Spoiler TV has got a scoop on "Iron Man 2." Is it true or not? Probably not...but it is still enjoyable to read.
SpoilerTV claims filming for "Iron Man 2" will begin in April next year and that the studio is looking for the following: A male lead, 30s, Eastern European, brilliant, gritty; a female lead, 20s, beautiful, speaks several languages fluently and is equally proficient in martial arts; and a 'bruiser', Russian, 20s or 30s, at least 6'2", able to perform own stunts, has the build of a MMA fighter.
According to The Geek Files on this news, "These sound to me - and other comic book fans - like they could be for the characters Crimson Dynamo, Black Widow and Titanium Man. All have come up against billionaire Tony Stark's armoured alter-ego Iron Man in the comic book stories.
In the Marvel comic books, 12 different men have taken the name Crimson Dynamo. The first was Soviet scientist Professor Anton Vanko who created an armoured suit that enabled flight and electrical blasts. He battled Iron Man but then defected and went to work for Stark.
The Soviets sent their top agent, the female super-spy Black Widow, and her partner Boris Turgenev to kill Vanko. Turgenev stole the armour and became the second Crimson Dynamo and Vanko died trying to save Iron Man.
Titanium Man was an alias used by Soviet agent Boris Bullski who used Vanko's technology to create his own armoured suit and battled Iron Man when he was sent to the USA to retrieve the third Crimson Dynamo, Alex Nevsky, who was a protégé of Vanko."
Will these characters be in "Iron Man 2?" We will have to wait and see.
More news to come!Catch ya' later!
Friday, November 28, 2008
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
The Other X-Men 3
Bryan Singer directed both "X-Men" and "X-Men 2," but then left to go direct "Superman Returns." So Brett Ratner was brought on to direct the third X-Men film, "X-Men: The Last Stand."
A book, titled 'Mutant Cinema: The X-Men Trilogy From Comics to Screen,' written by Thomas McClean, answers some of the questions raised by fans, who have been desperate to find out what Singer and his own writers Dan Harris and Michael Dougherty had been planning for their unmade version of the third film.
According to The Geek Files, "Dougherty had already revealed some time ago that they had wanted to cast Sigourney Weaver as Emma Frost, a comic book psychic who would be remagined as an empath able to control people's emotions. Some reports have suggested that Frost would have been an old flame of Xavier and would have emotionally manipulated a resurrected, unstable Jean Grey into the evil Dark Phoenix.
McLean's book adds new information:
Dougherty says the resolution of the Phoenix plot would definitely have been a major part of their version: 'The main element for me was Jean coming back and learning how much power she could wield - that she just became overcome by it.'
Dougherty says that many of the ideas he was considering, such as Magneto trying to use Phoenix as a weapon, ended up in the filmed version. He also says that the idea of Jean using Cyclops' power to kill herself was one they liked, though they would have made it clear that only Phoenix's body was dying. Her spirit would live on, evolving Jean past mutant and into a godlike cosmic state.
Dougherty likens it to the closing lines of Arthur C Clarke's novel 2001: A Space Odyssey in which the Star-Child that was astronaut David Bowman hovers over the Earth: 'Then he waited, marshalling his thoughts and brooding over his still untested powers. For though he was master of the world, he was not quite sure what to do next. But he would think of something.'
The author says in the chapter notes at the end of the book that this material came from a telephone interview with Dougherty in September 2006."
Another point of interest that entertained me was between the difference between Ratner and Singer.
"Ratner's playboy persona played a role as well. Most comic book fans identified with the intense, down-to-earth Singer who they had come to trust with the X-Men franchise. Ratner, on the other hand, is known for living a lavish lifestyle that includes driving expensive sports cars and dating supermodels and actresses. His most successful films, Rush Hour and its sequel, were jocular and jokey. Fans worried that Ratner would not approach the X-Men franchise as seriously or as subtly as Singer had. But liking Singer more than Ratner has little to do with the success of the films and 'X-Men: The Last Stand's' popularity speaks for itself."
Variety has more information on the book, including:
• The history of X-Men comic books;
• Previous adaptations, including early cartoon appearances, the successful 1990s animated series, and initial attempts to bring the mutants to the big screen;
• The development process for each film, including behind-the-scenes stories, interviews with the screenwriters, and details on omitted scenes and storylines;
• Detailed scene-by-scene examinations of each film and the comic book stories that infuse every aspect of the movies;
• Critical and fan receptions of each film, plus box office performances;
• What the future may hold for the franchise; and
• Tips on some essential X-Men reading.
Check it out and enjoy!
A book, titled 'Mutant Cinema: The X-Men Trilogy From Comics to Screen,' written by Thomas McClean, answers some of the questions raised by fans, who have been desperate to find out what Singer and his own writers Dan Harris and Michael Dougherty had been planning for their unmade version of the third film.
According to The Geek Files, "Dougherty had already revealed some time ago that they had wanted to cast Sigourney Weaver as Emma Frost, a comic book psychic who would be remagined as an empath able to control people's emotions. Some reports have suggested that Frost would have been an old flame of Xavier and would have emotionally manipulated a resurrected, unstable Jean Grey into the evil Dark Phoenix.
McLean's book adds new information:
Dougherty says the resolution of the Phoenix plot would definitely have been a major part of their version: 'The main element for me was Jean coming back and learning how much power she could wield - that she just became overcome by it.'
Dougherty says that many of the ideas he was considering, such as Magneto trying to use Phoenix as a weapon, ended up in the filmed version. He also says that the idea of Jean using Cyclops' power to kill herself was one they liked, though they would have made it clear that only Phoenix's body was dying. Her spirit would live on, evolving Jean past mutant and into a godlike cosmic state.
Dougherty likens it to the closing lines of Arthur C Clarke's novel 2001: A Space Odyssey in which the Star-Child that was astronaut David Bowman hovers over the Earth: 'Then he waited, marshalling his thoughts and brooding over his still untested powers. For though he was master of the world, he was not quite sure what to do next. But he would think of something.'
The author says in the chapter notes at the end of the book that this material came from a telephone interview with Dougherty in September 2006."
Another point of interest that entertained me was between the difference between Ratner and Singer.
"Ratner's playboy persona played a role as well. Most comic book fans identified with the intense, down-to-earth Singer who they had come to trust with the X-Men franchise. Ratner, on the other hand, is known for living a lavish lifestyle that includes driving expensive sports cars and dating supermodels and actresses. His most successful films, Rush Hour and its sequel, were jocular and jokey. Fans worried that Ratner would not approach the X-Men franchise as seriously or as subtly as Singer had. But liking Singer more than Ratner has little to do with the success of the films and 'X-Men: The Last Stand's' popularity speaks for itself."
Variety has more information on the book, including:
• The history of X-Men comic books;
• Previous adaptations, including early cartoon appearances, the successful 1990s animated series, and initial attempts to bring the mutants to the big screen;
• The development process for each film, including behind-the-scenes stories, interviews with the screenwriters, and details on omitted scenes and storylines;
• Detailed scene-by-scene examinations of each film and the comic book stories that infuse every aspect of the movies;
• Critical and fan receptions of each film, plus box office performances;
• What the future may hold for the franchise; and
• Tips on some essential X-Men reading.
Check it out and enjoy!
Wolverine News
Screen Rant got sent exclusive information from Empire on the anticipated "Wolverine" film.
Here are some snippets.
Hugh Jackman on ramping up the action in upcoming X-Men Prequel "X-Men Origins: Wolverine":
“We ended up doing quite a lot of it. I wanted the fight scenes to be a little more brutal- I want people to wince a bit more.”
Hugh Jackman on drawing inspiration from De Niro:
“I had this image in my head of De Niro in that remake of 'Cape Fear', You were terrified of that character from the moment he took his shirt off…; you knew he was this coiled spring that would rip your head off, no matter how nonchalant he acted. That’s who Wolverine is.”
"Wolverine" co-star Liev Schneiber [Sabretooth in the movie] on Jackman’s improved physique:
“Hugh’s a monster right now!.”
"Wolverine" director Gavin Hood dismisses rumors of a troubled production:
“If nobody were talking about us, we’d be in trouble… On every film, you experience the joy and the strain of collaborative work.”
This (and much more) will all be in Empire magazine, hitting stands in January.
In other news, Coming Soon confirmed that an official "Wolverine" trailer will be shown on Dec. 12, 2008, showing in front of "The Day the Earth Stood Still."
And in an interview, Hugh Jackman explained his thoughts on possibly bringing back "Wolverine" for a sequel solo film.
Here are some snippets.
Hugh Jackman on ramping up the action in upcoming X-Men Prequel "X-Men Origins: Wolverine":
“We ended up doing quite a lot of it. I wanted the fight scenes to be a little more brutal- I want people to wince a bit more.”
Hugh Jackman on drawing inspiration from De Niro:
“I had this image in my head of De Niro in that remake of 'Cape Fear', You were terrified of that character from the moment he took his shirt off…; you knew he was this coiled spring that would rip your head off, no matter how nonchalant he acted. That’s who Wolverine is.”
"Wolverine" co-star Liev Schneiber [Sabretooth in the movie] on Jackman’s improved physique:
“Hugh’s a monster right now!.”
"Wolverine" director Gavin Hood dismisses rumors of a troubled production:
“If nobody were talking about us, we’d be in trouble… On every film, you experience the joy and the strain of collaborative work.”
This (and much more) will all be in Empire magazine, hitting stands in January.
In other news, Coming Soon confirmed that an official "Wolverine" trailer will be shown on Dec. 12, 2008, showing in front of "The Day the Earth Stood Still."
And in an interview, Hugh Jackman explained his thoughts on possibly bringing back "Wolverine" for a sequel solo film.
Downey Jr. Talks Avengers
“If we don’t get it right it’s really, really going to suck,” Downey said in an interview with MTV News about the anticipated "Avengers film. “It has to be the crowning blow of Marvel’s best and brightest because it’s the hardest thing to get right. It’s tough to spin all the plates for one of these characters.”
According to MTV News, "In taking on the role of a key member of the 'Avengers' to such digital fanfare, Downey has in a sense become the face of the operation — at least until other Marvel films such as 'Captain America' and 'Thor' get made (and, likewise, until Marvel figures out how to handle the 'Hulk'). To a lesser actor, this seems like an insurmountable amount of pressure, but Downey remains level-headed, and like any good soldier, knows he’s got a job to do, knows he’s already got a solid team at his side, and looks forward to seeing how the other films will play into the 'Avengers.'"
“I think its important that I do what I’m supposed to do which is keep my side of the street clean,” said Downey. “The danger you run with colliding all these worlds is [director] Jon [Favreau] was very certain that ‘Iron Man’ should be set in a very realistic world. Nothing that happened in ‘Iron Man’ is really outside the realm of possibility. Once you start talking about Valhalla and supersized super soldiers and jolly green giants it warrants much further discussion.”
How will things work out between the different heroes solo adventures and their coming together for the "Avengers" work out? More news to come! Catch ya' later!
According to MTV News, "In taking on the role of a key member of the 'Avengers' to such digital fanfare, Downey has in a sense become the face of the operation — at least until other Marvel films such as 'Captain America' and 'Thor' get made (and, likewise, until Marvel figures out how to handle the 'Hulk'). To a lesser actor, this seems like an insurmountable amount of pressure, but Downey remains level-headed, and like any good soldier, knows he’s got a job to do, knows he’s already got a solid team at his side, and looks forward to seeing how the other films will play into the 'Avengers.'"
“I think its important that I do what I’m supposed to do which is keep my side of the street clean,” said Downey. “The danger you run with colliding all these worlds is [director] Jon [Favreau] was very certain that ‘Iron Man’ should be set in a very realistic world. Nothing that happened in ‘Iron Man’ is really outside the realm of possibility. Once you start talking about Valhalla and supersized super soldiers and jolly green giants it warrants much further discussion.”
How will things work out between the different heroes solo adventures and their coming together for the "Avengers" work out? More news to come! Catch ya' later!
Same Star Trek Trailer, Different Ending
Ain't It Cool News (AICN) got its hands on an internet special only trailer for "Star Trek."
The trailer is exactly the same as the last one, except the last three seconds has a cameo from a "Star Trek" legend who will be featured in the new movie.
Enjoy! Or go to AICN (link above) and watch it in HD!
The trailer is exactly the same as the last one, except the last three seconds has a cameo from a "Star Trek" legend who will be featured in the new movie.
Enjoy! Or go to AICN (link above) and watch it in HD!
