Exclusive: Skydance Animation has tapped Bruce Anderson in the newly created role of Head of Production.
The producer of Ferdinand and the Rio franchise will oversee production planning for animation production and physical delivery of Skydance Animation’s slate of feature films.
Most recently, Anderson served as producer of Skydance Animation’s upcoming animated musical-fantasy Spellbound which premieres later this year on Netflix.
“Bruce is a true collaborator who brings care and attention to every project he touches,” said Holly Edwards, President, Skydance Animation. “As we prepare for the release of Spellbound and continue to ramp up production on our other features in the pipeline, we are thrilled to have Bruce joining the team as Head of Production.”
In 2023, Skydance Animation formed a multi-year partnership with Netflix to develop and produce animated movies to be released directly on the streamer which brought Skydance’s full slate of existing animated features including the upcoming films Spellbound,...
The producer of Ferdinand and the Rio franchise will oversee production planning for animation production and physical delivery of Skydance Animation’s slate of feature films.
Most recently, Anderson served as producer of Skydance Animation’s upcoming animated musical-fantasy Spellbound which premieres later this year on Netflix.
“Bruce is a true collaborator who brings care and attention to every project he touches,” said Holly Edwards, President, Skydance Animation. “As we prepare for the release of Spellbound and continue to ramp up production on our other features in the pipeline, we are thrilled to have Bruce joining the team as Head of Production.”
In 2023, Skydance Animation formed a multi-year partnership with Netflix to develop and produce animated movies to be released directly on the streamer which brought Skydance’s full slate of existing animated features including the upcoming films Spellbound,...
- 5/9/2024
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Brian Blessed speaks – well, booms – to Empire about the formidable Gungan leader.
“It took your bloody head off!” bellows Brian Blessed down the phone line, as only he can. The legendarily bushy-bearded 87-year-old actor is recounting for Empire the first time he saw Star Wars: in 1977, having been made aware of the film from a “great big billboard at Snow Hill railway station in Birmingham”, Blessed sallied forth to the first cinema he could find. An avowed science-fiction nerd and keen space enthusiast — “I am actually a fully trained astronaut”, he notes several times during our conversation — he found himself transfixed. “Here was something totally, completely original. It was by far the finest science-fiction film I’d ever seen.”
Blessed hoped to be cast in the original trilogy, but suspects his iconic role in the similarly space- operatic Flash Gordon in 1980 may have gotten in the way. It wasn’t until the late ’90s,...
“It took your bloody head off!” bellows Brian Blessed down the phone line, as only he can. The legendarily bushy-bearded 87-year-old actor is recounting for Empire the first time he saw Star Wars: in 1977, having been made aware of the film from a “great big billboard at Snow Hill railway station in Birmingham”, Blessed sallied forth to the first cinema he could find. An avowed science-fiction nerd and keen space enthusiast — “I am actually a fully trained astronaut”, he notes several times during our conversation — he found himself transfixed. “Here was something totally, completely original. It was by far the finest science-fiction film I’d ever seen.”
Blessed hoped to be cast in the original trilogy, but suspects his iconic role in the similarly space- operatic Flash Gordon in 1980 may have gotten in the way. It wasn’t until the late ’90s,...
- 5/3/2024
- by John Nugent
- Empire - Movies
Summertime is the best time to transport yourself into a nostalgic world, as Freeform celebrates 30 Days of Disney with legendary Disney films starting June 1. Viewers can relive their childhood with films from the full Disney catalog, including Disney-Pixar’s Inside Out, National Treasure, Avatar, Spider-Man (2002), and many more.
The programming event will also feature the world television premiere of Disney-Pixar’s animated film Lightyear. Other Freeform premieres include Disney-Pixar’s Soul and Disney Animation’s Fantasia (1940 and 2000).
Throughout each week in June, fans can reminisce with special summer marathons that will stir up fond memories and reconnect them with the films they cherish.
During the first weekend of June, you can check out your Disney “faves” with classic films like Disney Animation’s Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, and The Little Mermaid (1989). During the second weekend, check out your Pixar faves with movies like Inside Out, Coco, and Cars.
Celebrate...
The programming event will also feature the world television premiere of Disney-Pixar’s animated film Lightyear. Other Freeform premieres include Disney-Pixar’s Soul and Disney Animation’s Fantasia (1940 and 2000).
Throughout each week in June, fans can reminisce with special summer marathons that will stir up fond memories and reconnect them with the films they cherish.
During the first weekend of June, you can check out your Disney “faves” with classic films like Disney Animation’s Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, and The Little Mermaid (1989). During the second weekend, check out your Pixar faves with movies like Inside Out, Coco, and Cars.
Celebrate...
- 5/1/2024
- by Mirko Parlevliet
- Vital Thrills
Brendan Fraser’s The Mummy is celebrating its 25th birthday, with the first part being released in 1999. Since then, the film has become part of a series, with the release of The Mummy Returns and The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor. Three movies were not enough for some fans, however, as many have been begging for more additions to the story, even though the last part was released more than ten years ago.
Brendan Fraser as Rick O’Connell
It would seem that their prayers have been heard, as the director of the first two films and the producer of the third, Stephen Sommers, revealed his thoughts on coming back for another movie.
SUGGESTED10 Times Movie Critics Were Horribly Wrong: Even Brendan Fraser’s The Mummy Was Not Safe From Awful Reviews
Interestingly enough, the director is completely open to the idea. He does have one condition though.
Brendan Fraser...
Brendan Fraser as Rick O’Connell
It would seem that their prayers have been heard, as the director of the first two films and the producer of the third, Stephen Sommers, revealed his thoughts on coming back for another movie.
SUGGESTED10 Times Movie Critics Were Horribly Wrong: Even Brendan Fraser’s The Mummy Was Not Safe From Awful Reviews
Interestingly enough, the director is completely open to the idea. He does have one condition though.
Brendan Fraser...
- 4/24/2024
- by Ananya Godboley
- FandomWire
Kent Melton, the animation sculptor who created maquettes made of clay for iconic characters found in movies including Aladdin, The Lion King, Mulan, The Incredibles and Coraline, has died. He was 68.
Melton died Thursday at his home in Stone County, Missouri, of Lewy body dementia, family members told The Hollywood Reporter.
One of the few artists left in the industry who still sculpted in clay, Melton was a key player in the Disney animation renaissance of the 1990s. Later, he helped Laika Studios become a stop-motion powerhouse. Along the way, he was entrusted by animators to bring their two-dimensional drawings into a three-dimensional world.
Melton’s first Disney credit came on Aladdin (1992), followed by work on such other studio films as Thumbelina (1994), The Lion King (1994), Pocahontas (1995), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996), Hercules (1997), Mulan (1998), The Prince of Egypt (1998), Tarzan (1999), The Road to El Dorado (2000), Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001), Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron...
Melton died Thursday at his home in Stone County, Missouri, of Lewy body dementia, family members told The Hollywood Reporter.
One of the few artists left in the industry who still sculpted in clay, Melton was a key player in the Disney animation renaissance of the 1990s. Later, he helped Laika Studios become a stop-motion powerhouse. Along the way, he was entrusted by animators to bring their two-dimensional drawings into a three-dimensional world.
Melton’s first Disney credit came on Aladdin (1992), followed by work on such other studio films as Thumbelina (1994), The Lion King (1994), Pocahontas (1995), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996), Hercules (1997), Mulan (1998), The Prince of Egypt (1998), Tarzan (1999), The Road to El Dorado (2000), Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001), Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron...
- 2/22/2024
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
It's a fine time to be Alexander Skarsgård and Margot Robbie. The former is coming off starring in Brandon Cronenberg's well-received sci-fi horror movie "Infinity Pool" and reprised his role as the detestable slimeball Lukas Matsson in the final season of "Succession" to great effect. Meanwhile, Robbie anchored last year's "Barbie" -- which is now a Best Picture Oscar nominee in addition to being the top-grossing film of 2023 -- and produced Emerald Fennell's internet-breaking "Saltburn" after nearly stealing Wes Anderson's "Asteroid City" with her moving single-scene appearance. Someone should really cast those two in a movie together!
Well, what, dear reader, if I was to tell you that somebody already did?
While Robbie may have been unduly snubbed for her performance in "Barbie," she can take solace in knowing she's currently topping the charts on Netflix thanks to her and Skarsgård's 2016 vehicle "The Legend of Tarzan." I'm...
Well, what, dear reader, if I was to tell you that somebody already did?
