Edward Stanton Redstone dies

Edward Stanton Redstone, a partner with his brother Sumner Redstone in their family-owned exhibition chain, National Amusements, before he turned to a career in banking, died suddenly in Rancho Mirage, Calif., on Dec. 23. Edward graduated from Colgate U. and Harvard Business School and was involved in philanthropic efforts both in New England and later in California. In addition to his brother, Redstone is survived by his wife, Madeline; four sons; and a number of grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at the Tamarisk Country Club, Rancho Mirage, on Jan. 19 at 4 p.m. Donations may be made to the Betty Ford Center Foundation, 39000 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270. Contact Variety Staff at news@variety.com

Oscars Poster Unveiled For 84th Ceremony

First Published: December 28, 2011 11:23 AM EST Credit: A.M.P.A.S. LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Caption The poster for the 84th Academy AwardsThe Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences unveiled the poster for the 84th Academy Awards on Wednesday morning a poster which pays homage to several great Best Picture winners of the classic gold statue. Under the line, Life, Camera, Action, the poster created by graphic designer Anthony Goldschmidt and Mark and Karen Crawford of the design firm Blood & Chocolate features the Oscar statue next to posters from Gone with the Wind (1939), Casablanca (1943), Giant (1956), The Sound of Music (1965), The Godfather (1972), Driving Miss Daisy (1989), Forrest Gump (1994) and Gladiator (2000). Seven of the films won Best Picture, except for Giant, which earned George Stevens a Best Director statue. The tagline on the poster is, Celebrate the movies in all of us. Whether its a first date or a holiday gathering with friends or family, movies are a big part of our memory, Tom Sherka, Academy President, said in a statement. The Academy Awards not only honor the excellence of these movies, but also celebrate what they mean to us as a culture and to each of us individually. The 84th Academy Awards nominations will be announced live on Tuesday, January 24, 2012, at 5:30 AM PST in the Academys Samuel Goldwyn Theater. The Academy Awards, hosted by Billy Crystal, will air on Sunday, February 26, 2012 at 7 PM EST/4 PM PST on ABC. Copyright 2011 by NBC Universal, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Montana Artists books clients

Montana Artists signed producer/UPM Tim Silver ("Community") and d.p. Grant Cruz ("Workaholics"). Agency reserved line producers Preston Stephen Fischer on Lifetime's "The Client List" and Tracey Jeffrey on Lifetime's "American Housewife."Montana also reserved makeup effects artist Barney Burman on NBC's "Grimm" d.p.'s Jesse E. Thorin Junior. on CBS' "Memorable" and Jamie Barber on Lifetime's "Blue Eyed Butchers" production designers Gae Buckley on NBC's "Isabel," Mark Hofeling on Disney Channel's "Teen Beach Musical" and Ryan Berg on Adult Swim's "Children's Hospital" costume designers Lorraine Carson on VH1's "Single Ladies," and Karen Malecki on USA's "White-colored Collar" editor Scott Powell on Fox's "Touch" and vfx supervisor Eddie Williams on NBC's "Community." * * * Sid Ganis, former prexy in the Academy of motion Picture Arts and Sciences, was named proper consultant at Dolby Labs, supporting their business associations while using film community. "Dolby can be a special company which has stood a profound impact on cinema," mentioned Ganis. "For me the very best enhancements make cinema magical and anticipate using my background enthusiasm to Dolby's efforts." Before presiding inside the Academy, Ganis held senior posts in the new the new sony Pictures Entertainment, Columbia Pictures, Lucasfilm, Warner Bros., Vital and 20th Century Fox. Ganis also hanging out it's of Marvel Entertainment, Center Theatre Group in La, the school of California, Berkeley Art Museum and Off-shoreline Film Archive. Since exiting the Academy, Ganis has elevated his profile among players inside the film biz, including China's Wuxi Studio. * * * Digital animation and visual design house Pixeldust Art galleries hired Dianna Costello as professional producer. Costello, who spent six years at motion graphics studio yU+co. and done PBS' NOVA series "The Fabric in the Cosmos," will oversee marketing and development as Pixeldust seeks to develop partners for output of nonfiction entertainment for television, museums, companies, gov departments and schools. "(Dianna will) be capable of mix her creative talents for project development along with her many years of experience just like a business development and marketing executive," mentioned Pixeldust leader/professional creative director Ricardo Andrade * * * Ali Ahmadi grew to become part of Litepanels, a Vitec Group brand, as senior product manager. Furthermore to heading the item management department, he's charged with enhancing the organization stick to the surface of market demands and product. Ahmadi's earlier gigs include stints at Sachtler, Vinten, Vinten Ramadec, O'Connor and Gas Bags. "(Ali's) understanding in the lighting marketplace will unquestionably result in products that will enable Litepanels' Introduced technology to go in new areas and extra our persistence for be an innovation leader," mentioned Litepanels global marketing V . p . Chris Marchitelli. * * * Grass Valley hired industry veteran Colin Hay to V . p . for Northern Europe, the middle East and Africa and charged him with customer relations, business development and customers management, verifying to Alan Wright, senior veep in the region. Hay formerly labored at Red-colored-colored Bee Media, where his accounts incorporated Disney, Microsoft, Orange, UKTV and Sky. "We plan to bring our file-based, IT-centric technology to help streamline workflows and improve productivity and Roi with a wider quantity of professional media organizations," mentioned Hay. * * * Veteran editor David Smalheiser has grew to become part of Gotham publish house outfit ShootersNYC, the boutique offshoot of Philadelphia-based ShootersINC. ShootersNYC is introduced by controlling director Rob Beckerman in addition to features the talent of editor Anthony Marinelli. Contact Peter Caranicas at peter.caranicas@variety.com

