This kids’ adventure story with a faux medievalist vibe has a cute conceit and some fun sequences but the inexperience of the cast and director shows
If you’ve ever tried to make a home movie with young children, you quickly come to appreciate how hard it is to get the little monsters to remember their lines and hit their marks, let alone give good performances. It’s an education in the difference between good and bad direction, the raw, primary-teacher skill in herding cats while also managing tone, quality control and all that storytelling stuff. Just try it for yourself and you’ll realise just how good a job directors such as Garth Jennings or Taika Waititi did with child-led films like Son of Rambow or Hunt for the Wilderpeople.
At the very least, this awareness will help you be a bit more forgiving of a film like Riddle of Fire.
If you’ve ever tried to make a home movie with young children, you quickly come to appreciate how hard it is to get the little monsters to remember their lines and hit their marks, let alone give good performances. It’s an education in the difference between good and bad direction, the raw, primary-teacher skill in herding cats while also managing tone, quality control and all that storytelling stuff. Just try it for yourself and you’ll realise just how good a job directors such as Garth Jennings or Taika Waititi did with child-led films like Son of Rambow or Hunt for the Wilderpeople.
At the very least, this awareness will help you be a bit more forgiving of a film like Riddle of Fire.
- 4/29/2024
- by Leslie Felperin
- The Guardian - Film News
Seattle Seahawks Super Bowl Champ Marshawn Lynch (Bottoms), Mustafa Shakir, Cam Gigandet, André Eriksen, and Lio Tipton are boarding 87North and Universal’s original action movie With Love.
They join previously cast Oscar winner winners Ke Huy Quan and Ariana DeBose, as well as Daniel Wu in the pic set for release on Feb. 7, 2025. For Quan, it’s his first major leading man role post Everything, Everywhere All at Once.
The movie hails from vet stunt and fight coordinator Jonathan Eusebio who is making his feature directorial debut. Eusebio’s credits include Black Panther, The Avengers, the John Wick films, The Matrix Resurrections, Violent Night, Deadpool 2, The Fate of the Furious, Doctor Strange, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, The Wolverine, The Bourne Legacy and 87North’s upcoming summer kickoff title,...
They join previously cast Oscar winner winners Ke Huy Quan and Ariana DeBose, as well as Daniel Wu in the pic set for release on Feb. 7, 2025. For Quan, it’s his first major leading man role post Everything, Everywhere All at Once.
The movie hails from vet stunt and fight coordinator Jonathan Eusebio who is making his feature directorial debut. Eusebio’s credits include Black Panther, The Avengers, the John Wick films, The Matrix Resurrections, Violent Night, Deadpool 2, The Fate of the Furious, Doctor Strange, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, The Wolverine, The Bourne Legacy and 87North’s upcoming summer kickoff title,...
- 4/19/2024
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Marshawn Lynch, Mustafa Shakir, Cam Gigandet, André Eriksen and Lio Tipton will join Ke Huy Quan in With Love for Universal Pictures.
Ariana DeBose and Daniel Wu also star in the action film from 87North, the stunt-centric banner behind Nobody, Violent Night and the upcoming feature The Fall Guy, starring Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt.
Lynch most recently appeared in Bottoms and will next be seen in Amazon MGM’s The Pickup. Shakir is best known for his roles in The Deuce, Luke Cage, Cowboy Bebop and Emancipation.
Gigandet’s movie credits include Universal’s Violent Night for Universal and Amazon’s Without Remorse. Eriksen’s latest credit is also Violent Night, directed by Tommy Wirkola. Tipton starred opposite Jake Lacy and Colin Hanks in the Peacock limited series A Friend of the Family.
Veteran stunt coordinator and fight coordinator Jonathan Eusebio makes his directorial debut with the action movie.
Ariana DeBose and Daniel Wu also star in the action film from 87North, the stunt-centric banner behind Nobody, Violent Night and the upcoming feature The Fall Guy, starring Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt.
Lynch most recently appeared in Bottoms and will next be seen in Amazon MGM’s The Pickup. Shakir is best known for his roles in The Deuce, Luke Cage, Cowboy Bebop and Emancipation.
Gigandet’s movie credits include Universal’s Violent Night for Universal and Amazon’s Without Remorse. Eriksen’s latest credit is also Violent Night, directed by Tommy Wirkola. Tipton starred opposite Jake Lacy and Colin Hanks in the Peacock limited series A Friend of the Family.
Veteran stunt coordinator and fight coordinator Jonathan Eusebio makes his directorial debut with the action movie.
- 4/19/2024
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Long before she was a movie star, a teenage Nicole Kidman appeared in the early-’80s action comedy “BMX Bandits,” a rowdy Australian kidpic full of bicycle stunts and Scooby-Doo crime-stopping shenanigans. It’s too early to say whether any of the adorable young leads in “Riddle of Fire” will go on to have successful acting careers. Still, it’s amusing to think that two decades into the 21st century, writer-director Weston Razooli has taken inspiration from such questionable classics, along with vintage live-action Disney fare — like “Escape from Witch Mountain” and the Herbie movies, which the studio sold in puffy white VHS cases — for his own retro-spirited debut.
Spun from equal parts imagination and nostalgia, “Riddle of Fire” comes as close as any film since “Spy Kids” or “Kisses” to mirroring the kind of cinematic adventures we made in our heads as kids. Razooli remembers how it feels to...
Spun from equal parts imagination and nostalgia, “Riddle of Fire” comes as close as any film since “Spy Kids” or “Kisses” to mirroring the kind of cinematic adventures we made in our heads as kids. Razooli remembers how it feels to...
- 3/25/2024
- by Peter Debruge
- Variety Film + TV
Plot: Three mischievous children embark on a woodland odyssey when their mother sends them on an errand.
Review: Magical realism is a tough challenge for even the most skilled of filmmakers. There’s a fine line to walk in order to anchor anything fantastical to a layer of reality. Writer/Director Weston Razooli makes the choice to set the film in modern day, while avoiding most modern technology. Even the leads have a timelessness to them that could put this film in any decade going back a century. All of these elements add up to make Riddle of Fire one of the more interesting independent features of the year.
Taking place in the mountains of Wyoming, Riddle of Fire follows three children Hazel, Alice, and Jodie as they go on an adventure. They’re on a mission to get the ingredients for a blueberry pie, to make their ailing mother feel better.
Review: Magical realism is a tough challenge for even the most skilled of filmmakers. There’s a fine line to walk in order to anchor anything fantastical to a layer of reality. Writer/Director Weston Razooli makes the choice to set the film in modern day, while avoiding most modern technology. Even the leads have a timelessness to them that could put this film in any decade going back a century. All of these elements add up to make Riddle of Fire one of the more interesting independent features of the year.
Taking place in the mountains of Wyoming, Riddle of Fire follows three children Hazel, Alice, and Jodie as they go on an adventure. They’re on a mission to get the ingredients for a blueberry pie, to make their ailing mother feel better.
- 3/22/2024
- by Tyler Nichols
- JoBlo.com
A beguiling “neo-fairy tale” that effectively splits the difference between the high fantasy of “Legend” and the lo-fi drift of “L for Leisure,” Weston Razooli’s “Riddle of Fire” tries to capture the magic inherent to even modern childhood by stretching a simple fetch quest into an epic adventure. Perhaps a little too epic, it turns out.
Despite kicking off with a heist sequence that crystallizes the miscreant fun of a late summer afternoon and tees up a Tolkien-worthy plot in the clearest possible terms, Razooli’s increasingly languorous debut soon proves to be easier to appreciate than it is to enjoy. It’s a light and singular concoction of sick-ass vibes in dire need of something — anything — to weigh them down. I couldn’t wait for it to end, but that’s partially because I’m already so impatient to see what Razooli does next.
Set in rural Wyoming...
Despite kicking off with a heist sequence that crystallizes the miscreant fun of a late summer afternoon and tees up a Tolkien-worthy plot in the clearest possible terms, Razooli’s increasingly languorous debut soon proves to be easier to appreciate than it is to enjoy. It’s a light and singular concoction of sick-ass vibes in dire need of something — anything — to weigh them down. I couldn’t wait for it to end, but that’s partially because I’m already so impatient to see what Razooli does next.
Set in rural Wyoming...
- 3/21/2024
- by David Ehrlich
- Indiewire
Yellow Veil Pictures and Vinegar Syndrome have released the hypnotic and beautifully meditative trailer for Riddle of Fire, a movie that was included in the lineup at last year’s Fantastic Fest and Midnight Madness at TIFF. The trailer plays like a fever dream as writer and director Weston Razooli takes you on a unique journey through the eyes of children as they make their way through the forest and encounter many threatening figures, which plays out like a dark fairy tale.