While Robbie may have been unduly snubbed for her performance in "Barbie," she can take solace in knowing she's currently topping the charts on Netflix thanks to her and Skarsgård's 2016 vehicle "The Legend of Tarzan." I'm...
- 1/25/2024
- by Sandy Schaefer
- Slash Film
Tisa Farrow, the actress who appeared in such 1970s films as James Toback’s Fingers and William Richert’s Winter Kills, has died, her sister Mia Farrow announced. She was 72.
She died unexpectedly on Wednesday, “apparently in her sleep,” Mia Farrow reported on Instagram.
“If there is a Heaven, undoubtedly my beautiful sister Tisa is being welcomed there,” she wrote. “She was the best of us — I have never met a more generous and loving person. She loved life & never complained. Ever.”
Tisa Farrow made her onscreen debut in Homer (1970), portraying the girlfriend of a high school student (Don Scardino) deeply affected by the Vietnam War, and she also starred in the low-budget horror films Zombie (1979), directed by Lucio Fulci, and Anthropophagus (1980).
In her most prominent role, Farrow played a woman who has a kinky romance with a disturbed loner (Harvey Keitel) in writer-director Toback’s Fingers (1978). She then showed...
She died unexpectedly on Wednesday, “apparently in her sleep,” Mia Farrow reported on Instagram.
“If there is a Heaven, undoubtedly my beautiful sister Tisa is being welcomed there,” she wrote. “She was the best of us — I have never met a more generous and loving person. She loved life & never complained. Ever.”
Tisa Farrow made her onscreen debut in Homer (1970), portraying the girlfriend of a high school student (Don Scardino) deeply affected by the Vietnam War, and she also starred in the low-budget horror films Zombie (1979), directed by Lucio Fulci, and Anthropophagus (1980).
In her most prominent role, Farrow played a woman who has a kinky romance with a disturbed loner (Harvey Keitel) in writer-director Toback’s Fingers (1978). She then showed...
- 1/12/2024
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Like many children born in the 1990s, I was blessed with the many animated wonders of Disney, shaped by numerous heartwarming, educational stories. Now, as an adult, I still maintain high levels of enthusiasm and anticipation for each new Disney Animation release, especially original movies. Under the guidance of directors Chris Buck & Fawn Veerasunthorn (head of story on Raya and the Last Dragon), two well-known names in animation with multiple creative at the studio, Wish combines the storytelling craftsmanship of the former, with the exciting directorial debut of Veerasunthorn, whose previous credits involve valuable contributions to many of Disney's beloved stories. // Continue Reading ›...
- 12/10/2023
- by Manuel São Bento
- firstshowing.net
More than 50 representatives from across the UK industry will also make the trip to Jeddah.
A group of UK producers, distributors and sales agents are on the ground in Jeddah at this week’s Red Sea International Film Festival, looking to increase the number of UK-Saudi film co-productions.
The delegation has been organised by the British Council, which has taken a booth at the Red Sea Souk industry platform (Dec 2-5), with the help of the festival’s organisers. Attending UK industry will take part in panels, meet Saudi and international financiers, join events at the Souk, and present film projects from their slates.
A group of UK producers, distributors and sales agents are on the ground in Jeddah at this week’s Red Sea International Film Festival, looking to increase the number of UK-Saudi film co-productions.
The delegation has been organised by the British Council, which has taken a booth at the Red Sea Souk industry platform (Dec 2-5), with the help of the festival’s organisers. Attending UK industry will take part in panels, meet Saudi and international financiers, join events at the Souk, and present film projects from their slates.
- 11/30/2023
- by Ben Dalton
- ScreenDaily
Disney‘s latest animated feature, “Wish” explores a kingdom where a self-centered ruler (Chris Pine) keeps wishes and dreams captive so that they cannot be fully realized. It’s a theme that spoke to the film’s composer, Dave Metzger, who himself fulfilled a lifelong dream when he came on board to score “Wish” — his first major theatrical feature after decades of work as an orchestrator and arranger. “My dream since I was 16 years old was to be the composer on a major film,” Metzger told IndieWire. “At this point, I thought it wasn’t going to happen. I really thought that the ship had sailed and I was never going to have that opportunity.”
When the film’s music producer, Matt Walker, called Metzger to tell him he was being considered for the job, Metzger was delighted but taken aback. “I was just shocked,” he said. “Though I’ve...
When the film’s music producer, Matt Walker, called Metzger to tell him he was being considered for the job, Metzger was delighted but taken aback. “I was just shocked,” he said. “Though I’ve...
- 11/27/2023
- by Jim Hemphill
- Indiewire
With this year being the 100 year anniversary of The Walt Disney Company and the release of their latest animated title, Wish, we wanted to know what animated Disney film has been your favorite over the years? We stuck to films specifically released by Disney, so no Pixar titles are included. What struck me while compiling the list is the progression of their films. From the innocence of their early work to what many consider their heyday in the early 90’s to the emergence of the CGI era. For many of us, Disney films defined our youth, but which is the one that has remained with you all these years? As always, if you don’t see your favorite listed, please click “Other” and let us know what it is in the comments section as well as any fond memories you have of these timeless classics.
What is your favorite Disney Animated Film?...
What is your favorite Disney Animated Film?...
- 11/26/2023
- by Brad Hamerly
- JoBlo.com
To celebrate its well-earned 100th anniversary, the Walt Disney Animation Studios (hereinafter "Disney Studios") turned over its latest animation effort, Wish, to one of their veteran, in-house A-teams, Frozen co-director Chris Buck and co-writer Jennifer Lee. Together with first-timer Fawn Veerasunthorn sharing co-directing duties with Buck, screenwriter Allison Moore doing the same with Lee on scripting duties (plus an assortment of credited and uncredited writers), and the best animation Disney’s money can buy, Wish delivers handsome, eye-catching visuals, hummable songs two or three steps above mediocre (all ably performed by the voice cast), and the now obligatory self-empowerment narrative to mostly positive, if occasionally middling, muddled, results. Liberally interweaving classic references, including Disney’s...
[Read the whole post on screenanarchy.com...]...
[Read the whole post on screenanarchy.com...]...
- 11/22/2023
- Screen Anarchy
This article appears in the new issue of Den Of Geek magazine. Get your copy here.
When it came to creating the animated film that would be released on the 100th anniversary of Disney Studios, Disney Animation’s Chief Creative Officer and co-creator of Frozen, Jennifer Lee, was deeply aware of the massive task that she and everyone at the storied animation studio would be taking on. “I started talking with my fellow Frozen director, Chris Buck, about how Disney would be turning 100 this year,” Lee shared at a press event celebrating their newest animated feature. “We acknowledged what a privilege and responsibility it is at this significant time. And we thought what a wonderful way to celebrate a century of storytelling, to tell a joyful, original story with original characters and songs inspired by our legacy of films.” That film is Wish, the 62nd animated Disney film that follows a young woman,...
When it came to creating the animated film that would be released on the 100th anniversary of Disney Studios, Disney Animation’s Chief Creative Officer and co-creator of Frozen, Jennifer Lee, was deeply aware of the massive task that she and everyone at the storied animation studio would be taking on. “I started talking with my fellow Frozen director, Chris Buck, about how Disney would be turning 100 this year,” Lee shared at a press event celebrating their newest animated feature. “We acknowledged what a privilege and responsibility it is at this significant time. And we thought what a wonderful way to celebrate a century of storytelling, to tell a joyful, original story with original characters and songs inspired by our legacy of films.” That film is Wish, the 62nd animated Disney film that follows a young woman,...
- 11/20/2023
- by John Saavedra
- Den of Geek
Disneyland has released a first look of its new reimagined Adventure Treehouse, inspired by Walt Disney’s Swiss Family Robinson.
The new attraction opens Nov. 10 in Disneyland Park and pays tribute to the original treehouse Walt Disney and his team built in 1962. Previously, the treehouse was themed after the 1999 animated film Tarzan.
In the new iteration, there’s a water wheel “powered by the magical waters,” a homey dining area for the Robinson family of 5, a wood-carving station, an astronomy loft, a nature room and the father’s art studio.
“The video explores the mother’s music den, sons’ nature room and daughter’s astronomer’s loft among the tree’s massive boughs,” said Disney officials in a statement. “It also offers a glimpse at the ground-level kitchen and dining room, plus the father’s art studio.”
There are no height requirements for the attraction.
Disney’s original Swiss Family Robinson...
The new attraction opens Nov. 10 in Disneyland Park and pays tribute to the original treehouse Walt Disney and his team built in 1962. Previously, the treehouse was themed after the 1999 animated film Tarzan.