'Expendables 2' Trailer Light On Schwarzenegger, Heavy On Willis

Continuing the trend of this week being the most amazing week in the history of weeks for trailers (an exaggeration, sure, but let's go with it), the very first "Expendables 2" teaser trailer hit last night, and it's bound to make action junkies weak at the knees. Yes, the "Ex2" trailer is light on Schwarzenegger. But whoa, when Arnie makes his appearance firing a machine gun off at who-knows-what, it's enough to guarantee that the Trench we're meeting here is much happier to flex his badass muscles than the guy we saw in the first "Expendables." Plus, what the trailer lacks in Schwarz it more than makes up for in Bruce Willis. The erstwhile John McClane is increasingly looking like the villain of the piece against a Sly and Arnie team-up, and that's just too fantastic for a die-hard action fan (see what I did there?) to ignore. In addition to the "Expendables 2" trailer, Apple debuted a plot description alongside the first look at footage... and depending on your interpretation, major spoilers lie ahead. The Expendables are back and this time it's personal... Barney Ross (Sylvester Stallone), Lee Christmas (Lee Statham), Yin Yang (Jet Li), Gunnar Jensen (Dolph Lundgren),Toll Road (Randy Couture) and Hale Caesar (Terry Crews) -- with newest members Billy the Kid (Liam Hemsworth) and Maggie (Yu Nan) aboard -- are reunited when Mr. Church (Bruce Willis) enlists the Expendables to take on a seemingly simple job. The task looks like an easy paycheck for Barney and his band of old-school mercenaries. But when things go wrong and one of their own is viciously killed, the Expendables are compelled to seek revenge in hostile territory where the odds are stacked against them. Hell-bent on payback, the crew cuts a swath of destruction through opposing forces, wreaking havoc and shutting down an unexpected threat in the nick of time -- six pounds of weapons-grade plutonium; enough to change the balance of power in the world. But that's nothing compared to the justice they serve against the villainous adversary who savagely murdered their brother. That is done the Expendables way. So, uh, did the entire plot just get spoiled? Certainly we now know an Expendable is going to die. Will we see the previously rumored Mickey Rourke bite the dust, or are we talking about another hero altogether -- perhaps the seemingly easily expendable (see what I did again?) Toll Road or Hale Caesar? We'll see. But while we're here, let's just give a salute to the fact that Hemsworth's character is named Billy the Kid. If only Emilio Estevez had been frozen back in 1988 ala Stallone's "Demolition Man," he could be part of this crew. What do you think of the "Expendables 2" trailer? Tell us in the comments section and on Twitter!

