Two decades and countless rewatches later, I'm still not sure if "Love, Actually" is a good Christmas movies or if it's just the most interesting one to talk about. If you've seen the movie — or even just been online around Christmastime in the past decade — you'll know all the familiar talking points. Fans can't believe that little kid ended up in "Game of Thrones," or that anyone could call Natalie fat. They think Laura Linney's character deserved better, but also, it's good to see a movie admitting that the holidays can be heartbreaking. The Colin Firth plot still makes romantics swoon (even though it has its faults), but Alan Rickman's character is a total snake.
Every subplot of Richard Curtis' ensemble film is worth talking about, but 21 years on, it seems clear that one gets discussed more than any other: the limply written love triangle between Andrew Lincoln's Mark,...
Every subplot of Richard Curtis' ensemble film is worth talking about, but 21 years on, it seems clear that one gets discussed more than any other: the limply written love triangle between Andrew Lincoln's Mark,...
- 5/26/2024
- by Valerie Ettenhofer
- Slash Film
Paul Feig was just a couple of days away from wrapping the sequel to “A Simple Favor” in Italy when he got to share some very good news with the cast – the first film is currently the No. 1 most watched movie on Netflix.
“I sent it to all my main cast saying, ‘Hey, we’re doing the right thing here,” Feig says on a phone call from the movie’s Rome set.
Blake Lively, Anna Kendrick and Henry Golding reprise their original roles for the followup. New cast members include Tony winner Alex Newell and Oscar winner and frequent Feig collaborator Allison Janney.
The 2018 movie stars Kendrick as widowed vlogger Stephanie who takes it upon herself to investigate the disappearance of her friend Emily (Lively). The $20 million crime comedy grossed nearly $100,000,000 in the U.S.
“I’m thrilled,” Feig says about being on the top of the Netflix movies chart.
“I sent it to all my main cast saying, ‘Hey, we’re doing the right thing here,” Feig says on a phone call from the movie’s Rome set.
Blake Lively, Anna Kendrick and Henry Golding reprise their original roles for the followup. New cast members include Tony winner Alex Newell and Oscar winner and frequent Feig collaborator Allison Janney.
The 2018 movie stars Kendrick as widowed vlogger Stephanie who takes it upon herself to investigate the disappearance of her friend Emily (Lively). The $20 million crime comedy grossed nearly $100,000,000 in the U.S.
“I’m thrilled,” Feig says about being on the top of the Netflix movies chart.
- 5/23/2024
- by Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
A Simple Favor 2 has been confirmed to hit Prime Video in 2025 by director Paul Feig. More on the film below.
We first heard about A Simple Favor 2 all the way back in 2022 when Lionsgate was planning a sequel to Paul Feig’s devilishly fun thriller. Lionsgate didn’t move forward with the project, but earlier this year, we reported that Prime Video had picked up the sequel.
Feig has now taken to X (previously known as Twitter) to confirm that not only has filming wrapped, but we can now expect the sequel to stream on Prime Video sometime in 2025.
We’re number one on @netflix! And we wrap production on #ASimpleFavor2 this Tuesday in Italy for @PrimeVideo, which will stream in 240 countries in 2025! Get ready.
We first heard about A Simple Favor 2 all the way back in 2022 when Lionsgate was planning a sequel to Paul Feig’s devilishly fun thriller. Lionsgate didn’t move forward with the project, but earlier this year, we reported that Prime Video had picked up the sequel.
Feig has now taken to X (previously known as Twitter) to confirm that not only has filming wrapped, but we can now expect the sequel to stream on Prime Video sometime in 2025.
We’re number one on @netflix! And we wrap production on #ASimpleFavor2 this Tuesday in Italy for @PrimeVideo, which will stream in 240 countries in 2025! Get ready.
- 5/23/2024
- by Maria Lattila
- Film Stories
When self-conscious vlogger Stephanie befriends the intimidatingly powerful Emily at her son’s school, she’s elated — even if their relationship mostly revolves around Stephanie doing favors for Emily. But when Emily goes missing, Stephanie makes it her mission to find out what happened to her Gone Girl’d pal … and digs up some deep dark secrets in the process. The 2018 film A Simple Favor, from Bridesmaids director Paul Feig, stars Anna Kendrick, Blake Lively, and Henry Golding.
Stream it now.
Stephanie (Kendrick) is a power PTA mom and vlogger who never passes up a chance to volunteer at Warfield Elementary, where her son, Miles (Joshua Satine), goes to school. She’s also a widower who’s desperate for friends. So when she meets the elusive Emily (Lively), the mom of Miles’ friend Nicky (Ian Ho), she’s intrigued. Emily is everything Stephanie isn’t — unapologetic, super confident, always dressed...
Stream it now.
Stephanie (Kendrick) is a power PTA mom and vlogger who never passes up a chance to volunteer at Warfield Elementary, where her son, Miles (Joshua Satine), goes to school. She’s also a widower who’s desperate for friends. So when she meets the elusive Emily (Lively), the mom of Miles’ friend Nicky (Ian Ho), she’s intrigued. Emily is everything Stephanie isn’t — unapologetic, super confident, always dressed...
- 5/22/2024
- by Ingrid Ostby
- Tudum - Netflix
“Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” (Warner Bros.), the year’s second-biggest grossing film so far (after the same studio’s “Dune: Part Two”). The $19.99 rental was an immediate #1 on both the iTunes (transaction counting) and Fandango (revenue) VOD charts.
The release comes 46 days after its theatrical opening, a fairly standard delay if not a bit longer. Meanwhile, “Godzilla Minus One” (Toho), the sleeper Japanese success and Oscar Visual Effects winner, has now passed the five-week mark since its domestic release with no home viewing options in sight.
The timing is tied to agreements between Legendary Films (the domestic “Godzilla” licensee) and the franchise’s Japanese owner to not directly compete with each other. As the Warners film advances in its home availability ($5.99 rentals and Max streaming still to come), it remains to be seen when Toho’s film will be permitted.
At the other end of the spectrum, Netflix...
The release comes 46 days after its theatrical opening, a fairly standard delay if not a bit longer. Meanwhile, “Godzilla Minus One” (Toho), the sleeper Japanese success and Oscar Visual Effects winner, has now passed the five-week mark since its domestic release with no home viewing options in sight.
The timing is tied to agreements between Legendary Films (the domestic “Godzilla” licensee) and the franchise’s Japanese owner to not directly compete with each other. As the Warners film advances in its home availability ($5.99 rentals and Max streaming still to come), it remains to be seen when Toho’s film will be permitted.
At the other end of the spectrum, Netflix...
- 5/21/2024
- by Tom Brueggemann
- Indiewire
Are we on the verge of a Livelaissance? Four years after her last live-action movie role, Blake Lively is returning to the big screen this year with "It Ends With Us." The film adaptation of Colleen Hoover's best-selling toxic relationship novel made waves this past week with the arrival of its trailer, which even came fitted with an appropriately bleary-eyed tune by Lively's buddy Taylor Swift. It's also a reminder of just how well Livelites (which is what I'm calling Lively fans until I come up with a better name) were eating in the 2010s.
We're talking about a decade in which the "Gossip Girl" and "Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants" alum was in a marijuana-growing throuple in "Savages," played a woman who stopped aging at 29 and dated a young Harrison Ford in "The Age of Adaline," and killed a great white shark with her bare hands in "The Shallows...
We're talking about a decade in which the "Gossip Girl" and "Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants" alum was in a marijuana-growing throuple in "Savages," played a woman who stopped aging at 29 and dated a young Harrison Ford in "The Age of Adaline," and killed a great white shark with her bare hands in "The Shallows...
- 5/20/2024
- by Sandy Schaefer
- Slash Film
Looking back, can we imagine a bright-eyed Rebel Wilson stepping onto the set of Paul Feig’s 2011 comedy flick Bridesmaids, ready to dive into the challenging waters of Hollywood? Who could have predicted the bittersweet symphony that would follow her joy at receiving her first American paycheck?
Recently, this cheery Australian actress, known for her exceptional wit and comedic timing, humbly shared her success story and the financial struggle during the Diary of a CEO podcast with Steven Bartlett. Despite being cast in a hit 2011 comedy that catapulted her into the spotlight, Wilson revealed that the joy was tempered by the harsh reality of a $3,500 salary being swallowed up almost entirely by SAG-AFTRA “union” dues.
Rebel Wilson on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen (Credit: @rebelwilson on Ig)
Yes, Wilson actually detailed her struggle after earning $3500 for her first job in America with Bridesmaids, which also starred Kristen Wiig,...