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Twilight Stars Get a Raise
"Twilight" is a major successful film (and book) thanks to its fanbase and sequels have already been green lit.
According to Rope of Silicon, "Bill Zwecker at the Chicago Sun-Times reports its two leads, Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart, are set to take home $12 million each for 'New Moon' as Edward Cullen and Bella Swan."
Both actors only received $2 million for "Twilight," so a $10 million raise is pretty nice.
Also according to Rope of Silicon (based off the Sun-Times article), "Zwecker does point out how director Catherine Hardwicke is still unsigned and alludes to a quote Hardwicke gave the AP [Associated Press] saying, 'I want to be sure that [the second film is] going to be done right. I don’t want to rush into it. It’s not like ‘Friday, the 13th’ or ‘Halloween,’ you can’t just do it super fast and knock another one out.' Strangely enough that is exactly how they went into 'Twilight' as screenwriter Melissa Rosenberg only had five weeks to hammer out the script before the writer’s strike began. Rosenberg has been confirmed as returning to pen both New Moon and Eclipse, she is best known for her writing and producing duties on Showtime’s highly successful drama 'Dexter.'"
So will Catherine Hardwicke return as "New Moon" director? More news to come! Catch ya' later!
According to Rope of Silicon, "Bill Zwecker at the Chicago Sun-Times reports its two leads, Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart, are set to take home $12 million each for 'New Moon' as Edward Cullen and Bella Swan."
Both actors only received $2 million for "Twilight," so a $10 million raise is pretty nice.
Also according to Rope of Silicon (based off the Sun-Times article), "Zwecker does point out how director Catherine Hardwicke is still unsigned and alludes to a quote Hardwicke gave the AP [Associated Press] saying, 'I want to be sure that [the second film is] going to be done right. I don’t want to rush into it. It’s not like ‘Friday, the 13th’ or ‘Halloween,’ you can’t just do it super fast and knock another one out.' Strangely enough that is exactly how they went into 'Twilight' as screenwriter Melissa Rosenberg only had five weeks to hammer out the script before the writer’s strike began. Rosenberg has been confirmed as returning to pen both New Moon and Eclipse, she is best known for her writing and producing duties on Showtime’s highly successful drama 'Dexter.'"
So will Catherine Hardwicke return as "New Moon" director? More news to come! Catch ya' later!
The Voyage of the Dawn Treader
Did you see "The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe" and "Prince Caspian?"
Did you like them?
Are you hoping for the next installment of the "Chronicles of Narnia?"
I come bearing neither good news nor bad news (well, it is actually mostly bad).
Disney is still planning on making "The Voyage of the Dawn Treader," but UGO Movie Blog reports some sinister findings, basing the news off of Jim Hill Media.
“Director Michael Apted has been riding herd on Dawn Treader’s development since June of 2007. Actors have been cast (‘Son of Rambow’ star Will Poulter has been hired to play Pevensie cousin Eustace Scrubb) and studio space has been lined up for a four-to-five month-long shoot which is allegedly slated to begin in late January. Which is all well & good. Except that Disney hasn’t actually greenlit production of ‘Voyage of the Dawn Treader.’ Not yet, anyway. What’s the hold-up? Well...Part of the problem here is that ‘Prince Caspian’ didn’t do nearly as well as Disney & Walden had hoped it would this past Summer. This $200 million follow-up to the studio’s 2005 blockbuster, ‘The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe’ only earned $141.6 million during its initial domestic release. Which is less than half of what the first ‘Narnia’ movie earned during its stateside release back in December of 2005.”
The third "Narnia" film was to be made in Iceland has changed, possibly sending the crew to Mexico to film where James Cameron filmed "Titanic."
Other news includes the film's budget being lowered by around $40 million, the release date getting pushed to December of 2010.
According to the UGO Movie Blog post, "And as for the future of the series, as recently as August of 2007, the Narnia series was to debut one installment a year until all seven were completed by May of 2013. But in September of 2007, Disney changed its mind, explaining that 'In consideration of the challenging schedules for our young actors, Walt Disney Pictures and Walden Media have chosen to delay the start of production for ‘The Voyage of the Dawn Treader’ until Summer 2008.'"
At the 2008 New York Comic-con, producer Mark Johnson stated that, “Right now, we have no plans to go beyond ‘The Voyage of the Dawn Treader.’ If (that movie is) successful, I’d love to do ‘The Silver Chair’ after that...as long as you keep embracing these movies, we’ll make all seven.”
"Prince Caspian" hits stores on DVD and Blu-ray Dec. 2, 2008.
More news to come! Catch ya' later!
Did you like them?
Are you hoping for the next installment of the "Chronicles of Narnia?"
I come bearing neither good news nor bad news (well, it is actually mostly bad).
Disney is still planning on making "The Voyage of the Dawn Treader," but UGO Movie Blog reports some sinister findings, basing the news off of Jim Hill Media.
“Director Michael Apted has been riding herd on Dawn Treader’s development since June of 2007. Actors have been cast (‘Son of Rambow’ star Will Poulter has been hired to play Pevensie cousin Eustace Scrubb) and studio space has been lined up for a four-to-five month-long shoot which is allegedly slated to begin in late January. Which is all well & good. Except that Disney hasn’t actually greenlit production of ‘Voyage of the Dawn Treader.’ Not yet, anyway. What’s the hold-up? Well...Part of the problem here is that ‘Prince Caspian’ didn’t do nearly as well as Disney & Walden had hoped it would this past Summer. This $200 million follow-up to the studio’s 2005 blockbuster, ‘The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe’ only earned $141.6 million during its initial domestic release. Which is less than half of what the first ‘Narnia’ movie earned during its stateside release back in December of 2005.”
The third "Narnia" film was to be made in Iceland has changed, possibly sending the crew to Mexico to film where James Cameron filmed "Titanic."
Other news includes the film's budget being lowered by around $40 million, the release date getting pushed to December of 2010.
According to the UGO Movie Blog post, "And as for the future of the series, as recently as August of 2007, the Narnia series was to debut one installment a year until all seven were completed by May of 2013. But in September of 2007, Disney changed its mind, explaining that 'In consideration of the challenging schedules for our young actors, Walt Disney Pictures and Walden Media have chosen to delay the start of production for ‘The Voyage of the Dawn Treader’ until Summer 2008.'"
At the 2008 New York Comic-con, producer Mark Johnson stated that, “Right now, we have no plans to go beyond ‘The Voyage of the Dawn Treader.’ If (that movie is) successful, I’d love to do ‘The Silver Chair’ after that...as long as you keep embracing these movies, we’ll make all seven.”
"Prince Caspian" hits stores on DVD and Blu-ray Dec. 2, 2008.
More news to come! Catch ya' later!
Nutty Professor 3
Universal and Imagine Entertainment have an open call out to writers for their take on a potential third entry in the "Nutty Professor" remake franchise from Jerry Lewis's version from 1963.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, "Although it has been eight years since the last 'Nutty' came out, executives are interested in a new version that would follow 'The Nutty Professor 2: The Klumps.'
Like 'The Nutty Professor,' 'Klumps' focused on Sherman Klump, a portly, gentle scientist (Eddie Murphy) who turns obnoxious after trying one of his own cures. In the second film, which expanded to include more of Klump's family members (many also played by Murphy), it was eternal youth that Klump sought.
The sequel to 1996's 'The Nutty Professor,' 'Klumps' had a less corpulent box office gross than its predecessor, earning $162 million worldwide vs. the $270 million of the first installment.
Still, the franchise has proved profitable, and a third installment could prove attractive for Universal, which like other studios has been relying increasingly on established brands.
Murphy is not attached to a new 'Nutty'; his involvement would be contingent on the writer, director and other elements. Murphy's comic versatility was seen as key to the success of the two "Nutty" movies, and it seems unlikely that a third installment could go forward without him."
What are your thoughts on a new "Nutty Professor?"
Ben Pearson from Ben's Daily Movie News features a video on recent movie news and gives his thoughts on a new "Nutty Professor" (among other movie news).
Roundup 11/23 from Ben Pearson on Vimeo.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, "Although it has been eight years since the last 'Nutty' came out, executives are interested in a new version that would follow 'The Nutty Professor 2: The Klumps.'
Like 'The Nutty Professor,' 'Klumps' focused on Sherman Klump, a portly, gentle scientist (Eddie Murphy) who turns obnoxious after trying one of his own cures. In the second film, which expanded to include more of Klump's family members (many also played by Murphy), it was eternal youth that Klump sought.
The sequel to 1996's 'The Nutty Professor,' 'Klumps' had a less corpulent box office gross than its predecessor, earning $162 million worldwide vs. the $270 million of the first installment.
Still, the franchise has proved profitable, and a third installment could prove attractive for Universal, which like other studios has been relying increasingly on established brands.
Murphy is not attached to a new 'Nutty'; his involvement would be contingent on the writer, director and other elements. Murphy's comic versatility was seen as key to the success of the two "Nutty" movies, and it seems unlikely that a third installment could go forward without him."
What are your thoughts on a new "Nutty Professor?"
Ben Pearson from Ben's Daily Movie News features a video on recent movie news and gives his thoughts on a new "Nutty Professor" (among other movie news).
Roundup 11/23 from Ben Pearson on Vimeo.
I Am Legend II, a Sequel or Prequel?
Yes, I did make a play on words with this title being similar to the story below.
I mentioned way back around two months ago about a possible "I Am Legend" prequel, which would show how the world came to be all dead n' empty n' crazy.
According to Ain't It Cool News, the possible prequel might be a possible sequel. How this happens, I don;'t know since (SPOILER) Will Smith's character dies at the end of the film.
"Let's start at the beginning. Smith is actually the one who developed the initial story. It took place several years before the original film and there were still pockets of survivors and the story centered around Smith interacting, bonding, and ultimately failing to save them. For months this was the story. Warner's didn't much care for it and Smith and Weiss eventually came on board and all parties agreed to change things up. Well this change is pretty insane, the film is no longer a prequel, it's a f***ing sequel!"
Weiss refers to D.B. Weiss who is reportedly writing the script for the next installment.
Screen Rant explained how a sequel might work is the story takes place after the alternate ending on the DVD of "I Am Legend."
"Interestingly enough, the alternate ending of 'I Am Legend' (which was far better in my opinion) that came along on the DVD has Neville living while paying tribute to earlier scenes and plot points of the film. Had that been the theatrically released ending, this quote from the source would make more sense."
What will become of the next "I Am Legend" film?
More news to come! Catch ya' later!
I mentioned way back around two months ago about a possible "I Am Legend" prequel, which would show how the world came to be all dead n' empty n' crazy.
According to Ain't It Cool News, the possible prequel might be a possible sequel. How this happens, I don;'t know since (SPOILER) Will Smith's character dies at the end of the film.
"Let's start at the beginning. Smith is actually the one who developed the initial story. It took place several years before the original film and there were still pockets of survivors and the story centered around Smith interacting, bonding, and ultimately failing to save them. For months this was the story. Warner's didn't much care for it and Smith and Weiss eventually came on board and all parties agreed to change things up. Well this change is pretty insane, the film is no longer a prequel, it's a f***ing sequel!"
Weiss refers to D.B. Weiss who is reportedly writing the script for the next installment.
Screen Rant explained how a sequel might work is the story takes place after the alternate ending on the DVD of "I Am Legend."
"Interestingly enough, the alternate ending of 'I Am Legend' (which was far better in my opinion) that came along on the DVD has Neville living while paying tribute to earlier scenes and plot points of the film. Had that been the theatrically released ending, this quote from the source would make more sense."
What will become of the next "I Am Legend" film?
More news to come! Catch ya' later!
Monday, November 24, 2008
X-Men: First Class - A Sequel or Prequel?
There is much discussion on the upcoming film "X-Men: First Class," where I first discussed here. Josh Schwartz will be the scribe for this next X-Men film, but will it focus on the young versions of Cyclops, Jean Grey and other early X-Men or will it take place after "X-Men: The Last Stand" and be about a new group of X-Men?
MTV interviewed comic book writer Marc Guggenheim, who pens the comic Young X-Men (which is about Cyclops forming a new, young X-Men team), about the upcoming "Fist Class" movie.
Guggenheim apparently learned about the new movie the same way most film fans did, by reading the article in Variety.
“It’s funny,” Guggenheim told us, “when they first talked about doing this [before Schwartz was attached], Variety had the project as ‘Young X-Men,’ so I thought it might be coming from the comic. But the idea of a junior group of X-Men has been around long before I started writing it.”