Grimm: Meet the New Hansel & Gretel

Daryl Sabara Spy Kids star Daryl Sabara will play one-half of the fairy tale duo Hansel and Gretel on an upcoming episode of Grimm, Entertainment Weekly reports. Grimm's Silas Weir Mitchell: Monroe is wilier than Twilight's Jacob Sabara and Necessary Roughness' Hannah Marks will play Hanson and Gracie, homeless teens trying to survive in the streets of Portland who suddenly get entangled into the creature world's black market of human organ dealing. Suffice it to say, this isn't your parents' version of Hansel and Gretel. Grimm airs Fridays at 9/8c on NBC.

Norways Morten Tyldum To Helm What Went Lower To Mondays? As First British-Language Pic

Morten Tyldum, whose Norwegian thriller Headhunters increased being most likely the very best title in Norwegian box office history this year, has signed onto helm Vendome Pictures’ advanced thriller What Went Lower To Mondays?, the director’s first British-language project. Headhunters, based on Jo Nesbo’s best-selling crime novel, received plenty of buzz if the carried out in Cannes this year, and WME signed Tyldum through the festival more youthful crowd is repped by Anonymous Content. (Magnolia Pictures already has U . s . States rights to Headhunters and contains set a spring release date inside the U.S.) What Went Lower To Monday?, getting a Black List script by Max Botkin, involves identical septuplet brothers and sisters who find it hard to stay hidden inside an overpopulated world where a one-child policy dictates that siblings and siblings are illegal. Raffaella P Laurentiis via Raffaella Productions developed the project it'll produce alongside Vendome Boss Philippe Rousselet. Vendome dedicated to finance the project in December.

Foundry forges comicbook, pic plans

Levin'Offworld'Veteran producer Lloyd Levin, striving to create qualities that may be converted into movies, is starting Foundry Comics together with Stranger Comics.Foundry will publish 4 to 6 graphic books each year in a number of genres varying from medieval historic adventures to advanced action pieces to raucous comedies.Levin -- whose credits include "Watchmen," "Hellboy" and "The Rocketeer" -- and Stranger Comics Boss Sebastian A. Johnson made the announcement."We are posting comicbooks using the aim of which makes them into movies," Levin told Variety. "Generally the scripts are now being written simultaneously (developed in addition to the galleries) because the comicbooks are now being produced. We'll eventually bring aboard a director, then budget and schedule, prepare conceptual art, possibly raise financing, then bring the entire package towards the galleries for more financing and distribution."Foundry is developing "Offworld" by David Manley, author of "Orphan" and "Wrath from the Leaders," like a graphic adaptation of Johnson's original script a good intergalactic safari. Levin can also be in pre-production on the feature version of "Offworld" with Lawrence Gordon Julian Gilbey ("A Lonely Spot to Die") is placed to direct.The concept for Foundry Comics increased from Levin and Sebastian's collaboration on the feature adaptation of "The Untamed," Stranger Comics' first released title, produced by Johnson and artist Peter Bergting. Other projects presently in production at Foundry Comics include:"Quincey Morris" by Steven Katz ("Shadow from the Vampire") within the story from the little-appreciated imaginary American cowboy who kills Dracula in Bram Stoker's novel"Escape Velocity" by Andrew Cosby (creator of Eureka and co-founding father of BOOM! Galleries) -- a guy versus. machine story occur space"Destroying Christmas" by Sebastian A. Johnson and Darrell May -- a vacation tale about two hard-hanging out elves who neglect their responsibilities to disastrous effect and attempt a legendary journey to create things right."There is something magical about creating a tale arrived at existence, be it around the big screen or around the printed page," stated Levin. "In lots of ways my long term passion for comicbooks has fueled a lot of my career in films, so I am grateful and excited for that chance to become directly active in the development of comicbooks. I recieve a hurry whenever a new page returns in the artist." Contact Dork McNary at dork.mcnary@variety.com

