-Journal. He had been suffering from a long illness. No further details were released.
In a rich and varied career that spanned five decades, Gilyard achieved success in film, television and on stage. For film fans, he is perhaps best known for playing Theo, Hans Gruber’s cocky computer hacker in 1988’s Die Hard. In the 1990s, Gilyard was a familiar face on primetime television, first for playing private investigator Conrad McMasters on the legal drama Matlock and then, in a career-defining role, as Ranger James Trivette in the long-running series Walker, Texas Ranger.
- 11/29/2022
- by Abid Rahman
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Clarence Gilyard Jr., a prolific actor best known for his pivotal, series-long role on “Walker, Texas Ranger” and for his scene-stealing turn as Theo, the heist crew’s hacker in “Die Hard,” died Monday following a long illness. He was 66.
In addition to his acclaimed career, Gilyard was a professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
“Professor Gilyard was a beacon of light and strength for everyone around him. Whenever we asked him how he was, he would cheerfully declare that he was ‘Blessed!’ But we are truly the ones who were blessed to be his colleagues and students for so many years. We love you and will miss you dearly, Professor G!,” Unlv film chair Heather Addison said in a statement Monday.
The Las Vegas Review-Journal first reported the news.
Also Read:
Nick Holly, Literary Agent and Co-Creator of ABC Comedy Series ‘Sons & Daughters,’ Dies at 51
Born in 1955 in Moses Lake,...
In addition to his acclaimed career, Gilyard was a professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
“Professor Gilyard was a beacon of light and strength for everyone around him. Whenever we asked him how he was, he would cheerfully declare that he was ‘Blessed!’ But we are truly the ones who were blessed to be his colleagues and students for so many years. We love you and will miss you dearly, Professor G!,” Unlv film chair Heather Addison said in a statement Monday.
The Las Vegas Review-Journal first reported the news.
Also Read:
Nick Holly, Literary Agent and Co-Creator of ABC Comedy Series ‘Sons & Daughters,’ Dies at 51
Born in 1955 in Moses Lake,...
- 11/29/2022
- by Ross A. Lincoln
- The Wrap
The 1988 action film "Die Hard" is the movie that turned the late Alan Rickman into a household name. He played Hans Gruber, a criminal mastermind who holds an office building hostage during a company Christmas party. Gruber has a scheme to steal 600 million, and he has no qualms about killing people to get it. There's a lot of reasons the movie works so well, but the back-and-forth between Gruber and John McClane (Bruce Willis) is a core part of what makes it a beloved classic.
Although Rickman was not well-known at the time of filming, and this was his first ever major role in an action movie, that didn't stop him from giving his thoughts to the writers and directors. In a 2015 interview, Rickman recalled making a suggestion to producer Joel Silver, saying it would be far more interesting for Gruber to be wearing a suit in the scene where...
Although Rickman was not well-known at the time of filming, and this was his first ever major role in an action movie, that didn't stop him from giving his thoughts to the writers and directors. In a 2015 interview, Rickman recalled making a suggestion to producer Joel Silver, saying it would be far more interesting for Gruber to be wearing a suit in the scene where...
- 11/28/2022
- by Michael Boyle
- Slash Film
Much has been made of "Die Hard" and its enduring charm as not just a quintessential '80s blockbuster but one of the finest action movies ever made. There's a lot to love about the 1988 mega-hit that propelled Bruce Willis from TV comedy to action movie fame. Just as memorable as Willis' lovable everyman cop is Alan Rickman's Hans Gruber, the film's antagonist (or protagonist if you ask the film's writer) and mastermind of the siege on Nakatomi Tower.
Rickman began his career in the theater, having studied at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and making a real name for himself on the theater circuit. When it came time to make the leap to movies, he was initially hesitant to accept his now legendary "Die Hard" role. Once the actor eventually came onboard, he approached the job with the same dedication he had applied to his theater career,...
Rickman began his career in the theater, having studied at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and making a real name for himself on the theater circuit. When it came time to make the leap to movies, he was initially hesitant to accept his now legendary "Die Hard" role. Once the actor eventually came onboard, he approached the job with the same dedication he had applied to his theater career,...