According to MTV News, "In the ’80s, there was 'The New Mutants,' which focused on Cannonball, Psyche, Sunspot, Wolfsbane, Karma, and of course, Kitty Pryde, who resented being put on the junior team. (This also gave rise decades later to 'Academy X,' with characters like Surge, Icarus, Elixer, Wallflower, and Wind Dancer.)
In the ’90s, there was 'Generation X,' where you had a group outside of Professor Xavier’s Academy for Gifted Youngsters being trained by Banshee and the White Queen, including Jubilee, Husk, Skin, M, Chamber, Psych, Synch, Penance, and Mondo. And this decade, Grant Morrison upgraded the concept of the junior X-Men in ‘New X-Men' (although if wasn’t the whole focus) by enlarging the school and including students such as Dust, Angel Salvadore, Beak, quintuplets the Stepford Cuckoos, Quentin Quire, and the Omega Gang.
But it’s from 'The New Mutants' class that Guggenheim draws from the most in his current series, 'Young X-Men,' which also includes new members like Ink. So if Schwartz’s “First Class” dips into his 'Young X-Men' series, he won’t mind."
“I certainly don’t feel like he’d be treading on any territory that I’ve established,” Guggenheim said. “The idea’s been around for a while. But I hope I’ve put new characters on the chessboard that he’d want to play with.”
According to The Geek Files, "Guggenheim says he's available for consultation on X-Men: First Class and would advise Josh to focus on the next generation of mutants from Last Stand, rather than doing the early years of Cyclops and Jean Grey. He also believes he should not feel bound by what's in the comics but should create some new characters from his own imagination."
“What movie would you rather see?” Guggenheim asked. “There’s more in the next generation than the junior versions of the very first group, now that you already have movies where they’re established as adults. Do a sequel, not a prequel.”
MTV interviewed comic book writer Marc Guggenheim, who pens the comic Young X-Men (which is about Cyclops forming a new, young X-Men team), about the upcoming "Fist Class" movie.
Guggenheim apparently learned about the new movie the same way most film fans did, by reading the article in Variety.
“It’s funny,” Guggenheim told us, “when they first talked about doing this [before Schwartz was attached], Variety had the project as ‘Young X-Men,’ so I thought it might be coming from the comic. But the idea of a junior group of X-Men has been around long before I started writing it.”
According to MTV News, "In the ’80s, there was 'The New Mutants,' which focused on Cannonball, Psyche, Sunspot, Wolfsbane, Karma, and of course, Kitty Pryde, who resented being put on the junior team. (This also gave rise decades later to 'Academy X,' with characters like Surge, Icarus, Elixer, Wallflower, and Wind Dancer.)
In the ’90s, there was 'Generation X,' where you had a group outside of Professor Xavier’s Academy for Gifted Youngsters being trained by Banshee and the White Queen, including Jubilee, Husk, Skin, M, Chamber, Psych, Synch, Penance, and Mondo. And this decade, Grant Morrison upgraded the concept of the junior X-Men in ‘New X-Men' (although if wasn’t the whole focus) by enlarging the school and including students such as Dust, Angel Salvadore, Beak, quintuplets the Stepford Cuckoos, Quentin Quire, and the Omega Gang.
But it’s from 'The New Mutants' class that Guggenheim draws from the most in his current series, 'Young X-Men,' which also includes new members like Ink. So if Schwartz’s “First Class” dips into his 'Young X-Men' series, he won’t mind."
“I certainly don’t feel like he’d be treading on any territory that I’ve established,” Guggenheim said. “The idea’s been around for a while. But I hope I’ve put new characters on the chessboard that he’d want to play with.”
According to The Geek Files, "Guggenheim says he's available for consultation on X-Men: First Class and would advise Josh to focus on the next generation of mutants from Last Stand, rather than doing the early years of Cyclops and Jean Grey. He also believes he should not feel bound by what's in the comics but should create some new characters from his own imagination."
“What movie would you rather see?” Guggenheim asked. “There’s more in the next generation than the junior versions of the very first group, now that you already have movies where they’re established as adults. Do a sequel, not a prequel.”
Box Office Results and Weekly Movie News
Movies coming out this Friday! Plot summaries thanks to IMDB!
Four Christmases - A comedy about a married couple (Witherspoon and Vaughn) from two divorced families who are tasked with attending four Christmas Day celebrations.
Transporter 3 - Frank Martin (Statham) puts the driving gloves on for a third mission: To deliver Valentina (Rudakova), the kidnapped daughter of a Ukranian government official, from Marseilles to Odessa on the Black Sea. En route, he'll have to contend with thugs who want to intercept Valentina's safe delivery and not let his personal feelings get in the way of his dangerous objective.
Australia - Set in northern Australia before World War II, an English aristocrat (Kidman) who inherits a sprawling ranch reluctantly pacts with a stock-man (Jackman) in order to protect her new property from a takeover plot. As the pair drive 2,000 head of cattle over unforgiving landscape, they experience the bombing of Darwin, Australia, by Japanese forces firsthand.
Milk - A chronicle of Harvey Milk's (Penn) ascent to become San Francisco's first openly gay city supervisor in 1977, and the political fallout that led to his assassination, as well as Mayor George Moscone's, the following year.
Movies coming out on DVD!
Hancock
Fred Claus
Space Chimps
Superman:Doomsday
Box Office Results for the Weekend!
1 Twilight$70.5 M
2 Quantum of Solace $27.4 M
3 Bolt $27.0 M
4 Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa $16.0 M
5 Role Models $7.2 M
No doubt that "Twilight" would take the prize for #1 movie in America this weekend. "Quantum of Solace" still holds strong, beating out the opening for "Bolt," showing Bond can still kick butt in theaters.
Four Christmases - A comedy about a married couple (Witherspoon and Vaughn) from two divorced families who are tasked with attending four Christmas Day celebrations.
Transporter 3 - Frank Martin (Statham) puts the driving gloves on for a third mission: To deliver Valentina (Rudakova), the kidnapped daughter of a Ukranian government official, from Marseilles to Odessa on the Black Sea. En route, he'll have to contend with thugs who want to intercept Valentina's safe delivery and not let his personal feelings get in the way of his dangerous objective.
Australia - Set in northern Australia before World War II, an English aristocrat (Kidman) who inherits a sprawling ranch reluctantly pacts with a stock-man (Jackman) in order to protect her new property from a takeover plot. As the pair drive 2,000 head of cattle over unforgiving landscape, they experience the bombing of Darwin, Australia, by Japanese forces firsthand.
Milk - A chronicle of Harvey Milk's (Penn) ascent to become San Francisco's first openly gay city supervisor in 1977, and the political fallout that led to his assassination, as well as Mayor George Moscone's, the following year.
Movies coming out on DVD!
Hancock
Fred Claus
Space Chimps
Superman:Doomsday
Box Office Results for the Weekend!
1 Twilight$70.5 M
2 Quantum of Solace $27.4 M
3 Bolt $27.0 M
4 Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa $16.0 M
5 Role Models $7.2 M
No doubt that "Twilight" would take the prize for #1 movie in America this weekend. "Quantum of Solace" still holds strong, beating out the opening for "Bolt," showing Bond can still kick butt in theaters.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Rhodey in Iron Man 2
Terrence Howard is out of "Iron Man 2" and Don Cheadle is in as Rhodey, but there was some concern that the character would not be a major character in the film. This worries some fans who hope to see Rhodey don the War Machine armor some day.
Justin Theroux, writer for the upcoming "Iron Man 2" told MTV News that Rhodey will definitely be in the film.
“I can’t really speak to the plot stuff and all the rest of it but Rhodes is completely present in a very strong and big way,” Theroux said of the man who would be War Machine. “He’s completely present.”
News that Rhodey's role in "Iron Man 2" would be minor came from an article from Entertainment Weekly. The article states, "when Favreau and screenwriter Justin Theroux went to map out the sequel they found themselves minimizing Howard's [Rhodey's] story line."
Theroux had his own thoughts on that EW article.
"All that stuff that was in the ‘EW’ article,” Theroux started before a brief pause. “I don’t know. I can only tell you what I know which is that from a writing standpoint we didn’t do anything differently [with the character]. It’s not like we were sitting there going, we need less of this or that. We just approached the characters and the story on their own terms.”
Do you wanna see Rhodey become War Machine? More news to come! Catch ya' later!
Justin Theroux, writer for the upcoming "Iron Man 2" told MTV News that Rhodey will definitely be in the film.
“I can’t really speak to the plot stuff and all the rest of it but Rhodes is completely present in a very strong and big way,” Theroux said of the man who would be War Machine. “He’s completely present.”
News that Rhodey's role in "Iron Man 2" would be minor came from an article from Entertainment Weekly. The article states, "when Favreau and screenwriter Justin Theroux went to map out the sequel they found themselves minimizing Howard's [Rhodey's] story line."
Theroux had his own thoughts on that EW article.
"All that stuff that was in the ‘EW’ article,” Theroux started before a brief pause. “I don’t know. I can only tell you what I know which is that from a writing standpoint we didn’t do anything differently [with the character]. It’s not like we were sitting there going, we need less of this or that. We just approached the characters and the story on their own terms.”
Do you wanna see Rhodey become War Machine? More news to come! Catch ya' later!
The Incredible Hulk 2
Around a month ago I reported about Gale Ann Hurd (producer of "The Incredible Hulk") stating how she wanted there to be a sequel and how she would go about that.
From that post Hurd said she wanted Tim Blake Nelson, who played Samuel Sterns in the film, to return and become the Leader, as was hinted at in "The Incredible Hulk" when Bruce Banner's blood dripped onto Stern's head and it began to mutate.
Tim Blake Nelson, not only an actor but also a filmmaker, spoke to MTV news, who also is the group that had the interview with Gale Ann Hurd.
“I know Gale Ann was talking to you guys about that recently, and I liked hearing it," Nelson said to MTV News about him being in the sequel.
According to MTV News, "These days, the talented writer/director/actor is in a dark editing bay assembling 'Leaves of Grass,' a quirky 2009 drama that features Edward Norton in a dual performance. Nelson told us that during the shooting of 'Leaves,' he and Norton sometimes spoke about their recent blockbuster experience, but he still can’t say with confidence that Norton will return following his rumored falling-out with Marvel Studios."
“I feel Edward and I are well-suited for one another. It’s really fun collaborating with him, and he made these characters [in ‘Hulk’ and ‘Leaves’] better,” explained Nelson, revealing that although he’d prefer not to, he would return even if Norton is removed from the series.
“Well, I’m signed on to do ‘Hulk 2’ and ‘3’ whether Edward’s there or not, so it’s not even up to me,” he explained. “When I agreed to do ‘Hulk,’ I signed off for two sequels, so it’s a moot question. I certainly hope Edward is on the sequel — but that’s up to Marvel and Edward.”
Nelson says that when it time comes for him to return for a Hulk sequel, he will be ready to turn green and show off his big brain. “Oh, I already did [research into The Leader] when I was doing [Dr. Samuel] Sterns, because I felt that it would be helpful to lay in stuff as Sterns for what The Leader would be,” he explained of the super-intelligent baddie with a desire to take over the world. “So, that was all part of doing Sterns.”
More news to come on a Hulk sequel! Catch ya' later!
Wolfman Possibly Delayed
Fangoria reported some disturbing news about the upcoming "The Wolfman" remake.
"Fango just heard through the grapevine that we may have to wait a little longer to see Benicio Del Toro get hairy. Word is that Universal is delaying 'The Wolfman' from its previously announced April 3 debut to sometime next fall.
Directed by Joe ('Jurassic Park III') Johnston from a script by Andrew Kevin Walker and David Self, the remake of Universal’s 1941 classic 'The Wolf Man' stars Del Toro as Lawrence Talbot, who in this scenario is an actor who returns to his ancestral home and falls victim to the lycanthropic curse. Oscar-winning monster maker Rick Baker created Talbot’s beastly side and the carnage (which we’re told will be R-rated) he creates. We’ll try to sniff out specific new release-date news to bring to you; our magazine coverage of 'The Wolfman' begins in Fango #279, on sale in December."
"Fango just heard through the grapevine that we may have to wait a little longer to see Benicio Del Toro get hairy. Word is that Universal is delaying 'The Wolfman' from its previously announced April 3 debut to sometime next fall.