Harry Morgan of M*A*S*H Dies at 96

Harry Morgan Harry Morgan, most widely known for his role as Col. Potter in M*A*S*H, died Wednesday at his home in La, The NY Occasions reviews. The longtime actor was 96.Morgan's performance in M*A*S*H, by which he co-starred from 1975 to '83, gained him an Emmy in 1980 as well as Supporting Actor inside a Comedy Series. He reprised the smoothness inside a spin-off entitled AfterMASH. Morgan is also fondly appreciated for his portrayal of Bill Gannon, the partner of Jack Webb's Joe Friday in Dragnet from 1967 to 1970.See the other stars we lost this yearThe Detroit-born actor's other TV credits incorporated December Bride and also the spin-off Pete and Gladys. Based on the Occasions, he once believed he was observed in prime time for any length of 35 straight years.Morgan's film credits were similarly extensive, going completely to 1943's The Ox-Bow Incident and 1945's A Bell for Adano. Younger crowd starred within the Teahouse from the August Moon and Inherit the Wind among a lot more than 100 movies.Browse the relaxation of present day news"My father would read a script the way in which someone else would read Time magazine and set it lower and become around the set the following day,Inch stated boy Charles.He's made it by wife Barbara Bushman, three sons from the previous marriage -- Christopher, Charles, and Paul - and eight grandchildren. His first wife, Eileen Detchon, died in 1985 these were married 45 years.

Actress Dagmara Dominczyk Sells First Novel (Exclusive)

This story first appeared in the Dec. 9 issue of The Hollywood Reporter magazine.our editor recommendsDoes Michael Bay's 'Transformers: Dark of the Moon' Recycle Old Movie Clips? (Video)Director Michael Bay Goes on 3D OffensiveMichael Bay Reveals James Cameron's Secret Role in the Making of 'Transformers' Transformers: Dark of the Moon director Michael Bay weighs in on the importance of sound. The Hollywood Reporter: You have quite a large below-the-line team. Michael Bay: Roughly 3,000 people worked on this Transformers. Some have been with me since 1995's Bad Boys. The people I work with are animals. They're passionate. It irks me that VFX and VFX movies aren't considered art. It's a different type of art, but it's definitely art. THR: How important is sound to your films? Bay: Sound has been a major part of my movies. It's something I love and put a huge emphasis on. The sound on this film is the most complex I've ever done. The Transformers sound team invents sounds, and they start very early. It's a long, creative process, and nothing for this movie is off-the-shelf. Chaos in Chicago: Image progressions of a skyscraper's demise caused by The Driller, which ILM constructed from 30 million polygons -- the digital equivalent of an atom. If they were laid out end to end, the polygons would stretch 68.36 miles. THR: What did you use to create some of the sound that became part of The Driller's "voice"? Bay: At one point, we worked with an orangutan whose trainer said to sound designer Erik Aadahl, "Turn your back and put your keys to the side. I'm going to steal your keys when the orangutan is watching. He'll go crazy because he can't imagine the injustice of what's going on." THR: Can you discuss the Dolby 7.1 Surround Sound mix in the climactic Chicago destruction sequence? Bay: [Rerecording mixer] Greg Russell said reel seven [the destruction of Chicago, including The Driller] was the hardest of his career. He said it had 30,000 fades [audio files], and the entire [Pro Tools audio postproduction system] locked up. They had to call the engineers who developed the program to fix it. They had never heard of a reel having 30,000 fades. THR: Didn't the movie also crash ILM's computer system? Bay: It was the scene where The Driller destroys Chicago. It was single-handedly the most complex shot ILM has ever done in its history. They had to hijack the entire computer system over the weekends to get the shots finished. PHOTO GALLERY: View Gallery 7 Music to Movie Directors: Michael Bay, David Fincher, Spike Jonze Related Topics Michael Bay Oscars Oscars 2012 Transformers: Dark of the Moon