The official synopsis reads,
“This neo-fairytale set in Wyoming, USA follows three mischievous children as they embark on an odyssey when their mother asks them to run an errand. On the hunt to obtain her favourite blueberry pie, the children are kidnapped by poachers, battle a witch, outwit a huntsman, befriend a fairy, and bond together to become best friends forever.”
Skyler Peters, Phoebe Ferro, Charlie Stover and...
The official synopsis reads,
“This neo-fairytale set in Wyoming, USA follows three mischievous children as they embark on an odyssey when their mother asks them to run an errand. On the hunt to obtain her favourite blueberry pie, the children are kidnapped by poachers, battle a witch, outwit a huntsman, befriend a fairy, and bond together to become best friends forever.”
Skyler Peters, Phoebe Ferro, Charlie Stover and...
- 3/1/2024
- by EJ Tangonan
- JoBlo.com
"I'm gonna get your kids!" Yellow Veil Pictures has launched the full official trailer for an indie gem titled Riddle of Fire, marking the feature directorial debut of filmmaker Weston Razooli. This first premiered at last year's Cannes Film Festival, with stops at tons of other festivals. Now set for a US theatrical release this March. It's about a trio of kids on an adventure. Here's the Fantastic Fest one-liner intro: "Three children go on an epic quest to uncover the password for their TV, finding themselves in their own video game-like adventure in the real world." A neo-fairytale thriller shot in Wyoming, following three mischievous children as they embark on an odyssey when their mother asks them to run an errand to to get the TV password. On the hunt to obtain her favorite blueberry pie, the children are kidnapped by poachers, battle a witch, outwit a huntsman, befriend a fairy,...
- 2/12/2024
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
A selection at Cannes Directors Fortnight and TIFF Midnight Madness last year, Weston Razooli’s singular debut Riddle of Fire follows a group of mischievous children who embark on a woodland odyssey to deliver a pie, battle a witch, outwit a huntsman, befriend a fairy, and become best friends forever. Picked up by Yellow Veil and Vinegar Syndrome, the first trailer has now arrived for the 16mm-shot fantasy film, set for a theatrical release on March 22.
Ankit Jhunjhunwala said in his review, “Films with child protagonists present a unique tonal challenge. If overly saccharine whimsy can alienate an adult audience, having precocious kids delivering mannered performances can seem too stylized and divorced from reality––what, say, Wes Anderson has a skill for, many others do not possess. With his debut feature Riddle of Fire, director Weston Razooli tries locating the balance between extremes to uneven results. On paper, this is a kids’ fantasy,...
Ankit Jhunjhunwala said in his review, “Films with child protagonists present a unique tonal challenge. If overly saccharine whimsy can alienate an adult audience, having precocious kids delivering mannered performances can seem too stylized and divorced from reality––what, say, Wes Anderson has a skill for, many others do not possess. With his debut feature Riddle of Fire, director Weston Razooli tries locating the balance between extremes to uneven results. On paper, this is a kids’ fantasy,...
- 2/12/2024
- by Leonard Pearce
- The Film Stage
One of the surprise breakout hits of the 2023 film festival circuit, Weston Razooli’s directorial debut “Riddle of Fire” charmed audiences around the world by blending the aesthetics of classic family adventure movies with a modern midnight movie sensibility. After premiering in the Directors’ Fortnight section of the Cannes Film Festival, the film went on to close the Midnight Madness section of the Toronto International Film Festival and screen at Fantastic Fest. Now, thanks to Yellow Veil Pictures and the legendary boutique Blu-ray label Vinegar Syndrome, the film will receive a domestic theatrical release this spring.
The official synopsis for “Riddle of Fire” reads: “This neo-fairytale set in Wyoming, USA follows three mischievous children as they embark on an odyssey when their mother asks them to run an errand. On the hunt to obtain her favorite blueberry pie, the children are kidnapped by poachers, battle a witch, outwit a huntsman,...
The official synopsis for “Riddle of Fire” reads: “This neo-fairytale set in Wyoming, USA follows three mischievous children as they embark on an odyssey when their mother asks them to run an errand. On the hunt to obtain her favorite blueberry pie, the children are kidnapped by poachers, battle a witch, outwit a huntsman,...
- 2/12/2024
- by Christian Zilko
- Indiewire
Last Call for Istanbul is a romantic drama film directed by Gonenc Uyanik, from a screenplay by Nuran Evren Sit. The Netflix film revolves around two married people who have a chance to meet at the New York airport and because of that they spend an unforgettable night full of desire, temptation, and excitement in a city that never sleeps. Last Call for Istanbul stars Kivanç Tatlitug and Beren Saat in the lead roles of Mehmet and Serin. So, if you loved the Netflix film here are some similar movies you could watch next.
Before We Go Credit – RADiUS
Synopsis: Two strangers stuck in Manhattan for the night grow into each other’s most trusted confidants when an evening of unexpected adventure forces them to confront their fears and take control of their lives.
Before Sunrise (Max & Prime Video Add-On) Credit – Castle Rock Entertainment
Synopsis: Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy...
Before We Go Credit – RADiUS
Synopsis: Two strangers stuck in Manhattan for the night grow into each other’s most trusted confidants when an evening of unexpected adventure forces them to confront their fears and take control of their lives.
Before Sunrise (Max & Prime Video Add-On) Credit – Castle Rock Entertainment
Synopsis: Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy...
- 11/27/2023
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
Mister Smith Entertainment has clinched first key international sales on Weston Razooli’s “Riddle of Fire.”
Among major territories, Mister Smith has closed Japan (Klockworx), France (ASC Distribution) and Spain (Flamingo Films). Deals build on a co-u.S acquisition by Yellow Veil Pictures and Vinegar Syndrome, which plan a domestic theatrical bow in early 2024, releasing the film on 35mm.
“Riddle of Fire” has also been sold to Portugal (Leopardo Filmes), Greece (Odeon) and Femeway/The Film Group and Front Row Filmed Entertainment for the Middle East, Singapore (the Shaw Organization), ex-Yugoslavia (Blitz Film) and worldwide airlines and ships (Anuvu).
Razooli’s first feature made its debut in Cannes’ Directors’ Fortnight and its North American premiere as the Toronto Festival’s Midnight Madness closing-night film.
A highlight on Mister Smith’s AFM slate, “Riddle of Fire” has additional territories in negotiations, which Mse will attempt to close in Santa Monica.
Shot...
Among major territories, Mister Smith has closed Japan (Klockworx), France (ASC Distribution) and Spain (Flamingo Films). Deals build on a co-u.S acquisition by Yellow Veil Pictures and Vinegar Syndrome, which plan a domestic theatrical bow in early 2024, releasing the film on 35mm.
“Riddle of Fire” has also been sold to Portugal (Leopardo Filmes), Greece (Odeon) and Femeway/The Film Group and Front Row Filmed Entertainment for the Middle East, Singapore (the Shaw Organization), ex-Yugoslavia (Blitz Film) and worldwide airlines and ships (Anuvu).
Razooli’s first feature made its debut in Cannes’ Directors’ Fortnight and its North American premiere as the Toronto Festival’s Midnight Madness closing-night film.
A highlight on Mister Smith’s AFM slate, “Riddle of Fire” has additional territories in negotiations, which Mse will attempt to close in Santa Monica.
Shot...
- 11/1/2023
- by John Hopewell
- Variety Film + TV
If You Were the Last is a sci-fi romantic comedy film directed by Kristian Mercado, from a screenplay by Angela Bourassa. The Peacock original film revolves around two best friends adrift in a broken down space shuttle with no chance of rescue as they argue over whether they should stay friends or become something more in their remaining days. The film stars Anthony Mackie and Zoe Chao in leading roles with Natalie Morales and Geoff Stults starring in supporting roles. So, if you loved the sci-fi rom-com film here are some similar movies you could watch next.
Passengers (Starz & Prime Video Add-On) Credit – Sony Pictures
Synopsis: Jennifer Lawrence and Chris Pratt star in a high-stakes adventure about two passengers, Aurora and Jim, onboard a spaceship transporting them to a new life on another planet. The trip takes a deadly turn when their hibernation pods mysteriously wake them 90 years before they reach their destination.
Passengers (Starz & Prime Video Add-On) Credit – Sony Pictures
Synopsis: Jennifer Lawrence and Chris Pratt star in a high-stakes adventure about two passengers, Aurora and Jim, onboard a spaceship transporting them to a new life on another planet. The trip takes a deadly turn when their hibernation pods mysteriously wake them 90 years before they reach their destination.