Directed by Joe ('Jurassic Park III') Johnston from a script by Andrew Kevin Walker and David Self, the remake of Universal’s 1941 classic 'The Wolf Man' stars Del Toro as Lawrence Talbot, who in this scenario is an actor who returns to his ancestral home and falls victim to the lycanthropic curse. Oscar-winning monster maker Rick Baker created Talbot’s beastly side and the carnage (which we’re told will be R-rated) he creates. We’ll try to sniff out specific new release-date news to bring to you; our magazine coverage of 'The Wolfman' begins in Fango #279, on sale in December."
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Captain Marvel Movie
Variety announces news about the "Mr. Marvel" movie and the sequel to "Get Smart."
"Warner Bros. has staked 'Get Smart' director Peter Segal and his Callahan Filmworks partner Michael Ewing to a three-year first-look deal.
Segal and Ewing kick off the pact with 'Liam McBain: International Tennis Star and Proper English Geezer,' a Chip Hall-scripted spec. Segal will develop to direct a film that follows the rise, fall and ultimate redemption of a fictional British tennis star of the '80s.
As part of the deal, WB has also acquired the John August-scripted 'Captain Marvel'; Segal will direct the DC Comics adaptation. He and Ewing began working on the film two years ago at New Line, but the property has moved over to WB. Pic tells the story of teenaged Billy Batson, who transforms into the superhero when he says the word 'Shazam!'
Segal and Ewing met on 'Naked Gun 33 1/3' and formed a company named after the auto parts company in the Segal-directed 1995 Chris Farley comedy 'Tommy Boy.' Their last deal was at Paramount, where Segal directed 'The Longest Yard' remake.
Deal comes as Segal prepares to direct a sequel to 'Get Smart' for WB and Village Roadshow Pictures. Ewing was a producer of the original pic, along with Chuck Roven, Alex Gartner and Andrew Lazar. Segal was an executive producer.
Tom J. Astle and Matt Ember returned to write the sequel script, and the film is expected to shoot next year, depending upon the availability of Steve Carell, who'll return with Anne Hathaway and Alan Arkin."
The film is going to be called "Billy Batson and the Legend of Shazam" (kind of a long title for s superhero).
ore news to come! Catch ya' later!
Other sources: The Geek Files, Latino Review
More Bourne. More Ludlum
Latino Review has an excellent post on new Jason Bourne movies coming out and about other films based on Robert Ludlum novels. Check it out!
"Universal Pictures has made an overall deal with the estate of 'The Bourne Identity' author Robert Ludlum that gives the studio exclusive rights to the Jason Bourne character and first look at other Ludlum novels.
The deal with Ludlum Entertainment paves the way for more installments in the Bourne saga, which was originally envisioned as a three-picture series but has become Universal's answer to James Bond.
After the first three films grossed a total of more than $1 billion worldwide, U signed Matt Damon and director Paul Greengrass for a fourth film that George Nolfi is penning. Produced by Frank Marshall and Ludlum Entertainment chairman-CEO Jeffrey Weiner, the film will be readied for a summer 2010 release.
Weiner will take offices on the Universal lot as part of the deal and hire development executives as the company takes an active hand in developing projects, including some not based on books by Ludlum. Weiner was the author's accountant for 16 years before being tapped by Ludlum to be estate executor and to run the holding company that produces his movies and publishes his books and videogames.
'Universal has done such an excellent job with the first three films that they deserve the opportunity to keep Jason Bourne at the studio forever,' Weiner told Daily Variety.
The deal was put together by U co-president of production Jimmy Horowitz and president of production Donna Langley, who said that the gritty action style has rubbed off on other action fare.
The deal also gives Universal an inside track on other Ludlum books that would be developed with Ludlum Entertainment. That is especially valuable for U, whose chairman Marc Shmuger and co-chairman David Linde have made franchises a priority.
Universal tried but didn't win 'The Matarese Circle' when that Ludlum Cold War thriller was shopped last April, with Denzel Washington attached along with 'Wanted' scribes Michael Brandt and Derek Haas. MGM and Relativity won the auction; they've set David Cronenberg to direct a film expected to begin production next year. Ludlum titles routinely turn into seven-figure packages, including the $4 million Paramount paid for 'The Chancellor Manuscript' in 2005, with Leonardo DiCaprio attached to star and produce with Red Wagon.
Universal is developing another Ludlum book, 'The Sigma Protocol,' with Strike Entertainment partners Marc Abraham and Eric Newman. Summit Entertainment has 'The Osterman Weekend,' [which will be a remake of 'The Osterman Weekend' from 1983] with Simon Kinberg set to write and direct.
There are plenty more where those came from.
'There is a deep Ludlum library. Over 25 of his novels have never been exploited in movies,' Weiner said. He recalled that Ludlum watched a couple of his titles get turned into movies during the early 1980s, and he was underwhelmed by the result. The author died while 'The Bourne Identity' was in production. Now, the estate has contractual approval not only on screenplays but also on characters and even actors, Weiner said.
'The goal is to pick the right people to be in business with, so you don't have to wield these things like a club,' Weiner said. "If you get to that point, you're in business with the wrong people."
If you like Bourne and Ludlum, then you must be happy.
More news to come! Catch ya' later!
"Universal Pictures has made an overall deal with the estate of 'The Bourne Identity' author Robert Ludlum that gives the studio exclusive rights to the Jason Bourne character and first look at other Ludlum novels.
The deal with Ludlum Entertainment paves the way for more installments in the Bourne saga, which was originally envisioned as a three-picture series but has become Universal's answer to James Bond.
After the first three films grossed a total of more than $1 billion worldwide, U signed Matt Damon and director Paul Greengrass for a fourth film that George Nolfi is penning. Produced by Frank Marshall and Ludlum Entertainment chairman-CEO Jeffrey Weiner, the film will be readied for a summer 2010 release.
Weiner will take offices on the Universal lot as part of the deal and hire development executives as the company takes an active hand in developing projects, including some not based on books by Ludlum. Weiner was the author's accountant for 16 years before being tapped by Ludlum to be estate executor and to run the holding company that produces his movies and publishes his books and videogames.
'Universal has done such an excellent job with the first three films that they deserve the opportunity to keep Jason Bourne at the studio forever,' Weiner told Daily Variety.
The deal was put together by U co-president of production Jimmy Horowitz and president of production Donna Langley, who said that the gritty action style has rubbed off on other action fare.
The deal also gives Universal an inside track on other Ludlum books that would be developed with Ludlum Entertainment. That is especially valuable for U, whose chairman Marc Shmuger and co-chairman David Linde have made franchises a priority.
Universal tried but didn't win 'The Matarese Circle' when that Ludlum Cold War thriller was shopped last April, with Denzel Washington attached along with 'Wanted' scribes Michael Brandt and Derek Haas. MGM and Relativity won the auction; they've set David Cronenberg to direct a film expected to begin production next year. Ludlum titles routinely turn into seven-figure packages, including the $4 million Paramount paid for 'The Chancellor Manuscript' in 2005, with Leonardo DiCaprio attached to star and produce with Red Wagon.
Universal is developing another Ludlum book, 'The Sigma Protocol,' with Strike Entertainment partners Marc Abraham and Eric Newman. Summit Entertainment has 'The Osterman Weekend,' [which will be a remake of 'The Osterman Weekend' from 1983] with Simon Kinberg set to write and direct.
There are plenty more where those came from.
'There is a deep Ludlum library. Over 25 of his novels have never been exploited in movies,' Weiner said. He recalled that Ludlum watched a couple of his titles get turned into movies during the early 1980s, and he was underwhelmed by the result. The author died while 'The Bourne Identity' was in production. Now, the estate has contractual approval not only on screenplays but also on characters and even actors, Weiner said.
'The goal is to pick the right people to be in business with, so you don't have to wield these things like a club,' Weiner said. "If you get to that point, you're in business with the wrong people."
If you like Bourne and Ludlum, then you must be happy.
More news to come! Catch ya' later!
Friday, November 21, 2008
Wolverine and Deadpool
According to MTV News, "Former 20th Century Fox Studio Exec Jeff Katz (who had returned from the set of 'Wolverine' just a few months ago) offered up his own thoughts about the potential for a 'Deadpool' movie — as well as what you can expect to see in 'Wolverine,' bub.
'The film nicely tees [Deadpool] off for his own spin-off film,' said Katz, who raved about Ryan Reynolds‘ portrayal of the wise-cracking mercenary. In Marvel’s comic book universe, Wade Wilson (a.k.a. Deadpool) is a product of the same “Weapon X” experiments that Wolverine was subjected to by the Canadian government, but the experiments left him disfigured and mentally unstable.
Katz’ comments seemed to reiterate those of Fox Chairman Tom Rothman, who previously addressed the possibility of a 'Deadpool' spin-off and commented on the tone of 'Wolverine.' According to Katz, 'X-Men Origins: Wolverine' is “certainly the most violent” of the X-Men movies thus far, with a darker tone and significantly more action than its predecessors.
Of course, before 'Deadpool' gets the go-ahead, there’s still another X-Men character likely to take a solo turn on the big screens: Magneto."
I still can't wait for "Wolverine" and "Magneto" to come out, but a "Deadpool" film would be awesome.
More news to come! Catch ya' later!
Terminator Salvation
THE END BEGINS
Some more news (finally) about "Terminator Salvation" has come out, all thanks to McG, real name Joseph McGinty Nichol.
McG says he has mapped out a trilogy to revive the hit sc-fi franchise, with star Christian Bale and scribe Jonathan Nolan (who co-wrote The Dark Knight) both signed for two more films.
Some of the things I will report are thanks to McG clearing up rumors on Total Film. Check out the rumors being debunked there.
The movie, set in 2018 in the aftermath of a nuclear holocaust, depicts what McG described as a "dirty, difficult, grimy world" in which Christian Bale plays John Connor, the leader of a resistance against the killer cyborgs. "When [Bale] came on board I knew we had the chance to do something special," the director told reporters.
When Bale was first approached about the film, he gave McG a solid no, unless the director was able to convince him the film would succeed as serious drama and as an action blockbuster - Bale insisted on a 'cold reading' of the screenplay on stage to prove it could work without the benefit of special effects and stunts.
McG says that alongside Connor's journey to becoming leader, the film is also about "where does humanity end and machine begin?". In Salvation, Connor learns that the T-800 - the first of the Terminator models able to blend in thanks to its human tissue - is in existence a decade sooner than expected. This is a key driving force for the story and McG admitted: "The T-800's a big character in the film."
“We’re trying to synthesise a human character with a CGI character and that may or may not have something to do with the T800,” McG told us with a smile. It's rumoured that Schwarzenegger has allowed his image to be digitally superimposed on a Terminator's face, meaning he still may be the T800.
"Terminator Salvation" hits theaters May 22, 2009. More news to comes! Catch ya' later!
Source: The Geek Files
Gearhead
Some cool news for those who love comics and movies! "Gearhead" is going to be made!
"Gale Anne Hurd’s Valhalla Motion Pictures has closed a deal for the film rights to produce the graphic novel 'Gearhead' which Hurd will produce. 'Gearhead' was created by Dennis Hopeless and Kevin Mellon and published by Arcana Comics.
In 'Gearhead,' a young woman teams up with a group of rebels to fight the
corrupt superheroes who govern the United States. She must rise to the
challenge of her destiny and become 'Gearhead.'
“We are excited to bring "Gearhead" to life. It’s a terrific
character-driven story set in a unique and compelling world,” said Hurd.
'To work with Gale on 'Gearhead' is simply fantastic. We couldn’t have
found a better partner,' Arcana Studio’s Sean O’Reilly commented.
Gale Anne Hurd and Valhalla Motion Pictures most recently produced the
blockbuster feature 'The Incredible Hulk' for Marvel Studios which was
released by Universal Pictures this summer. Valhalla is continually
developing a broad range of projects, including Marvel’s 'Punisher: War
Zone' for Lionsgate and Sony Pictures Entertainment which stars Ray
Stevenson and is being released on December 5, 2008. Hurd has produced
more than two dozen feature films that have generated billions of dollars
of revenue. Her other credits include 'The Terminator,' 'Aliens,' 'Armageddon,'
'Aeon Flux,' 'The Punisher,' 'Terminator 2: Judgment Day' and 'Terminator 3:
Rise of The Machines' among others.
Arcana Comics has published over 150 original comics and books and is a
division of Arcana, an award winning transmedia company founded by CEO and owner Sean O’Reilly. Arcana establishes new brands and intellectual properties with engaging storytelling and compelling visuals through comic books, graphic novels, animation, short-form live-action, video games, toys and now, feature length films. Arcana has created original brands they control such as The Clockwork Girl and Kade, and have further developed existing brands for Disney, Sony, Capcom, HBO and more."