Close states 'Nobbs' not definately not previous roles

'Albert Nobbs'When Glenn Close talks of her title character "Albert Nobbs," she only utilizes female pronouns."It's very funny, because It's my job to discuss her just like a 'she.' Others discuss Albert just like a 'he,' but it's exactly how they view it within the outward appearance," Close states. "It's my job to look internally.InchA Victorian-era lady who determines to disguise herself just like a hotel waiter, to have the ability to forestall utter ruin, is a unique entry on any thesp's resume. But Close sees signal connections to some couple of of her famous stage and screen roles."There's anything compelling in human behavior than anyone who has no self-pity, which has a apparently impossible dream and who's an innocent," she states. That description of Albert also fits Norma Desmond, Close's Tony Award-winning diva in "Sunset Boulevard.""Norma has delusions, but even though you understand she's way available, you kind of have respect on her behalf belief," Close states. "Everybody wants belief, and there's something incredibly touching about Albert's belief that they'll forge this existence for herself with virtually no tools or otherwise an idea how to make it happen.InchNear copped Oscar noms for figures missing of innocence. The Marquise p Merteuil in "Dangerous Liaisons" and Alex Forrest in "Fatal Attraction" visit nothing, even murder, to obtain their way. Nevertheless, Close demands, they tell Albert one all-consuming fact."They're women existing in very male-centered cell phone industry's. A Few Things I loved about Merteuil happens when she rejected to permit people treat her the means by which the majority of females were treated. She's smart enough to acquire people just before them getting her, to ruin people before she's destroyed. You are able to exactly the same about Alex: 'I won't be overlooked, you will not just toss me aside onto a garbage heap.'?"Albert takes the choice tack, keeping a small profile to leave recognition.States Close: "She's perfectly very happy to be invisible. She just doesn't wish to be thrown out all the time. She doesn't desire to lose her job or her money. It's all about survival. It's just different modes of survival." Contact the number newsroom at news@variety.com

Writers' words craft indelible images

Author-director Michel Hazanavicius (around the group of 'The Artist' with Jean Dujardin) started having a treatment just like a 'short novel.'Silence.In films, quiet moments might be probably the most effective strategies to stimulate a effective emotion in order to portray a personality, and frequently what's seen on screen is much more effective than any words might be.But telling tales aesthetically is generally regarded as the province from the director, not the author, since authors are restricted to words, be it dialogue or scene description. Yet authors frequently conceive images even if the storyline continues to be only words on the page.The year's most extreme example is really a film that's mostly quiet: "The Artist." By selecting to (almost) entirely avoid dialogue and seem effects like a storytelling tool, author-director Michel Hazanavicius limited themself to images to describe or stimulate a conflict.Hazanavicius points to some moment when diminishing quiet star George Valentin meets rising talkie star Peppy Burns on the staircase in the studio. "She's on top (from the stairs) and that he is gloomier than she and that he is a touch sad. She outfitted in whitened with very dark hair, and she or he is speaking and speaking because she's now doing speaking movies. He is a touch faded and never speaking whatsoever. Then there's a lengthy shot where he's listening and searching at her where his eyes say he's deeply in love with her. We use light and shadows," Hazanavicius states.Hazanavicius needed to write his script before he or she is sure the project being possible. "I needed to perform a modern movie however with another motion picture grammar," he states. "Nobody tried it for any very long time and that i did not wish to perform a spoof movie."So he authored the script just like a short novel. "I'd write 'We understand he's confused' or 'He does not know very well what she means,' after which allow the actor perform,Inch Hazanavicius states."Shame" is as simple as no measure a quiet film, but co-author/director Steve McQueen determines the primary character's sex addiction within the film's first couple of minutes without many words. McQueen states writing a scene without dialogue is "about ritual.""Brandon (Michael Fassbender) is getting out of bed each morning, wiping the sleep from his eyes, switches the button around the responding to machine, requires a shower and catches a train," he states. In a few minutes he's around the prowl for his next liaison. "It is a type of ritual -- once he will get up in the mattress, it's like 'Go,'?" McQueen states.For "Jane Eyre" film writer Moira Buffini, writing moments left without words is "the majority of the job." She states she creates to light up, using from "the type of kitchenware the figures could use, towards the banks of storm clouds on the horizon.InchBuffini was very impressed with Jane Eyre's passion for drawing and painting, so she authored that in to the script."There's one small scene within the film where on her behalf method to mattress one evening, Jane holds her candle up to and including picture of the naked lady that Rochester has presented on the wall. I authored 'She studies it by having an artist's curiosity -- along with a girl's.' The scene very simply reveals Jane's sexual awakening to us," Buffini states.Like Hazanavicius, Buffini attempted to be really obvious in her own writing for that actor, as when explaining a particular emotion."For instance, instead of saying, 'She is tearful,' say 'She is battling to contain her tears.' That's active," she states.EYE Around The Academy awards: THE Author Secrets exact harsh toll Writers' words craft indelible images Vet spice newcomer class Waking bad dreams Contact the range newsroom at news@variety.com