- 10/24/2023
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
There’s nothing quite like a throwback film – whether it’s driven by nostalgia or executed as a creative exercise, it’s fun to see how creatives handle the material.
Weston Razooli’s Riddle of Fire has all of the hallmarks of a classic ’80s children adventure film, mixed with the quaintness of a British fairytale. This is evident from the film’s opening scene, which features ethereal folk music, heavily stylized cursive font, and fairytale language: “Are ye a knight or are ye a squire? Can ye solve the Riddle of Fire?”
Like the best examples from the ’80s, however, there’s a persistent undercurrent of peril as the child characters are repeatedly put in danger with antagonists who won’t hesitate to harm or even murder them. In short: think Goonies meets Adventures in Babysitting with a touch of The Princess Bride‘s aesthetic.
One of the great...
Weston Razooli’s Riddle of Fire has all of the hallmarks of a classic ’80s children adventure film, mixed with the quaintness of a British fairytale. This is evident from the film’s opening scene, which features ethereal folk music, heavily stylized cursive font, and fairytale language: “Are ye a knight or are ye a squire? Can ye solve the Riddle of Fire?”
Like the best examples from the ’80s, however, there’s a persistent undercurrent of peril as the child characters are repeatedly put in danger with antagonists who won’t hesitate to harm or even murder them. In short: think Goonies meets Adventures in Babysitting with a touch of The Princess Bride‘s aesthetic.
One of the great...
- 9/17/2023
- by Joe Lipsett
- bloody-disgusting.com
Match Me If You Can is a romantic comedy film directed by Marian Yeager. The rom-com film follows the story of a female computer nerd who is fed up with being single but when an online dating service rejects her by calling her “unmatchable”, she speaks out against the company and becomes a spokeswoman for all the frustrated singles out there. Match Me if You Can stars Georgina Reilly, Charlie Bodin, Wilson Bethel, and Brian George. So, if you loved Match Me If You Can here are some similar movies you can watch next.
Love, Guaranteed (Netflix) Credit – Netflix
Synopsis: To save her small law firm, earnest lawyer Susan (Rachael Leigh Cook) takes a high-paying case from Nick (Damon Wayans Jr.), a charming new client who wants to sue a dating website that guarantees love. But as the case heats up, so do Susan and Nick’s feelings for each other.
Love, Guaranteed (Netflix) Credit – Netflix
Synopsis: To save her small law firm, earnest lawyer Susan (Rachael Leigh Cook) takes a high-paying case from Nick (Damon Wayans Jr.), a charming new client who wants to sue a dating website that guarantees love. But as the case heats up, so do Susan and Nick’s feelings for each other.
- 8/16/2023
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
"The prince of the mountain forever grants to those with hearts rich." An early festival promo trailer is out for an indie genre film titled Riddle of Fire, marking the feature directorial debut of filmmaker Weston Razooli. This originally premiered in the Directors' Fortnight sidebar of the 2023 Cannes Film Festival, and it's now set to play at the big three genre fests this fall: Toronto, Fantastic Fest, and the Sitges Film Festival in Spain. It's about some kids on an adventure. Here's the Fantastic Fest one-liner intro: "Three children go on an epic quest to uncover the password for their TV, finding themselves in their own video game-like adventure in the real world." Over at TIFF, they also describe it as: "Three rascal children run afoul of an enigmatic coven in Weston Razooli’s whimsical neo-fairytale, which evokes a menagerie of esoteric genres and dreamy cult-film vibes." This stars Lio Tipton,...
- 8/16/2023
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
Yellow Veil Pictures and Vinegar Syndrome announced have co-acquired North American rights for “Riddle of Fire,” the feature debut of writer and director Weston Razooli. The movie follows three mischievous children as they embark on an odyssey when their mother asks them to run an errand.
The film was also an official selection at this year’s Cannes Directors’ Fortnight and will screen on the closing night of the Toronto Film Festival’s Midnight Madness section. It stars Lio Tipton, Charles Halford, Charlie Stover, Skyler Peters, Phoebe Ferro, and Lorelei Olivia Mote. The film is produced by David Atrakchi, Sohrab Mirmont, Razooli and Tipton. Executive producers are Marlow Griffin Lyddon, Brendon Griffin Lyddon, David Wiener, Kate Wiener, Jay Van Hoy, Sophie Meister, and Donna Gruneich. Mister Smith Entertainment is handling worldwide sales.
This is the first time that the two distributors have partnered. Yellow Veil and Vinegar Syndrome are planning...
The film was also an official selection at this year’s Cannes Directors’ Fortnight and will screen on the closing night of the Toronto Film Festival’s Midnight Madness section. It stars Lio Tipton, Charles Halford, Charlie Stover, Skyler Peters, Phoebe Ferro, and Lorelei Olivia Mote. The film is produced by David Atrakchi, Sohrab Mirmont, Razooli and Tipton. Executive producers are Marlow Griffin Lyddon, Brendon Griffin Lyddon, David Wiener, Kate Wiener, Jay Van Hoy, Sophie Meister, and Donna Gruneich. Mister Smith Entertainment is handling worldwide sales.
This is the first time that the two distributors have partnered. Yellow Veil and Vinegar Syndrome are planning...
- 8/7/2023
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Making the pie should have been easy. The recipe calls for the usual ingredients: flour, sugar, lemon (both zest and juice), blueberries and an egg. But the parenthetical after the egg complicates matters. “Preferably speckled,” it reads. In truth, any egg would have been fine. But Jodie (Skyler Peters), Alice (Phoebe Ferro) and Hazel (Charlie Stover), the precocious trio at the heart of Weston Razooli’s fanciful debut feature Riddle of Fire, are not only novice bakers — they’re also children. So what should have been a suggestion becomes a mandate.
The search for the speckled egg is the crux of Razooli’s film, which renders the American West (it’s set in Wyoming but was shot in Utah) as a landscape baited with obstacles. There’s a painterly quality to the director’s depiction of the Great Plains state: Billowing white clouds drift across the powder-blue sky, their path...
The search for the speckled egg is the crux of Razooli’s film, which renders the American West (it’s set in Wyoming but was shot in Utah) as a landscape baited with obstacles. There’s a painterly quality to the director’s depiction of the Great Plains state: Billowing white clouds drift across the powder-blue sky, their path...
- 5/26/2023
- by Lovia Gyarkye
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Weston Razooli is far more than just a writer, producer and director. He’s a world-builder, as evidenced by his feature debut, “Riddle of Fire.” The faux-’70s children’s fantasy adventure, which premieres May 20 in the Cannes Directors’ Fortnight program, follows three tweens on a quest for ingredients to bake a blueberry pie, all to coax the boys’ mother into letting them play a stolen video game. Danger arrives when they meet the “Enchanted Blade Gang” led by a witch (Lio Tipton). Its deadpan comedy and surreal feel — somewhere between “Escape to Witch Mountain,” “Scooby-Doo” and “Napoleon Dynamite” — make it equally appealing to kids, Gen Xers, stoners, Adult Swim watchers and fans of cult indie cinema.
“There’s this tone that I call a ‘dark ’70s sci-fi fantasy vibe’ in children’s films that get a bit scary, which I think is important for an adventure film,” Razooli says.
“There’s this tone that I call a ‘dark ’70s sci-fi fantasy vibe’ in children’s films that get a bit scary, which I think is important for an adventure film,” Razooli says.
- 5/19/2023
- by Gregg Goldstein
- Variety Film + TV
The action comedy is the debut feature of US filmmaker Razooli.
UK sales outfit Mister Smith Entertainment is launching world sales at Cannes on US filmmaker Weston Razooli’s feature film debut, action and adventure comedy Riddle Of Fire. The title will world premiere in Directors’ Fortnight.
It follows three mischievous children as they embark on an odyssey when their mother asks them to run an errand, in a neo-fairytale set in Wyoming in the US.
Riddle Of Fire will star Lio Tipton, Charles Halford, Charlie Stover, Skyler Peters, Phoebe Ferro, and Lorelei Olivia Mote. It is being produced by...
UK sales outfit Mister Smith Entertainment is launching world sales at Cannes on US filmmaker Weston Razooli’s feature film debut, action and adventure comedy Riddle Of Fire. The title will world premiere in Directors’ Fortnight.
It follows three mischievous children as they embark on an odyssey when their mother asks them to run an errand, in a neo-fairytale set in Wyoming in the US.
