Did everyone enjoy the Cannes results last weekend, as much as I respect the judges opinions I think we can safely say the results this year, as will many of the films presented, will be relevant only to Cannes history and are unlikely to affect the movie going public. If Palme d'Or winner Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives even gets a UK release I will be pleasantly shocked. Moving on to the rest of th news there's been nothing earth shattering but these small stories have got my attention.
One Day
Did you know An Education helmer Lone Scherfig was making a rip off of Same Time Next Year? If so why didn't you tell me, I am quite curious. The premise of two romantic partners who meet one day every year (in this version it's on St Swithuns Day, 15 July) for twenty years is certainly stolen from the 1978 Robert Mulligan film, but I'm interested to see how Lone can update the rather cliched story (the character arcs are so obvious) and what she can do to make it less stagey. The casting certainly looks good with Anne Hathaway and Jim Sturgess in the leading roles. 
St. Swithun, Bishop of Winchester from 852-862, is primarily known for the proverb:
St Swithun's day if thou dost rain
For forty days it will remain
St Swithun's day if thou be fair
For forty days 'twill rain no more
I'm not sure how that will be worked into the plot.
Read on for a Bruce Willis double, a really unlikely Sinatra and more titbits from Paul Thomas Anderson. As well as the latest shifts in UK box office releases.
Kane & Lynch/The Tomb
Bruce Willis (left) is not generally an actor that I wil queue up to see, in fact the last time I saw him in a leading role was 2006's 16 Blocks (I know, I know). But these two films both look like they could be fun and may just bring me back to reappraise his work. Kane & Lynch has been hanging around for some time, adapted from a computer game it sees two death row inmates escape and search for a stolen fortune. Kane (Willis) is a badass mercenary, Lynch (to be played by Jamie Foxx) is a schizophrenic. Doesn't that just sound barmy enough to work?
The Tomb is weirder still with master architect (Willis again) finding himself incarcerated in the inescapable prison he designed. He must find a way out and bring the people responsible for putting him there behind bars. Maybe it's a little too high concept or similar to "Prison Break" for it's own good, but it should be another chance for wisecracking Willis to perform.
Sinatra
Martin Scorsese is thinking of casting Al Pacino as Sinatra and Robert De Niro as Dean Martin in his forthcoming biopic - according to his comments on the Indian press circuit with Shutter Island. My message to Marty. Please don't do that, it's a big big mistake, don't go for names, find someone who can do the role without a load of baggage. Thank you.
Untitled Paul Thomas Anderson project
PT Anderson's new religion movie, which almost certainly isn't about Scientology (in spite of any superficial similarites) has gained a leading lady with Reese Witherspoon eyeing the project. She's a good actress, but she needs direction so her performance my well depend on the type of project this is. If it's an ensemble piece then she do well, if it's going o focus on Philip Seymour Hoffman's fanatic then expect Reese to irritate from the sidelines. We'll see.
I'm short of picture concepts today - so that's Reese in a dress on a red carpet.
Release Date News
Knight & Day - I do believe that Tom Cruise himself is afraid of clashing with World Cup football, how else do you explain the shift in release date of his latest caper until after the competition. Become a rogue agent on 06 August 2010.
The Town - Ben Affleck's last directorial gig was a surprise critical hit, unfortunately he's replaced his incredibly talented brother with his wooden self in this Bank Robber follow-up. Develop a Stockholm complex on 08 October 2010.
The Debt - The English language remake of the anti-Mossad Isreali picture couldn't be better timed, what with the Dubai assassination still big news. We'll just have to see if the marketing team use that. Find someone you thought was dead on 15 October 2010.
Social Network - David Fincher's facebook chronology may have shifted it's release date to clash with the film above, but I doubt there will be many crossover fans. Update your status on 15 October 2010.
Green Hornet - There have been rumours of bad test screenings, studio interference and 3D reshoots, but we'll never know the real truth abouth the delay of this winter blockbuster. Get a martial arts expert as a sidekick on 14 January 2011.
Cheaters - The Vince Vaughn/Ron Howard collaboration may have only just started filming, but they're obviously expecting a quick edit looking at the release date. Catch your best mates girl playing away on 21 January 2011.
Somewhere - Stephen Dorff is set to be wandering dreamily round his hotel reconnecting with his daughter really soon now, why not try to imagine how closely this will resemble Lost in Translation now. Let the world float by on 04 March 2011.
Straw Dogs - I don't really believe this release date, after all Rod Lurie's revenge drama has already had three of them. We'll see how long it takes before this is whisked away. Try to get on with the locals on 28 October 2011.
The Adventures of Tintin: Secret of the Unicorn - It's a new record, a release date in 545 days time. Of course Spielberg's involved so everything we know about film marketing is likely to be wrong. Whoah whoah on 25 November 2011.
Saturday, 29 May 2010
Film News (29/05/10)
Monday, 5 April 2010
Film News (05/04/10)
You would've thought that coming back after a few weeks off would mean there were literally hundreds of news stories to catch up on, however there have been surprisingly few. Perhaps it's just the wrong time of the year (post Oscars, pre summer) or perhaps the studios just aren't funding decent sounding films anymore? I know that right now there are only two films I want to see in each of the summer months, and with the current release dates set I'm currently looking at 34 films by the end of the year (down 8 on 2009). Still the following stories all caught my eye:
Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close
Stephen Daldry has a serious reputation to protect, after all he has three best director nominations from three films - a bit of a record. So when he choses a project you know it's going to be serious and hard hiting. And Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close is certainly hard hitting, based on the 2005 novel by Jonathan Safran Foer the film centres around a nine year old who lost his father in the September 11 attacks and has become obsessed with finding the lock that fits a key his father left him.
This could go either way but with Daldry's steady hand and Eric Roth providing the screenplay I'm fairly confident that it will flirt with pathos but won't drift into smaltz. 
Click on the jump for Swedish remakes, a Leonardo DiCaprio double bill, tragic surfers and a subtly named whodunnit... As well as all the release date changes from my six weeks on tour.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
The first of the Millenium trilogy, the postumous works of Stieg Larsson, has barely opened in cinemas but with a huge following from the books it's no surprise that Hollywood is already working on an American remake. Set to direct the first will be David Fincher. This could be a perfect fit - the gothic sensibilities of the original and the macabre details could mark a return to the rain drenched streets of Se7en. Definitely one to keep your eyes on.