Sources: Latino Review, Variety
More news to come on "Gearhead!" Catch ya' later!
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Night at the Museum 2
USA Today got a first look at the new Ben Stiller movie, "Night at the Museum 2: Battle of the Smithsonian." Check it out!
"After 2006's 'Night at the Museum' pulled in nearly $575 million worldwide, director Shawn Levy wanted the inevitable sequel to step up the action.
He's more than pleased with the result: "Night at the Museum 2: Battle of the Smithsonian," out May 22. 'This movie has one of the best comedic casts ever assembled, the visual effects are mind-blowing, and the story is more emotional,' he says.
Once again, museum exhibits come to life, but this time at the Smithsonian in Washington, where filming included scenes shot at the National Air and Space Museum. The D.C. setting also filmed at the Lincoln Memorial — where Honest Abe will come to 'life.'
So will General Custer, Albert Einstein and a giant squid that befuddles Ben Stiller's Larry Daley as he searches for his pal museum pieces Octavius and Jedediah, who have been shipped there.
Daley, the former night museum security guard, has become a successful gadget company CEO. But he has lost his joy and wonderment at the world. 'He's' sort of lost his way,' Levy says. 'This movie is about reclaiming himself.'"
Stiller himself said how glad he was to be back for a second movie.
"I really had such a good time, and I liked this script — it's better than the first film. It's not just the comedy. It's the fantasy element," Stiller said.
Also returning for the sequel: Robin Williams, Dick Van Dyke, Owen Wilson and Ricky Gervais. Newcomers include Christopher Guest, Hank Azaria, Eugene Levy, Saturday Night Live's Bill Hader and Enchanted's Amy Adams, who plays famed aviator Amelia Earhart.
In this sequel, Adams (who plays Earhart) will be Stiller's (Daley) romance. Don't know how that will work since she isn't real...and what happened to the girl from the last movie who wanted to talk to Sacajawea? And will his son be back in this too?
We will have to see the movie and find out.
The big question is will there be a third "Night at the Museum?"
"There are rumblings of another installment," Levy says. "We would love to take this premise (further). But even to say there's a likely third film is premature. We're not going to jinx things."
More news to come! Catch ya' later!
"After 2006's 'Night at the Museum' pulled in nearly $575 million worldwide, director Shawn Levy wanted the inevitable sequel to step up the action.
He's more than pleased with the result: "Night at the Museum 2: Battle of the Smithsonian," out May 22. 'This movie has one of the best comedic casts ever assembled, the visual effects are mind-blowing, and the story is more emotional,' he says.
Once again, museum exhibits come to life, but this time at the Smithsonian in Washington, where filming included scenes shot at the National Air and Space Museum. The D.C. setting also filmed at the Lincoln Memorial — where Honest Abe will come to 'life.'
So will General Custer, Albert Einstein and a giant squid that befuddles Ben Stiller's Larry Daley as he searches for his pal museum pieces Octavius and Jedediah, who have been shipped there.
Daley, the former night museum security guard, has become a successful gadget company CEO. But he has lost his joy and wonderment at the world. 'He's' sort of lost his way,' Levy says. 'This movie is about reclaiming himself.'"
Stiller himself said how glad he was to be back for a second movie.
"I really had such a good time, and I liked this script — it's better than the first film. It's not just the comedy. It's the fantasy element," Stiller said.
Also returning for the sequel: Robin Williams, Dick Van Dyke, Owen Wilson and Ricky Gervais. Newcomers include Christopher Guest, Hank Azaria, Eugene Levy, Saturday Night Live's Bill Hader and Enchanted's Amy Adams, who plays famed aviator Amelia Earhart.
In this sequel, Adams (who plays Earhart) will be Stiller's (Daley) romance. Don't know how that will work since she isn't real...and what happened to the girl from the last movie who wanted to talk to Sacajawea? And will his son be back in this too?
We will have to see the movie and find out.
The big question is will there be a third "Night at the Museum?"
"There are rumblings of another installment," Levy says. "We would love to take this premise (further). But even to say there's a likely third film is premature. We're not going to jinx things."
More news to come! Catch ya' later!
Astro Boy Teaser Trailer
"Astro Boy" finally gets a teaser trailer.
"Astro Boy" was created by the "god of manga," Japan's Osamu Tezuka, in the early 1950s. The iconic character has since found wide popularity around the world as the hero of three acclaimed animated television series spanning the past four decades, besides being one of the top licensed properties for merchandising.
From the synopsis: "Set in futuristic Metro City, Astro Boy is about a young robot with incredible powers. Powered by pure positive "blue" energy, Astro Boy (Freddie Highmore) is endowed with super strength, x-ray vision, unbelievable speed and the ability to fly-not to mention the purest spirit on the planet. Embarking on a journey across the planet to discover his powers, Astro Boy encounters a netherworld of robot gladiators and other comic characters, and learns the joys and emotions of being human. When he learns his friends and family are in danger, Astro Boy marshals all his awesome super powers and returns to Metro City, in a valiant effort to save everything he cares about and to embrace his place in the world."
Enjoy!
"Astro Boy" was created by the "god of manga," Japan's Osamu Tezuka, in the early 1950s. The iconic character has since found wide popularity around the world as the hero of three acclaimed animated television series spanning the past four decades, besides being one of the top licensed properties for merchandising.
From the synopsis: "Set in futuristic Metro City, Astro Boy is about a young robot with incredible powers. Powered by pure positive "blue" energy, Astro Boy (Freddie Highmore) is endowed with super strength, x-ray vision, unbelievable speed and the ability to fly-not to mention the purest spirit on the planet. Embarking on a journey across the planet to discover his powers, Astro Boy encounters a netherworld of robot gladiators and other comic characters, and learns the joys and emotions of being human. When he learns his friends and family are in danger, Astro Boy marshals all his awesome super powers and returns to Metro City, in a valiant effort to save everything he cares about and to embrace his place in the world."
Enjoy!
From Kung-Fu To He-Man
John Stevenson, director of the summer hit "Kung Fu Panda," was seen leaving the offices of "Matrix" producer Joel Silver, who has been trying to get "Masters Of the Universe" off the ground for some time now. Word is that Silver and Co. were very impressed with Stevenson’s take on the He-Man legend, enough so to take another crack at the stalled film.
Stevenson works more with animation than art design, so there is some thoughts that the new He-Man movie might be CGI instead of live action. And will the film still be called "Grayskull?" (A movie I spoke about a while ago here)
More news will have to come on this interesting set of news.
Sources: Screen Rant, Latino Review
Captain America Writers
According to Variety, "Marvel Studios has engaged Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely to script 'Captain America,' a film that has Joe Johnston attached to direct.
Markus and McFeely were co-writers of both 'Chronicles of Narnia' films as well as the HBO telepic 'The Life and Death of Peter Sellers.'"
Screen Rant decided to argue Marvel's decision on hiring these two writers, saying they weren't experienced enough to write a super hero movie based in WWII.
"Okay, so I understand Marvel’s choice for Joe Johnston as the director. The man has a long list of films (and f/x work) on his resume that cover all the necessary action/epic/emotional bases needed to make a legendary Captain America film. (I’ll be the first to admit I teared up at the end of 'Hidalgo.')
But Markus and McFeely are left-field choices in my opinion. Granted, 'The Chronicles of Narnia' films also combine a variety of tones and genres into one, epic brew–but both 'The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe' and 'Prince Caspian' felt as hollow as a bird’s bones when I saw them in the theater. (Perhaps the director is to blame?) I do not want Cap to share that fate.
More to the point, 'The First Avenger: Captain America' is a WWII epic/period-piece. And, after having run an IMDB check on both Markus and McFeely, I can say that nothing in their short, short, lists of movies leads me to jump to the conclusion that they have a keen eye for the sort of nuanced symbolism, hard-hitting action, thrills, chills and emotional grandeur that should go with a beloved character like Captain America."
Latino Review gave me a refresher on the history of Captain America and Marvel's plans on having him brought into the "Avengers."
"Created in 1941 by Jack Kirby and Joe Simon for Timely Comics, Captain America is the heroic alter ego of Steve Rogers, who is rejected by the Army for being too sickly and undergoes an experiment that takes him to the pinnacle of human form. Paired with an indestructible shield, he becomes a symbol of the war effort, fighting Nazis and villainous scientists like the Red Skull.
In modern times, the character starred in his own long-running comic series and also was a charter member of Marvel's superteam, the Avengers.
Kicking off with 'Iron Man,' Marvel Studios' slate of movies -- including 'Thor' and the 'Iron Man' sequel -- is building toward an "Avengers" movie set for release in 2011, in which the characters from the films team for one big adventure. 'Captain America' is scheduled for release May 6, 2011."
More news to come! Catch ya' later!
Markus and McFeely were co-writers of both 'Chronicles of Narnia' films as well as the HBO telepic 'The Life and Death of Peter Sellers.'"
Screen Rant decided to argue Marvel's decision on hiring these two writers, saying they weren't experienced enough to write a super hero movie based in WWII.
"Okay, so I understand Marvel’s choice for Joe Johnston as the director. The man has a long list of films (and f/x work) on his resume that cover all the necessary action/epic/emotional bases needed to make a legendary Captain America film. (I’ll be the first to admit I teared up at the end of 'Hidalgo.')
But Markus and McFeely are left-field choices in my opinion. Granted, 'The Chronicles of Narnia' films also combine a variety of tones and genres into one, epic brew–but both 'The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe' and 'Prince Caspian' felt as hollow as a bird’s bones when I saw them in the theater. (Perhaps the director is to blame?) I do not want Cap to share that fate.
More to the point, 'The First Avenger: Captain America' is a WWII epic/period-piece. And, after having run an IMDB check on both Markus and McFeely, I can say that nothing in their short, short, lists of movies leads me to jump to the conclusion that they have a keen eye for the sort of nuanced symbolism, hard-hitting action, thrills, chills and emotional grandeur that should go with a beloved character like Captain America."
Latino Review gave me a refresher on the history of Captain America and Marvel's plans on having him brought into the "Avengers."
"Created in 1941 by Jack Kirby and Joe Simon for Timely Comics, Captain America is the heroic alter ego of Steve Rogers, who is rejected by the Army for being too sickly and undergoes an experiment that takes him to the pinnacle of human form. Paired with an indestructible shield, he becomes a symbol of the war effort, fighting Nazis and villainous scientists like the Red Skull.
In modern times, the character starred in his own long-running comic series and also was a charter member of Marvel's superteam, the Avengers.
Kicking off with 'Iron Man,' Marvel Studios' slate of movies -- including 'Thor' and the 'Iron Man' sequel -- is building toward an "Avengers" movie set for release in 2011, in which the characters from the films team for one big adventure. 'Captain America' is scheduled for release May 6, 2011."
More news to come! Catch ya' later!
Coraline Trailer
The trailer for "Coraline" just came out. Check it out and decide whether or not you think it might be a good movie. I hear the graphic novel is cool.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
X-Men: First Class
According to Variety, "Twentieth Century Fox is gearing up to continue its "X-Men" franchise with a younger set of mutants.
Studio has tapped 'Gossip Girl' creator Josh Schwartz to write 'X-Men: First Class.'
Schwartz, the creator and exec producer of CW's teen sudser hit as well as Fox's youth-centric 'The OC' and NBC's 'Chuck,' is expected to inject a next-gen sensibility into the superhero series, which has earned $1.2 billion worldwide.
Writing assignment has also included the possibility of directing the pic, but so far Schwartz has opted not to take the helm.
Lauren Shuler Donner, who produced all three 'X-Men' pics, as well as next summer's 'X-Men Origins: Wolverine,' is producing 'First Class' alongside 'Mr. and Mrs. Smith' scribe Simon Kinberg.
Fox is keeping quiet on plans and declined to confirm details of the project. The studio has been considering ways to continue its successful series of 'X-Men' movies after the third installment, the Brett Ratner-helmed 'X-Men: The Last Stand,' collected $459 million in 2006.
Fox has been leaning toward using the younger characters introduced in the previous pics in future installments -- teenagers with powers taught at the Xavier Institute for Higher Learning."