In the new iteration, there’s a water wheel “powered by the magical waters,” a homey dining area for the Robinson family of 5, a wood-carving station, an astronomy loft, a nature room and the father’s art studio.
“The video explores the mother’s music den, sons’ nature room and daughter’s astronomer’s loft among the tree’s massive boughs,” said Disney officials in a statement. “It also offers a glimpse at the ground-level kitchen and dining room, plus the father’s art studio.”
There are no height requirements for the attraction.
Disney’s original Swiss Family Robinson...
- 11/5/2023
- by The Deadline Team
- Deadline Film + TV
Streaming has forever changed the way we consume and experience movies and TV. One of the small joys (and anxieties) that has all but disappeared in the streaming era is channel surfing — the joy of discovering something new by chance, and also the pressure of not knowing when you might watch a certain title again.
Except, the essence of channel surfing is still there, in the way streaming platforms remove and add titles every month. The pressure of only having a certain amount of time before a title disappears forever is still there, only you have a month's notice. With October almost over, it is time for another round of movies and shows Netflix is taking off the platform and replacing with new ones. Like with everything streaming-related, there are a lot of soon-to-be-gone shows and movies. So I'm here to help break down the titles you do not want...
Except, the essence of channel surfing is still there, in the way streaming platforms remove and add titles every month. The pressure of only having a certain amount of time before a title disappears forever is still there, only you have a month's notice. With October almost over, it is time for another round of movies and shows Netflix is taking off the platform and replacing with new ones. Like with everything streaming-related, there are a lot of soon-to-be-gone shows and movies. So I'm here to help break down the titles you do not want...
- 10/26/2023
- by Rafael Motamayor
- Slash Film
Disney’s rich history of animated classics is undoubtedly a treasure trove, one they’ve revisited time and again, tapping into nostalgia with their live-action remakes. However, recent rumors suggest a shift in their approach, as they might be diving into a more contemporary set of films.
A New Era of Remakes
The word on the street is that Disney is in the early developmental stages of live-action remakes for some of its modern classics such as “Frozen,” “Princess and the Frog,” “Tangled,” and “Tarzan.” These reports come primarily from The DisInsider, hinting at these newer titles joining Disney’s ever-growing list of live-action adaptations.
Related: The Lion King Movies In Order (How to Watch the Film Series)
Historically, the studio has leaned on older films, ones ripe with nostalgia. Classics like “Cinderella,” “The Lion King,” and “Aladdin” are perfect examples. These films, having marinated in cultural memory for decades,...
A New Era of Remakes
The word on the street is that Disney is in the early developmental stages of live-action remakes for some of its modern classics such as “Frozen,” “Princess and the Frog,” “Tangled,” and “Tarzan.” These reports come primarily from The DisInsider, hinting at these newer titles joining Disney’s ever-growing list of live-action adaptations.
Related: The Lion King Movies In Order (How to Watch the Film Series)
Historically, the studio has leaned on older films, ones ripe with nostalgia. Classics like “Cinderella,” “The Lion King,” and “Aladdin” are perfect examples. These films, having marinated in cultural memory for decades,...
- 10/19/2023
- by Buddy TV
- buddytv.com
Long-time Disney music arranger and orchestrator Dave Metzger is finally getting his “Wish.” After two decades and orchestrating “Tarzan,” “Wreck-It Ralph” and “Frozen,” Metzger is composing his first full animated feature, “Wish.”
Speaking to Variety during scoring session breaks in early September, Metzger says getting the call was amazing. “I’ve always done a lot of composing, but it’s always been as the unknown composer or the additional music person,” he says. But after 25 years of being that additional music person, Metzger wondered if the window on getting his composing credit would ever become a reality. “I had reached the point where I wasn’t sure,” he admits.
A phone call from Matthew Walker, VP of Music at Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios changed that. Metzger says, “He said he was considering me to be the composer for ‘Wish.’”
The film, set to be released on Nov. 22, continues...
Speaking to Variety during scoring session breaks in early September, Metzger says getting the call was amazing. “I’ve always done a lot of composing, but it’s always been as the unknown composer or the additional music person,” he says. But after 25 years of being that additional music person, Metzger wondered if the window on getting his composing credit would ever become a reality. “I had reached the point where I wasn’t sure,” he admits.
A phone call from Matthew Walker, VP of Music at Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios changed that. Metzger says, “He said he was considering me to be the composer for ‘Wish.’”
The film, set to be released on Nov. 22, continues...
- 10/18/2023
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
The Whole Spiel — the new company co-founded by former NBC Entertainment chairman Paul Telegdy — and Red Bull’s Terra Mater Studios have teamed up to develop a slate of drama series. The projects include a reimagined “Tarzan” series, wildlife crime investigation “Rogue,” geopolitical drama “A New King” and true history drama “The Executioner.”
In collaboration with Shingle Media and Friendly Fire, the “Tarzan” series will reimagine Edgar Rice Burroughs’ iconic hero for a new generation. The plot will follow Tarzan and Jane defending their home against fortune hunters who come to Africa.
“Rogue,” created and written by National Geographic Explorer Derek Joubert, is a thriller series set in the underground world of illegal wildlife trading. It will follow a multi-billion-dollar global conspiracy in the heart of Africa that shatters lives while fueling the narcotics trade, arms dealing and terrorism. The series will be co-produced with Joubert’s Wildlife Films.
Set inside a wealthy aristocratic family,...
In collaboration with Shingle Media and Friendly Fire, the “Tarzan” series will reimagine Edgar Rice Burroughs’ iconic hero for a new generation. The plot will follow Tarzan and Jane defending their home against fortune hunters who come to Africa.
“Rogue,” created and written by National Geographic Explorer Derek Joubert, is a thriller series set in the underground world of illegal wildlife trading. It will follow a multi-billion-dollar global conspiracy in the heart of Africa that shatters lives while fueling the narcotics trade, arms dealing and terrorism. The series will be co-produced with Joubert’s Wildlife Films.
Set inside a wealthy aristocratic family,...
- 10/13/2023
- by Caroline Brew
- Variety Film + TV
Thomas Schumacher, longtime president and producer of Disney Theatrical Group, is stepping down from his role overseeing business operations and will instead focus on the creative elements as chief creative officer.
Schumacher, who helped shape Disney Theatrical into a powerhouse on Broadway and develop productions such as The Lion King, has been at Disney Theatrical since its inception and has been president since 1999. His two deputies, Andrew Flatt and Anne Quart, will take over his duties, acting as joint executive vice presidents.
With the new role, Schumacher will retain the same title as Jennifer Lee at Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pete Docter at Pixar.
The Disney executive started as executive vice president of Disney Theatrical, working alongside Peter Schneider, as Disney made its first big foray into Broadway with Beauty and the Beast in 1994. Schumacher, who was also working as president of Walt Disney Feature Animation at the time,...
Schumacher, who helped shape Disney Theatrical into a powerhouse on Broadway and develop productions such as The Lion King, has been at Disney Theatrical since its inception and has been president since 1999. His two deputies, Andrew Flatt and Anne Quart, will take over his duties, acting as joint executive vice presidents.
With the new role, Schumacher will retain the same title as Jennifer Lee at Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pete Docter at Pixar.
The Disney executive started as executive vice president of Disney Theatrical, working alongside Peter Schneider, as Disney made its first big foray into Broadway with Beauty and the Beast in 1994. Schumacher, who was also working as president of Walt Disney Feature Animation at the time,...
- 9/28/2023
- by Caitlin Huston
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
“Wish” is nearly here. And there’s a brand-new trailer for the 62nd Disney animated feature, which you can watch above.
Based on an original idea, with a script co-written by “Frozen” filmmaker Jennifer Lee and Allison Moore, follows Asha (Ariana DeBose) and direction from Disney legend Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn, a 17-year-old girl who lives in a land where wishes come true. That’s where she discovers that Lord Magnifico (Chris Pine), the leader of her kingdom who has “the power of wishes” (as she says in the trailer), might have more malevolent intent. She sets off on an adventure with an anthropomorphic wishing star and a talking goat.
Disney also revealed the full cast for the movie, which includes Jennifer Kumiyama as Asha’s dearest friend, Dahlia, who’s an accomplished baker and unofficial leader of their group; Evan Peters as the strong guy with a big heart and bigger yawn,...