Hoover/Travis McGee
For you Leonardo DiCaprio fans out there it's always pleasing to see him trying new things - I personally believe he's one of the finest actors of his generation. Slowly he's proving himself as a box office draw even in more complex pictures (like last months Shutter Island) and that sort of pulling power will be absolutely necessary for the couple of projects I heard bandied about over the last few months. First up will be a straight biopics of J. Edgar Hoover, the man who created and ran the FBI. Incredibly powerful Hoover's long rumoured prediliction for cross dressing may mean this is a story just crying out to be told.
If the thrills you seek are a little more traditional then Leo's other film, Travis McGee, may be more up your street. It's essentially a knock off of the Bourne films which could mean a built in audience and sequel potential, as well as plenty of excuses to see cool fights and expensive hardware. 
Mavericks
Extreme sports don't lend themselves well to the medium of film. It's not like you have a team of different characters who can work together to beat all the obstacles in their way. Nevertheless a biopic of surfer Jay Moriaty is in the works. Moriaty was a world class surfer, breaking many reords and taking on any challenges, until his untimely death, aged just 23. I'm hoping this will buck the trend.
Murder Mystery
Can you imagine anyone having the balls to call a film Murder Mystery? It seems there are Disney producers who thinks that's a good idea. James Vanderbilt's script follows a Honeymooning American couple who stumble across a body and consequent intrigue in Europe. I'm going to be shouting my guesses right at the screen when that one comes out.
Release Date News
The Ghost - Shifting back a few weeks (presumably because I've already loaded up the trailer) is Roman Polanski's latest venture. Discover a conspiracy involving an ex Prime Minister on 16 April 2010.
Wild Target - It had been due to clash with Rupert Grint's other post-Potter film Cherrybomb about a teenager finding love so this hitman comedy did the decent thing and changed it's date. Learn to be a cold blooded killer on 18 June 2010.
Whatever Works - The last of my top 20 for 2009 (yes really) has finally got a UK release date, oddly Woody Allen's latest has taken nearly a year to cross the Atlantic. Get all angsty on on 25 June 2010.
Wall Street: Money Never SleepsThe Ghost - However advanced the publicity campaign for this 25 year later sequel it wasn't enough to stop it falling back 6 months to rumours of poor test screenings. Find out if greed is good on 24 September 2010.
Next Three Days - Russell Crowe's wife is banged up for a crime she did not commit, and rather than go through the courts he decides to break her out. It's not as simple as it first seems. Try a prison break on 07 January 2011.
True Grit - The Coen brother remake of John Wayne's classic Western will be coming out during the height of the Oscar season - strange as Bridges has just won his statuette so they could spend a few more weeks in post if they wanted. Avenge your fathers murder on 14 January 2011.
I have had my share of disappointments these last few weeks with New York, I Love You losing it's UK release - it's still tentatively looking at an August date but I'm waiting for confirmation. Oh, when will I get to see this movie?
Saturday, 30 January 2010
Film News (30/01/2010)
Sundance has been hogging all the headlines this week with the first reactions and aquisitions flying everywhere you look. You want uncomfortable violence - you got it! - or teenage lesbians - everywhere you look! - or pot smoking extravoganza's - this is Sundance! Away from Utah there have been some interesting stories, and of course it's time to catch up with the shuffling in UK release schedules.
Selma
Lee Daniels is curently riding high with Precious opening this weekend here and should receive a number of high profile Oscar nods on Tuesday morning. So it's no surprise that his next project is picking up some heavy weight casting. The project, Selma, concerns the civil rights movement during the 1960's and Robert De Niro has signed up to play the infamous Alabama Governor George Wallace - one of the biggest obstacles to ending segregation. It should certainly be an involving experience, although I suspect it will also be a tough ride.
Lee with Precious star Gabby Sidibe.
Click on the jump for deranged killers, masked vigilantes, intergalactic romances (two of them) and other affairs of the heart.
Another Year
But first my number 14 in the top 20 most anticipated films for 2010 was Mike Leigh's untitled project with Imelda Staunton and Jim Broadbent. Well, we may still know nothing about it, but it is, possibly, titled. As Another Year. Make of those crytic words what you will.
Avatar
In case you hadn't heard James Cameron's sci-fi epic has just hit an importnat box office milestone. It's only broken the record for international receipts, passing Titanic on Tuesday. Expect it to pass the US domestic record in the next couple of weeks too. Admittedly it isn't close to the biggest box office draw of all time once you factor in ticket price inflation and the 3D premium, but that's still quite an achievement that will take some years to be broken. Or at least until Cameron turns his attention to Avatar 2.
Dream House
Daniel Craig, and family, will be moving into the house belonging to a psychotic murderer sometime in 2011. Luckily his next door neighbour, the newly cast Naomi Watts, will be on hand to offer sound advice and dire warnings. She was in the Funny Games remake so she probably knows what she's talking about.
Passengers
I'm not sure whether this qualifies as an addition to the intelligent sci-fi boom, but Gabriele Muccino has signed on to direct the next Keanu Reeves project. Set on a autopilotted space ship Reeves is awoken from his cryogenics chamber some 70 years early and faced with the terrifying propect of growing old alone wakes up a beautiful - yet to be cast - woman. (I's go ape if I we her). The idea has some promise so I'll wait to see how the script balances out the potential pitfalls. i.e. being incredibly boring, or having a weird monster.
The Shadow
Sam Raimi hasn't announced what his first non Spider-Man movie will be now he's been ousted from the franchise, but that won't stop the rumours from drifting around the internet. This week he's said to be considered the big screen adaptation of pulp hero The Shadow. There has been a Shadow movie before (with Alec Baldwin!) but luckily no-one will be comparing any work Raimi does with that, although the original radio series was narrated by Orson Welles so perhaps there is a big challenge to face.
Take This Waltz
Essentially a simple love triangle drama with a married woman having an affair with the man across the street the script has still managed a high profile place on 2009's Black List. No surprise then to see it's been picked up, and with Sarah Away From Her Polley at the helm. Two sides of the triangle have been cast - Seth Rogen and Michelle Williams - and a big name announcement for the third is expected soon.
Release Date News
The Lovely Bones - Causing a disappointting mess in my Tuesday trailer continuity was the sudden shift of Peter Jackson's latest epic - presumably to allow the underwhelming US response to be out of our heads when it opens. Take revenge against your killer on 19 February 2010.