- 11/25/2022
- by Joe Roberts
- Slash Film
Stars: Idris Elba, Iyana Halley, Leah Jeffries, Sharlto Copley, Martin Munro, Thapelo Sebogodi, Chris Langa, Mduduzi Mavimbela, Kazi Khuboni | Written by Ryan Engle | Directed by Baltasar Kormákur
Despite a poor script that makes the film too predictable, Beast offers up enough lion thrills to keep you entertained for the 90-minute run time.
Idris Elba plays Nate, a father who’s on a trip to Africa with his two teenage daughters. Things soon take a frighting turn for the family when they find themselves hunted by a massive rogue lion. The film really shines once it gets into the lion attack. Director Baltasar Kormákur (2 Guns) uses some creative camera work and the film flourishes with multiple brilliant tracking shots. Once the action hits you get lost in the moment and it leads to some edge-of-your-seat set pieces. Kormákur does a wonderful job of building the tension and making the lion as...
Despite a poor script that makes the film too predictable, Beast offers up enough lion thrills to keep you entertained for the 90-minute run time.
Idris Elba plays Nate, a father who’s on a trip to Africa with his two teenage daughters. Things soon take a frighting turn for the family when they find themselves hunted by a massive rogue lion. The film really shines once it gets into the lion attack. Director Baltasar Kormákur (2 Guns) uses some creative camera work and the film flourishes with multiple brilliant tracking shots. Once the action hits you get lost in the moment and it leads to some edge-of-your-seat set pieces. Kormákur does a wonderful job of building the tension and making the lion as...
- 11/24/2022
- by Alex Ginnelly
- Nerdly
When we consider John Malkovich playing a parody of himself in "Being John Malkovich," there comes the question: Why John Malkovich? Why not "Being Kurt Russell" or "Being Alan Rickman," for instance? Screenwriter Charlie Kaufman answered this, saying there was no other actor in mind when he wrote the script, due to Malkovich's "quality of unknowability" (via Rolling Stone).
And there we have the main draw of John Malkovich as a Hollywood actor, a visage that is instantly recognizable yet as inscrutable as the great stone faces of Easter Island. There isn't anyone else remotely like him, which adds to his enigma. Although he had hair when starting out, he's better known for that magnificent bald dome that hints at a mercurial intellect. Beneath that, there is the interrogative, simian brow that can measure degrees of rage or contempt by how many lines Malkovich furrows into it; then the beady yet penetrating eyes,...
And there we have the main draw of John Malkovich as a Hollywood actor, a visage that is instantly recognizable yet as inscrutable as the great stone faces of Easter Island. There isn't anyone else remotely like him, which adds to his enigma. Although he had hair when starting out, he's better known for that magnificent bald dome that hints at a mercurial intellect. Beneath that, there is the interrogative, simian brow that can measure degrees of rage or contempt by how many lines Malkovich furrows into it; then the beady yet penetrating eyes,...
- 11/14/2022
- by Lee Adams
- Slash Film
Daniel Radcliffe has shared his own experience of reading Alan Rickman’s posthumously published diaries.
The late actor, who played Severus Snape in the Harry Potter films and died in 2016, kept a pocket diary from 1972.
They were published in October, in a memoir titled Madly, Deeply: The Alan Rickman Diaries.
Appearing on Watch What Happens Live on Monday (7 November), Radcliffe was asked about reading about filming the fantasy series from his older co-star’s perspective.
“All the stuff that Alan wrote, it was very lovely and nostalgic reading his comments about us, being like, ‘These kids need to learn their lines, that’s kind of a nightmare right now’, all of that stuff,” Radcliffe said.
“[It went] through to us meeting when I was over here doing a play and we met. It was very sweet to read all of that.”
Elsewhere on the show, Radcliffe spoke about another late Harry Potter...
The late actor, who played Severus Snape in the Harry Potter films and died in 2016, kept a pocket diary from 1972.
They were published in October, in a memoir titled Madly, Deeply: The Alan Rickman Diaries.
Appearing on Watch What Happens Live on Monday (7 November), Radcliffe was asked about reading about filming the fantasy series from his older co-star’s perspective.