Based on an original idea, with a script co-written by “Frozen” filmmaker Jennifer Lee and Allison Moore, follows Asha (Ariana DeBose) and direction from Disney legend Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn, a 17-year-old girl who lives in a land where wishes come true. That’s where she discovers that Lord Magnifico (Chris Pine), the leader of her kingdom who has “the power of wishes” (as she says in the trailer), might have more malevolent intent. She sets off on an adventure with an anthropomorphic wishing star and a talking goat.
Disney also revealed the full cast for the movie, which includes Jennifer Kumiyama as Asha’s dearest friend, Dahlia, who’s an accomplished baker and unofficial leader of their group; Evan Peters as the strong guy with a big heart and bigger yawn,...
- 9/27/2023
- by Drew Taylor
- The Wrap
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Variety may receive an affiliate commission.
Disney fans and physical media collectors, rejoice! This November will see the release of a gargantuan 100-film Blu-ray collection called the Disney Legacy Animated Film Collection. The catch? It’ll cost you $1,499.96.
The boxed set officially releases on Nov. 14, but preorders are currently available exclusively at Walmart’s website.
Disney Legacy Animated Film Collection $1,499.96 Buy Now
The collection is packaged as a three-volume set, featuring animated films from Disney, Walt Disney Animation and Pixar. But unlike other behemoth boxed sets, this one isn’t filled with lame direct-to video snoozers but beloved titles that includes classics and recent favorites. For example, the long-running list includes all the “Toy Story” movies, both of “The Incredibles,” “The Black Cauldron,” “Frankenweenie” and “Robin Hood.” It even includes films as recent as this...
Disney fans and physical media collectors, rejoice! This November will see the release of a gargantuan 100-film Blu-ray collection called the Disney Legacy Animated Film Collection. The catch? It’ll cost you $1,499.96.
The boxed set officially releases on Nov. 14, but preorders are currently available exclusively at Walmart’s website.
Disney Legacy Animated Film Collection $1,499.96 Buy Now
The collection is packaged as a three-volume set, featuring animated films from Disney, Walt Disney Animation and Pixar. But unlike other behemoth boxed sets, this one isn’t filled with lame direct-to video snoozers but beloved titles that includes classics and recent favorites. For example, the long-running list includes all the “Toy Story” movies, both of “The Incredibles,” “The Black Cauldron,” “Frankenweenie” and “Robin Hood.” It even includes films as recent as this...
- 9/21/2023
- by Anna Tingley
- Variety Film + TV
The current opioid epidemic is a scourge on the U.S. and the world, one where virtually no one has faced consequences, and a great example of American capitalist greed. It is a subject that has intrigued audiences around the world in recent years, with plenty of movies and documentaries trying to tackle the crisis, with various results. Now, Netflix wants a prestige award season film to compliment their already popular TV show "Painkiller," and the streamer tapped David Yates to make his first non "Harry Potter" and non "Tarzan" related movie in 18 years with "Pain Hustlers."
Yates' aim is to make a movie that combines the thrilling rise and fall story of "The Wolf of Wall Street" with the biting commentary and informative humor of "The Big Short," with a star-studded cast telling a fictional version of the story of the company Insys, one of the key players in...
Yates' aim is to make a movie that combines the thrilling rise and fall story of "The Wolf of Wall Street" with the biting commentary and informative humor of "The Big Short," with a star-studded cast telling a fictional version of the story of the company Insys, one of the key players in...
- 9/12/2023
- by Rafael Motamayor
- Slash Film
If you’re a Disney fan who wants each and every animated movie they’ve ever made in one place, then you’re in luck. The Walt Disney Company announced the Disney Legacy Animated Film Collection, which features 100 animated movies from Disney, Walt Disney Animation Studios, and Pixar on Blu-ray. Everything from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs to Elemental is included, encompassing nearly one hundred years of storytelling.
Related Disney and Pixar’s Elemental comes to Disney+ on September 13th
The Disney Legacy Animated Film Collection is a self-standing, three-volume set that will be available for pre-order on September 19th, but only on Walmart.com. There will be a limited amount of sets available, so each will include a numbered certificate of authenticity. The set will also feature digital codes for each title, along with a collectible lithograph from Disney Animation’s all-new musical comedy Wish, and a collectible...
Related Disney and Pixar’s Elemental comes to Disney+ on September 13th
The Disney Legacy Animated Film Collection is a self-standing, three-volume set that will be available for pre-order on September 19th, but only on Walmart.com. There will be a limited amount of sets available, so each will include a numbered certificate of authenticity. The set will also feature digital codes for each title, along with a collectible lithograph from Disney Animation’s all-new musical comedy Wish, and a collectible...
- 9/11/2023
- by Kevin Fraser
- JoBlo.com
The Walt Disney Company is celebrating its 100th anniversary with a hefty new Blu-ray box set containing 100 of its best animated films.
Officially titled the Disney Legacy Animated Film Collection, the box set comes with three volumes that open up to feature the original theatrical artwork for each film. Additionally, the package offers digital codes to all 100 movies, a certificate of authenticity, a lithograph from the upcoming feature Wish, and a collectible set of crystal Mickey Mouse ears engraved with “Disney 100.”
Drawing films from Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar, and the now-closed DisneyToon Studios, the collection offers a pretty comprehensive timeline of the company, founded in 1923. The box set features early classics like Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Cinderella, Alice in Wonderland, and Peter Pan, 1990s renaissance films like Aladdin, The Lion King, and Toy Story, and more modern offerings — many of which got the direct-to-Disney+ treatment thanks to Covid — including Soul,...
Officially titled the Disney Legacy Animated Film Collection, the box set comes with three volumes that open up to feature the original theatrical artwork for each film. Additionally, the package offers digital codes to all 100 movies, a certificate of authenticity, a lithograph from the upcoming feature Wish, and a collectible set of crystal Mickey Mouse ears engraved with “Disney 100.”
Drawing films from Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar, and the now-closed DisneyToon Studios, the collection offers a pretty comprehensive timeline of the company, founded in 1923. The box set features early classics like Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Cinderella, Alice in Wonderland, and Peter Pan, 1990s renaissance films like Aladdin, The Lion King, and Toy Story, and more modern offerings — many of which got the direct-to-Disney+ treatment thanks to Covid — including Soul,...
- 9/11/2023
- by Carys Anderson
- Consequence - Film News
Since the Writers Guild of American and Screen Actors Guild are both still on strike, this year's Destination D23 convention down in Orlando, Florida didn't really have much of anything to showcase. Sure, the studio showed some footage from Disney's upcoming animated movie "Wish," and they announced that "Haunted Mansion" would be hitting Disney+ in October. But there was one other announcement that might be intriguing for anyone who is both a Disney fan and a physical media collector.
This fall, the House of Mouse will be releasing the Disney Legacy Animated Film Collection, which collects 100 animated films from both Disney and Pixar, reaching as far back as "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" and up through this summer's "Elemental" from Pixar. All of the movies come in a big three-volume set that unfolds in collectible storybooks. The Disney100 Blu-ray box set also includes the original theatrical poster art for every movie within the storybook,...
This fall, the House of Mouse will be releasing the Disney Legacy Animated Film Collection, which collects 100 animated films from both Disney and Pixar, reaching as far back as "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" and up through this summer's "Elemental" from Pixar. All of the movies come in a big three-volume set that unfolds in collectible storybooks. The Disney100 Blu-ray box set also includes the original theatrical poster art for every movie within the storybook,...
- 9/11/2023
- by Ethan Anderton
- Slash Film
Disney just announced the release of the Disney Legacy Animated Film Collection, featuring 100 animated films from Disney, Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar. It’s packaged together as a three-volume set that unfolds into your own storybook.
The set is festooned with original poster designs and comes with digital codes for every movie, alongside a lithograph from Disney’s upcoming feature “Wish,” a certificate of authenticity and crystal Mickey Mouse ears engraved with the “Disney 100” logo. The limited-edition collection will be available on Nov. 14, with pre-orders beginning on Walmart.com on Sept. 18. It has a retail price of $1,500.
What’s fascinating about the set is that it includes a wide array of classic Walt Disney Animation Studios features, along with beloved Pixar favorites and a smattering of films (many of them direct-to-video sequels to earlier masterworks) created by the since-shuttered DisneyToon Studios. That includes “Tinker Bell,” “Return to Neverland,” “The...
The set is festooned with original poster designs and comes with digital codes for every movie, alongside a lithograph from Disney’s upcoming feature “Wish,” a certificate of authenticity and crystal Mickey Mouse ears engraved with the “Disney 100” logo. The limited-edition collection will be available on Nov. 14, with pre-orders beginning on Walmart.com on Sept. 18. It has a retail price of $1,500.