Ondine - Colin Farrell takes in the leading (human) role in this drama about a mermaid caught in a fisherman's net. Don't let this be the one that got away on 05 March 2010.
Shutter Island - Moving back for The Lovely Bones is Martin Scorsese's return to pulp B-movies. Leo DiCaprio and Mark Ruffalo will investiagte the mysterious prisoners in the titular asylum. Don't be patient 67 on 12 March 2010.
Wild Target - It's a comedy. Starring Rupert Grint from Harry Potter as an apprentice hitman with Emily Blunt as his rival. Why am I even vaguely interested? Because Bill Nighy is training him. Inspired. Take a potshot on 09 April 2010.
New York, I Love You - I've waited a long time to see the sequel to Paris, Je T'aime, in fact it was one of the first films I showed a trailer for back in September 2008. I hear it isn't quite as good - but we don't get enough collections of shorts in British Cinemas so I'm right there. Fall in love with your favourite city on 16 April 2009.
Inception - The second schedule change for Leo sees this trippy Christopher Nolan picture move to a mid summer release, probably down to high expectations for it's box office potential. Steal from your dreams on 16 July 2010.
Knight and Day - But it will face competition from the Tom Cruise/Cameron Diaz action comedy opening on the same day. I wonder which of these will lose their nerve... Have your date go very wrong on 16 July 2010.
Eagle of the Ninth - I know there is probably a great deal of pathos and spectacle to be had in the adaptation of Rosemary Sutcliffe's seminal Roman Legion novel, but it's got Channing Tatum in it so I guess it will be sold on the torso. Find your lost Legion on 10 September 2010.
Thor - Occupying the space left by Spider-Man 4 was an easy decision for Marvel's Norse superhero. Should give it ample opportunity to take an early hold of next year Box Office championship. By Odin's Staff I'll see this on 06 May 2011.
Spider-Man 4 wasn't the only film to disappear from the schedules during the last month. Rod Lurie's original source adaptation of Straw Dogs has also lost it's UK release - that's the third time so it's getting to be so much of a habit I doubt I'll believe the next date.
Some gratuitous shots of Channing Tatum in Eagle of the Ninth.
Saturday, 31 October 2009
Film News (31/10/2009)
I may have mentioned that I've been on tour and not been able to get to a computer recently. Or at least not enough to be able to read up on the news and report back. I am therefore writing this in the middle of half term with over three pages of notes regarding news stories that have come and gone over the last month and a half. I'm binning all updates on stories we've already reported on and just looking at the completely original incidents. With no further ado let's get on...
Gucci Biopic
There are few families from the 20th century which seem to be ripped out of a soap opera more than the fashion giants Gucci. There have been boardroom fist fights, celebrity hangers on, tax evasion claims and even murder. It's such a mad story it's going to need a barmy cast to bring it off... Anjelina Jolie as Patrizia Reggiano and Leonardo DiCaprio as her superflous husband Maurizio Gucci. Never mind the Dallas picture bring on the Gucci's.
Shoes are apparently not related to this post in any way...
American Rust
Described as a modern retelling of the underclass stories written by John Steinbeck in the pre-war years American Rust concerns two agricultural workers who leave their home town to find better jobs only to be caught in a maelstrom of violence and misunderstanding. Walter Salles has signed on to direct.
The Fly
I won't link to the 1986 version of the classic sci-fi about a scientist finding his DNA altered irreperably. Although perhaps I should because although there have rumours about a remake David Cronenberg has publicly stated that he will be behind the camera for any remakes. With advances in technology over the last 25 years the body horror elements will almost certainly be digusting beyond belief.
It's a Kind of Funny Story
Apparently it's a well-loved young adult story by Ned Vizzini about a suicidal teenager checking into an adult mental health facility. I don't know if the book is any good but I love the concept, and with Viola Davis signing up for a pivotal role you can count me in.
Melancholia
Lars von Trier is fed up with making deep arthouse pictures that divide audiences, so he's decided to make a blockbuster - a sci-fi disaster movie no less. Early plot details indicate another planet collides with the Earth. Don't expect a happy ending.
My Fair Lady
I love the original My Fair Lady, as a kid I was sat in front of it on almost every visit to my Grandparents. As such it is with trepidation that I approach the remake with Keira Knightly. The good news is that Emma Thompson is working on a script, which could make it very humourous. In unlikely casting Daniel Craig is being mooted for Henry Higgins.
Red Riding
To recap David Pearce wrote a quadrilogy of novels about corruption in the Yorkshire police forces during the late 70's and early 80's. Looking at the investigation into some teenagers murdered against the rise and fall of the trade unions. This was made into a TV miniseries, which was released in the states as 3 films - can anyone verify this, please? It looks like Columbia and Scott Free entertainment have picked it up to create one big movie. Could be a horrible mess.
Robert Capa Biopic
Michael Mann will be returning to the biopic arena for his next film, by looking at the famed photographer Robert Capa. The film wil focus on his early romances during the Spanish Civil War, so expect plenty of opportunity for Mann's sound editors to shine.
Securitas Robbery picture
Here in the UK we're just coming to the end of reports about the Tonbridge Securitas robbery. In essence it's a common story where the robbers kidnap the managers family and use that a leverage to get into the bank or, in this case depot. Only this time it's the largest haul in a robbery of all time with over 50m sterling taken. To make the story even more bizarre the ring leaders were mostly high profile cage fighters. It hasn't taken long for the studios to take an interest and I'm sure they're be parts for Danny Dyer in it.
X-Movies
The future of the X-Men franchise rumbles on. Like many of you I refused to cough up a fiver to see Wolverine, however lots of people did so expect a second installement of that offshoot as well as individual films for Magneto and Deadpool. Pruducer Lauren Schuler-Donner has also blurted out that we're likely to see an X-Men early years movie, like a mutant One Tree Hill. Can't wait? Personally I think the whole X franchise may have had it's day but we'll see. At what point do falling returns mean you stop production...
Box Office News
Release Date News
Taking Woodstock - Making November slightly easier to manage Ang Lee's 1960s set homocomedy has been moved back a week. Trip out with the flower generation on 13 November 2009.