Recently, this cheery Australian actress, known for her exceptional wit and comedic timing, humbly shared her success story and the financial struggle during the Diary of a CEO podcast with Steven Bartlett. Despite being cast in a hit 2011 comedy that catapulted her into the spotlight, Wilson revealed that the joy was tempered by the harsh reality of a $3,500 salary being swallowed up almost entirely by SAG-AFTRA “union” dues.
Rebel Wilson on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen (Credit: @rebelwilson on Ig)
Yes, Wilson actually detailed her struggle after earning $3500 for her first job in America with Bridesmaids, which also starred Kristen Wiig,...
- 5/14/2024
- by Siddhika Prajapati
- FandomWire
Hollywood A-listers took to social media this weekend to honor Sam Rubin, the beloved Ktla anchor who died on Friday.
“Your professionalism was unmatched by your kindness and humanity,” Viola Davis wrote on Instagram. “I will miss your presence on The Red Carpet. God bless your loved ones. Godspeed.”
Rubin was a popular entertainment anchor on Ktla-tv’s morning show, and appeared across Hollywood at award shows and red carpet events. He died of a heart attack on Friday at age 64.
“Ktla 5 is profoundly saddened to report the death of Sam Rubin,” the channel wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “Sam was a giant in the local news industry and the entertainment world and a fixture of Los Angeles morning television for decades. His laugh, charm and caring personality touched all who knew him. Sam was a loving husband and father: the roles he cherished the most. Our thoughts are with...
“Your professionalism was unmatched by your kindness and humanity,” Viola Davis wrote on Instagram. “I will miss your presence on The Red Carpet. God bless your loved ones. Godspeed.”
Rubin was a popular entertainment anchor on Ktla-tv’s morning show, and appeared across Hollywood at award shows and red carpet events. He died of a heart attack on Friday at age 64.
“Ktla 5 is profoundly saddened to report the death of Sam Rubin,” the channel wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “Sam was a giant in the local news industry and the entertainment world and a fixture of Los Angeles morning television for decades. His laugh, charm and caring personality touched all who knew him. Sam was a loving husband and father: the roles he cherished the most. Our thoughts are with...
- 5/11/2024
- by Zoe G Phillips
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
After revealing in her memoir Rebel Rising that she only received $3,500 for Bridesmaids, Rebel Wilson has now shared that she lost money on the film because, in addition to having to spend part of her pay to join the Screen Actors Guild, she had to buy her own outfit for the Bridesmaids premiere.
“I basically made no money,” she said. “I lost money because I had to pay to go to the premiere, like to buy my dress and everything.”
Wilson then noted that she had to wait a year after filming to receive her paycheck for the Paul Feig-helmed comedy, which made her financial situation more difficult. “That was a really skint year where I was living on $60 a week in L.A. once I’d paid my rent and my car hire,” she recalled. “I wasn’t partying or living this [movie star] life. It was basically having that focus,...
“I basically made no money,” she said. “I lost money because I had to pay to go to the premiere, like to buy my dress and everything.”
Wilson then noted that she had to wait a year after filming to receive her paycheck for the Paul Feig-helmed comedy, which made her financial situation more difficult. “That was a really skint year where I was living on $60 a week in L.A. once I’d paid my rent and my car hire,” she recalled. “I wasn’t partying or living this [movie star] life. It was basically having that focus,...
- 5/8/2024
- by Tatiana Tenreyro
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Today, ahead of its inaugural upfront presentation on May 14, Prime Video released the first photos from its upcoming original action comedy Jackpot.
In the near future, a “Grand Lottery” has been newly established in California—the catch: Kill the winner before sundown to legally claim their multi-billion dollar jackpot.
When Katie Kim (Awkwafina) moves to Los Angeles, she mistakenly finds herself with the winning ticket.
Desperate to survive the hordes of jackpot hunters, she reluctantly joins forces with amateur lottery protection agent Noel Cassidy (John Cena), who will do everything in his power to get her to sundown in exchange for a piece of her prize.
However, Noel must face off with his slick rival Louis Lewis (Simu Liu), who also seeks to collect Katie’s commission at all costs.
Jackpot was rated R by the MPA for pervasive language, violence, and sexual references.
Previously titled “Grand Death Lotto,” Jackpot...
In the near future, a “Grand Lottery” has been newly established in California—the catch: Kill the winner before sundown to legally claim their multi-billion dollar jackpot.
When Katie Kim (Awkwafina) moves to Los Angeles, she mistakenly finds herself with the winning ticket.
Desperate to survive the hordes of jackpot hunters, she reluctantly joins forces with amateur lottery protection agent Noel Cassidy (John Cena), who will do everything in his power to get her to sundown in exchange for a piece of her prize.
However, Noel must face off with his slick rival Louis Lewis (Simu Liu), who also seeks to collect Katie’s commission at all costs.
Jackpot was rated R by the MPA for pervasive language, violence, and sexual references.
Previously titled “Grand Death Lotto,” Jackpot...
- 5/6/2024
- by Mirko Parlevliet
- Vital Thrills
Fiona Apple is the go-to songwriter for exorcising your romantic demons, ruing the ones you loved, the ones who didn’t love you back, the ones you pushed away amid yet another freefall of your own design. She’s also the go-to singer for three studio comedy auteurs: Michael Showalter, Judd Apatow, and Paul Feig.
Apple’s songs have featured in three of their films — Apple wrote the original song “Dull Tool” for Apatow’s “This Is 40,” capturing a decades-long marriage at its breaking point. Elsewhere, her epic ball of romantic resignation “Cosmonauts,” off the 2020 album “Fetch the Bolt Cutters,” was also originally meant for that film. Meanwhile, her classic cabaret-inspired love song “Paper Bag,” about having too much emotional baggage to enter into a new relationship she wants “so bad, oh it kills,” featured in Feig’s “Bridesmaids” in a montage of Annie (Kristen Wiig) making cupcakes as...
Apple’s songs have featured in three of their films — Apple wrote the original song “Dull Tool” for Apatow’s “This Is 40,” capturing a decades-long marriage at its breaking point. Elsewhere, her epic ball of romantic resignation “Cosmonauts,” off the 2020 album “Fetch the Bolt Cutters,” was also originally meant for that film. Meanwhile, her classic cabaret-inspired love song “Paper Bag,” about having too much emotional baggage to enter into a new relationship she wants “so bad, oh it kills,” featured in Feig’s “Bridesmaids” in a montage of Annie (Kristen Wiig) making cupcakes as...
- 5/3/2024
- by Ryan Lattanzio
- Indiewire
Entertainment Weekly is taking a look at the upcoming summer movies in their latest issue. One film that the publication is previewing comes from Spy and Bridesmaids director, Paul Feig. His latest action comedy is titled Jackpot, which stars John Cena, Awkwafina and Simu Liu. Jackpot will be hitting Prime Video on August 15 and EW has the first look photos from the film.
The synopsis according to Entertainment Weekly reads,
“The film follows new Los Angeles transplant Katie (Awkwafina), who accidentally finds herself with a winning lottery ticket that makes her a target in the Grand Lottery, a new contest in an economically challenged California that allows others to seize the ticket (and its prize) if they kill the winner by sundown.
When Katie joins forces with Noel (John Cena), an amateur jackpot protector, they try to survive the day, facing off against random adversaries and Louis Lewis (Simu Liu...
The synopsis according to Entertainment Weekly reads,
“The film follows new Los Angeles transplant Katie (Awkwafina), who accidentally finds herself with a winning lottery ticket that makes her a target in the Grand Lottery, a new contest in an economically challenged California that allows others to seize the ticket (and its prize) if they kill the winner by sundown.
When Katie joins forces with Noel (John Cena), an amateur jackpot protector, they try to survive the day, facing off against random adversaries and Louis Lewis (Simu Liu...
- 5/3/2024
- by EJ Tangonan
- JoBlo.com
Padma Lakshmi’s post-Top Chef career may veer further into comedy, as the popular former host of the hit reality competition show shops around a comedy series script and continues to host her stand-up comedy night in Brooklyn.
In a wide-ranging and revealing New Yorker profile, out on Tuesday, Lakshmi tells writer Helen Rosner that the series was developed with Bridesmaids and Spy director Paul Feig, adding that it is a “hard comedy,” but declining to share its title or more about the show’s pitch. Lakshmi plans to produce and star in the series, she told the magazine.
Lakshmi has managed to become a household name, or at least an icon of the sensual potential of food, over her two decades as host of Bravo’s Top Chef. She exited the reality competition series in 2023 after 19 seasons, she said, “after much soul searching.” Kristen Kish filled her shoes...