2012 Spirit Award Nominations Announced

The Artist, Drive & more up for gongsAwards season is in full swing now, and naturally all the various ceremonies are getting their lists out there. Today sees the turn of the Spirit Awards, which honours films made for less than $20 million by US producers.And from the looks of the list, the teams behind Drive, Take Shelter, 50/50 and The Artist all look to be in with a chance of going home with a gong or two.The awards will be handed out at the usual beach locale in LA on February 25, the day before the Oscars. Check out a list of the major categories below.BEST FEATURE50/50BeginnersDriveTake ShelterThe ArtistThe DescendantsBEST DIRECTORMike Mills, BeginnersNicholas Winding Refn, DriveJeff Nichols, Take ShelterMichel Hazanavicius, The ArtistAlexander Payne, The DescendantsBEST FIRST FEATURE Another EarthIn The FamilyMargin CallMartha Marcy May MarleneNatural SelectionJOHN CASSAVETES AWARD BellflowerCircumstanceHello LonesomePariahThe DynamiterBEST SCREENPLAYJoseph Cedar, FootnoteMichel Hazanavicius, The ArtistTom McCarthy, Win WinMike Mills, BeginnersAlexander Payne, Nat Faxon & Jim Rash, The DescendantsBEST FIRST SCREENPLAYMike Cahill & Brit Marling, Another EarthJ.C. Chandor, Margin CallPatrick DeWitt, TerriPhil Johnston, Cedar RapidsWill Reiser, 50/50BEST FEMALE LEADLauren Ambrose, Think Of MeRachel Harris, Natural SelectionAdepero Oduye, PariahElizabeth Olsen, Martha Marcy May MarleneMichelle Williams, My Week With MarilynBEST MALE LEADDemian Bichir, A Better LifeJean Dujardin, The ArtistRyan Gosling, DriveWoody Harrelson, RampartMichael Shannon, Take ShelterBEST SUPPORTING FEMALEJessica Chastain, Take ShelterAngelica Huston, 50/50Janet McTeer, Albert NobbsHarmony Santana, Gun Hill RoadShailene Woodley, The DescendantsBEST SUPPORTING MALEAlbert Brooks, DriveJohn Hawkes, Martha Marcy May MarleneChristopher Plummer, BeginnersJohn C. Reilly, Cedar RapidsCorey Stoll, Midnight In ParisBEST CINEMATOGRAPHYJoel Hodge, BellflowerBenjamin Kasulke, The Off HoursDarius Khondji, Midnight In ParisGuillaume Schiffman, The ArtistJeffrey Waldron, The DynamiterBEST DOCUMENTARYAn African ElectionBill Cunningham NYThe InterruptersThe Redemption Of General Butt NakedWe Were HereBEST FOREIGN FILMA SeparationMelancholiaShameThe Kid With A BikeTyrannosaurROBERT ALTMAN AWARD Margin Call