The Girlfriend Experience - Steven Soderbergh's lo-fi experiment about the escort industry has slipped back another week into December. You can see the trailer this week. Pay over the odds on 04 December 2009.
The Boys are Back - Clive Owen's Oscar bid, based on Simon Carr's true story will still be showing in January next year but it is now a dirrent week. Learn to say yes on 22 January 2010.
Dear John - If the idea of watching a Nicolas Saprks novel adapted by Lasse Hallstrom makes you gag then you should seriously consider taking May as holiday. On the other hand we see an awful lot of Channing Tatum in the trailer. Write a love letter to Channing on 07 May 2010.
The Green Hornet - I'm hoping this is the last time Michel Gondry's comic book tome will be shifted back as the talent involved really intrigues me. Crime fight using a mysterious identity on 31 December 2010.
Untitled James L. Brooks Movie - It may be called How do you Know, it might not, but Brooks' return to the silver screen with Reese Witherspoon and lucky charm Jack Nicholson has chosen a prime date for the 2010 Oscar season. Have two men fight over you on 14 January 2011.
Straw Dogs - Two months ago I was concerned that the release date for Rod Lurie's retelling of the classic revenge thriller had disappeared into the ether, well it's back. Execute your wife's rapists on 11 March 2011.
Rango - It's not often I get interested in animated movies, however this reunites the Pirates trilogy director Gore Verbinski with star Johnny Depp. Plus it's about dogs. Fetch a bone on 08 April 2011.
Town Creek - They shifted it back further and further until ti completed disappeared. I can't say I'm sorry that I probably won't see the latest film from Joel Schumacher, but I'll keep an eye out in case it makes a limited release before it's inevitable appearance in DVD bargain bins.
Box Office Report
August and September both minor shocks in the top of the box office statistics, with a horror sequel conquering August and a South African actioners the champ in September. Although with the general lack of quality around in the late summer perhaps these two were positioned well.
August
1. The Final Destination
2. The Proposal
3. Inglorious Basterds
4. The Time Traveler's Wife
5. Aliens in the Attic
September
1. District 9
2. Fame
3. Cloudy with a chance of Meatballs
4. (500) Days of Summer
5. Surrogates
I thought I'd end this post with a picture of a prawn. Well done for persevering.
Saturday, 29 August 2009
Film News (29/08/2009)
I'm pretty ambivalent about most of the stories this week, we either already knew about it, or it's just another cast member in what is already shaping to be a fantastic film or I suspect the film will be ropey anyway. But here goes with the news.
The Town
Do you think Ben Affleck looks anything like Chris Cooper? Be honest...
No, I can't see it either.
That isn't stopping Ben from chasing Chris for his bank robbers in Boston movie, with a view Him playing the actor-directors Dad. It doesn't really matter because whenever you put Cooper in a film it automatically improves by 15%.
Pirate Latitudes
It was obviously terrible personal news to Michale Crichton's family and friends when he lost his fight to cancer last year. However let's not over state his achievements in film. Most of the work he did was pretty risable. It's therefore with mixed feelings that we hear his last published novel - Pirate Latitudes - about a daring raid on a Spanish Galleon is due to be adapted by Dreamworks. Saying that at least it's not full of dodgy technobabble so perhaps it may just work.
Restless
Bryce Dallas Howard may have a somewhat spotty acting career - not her fault she's usually very good only in dreadful films - but if she ever decided to become an agent for writers she'd probably make a fortune. Earlier this year we heard she showed her dad the Originals, written by a friend, and now Ron going to produce. She's only gone and down it again - this time Restless has been passed to good friend Gus van Sant to direct. I wonder if i should send her my great unfilmed script?
There be Dragons
It's not strictly speaking news - the camera's have been whirling for Roland Joffe's Sapnish Civil war picture for over a month - but the papers got hold of some background this week and there have been questions aout the objectivity of the piece. You see it's about Josemaria Escriva de Balaguer, founder of the powerful Catholic sect Opus Dei, and it's funded by Opus Dei. Will the film therefore be prepared to divulge the more controversial elements of the group, or Josemaria's pro-Franco statements? Or will it be a whitewashed recruitment video. Odds on if Opus Dei spend too much time meddling with historical fact it will go the way of other religion funded films like Inchon and Battlefield Earth, so I guess it won't matter either way.
Wall Street 2: Money Never Sleeps
Susan Sarandon has been drafted in to play Shia LaBeouf's mum. I wonder what her character's stance on corporate greed will be? Perhaps it will be as surprising, and require as much "acting" as Michael Sheen had to do in the original.
Box Office News
Release Date News
Creek - Delaying my horrible dilemma with the trailers, look back at Tuesday's post for an explanation, Joel Schumacher's Nazi-Occult experiment film has fallen back by nearly a month. Still looks dreadful. Search for your brother's abducters on 09 October 2009.
The Girlfriend Experience - The low key look at high class protitution has been put back back one week, I guess so there aren't 2 Soderbergh films opening on the same day. Personally I'd still be interested in these as a double bill. Blow your rent on 27 November 2009.
The Boys are Back - It's a very fine line between quality drama and smaltz, especially where cancer and becoming a single parent fire the plot. Still the trailer doesn't lay it on too much so maybe this is one to watch. Let Clive Owen be your daddy on 15 January 2010.
Up in the Air - The internet buzz for George Clooney's satirical turn in this black comedy about corporate practices has been pretty loud, with may pundits suggesting the quality here may be the main factor in shunting Shutter Island back into 2010. Notch up some frequet flyer miles on 15 January 2010.
Brothers - US remake of Susanne Bier's melodrama about Men returning from war may have some powerhouse performances from Natalie Portman, Jake Gyllenhaal and, especially, Tobey Maguire. If Maguire has to deal with half the trauma that Ulrich Thomsen faced in the original then he'd batter start clearing space for that Oscar. Romance your in lwas on 22 January 2010.
Shutter Island - Following the announcement of a 5 month delay in the States last week it was only a matter of time before Shutter Island was also pushed back internationally. Paramount's excuse is to reduce costs by opening it in the new year (where at least all it's revenue will come in the right fiscal period). Why is accountancy still boring when related to films? Go mad for Leo on 19 February 2010.
Wall Street 2: Money Never Sleeps - Forget the clunky title, Stone's follow up to the classic tale of 80's greed has amassed an impressive cast (see above) and in the dark days of the current recession may show a much needed warning of how society is developing. Find out whether greed is good on 23 April 2010.