Riddle Of Fire will star Lio Tipton, Charles Halford, Charlie Stover, Skyler Peters, Phoebe Ferro, and Lorelei Olivia Mote. It is being produced by...
- 4/21/2023
- by Mona Tabbara
- ScreenDaily
A Friend of the Family showrunner-creator Nick Antosca, stars Lio Tipton and Colin Hanks and activist and producer Jan Broberg, on whose life the series is based, joined Deadline’s Contenders Television to spotlight sexual-abuse awareness.
The Peacock true-crime drama series follows Robert Berchtold (Jake Lacy), a serial child kidnapper. After becoming close friends with the Broberg family, Berchtold kidnaps their daughter Jan (played by both Mckenna Grace and Hendrix Yancey) twice within the span of two years. Anna Paquin, Austin Stowell and Patrick Fischler also star.
During the panel, Broberg, whose harrowing life experience has been recounted multiple times across books and documentaries, made a passionate statement regarding the importance of the serialized drama series. “I’ve been telling my story for 30 years, never on purpose, never thinking this would happen, but just because I knew that by telling our stories, maybe we could help future children not experience this,...
The Peacock true-crime drama series follows Robert Berchtold (Jake Lacy), a serial child kidnapper. After becoming close friends with the Broberg family, Berchtold kidnaps their daughter Jan (played by both Mckenna Grace and Hendrix Yancey) twice within the span of two years. Anna Paquin, Austin Stowell and Patrick Fischler also star.
During the panel, Broberg, whose harrowing life experience has been recounted multiple times across books and documentaries, made a passionate statement regarding the importance of the serialized drama series. “I’ve been telling my story for 30 years, never on purpose, never thinking this would happen, but just because I knew that by telling our stories, maybe we could help future children not experience this,...
- 4/16/2023
- by Destiny Jackson
- Deadline Film + TV
Deadline’s Contenders Television, where the top networks and streamers are showing off their wares and Emmy hopefuls, continues Sunday with 20 more panels after a chock-full Saturday featuring some of the best and brightest series this awards season.
Click here to register for and watch the livestream.
After the likes of Riley Keogh, Patrick Stewart, Steven Yeun, Natasha Lyonne, Marc Maron, Wanda Sykes, Kathryn Hahn and Joel McHale took the DGA Theater stage in Los Angeles, Sunday’s lineup is slated to feature appearances by Helen Mirren, Adam Scott, Quinta Brunson, Maya Rudolph, Taron Egerton, Jason Segel, Bryan Cranston, Weird Al Yankovic, Kerry Washington, Elle Fanning, Paddy Considine and many more.
The studios and streamers participating this weekend at our panel extravaganza: Peacock, Prime Video, National Geographic, Apple TV+, Netflix, Hulu, CBS Studios, Showtime, Fox Entertainment, Paramount+, AMC/AMC+, HBO Max, Starz, Sony Pictures Television, ABC, Roku, Onyx Collective and Disney+.
Click here to register for and watch the livestream.
After the likes of Riley Keogh, Patrick Stewart, Steven Yeun, Natasha Lyonne, Marc Maron, Wanda Sykes, Kathryn Hahn and Joel McHale took the DGA Theater stage in Los Angeles, Sunday’s lineup is slated to feature appearances by Helen Mirren, Adam Scott, Quinta Brunson, Maya Rudolph, Taron Egerton, Jason Segel, Bryan Cranston, Weird Al Yankovic, Kerry Washington, Elle Fanning, Paddy Considine and many more.
The studios and streamers participating this weekend at our panel extravaganza: Peacock, Prime Video, National Geographic, Apple TV+, Netflix, Hulu, CBS Studios, Showtime, Fox Entertainment, Paramount+, AMC/AMC+, HBO Max, Starz, Sony Pictures Television, ABC, Roku, Onyx Collective and Disney+.
- 4/16/2023
- by Pete Hammond
- Deadline Film + TV
Boyd Holbrook is an American actor. He is best known for his roles in Narcos, Gone Girl (2014), Logan (2017) and Vengeance (2022).
Boyd Holbrook Biography: Age, Early Life, Family, Education
Boyd Holbrook was born in 1980 (Boyd Holbrook’s age: 42) in Prestonsburg, Kentucky to Ellen and Don Holbrook.
Holbrook studied at the William Esper Studio for the Meisner Acting Program and with Shane Ann Younts’ voice and speech program.
Boyd Holbrook Biography: Career
Holbrook started his career as a model in 2001 for labels such as Gucci, Versace, Calvin Klein and Marc Jacobs. His acting career started in 2008 with his role in the movie Milk and other movies like Higher Ground (2011), The Magic of Belle Isle (2012), The Host (2013) and The Skeleton Twins (2014).
His career took off after his role in Gone Girl (2014), a psychological thriller directed by David Fincher. This led him to the role of DEA agent Steve Murphy in Netflix’s Narcos...
Boyd Holbrook Biography: Age, Early Life, Family, Education
Boyd Holbrook was born in 1980 (Boyd Holbrook’s age: 42) in Prestonsburg, Kentucky to Ellen and Don Holbrook.
Holbrook studied at the William Esper Studio for the Meisner Acting Program and with Shane Ann Younts’ voice and speech program.
Boyd Holbrook Biography: Career
Holbrook started his career as a model in 2001 for labels such as Gucci, Versace, Calvin Klein and Marc Jacobs. His acting career started in 2008 with his role in the movie Milk and other movies like Higher Ground (2011), The Magic of Belle Isle (2012), The Host (2013) and The Skeleton Twins (2014).
His career took off after his role in Gone Girl (2014), a psychological thriller directed by David Fincher. This led him to the role of DEA agent Steve Murphy in Netflix’s Narcos...
- 2/26/2023
- by Hailey Schipper
- Uinterview
Writer/Director Jonathan Levine‘s zombie romantic comedy Warm Bodies turns ten in February 2023, and it’s getting a brand new physical release to celebrate.
Lionsgate is bringing Warm Bodies to 4K Ultra HD Steelbook just in time for Valentine’s Day, and the release is packed with special features and gorgeous packaging designed by artist Matt Ryan Tobin.
Warm Bodies tells “an unlikely romance between a beautiful teen girl and a sensitive undead slacker sets off a chain of events with the power to transform the world.”
The cast includes Nicholas Hoult, Teresa Palmer, Rob Corddry, Dave Franco, Analeigh Tipton, Cory Hardrict, and John Malkovich.
You’ll be able to bring this release home to your Valentine on February 7, 2023.
Special Features include:
Boy Meets, ER, Doesn’T Eat Girl R&j A Little Less Dead Extreme Zombie Makeover! A Wreck In Progress Bustin’ Caps Beware The Boneys Whimsical Sweetness:...
Lionsgate is bringing Warm Bodies to 4K Ultra HD Steelbook just in time for Valentine’s Day, and the release is packed with special features and gorgeous packaging designed by artist Matt Ryan Tobin.
Warm Bodies tells “an unlikely romance between a beautiful teen girl and a sensitive undead slacker sets off a chain of events with the power to transform the world.”
The cast includes Nicholas Hoult, Teresa Palmer, Rob Corddry, Dave Franco, Analeigh Tipton, Cory Hardrict, and John Malkovich.
You’ll be able to bring this release home to your Valentine on February 7, 2023.
Special Features include:
Boy Meets, ER, Doesn’T Eat Girl R&j A Little Less Dead Extreme Zombie Makeover! A Wreck In Progress Bustin’ Caps Beware The Boneys Whimsical Sweetness:...
- 12/13/2022
- by Meagan Navarro
- bloody-disgusting.com
[Warning: The following contains Major spoilers for A Friend of the Family Episode 6, “Son of Perdition.”] In A Friend of the Family Episode 6, Robert “B” Berchtold (played by an intentionally unsettling Jake Lacy) took his obsession with Mckenna Grace‘s Jan Broberg public, telling his wife, Gayle (Lio Tipton) and everyone around him that he intends to marry a teenager. Jan, completely under his thumb, is starting to panic as the “aliens” who “kidnapped” her and B years before told her they must have a baby by the time she’s 16. In her reality, time is running out, and B’s campaign against her parents, Bob and Mary Ann (Colin Hanks and Anna Paquin), has Jan convinced they’re jealous of her and B’s bond. It’s a bleak time for the Brobergs, to say the least. Here, Grace breaks down the episode, what it was like coming into the season halfway through, and what to...
- 10/25/2022
- TV Insider
Lio Tipton seems to be playing a fictional character in Peacock’s psychological thriller limited series “A Friend of the Family,” based on true events. But, as the Nick Antosca-created show proves, sometimes truth really is stranger than fiction.