In a wide-ranging and revealing New Yorker profile, out on Tuesday, Lakshmi tells writer Helen Rosner that the series was developed with Bridesmaids and Spy director Paul Feig, adding that it is a “hard comedy,” but declining to share its title or more about the show’s pitch. Lakshmi plans to produce and star in the series, she told the magazine.
Lakshmi has managed to become a household name, or at least an icon of the sensual potential of food, over her two decades as host of Bravo’s Top Chef. She exited the reality competition series in 2023 after 19 seasons, she said, “after much soul searching.” Kristen Kish filled her shoes...
- 4/23/2024
- by Kevin Dolak
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Vashon Film Institute has set the date for the third annual Vashon Island Film Festival, which is slated to take place Aug. 8-11. The announcement comes with the launch of two new divisions of the Vashon Film Institute and a new donation arm, which accepts restricted funds to be used solely to fund improvements at the Vashon Theatre.
Vfi’s new divisions are the Quartermaster Lab, a collective of filmmaking programs, and VFIpresents, its sales, distribution and release division, which will also focus on organizing community events outside Viff.
“The quintessential goal in founding Vfi was to support independent filmmaking in the Pacific Northwest,” said Mark Mathias Sayre, founder of Vashon Film Institute. “To that end, Viff has already brought compelling indie features and documentaries to local audiences and will continue to do so. But that’s only part of the game plan: We’re equally committed to engendering the...
Vfi’s new divisions are the Quartermaster Lab, a collective of filmmaking programs, and VFIpresents, its sales, distribution and release division, which will also focus on organizing community events outside Viff.
“The quintessential goal in founding Vfi was to support independent filmmaking in the Pacific Northwest,” said Mark Mathias Sayre, founder of Vashon Film Institute. “To that end, Viff has already brought compelling indie features and documentaries to local audiences and will continue to do so. But that’s only part of the game plan: We’re equally committed to engendering the...
- 4/19/2024
- by Selena Kuznikov and Jack Dunn
- Variety Film + TV
FX’s pilot The Sensitive Kind from creator Sterlin Harjo (Reservation Dogs) has added five to its cast: Killer Mike (Ozark), Kaniehtiio Horn (Reservation Dogs), Cody Lightning (Echo), Michael Hitchcock (Grand Death Lotto) and Ryan Kiera Armstrong (Star Wars: Skeleton Crew).
Details as to the roles these actors will play are under wraps.
Also written, directed and exec produced by Harjo, The Sensitive Kind is described as a Tulsa noir about a guy (Ethan Hawke) who knows too much. As previously announced, Keith David, Siena East, Jeanne Tripplehorn, Tim Blake Nelson, Scott Shepherd, Tracy Letts, Kyle Maclachlan and Macon Blair will also star.
The project is Harjo’s first for TV since Reservation Dogs, the acclaimed FX dramedy which won an AFI Award for each of its three seasons. Additional EPs include Garrett Basch and Hawke. FX Productions is the studio.
A Grammy-winning rapper of Run the Jewels fame, Killer...
Details as to the roles these actors will play are under wraps.
Also written, directed and exec produced by Harjo, The Sensitive Kind is described as a Tulsa noir about a guy (Ethan Hawke) who knows too much. As previously announced, Keith David, Siena East, Jeanne Tripplehorn, Tim Blake Nelson, Scott Shepherd, Tracy Letts, Kyle Maclachlan and Macon Blair will also star.
The project is Harjo’s first for TV since Reservation Dogs, the acclaimed FX dramedy which won an AFI Award for each of its three seasons. Additional EPs include Garrett Basch and Hawke. FX Productions is the studio.
A Grammy-winning rapper of Run the Jewels fame, Killer...
- 4/18/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
The USC School of Cinematic Arts has announced that Miky Lee will deliver the 20024 Commencement address.
James Gray, director, writer, and Sca alumnus, will receive the Mary Pickford Alumni Award at the graduation ceremony at the Shrine Auditorium on Friday, May 10, 2024.
“Miky Lee is a true pioneer and ambassador of collaborative global filmmaking, and we are so happy to have her share her insight and expertise with our graduating students,” Elizabeth M. Daley, Dean of the USC School of Cinematic Arts, said in a statement. “Miky works across borders, cultures, and genres, and champions the kinds of projects our students aspire to creating. We are so pleased she agreed to be this year’s graduation speaker.”
Sca alumnus Jon M. Chu, who graduated in 2003 with a Bfa in film & television production, will speak at this year’s main, university-wide commencement ceremony at 8:30 a.m. at Alumni Park.
As Commencement Speaker,...
James Gray, director, writer, and Sca alumnus, will receive the Mary Pickford Alumni Award at the graduation ceremony at the Shrine Auditorium on Friday, May 10, 2024.
“Miky Lee is a true pioneer and ambassador of collaborative global filmmaking, and we are so happy to have her share her insight and expertise with our graduating students,” Elizabeth M. Daley, Dean of the USC School of Cinematic Arts, said in a statement. “Miky works across borders, cultures, and genres, and champions the kinds of projects our students aspire to creating. We are so pleased she agreed to be this year’s graduation speaker.”
Sca alumnus Jon M. Chu, who graduated in 2003 with a Bfa in film & television production, will speak at this year’s main, university-wide commencement ceremony at 8:30 a.m. at Alumni Park.
As Commencement Speaker,...
- 4/17/2024
- by Armando Tinoco
- Deadline Film + TV
Miky Lee, vice chair of Korean media giant Cj, is set to give the USC School of Cinematic Arts 2024 commencement address, organizers said Tuesday.
As a pioneer of the Korean movie wave, Lee has championed Korean directors like Park Chan-wook and Bong Joon Ho, and has executive producer credits that include Lady Vengeance, The Host, Snowpiercer, The Handmaiden and Parasite, the latter of which was the first non-English-language film to win the Oscar for best picture.
She will give the commencement address at the graduation ceremony set for May 10 at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles.
“Miky Lee is a true pioneer and ambassador of collaborative global filmmaking, and we are so happy to have her share her insight and expertise with our graduating students,” Elizabeth M. Daley, dean of the USC School of Cinematic Arts, said in a statement.
Organizers also announced that the veteran Hollywood director, writer and...
As a pioneer of the Korean movie wave, Lee has championed Korean directors like Park Chan-wook and Bong Joon Ho, and has executive producer credits that include Lady Vengeance, The Host, Snowpiercer, The Handmaiden and Parasite, the latter of which was the first non-English-language film to win the Oscar for best picture.
She will give the commencement address at the graduation ceremony set for May 10 at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles.
“Miky Lee is a true pioneer and ambassador of collaborative global filmmaking, and we are so happy to have her share her insight and expertise with our graduating students,” Elizabeth M. Daley, dean of the USC School of Cinematic Arts, said in a statement.
Organizers also announced that the veteran Hollywood director, writer and...
- 4/16/2024
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: M88 has signed actor Simu Liu (Shang-Chi) for representation.
Best known for starring in Destin Daniel Cretton’s superhero flick Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, which saw him make history as the first Asian lead in the MCU, Liu was more recently seen starring opposite Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling in Greta Gerwig’s record-setting Barbie, taking on the role of Rival Ken in the Warner Bros juggernaut.
The actor broke out with his starring role in the popular CBC/Netflix sitcom Kim’s Convenience and has also previously been seen on Max’s comedy series The Other Two.
Next up, Liu will star in an espionage thriller series for Peacock, which he will also executive produce alongside James Wan for Atomic Monster. Other upcoming projects include the Netflix sci-fi thriller Atlas, in which he stars opposite Jennifer Lopez, and Amazon’s action comedy Grand Death Lotto from director Paul Feig,...
Best known for starring in Destin Daniel Cretton’s superhero flick Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, which saw him make history as the first Asian lead in the MCU, Liu was more recently seen starring opposite Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling in Greta Gerwig’s record-setting Barbie, taking on the role of Rival Ken in the Warner Bros juggernaut.
The actor broke out with his starring role in the popular CBC/Netflix sitcom Kim’s Convenience and has also previously been seen on Max’s comedy series The Other Two.
Next up, Liu will star in an espionage thriller series for Peacock, which he will also executive produce alongside James Wan for Atomic Monster. Other upcoming projects include the Netflix sci-fi thriller Atlas, in which he stars opposite Jennifer Lopez, and Amazon’s action comedy Grand Death Lotto from director Paul Feig,...
- 4/16/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Henry Golding is giving an update on the status of A Simple Favor 2!