Wichita - That's might not be the name it finishes up with, I just hate using untitled ... Cameron Diaz and Tom Cruise go on a date, so far so standard rom-com, but when part of his day job as a secret service agent interrupts them she's coming along for the ride. I hope Cruise plays it deadly seriously and Diaz is allowed to be funny. Get airlifted into the multiplex on 02 July 2010.
Straw Dogs - It's not all good news this month. The remake (which is actually going to be closer to the source material) has lost it's UK release. It's not huge surprise considering it's not opening in the States until 2011, but for now no-one has any idea how long we're going to wait for it.
Box Office Report
July was the second month in a row with the top film being a no-brainer. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is currently at the top of the chart this year, the same position as the Goblet of Fire and Order of the Pheonix. It still has a way to go to hit the grosses of the previous chapters though which may mean bad news for the two-parter final chapter. Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs is also having a fantastic run, outpacing Transformers and Slumdog. Gay fashionistas, CIA Guinea Pigs and American Gangsters round our July's top 5. The last one of which I actually saw in the cinema - I'm suddenly almost with the zeitgeist.
1. Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince
2. Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs
3. Bruno
4. G-Force
5. Public Enemies
Michael Gambon wonders what he's going to do now...
Saturday, 25 July 2009
Film News (25/07/09)
The world is going crazy, there's so much news and previews it's enough to make your head spin. That's right it's Comic-Con, long since evolved from the origins of San Diego comic book geeks to packing in the screaming Twilight geeks. Whether it works as somewhere to showcase footage or to pump the audiences is another question, but whilst the stars and studios continue to swarm there the news will eventually bubble out. And for the non-Comic-Con news there's an interesting recurring theme of indecision but first:
Batman 3, or is it 7, or 8?
It's no surprise that after the astonishing success of The Dark Knight that a sequel would be made, although the proposed direction of Nolan's new/old trilogy may well have been massively altered by the untimely death of Joker Heath Ledger. However Gary Oldman (Commissioner Gordon) has let it slip - and I'll let you believe it wasn't planned if you want to - that filming starts next spring for a 2011 release. I personally think that 2011 is already a bit crowded with Spider-Man 4, Green Lantern and Thor but I expect Warner Bros know what their doing.
Cosmopolis
In our first indecisive director news David Cronenberg is developing Don DeLillo's novel about a multi-millionaire who starts hemorrhaging cash during a stock market rash and must dash across Manhattan to stop it. Whether this will be closer to Wall Street or Falling Down remains to be seen. Already this year Cronenberg has talked about The Matarese Circle with Denzel Washington and Tom Cruise, as well as a Eastern Promises sequel, so goodness knows which of the projects he'll run with first.
The Green Hornet
Stephen Chow has finally dropped out of The Green Hornet completely, leaving a Cato sized hole in the cast of this 2010 comic book adaptation. They're still planning on lensing later in the summer, and have even confirmed Nic Cage as the bad guy and Cameron Diaz as a love interest so expect a new martial-arts master to be installed soon.
Master and Commander 2
Master and Commader: Far Side of the World was a superb, film. Rightly selected by the Academy for a best picture nod, how it didn't get some notice for Russel Crowe is beyond me. After umming and ahhing for some time Crowe is interesting in getting back to the high seas, with a script nearing completeion. Let's hope that the notoriously picky Peter Weir, who directed the original and has already stated he thinks a sequel is unlikely, can be persuaded to helm (ho ho) it.
Red
Morgan Freeman has joined Bruce Willis in the comic book adaptation Red. Willis plays a black ops agent who returns to take on a high tech killer. Whether Freeman will be a collegue, a scheming politico or the killer himself remains to be seen.
Temeraire
Peter Jackson has been waxing lyrical about a number of projects he has involvement in at Comic-Con, but aside from Tintin, Lovely Bones and District 9 he had a brief synopsis about what is likely to be his next film to direct. It's set during the Napoleonic Wars, chronicling the bizzarely over-looked (cinematically) period in European history. Oh, and there will be dragons. I don't know whether to be completely psyched or shocked in disbelief.
Three Little Words
James Mangold has another project that means a lot to him, so much so that he wants to direct. It's not Wichita, or his Legal thriller, or Juliet, or Cyclops, but a totally new project based on one of these child abuse biographies that are clogging up book shops. By all means try holding your breath until James picks another film he wants to work on. It won't be that long.
Warcraft
The film adapataion of the popular World of Warcraft computer game has moved one step closer by appointing Sam Raimi as director. It's a complex internet community roleplay adventure so how that will translate into a three act structure is a mystery. Could be beautiful to look at, could be atrocious to watch!
Untitled Quentin Tarantino Western
Tarantino is another director who likes to keep ua all guessing what his next picture will be - after all Inglorious Basterds was first mooted some ten years ago. So at the UK premier of Basterds he tipped that his next picture will be a Western. I personally feel that its the sort of thing that Quentin could do very well if he tries to avoid all his stylistic twitches, after all what was Reservoir Dogs but a 90 minute Mexican stand off, and Kill Bill borrowed heavily from Western sensibilities. 
Box Office News
Release Date News
The Imaginarium of Dr Parnassus - Falling back a week is Terry Gilliam's latest starring Johnny Depp, Jude Law, Colin Farrell and Heath Ledger as different versions of Heath Ledger. Artistically this looks like pure Gilliam, but it's fascinating to try to estimate how it will do financially. Make a deal with the devil on 16 October 2009.
Taking Woodstock - The Woodstock film, which only includes Woodstock as a backdrop to one families development in the late 60's, has also shifted back a week into the incredibly crowded November. Honestly - you won't be able to turn around for decent films in November. Grow your hair and put some flowers in it on 6 November 2009.
A Serious Man - The Coen Brothers have been keeping their latest film carefully under wraps with no shots or trailers yet. It's a dark comedy so it's hard to know which of their eclectic back catalogue to except it will emanate, especially as there doesn't seem to be an excessive body count this time round. Sleep on your brother-in-laws sofa on 20 November 2009.
Invictus - Whether this is a complete Nelson Mandela biopic, or whether it solely focuses on the Rugby World Cup, you can guarantee that Clint and Morgan will be getting Oscar nods for their efforts. Catch an odd-shaped ball on 05 February 2010.