Actor Tipton, who identifies as non-binary and uses they/them pronouns, portrays Latter Day Saints housewife Gail Berchtold, who seems to have the perfect life: a handsome husband (Jake Lacy), five adorable children, and kind neighbors, the Brobergs (Colin Hanks and Anna Paquin). Yet when Gail’s spouse Bob “Brother B” grooms and repeatedly kidnaps the young Jan Broberg, Gail’s own abusive relationship with Bob comes to light.
“It was really hard. There is nothing decisive in where she stands,” Lipton said of Gail. “The person I was representing in a big way was the most fictional representation of any of the characters. Because of that, I tried to...
Actor Tipton, who identifies as non-binary and uses they/them pronouns, portrays Latter Day Saints housewife Gail Berchtold, who seems to have the perfect life: a handsome husband (Jake Lacy), five adorable children, and kind neighbors, the Brobergs (Colin Hanks and Anna Paquin). Yet when Gail’s spouse Bob “Brother B” grooms and repeatedly kidnaps the young Jan Broberg, Gail’s own abusive relationship with Bob comes to light.
“It was really hard. There is nothing decisive in where she stands,” Lipton said of Gail. “The person I was representing in a big way was the most fictional representation of any of the characters. Because of that, I tried to...
- 10/22/2022
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
True crime series continue to take up a lot of space on networks and streaming services thanks to our unwavering desire to investigate the truly horrendous and dark side of humanity. Sometimes these adaptations are impactful and other times they are underwhelming. But, when they are done well, they can be some of the best programming on the small screen. One such series is the new Peacock drama A Friend of the Family.
Based on the shocking true story of Jan Broberg, A Friend of the Family follows two Mormon families in Idaho who become very close. One of the fathers, Robert Berchtold, becomes infatuated with the eldest daughter of the other family. Over the course of decades, a sinister relationship develops that involves kidnapping, pedophilia, and much more. It is truly shocking to watch unfold and even more alarming as to how it was able to occur in the first place.
Based on the shocking true story of Jan Broberg, A Friend of the Family follows two Mormon families in Idaho who become very close. One of the fathers, Robert Berchtold, becomes infatuated with the eldest daughter of the other family. Over the course of decades, a sinister relationship develops that involves kidnapping, pedophilia, and much more. It is truly shocking to watch unfold and even more alarming as to how it was able to occur in the first place.
- 10/11/2022
- by Alex Maidy
- JoBlo.com
This opening is usually where a disclaimer goes. For a series like “A Friend of the Family,” one that dramatizes the events behind a story that came to public attention through an acclaimed (or at least widely-seen) documentary, it’s almost second nature now to start off any discussion with a acknowledgment that many of the details are an open matter. Anyone who wants to know the story beforehand (particularly those who might want to avoid certain subject matter the story addresses) can easily find a concise summary with a few clicks.
Creators will go to great lengths to try to preserve a certain kind of viewing experience, one with twists unspoiled and jarring turns hidden. Amidst a sea of real-life stories of manipulation and grief and predation being turned into TV series, “A Friend of the Family” is one that stands out because it’s not constructed in that way.
Creators will go to great lengths to try to preserve a certain kind of viewing experience, one with twists unspoiled and jarring turns hidden. Amidst a sea of real-life stories of manipulation and grief and predation being turned into TV series, “A Friend of the Family” is one that stands out because it’s not constructed in that way.
- 10/6/2022
- by Steve Greene
- Indiewire
The documentary to podcast to scripted series is now a familiar progression for those of us who can’t help but blast blue light into our eyes at night, plunging into one true crime rabbit hole or another instead of sleeping. It’s no longer enough to consume a real-life travesty just for the facts; we need to obsess over the really juicy ones from every angle, from the lurid to the topical to the philosophical.
The latest now-familiar story to make the final stop on the all-platforms content cycle — the A-list scripted limited series — is the story of Jan Broberg, who was kidnapped twice as a child by her neighbor Robert Berchtold, and is now chronicled in “A Friend of the Family.”
Skye Borgman’s Netflix documentary “Abducted In Plain Sight” first introduced this strange, maddening story to a mass audience, leaving viewers with outrage and righteous judgment, the...
The latest now-familiar story to make the final stop on the all-platforms content cycle — the A-list scripted limited series — is the story of Jan Broberg, who was kidnapped twice as a child by her neighbor Robert Berchtold, and is now chronicled in “A Friend of the Family.”
Skye Borgman’s Netflix documentary “Abducted In Plain Sight” first introduced this strange, maddening story to a mass audience, leaving viewers with outrage and righteous judgment, the...
- 10/6/2022
- by Stephan Lee
- The Wrap
Fans of the brilliant documentary series Abducted in Plain Sight will be pleased to see that the incredible true story that illuminated the show is now being dramatised in Peacock original series A Friend of the Family.
To mark the release of the new series we had the pleasure in speaking to some of its leading stars. Below you can watch interviews in their entirety, with young performer Mckenna Grace, who discusses working alongside her fellow actors, and contextualising and making sense of the dark and disturbing story at hand. We also spoke to Jake Lacy and Lio Tipton, the former playing the antagonist of the piece, about getting in the head of such complex characters.
The first three episodes of A Friend of the Family is available on 7th October on Peacock on Sky and Now with new episodes dropping weekly.
Mckenna Grace
Lio Tipton & Jake Lacy
Synopsis
The...
To mark the release of the new series we had the pleasure in speaking to some of its leading stars. Below you can watch interviews in their entirety, with young performer Mckenna Grace, who discusses working alongside her fellow actors, and contextualising and making sense of the dark and disturbing story at hand. We also spoke to Jake Lacy and Lio Tipton, the former playing the antagonist of the piece, about getting in the head of such complex characters.
The first three episodes of A Friend of the Family is available on 7th October on Peacock on Sky and Now with new episodes dropping weekly.
Mckenna Grace
Lio Tipton & Jake Lacy
Synopsis
The...
- 10/6/2022
- by Stefan Pape
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Click here to read the full article.
Making way-too-long, way-too-late indirect scripted adaptations of shoddily made Netflix true crime documentaries wouldn’t seem like a winning business plan. But six months after informally turning Tiger King into the almost unwatchably hammy Joe vs. Carole, Peacock has given the limited series treatment to 2019’s Abducted in Plain Sight.
Abducted in Plain Sight — one of those Netflix releases that come without any promotion, are all anybody discusses for three days and then are never mentioned again — was simultaneously tedious and tawdry. At only 91 minutes, it was either infuriatingly repetitive or repetitively infuriating, and the idea that Peacock’s A Friend of the Family was going to tell Jan Broberg’s harrowingly bizarre story in nine hours caused me immediate trepidation.
Based on six episodes sent to critics, A Friend of the Family is simultaneously doomed by that structural choice and close to a best-case scenario.
Making way-too-long, way-too-late indirect scripted adaptations of shoddily made Netflix true crime documentaries wouldn’t seem like a winning business plan. But six months after informally turning Tiger King into the almost unwatchably hammy Joe vs. Carole, Peacock has given the limited series treatment to 2019’s Abducted in Plain Sight.
Abducted in Plain Sight — one of those Netflix releases that come without any promotion, are all anybody discusses for three days and then are never mentioned again — was simultaneously tedious and tawdry. At only 91 minutes, it was either infuriatingly repetitive or repetitively infuriating, and the idea that Peacock’s A Friend of the Family was going to tell Jan Broberg’s harrowingly bizarre story in nine hours caused me immediate trepidation.
Based on six episodes sent to critics, A Friend of the Family is simultaneously doomed by that structural choice and close to a best-case scenario.
- 10/5/2022
- by Daniel Fienberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
A Friend of the family premieres on Peacock on October 6.
The series is a fictionalized take on a story you may know very well.
Jan Broberg's story was previously told on the Netflix docuseries, Abducted in Plain Sight.
Now, from creator Nick Antosca and with Broberg's help as an executive producer, her story is investigated again, this time without the details.
Instead, Antosca and Broberg try to show viewers how an insidious man made himself a friend of the family, ingratiating himself into their world, breeding a perfect scenario in which Broberg was kidnapped and abused, with her abductor never paying a steep price for his crimes.
Jake Lacey stars as Robert 'B' Berchtold, the man behind the crimes, and Lio Tipton is his wife, Gail.
In our interview, Lacey discusses how he was challenged as an actor to bring B's views to light without needing to understand the man himself.
The series is a fictionalized take on a story you may know very well.