Latino Review notes that "since its dismal summer at the box office, Fox has placed renewed attention on its 'X-Men' franchise. The studio, which is actively developing a standalone 'Magneto' pic, also is considering creating a 'Deadpool' spinoff, based on a character played by Ryan Reynolds in 'Wolverine.'"
Fox is keeping quiet on its plans and declined to confirm details of the project to any of the sources I have checked out. But I read an interesting bit on what characters might be in the film.
According to The Geek Files, "Over 40 years ago, the world was introduced to a team of mutant superheroes that would change the world forever - the 'X-Men.' Today, they are battle-hardened superheroes who have saved the world many times over. But originally they started out as students at the Xavier School for Gifted Youngsters.
'First Class' would likely draw from elements of the Marvel comic of the same name, launched in 2006. The film would feature such characters as Iceman, Rogue, Angel, Colossus, Jubilee and Shadowcat, which contradicts the comic book line-up and the official synopsis as well as fans' understanding that it would focus on the early years of Xavier's school with younger versions of Cyclops, Beast, Jean Grey, Storm and other mutants."
More news to come! Catch ya' later!
Studio has tapped 'Gossip Girl' creator Josh Schwartz to write 'X-Men: First Class.'
Schwartz, the creator and exec producer of CW's teen sudser hit as well as Fox's youth-centric 'The OC' and NBC's 'Chuck,' is expected to inject a next-gen sensibility into the superhero series, which has earned $1.2 billion worldwide.
Writing assignment has also included the possibility of directing the pic, but so far Schwartz has opted not to take the helm.
Lauren Shuler Donner, who produced all three 'X-Men' pics, as well as next summer's 'X-Men Origins: Wolverine,' is producing 'First Class' alongside 'Mr. and Mrs. Smith' scribe Simon Kinberg.
Fox is keeping quiet on plans and declined to confirm details of the project. The studio has been considering ways to continue its successful series of 'X-Men' movies after the third installment, the Brett Ratner-helmed 'X-Men: The Last Stand,' collected $459 million in 2006.
Fox has been leaning toward using the younger characters introduced in the previous pics in future installments -- teenagers with powers taught at the Xavier Institute for Higher Learning."
Latino Review notes that "since its dismal summer at the box office, Fox has placed renewed attention on its 'X-Men' franchise. The studio, which is actively developing a standalone 'Magneto' pic, also is considering creating a 'Deadpool' spinoff, based on a character played by Ryan Reynolds in 'Wolverine.'"
Fox is keeping quiet on its plans and declined to confirm details of the project to any of the sources I have checked out. But I read an interesting bit on what characters might be in the film.
According to The Geek Files, "Over 40 years ago, the world was introduced to a team of mutant superheroes that would change the world forever - the 'X-Men.' Today, they are battle-hardened superheroes who have saved the world many times over. But originally they started out as students at the Xavier School for Gifted Youngsters.
'First Class' would likely draw from elements of the Marvel comic of the same name, launched in 2006. The film would feature such characters as Iceman, Rogue, Angel, Colossus, Jubilee and Shadowcat, which contradicts the comic book line-up and the official synopsis as well as fans' understanding that it would focus on the early years of Xavier's school with younger versions of Cyclops, Beast, Jean Grey, Storm and other mutants."
More news to come! Catch ya' later!
Hellboy III Future Prospects
With "Hellboy II: The Golden Army" out on DVD now, the future is looking bright for a third installment for the franchise. Right now director Guillermo Del Toro has a lot of films on his schedule, including the upcoming "The Hobbit," the prequel to the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy.
Del Toro was asked how he would feel if Universal had a new director replace him if he was too busy to make a third film.
"It's not up to me and if they want to go that route then it would happen that way, I don't control the franchise. I would love for them to wait after all...I would love to do the third one and finish this incarnation of Hellboy the way we started it, consistent with the way we started it. But, it's up to them. The reality is that those are not decisions under a director's control."
Then there is the possibility that there will be a B.P.R.D. (the secret branch of the government that Hellboy works for) spin-off film, since technically Hellboy leaves at the end of the second film.
"I would love to watch it. Because in reality the way Mike (Mike Mignola, owner of the Hellboy characters) has set it up, it could happen," Del Toro said. "And I would love to see Johan and Abe and everybody. That would be great. I personally would buy the DVD when it comes out."
More news to come! Catch ya' later!
Sources: IESB, MTV News
Del Toro was asked how he would feel if Universal had a new director replace him if he was too busy to make a third film.
"It's not up to me and if they want to go that route then it would happen that way, I don't control the franchise. I would love for them to wait after all...I would love to do the third one and finish this incarnation of Hellboy the way we started it, consistent with the way we started it. But, it's up to them. The reality is that those are not decisions under a director's control."
Then there is the possibility that there will be a B.P.R.D. (the secret branch of the government that Hellboy works for) spin-off film, since technically Hellboy leaves at the end of the second film.
"I would love to watch it. Because in reality the way Mike (Mike Mignola, owner of the Hellboy characters) has set it up, it could happen," Del Toro said. "And I would love to see Johan and Abe and everybody. That would be great. I personally would buy the DVD when it comes out."
More news to come! Catch ya' later!
Sources: IESB, MTV News
The American Host
According to SCI FI Wire, "Bong Joon-ho, director of the Korean-language monster movie 'The Host', told SCI FI Wire that Universal Studios will remake the film for American audiences and that he hopes they do the original film justice. The studio has purchased the rights to The Host, which centers on a dysfunctional family that must overcome its differences to save its daughter, who's been grabbed by a creature that an unresponsive government declares is the host of an unidentified virus."
"Maybe three or four years down the line, if 'The Host' [remake] comes out, and there's a cool director who takes it on and makes it a real great film, then I'd be very happy," Bong said in an interview, through a translator. "On the other hand, if it's just crap, I think I'd be happy, too, because then people would be like, 'Oh, yeah, Bong's original was really good.' So, for me, it's a win-win situation. But Universal has a tradition of doing horror and creature films, so I anticipate that they will do a great film."
According to Variety, "Universal Pictures and Gore Verbinski will remake the 2006 Bong Joon-ho-directed Korean thriller 'The Host,' with commercials director Fredrik Bond making his feature helming debut and Mark Poirier ('Smart People') to pen the script.
Story follows a town terrorized by a giant mutant squidlike creature hatched by toxins that flow into a nearby river from a military base. When the creature grabs a little girl, her dysfunctional family must band together to rescue her.
Verbinski will produce with Vertigo's Roy Lee and Doug Davison, along with Paul Brooks.
Bond has directed campaigns for Nike, Adidas and Levi's. He and Verbinski had been looking for a project to do together, and Bond said he embraced the opportunity to mix a larger-than-life monster with a heartfelt family drama."
First of all, how good is the original "The Host?" I have not seen it, so I will have to rely on others who have.
According to Rope of Silicon, "Bong gets his point across in regards to meddling governments, mistrust, lies and deceit, but he does so at the expense of proper storytelling and pacing. Bong’s intentions are interesting as we will soon see, but as a film it all doesn’t quite work.
The film’s antagonist is a mutant creature that swims in Korea’s Han River. The reason this monster comes into existence is actually based on real events. In 2000 an American military civilian employee named Mr. McFarland was ordered to dispose of formaldehyde by dumping it into the sewer system that led to the Han River despite the objection of a South Korean subordinate. This scene is duplicated in a rather childish manner and actually opens the film.
The mutant creature (is it a fish, tadpole, what?) is where the film obviously deviates from real life. After its first attack along the Han River shore the media and government step in and create a massive scare, but the scare is not specifically dedicated to the monster, instead it is what the monster is “hosting”. The government claims the monster is the host of a terrible and unclassified virus and begins to fumigate the area and begin testing those that were in direct contact. The primary candidate for testing is lead character Park Gang-Du whose daughter Hyun-seo has been captured by the terrifying monster. Gang-Du and his brother (Nam-il), sister (Nam-Joo) and father (Hie-bong) are being held in a hospital until they finally escape, setting off a media storm. The media catches wind that the virus is no longer contained and the public panics.
Some have said that this is an anti-American film, but I think it is more of a 'stop lying to me and leave me the heck alone' film. There is even a jab at the gas guzzling lifestyle during the final moments of the film, which only prove the monster is just one more metaphor (is it the government? is it society? is it both?) in this film that is anything but what it seems on the surface.
The film is billed as a comedic horror and really falls more in line as a political commentary on as many things Bong could think of to throw in the script. (The score alone makes this anything but a horror film as it is almost more operatic at times of concern.) Like I said before, I don’t think this movie is anything special and certainly nothing I would like to watch again, but it was definitely interesting to see the first time and then tool around the Net to see what others thought."
It all sounds interesting to me and I will probably have to check out the original before seeing the American remake.
Check out this neat clip here!
"Maybe three or four years down the line, if 'The Host' [remake] comes out, and there's a cool director who takes it on and makes it a real great film, then I'd be very happy," Bong said in an interview, through a translator. "On the other hand, if it's just crap, I think I'd be happy, too, because then people would be like, 'Oh, yeah, Bong's original was really good.' So, for me, it's a win-win situation. But Universal has a tradition of doing horror and creature films, so I anticipate that they will do a great film."
According to Variety, "Universal Pictures and Gore Verbinski will remake the 2006 Bong Joon-ho-directed Korean thriller 'The Host,' with commercials director Fredrik Bond making his feature helming debut and Mark Poirier ('Smart People') to pen the script.
Story follows a town terrorized by a giant mutant squidlike creature hatched by toxins that flow into a nearby river from a military base. When the creature grabs a little girl, her dysfunctional family must band together to rescue her.
Verbinski will produce with Vertigo's Roy Lee and Doug Davison, along with Paul Brooks.
Bond has directed campaigns for Nike, Adidas and Levi's. He and Verbinski had been looking for a project to do together, and Bond said he embraced the opportunity to mix a larger-than-life monster with a heartfelt family drama."
First of all, how good is the original "The Host?" I have not seen it, so I will have to rely on others who have.
According to Rope of Silicon, "Bong gets his point across in regards to meddling governments, mistrust, lies and deceit, but he does so at the expense of proper storytelling and pacing. Bong’s intentions are interesting as we will soon see, but as a film it all doesn’t quite work.
The film’s antagonist is a mutant creature that swims in Korea’s Han River. The reason this monster comes into existence is actually based on real events. In 2000 an American military civilian employee named Mr. McFarland was ordered to dispose of formaldehyde by dumping it into the sewer system that led to the Han River despite the objection of a South Korean subordinate. This scene is duplicated in a rather childish manner and actually opens the film.
The mutant creature (is it a fish, tadpole, what?) is where the film obviously deviates from real life. After its first attack along the Han River shore the media and government step in and create a massive scare, but the scare is not specifically dedicated to the monster, instead it is what the monster is “hosting”. The government claims the monster is the host of a terrible and unclassified virus and begins to fumigate the area and begin testing those that were in direct contact. The primary candidate for testing is lead character Park Gang-Du whose daughter Hyun-seo has been captured by the terrifying monster. Gang-Du and his brother (Nam-il), sister (Nam-Joo) and father (Hie-bong) are being held in a hospital until they finally escape, setting off a media storm. The media catches wind that the virus is no longer contained and the public panics.
Some have said that this is an anti-American film, but I think it is more of a 'stop lying to me and leave me the heck alone' film. There is even a jab at the gas guzzling lifestyle during the final moments of the film, which only prove the monster is just one more metaphor (is it the government? is it society? is it both?) in this film that is anything but what it seems on the surface.
The film is billed as a comedic horror and really falls more in line as a political commentary on as many things Bong could think of to throw in the script. (The score alone makes this anything but a horror film as it is almost more operatic at times of concern.) Like I said before, I don’t think this movie is anything special and certainly nothing I would like to watch again, but it was definitely interesting to see the first time and then tool around the Net to see what others thought."
It all sounds interesting to me and I will probably have to check out the original before seeing the American remake.
Check out this neat clip here!
Where the Wild Things Are
This movie has been rolling around for the past few years, but with the release of a few stills, my hopes that I will be seeing this movie someday have returned.
"Where the Wild Things Are" is an adaptation of Maurice Sendak's classic children's story, where Max, a disobedient little boy sent to bed without his supper, creates his own world--a forest inhabited by ferocious wild creatures that crown Max as their ruler.
In an interview with Ain't It Cool News, Spike Jonze, the director of "Where the Wild Things Are," spoke about making the movie.
Here is an excerpt from the interview.