Valentine's Day - In the least surprising release date news of the year it's been announced that the mishmash of intertwining love stories set around Valentines will open around Valentines. Smooch on the back row on 12 February 2009.
Alice in Wonderland - The teaser trailer came out this week, complete with angry red queen, soporific white queen, scary Cheshire Cat grin and what is set to be an immensely quotable "Alice! You're terribly late, you know. Naughty." from Depp's Mad Hatter. Go through the looking glass on 05 March 2010.
The Green Hornet - It seems impossible that this light comic adaptation will be finished in less than a year, considering the casting news above, but the gods of release dates are spoken. Have your sidekick do a kung fu chop on 23 July 2010.
Inception - Christopher Nolan is floating on a tide of good will right now following the monster returns for The Dark Knight, whether the tills will ring as much for a original property remains to be seen. Escape the barriers of your mind on 13 August 2010.
The Last Airbender - I don't think putting this against Inception is a good idea (even if there's is little crossover appeal), so expect another shift later in the year. For now try to control the elements on 13 August 2010.
Box Office Report
There's no surprise that Transformers has confidently taken the top spot over the June openers, as predicted right here (no points for that I know). It's bounded straight up to the second highest grossing film in the UK this year; although a certain boy wizard will be overtaking it before it surpasses Slumdog Millionaire. The rest of the top five are a mixed bag with a couple of comedies, an underwhelming Terminator film and a heartwarming tale about terminal cancer. We have very odd tastes here in the UK. Naturally I neither saw, nor recommended any of these films.
1. Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen
2. The Hangover
3. Terminator Salvation: The Future Begins
4. My Sister's Keeper
5. Year One
Saturday, 27 June 2009
Film News (27/06/09)
Slow week for news, unless you count the annoucement that there will be 10 best picture nominees next year. Yes 10. Will the quality of films overall get better as a result? Probably not. Maybe we'll see some smaller releases get into the big picture race or maybe it'll be a triumph for the MOR pictures, but let's just wait and see.
Dark Shadows
Dark shadows was a pulpy camp horror TV series from the 60's with a soap opera type family beset by demons, zombies and parallel universes. I don't know about you, but this seems a perfect fit for film duo Tim Burton and Johnny Depp, and would you believe it Depp been spilling the gossip to the press during the Public Enemies junkets.
Based on the picture above do you think they had a costume designer, or did they just grab whatever was lying around in the studio?
Fahrenheit 451
Frank Darabont is still trying to remake Truffant's anti-facist film about book burning. In interviews this week he's been saying he's close to signing on a big name in the Oskar Werner role. Can't wait to see how Darabont builds his dystopian futurescape.
Social Network
Yes, I'm interested in a facebook movie. Its' been that slow a week. Of course the reason it's here is the somewhat bizarre news that David Fincher will be directing the Mark Zuckenburg story. For thse of you not in the know Zuckenburg was the founder of Facebook, who has built up this massive world changing empire, whilst battling off a score of legal actions over the rights to the site.
Kevin Spacey is producing, so could that mean a return to exciting roles for him? Could be interesting if he does go for it.
Box Office News
Release Date News
Antichrist - Lars Von Trier incendiary horror film, which we saw the trailer for on Tuesday, is due to be released fully uncut in the UK in less than a month. Better get the letters to the Daily Mail ready to send. It opens on 24 July 2009.
The Informant - I had the trailer for this multi-strand US imigration tome a few weeks ago, only to hear the release date has shunted back a couple of weeks, nothing serious though. Now out on 31 July 2009.
Creek - Horror starring the one that isn't Dominic Purcell from "Prison Break". It's all about Nazi experiments and underground cults, blah blah. Coming on 18 September 2009.
The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus - Heath Ledger's final film, with alternative versions of himself played by Johnny Depp, Jude Law and Colin Farrell. Sure to be fascinating, if abstract Gilliam piece. See it from 09 October 2009.
Bright Star - Jane Campion's Keats biopic, focusing on the chaste love affair with next door neighbour Fanny Brawne have a prime autumn release date. Described as a return to form, I'm not sure when Campions films haven't been on top form. Opens on 06 November 2009.
Girlfriend Experience - You can stream it from the internet now, but to truly experience watching Soderbergh's latest with someone you f**k why not visit a cinema on 20 November 2009.
The Informant - Bizarrely moved to the same release date is Soderbergh's other 2009 film about a pharmaceuticals whistle blower. Should make an interesting double at some arty-cinemas. Now out on 20 November 2009.
Chronicles of Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn Treader - I've said it before and I'l say it again, Dawn Treader is by far the best of the Narnia novels, hence my vague excitement at the film. Dragons, sea serpents, hurricane winds, it has it all on 10 December 2010.
Box Office Report
In May the blockbuster season started with relish, and predictably two of the top 5 releases were advertised to within an inch of their lives and the other three are all aimed at the kids and families market. Star Trek is confidently leading the frame with an extra £2m more than the Night at the Museum sequel. I have at least seen one of these this month, but none were recommended as film of the week.
1. Star Trek
2. Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian
3. Angels & Demons
4. Hannah Montana: The Movie
5. Coraline
Saturday, 30 May 2009
Film News (30/05/09)
We have had slow news weeks before but this one really takes the biscuit. And although it looks like Stephen Daldry's The Hellfire Club and the Mad Max 4 movie are one step closer to being made on IMBD, they shall be ignored as there has been no press release or anything.
Wichita
After months of speculation from Tom Cruise and James Mangold about what their collective next films would be it seems they have decided to work with each other on the spy romance, Wichita. Also starring Cameron Diaz, Cruise will play an international spy who keps bumping into Diaz (presumably on his weekends off).
Whether this means we won't be seeing Juliet, The Materese Circle or Mangold's life assurance drama remains to be seen, although it would be shame if all these projects were shelved, or postponed indefinitely.
And really that was all the news I had.
Box Office News
Release Date News
Frozen River - Minor change in the release date for Melissa Leo's oscar nommed role smuggling illegal immigrants into the US. Back a week to 17 July 2009 when it will open opposite
Crossing Over - which is another tale about illegal immigration, although this time it's more in the Crash/Traffic mode of multi storylines which all converge. Ray Liotta and Harrison Ford will be sleazy and stoic respectively on 17 July.