'A.N.T. Farm' will return

'A.N.T. Farm'Disney Funnel has restored "A.N.T. Farm" for any second season following the newcomer half-hour grew to become no. 1 series on television one of the 6-11 and 9-14 demos.China Anne McClain stars within the skein, that has averaged 2. million audiences among kids 6-11 and 1.six million in kids 9-14 since its premiere in May. Serta Signer produced "A.N.T. Farm" and professional produces with Stephen Engel for It Is A Laugh Prods. Sierra McCormick, Mike Short, Stefanie Scott and Carlon Jeffery co-star. The renewal improves McClain's status as Disney Channel's latest signing-acting prodigy, following the kind of Miley Cyrus and Selena Gomez. McClain works frequently around the series and, at 13, has already been signed to some Hollywood Records contract. She's focusing on an album together with her siblings Sierra and Lauryn.An "A.N.T. Farm" soundtrack album launched in October spent five days atop the Billboard kids album ratings. Contact Jon Weisman at jon.weisman@variety.com

Honours season: And they're off

The Weinsteins' quiet pic 'The Artist' won best feature within the NY Film Experts Circle additionally to acquired five Spirit nods on Tuesday.Kaira Pitt needed home NYFCC's Best Actor award for his perfs in 'The Tree of Life' and 'Moneyball.'With 88 days to go to just before the 84th Academy awards, the kudos season's first responders unleashed a flurry of small experience Tuesday morning but no major surprises or clearness in the race with no apparent leader plus an enigmatic new Oscar voting system. Yes, a basic, black-and-white-colored film starring French stars is actually a contender this year. Absolutely, Kaira Pitt's portrayal of Concord A's gm Billy Beane in "Moneyball" needs to be taken heed of. And three photos -- "Take Shelter," "Beginners" and "Martha Marcy May Marlene" -- put themselves in the spotlight at the begining of goings.In La, Film Independent introduced its Spirit Award nominations, with "The Artist" and "Take Shelter" leading at five each. Back East, the NY Film Experts Circle was busy crowning "The Artist" best feature and picking Pitt and Meryl Streep ("The Iron Lady") for acting honors.The bicoastal barrage introduced a good start to Alexander Payne's "The Descendants" (Spirit noms for feature and supporting actress Shailene Woodley, though George Clooney was excluded) and Sean Durkin's "Martha Marcy May Marlene," which acquired first feature, director and lead actress Spirit noms, along with the NYFCC's first-feature recognition. Focus Features' "Beginners" also managed to move on getting a Spirit nom put in the Gotham Award it won late Monday.Fox Searchlight's "The Tree of Existence," Terrence Malick's divisive film that shared the Gotham Award with "Beginners," exceeded the Spirit Awards' $20 million being qualified limit but was honored with the Gotham experts for cinematography (and shared a little of acting citations for Pitt and Jessica Chastain).But nothing developed a more effective statement than "The Artist," the quiet film that's acquired $204,878 since its release in four theaters Friday. Its pack-leading five Spirit noms and greatest feature recognition within the NYFCC -- in addition to director honors in the two caser for Michel Hazanavicius plus an actor nomination for Jean Dujardin -Place the film squarely inside the search. Org's top pick went onto obtain a best picture Oscar nomination 13 occasions in the last 2 decades.InchThe Artist" was purchased at the start from the Cannes Film Festival with the Weinstein Co., that's mounting among its trademark campaigns. The other day within an Academy screening, Harvey Weinstein introduced along Charlie Chaplin's granddaughters inside an ode to Hollywood's quiet-film era. Oscar glory for "The Artist" is a crowning achievement for old Harvey themselves: The ultimate time a basic film was nominated for top picture was 1929 ("The Patriot") -- which is been nearly 2 decades since a black-and-white-colored film remains nommed ("Schindler's List"). Omissions among the day's honorees include Paramount's "Constantly,Inch a largely improvised film from Drake Doremus which were receiving specific buzz but emerged empty Oscilloscope's "We must Discuss Kevin," that's obtaining a significant honours push for Tilda Swinton and Woodsy Allen's "Evening amount of time in Paris," which acquired basically a Spirit nom for supporting actor Corey Stoll and zilch within the NYFCC.Our prime-profile films that went empty-handed on Tuesday incorporated "The Woman While Using Dragon Tattoo," even though The brand new the new sony had arranged a distinctive, first-look screening for your NYFCC. However, these honours overlap with early election primaries. You will discover still much more honours votes later on -- the country's Board of Review will weigh in Thursday -- which honours aren't exactly guaranteed bellwethers. A year ago, "Black Swan" won the Spirit and "The Social MediaInch needed the NY crix jerk, while "The King's Speech" showed up inside the Oscar winner's circle.(Stuart Oldham, Dork McNary and Gordon Cox brought with this story.) Contact Variety Staff at news@variety.com