The 37-year-old actor is currently promoting his new film The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare. Henry notably played Sean Townsend in the 2018 movie A Simple favor, starring Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively.
In March, a sequel was greenlit at Amazon. Many actors, including Anna, Blake, and Henry, are slated to return in A Simple Favor 2.
At the premiere of The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare on Monday (April 15) in New York City, Henry spilled some details on A Simple Favor 2!
Keep reading to find out more…
The star addressed recent set photos that featured Anna, Blake, and Michele Morrone filming a wedding scene.
“I was there, too! But I didn’t get any photos,” he told Et. “Maybe I gave away too much.”
Henry also commented on what director Paul Feig plans to implement in the sequel.
“Paul is...
The 37-year-old actor is currently promoting his new film The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare. Henry notably played Sean Townsend in the 2018 movie A Simple favor, starring Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively.
In March, a sequel was greenlit at Amazon. Many actors, including Anna, Blake, and Henry, are slated to return in A Simple Favor 2.
At the premiere of The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare on Monday (April 15) in New York City, Henry spilled some details on A Simple Favor 2!
Keep reading to find out more…
The star addressed recent set photos that featured Anna, Blake, and Michele Morrone filming a wedding scene.
“I was there, too! But I didn’t get any photos,” he told Et. “Maybe I gave away too much.”
Henry also commented on what director Paul Feig plans to implement in the sequel.
“Paul is...
- 4/16/2024
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
Some of the biggest names in comedy are mourning Joe Flaherty.
After news broke that Flaherty, best known for his work on the sketch show Sctv and Freaks and Geeks died at age 82, comedians, including Adam Sandler and Martin Short, shared their condolences and favorite memories of Flaherty in their lives and careers.
Flaherty’s daughter, Gudrun, confirmed his death in a statement with the New York Times, sharing he died after “a brief illness” on Monday. “Since then, I’ve been struggling to come to terms with this immense loss,...
After news broke that Flaherty, best known for his work on the sketch show Sctv and Freaks and Geeks died at age 82, comedians, including Adam Sandler and Martin Short, shared their condolences and favorite memories of Flaherty in their lives and careers.
Flaherty’s daughter, Gudrun, confirmed his death in a statement with the New York Times, sharing he died after “a brief illness” on Monday. “Since then, I’ve been struggling to come to terms with this immense loss,...
- 4/2/2024
- by Tomás Mier
- Rollingstone.com
Refresh for updates… Tributes are pouring in for Joe Flaherty, whose career launched with Canadian sketch comedy series Sctv, and who was known for his roles as Harold Weir on Freaks and Geeks, and Donald the heckler in Happy Gilmore. Flaherty died Monday at the age of 82.
Martin Short, Flaherty’s co-star on Sctv, remembered Flaherty as “the funniest man in the room.”
“In over 50 years of our friendship, there were very few people as wise or hilarious when it came to comedy, teaching improvisation and the art of character work as Joe,” Short wrote in a press statement. “In ‘Sctv’ we called him the anchor. In life, he was simply the funniest man in the room. I just adored him.”
Adam Sandler paid tribute to his Happy Gilmore co-star in a post on Instagram.
“Oh man. Worshipped Joe growing up, Sandler wrote next to photo of Flaherty. “Always had me and my brother laughing.
Martin Short, Flaherty’s co-star on Sctv, remembered Flaherty as “the funniest man in the room.”
“In over 50 years of our friendship, there were very few people as wise or hilarious when it came to comedy, teaching improvisation and the art of character work as Joe,” Short wrote in a press statement. “In ‘Sctv’ we called him the anchor. In life, he was simply the funniest man in the room. I just adored him.”
Adam Sandler paid tribute to his Happy Gilmore co-star in a post on Instagram.
“Oh man. Worshipped Joe growing up, Sandler wrote next to photo of Flaherty. “Always had me and my brother laughing.
- 4/2/2024
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Joe Flaherty, who got his start in Canadian sketch comedy show Sctv and was best known for his roles as Harold Weir in Freaks and Geeks, Donald in Happy Gilmore and Western Union Man in Back to the Future Part II, died on Tuesday after battling an undisclosed illness. He was 82.
His death was confirmed to the Canadian press by his daughter Gudrun Flaherty. As reported in February, Toronto’s Second City comedy troupe organized a fundraiser to facilitate with the late actor’s health.
The message on the fundraiser read, “Our beloved Sctv cast member, Joe Flaherty, is very ill. Joe is aware of the gravity of his failing health and would like to spend whatever time he has left at home rather than in a facility.”
Following the confirmation of his death, many of Flaherty’s co-stars and notable fans reacted to the news. His Freaks and Geeks co-star John Francis Daley,...
His death was confirmed to the Canadian press by his daughter Gudrun Flaherty. As reported in February, Toronto’s Second City comedy troupe organized a fundraiser to facilitate with the late actor’s health.
The message on the fundraiser read, “Our beloved Sctv cast member, Joe Flaherty, is very ill. Joe is aware of the gravity of his failing health and would like to spend whatever time he has left at home rather than in a facility.”
Following the confirmation of his death, many of Flaherty’s co-stars and notable fans reacted to the news. His Freaks and Geeks co-star John Francis Daley,...
- 4/2/2024
- by Tatiana Tenreyro
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Joe Flaherty, founding member of “Sctv” and ubiquitous comic actor for decades including a stint as the Dad on “Freaks and Geeks,” has died at the age of 82, according to multiple reports.
The Pittsburgh-born performer (a rare American in the Canadian comedy sphere) got his start with the Chicago-based Second City Theater, first appearing on the “National Lampoon Radio Hour” before resettling in Toronto to become part of Second City’s core in the Great White North. He was one of the initial writer/performers on “Sctv,” a vanguard sketch comedy series co-starring John Candy, Eugene Levy, Andrea Martin, Rick Moranis, Catherine O’Hara, Harold Ramis (for a little while), Dave Thomas, and, later, Martin Short, that mixed parody programming with behind-the-scenes shenanigans at a low rent television station in “Mellonville.” Indeed, if “Sctv” could be said to have a main character, it would be Flaherty’s Guy Caballero, the corrupt,...
The Pittsburgh-born performer (a rare American in the Canadian comedy sphere) got his start with the Chicago-based Second City Theater, first appearing on the “National Lampoon Radio Hour” before resettling in Toronto to become part of Second City’s core in the Great White North. He was one of the initial writer/performers on “Sctv,” a vanguard sketch comedy series co-starring John Candy, Eugene Levy, Andrea Martin, Rick Moranis, Catherine O’Hara, Harold Ramis (for a little while), Dave Thomas, and, later, Martin Short, that mixed parody programming with behind-the-scenes shenanigans at a low rent television station in “Mellonville.” Indeed, if “Sctv” could be said to have a main character, it would be Flaherty’s Guy Caballero, the corrupt,...
- 4/2/2024
- by Jordan Hoffman
- Gold Derby
You can always expect Allison Janney to deliver a great performance any time she shows up in a movie or TV show, and she even won a Best Supporting Actress Oscar for her role in the 2018 film I, Tonya. Next up on the list of projects she’ll be gracing with her presence is A Simple Favor 2, which reteams Bridesmaids and Ghostbusters director Paul Feig with his A Simple Favor stars Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick. Filming is expected to begin this spring, and the film is heading for a streaming release on Prime Video.
There are several more returning cast members this sequel. In addition to Lively and Kendrick, Henry Golding, Andrew Rannells, Bashir Salahuddin, Joshua Satine, Ian Ho, and Kelly McCormack will all be reprising their roles from the first movie. Variety reports that Janney’s fellow new additions include Elena Sofia Ricci (Loose Cannons), Michele Morrone (365 Days...
There are several more returning cast members this sequel. In addition to Lively and Kendrick, Henry Golding, Andrew Rannells, Bashir Salahuddin, Joshua Satine, Ian Ho, and Kelly McCormack will all be reprising their roles from the first movie. Variety reports that Janney’s fellow new additions include Elena Sofia Ricci (Loose Cannons), Michele Morrone (365 Days...
- 3/29/2024
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
Allison Janney is joining the cast of Amazon MGM Studios’ “A Simple Favor 2.” The actor will join returning cast members Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick in the sequel to Paul Feig’s 2018 mystery-comedy film.
The sequel will follow Stephanie (Kendrick) and Emily (Lively) as they head to the beautiful island of Capri for Emily’s extravagant wedding to a wealthy Italian businessman. Along with the glamorous guests, murder and betrayal swirl at a wedding with more twists and turns than the road from the Marina Grande to the Capri town square.