The Soloist - it's had a middling review and box office success Stateside, so they've shifted Joe Wright's true life story of schizophrenic cellist (Jami Foxx). Now out on 25 September 2009.
Where the Wild Things Are - Last month I was really excited because the release date for this children's classic adaptation had moved forward, so naturally it's bounced back to the original date of 11 December 2009.
Dear John - Are you fed up of watching films that might be good? Well worry no more. Lasse Hallstrom directs, from a novel by Nicolas Sparks, and starring Amanda Seyfried and Channing Tatum. Expect some serious attempts to pull your heartstrings on 5 February 2010.
Alice in Wonderland - Tim Burton's all star retelling of Lewis Carroll's nonsense novel shifts a week, just to confuse us. I'm surprise it won't be opening on a Tuesday and only playing backwards. See it on 12 March 2010.
Finally I won't be reporting a release date for the fascinating typtrich Tokyo!, even though it's done reasonably well in the US ($341k so far) and been massive in France ($513k), as it opened directly to DVD this week. If I get a chance to see it I'll let you all know what I think.
Box Office Report
The UK box office continues to be as predictable as ever (on animation, one Zac Efron, a Rom-Com and 2 big effects/testosterone heavy hits - although no puppies in April were good enough), including the fact that I correctly identified the top film for April, although perhaps even more predicatable I haven't actually seen any of the films in the top 5. By the way, Wolverine is a tough one to put in, as it opened on the Wednesday 29 April or the weekend starting of 1 May. I have included it here as I'd rather it ame second than potentially beating Star Trek during next months face off (sneaky, eh?).
1. Monsters vs. Aliens
2. X-Men Origins: Wolverine
3. Fast & Furious
4. 17 Again
5. The Boat that Rocked
Saturday, 2 May 2009
Film News (02/05/09 - and previous week)
Bumper news report this week, as I wasn't able to catch up last week. There's also box office news and the Cannes line-up. So lets not mess around any more and just dive straight in:
Wall Street 2
The most shocking story of the last couple of weeks must be the resurrection of long-mooted sequel to Wall Street, Oliver Stone's film about the brutal power players of the eponymous financial district. Back in the Reagan Boom years Michael Douglas's Gordon Gekko was cock-of-the-wall, tossing aside the rule books and the needs of the common workers in order to make money. Of course in the end protege Charlie Sheen squeals on his nefarious activities and we can only assume Gekko gets his just deserts. Nearly 25 years later, with the money markets in freefall it will be interesting to see how Gekko moved on. Of course the issue with the original is even though Gekko is clearly a villian he was such a strongly written character the public, especially the traders and wheeler dealers he was parodying, felt inspired by his example.
Just read through the Greed is good speech, and tell me you don't want to clap at the sheer balls of it:
"The point is, ladies and gentleman, that greed, for lack of a better word, is good. Greed is right, greed works. Greed clarifies, cuts through, and captures the essence of the evolutionary spirit. Greed, in all of its forms; greed for life, for money, for love, knowledge has marked the upward surge of mankind. And greed, you mark my words, will not only save Teldar Paper, but that other malfunctioning corporation called the USA."
The End of Eternity
Kevin MacDonald is obviously an ambitious man. State of Play is just out, Eagle of the Ninth is in development and he's also signed on to direct an adaptation of Isaac Asimov's sci-fi classic. The plot concerns a race of beings (Eternity) who exist outside normal rules of time and space. Only one of them falls in love with a human causing their destruction. Sounds cheery, or like an extended episode of Star Trek. We'll see.
Inception
Unsurprisingly Michael Caine has joined Nolan's sci-fi for next year. This marks the 4th film in a row they've worked on together. Also joining the cast is Joseph Gordon-Levitt who continues to build an impressive CV.
The Lone Ranger
More details of the Lone Ranger movie are coming out, based on the wildly popular TV series from the 40s, which was in turn based on the pre-war radio serial. The film, will be an origins story, of sorts. As our hero (rumoured to be George Clooney) is ambushed with his troop of Texas Rangers, rescued and nursed by Native American Tonto (Johnny Depp) they then seek vengence. I'm either way of this adaptation - I'm not sure we need an origin story and whilst I love Depp as much as the next man I'd like to think there are some actors with Native American roots who could do the part just as well. I'll be keeping a close eye on details though.
Passing Strange
PBS have picked up Spike Lee's filmed version of the hit stage musical "Passing Strange". Early indications are that they'll aim to release it in cinemas. Filming stage productions is always a risky business, you act in a different way and static cameras can feel awfully dull. Nevertheless the story of a middle class blak man from the US who goes all "street" when he goes to Europe may be enough to keep the interest.
Red/Scarpa
Bruce Willis is having a hard time selecting his next project. Among the options are the biopic of Mafia mole Gregory Scarpa Sr. (left, looking much like Bruce...) and Red, a graphic novel adapatation about a former black ops (what is that?) soldier who is targetted by an assassin. We all know that in either film Bruce will play Bruce Willis the action star, but that's always good fun.
Straw Dogs
For years it was just a rumour, and then it was a release date, but now it seems the Straw Dogs remake is picking up steam with James Marsden picked up for the lead and a relocation of the action back to the US. This is a good move; over reverentially sticking to the original will have caused unnecessary comparisons, and no-one could honestly compare Marsden to Dustin Hoffman.
Untitled Mike Leigh Film
Focus features have signed a deal funding Mike Leigh's next project with Film4 and the UK Film Council. No plot or title yet, although I very much doubt it has a plot at this early stage knowing how Leigh works. We do know that Jim Broadbent and Imelda Staunton are filling up the cast list.
Jack Cardiff
Our thoughts are with the family of Jack Cardiff, the incredibly talented cinematographer who passed away on 22 April aged 94. His greatest work was with Powell and Pressburger so please spend some time this month to reaquaint yourself with one of his highlights. I'm off to see Black Narcissus right now.
Cannes Film Festival
The main lineup for Cannes has been annouced and includes such films as Antichrist, Bright Star, Broken Embraces, Inglorious Basterds and Taking Woodstock in competition. That's 5 established arthouse favourites (von Trier, Campion, Almodovar, Tarantino and Lee). Now I want to see all these films too, but surely a film festival with as much influence as Cannes should be mixing it up a little. The vast majority of the films in competition are from recognisable auteurs, often with previous invitations to the Croisette. I'll do a more thorough Cannes preview just before it opens on 13 May.