Moriarty: I love how you didn’t have to sit around waiting for the Henson guys to get things to work, which is a separate art form, and you were just able to focus on the kid’s performance and not have fifteen tech guys trying to hit a cue at the same time. I think that must be insanity, trying to do that.
Spike Jonze: We were trying to make it as organic as possible, but even then... but the guys in the suits, the actors in the suits were incredible, and they really worked hard. I didn’t want performances of the suits or the animation to be like traditional puppetry or animation where everything’s sort of over-indicated, everything’s like “Wow wow WOW! Hey Max, how you doing!” It’s like they think everything has to be sold.
So we shot the whole movie with the voice actors on a soundstage, and we just shot it like a workshop. It looked like some sort of ‘70s experimental theatre or something like that, because it was just this blank soundstage with shag carpeting, and they were all in their socks so the sound was muted. It was just a really dead soundstage, sound-wise, and they could just act it out. We’d take foam cubes and build little trees or huts or whatever, and then we’d just workshop the scene like I would do with a live-action movie, and just find what the scene is about through blocking and improvising dialogue. And out of that stuff, then... because puppeteering and animation isn’t spontaneous in any way, but I wanted the movie to feel alive and immediate. I knew I could get that with Max, but I wanted the wild things also to have that kind of performance, so by doing that with the actors where everything is spontaneous, the guys in the suits would feed off of that. They would watch the tapes; we’d do playback for them so they’d be acting along to James Gandolfini’s voice in these speakers. And then the guy in the suit would just “feel” what Gandolfini did in his body and his shoulders, so after playback, when he starts to go, “Well... I don’t know, Max,” or whatever the line was, every little head movement would be intentional, because Gandolfini did everything with intention. They’re actors, so they aren’t even really thinking about it. With puppeteering, you have to decide what the intention is and then you have to figure out how to communicate it, because every puppet works differently. So nothing’s immediate or spontaneous about that form.
More news to come! Catch ya' later!
"Where the Wild Things Are" is an adaptation of Maurice Sendak's classic children's story, where Max, a disobedient little boy sent to bed without his supper, creates his own world--a forest inhabited by ferocious wild creatures that crown Max as their ruler.
In an interview with Ain't It Cool News, Spike Jonze, the director of "Where the Wild Things Are," spoke about making the movie.
Here is an excerpt from the interview.
Moriarty: I love how you didn’t have to sit around waiting for the Henson guys to get things to work, which is a separate art form, and you were just able to focus on the kid’s performance and not have fifteen tech guys trying to hit a cue at the same time. I think that must be insanity, trying to do that.
Spike Jonze: We were trying to make it as organic as possible, but even then... but the guys in the suits, the actors in the suits were incredible, and they really worked hard. I didn’t want performances of the suits or the animation to be like traditional puppetry or animation where everything’s sort of over-indicated, everything’s like “Wow wow WOW! Hey Max, how you doing!” It’s like they think everything has to be sold.
So we shot the whole movie with the voice actors on a soundstage, and we just shot it like a workshop. It looked like some sort of ‘70s experimental theatre or something like that, because it was just this blank soundstage with shag carpeting, and they were all in their socks so the sound was muted. It was just a really dead soundstage, sound-wise, and they could just act it out. We’d take foam cubes and build little trees or huts or whatever, and then we’d just workshop the scene like I would do with a live-action movie, and just find what the scene is about through blocking and improvising dialogue. And out of that stuff, then... because puppeteering and animation isn’t spontaneous in any way, but I wanted the movie to feel alive and immediate. I knew I could get that with Max, but I wanted the wild things also to have that kind of performance, so by doing that with the actors where everything is spontaneous, the guys in the suits would feed off of that. They would watch the tapes; we’d do playback for them so they’d be acting along to James Gandolfini’s voice in these speakers. And then the guy in the suit would just “feel” what Gandolfini did in his body and his shoulders, so after playback, when he starts to go, “Well... I don’t know, Max,” or whatever the line was, every little head movement would be intentional, because Gandolfini did everything with intention. They’re actors, so they aren’t even really thinking about it. With puppeteering, you have to decide what the intention is and then you have to figure out how to communicate it, because every puppet works differently. So nothing’s immediate or spontaneous about that form.
More news to come! Catch ya' later!
Watchmen Prequels and Sequels
A videogame called “Watchmen: The End Is Nigh” is going to serve as a prequel to the upcoming film "Watchmen."
According to Rope of Silicon, "The game will serve as a prequel of sorts to the film in which Rorschach and Night Owl do their superhero work cleaning up the streets of 1972. The games are expected to earn a mature (M) rating and will be available for download on PCs, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360.
'Watchmen' co-creator, Alan Moore, has always been against the film adaptation of his acclaimed graphic novel, but since he doesn’t hold the rights to give the thumbs up or down to the go ahead he simply chooses to ignore its existence. One has to wonder what he thinks of a prequel story to his novel being written and then released in video game form no less. Then again, I guess that is nothing compared to what may soon become should the film adaptation become a major hit."
According to an article by the LA Times, "As Fox sees it, Warners infringed on Fox's rights, and 'Watchmen' producer Lawrence Gordon gave Warners rights he didn't possess. Warners says Fox's claim is baseless and, as one of its court filing says, 'opportunistic' -- a last-minute, backdoor attempt to cash in on another studio's potential hit.
In Warners' view, Fox repeatedly declined to exercise any purported rights to become involved in the film during its various incarnations over the years, and in an e-mail even bad-mouthed the script that Warners greenlighted. The 'Watchmen' case dramatizes the complex deal making that surrounds many high-profile projects and underscores how movie studios have grown addicted to comic-book franchises. In an era where 'The Dark Knight' can generate $1 billion in global theatrical revenue, the well-executed superhero story has turned into Hollywood's Holy Grail. It's not just the box-office returns that are so meaningful to these kind of properties. A hit film can also sell truckloads of DVDs, help launch a theme-park ride, or generate millions in television sales. Fox, which has suffered through a demoralizing string of box-office flops this year, could desperately use such a movie. It felt its case against Warners was so strong it had no choice but to take the matter to court.
'They are not just fighting over 'Watchmen,' ' entertainment attorney Mel Avanzado, who is not involved in the litigation, said of the duel between Fox and Warners. 'They are also fighting over sequel rights. Whoever controls the franchise probably controls quite a bit.'
As part of its legal strategy against Warners, Fox is trying to block 'Watchmen's' theatrical release, claiming that it would cause the studio irreparable harm. The case has been scheduled for trial in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles in early January, but Fox and Warners are set to enter a non-binding mediation toward the end of November.
So far, though, the parties have not participated in any settlement talks, evidence that the legal skirmish -- just like the mysterious murders of key characters in 'Watchmen' -- could grow more brutal before it gets better."
More news to come! Catch ya' later!
According to Rope of Silicon, "The game will serve as a prequel of sorts to the film in which Rorschach and Night Owl do their superhero work cleaning up the streets of 1972. The games are expected to earn a mature (M) rating and will be available for download on PCs, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360.
'Watchmen' co-creator, Alan Moore, has always been against the film adaptation of his acclaimed graphic novel, but since he doesn’t hold the rights to give the thumbs up or down to the go ahead he simply chooses to ignore its existence. One has to wonder what he thinks of a prequel story to his novel being written and then released in video game form no less. Then again, I guess that is nothing compared to what may soon become should the film adaptation become a major hit."
According to an article by the LA Times, "As Fox sees it, Warners infringed on Fox's rights, and 'Watchmen' producer Lawrence Gordon gave Warners rights he didn't possess. Warners says Fox's claim is baseless and, as one of its court filing says, 'opportunistic' -- a last-minute, backdoor attempt to cash in on another studio's potential hit.
In Warners' view, Fox repeatedly declined to exercise any purported rights to become involved in the film during its various incarnations over the years, and in an e-mail even bad-mouthed the script that Warners greenlighted. The 'Watchmen' case dramatizes the complex deal making that surrounds many high-profile projects and underscores how movie studios have grown addicted to comic-book franchises. In an era where 'The Dark Knight' can generate $1 billion in global theatrical revenue, the well-executed superhero story has turned into Hollywood's Holy Grail. It's not just the box-office returns that are so meaningful to these kind of properties. A hit film can also sell truckloads of DVDs, help launch a theme-park ride, or generate millions in television sales. Fox, which has suffered through a demoralizing string of box-office flops this year, could desperately use such a movie. It felt its case against Warners was so strong it had no choice but to take the matter to court.
'They are not just fighting over 'Watchmen,' ' entertainment attorney Mel Avanzado, who is not involved in the litigation, said of the duel between Fox and Warners. 'They are also fighting over sequel rights. Whoever controls the franchise probably controls quite a bit.'
As part of its legal strategy against Warners, Fox is trying to block 'Watchmen's' theatrical release, claiming that it would cause the studio irreparable harm. The case has been scheduled for trial in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles in early January, but Fox and Warners are set to enter a non-binding mediation toward the end of November.
So far, though, the parties have not participated in any settlement talks, evidence that the legal skirmish -- just like the mysterious murders of key characters in 'Watchmen' -- could grow more brutal before it gets better."
More news to come! Catch ya' later!
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Meeting Michael Uslan, Batman Producer
I met Michael Ulsan today. Who is he you may ask? I shall tell you.
Michael Ulsan is the world's first professor to teach a class about comic books. This made the news back in the 70's at Indiana University.
Two weeks into his classes he got a phone call.
"Hi, is this Michael Ulsan,' said the voice on the phone. Ulsan replied yes. "This is Stan Lee," continued the voice. Stan Lee wanted to congratulate Ulsan on his job and success for the comic industry. A few hours after that the head of DC comics called and gave Ulsan a job (more like an internship).
Ulsan then helped pen a story for the comic "The Shadow," (which is another comic-to-movie adaptation, "The Shadow") and later got the job to write for Batman.
After that he went to law school and then worked for United Artists and learned about the film industry. He knew what he wanted to do. On Oct. 3, 1979 he bought the rights to Batman, quit his job, and began to start his dream of bringing a dark Batman to the silver screen.
He has produced an amazing list of films including: "Batman," "Batman Returns," "Batman Forever," "Batman and Robin," Constantine," "Batman Begins," "The Dark Knight," and the upcoming "The Spirit."
After his speech I went up to him and shook his hand and got his autograph. I asked him where he got his tie (which was a full on Spider-Man tie) and he asked where I got my shirt (Joker from "The Dark Knight"). I replied, "I bought it at Hot Topic."
He replied, "Stan Lee gave me this tie." My jaw dropped.
I managed to ask him one brief question. What were his thoughts about Marvel building the "Avengers" franchise and about a possible "Justice League" movie being made. He said that DC had to do it right by making solo films of all the characters, just like what Marvel was doing (he loved "Iron Man"), but that Nolan's Batman might not get along with other superheroes (I did mention an interview with Nolan where Nolan thought his Batman vision wouldn't work in a Justice League world).
Another note of interest that Ulsan said was that the idea to take away from "The Dark Knight" is not to make heroes dark, but to let directors be creative and to stay true to the hero. If all heroes end up being dark, serious, and violent, it would be terrible.
It was a momentous night for me....and I shall not forget it anytime soon.
Also he let out a bit of movie news. He said he is partnering with Sam Raimi (of "Spider-Man") and making a new "The Shadow." You heard it here first folks!
Michael Ulsan is the world's first professor to teach a class about comic books. This made the news back in the 70's at Indiana University.
Two weeks into his classes he got a phone call.
"Hi, is this Michael Ulsan,' said the voice on the phone. Ulsan replied yes. "This is Stan Lee," continued the voice. Stan Lee wanted to congratulate Ulsan on his job and success for the comic industry. A few hours after that the head of DC comics called and gave Ulsan a job (more like an internship).
Ulsan then helped pen a story for the comic "The Shadow," (which is another comic-to-movie adaptation, "The Shadow") and later got the job to write for Batman.
After that he went to law school and then worked for United Artists and learned about the film industry. He knew what he wanted to do. On Oct. 3, 1979 he bought the rights to Batman, quit his job, and began to start his dream of bringing a dark Batman to the silver screen.
He has produced an amazing list of films including: "Batman," "Batman Returns," "Batman Forever," "Batman and Robin," Constantine," "Batman Begins," "The Dark Knight," and the upcoming "The Spirit."
After his speech I went up to him and shook his hand and got his autograph. I asked him where he got his tie (which was a full on Spider-Man tie) and he asked where I got my shirt (Joker from "The Dark Knight"). I replied, "I bought it at Hot Topic."