Henry Golding, Andrew Rannells, Bashir Salahuddin, Joshua Satine, Ian Ho, Kelly McCormack and Aparna Nancherla will also reprise their roles in the film, which is targeting a spring start-of-production. The cast is rounded out by Elena Sofia Ricci, Michele Morrone, Elizabeth Perkins, Alex Newell, Taylor Ortega and Lorenzo de Moor.
Janney, who has racked up an Oscar, seven Emmys,...
The sequel will follow Stephanie (Kendrick) and Emily (Lively) as they head to the beautiful island of Capri for Emily’s extravagant wedding to a wealthy Italian businessman. Along with the glamorous guests, murder and betrayal swirl at a wedding with more twists and turns than the road from the Marina Grande to the Capri town square.
Henry Golding, Andrew Rannells, Bashir Salahuddin, Joshua Satine, Ian Ho, Kelly McCormack and Aparna Nancherla will also reprise their roles in the film, which is targeting a spring start-of-production. The cast is rounded out by Elena Sofia Ricci, Michele Morrone, Elizabeth Perkins, Alex Newell, Taylor Ortega and Lorenzo de Moor.
Janney, who has racked up an Oscar, seven Emmys,...
- 3/29/2024
- by Katcy Stephan
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Following recent confirmation from Amazon MGM Studios and Lionsgate that A Simple Favor 2 is a go, the film has added seven new cast members: Elena Sofia Ricci, Michele Morrone (365 Days), Elizabeth Perkins (Minx), Alex Newell (Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist), Taylor Ortega (Grand Death Lotto), Lorenzo de Moor, and Aparna Nancherla (The Drop).
While Nancherla reprises her role as Sona, all other roles are new and under wraps for now.
Deadline was first to report on the sequel two years ago, as stars Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively and director Paul Feig signed on to return. Others set to reprise include Henry Golding, Andrew Rannells, Bashir Salahuddin, Joshua Satine, Ian Ho, and Kelly McCormack.
Released by Lionsgate in 2018 to critical acclaim and more than $97 million at the worldwide box office, A Simple Favor is a mystery thriller that adapts the same-name novel by Darcey Bell. The first film introduces...
While Nancherla reprises her role as Sona, all other roles are new and under wraps for now.
Deadline was first to report on the sequel two years ago, as stars Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively and director Paul Feig signed on to return. Others set to reprise include Henry Golding, Andrew Rannells, Bashir Salahuddin, Joshua Satine, Ian Ho, and Kelly McCormack.
Released by Lionsgate in 2018 to critical acclaim and more than $97 million at the worldwide box office, A Simple Favor is a mystery thriller that adapts the same-name novel by Darcey Bell. The first film introduces...
- 3/28/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Forty years later, it’s safe to say Sony and one of its most beloved film titles still ain’t ‘fraid of no ghost. They also apparently need not fear curmudgeonly film reviews either based on the solid performance of Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire over last weekend’s box office.
Despite receiving a tepid Rotten Tomatoes aggregate score of 44 percent, the fourth or fifth film in the franchise—depending how you count Paul Feig’s 2016 remake of the same name—opened above expectations with an estimated $45 million in three days. That is nearly identical to 2021’s Ghostbusters: Afterlife, which opened at $44 million, and the aforementioned 2016 remake, which grossed $46 million in its debut. Given such similarities, it’s probably worth noting that one reason the 2016 reboot was perceived as a financial disappointment and Afterlife was not is because the former cost a reported $145 million while Afterlife’s price tag was about half that.
Despite receiving a tepid Rotten Tomatoes aggregate score of 44 percent, the fourth or fifth film in the franchise—depending how you count Paul Feig’s 2016 remake of the same name—opened above expectations with an estimated $45 million in three days. That is nearly identical to 2021’s Ghostbusters: Afterlife, which opened at $44 million, and the aforementioned 2016 remake, which grossed $46 million in its debut. Given such similarities, it’s probably worth noting that one reason the 2016 reboot was perceived as a financial disappointment and Afterlife was not is because the former cost a reported $145 million while Afterlife’s price tag was about half that.
- 3/28/2024
- by David Crow
- Den of Geek
A Simple Favour 2 is moving forward at Prime Video, with director Paul Feig and stars Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively all making a return.
A Simple Favour did decent business relative to its outlay in 2018, grossing $97m worldwide on a $20m budget. Paul Feig directed the darkly comic mystery about a vlogger (Anna Kendrick) who investigates the disappearance of her elegant (and enigmatic) new best friend (Blake Lively).
A sequel has been in development for years; Simon Brew spoke to Feig about the first film on the Film Stories podcast in 2018 and discussed the sequel when Feig was our guest at a live podcast recording in 2022.
We also have a synopsis for the sequel, per Deadline:
In Part Two, we see the return of Stephanie Smothers (Anna Kendrick) and Emily Nelson (Blake Lively) as they head to the beautiful island of Capri, Italy, for Emily’s extravagant wedding to a rich Italian businessman.
A Simple Favour did decent business relative to its outlay in 2018, grossing $97m worldwide on a $20m budget. Paul Feig directed the darkly comic mystery about a vlogger (Anna Kendrick) who investigates the disappearance of her elegant (and enigmatic) new best friend (Blake Lively).
A sequel has been in development for years; Simon Brew spoke to Feig about the first film on the Film Stories podcast in 2018 and discussed the sequel when Feig was our guest at a live podcast recording in 2022.
We also have a synopsis for the sequel, per Deadline:
In Part Two, we see the return of Stephanie Smothers (Anna Kendrick) and Emily Nelson (Blake Lively) as they head to the beautiful island of Capri, Italy, for Emily’s extravagant wedding to a rich Italian businessman.
- 3/28/2024
- by Jake Godfrey
- Film Stories
Can you feel the Kenergy? Ryan Gosling has launched a new production company, and he’s wasted no time in signing that company to a first-look film deal with Amazon MGM Studios.
Gosling has launched General Admission, which he will run alongside Jessie Henderson, a former executive with Apple Original Films over the last three years. Their company will produce movies across all genres for both theaters and streaming that are “fun, transportive entertainment for everyone.”
Under the deal with Amazon MGM, the studio will have the first look on any narrative features General Admission produces, some of which will star Gosling. It’s a three-year first look deal, and Amazon MGM says the movies will be made for both theatrical and streaming.
Gosling, who is riding high off his Oscar nomination for “Barbie” and his show-stopping performance of “I’m Just Ken” on the Oscars stage, is already a...
Gosling has launched General Admission, which he will run alongside Jessie Henderson, a former executive with Apple Original Films over the last three years. Their company will produce movies across all genres for both theaters and streaming that are “fun, transportive entertainment for everyone.”
Under the deal with Amazon MGM, the studio will have the first look on any narrative features General Admission produces, some of which will star Gosling. It’s a three-year first look deal, and Amazon MGM says the movies will be made for both theatrical and streaming.
Gosling, who is riding high off his Oscar nomination for “Barbie” and his show-stopping performance of “I’m Just Ken” on the Oscars stage, is already a...
- 3/27/2024
- by Brian Welk
- Indiewire
Ryan Gosling is continuing a stellar 2024 with the launch of a new production banner.
Gosling will run General Admission with longtime film executive Jessie Henderson, with the duo signing a three-year, first-look film deal with Amazon MGM Studios. Under the pact, Amazon will have a first look at General Admission narrative features, some of which Gosling will star in, that are intended for both theatrical and streaming.
“I feel incredibly fortunate to have partners like Jessie Henderson and Courtenay Valenti in this endeavor,” said Gosling in a statement. “The gift of partnering with Jessie Henderson in General Admission is one that cannot be understated. I’m a huge fan of Jessie’s and the films she’s produced and developed. Her unique experience, intuition, work ethic, relationships, as well as the impressive road she’s paved for herself in both comedy and drama have led to a unique ability to...
Gosling will run General Admission with longtime film executive Jessie Henderson, with the duo signing a three-year, first-look film deal with Amazon MGM Studios. Under the pact, Amazon will have a first look at General Admission narrative features, some of which Gosling will star in, that are intended for both theatrical and streaming.
“I feel incredibly fortunate to have partners like Jessie Henderson and Courtenay Valenti in this endeavor,” said Gosling in a statement. “The gift of partnering with Jessie Henderson in General Admission is one that cannot be understated. I’m a huge fan of Jessie’s and the films she’s produced and developed. Her unique experience, intuition, work ethic, relationships, as well as the impressive road she’s paved for herself in both comedy and drama have led to a unique ability to...