“All the stuff that Alan wrote, it was very lovely and nostalgic reading his comments about us, being like, ‘These kids need to learn their lines, that’s kind of a nightmare right now’, all of that stuff,” Radcliffe said.
“[It went] through to us meeting when I was over here doing a play and we met. It was very sweet to read all of that.”
Elsewhere on the show, Radcliffe spoke about another late Harry Potter...
- 11/8/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - Film
Among the great movie villains -- the likes of Biff Tannen, Hans Gruber, Nurse Ratched, your odd slasher icon -- Carter J. Burke of "Aliens" is not the most intimidating, but certainly one of the slimiest. Played by Paul Reiser (recently seen in "Stranger Things"), Burke is the weasel-esque company man representing the interests of the Weyland-Yutani Corporation. Those who have seen Ridley Scott's 1979 predecessor "Alien" know the company to be ruthless; Special Order 937 seen in the film sets the highest priority on bringing the organism of the title back for analysis, while the crew battling the creature was deemed "expendable." Not much has changed in "Aliens," which sees the company send in Colonial Marines along with "Alien" survivor Ellen Ripley (Sigourney Weaver) to an exoplanet where a terraforming colony has lost contact.
With screen credits such as "Diner" and the first "Beverly Hills Cop" movie to his name...
With screen credits such as "Diner" and the first "Beverly Hills Cop" movie to his name...
- 10/29/2022
- by Anya Stanley
- Slash Film
The longer that “Rick and Morty” goes on, the more weight it carries. That often comes in the form of expectations. It also now has almost six full seasons of ideas it’s already tried, one-off chips it’s already cashed in, and character layers that are a lot easier to take off than they are to add on.
It’s not like “Rick and Morty” is this sacrosanct bit of culture that can’t be toyed with. The show itself is quick to joke about the ways it’s fudged canon and reworked certain ideas over time. But as is inevitable for something as unwieldy and obsessed over as it is for a notable chunk of its audience, this show was always destined to fold in on itself. In its impressive Season 6 — on temporary hiatus until toward the end of next month — “Rick and Morty” has figured out how...
It’s not like “Rick and Morty” is this sacrosanct bit of culture that can’t be toyed with. The show itself is quick to joke about the ways it’s fudged canon and reworked certain ideas over time. But as is inevitable for something as unwieldy and obsessed over as it is for a notable chunk of its audience, this show was always destined to fold in on itself. In its impressive Season 6 — on temporary hiatus until toward the end of next month — “Rick and Morty” has figured out how...
- 10/11/2022
- by Steve Greene
- Indiewire
Tom Felton remembered provoking the famous ire of Alan Rickman on the set of the Harry Potter movies.
The Draco Malfoy actor gave the anecdote in a new promotional video posted on social media ahead of the release of his upcoming memoir, Beyond the Wand: The Magic and Mayhem of Growing Up a Wizard.
“Eventually, I was told in no uncertain terms by Alan Rickman: ‘Don’t step on my f***ing cloak’,” Felton recalled of the late actor who played Professor Severus Snape across the film saga.
“ sort of giggled, death eaters and I looked at each other and thought, ‘Is he joking?’ It quickly became apparent: he’s totally not joking.
“Next take, the director was very keen for me to walk as close as I can to Alan. We got about halfway through the Great Hall before [mimes stepping on Rickman’s cloak]. You have to bear in mind his cloak’s attached...
The Draco Malfoy actor gave the anecdote in a new promotional video posted on social media ahead of the release of his upcoming memoir, Beyond the Wand: The Magic and Mayhem of Growing Up a Wizard.
“Eventually, I was told in no uncertain terms by Alan Rickman: ‘Don’t step on my f***ing cloak’,” Felton recalled of the late actor who played Professor Severus Snape across the film saga.
“ sort of giggled, death eaters and I looked at each other and thought, ‘Is he joking?’ It quickly became apparent: he’s totally not joking.
“Next take, the director was very keen for me to walk as close as I can to Alan. We got about halfway through the Great Hall before [mimes stepping on Rickman’s cloak]. You have to bear in mind his cloak’s attached...
- 10/8/2022
- by Tom Murray
- The Independent - Film
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