What’s fascinating about the set is that it includes a wide array of classic Walt Disney Animation Studios features, along with beloved Pixar favorites and a smattering of films (many of them direct-to-video sequels to earlier masterworks) created by the since-shuttered DisneyToon Studios. That includes “Tinker Bell,” “Return to Neverland,” “The...
- 9/10/2023
- by Drew Taylor
- The Wrap
While Tarzan is no doubt the hero of his own world, there’s someone else in the mix who stands out as an unsung hero. If you guessed Jane in Tarzan, then you guessed correctly. The character plays a pivotal role in Tarzan’s wild and adventurous journey. Her independent spirit, coupled with her fierce determination, establishes Jane as more than just a helpless love interest. It’s safe to say that she was well beyond her time and defied most societal norms of her time. Additionally, she fearlessly embraced the unknown, venturing into the depths of the jungle alongside the titular character.
- 8/31/2023
- by Ima Whyte
- TVovermind.com
New Project
Update: The title of Vannuccini’s sequel to “Commedia” has been changed to “Things and Other Things.”
Riccardo Vannuccini has set a sequel to his feature “Commedia.” Titled “Tarzan,” the project will see him again team up with “This England” star Greta Bellamacina, with whom he starred in “Commedia.”
The duo will reprise their roles as Rocco and Irene, this time in a post-industrial landscape. Manolo Cinti is on board as Dp. “Tarzan,” which begins shooting in Italy this November, is co-produced by Artestudio in Rome and Sulk Youth in the U.K.
“Commedia” is set to be released on Prime Video in the U.K. and U.S. this month.
“Our heroes have managed to mysteriously escape from where they were – but where were they?” says Vannuccini. “They are busy doing nothing, making small acts, to leave imaginative traces of their passage, imagined signs of being in the world.
Update: The title of Vannuccini’s sequel to “Commedia” has been changed to “Things and Other Things.”
Riccardo Vannuccini has set a sequel to his feature “Commedia.” Titled “Tarzan,” the project will see him again team up with “This England” star Greta Bellamacina, with whom he starred in “Commedia.”
The duo will reprise their roles as Rocco and Irene, this time in a post-industrial landscape. Manolo Cinti is on board as Dp. “Tarzan,” which begins shooting in Italy this November, is co-produced by Artestudio in Rome and Sulk Youth in the U.K.
“Commedia” is set to be released on Prime Video in the U.K. and U.S. this month.
“Our heroes have managed to mysteriously escape from where they were – but where were they?” says Vannuccini. “They are busy doing nothing, making small acts, to leave imaginative traces of their passage, imagined signs of being in the world.
- 6/20/2023
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
The release of The Little Mermaid—the latest in a long line of live-action remakes of Disney’s animated classics—brought with it a hell of a lot of discourse. Much of the noise surrounding this film, which received mostly solid reviews, was blatantly bad-faith, obsessed with the apparent fantastical notion of a Black woman in a leading role.
At a time when forced culture wars so thoroughly dominate every entertainment-related topic, navigating the racism swarming around The Little Mermaid has been tough. And the distressing realities of this bigotry reared its ugly head after it was reported that the film was struggling in key foreign markets, apparently in part because of racist backlash. More damning still for the film’s box office, The Hollywood Reporter cited headlines from government-affiliated publications in China that claimed The Little Mermaid suffered from “forced inclusion of minorities in classic films.”
Not so long ago,...
At a time when forced culture wars so thoroughly dominate every entertainment-related topic, navigating the racism swarming around The Little Mermaid has been tough. And the distressing realities of this bigotry reared its ugly head after it was reported that the film was struggling in key foreign markets, apparently in part because of racist backlash. More damning still for the film’s box office, The Hollywood Reporter cited headlines from government-affiliated publications in China that claimed The Little Mermaid suffered from “forced inclusion of minorities in classic films.”
Not so long ago,...
- 6/14/2023
- by David Crow
- Den of Geek
Paul Geoffrey, an English actor known for his roles in “Excalibur” and “Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan, Lord of the Apes,” has died. He was 68.
Geoffrey died on June 3 in Santa Fe, N.M. from a battle with cancer, the Santa Fe New Mexican reported.
“A thespian to the core, Paul continued to act for the remainder of his life. He loved French wine and food, had a stunning grasp of history, was a life-long Arsenal fan, and excelled at being the sweetest guy in the world,” the Santa Fe New Mexican said of Geoffrey.
Nigel Terry (left) as King Arthur, Paul Geoffrey (right) as Perceval, in “Excalibur.”
Throughout his acting career, Geoffrey starred as Perceval in the 1981 film “Excalibur,” a medieval fantasy film that retells the legend of King Arthur and the knights of the round table. The film won best artistic contribution at Cannes in 1981 and received an Oscar nomination for best cinematography.
Geoffrey died on June 3 in Santa Fe, N.M. from a battle with cancer, the Santa Fe New Mexican reported.
“A thespian to the core, Paul continued to act for the remainder of his life. He loved French wine and food, had a stunning grasp of history, was a life-long Arsenal fan, and excelled at being the sweetest guy in the world,” the Santa Fe New Mexican said of Geoffrey.
Nigel Terry (left) as King Arthur, Paul Geoffrey (right) as Perceval, in “Excalibur.”
Throughout his acting career, Geoffrey starred as Perceval in the 1981 film “Excalibur,” a medieval fantasy film that retells the legend of King Arthur and the knights of the round table. The film won best artistic contribution at Cannes in 1981 and received an Oscar nomination for best cinematography.
- 6/10/2023
- by Sophia Scorziello
- Variety Film + TV
Family is the most important thing. Apart from the Emmys, of course. Duh. Two performers may be able to combine both of those pillars of life this year as Stellan Skarsgård and his son Alexander Skarsgård vie for “Andor” (Disney+) and “Succession” (HBO) respectively. However, it’ll be a battle between father and son as they will be competing in the same category this year: Best Drama Supporting Actor.
First up, we have the father. Stellan Skarsgård was one of the show’s standout performers — and there were many of those, including Diego Luna, Andy Serkis, and Fiona Shaw. “Andor,” a spin-off TV show of the spin-off movie “Rogue One,” follows Luna as the titular Cassian Andor as the series explores how he came to be such a key part of the rebel alliance. Skarsgård plays a crucial role in the show as Luthen Rael, who is already a high-ranking...
First up, we have the father. Stellan Skarsgård was one of the show’s standout performers — and there were many of those, including Diego Luna, Andy Serkis, and Fiona Shaw. “Andor,” a spin-off TV show of the spin-off movie “Rogue One,” follows Luna as the titular Cassian Andor as the series explores how he came to be such a key part of the rebel alliance. Skarsgård plays a crucial role in the show as Luthen Rael, who is already a high-ranking...
- 5/18/2023
- by Jacob Sarkisian
- Gold Derby
Like all truly great TV series, Succession is about a lot of things. It is about generational trauma, ambition, betrayal, self-destruction, family, and capitalism. It is also a show about male predation. While pretty much all of its characters are problematic in some way or another, the concept of specifically male toxicity is ever-present but seldom explored. From Roman Roy’s (Kieran Culkin) unsolicited “dick pic” last season, to the cruiseline rape and murder coverup that simmered in the background of the first three seasons, and Logan Roy’s (Brian Cox) affair with his much-younger secretary, Succession has indulged a relentlessly cynical view of sexuality, and of harmful male behaviour. In the character of Lukas Matsson, though, the series may have introduced a whole new type of toxic man.
Matsson, played by Alexander Skarsgård, was introduced last season as an erratic Swedish tech billionaire, interested in buying WayStar RoyCo. Episode five,...
Matsson, played by Alexander Skarsgård, was introduced last season as an erratic Swedish tech billionaire, interested in buying WayStar RoyCo. Episode five,...
- 4/24/2023
- by Louis Chilton
- The Independent - TV
The 95th Academy Awards are behind us now, and one of the most interesting categories was Best Original Song. Winning an Oscar for an original song is definitely a prestigious honor, but perhaps the second most coveted prize for original movie music is the Grammy. Being voted on by two different academies means there’s bound to be a lot of discrepancies between the awards, especially with different voting deadlines and eligibility rules. With that in mind, what Oscar winning songs have also managed to get at least one Grammy nomination?
SEE2023 CMT Music Awards nominations list: Lainey Wilson on top with 4 bids
Two 2020s Oscar winners were also Grammy winners, albeit in different categories. Billie Eilish’s “No Time To Die” (from the film of the same name) won the Grammy for Best Song Written for Visual Media, the direct equivalent of Oscar’s Best Original Song. Meanwhile, H.E.R....