- 3/27/2024
- by Mia Galuppo and Aaron Couch
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Ryan Gosling and Apple Original Films exec Jessie Henderson have launched General Admission, a production company with the objective to collaborate with world class filmmakers to create bold theatrical and streaming events within all genres.
In introducing their new venture, the duo has signed a three-year first-look film deal with Amazon MGM Studios. Under the pact, Amazon MGM Studios will have a first look on narrative features, some of which Gosling will star in, that General Admission intends to produce for both theatrical and streaming.
“We are so thrilled that Ryan Gosling and Jessie Henderson will make Amazon MGM Studios the home of their new company, General Admission,” said Amazon MGM Studios head of film, streaming and theatrical Courtenay Valenti. “As the name of their company conveys, these passionate and extraordinary filmmakers want to tell stories for audiences all over the world. Ryan Gosling is a truly singular artist who possesses boundless talent and creativity.
In introducing their new venture, the duo has signed a three-year first-look film deal with Amazon MGM Studios. Under the pact, Amazon MGM Studios will have a first look on narrative features, some of which Gosling will star in, that General Admission intends to produce for both theatrical and streaming.
“We are so thrilled that Ryan Gosling and Jessie Henderson will make Amazon MGM Studios the home of their new company, General Admission,” said Amazon MGM Studios head of film, streaming and theatrical Courtenay Valenti. “As the name of their company conveys, these passionate and extraordinary filmmakers want to tell stories for audiences all over the world. Ryan Gosling is a truly singular artist who possesses boundless talent and creativity.
- 3/27/2024
- by Katcy Stephan
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Big news here. Hot off his Best Supporting Actor Oscar nomination for Barbie, Ryan Gosling is launching a new production company General Admission with former Apple Original Films executive Jessie Henderson. In launching the new venture, the duo have inked a three-year first-look film deal at Amazon MGM Studios.
General Admission’s objective will be to collaborate with world class filmmakers to create bold theatrical and streaming events within all genres – fun, transportive entertainment for everyone. Under the pact, Amazon MGM Studios will have a first look on narrative features–some of which Gosling will star in–that General Admission intends to produce for both theatrical and streaming.
“We are so thrilled that Ryan Gosling and Jessie Henderson will make Amazon MGM Studios the home of their new company, General Admission,” said Courtenay Valenti, head of film, streaming, and theatrical at Amazon MGM Studios. “ As the name of their company conveys,...
General Admission’s objective will be to collaborate with world class filmmakers to create bold theatrical and streaming events within all genres – fun, transportive entertainment for everyone. Under the pact, Amazon MGM Studios will have a first look on narrative features–some of which Gosling will star in–that General Admission intends to produce for both theatrical and streaming.
“We are so thrilled that Ryan Gosling and Jessie Henderson will make Amazon MGM Studios the home of their new company, General Admission,” said Courtenay Valenti, head of film, streaming, and theatrical at Amazon MGM Studios. “ As the name of their company conveys,...
- 3/27/2024
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick star in ‘A Simple Favor’ (Photo Credit: Lionsgate)
It’s officially official. Not only is there A Simple Favor sequel in the works, but Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively are confirmed to return as Stephanie and Emily. Feel free to squeal now, as Henry Golding, Andrew Rannells, Bashir Salahuddin, Joshua Satine, Ian Ho, and Kelly McCormack are also on board to reprise their roles in A Simple Favor 2.
“In the film, we see the return of Stephanie Smothers (Anna Kendrick) and Emily Nelson (Blake Lively) as they head to the beautiful island of Capri, Italy, for Emily’s extravagant wedding to a rich Italian businessman,” reads Amazon MGM Studios’ synopsis. “Along with the glamorous guests, expect murder and betrayal to RSVP for a wedding with more twists and turns than the road from the Marina Grande to the Capri town square.”
Paul Feig will return...
It’s officially official. Not only is there A Simple Favor sequel in the works, but Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively are confirmed to return as Stephanie and Emily. Feel free to squeal now, as Henry Golding, Andrew Rannells, Bashir Salahuddin, Joshua Satine, Ian Ho, and Kelly McCormack are also on board to reprise their roles in A Simple Favor 2.
“In the film, we see the return of Stephanie Smothers (Anna Kendrick) and Emily Nelson (Blake Lively) as they head to the beautiful island of Capri, Italy, for Emily’s extravagant wedding to a rich Italian businessman,” reads Amazon MGM Studios’ synopsis. “Along with the glamorous guests, expect murder and betrayal to RSVP for a wedding with more twists and turns than the road from the Marina Grande to the Capri town square.”
Paul Feig will return...
- 3/27/2024
- by Rebecca Murray
- Showbiz Junkies
Today, Amazon MGM Studios announced that Anna Kendrick, Blake Lively, Henry Golding, Andrew Rannells, Bashir Salahuddin, Joshua Satine, Ian Ho, and Kelly McCormack are set to reprise their roles in A Simple Favor 2, with Paul Feig returning to direct.
The sequel is a co-production with Lionsgate and follows the studio’s 2018 release of A Simple Favor, which was a critical and commercial success. It earned more than $97 million at the worldwide box office and achieved Certified Fresh status on Rotten Tomatoes.
The script for A Simple Favor 2, based on characters by Darcy Bell, was written by Jessica Sharzer, who wrote the first film, with revisions by Laeta Kalogridis and Paul Feig.
Feigco Entertainment’s Paul Feig and Laura Fischer are producing A Simple Favor 2, with Jessica Sharzer executive producing.
In the new movie, we see the return of Stephanie Smothers (Anna Kendrick) and Emily Nelson (Blake Lively) as they head...
The sequel is a co-production with Lionsgate and follows the studio’s 2018 release of A Simple Favor, which was a critical and commercial success. It earned more than $97 million at the worldwide box office and achieved Certified Fresh status on Rotten Tomatoes.
The script for A Simple Favor 2, based on characters by Darcy Bell, was written by Jessica Sharzer, who wrote the first film, with revisions by Laeta Kalogridis and Paul Feig.
Feigco Entertainment’s Paul Feig and Laura Fischer are producing A Simple Favor 2, with Jessica Sharzer executive producing.
In the new movie, we see the return of Stephanie Smothers (Anna Kendrick) and Emily Nelson (Blake Lively) as they head...
- 3/27/2024
- by Mirko Parlevliet
- Vital Thrills
Back in 2018, Bridesmaids and Ghostbusters director Paul Feig brought us the mystery A Simple Favor, which starred Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick in the story of “mommy blogger Stephanie (Kendrick), who befriends Emily (Lively), a secretive upper-class woman who has a child at the same elementary school. When Emily goes missing, Stephanie takes it upon herself to investigate.” A couple years ago, we heard that Amazon MGM Studios and Lionsgate were teaming up to produce a sequel to A Simple Favor… and now The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed that Feig, Lively, and Kendrick are all coming back for A Simple Favor 2. Filming is expected to begin this spring, and the film is heading for a streaming release on Prime Video.
Jessica Sharzer, who wrote the screenplay for the first film (which was based on the 2017 novel of the same name by author Darcey Bell), returned to write the sequel, with...
Jessica Sharzer, who wrote the screenplay for the first film (which was based on the 2017 novel of the same name by author Darcey Bell), returned to write the sequel, with...
- 3/27/2024
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
Amazon has concocted a relatively simple plan for A Simple Favor 2: It’s skipping theaters and going straight to Prime Video.
The streamer announced Wednesday that it has formally ordered a sequel to the 2018 comedic caper that starred Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick, both of whom are returning for the follow-up. Shooting is expected to commence this spring ahead of a likely 2025 release on Prime Video.
More from TVLineRyan Reynolds and Blake Lively Cheer Wrexham's (Surprising?) Top Goalscorer - Exclusive Sneak PeekAnna Kendrick Hands Off Love Life to William Jackson Harper in Season 2 Teaser - Plus, Get Premiere DateLove...
The streamer announced Wednesday that it has formally ordered a sequel to the 2018 comedic caper that starred Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick, both of whom are returning for the follow-up. Shooting is expected to commence this spring ahead of a likely 2025 release on Prime Video.
More from TVLineRyan Reynolds and Blake Lively Cheer Wrexham's (Surprising?) Top Goalscorer - Exclusive Sneak PeekAnna Kendrick Hands Off Love Life to William Jackson Harper in Season 2 Teaser - Plus, Get Premiere DateLove...
- 3/27/2024
- by Michael Ausiello
- TVLine.com
A Simple Favor, the 2018 hit dark comedy, is officially getting a sequel!