Jan Broberg's story was previously told on the Netflix docuseries, Abducted in Plain Sight.
Now, from creator Nick Antosca and with Broberg's help as an executive producer, her story is investigated again, this time without the details.
Instead, Antosca and Broberg try to show viewers how an insidious man made himself a friend of the family, ingratiating himself into their world, breeding a perfect scenario in which Broberg was kidnapped and abused, with her abductor never paying a steep price for his crimes.
Jake Lacey stars as Robert 'B' Berchtold, the man behind the crimes, and Lio Tipton is his wife, Gail.
In our interview, Lacey discusses how he was challenged as an actor to bring B's views to light without needing to understand the man himself.
- 10/5/2022
- by Carissa Pavlica
- TVfanatic
Plot: Inspired by the harrowing true story of the Broberg family, whose daughter Jan was kidnapped multiple times over a period of a few years by a charismatic, obsessed family “friend”.
Review: There does not seem to be any end in sight for the current wave of true crime event series populating streaming services these days. While some are better than others, there are still some genuinely disturbing stories that have been told recently. Documentaries always have an advantage in the realm of true crime, but a well-made narrative series can chill you as much as entertain. A Friend of the Family, from producer Nick Antosca, is one of the most shocking and disturbing true crime stories I have ever heard and offers a well-made look at a story that is too crazy not to be true. With a great cast and the actual victim of the crime on board as a producer,...
Review: There does not seem to be any end in sight for the current wave of true crime event series populating streaming services these days. While some are better than others, there are still some genuinely disturbing stories that have been told recently. Documentaries always have an advantage in the realm of true crime, but a well-made narrative series can chill you as much as entertain. A Friend of the Family, from producer Nick Antosca, is one of the most shocking and disturbing true crime stories I have ever heard and offers a well-made look at a story that is too crazy not to be true. With a great cast and the actual victim of the crime on board as a producer,...
- 10/4/2022
- by Alex Maidy
- JoBlo.com
Click here to read the full article.
Here’s a look at this week’s biggest premieres, parties and openings in Los Angeles and New York, including red carpets for Hocus Pocus 2, A Friend of the Family, Entergalactic and the Clooney Foundation for Justice’s Albie Awards.
Hocus Pocus 2 premiere
Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy premiered their highly anticipated Disney+ sequel in New York on Tuesday, along with newcomers Sam Richardson, Whitney Peak and Belissa Escobedo.
Anne Fletcher, Kathy Najimy, Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, Adam Shankman, Lynn Harris and Sam Richardson Whitney Peak and Belissa Escobedo Bette Midler
Entergalactic premiere
On Wednesday, Netflix hosted a brunch and evening premiere for new series Entergalactic, the latter at the The Paris Theater in New York City. Scott “Kid Cudi” Mescudi, Jessica Williams, Ty Dolla ign, Laura Harrier and Teyana Taylor were in attendance along with executive producers Kenya Barris,...
Here’s a look at this week’s biggest premieres, parties and openings in Los Angeles and New York, including red carpets for Hocus Pocus 2, A Friend of the Family, Entergalactic and the Clooney Foundation for Justice’s Albie Awards.
Hocus Pocus 2 premiere
Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy premiered their highly anticipated Disney+ sequel in New York on Tuesday, along with newcomers Sam Richardson, Whitney Peak and Belissa Escobedo.
Anne Fletcher, Kathy Najimy, Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, Adam Shankman, Lynn Harris and Sam Richardson Whitney Peak and Belissa Escobedo Bette Midler
Entergalactic premiere
On Wednesday, Netflix hosted a brunch and evening premiere for new series Entergalactic, the latter at the The Paris Theater in New York City. Scott “Kid Cudi” Mescudi, Jessica Williams, Ty Dolla ign, Laura Harrier and Teyana Taylor were in attendance along with executive producers Kenya Barris,...
- 9/30/2022
- by Kirsten Chuba
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: Tanner Stine (Impulse) and Kaylee Bryant (Legacies) will lead the supernatural horror Spin the Bottle from director Gavin Wiesen (The Art of Getting By), with Justin Long (Barbarian) and Ali Larter (The Rookie) to play supporting roles.
The recently wrapped film written by John Cregan centers on a group of teenagers in small town Texas who unleash a deadly force after playing the famed party game Spin the Bottle in an abandoned house where a grisly massacre once took place.
Christopher Ammanuel (Black Lightning), Ryan Whitney (Reagan), Angela Halili (American Horror Stories), Samantha Cormier (Legion), Hal Cumpston (The Greatest Beer Run Ever) and Tony Amendola (The Curse of La Llorona) round out the cast. Fortress Media Group is financing, with Will Hayes, Jim Valdez, Kyle Hayes and Chris Barish producing. Harrison Kordestani is exec producing, with Scot Ruggles serving as co-producer.
Stine has previously appeared on series including Impulse,...
The recently wrapped film written by John Cregan centers on a group of teenagers in small town Texas who unleash a deadly force after playing the famed party game Spin the Bottle in an abandoned house where a grisly massacre once took place.
Christopher Ammanuel (Black Lightning), Ryan Whitney (Reagan), Angela Halili (American Horror Stories), Samantha Cormier (Legion), Hal Cumpston (The Greatest Beer Run Ever) and Tony Amendola (The Curse of La Llorona) round out the cast. Fortress Media Group is financing, with Will Hayes, Jim Valdez, Kyle Hayes and Chris Barish producing. Harrison Kordestani is exec producing, with Scot Ruggles serving as co-producer.
Stine has previously appeared on series including Impulse,...
- 9/15/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
A Friend of the Family is coming soon to Peacock. The true crime drama follows Robert Berchtold as he kidnaps Jan Broberg -- again and again. The limited series will consist of nine episodes. Jake Lacy, Anna Paquin, Colin Hanks, Lio Tipton, Hendrix Yancey, Mckenna Grace, Austin Stowell, Patrick Fischler, Bree Elrod, and Philip Ettinger star in the series which arrives in October.
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- 9/14/2022
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
Peacock has released a new trailer for the upcoming limited series "A Friend of the Family." It's based on the true story of the manipulation of the Broberg family in the 1970s and the grooming and multiple kidnappings of Jan Broberg by child predator Robert Berchtold.
If the names sound familiar, there's a reason for that. Not only did the real-life case get a book treatment from Mary Anne Broberg and Jan Broberg entitled "Stolen Innocence: The Jan Broberg Story," but it was made into the 2019 true crime documentary "Abducted in Plain Sight" that aired on Netflix.
The series follows the Brobergs through the relationship each of the parents and Jan had with Berchtold, the grooming, the wild stories he told her, and the kidnappings. I'm warning you now; it's hard to watch if you know what's coming.
"A Friend of the Family" stars Academy Award-winner Anna Paquin as Mary Anne Broberg,...
If the names sound familiar, there's a reason for that. Not only did the real-life case get a book treatment from Mary Anne Broberg and Jan Broberg entitled "Stolen Innocence: The Jan Broberg Story," but it was made into the 2019 true crime documentary "Abducted in Plain Sight" that aired on Netflix.
The series follows the Brobergs through the relationship each of the parents and Jan had with Berchtold, the grooming, the wild stories he told her, and the kidnappings. I'm warning you now; it's hard to watch if you know what's coming.
"A Friend of the Family" stars Academy Award-winner Anna Paquin as Mary Anne Broberg,...
- 9/13/2022
- by Jenna Busch
- Slash Film
Not everyone is a good person. Some people have darkness lurking in them that drives them to commit unspeakable acts. These people could be your family, co-workers, and friends. People change behind closed doors, but some monsters refuse to remain hidden when an object of desire threatens to escape their grasp. In Peacock’s A Friend of the Family trailer, the Broberg family discovers an unfathomable secret about a friend who feels more like an extended family member.
According to Peacock, A Friend of the Family is “based on the harrowing true story of the Broberg family, whose daughter Jan was kidnapped multiple times over a period of a few years by a charismatic, obsessed family “friend.” The Brobergs — devoted to their faith, family, and community — were utterly unprepared for the sophisticated tactics their neighbor used to exploit their vulnerabilities, drive them apart, and turn their daughter against them. This...
According to Peacock, A Friend of the Family is “based on the harrowing true story of the Broberg family, whose daughter Jan was kidnapped multiple times over a period of a few years by a charismatic, obsessed family “friend.” The Brobergs — devoted to their faith, family, and community — were utterly unprepared for the sophisticated tactics their neighbor used to exploit their vulnerabilities, drive them apart, and turn their daughter against them. This...