SEE2023 CMT Music Awards nominations list: Lainey Wilson on top with 4 bids
Two 2020s Oscar winners were also Grammy winners, albeit in different categories. Billie Eilish’s “No Time To Die” (from the film of the same name) won the Grammy for Best Song Written for Visual Media, the direct equivalent of Oscar’s Best Original Song. Meanwhile, H.E.R....
- 3/14/2023
- by Jaime Rodriguez
- Gold Derby
Sylvester Stallone's 1985 film "Rocky IV" is quite handily the silliest in its series. Tapping into the ultra-jingoistic rhetoric of the Ronald Reagan era, "Rocky IV" saw its American title character squaring off against a Soviet super-athlete in a symbolic attempt to prove which of the world powers was ultimately stronger. /Film already wrote about the film's extended central training montage, claiming it to be one of the best of all time because it provides a parallel between the way Rocky (Stallone) trains, and the way the evil Russian Ivan Drago (Dolph Lundgren) trains. Rocky is out of his element in Russia, where his bout with Drago is to take place. Because of this, Rocky has to find clever, low-fi ways to build in strength, including hauling logs and pressing rickshaws full of locals. Drago, meanwhile, is locked into a high-tech, computer-run athletics facility where his muscles and strength are...
- 3/11/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Ricou Browning, who took to the water as the menacing Gill-Man in the Creature From the Black Lagoon and as the creative force behind the original Flipper movie and TV show, has died. He was 93.
Browning died Monday of natural causes at his home in Southwest Ranches, Florida, his daughter Kim Browning told The Hollywood Reporter. “He had a fabulous career in the film industry, providing wonderful entertainment for past and future generations,” she said.
The Florida native also served as a stuntman on Richard Fleischer’s 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea (1954), doubled for Jerry Lewis in Don’t Give Up the Ship (1959) and “played all the bad guys in [TV’s] Sea Hunt,” he said in a 2013 interview.
Plus, Browning directed the harpoon-filled fight in Thunderball (1965), another underwater scene in Never Say Never Again (1983) and the hilarious Jaws-inspired candy bar-in-the-pool sequence in Caddyshack (1980).
Browning, who said he could routinely hold his...
Browning died Monday of natural causes at his home in Southwest Ranches, Florida, his daughter Kim Browning told The Hollywood Reporter. “He had a fabulous career in the film industry, providing wonderful entertainment for past and future generations,” she said.
The Florida native also served as a stuntman on Richard Fleischer’s 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea (1954), doubled for Jerry Lewis in Don’t Give Up the Ship (1959) and “played all the bad guys in [TV’s] Sea Hunt,” he said in a 2013 interview.
Plus, Browning directed the harpoon-filled fight in Thunderball (1965), another underwater scene in Never Say Never Again (1983) and the hilarious Jaws-inspired candy bar-in-the-pool sequence in Caddyshack (1980).
Browning, who said he could routinely hold his...
- 2/28/2023
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Burny Mattinson, who worked as an animator, director, producer and story artist during a 70-year career as the longest-serving “castmember” in the history of The Walt Disney Co., has died. He was 87.
Mattinson died after a short illness on Monday at a Canoga Park assisted living facility in Los Angeles, the studio announced. He was due to receive his 70th anniversary service award — the studio’s first ever — on June 4.
Mattinson was working full time at Walt Disney Animation Studios as a story consultant and mentor at the time of his death.
“Burny’s artistry, generosity and love of Disney Animation and the generations of storytellers that have come through our doors, for seven decades, has made us better — better artists, better technologists and better collaborators,” Walt Disney Animation Studios chief creative officer Jennifer Lee said in a statement. “All of us who have had the honor to know him...
Mattinson died after a short illness on Monday at a Canoga Park assisted living facility in Los Angeles, the studio announced. He was due to receive his 70th anniversary service award — the studio’s first ever — on June 4.
Mattinson was working full time at Walt Disney Animation Studios as a story consultant and mentor at the time of his death.
“Burny’s artistry, generosity and love of Disney Animation and the generations of storytellers that have come through our doors, for seven decades, has made us better — better artists, better technologists and better collaborators,” Walt Disney Animation Studios chief creative officer Jennifer Lee said in a statement. “All of us who have had the honor to know him...
- 2/27/2023
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Burny Mattinson, a Disney animator, director, producer and story artist, died on Monday, Feb. 27, in Canoga Park, Calif., following a short illness. He was 87.
Mattinson’s death was confirmed by The Walt Disney Company, his longtime employer. Mattinson was the longest-serving Disney employee and was set to receive the first ever 70th-anniversary service award this June.
Born in San Francisco on May 13, 1935, Mattinson was first inspired to pursue a career in animation after seeing “Pinocchio” at age 6. He began drawing in hopes to recreate the Disney animation style. By the time he finished high school, Mattinson joined The Walt Disney Company and in just six months moved from the mailroom to an animation in-betweener on “Lady and the Tramp.”
Academy Award-winning Disney director Don Hall said, “For almost 30 years, I’ve had the privilege to work alongside Burny Mattinson, from ‘Winnie the Pooh’ to ‘Big Hero 6’ to, most recently,...
Mattinson’s death was confirmed by The Walt Disney Company, his longtime employer. Mattinson was the longest-serving Disney employee and was set to receive the first ever 70th-anniversary service award this June.
Born in San Francisco on May 13, 1935, Mattinson was first inspired to pursue a career in animation after seeing “Pinocchio” at age 6. He began drawing in hopes to recreate the Disney animation style. By the time he finished high school, Mattinson joined The Walt Disney Company and in just six months moved from the mailroom to an animation in-betweener on “Lady and the Tramp.”
Academy Award-winning Disney director Don Hall said, “For almost 30 years, I’ve had the privilege to work alongside Burny Mattinson, from ‘Winnie the Pooh’ to ‘Big Hero 6’ to, most recently,...
- 2/27/2023
- by Charna Flam
- Variety Film + TV
Animator, director, producer and story artist Burny Mattinson, who joined the Walt Disney Company at the end of its first great run of films, when Dumbo (1941) and Bambi (1942) were new and an in-his-prime Walt Disney was just 42 years old, died today. He was 87. He was the last full-time Walt Disney Studios employee who had worked at the company when Walt Disney still ran it.
Seeing the studio’s Pinocchio at the age of six convinced Mattinson he wanted to work in animation. “Ever since I saw that film, this was my dream—to work in this business,” he recalled years later. “So I worked every day, drawing.”
Related Story Hollywood & Media Deaths In 2023: Photo Gallery & Obituaries Related Story Ron DeSantis' New Book Describes Phone Call With Bob Chapek, Says Then-Disney CEO Talked Of Unprecedented Pressure To Weigh In On "Don't Say Gay" Bill Related Story Amazon, Disney Employees Petition...
Seeing the studio’s Pinocchio at the age of six convinced Mattinson he wanted to work in animation. “Ever since I saw that film, this was my dream—to work in this business,” he recalled years later. “So I worked every day, drawing.”
Related Story Hollywood & Media Deaths In 2023: Photo Gallery & Obituaries Related Story Ron DeSantis' New Book Describes Phone Call With Bob Chapek, Says Then-Disney CEO Talked Of Unprecedented Pressure To Weigh In On "Don't Say Gay" Bill Related Story Amazon, Disney Employees Petition...
- 2/27/2023
- by Tom Tapp
- Deadline Film + TV
“Puss in Boots: The Last Wish” landed in theaters this past December with minimal pre-release fanfare, but the “Shrek” franchise’s sixth entry, besides collecting an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature and nearly $400 million at the global box office, has turned out to be one of 2022’s most visually arresting and critically acclaimed animated efforts. The Oscar contender conspicuously blends analog and 3D-rendered animation, employing a hybrid style popularized by “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.”
The technique isn’t new, as films have been combining formats to one degree or another since at least 1991. However, the difference between “The Beauty and the Beast,” “The Iron Giant” and “Tarzan,” which used 2D backdrops to provide 3D objects a sense of depth, and more recent examples, like “Into the Spider-Verse,” “The Bad Guys” and “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish,” is the integration of “hand-drawn” and CGI elements in the foreground...
The technique isn’t new, as films have been combining formats to one degree or another since at least 1991. However, the difference between “The Beauty and the Beast,” “The Iron Giant” and “Tarzan,” which used 2D backdrops to provide 3D objects a sense of depth, and more recent examples, like “Into the Spider-Verse,” “The Bad Guys” and “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish,” is the integration of “hand-drawn” and CGI elements in the foreground...