Box Office News
Release Date News
Everlasting Moments - I've already let this particular cat out of the bag with the trailers but Jan Troell's film about a photographer atthe turn of the 20th century has a new release date of 22 May 2009.
Where the Wild Things Are - Over the last month or so the Where the Wild Things are trailer and posters have been whetting my appetite for the film, and now they've moved the release date forward a month, so we only have to wait until 23 October 2009.
Salt - Also moving the release date, this time by only a week, is Anjelina Jolie's spy thriller Salt. I say spy thirller, the set pictures released so far sem mor like a wig catalogue. See it on 20 August 2010.
Morning Glory - Now the cast for Roger Michell's anchors at war comedy is completed it's been given a release of 10 September 2010. (It's OK the US release is in July so it's not looking like their throwing it in the September graveyard already.)
Box Office Report
The top five from March really has no surprises at all. Of course we should never underestimate the British public's love for dogs, hence Marley & Me annihilating the competition at the top. It's followed by two action hits (snark snark) a breakout comedy and a period drama. Perhaps the Young Victoria may appear to be the odd one out, but period always has a following over here and the advertising we pretty thorough. Once again I have only seen one of these, although embarassingly it's the one at the top.
1. Marley & Me
2. Watchmen
3. Knowing
4. Paul Blart: Mall Cop
5. The Young Victoria
A puppy - could be Marley, but honestly who care's it's so cute...
Sunday, 29 March 2009
Film News (28/03/09)
I could give you more exuses as to why this post is late - but I won't, please just accept my humble apologies.
Robin Hood
It's definitely coming - the Ridley Scott version of the classic tale of men in green tights. After a six month delay due to the wrong leaves filming commenced this week with Russel Crowe as Robin Hood, Cate Blanchett as Maid Marian and Vanessa Redgrave as Eleanor of Aquitaine (it's the first time I've hears of Eleanor being wove into this story so it could be interesting to see how they handle one of the most charismatic women on th Middle Ages). No casting on the Sheriff of Nottingham or Friar Tuck just yet.
I grew up loving the stories of Robin Hood so I'll definitely be in the front of the queue for this one. My concern is that Scott isn't a great director, and never really outperforms his material. Although on the plus side it's been written by Brian Helgeland (L.A. Confidential, Mystic River), so there could be a good starting point.
Freedom Formula
Another week, another comic book/graphic novel adaptation (and this is the first of 2 I'm mentioning this week). This one isn't a million miles away from Iron Man in that it concerns a pilot in a fighting suit, although in this case he finds he can alter society dramatically. In a way I'm disappointed as it looks like Bryan Singer (Valkyrie, X-Men) has picked this up as his next project. I'm disappointed because he was due to make You Want me to Kill Him?, a much smaller picture about 2 boys who get together on a chat room and decide to kill off a bully - almost a cross between Elephant and Strangers on a Train and I'd much rather see Singer explore different aspects of cinema.
Strange Adventures of H.P. Lovecraft
The second comic book adaptation, of a graphic novel which will only be published next week, is a blend of fact and fiction about the influential horror writer H.P. Lovecraft blending in his works of fiction, and themes of mental illness and writers block. If it works it could be a 30's set Adaptation.
True Grit
The Coen brothers have chosen thier next project, and it isn't Hail Ceasar, Surbicon or The Yiddish Policeman's Union. Instead it's a remake of the 1969 John Wayne starrer, True Grit. They will be working more form the book than the original film so there will be more focus on the girl seeking revenge for the murder of her father and the tone will also be potentially darker. So serious Coen it is. Saying that there still could be an opportunity for an aging actor, who's been ignored by the academy, to pull a great performance out of the bag as Rooster Cogburn. I'd like to see Donald Sutherland give it a go (so many good films, not so much as an nomination) but who do you think?
Untitled James Mangold Picture
Would you believe it's be 5 whole weeks since a picture was annouced with James Mangold involved. Well, not to worry here's another. This time it's a rom-com with Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz, but apparently not Vanilla Sky 2. I'd like o see Tom do another rom-com, and Cameron used to be a great comic actress. I'd also love to see Mangold commit rather than keep dangling these projects in front of us, but I guees you can't have everything.
Untitled Woody Allen London Summer Picture
The crowded picture has now gained another familiar face in the guise of Nicole Kidman. The last time he had this sort of star power in a film was Everyone Says I love You - and I don't see that as a good sign.
Box Office News
Release Date News
Frozen River - Melissa Leo's Oscar nominated performance will finally get a UK release, nearly 12 months after it's release stateside on 10/07/09.
Away We Go - This curious baby on the way quirky comedy from Sam Mendes will be hitting our screens on 18/09/09. The trailer hasn't done much for me, but a lot of people are interested and it has a likeable cast.
Nine - The 8 1/2 musical with the extraordinary all star cast has chosen 27/11/09 as curtain up. I was worried that this wouldn't come out for ages after it hit the States (gotta love the Weinsteins) but it's looking like a day and date release so maybe they've worked out that we Brits love musicals.
Robin Hood - It's already had a mention once in this post, but you'll need to look out for Crowe hiding in the undergrowth on 14/05/10.
Salt - Anjelina Jolie will be vanquishing Russian Spies on 13/08/10. Good for her, eh?
Straw Dogs - I'd forgotten completely about this unnecessary remake from Rod Lurie, as I'd not heard anything about it since 2007. Apparently it's still on it's way, and due to be released on 17/09/10.
In less good news 2 films - Everlasting Moments (already trailered) and Vintner's Luck have both lost their release dates and are now in limbo. I can only hope it's because, in the first instance, the US release was too successful ($186k and counting) so they're rethinking their UK stratge, and in the second case it's being repositioned in the awards season. We'll see.
Box Office Report
Way out ahead from the February releases is Bolt, proving that kids films about Dogs are always a top seller here in the UK. Further down the scale at number 5 is Hotel for Dogs, as well, although I expect Gran Torino to take the fifth slot after this weekend. Still can find no reason for it's strange release strategy, other than it not appearing on this list. Bizarrely as it stands I've not seen any of February's top 5 (although I did recommned CCoBB as my pic of the week).
1. Bolt
2. He's Just not That Into You
3. The Curious Case of Benjamin Buton
4. Confessions of a Shopoholic
5. Hoel for Dogs