Amazong MGM Studios announced that the project has been greenlit and will begin production sometime in the spring. Paul Feig will return to direct with Jessica Sharzer penning the second film. She also wrote the first movie!
The film will be released via Prime Video, and the cast has also been confirmed.
Keep reading to see which stars are returning from the first movie…...
Amazong MGM Studios announced that the project has been greenlit and will begin production sometime in the spring. Paul Feig will return to direct with Jessica Sharzer penning the second film. She also wrote the first movie!
The film will be released via Prime Video, and the cast has also been confirmed.
Keep reading to see which stars are returning from the first movie…...
- 3/27/2024
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
Lionsgate and Amazon Studios have announced that a sequel to the 2018 hit mystery-comedy film “A Simple Favor” is coming. The sequel will bring back stars Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively, as well as Paul Feig to direct.
Based on the 2017 novel of the same name, “A Simple Favor” told the story of a widowed single mother named Stephanie, played by Kendrick. Working as a vlogger in Connecticut, she looks enviously upon her best friend, Emily (Lively). Emily has a successful career, a loving family and a glamorous lifestyle. However, things turn awry when Emily mysteriously disappears one day, causing Stephanie to launch her own investigation into her friend’s past, finding more than a few surprises along the way.
The sequel will see the return of Stephanie and Emily as they head to the beautiful island of Capri, Italy, for Emily’s extravagant wedding to a rich Italian businessman. Along with the glamorous guests,...
Based on the 2017 novel of the same name, “A Simple Favor” told the story of a widowed single mother named Stephanie, played by Kendrick. Working as a vlogger in Connecticut, she looks enviously upon her best friend, Emily (Lively). Emily has a successful career, a loving family and a glamorous lifestyle. However, things turn awry when Emily mysteriously disappears one day, causing Stephanie to launch her own investigation into her friend’s past, finding more than a few surprises along the way.
The sequel will see the return of Stephanie and Emily as they head to the beautiful island of Capri, Italy, for Emily’s extravagant wedding to a rich Italian businessman. Along with the glamorous guests,...
- 3/27/2024
- by Carson Burton and Katcy Stephan
- Variety Film + TV
Deadline already told you two years ago that A Simple Favor 2 was happening with Paul Feig back in the director’s chair and Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick starring, but today Amazon MGM Studios has made it official that the movie is a go and with the original cast members returning, read Henry Golding, Andrew Rannells, Bashir Salahuddin, Joshua Satine, Ian Ho, and Kelly McCormack.
Lionsgate is co-producing the sequel to the 2018 black comedy which minted $97M off a $20M budget. Cameras roll this spring. A streaming release on Prime Video in 240 countries is planned.
In part two, we see the return of Stephanie Smothers (Kendrick) and Emily Nelson (Lively) as they head to the beautiful island of Capri, Italy, for Emily’s extravagant wedding to a rich Italian businessman. Along with the glamorous guests, expect murder and betrayal to RSVP for a wedding with more twists and turns than...
Lionsgate is co-producing the sequel to the 2018 black comedy which minted $97M off a $20M budget. Cameras roll this spring. A streaming release on Prime Video in 240 countries is planned.
In part two, we see the return of Stephanie Smothers (Kendrick) and Emily Nelson (Lively) as they head to the beautiful island of Capri, Italy, for Emily’s extravagant wedding to a rich Italian businessman. Along with the glamorous guests, expect murder and betrayal to RSVP for a wedding with more twists and turns than...
- 3/27/2024
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
It’s time to raise an Aviation gin martini to toast Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively returning for another glamorous mystery with A Simple Favor 2 from director Paul Feig.
Amazon MGM Studios announced Wednesday that the sequel movie, which is a co-production with Lionsgate, is looking to begin shooting this spring and will stream on Prime Video. Feig is back to helm the follow-up to his 2018 dark comedy, with Henry Golding, Andrew Rannells, Bashir Salahuddin, Joshua Satine, Ian Ho and Kelly McCormack all reprising their roles from the first feature.
Jessica Sharzer, who penned the initial movie, returned to write the sequel, with Feig and Laeta Kalogridis also contributing to the script. Sharzer’s screenplay for the original film was based on the 2017 novel of the same name by author Darcey Bell.
A Simple Favor 2 sees Stephanie Smothers (Kendrick) and Emily Nelson (Lively) heading to the island of Capri for Emily’s lavish wedding.
Amazon MGM Studios announced Wednesday that the sequel movie, which is a co-production with Lionsgate, is looking to begin shooting this spring and will stream on Prime Video. Feig is back to helm the follow-up to his 2018 dark comedy, with Henry Golding, Andrew Rannells, Bashir Salahuddin, Joshua Satine, Ian Ho and Kelly McCormack all reprising their roles from the first feature.
Jessica Sharzer, who penned the initial movie, returned to write the sequel, with Feig and Laeta Kalogridis also contributing to the script. Sharzer’s screenplay for the original film was based on the 2017 novel of the same name by author Darcey Bell.
A Simple Favor 2 sees Stephanie Smothers (Kendrick) and Emily Nelson (Lively) heading to the island of Capri for Emily’s lavish wedding.
- 3/27/2024
- by Ryan Gajewski
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Ryan Gosling and producer Jessie Henderson have launched General Admission with a three-year, first-look film deal at Amazon MGM Studios.
The co-founders said the production company will collaborate with “world-class filmmakers to create bold theatrical and streaming events within all genres – fun, transportive entertainment for everyone”.
Under the pact with Amazon MGM Studios General Admission will produce features for theatrical and streaming, some of which Gosling will star in.
Gosling earned a supporting actor Oscar nomination this year for Barbie in addition to two prior lead actor nods for La La Land and Half Nelson.
Among his feature credits are Drive,...
The co-founders said the production company will collaborate with “world-class filmmakers to create bold theatrical and streaming events within all genres – fun, transportive entertainment for everyone”.
Under the pact with Amazon MGM Studios General Admission will produce features for theatrical and streaming, some of which Gosling will star in.
Gosling earned a supporting actor Oscar nomination this year for Barbie in addition to two prior lead actor nods for La La Land and Half Nelson.
Among his feature credits are Drive,...
- 3/27/2024
- ScreenDaily
It was a bit of a good news, bad news situation for Sony Pictures over the weekend. The good news is that "Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire," the latest entry in the long-running comedy/horror franchise, topped the box office with a $45 million haul. That was at the high end of expectations, which was certainly positive, and theaters could use the help right now. At the same time, the movie carries a $100 million budget — which was quite a bit higher than 2021's "Ghostbusters: Afterlife." And yet, at the end of the day, both movies opened to just about the same number domestically. This provides proof that this franchise has a pretty well-defined ceiling commercially, which likely limits what can be done going forward.
What's interesting is that the last three movies in the series all opened in an eerily similar range. 2016's female-led "Ghostbusters: Answer the Call" took in $46 million on its...
What's interesting is that the last three movies in the series all opened in an eerily similar range. 2016's female-led "Ghostbusters: Answer the Call" took in $46 million on its...
- 3/26/2024
- by Ryan Scott
- Slash Film
It's official: "Ghostbusters" is now a $1 billion franchise. Just shy of 40 years after the classic horror/comedy originally arrived in theaters back in 1984, the films have hit a major milestone at the box office thanks to the latest entry, "Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire." Thanks to the new film's opening weekend haul, the series has now ascended the ranks to become one of the relatively few franchises in cinema history that can claim to have made ten figures or more in ticket sales.
Director Gil Kenan's "Frozen Empire" opened to $45 million over the weekend domestically, putting it on top of the charts in its debut. The Sony Pictures release also pulled in $16 million internationally, giving the film a $61 million start to its theatrical run. Looking at the bigger picture, that was enough to push the franchise past the $1 billion mark. The films have collectively grossed $1.005 billion through the years across four decades and five films.
Director Gil Kenan's "Frozen Empire" opened to $45 million over the weekend domestically, putting it on top of the charts in its debut. The Sony Pictures release also pulled in $16 million internationally, giving the film a $61 million start to its theatrical run. Looking at the bigger picture, that was enough to push the franchise past the $1 billion mark. The films have collectively grossed $1.005 billion through the years across four decades and five films.
- 3/26/2024
- by Ryan Scott
- Slash Film
The biographical documentary is a genre that lends itself to a reliable storytelling formula. First, we look back on the origins of the subject; we are introduced to some of the key figures that helped them along the way; we are shown the beginning of their career all the way to the end, and are then left to contemplate their legacy.