- 2/22/2023
- by Ronald Meyer
- Gold Derby
Hudson brought an ad-man’s eye to the brilliant 1981 drama about athletics and bigotry, as well as directing the hilarious Cinzano commercials
As the 1980s dawned, British ad director Hugh Hudson took on his first feature film and made it a legendary hit: an inspirational story which supplied a sugar-rush of patriotism and a swoon of nostalgia which hit the spot both sides of the Atlantic. It somehow brought off the trick of being about the underdog and the victim of bigotry and religious discrimination – and yet also being a resounding endorsement of the status quo which could, on grounds of decency and meritocracy, always accommodate the outsider. This was the era of Margaret Thatcher and Ronald Reagan, and the ethos of success for the hardworking and the deserving.
The film of course was Chariots of Fire, the true story of the 1924 Olympic runners Harold Abrahams (played by Ben Cross...
As the 1980s dawned, British ad director Hugh Hudson took on his first feature film and made it a legendary hit: an inspirational story which supplied a sugar-rush of patriotism and a swoon of nostalgia which hit the spot both sides of the Atlantic. It somehow brought off the trick of being about the underdog and the victim of bigotry and religious discrimination – and yet also being a resounding endorsement of the status quo which could, on grounds of decency and meritocracy, always accommodate the outsider. This was the era of Margaret Thatcher and Ronald Reagan, and the ethos of success for the hardworking and the deserving.
The film of course was Chariots of Fire, the true story of the 1924 Olympic runners Harold Abrahams (played by Ben Cross...
- 2/11/2023
- by Peter Bradshaw
- The Guardian - Film News
Hugh Hudson, director of the triumphant sports classic Chariots of Fire, is dead at the age of 86. In a statement to The Guardian, his family said he “died at Charing Cross hospital on 10th February after a short illness.”
A longtime director of commercials, Hudson made the leap to films with the 1981 feature-length documentary Fangio: Una vita a 300 all’ora, covering the Formula One champion Juan Manuel Fangio. That same year he released Chariots of Fire, a historical drama about two athletes, one Christian and one Jewish, who made an unlikely connection at the 1924 Olympics. The film was nominated for seven Academy Awards and won four, including for Best Picture, while the stirring score by Vangelis remains one of the defining soundtracks of sports cinema.
Nigel Havers, who was nominated for Best Supporting Actor for playing Lord Andrew Lindsay, said, “I am beyond devastated that my great friend Hugh Hudson,...
A longtime director of commercials, Hudson made the leap to films with the 1981 feature-length documentary Fangio: Una vita a 300 all’ora, covering the Formula One champion Juan Manuel Fangio. That same year he released Chariots of Fire, a historical drama about two athletes, one Christian and one Jewish, who made an unlikely connection at the 1924 Olympics. The film was nominated for seven Academy Awards and won four, including for Best Picture, while the stirring score by Vangelis remains one of the defining soundtracks of sports cinema.
Nigel Havers, who was nominated for Best Supporting Actor for playing Lord Andrew Lindsay, said, “I am beyond devastated that my great friend Hugh Hudson,...
- 2/10/2023
- by Wren Graves
- Consequence - Film News
Hugh Hudson, who directed the classic Oscar winning film “Chariots of Fire,” died Friday in London. He was 86.
The Guardian said he had died after a short illness. His family released a statement saying, “Hugh Hudson, 86, beloved husband and father, died at Charing Cross hospital on 10 February after a short illness. He is survived by his wife Maryam, his son Thomas and his first wife Sue.”
As a director Hudson could be counted upon to deliver lush, beautifully designed, well-orchestrated scenes.
“Chariots of Fire” was the story of the rivalry between two British runners, one Jewish, the other a devout Christian, culminating in the 1924 Olympics. Hudson was Oscar nominated for best director in 1982, and the movie won four Academy Awards, including best picture and best score for the electronic compositions of Vangelis that somehow worked splendidly in the period film.
Hudson had brought his friend Vangelis onto the project, and...
The Guardian said he had died after a short illness. His family released a statement saying, “Hugh Hudson, 86, beloved husband and father, died at Charing Cross hospital on 10 February after a short illness. He is survived by his wife Maryam, his son Thomas and his first wife Sue.”
As a director Hudson could be counted upon to deliver lush, beautifully designed, well-orchestrated scenes.
“Chariots of Fire” was the story of the rivalry between two British runners, one Jewish, the other a devout Christian, culminating in the 1924 Olympics. Hudson was Oscar nominated for best director in 1982, and the movie won four Academy Awards, including best picture and best score for the electronic compositions of Vangelis that somehow worked splendidly in the period film.
Hudson had brought his friend Vangelis onto the project, and...
- 2/10/2023
- by Carmel Dagan
- Variety Film + TV
Writer/Director Joe Cornish discusses a few of his favorite movies with Josh Olson and Joe Dante.
Show Notes: Movies Referenced In This Episode
Attack The Block (2011)
Rocks (2019)
Poltergeist (1982)
Gremlins (1984)
Avanti! (1972)
Picnic At Hanging Rock (1975)
The Last Wave (1977)
Witness (1985)
Dead Poets Society (1989)
Fearless (1993)
Master And Commander: The Far Side Of The World (2003)
Gallipoli (1981)
The Year Of Living Dangerously (1982)
The Cars That Ate Paris (1974)
The Adventures Of Buckaroo Banzai (1984)
Remo Williams: The Adventure Begins (1985)
The Man Who Would Be King (1975)
Kingsman: The Secret Service (2014)
The Rescuers (1977)
Bedknobs And Broomsticks (1971)
The Rescuers Down Under (1990)
The Spy Who Loved Me (1977)
Moonraker (1979)
The Adventures Of Tintin (2011)
Bambi (1942)
Dumbo (1941)
Close Encounters Of The Third Kind (1977)
Forbidden Planet (1956)
This Island Earth (1955)
Earth Vs. The Flying Saucers (1956)
The Thing From Another World (1951)
Matinee (1993)
The Lord Of The Rings (1978)
The Omen (1976)
Damien: Omen II (1978)
Omen III: The Final Conflict (1981)
Battleship Potemkin (1925)
The Exorcist (1973)
The Exterminator (1980)
Friday The 13th...
Show Notes: Movies Referenced In This Episode
Attack The Block (2011)
Rocks (2019)
Poltergeist (1982)
Gremlins (1984)
Avanti! (1972)
Picnic At Hanging Rock (1975)
The Last Wave (1977)
Witness (1985)
Dead Poets Society (1989)
Fearless (1993)
Master And Commander: The Far Side Of The World (2003)
Gallipoli (1981)
The Year Of Living Dangerously (1982)
The Cars That Ate Paris (1974)
The Adventures Of Buckaroo Banzai (1984)
Remo Williams: The Adventure Begins (1985)
The Man Who Would Be King (1975)
Kingsman: The Secret Service (2014)
The Rescuers (1977)
Bedknobs And Broomsticks (1971)
The Rescuers Down Under (1990)
The Spy Who Loved Me (1977)
Moonraker (1979)
The Adventures Of Tintin (2011)
Bambi (1942)
Dumbo (1941)
Close Encounters Of The Third Kind (1977)
Forbidden Planet (1956)
This Island Earth (1955)
Earth Vs. The Flying Saucers (1956)
The Thing From Another World (1951)
Matinee (1993)
The Lord Of The Rings (1978)
The Omen (1976)
Damien: Omen II (1978)
Omen III: The Final Conflict (1981)
Battleship Potemkin (1925)
The Exorcist (1973)
The Exterminator (1980)
Friday The 13th...
- 1/24/2023
- by Kris Millsap
- Trailers from Hell
The early 2000s were a weird time for everyone -- Disney included. Like an exhausted millennial desperately rephrasing their resume, Walt Disney Animation Studios was eager to latch onto anything that would permit the company a new lease on life. For context, the Disney Renaissance, which began with "The Little Mermaid" in 1989 and shuttered its majestic doors with "Tarzan" in 1999, was over and the studio wanted to prove it could create stories that were more than musically charged fantasies. What's more, Disney also wanted to explore more computer-generated imagery or, as it's better known, CGI. Throw in an increasingly voracious audience with a highly specific hunger for science-fiction and, well, two and two makes four.
Look, this is a gross exaggeration of how Disney functioned in the early 2000s. It seems like the company was working with a strict "throw everything at the wall and see what sticks" mentality. Nothing...