- 9/13/2022
- by Steve Seigh
- JoBlo.com
Julia Child is getting a Crazy Ex-Girlfriend: Rachel Bloom, who created and starred on the aforementioned CW dramedy, has joined the HBO Max series Julia for Season 2, our sister site Variety reports.
The actress will recur as Elaine Levitch, “a dynamo who comes to Wgbh by way of CBS to work with Julia on The French Chef.”
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Julia, which stars Sarah Lancashire as the acclaimed...
The actress will recur as Elaine Levitch, “a dynamo who comes to Wgbh by way of CBS to work with Julia on The French Chef.”
More from TVLineTVLine Items: Roswell Vet Joins Upload, Leslie Odom Jr. Visits Abbott and MoreTVLine Items: Abbott Elementary Trailer, SNL Premiere Date and MoreTVLine Items: Saul Vet's Apple Series, Minions Movie Hits Peacock and More
Julia, which stars Sarah Lancashire as the acclaimed...
- 9/13/2022
- by Vlada Gelman
- TVLine.com
Peacock’s debuted an official trailer for the limited true crime series A Friend of the Family starring Colin Hanks and Anna Paquin. The nine-episode drama is based on a bizarre true story, and the trailer introduces the key players including the titular friend of the family who turns out to be a complete psychopath.
The cast also includes Jake Lacy, Lio Tipton, Mckenna Grace, and Hendrix Yancey. Nick Antosca serves as writer, executive producer, and showrunner, with the real kidnap victim at the heart of the story – Jan Broberg – involved as a producer.
Peacock’s official synopsis describes the series as “based on the harrowing true story of the Broberg family, whose daughter Jan was kidnapped multiple times over a period of a few years by a charismatic, obsessed family ‘friend.’ The Brobergs — devoted to their faith, family, and community — were utterly unprepared for the sophisticated tactics their neighbor used to exploit their vulnerabilities,...
The cast also includes Jake Lacy, Lio Tipton, Mckenna Grace, and Hendrix Yancey. Nick Antosca serves as writer, executive producer, and showrunner, with the real kidnap victim at the heart of the story – Jan Broberg – involved as a producer.
Peacock’s official synopsis describes the series as “based on the harrowing true story of the Broberg family, whose daughter Jan was kidnapped multiple times over a period of a few years by a charismatic, obsessed family ‘friend.’ The Brobergs — devoted to their faith, family, and community — were utterly unprepared for the sophisticated tactics their neighbor used to exploit their vulnerabilities,...
- 9/13/2022
- by Rebecca Murray
- Showbiz Junkies
Who do you love the most?
That’s the question at the heart of Peacock series “A Friend of the Family,” based on the terrifying true story of the Broberg family. Jake Lacy stars as “Brother B,” the next-door neighbor who succumbs to “impulsive mood” swings with fatal consequences for the family next door, led by Anna Paquin and Colin Hanks, who play Mrs. and Mr. Broberg.
“A Friend of the Family,” premiering October 6, is the latest series from “The Act” and “Candy” executive producer Nick Antosca, who serves as showrunner, EP, and writer for the upcoming limited series.
Lio Tipton, Mckenna Grace, and Hendrix Yancey additionally star in “A Friend of the Family,” with Alex Hedlund and Eliza Hittman also executive-producing the series, and “Never Rarely Sometimes Always” director Hittman helming multiple episodes including the pilot. Real-life survivors Jan and Mary Ann Broberg additionally both serve as producers on the series.
That’s the question at the heart of Peacock series “A Friend of the Family,” based on the terrifying true story of the Broberg family. Jake Lacy stars as “Brother B,” the next-door neighbor who succumbs to “impulsive mood” swings with fatal consequences for the family next door, led by Anna Paquin and Colin Hanks, who play Mrs. and Mr. Broberg.
“A Friend of the Family,” premiering October 6, is the latest series from “The Act” and “Candy” executive producer Nick Antosca, who serves as showrunner, EP, and writer for the upcoming limited series.
Lio Tipton, Mckenna Grace, and Hendrix Yancey additionally star in “A Friend of the Family,” with Alex Hedlund and Eliza Hittman also executive-producing the series, and “Never Rarely Sometimes Always” director Hittman helming multiple episodes including the pilot. Real-life survivors Jan and Mary Ann Broberg additionally both serve as producers on the series.
- 9/13/2022
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Peacock gave viewers the most extensive look yet at A Friend of the Family during the 74th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards.
Series star Jake Lacy, who was nominated for an award, introduced the trailer during the Emmys telecast.
The official trailer and key art take us inside the world of the series.
In addition to Lacy, A Friend of the Family features a star-studded cast that includes Anna Paquin (Flack), Colin Hanks (The Offer), Lio Tipton (The Edge of Sleep), Mckenna Grace (Ghostbusters: Afterlife), Hendrix Yancey (George & Tammy), and more.
The series premieres on Peacock on October 6 with three episodes at launch and new episodes streaming weekly.
A Friend Of The Family is inspired by the harrowing true story of the Broberg family, whose daughter Jan was kidnapped multiple times over a few years by a charismatic, obsessed family “friend.”
The series comes from showrunner/EP/writer, Nick Antosca, and...
Series star Jake Lacy, who was nominated for an award, introduced the trailer during the Emmys telecast.
The official trailer and key art take us inside the world of the series.
In addition to Lacy, A Friend of the Family features a star-studded cast that includes Anna Paquin (Flack), Colin Hanks (The Offer), Lio Tipton (The Edge of Sleep), Mckenna Grace (Ghostbusters: Afterlife), Hendrix Yancey (George & Tammy), and more.
The series premieres on Peacock on October 6 with three episodes at launch and new episodes streaming weekly.
A Friend Of The Family is inspired by the harrowing true story of the Broberg family, whose daughter Jan was kidnapped multiple times over a few years by a charismatic, obsessed family “friend.”
The series comes from showrunner/EP/writer, Nick Antosca, and...
- 9/13/2022
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
A first look at A Friend of the Family, Peacock’s limited true crime drama series, is out in advance of the trailer’s debut this evening during the 74th Emmys.
The series features Anna Paquin (Flack), Jake Lacy (The White Lotus), Colin Hanks (The Offer), Lio Tipton (The Edge of Sleep), Mckenna Grace (Ghostbusters: Afterlife), and Hendrix Yancey (George & Tammy). The show premieres on Peacock Oct. 6 with three episodes at launch and new episodes streaming weekly.
A Friend Of The Family is inspired by the true story of the Broberg family, whose daughter Jan was kidnapped multiple times over a few years by a charismatic, obsessed family “friend.” The series comes from showrunner/EP/writer Nick Antosca (Candy) and executive producers Alex Hedlund and Eliza Hittman, who also directs. Jan and Mary Ann Broberg both serve as producers on the series while Skye Borgman for Top Knot Films is a consulting producer.
The series features Anna Paquin (Flack), Jake Lacy (The White Lotus), Colin Hanks (The Offer), Lio Tipton (The Edge of Sleep), Mckenna Grace (Ghostbusters: Afterlife), and Hendrix Yancey (George & Tammy). The show premieres on Peacock Oct. 6 with three episodes at launch and new episodes streaming weekly.
A Friend Of The Family is inspired by the true story of the Broberg family, whose daughter Jan was kidnapped multiple times over a few years by a charismatic, obsessed family “friend.” The series comes from showrunner/EP/writer Nick Antosca (Candy) and executive producers Alex Hedlund and Eliza Hittman, who also directs. Jan and Mary Ann Broberg both serve as producers on the series while Skye Borgman for Top Knot Films is a consulting producer.
- 9/13/2022
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Jessica Szohr, who stars in Seth MacFarlane’s Hulu drama The Orville, has signed with Buchwald. She was previously with ICM.
Szohr recently completed Season 3 of The Orville where she portrays Lieutenant Commander Talla Keyali.
She is most notably recognized for playing Vanessa Abrams on Gossip Girl for four seasons. The success of the show led her to create her podcast Xoxo, which takes a deep dive into the cultural phenomenon of Gossip Girl and features interviews with cast and crew, as well as moguls in music, fashion and entertainment.
Additionally, Szohr played a pivotal role in Seasons 8 and 9 of Showtime’s Shameless as the intelligent, strong lesbian Nessa Chabon, who befriends Emmy Rossum’s character Fiona Gallagher. Prior to that, she portrayed Renee in David Lynch’s Twin Peaks for Showtime, Gretchen Polk in USA Network’s Complications, and Laura Melvin in the DirecTV series Kingdom.