Due to the predictability of this format, these documentaries can often come off as by-the-numbers, taking us on a telegraphed emotional journey intended as a crowdpleaser. But every once in a while, there’s a subject who is so unique that their story elevates the formula. Allee Willis is one such subject, with a life story that’s energetic, colorful and invigorating to witness. Director Alexis Manya Spraic crafts a documentary that strives to be just as fascinating as its subject.
The World According to Allee Willis, which premiered at SXSW earlier this month,...
Due to the predictability of this format, these documentaries can often come off as by-the-numbers, taking us on a telegraphed emotional journey intended as a crowdpleaser. But every once in a while, there’s a subject who is so unique that their story elevates the formula. Allee Willis is one such subject, with a life story that’s energetic, colorful and invigorating to witness. Director Alexis Manya Spraic crafts a documentary that strives to be just as fascinating as its subject.
The World According to Allee Willis, which premiered at SXSW earlier this month,...
- 3/25/2024
- by Jourdain Searles
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The 2016 Ghostbusters might be one of the most flames major productions of this century, with the trailer quickly becoming the most disliked on YouTube. There were a couple of camps here. One was targeted as being misogynistic, taking personal affront that their beloved characters had been replaced by women. While another is that there just didn’t seem like a point to it all. Why bother if you don’t have the original Ghosbusters? Well, one late recruit — Ernie Hudson, who played Winston Zeddemore — has some thoughts on the matter.
As Ernie Hudson told The Independent, it seemed like a waste to make the Ghostbusters back in 2016, saying, “Look, I’m a fan of [director] Paul Feig so I have nothing negative about him to say. Other than: I don’t quite understand why you do a reboot, you know what I mean? Just make another movie.”
Hudson did want...
As Ernie Hudson told The Independent, it seemed like a waste to make the Ghostbusters back in 2016, saying, “Look, I’m a fan of [director] Paul Feig so I have nothing negative about him to say. Other than: I don’t quite understand why you do a reboot, you know what I mean? Just make another movie.”
Hudson did want...
- 3/25/2024
- by Mathew Plale
- JoBlo.com
The latest Ghostbusters movie, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, has arrived, giving audiences another chance to see the original ‘busters, Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, and Ernie Hudson, don their paranormal-hunting jumpsuits once again. Now, in a new interview, Hudson has praised Sony for having “stepped up” with the new film, elevating it beyond some of its recent predecessors.
Specifically, Hudson referred to the Ghostbusters reboot — which re-launched the franchise in 2016 — as “disappointing.” Speaking to The Independent, he praised the film’s director Paul Feig, and described its all-female leading cast as “brilliantly funny on their own,” but overall felt that the film lacked intention.
“Other than: I don’t quite understand why you do a reboot, you know what I mean? Just make another movie,” he said. “Fans were really invested in the story and the characters and I think it was disappointing. I enjoyed the movie but I think it wasn...
Specifically, Hudson referred to the Ghostbusters reboot — which re-launched the franchise in 2016 — as “disappointing.” Speaking to The Independent, he praised the film’s director Paul Feig, and described its all-female leading cast as “brilliantly funny on their own,” but overall felt that the film lacked intention.
“Other than: I don’t quite understand why you do a reboot, you know what I mean? Just make another movie,” he said. “Fans were really invested in the story and the characters and I think it was disappointing. I enjoyed the movie but I think it wasn...
- 3/25/2024
- by Jo Vito
- Consequence - Film News
Ernie Hudson, the 78-year-old actor who has appeared in all five of the “Ghostbusters” movies and several “Ghostbusters” video games, spoke with The Independent about the franchise in the lead-up to “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire.”
The role of Winston Zeddmore was originally offered to Eddie Murphy, and when that didn’t happen, his character’s screen time was greatly reduced. As such, Hudson’s pay was much smaller than that of the other three Ghostbusters, Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, and Harold Ramis (the latter two also wrote the script). He also did not appear on any of the posters.
“It’s very tempting, sometimes, to blame anything that doesn’t work in your life on racism. But there are a lot of things that play into it. It’s not quite that simple,” he explained. “We can say it’s a racial thing, but I think if Eddie Murphy had played the role I played,...
The role of Winston Zeddmore was originally offered to Eddie Murphy, and when that didn’t happen, his character’s screen time was greatly reduced. As such, Hudson’s pay was much smaller than that of the other three Ghostbusters, Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, and Harold Ramis (the latter two also wrote the script). He also did not appear on any of the posters.
“It’s very tempting, sometimes, to blame anything that doesn’t work in your life on racism. But there are a lot of things that play into it. It’s not quite that simple,” he explained. “We can say it’s a racial thing, but I think if Eddie Murphy had played the role I played,...
- 3/25/2024
- by Jordan Hoffman
- Gold Derby
Ernie Hudson was "disappointed" with the female-led reboot of 'Ghostbusters'.The 78-year-old actor made a cameo appearance in Paul Feig's movie that featured Melissa McCarthy, Kristen Wiig, Kate McKinnon and Leslie Jones in the main roles but acknowledged that the picture didn't strike a chord with fans of the franchise.Ernie told The Independent newspaper: "Fans were really invested in the story and the characters, and I think it was disappointing. I enjoyed the movie. But I think it wasn't what fans were hoping for."The star admits that he was puzzled by Feig's decision to reboot the supernatural franchise and thinks he should have made a continuation from the original films – which has subsequently happened with flicks like 'Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire'.Ernie – who stars as Dr. Winston Zeddemore in the series – said: "Look, I'm a fan of Paul Feig, so I have nothing negative about him to say.
- 3/25/2024
- by Joe Graber
- Bang Showbiz
Ghostbusters star Ernie Hudson is opening up about the beloved franchise, the female-led reboot and the inequitable treatment he received during the ’80s on the original films.
Hudson has appeared in five Ghostbusters films, starting with 1984’s original, the 1989 sequel, 2021’s Ghostbusters: Afterlife and Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, which hit theaters Friday. The actor also appeared in the female-led Ghostbusters reboot in 2016, albeit playing a different character.
His role as Winston Zeddemore was first offered to Eddie Murphy before Hudson came on board. Reportedly, the role was reduced significantly before filming began (Winston doesn’t even show up until about halfway through the film). The character also wasn’t featured on the theatrical poster. But Hudson says it’s more complicated than chalking it up to racism alone.
“You know, being a person of African descent anywhere in the world, we’re all just learning how to live together and get...
Hudson has appeared in five Ghostbusters films, starting with 1984’s original, the 1989 sequel, 2021’s Ghostbusters: Afterlife and Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, which hit theaters Friday. The actor also appeared in the female-led Ghostbusters reboot in 2016, albeit playing a different character.
His role as Winston Zeddemore was first offered to Eddie Murphy before Hudson came on board. Reportedly, the role was reduced significantly before filming began (Winston doesn’t even show up until about halfway through the film). The character also wasn’t featured on the theatrical poster. But Hudson says it’s more complicated than chalking it up to racism alone.
“You know, being a person of African descent anywhere in the world, we’re all just learning how to live together and get...
- 3/25/2024
- by Kimberly Nordyke
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
In an interview with The Independent, original Ghostbuster Ernie Hudson said he was disappointed with the 2016 all-female reboot of the franchise.
While he allowed that the 2016 cast members — Kristen Wiig, Melissa McCarthy, Kate McKinnon, and Leslie Jones — were all “brilliantly funny on their own,” he didn’t think the finished product resonated with fans.
“Fans were really invested in the story and the characters, and I think it was disappointing,” Hudson said. “I enjoyed the movie. But I think it wasn’t what fans were hoping for.”
Hudson had a brief cameo in the film as an unrelated character. But he said that his main issue with the film was rebooting an existing franchise.
“Look, I’m a fan of (2016 director) Paul Feig, so I have nothing negative about him to say,” he said. “Other than: I don’t quite understand why you do a reboot, you know what I mean?...
While he allowed that the 2016 cast members — Kristen Wiig, Melissa McCarthy, Kate McKinnon, and Leslie Jones — were all “brilliantly funny on their own,” he didn’t think the finished product resonated with fans.
“Fans were really invested in the story and the characters, and I think it was disappointing,” Hudson said. “I enjoyed the movie. But I think it wasn’t what fans were hoping for.”
Hudson had a brief cameo in the film as an unrelated character. But he said that his main issue with the film was rebooting an existing franchise.
“Look, I’m a fan of (2016 director) Paul Feig, so I have nothing negative about him to say,” he said. “Other than: I don’t quite understand why you do a reboot, you know what I mean?...
- 3/24/2024
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
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