Look, this is a gross exaggeration of how Disney functioned in the early 2000s. It seems like the company was working with a strict "throw everything at the wall and see what sticks" mentality. Nothing...
- 1/21/2023
- by Cameron Roy Hall
- Slash Film
HBO’s highly-anticipated television adaptation of Naughty Dog’s critically acclaimed video game “The Last of Us” is set to premiere on Sunday evening, and while the live-action version finds different performers filling the roles of the game’s characters, Merle Dandridge was tasked with reprising her role as Marlene in live-action form. An experience she admits was emotional and, at first, a little uncomfortable.
The series takes place 20 years after modern civilization has been destroyed. Joel (Pedro Pascal), a hardened survivor, is hired to smuggle a 14-year-old girl named Ellie (Bella Ramsey) out of an oppressive quarantine zone. What starts as a small job soon becomes a brutal, heartbreaking journey, as they both must traverse the U.S. and depend on each other for survival.
Dandridge did voiceover and motion capture work on both “Last of Us” video games, originating the role of Marlene, the leader of the Fireflies,...
The series takes place 20 years after modern civilization has been destroyed. Joel (Pedro Pascal), a hardened survivor, is hired to smuggle a 14-year-old girl named Ellie (Bella Ramsey) out of an oppressive quarantine zone. What starts as a small job soon becomes a brutal, heartbreaking journey, as they both must traverse the U.S. and depend on each other for survival.
Dandridge did voiceover and motion capture work on both “Last of Us” video games, originating the role of Marlene, the leader of the Fireflies,...
- 1/15/2023
- by Lucas Manfredi
- The Wrap
Maybe it is the influx of new movies and shows post-covid lockdowns, or maybe it’s just a coincidence, but it seems like soundtracks are really making a resurgence recently. TV shows and movies have been putting hit songs on the charts, or just generally being acclaimed for their great music supervision. This year’s Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media nominees at the Grammys — which range from shows like “Stranger Things” to movies like “Elvis” — all have that “it” factor that would, in a less competitive year, result in a probable win. But with all five strong nominees competing against each other, multiple outcomes could arise.
Perhaps the front-runner to many is “Encanto.” The soundtrack for the Oscar-winning Disney film was massive, especially at the beginning of the season, notching multiple hit songs on the Billboard Hot 100. The soundtrack also produced the smash “We Don’t Talk About Bruno,...
Perhaps the front-runner to many is “Encanto.” The soundtrack for the Oscar-winning Disney film was massive, especially at the beginning of the season, notching multiple hit songs on the Billboard Hot 100. The soundtrack also produced the smash “We Don’t Talk About Bruno,...
- 12/21/2022
- by Jaime Rodriguez
- Gold Derby
Fifth Season (formerly Endeavor Content) has promoted Noah Greenshner in its TV division from senior vice president to executive vice presdient of development and production. In addition, Jill Arthur has also been hired in the same role. Joe Hipps, Fifth Season’s president of TV development and production, announced the news on Monday.
Both executives will work closely with Hipps and the TV team on managing the company’s growing series slate, and will manage the portfolio of writer and producer deals, which includes partnerships with Amy Adams/Bond Group Entertainment, Bill Dubuque, Oscar Isaac and Elvira Lind/Mad Gene Media, Kristen Campo/Campout Prods., Layne Eskridge/Pov Entertainment, Alan Poul/Boku, Liza Chasin/3dot Productions, Brad Weston/MakeReady, and Bruna Papandrea/Made Up Stories.
“Noah has been an invaluable member of the Fifth Season family since the TV Studio began in 2018 (as Endeavor Content) and his leadership in this...
Both executives will work closely with Hipps and the TV team on managing the company’s growing series slate, and will manage the portfolio of writer and producer deals, which includes partnerships with Amy Adams/Bond Group Entertainment, Bill Dubuque, Oscar Isaac and Elvira Lind/Mad Gene Media, Kristen Campo/Campout Prods., Layne Eskridge/Pov Entertainment, Alan Poul/Boku, Liza Chasin/3dot Productions, Brad Weston/MakeReady, and Bruna Papandrea/Made Up Stories.
“Noah has been an invaluable member of the Fifth Season family since the TV Studio began in 2018 (as Endeavor Content) and his leadership in this...
- 12/12/2022
- by BreAnna Bell
- Variety Film + TV
“Airheads” co-stars Brendan Fraser and Adam Sandler reunited as part of Variety’s “Actors on Actors” series, but it was Fraser’s follow-up role in “George of the Jungle” that really piqued Sandler’s interest. Fraser got muscular to headline the in the 1997 comedy, based on the “Tarzan”-spoofing animated series of the same name.
“The wardrobe was there was no wardrobe,” Fraser said. “George wears a loincloth.”
Sandler said Fraser was so jacked and so good looking in “George of the Jungle” that he “was disappointed,” joking, “You weren’t supposed to do that to us. You did right by the character. But you did wrong by us, man. You made us feel bad about ourselves. Were you oiled up at all during ‘George’?”
“I was waxed. Starved of carbohydrates,” Fraser said. “I would drive home after work and stop to get something to eat. I needed some cash one day,...
“The wardrobe was there was no wardrobe,” Fraser said. “George wears a loincloth.”
Sandler said Fraser was so jacked and so good looking in “George of the Jungle” that he “was disappointed,” joking, “You weren’t supposed to do that to us. You did right by the character. But you did wrong by us, man. You made us feel bad about ourselves. Were you oiled up at all during ‘George’?”
“I was waxed. Starved of carbohydrates,” Fraser said. “I would drive home after work and stop to get something to eat. I needed some cash one day,...
- 12/6/2022
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
On October 27, 2022, Kevin Lima received quite a surprise.
"My social media all just blew up," he told me. "I was like, 'What the hell is this?'"
Lima is the director of 1995's "A Goofy Movie," and although his film has become widely beloved in the years since its initial release, he certainly didn't expect it to be the subject of a full episode of the final season of Donald Glover's FX series "Atlanta." The fourth season's eighth episode, entitled "The Goof Who Sat By The Door," is a hilarious (and highly fictionalized) accounting of the making of "A Goofy Movie."
The episode completely breaks from the format of what "Atlanta" had ever done before, adopting a documentary style to riff on concepts that appeared previously in movies like "Putney Swope" (in which a fictional Black man is unwittingly made the CEO of a major company) and novels like...
"My social media all just blew up," he told me. "I was like, 'What the hell is this?'"
Lima is the director of 1995's "A Goofy Movie," and although his film has become widely beloved in the years since its initial release, he certainly didn't expect it to be the subject of a full episode of the final season of Donald Glover's FX series "Atlanta." The fourth season's eighth episode, entitled "The Goof Who Sat By The Door," is a hilarious (and highly fictionalized) accounting of the making of "A Goofy Movie."
The episode completely breaks from the format of what "Atlanta" had ever done before, adopting a documentary style to riff on concepts that appeared previously in movies like "Putney Swope" (in which a fictional Black man is unwittingly made the CEO of a major company) and novels like...
- 11/29/2022
- by Ben Pearson
- Slash Film
Disney Animation has not had a good year. The studio has followed disappointing box office for last summer’s “Toy Story” spinoff “Lightyear” with the big-screen bomb “Strange World” that is projected by analysts to cost the studio 100 million-plus as one of Disney’s biggest failures ever.
The flop is so big that it is on par with another historic bomb that the studio released on Thanksgiving weekend two decades ago: “Treasure Planet,” the most prominent in a string of theatrical busts that helped lead to the ouster of then-ceo Michael Eisner and paved the way for the rise of Bob Iger, who is now returning to take charge of Disney after the brief, tumultuous reign of Bob Chapek. Unlike Eisner and “Treasure Planet,” “Strange World” doesn’t entirely fall on Chapek’s shoulders. (The new film had been in development under Disney Animation head Jennifer Lee prior to Chapek’s rise as CEO.
The flop is so big that it is on par with another historic bomb that the studio released on Thanksgiving weekend two decades ago: “Treasure Planet,” the most prominent in a string of theatrical busts that helped lead to the ouster of then-ceo Michael Eisner and paved the way for the rise of Bob Iger, who is now returning to take charge of Disney after the brief, tumultuous reign of Bob Chapek. Unlike Eisner and “Treasure Planet,” “Strange World” doesn’t entirely fall on Chapek’s shoulders. (The new film had been in development under Disney Animation head Jennifer Lee prior to Chapek’s rise as CEO.
- 11/28/2022
- by Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
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