He replied, "Stan Lee gave me this tie." My jaw dropped.
I managed to ask him one brief question. What were his thoughts about Marvel building the "Avengers" franchise and about a possible "Justice League" movie being made. He said that DC had to do it right by making solo films of all the characters, just like what Marvel was doing (he loved "Iron Man"), but that Nolan's Batman might not get along with other superheroes (I did mention an interview with Nolan where Nolan thought his Batman vision wouldn't work in a Justice League world).
Another note of interest that Ulsan said was that the idea to take away from "The Dark Knight" is not to make heroes dark, but to let directors be creative and to stay true to the hero. If all heroes end up being dark, serious, and violent, it would be terrible.
It was a momentous night for me....and I shall not forget it anytime soon.
Also he let out a bit of movie news. He said he is partnering with Sam Raimi (of "Spider-Man") and making a new "The Shadow." You heard it here first folks!
Robotech
According to The Hollywood Reporter, "Alfred Gough and Miles Millar have been drafted to pen 'Robotech,' Warner Bros.' adaptation of the anime classic.Akiva Goldsman and Chuck Roven are producing with Tobey Maguire and Drew Crevello.
'Robotech' was a 1980s cartoon series from Harmony Gold USA and Tatsunoko Prods. It was re-edited and re-dialogued to combine three Japanese anime series to give the producers enough episodes to air as a daily syndicated series.
A sprawling sci-fi epic, 'Robotech' takes place at a time when Earth has developed giant robots from the technology on an alien spacecraft that crashed on a South Pacific isle. Mankind is forced to use the technology to fend off an alien invasion, with the fate of the human race ending up in the hands of two young pilots."
According to MTV News, "Warner Bros snagged the rights in 2007, with Maguire attached as a producer and possibly to star in the lead role."
Both Alfred Gough and Miles Millar have written for the television show "Smallville."
More news to come! Catch ya' later!
Monday, November 17, 2008
Happy Feet 2
According to Latino Review, "The sequel to Australia's Oscar-winning penguin blockbuster 'Happy Feet' will waddle into 'life' at a new digital production facility in Sydney.
NSW Minister of State Development Ian Macdonald revealed on Sunday that Happy Feet 2, a follow-up to the singing penguins smash directed by George Miller, will employ an average of 438 people over three years.
They will include some 230 computer-generated imaging artists."
"This incentive by the NSW government is a significant step. It allows us to make Happy Feet 2 in Sydney and it will be the first of many productions from our new digital studio, Dr D," said George Miller, the director of "Happy Feet" (and who will be returning for the sequel).
"It helps us in our attempts to attract substantial foreign investment which will create hundreds of high-end, highly skilled jobs as well as nurture the careers of many people coming out of our educational institutions who would otherwise have no place to grow their talents."
"Happy Feet" won the award for Best Animated Feature Film of the Year at the 2007 Oscars.
Boondock Saints II
According to The Hollywood Reporter, "Principal photography has started in Toronto on Troy Duffy's sequel to the 2000 indie he helmed and wrote, 'The Boondock Saints.'
Sean Patrick Flanery and Norman Reedus are reprising their roles as the crusading fraternal twins Connor and Murphy MacManus, who seek revenge on the tough Boston underworld. Billy Connolly is also returning as Poppa M.
Chris Brinker and Don Carmody are producing with Lloyd Segan and Rob Fried executive producing."
"We expect this film to be a truly intense, humorous and satisfying film for all those who have looked forward to the sequel for so long," Brinker said.
"Boondock Saints II: All Saint's Day" is set to be released in 2009, but whether it will be straight to DVD or have a theatrical release is unknown at this point.
More news to come! Catch ya' later!
Sean Patrick Flanery and Norman Reedus are reprising their roles as the crusading fraternal twins Connor and Murphy MacManus, who seek revenge on the tough Boston underworld. Billy Connolly is also returning as Poppa M.
Chris Brinker and Don Carmody are producing with Lloyd Segan and Rob Fried executive producing."
"We expect this film to be a truly intense, humorous and satisfying film for all those who have looked forward to the sequel for so long," Brinker said.
"Boondock Saints II: All Saint's Day" is set to be released in 2009, but whether it will be straight to DVD or have a theatrical release is unknown at this point.
More news to come! Catch ya' later!
Some news about this week
Movies coming out this Friday! Plot summaries thanks to IMDB!
Bolt - Bolt (voice of Travolta) is a celebrity dog and the star of a hit TV show where his amazing feats and powers draw big ratings. But when a mail-room mix-up finds him roaming free on the streets of New York City, the wonder dog will have to learn to rely on his actual strengths -- as well as his new friends, an abandoned housecat and a starry-eyed hamster -- in order to find his way back home to his owner and co-star, Penny (voice of Cyrus).
Twilight - In her new town of Forks, Washington, misfit teenager Bella Swan (Stewart) falls for her alluring and mysterious classmate, Edward Cullen (Pattinson). As it turns out, Edward belongs to a lineage of vampires, although he doesn't fit the typical vampire mold. As their passion reaches dizzying heights, can Edward resist his natural urges, and will he be able to defend Bella from his family members who have come for her?
Special - Metermaid Les Franken (Rapaport) has an unexpected reaction to the anti-depressant he's taking as part of a clinical trial; suddenly convinced he's a superhero, he embraces his new powers, dons a homemade costume, and hits the streets to protect the citizens of his city. the corporation behind the pill, fearing bad publicity about their drug, set out to bring down our hero, who in turn hones his abilities to fight off his new arch-nemeses.
Movies coming out on DVD!
The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2
WALL-E
Tropic Thunder
Star Trek Season 3
Charmed Complete Series
Bolt - Bolt (voice of Travolta) is a celebrity dog and the star of a hit TV show where his amazing feats and powers draw big ratings. But when a mail-room mix-up finds him roaming free on the streets of New York City, the wonder dog will have to learn to rely on his actual strengths -- as well as his new friends, an abandoned housecat and a starry-eyed hamster -- in order to find his way back home to his owner and co-star, Penny (voice of Cyrus).
Twilight - In her new town of Forks, Washington, misfit teenager Bella Swan (Stewart) falls for her alluring and mysterious classmate, Edward Cullen (Pattinson). As it turns out, Edward belongs to a lineage of vampires, although he doesn't fit the typical vampire mold. As their passion reaches dizzying heights, can Edward resist his natural urges, and will he be able to defend Bella from his family members who have come for her?
Special - Metermaid Les Franken (Rapaport) has an unexpected reaction to the anti-depressant he's taking as part of a clinical trial; suddenly convinced he's a superhero, he embraces his new powers, dons a homemade costume, and hits the streets to protect the citizens of his city. the corporation behind the pill, fearing bad publicity about their drug, set out to bring down our hero, who in turn hones his abilities to fight off his new arch-nemeses.
Movies coming out on DVD!
The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2
WALL-E
Tropic Thunder
Star Trek Season 3
Charmed Complete Series
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Box Office results for the weekend.
1 Quantum of Solace $70.4 M
2 Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa $36.1 M
3 Role Models $11.7 M
4 High School Musical 3: Senior Year $5.8 M
5 Changeling $4.2 M
6 Zack and Miri Make A Porno $3.2 M
"Quantum of Solace" hit it big this weekend, smashing all previous opening weekend records for other Bond movies.
All the other films, ranging from one week ago to two weeks ago, are still holding strong.
2 Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa $36.1 M
3 Role Models $11.7 M
4 High School Musical 3: Senior Year $5.8 M
5 Changeling $4.2 M
6 Zack and Miri Make A Porno $3.2 M
"Quantum of Solace" hit it big this weekend, smashing all previous opening weekend records for other Bond movies.
All the other films, ranging from one week ago to two weeks ago, are still holding strong.
Cloverfield 2
Matt Reeves, director of "Cloverfield," has been talking about making a sequel to the monster movie hit.
Just weeks after the movie came out, the studio behind "Cloverfield" greenlit a sequel.
According to Screen Rant, "Since the film came out in January there have been quite a few discussions and brainstorming sessions about the sequel. Reeves emphasized the point that wanting a sequel and having a good idea for one are two separate things."
In an interview with MTV, Reeves spoke more on a possibly sequel and what ti might be about.
“There are a couple ideas that have potential but we haven’t quite cracked it yet,” says Reeves who is juggling his orginal screenplay, “The Invisible Woman” and his remake of “Let the Right One In” among his future projects. Trying to pin down just what those “Cloverfield” sequel ideas are though is easier said than done. One thought was to return to the source of the inspiration for the film. “When we were in Japan we thought, wouldn’t it be cool to do it here,” he said.
One things seems certain. Don’t expect a traditional sequel picking up right after the first with the same (still living) characters. Rather the filmmakers behind the hit film have discussed a sequel that “wasn’t necessarily right after that night but had intersections with the original.”
More news to come! Catch ya' later!
Just weeks after the movie came out, the studio behind "Cloverfield" greenlit a sequel.
According to Screen Rant, "Since the film came out in January there have been quite a few discussions and brainstorming sessions about the sequel. Reeves emphasized the point that wanting a sequel and having a good idea for one are two separate things."
In an interview with MTV, Reeves spoke more on a possibly sequel and what ti might be about.
“There are a couple ideas that have potential but we haven’t quite cracked it yet,” says Reeves who is juggling his orginal screenplay, “The Invisible Woman” and his remake of “Let the Right One In” among his future projects. Trying to pin down just what those “Cloverfield” sequel ideas are though is easier said than done. One thought was to return to the source of the inspiration for the film. “When we were in Japan we thought, wouldn’t it be cool to do it here,” he said.
One things seems certain. Don’t expect a traditional sequel picking up right after the first with the same (still living) characters. Rather the filmmakers behind the hit film have discussed a sequel that “wasn’t necessarily right after that night but had intersections with the original.”
More news to come! Catch ya' later!
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Luke Goss on Magdalena
Luke Goss, most recently known as Prince Nuada from "Hellboy II: The Golden Army," spoke to MTV News about his upcoming role in the film "Magdalena.""Magdalena" is about a holy warrior protagonist named Patience, who will be played by Jenna Dewan.
Dewan breaks down the story of "Magdalena" in this interview clip.
"Basically, I had a meeting with Gale [Gale Ann Hurd, producer of the movie], and Gale said, ‘You’re the guy for me,’” Goss said. “You know you’re in good hands with her. She’s wonderful. And she was adamant about bringing in a screenwriter who was going to bring a rich story to it. We’re not going to hold back. We’re going to make it a rich mythology. People realized with Downey [in "Iron Man"] that when you put a story behind a superhero, it’s actually quite irresistible.”
The film will also deal with religious content that is a heavy part of the plot form the comics.
“For me, it’s almost like ‘Da Vinci Code’ with substance, and more action,” he said. “And I don’t think she’s going to shy away from that religious foundation. It’s not a religious movie at all, but she’s not going to shy away from that content.”
Goss said that by the time they start filming — “I was told the first third of next year” — he needs to be pretty fit to play Kristof, Patience’s mentor/trainer. “It’s a two-hander,” he said. “For me, there’s going to be a lot of physicality. So it’s a case of, I’ll get a little bigger, put on 20-25 pounds, get fit and strong, and learn some new techniques.”
Goss also wants to spend time developing his chemistry with Dewan, since their characters’ interaction is a big part of the film. “She gets handed this responsibility,” he said, “and as great as she is, she still needs to evolve, and I’m going to be there for that.”
More interesting clips from Dewan! On her sexy super heroine outfit.
On story lines for possible sequels. "Witchblade" crossover will be a possibility!
"Magdalena" is set to come out sometime in 2010. More news to come! Catch ya' later!
Friday, November 14, 2008
Special Features
Frank Miller breaks down all the women in "The Spirit."
Zack Snyder tells us that "Watchmen" is going to be dark.
Source: MTV Spoilers
Gort decides who lives in the new "The Day the Earth Stood Still" trailer.
Can you feel the darkness in the new "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" trailer?
Jason Statham kicks butt in "Transporter 3." Even his clothes are weapons.
Watch the story of BURN-E,a little robot that had a different adventure during "WALL-E."
Zack Snyder tells us that "Watchmen" is going to be dark.
Source: MTV Spoilers
Gort decides who lives in the new "The Day the Earth Stood Still" trailer.
Can you feel the darkness in the new "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" trailer?
Jason Statham kicks butt in "Transporter 3." Even his clothes are weapons.
Watch the story of BURN-E,a little robot that had a different adventure during "WALL-E."
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