On the film side,...
Szohr recently completed Season 3 of The Orville where she portrays Lieutenant Commander Talla Keyali.
She is most notably recognized for playing Vanessa Abrams on Gossip Girl for four seasons. The success of the show led her to create her podcast Xoxo, which takes a deep dive into the cultural phenomenon of Gossip Girl and features interviews with cast and crew, as well as moguls in music, fashion and entertainment.
Additionally, Szohr played a pivotal role in Seasons 8 and 9 of Showtime’s Shameless as the intelligent, strong lesbian Nessa Chabon, who befriends Emmy Rossum’s character Fiona Gallagher. Prior to that, she portrayed Renee in David Lynch’s Twin Peaks for Showtime, Gretchen Polk in USA Network’s Complications, and Laura Melvin in the DirecTV series Kingdom.
On the film side,...
- 8/24/2022
- by Rosy Cordero
- Deadline Film + TV
This family friend is no friend of the family.
Peacock has released a teaser for its true-crime drama limited series “A Friend of the Family”, inspired by real events. It stars Jack Lacy (“White Lotus”), Anna Paquin (“The Irishman”), Colin Hanks (“Fargo”), McKenna Grace (“Ghostbusters: Afterlife”) and Lio Tipton.
Read More: Jon Bernthal Is Out For Revenge In Sizzling New ‘American Gigolo’ Trailer
The series “is based on the harrowing true story of the Broberg family, whose daughter Jan was kidnapped multiple times over a period of years by a charismatic, obsessed family ‘friend,'” according to Peacock.
“The Brobergs — devoted to their faith, family, and community — were utterly unprepared for the sophisticated tactics their neighbor used to exploit their vulnerabilities, drive them apart, and turn their daughter against them. This is the story of how their lives were permanently altered — and how they survived.”
Read More: Will Smith’s...
Peacock has released a teaser for its true-crime drama limited series “A Friend of the Family”, inspired by real events. It stars Jack Lacy (“White Lotus”), Anna Paquin (“The Irishman”), Colin Hanks (“Fargo”), McKenna Grace (“Ghostbusters: Afterlife”) and Lio Tipton.
Read More: Jon Bernthal Is Out For Revenge In Sizzling New ‘American Gigolo’ Trailer
The series “is based on the harrowing true story of the Broberg family, whose daughter Jan was kidnapped multiple times over a period of years by a charismatic, obsessed family ‘friend,'” according to Peacock.
“The Brobergs — devoted to their faith, family, and community — were utterly unprepared for the sophisticated tactics their neighbor used to exploit their vulnerabilities, drive them apart, and turn their daughter against them. This is the story of how their lives were permanently altered — and how they survived.”
Read More: Will Smith’s...
- 8/18/2022
- by Shakiel Mahjouri
- ET Canada
The first teaser for A Friend of the Family is finally here. On Aug. 18, Peacock released a sneak peek at their highly anticipated true crime drama based on the 1970s kidnappings of Jan Broberg, which were also the subject of the wildly popular 2017 documentary Abducted in Plain Sight. The limited series stars The White Lotus' Jake Lacy as the sinister Robert Berchtold, who abducted Jan from her family not once, but twice, after befriending her parents Mary Ann (played by Anna Paquin) and Bob (portrayed by Colin Hanks). "What good luck that you folks moved in two blocks up," Bob says in the teaser before Robert's wife Gail (played by Lio Tipton) warns, "He gets these...
- 8/18/2022
- E! Online
Dr. Westbourne is scrubbing out at General Hospital.
Kelly Thiebaud is departing ABC’s daytime drama later this year, our sister site Soaps.com reports. Thiebaud has played Dr. Britt Westbourne off and on since her Gh debut in 2012 — and took home the 2022 Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series.
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As previously reported,...
Kelly Thiebaud is departing ABC’s daytime drama later this year, our sister site Soaps.com reports. Thiebaud has played Dr. Britt Westbourne off and on since her Gh debut in 2012 — and took home the 2022 Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series.
More from TVLineNeve Campbell to Headline Avalon, ABC's Catalina Island Mystery From David E. Kelley and Michael ConnellyGrey's Anatomy Confirms 10 Returning Regulars for Season 19 -- Plus, Who's Been Bumped to Recurring Status?Station 19 Season 6 Key Art Hints at Whether Jack Is Really Gone for Good
As previously reported,...
- 8/18/2022
- by Ryan Schwartz
- TVLine.com
When Jan Broberg was a child, she was kidnapped by close family friend Robert Berchtold not once, but twice. Her parents, Mary Ann and Bob Broberg, knew what Robert did the first time, and yet it somehow happened again. The mind-boggling true crime story is dramatized in Peacock‘s A Friend of the Family, debuting October 6 on the streaming service. Starring Jake Lacy (The White Lotus), Anna Paquin (True Blood), Colin Hanks (The Offer), Lio Tipton (Why Women Kill), Mckenna Grace (The Handmaid’s Tale), and Hendrix Yancey (Stranger Things), Peacock debuted the first A Friend of the Family teaser on Thursday, August 18. A Friend of the Family is based on the harrowing true story of the Broberg family, whose daughter Jan was kidnapped multiple times over a period of years by a charismatic, obsessed family “friend.” The Brobergs — devoted to their faith, family, and community — were utterly unprepared for the...
- 8/18/2022
- TV Insider
You never know when there’s a killer next door.
Anna Paquin and Colin Hanks star as Mrs. and Mr. Broberg, a classic suburban couple dedicated to their faith, family, and friends. That is, until one “friend” (Jake Lacy) repeatedly kidnapped their daughter over the course of years. Based on a true story, “A Friend of the Family” is the latest series from “The Act” and “Candy” executive producer Nick Antosca, who serves as showrunner, EP, and writer for the upcoming Peacock limited series, premiering October 6.
Lio Tipton, Mckenna Grace, and Hendrix Yancey also star in “A Friend of the Family,” all on edge as a next-door neighbor succumbs to “impulsive mood” swings with fatal consequences. Alex Hedlund and Eliza Hittman also executive produce the series, with “Never Rarely Sometimes Always” director Hittman helming multiple episodes including the pilot. Real-life survivors Jan and Mary Ann Broberg additionally both serve as producers on the series.
Anna Paquin and Colin Hanks star as Mrs. and Mr. Broberg, a classic suburban couple dedicated to their faith, family, and friends. That is, until one “friend” (Jake Lacy) repeatedly kidnapped their daughter over the course of years. Based on a true story, “A Friend of the Family” is the latest series from “The Act” and “Candy” executive producer Nick Antosca, who serves as showrunner, EP, and writer for the upcoming Peacock limited series, premiering October 6.
Lio Tipton, Mckenna Grace, and Hendrix Yancey also star in “A Friend of the Family,” all on edge as a next-door neighbor succumbs to “impulsive mood” swings with fatal consequences. Alex Hedlund and Eliza Hittman also executive produce the series, with “Never Rarely Sometimes Always” director Hittman helming multiple episodes including the pilot. Real-life survivors Jan and Mary Ann Broberg additionally both serve as producers on the series.
- 8/18/2022
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
A neighbor develops a disturbing interest in the Broberg family in the just-released trailer for Peacock’s upcoming true-crime limited drama series “A Friend of the Family.”
The series is inspired by the true story of the Broberg family, whose daughter Jan was kidnapped multiple times over several years by an obsessed family “friend.” (You can watch the new trailer here.)
Jan and Mary Ann Broberg both serve as producers on the series, which comes from showrunner, executive producer and writer Nick Antosca (“Candy”).
“We were a loving, trusting, educated family. We were not stupid or careless. So how could this happen in our neighborhood, where we knew everyone, and everyone was a friend? The truth is that most predators are not strangers but people we know — people who can build trust, create special friendships, and separate family members psychologically,” Jan Broberg said in a statement.
Also Read:
‘Vampire Academy...
The series is inspired by the true story of the Broberg family, whose daughter Jan was kidnapped multiple times over several years by an obsessed family “friend.” (You can watch the new trailer here.)
Jan and Mary Ann Broberg both serve as producers on the series, which comes from showrunner, executive producer and writer Nick Antosca (“Candy”).
“We were a loving, trusting, educated family. We were not stupid or careless. So how could this happen in our neighborhood, where we knew everyone, and everyone was a friend? The truth is that most predators are not strangers but people we know — people who can build trust, create special friendships, and separate family members psychologically,” Jan Broberg said in a statement.
Also Read:
‘Vampire Academy...
- 8/18/2022
- by Brandon Katz
- The Wrap
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