Downgrade sinks Netflix stock

Netflix stock stumbled Tuesday after a downgrade by S&P, while the company's chief financial officer David Wells defended its strategy on all fronts -- foreign expansion, a host of nonexclusive content deals and last week's move to raise $400 million in a stock and debt sale to cushion its balance sheet. Wells told investors at the Credit Suisse Technology Conference that Netflix is working to "bring the brand back brick by brick" after several flubs this year provoked a subscriber revolt. "I think this is a long-term thing that we have to live with. It will take a little bit of time for it to come back," he said. The once high-flying shares closed down 3.4%, or $2.38, at $67.57 after Standard & Poor's late Monday cut its rating on the company's debt to BB- from BB, citing spending on content and international expansion that will continue to erode profits. Netflix has said it expects red ink in 2012 on new international services in the U.K. and Ireland. The agency also thinks it may take longer than anticipated for domestic subscriber growth to resume. Netflix's meteoric growth slammed to a halt last quarter. It ended September with 23.79 million U.S. subs, down from 24.59 million the previous quarter. The company effectively raised the price of its original DVD service and tried, then canceled plans, to rebrand it. Wells reiterated the company's prediction that net subscriber additions will turn positive for the month of December. Analysts estimate Netflix will spend about $1 billion on content deals for its streaming service in 2011 and see that rising to $1.9 billion next year. Netflix doesn't disclose those numbers but has said it expects spending to nearly double. Wells clarified that the "nearly" means the company is looking at an increase of about 78%. He said there is money set aside for renewals and "opportunity buys." Only about 15% of the budget is earmarked for exclusive or original programming -- a conscious decision by company execs. "Exclusivity matters when you have to be differentiated and for now there is no one in our direct space, so it's important to have more...less exclusivity and more content," Wells said. As for international, Wells acknowledged that the U.K. market is highly competitive, a downside, but said that's offset by the fact that it's smoother sailing given the higher degree of device penetration. "We don't have to do the marketing and heavy lifting of demonstrating to people" how streaming works, he said. Contact the Variety newsroom at news@variety.com

John McCain: Daughter Meghan 'Went Over to the Dark Side' (Video)

Arizona Senator John McCain gave his two cents about his daughter Meghan's recent move to MSNBC as a paid contributor.our editor recommendsMedia Analyst Slams NBC News for Hiring 'Impostor' Chelsea Clinton10 Entertainers Democrats and Republicans Love to Hate "She went over to the dark side I guess," McCain said to Don Imus on the Fox Business Network. McCain added that he was proud of his daughter. PHOTOS: 10 Entertainers Democrats and Republicans Love to Hate "She's feisty. Being over there she is going to have to have quite a bit of that," the former Republican presidential candidate said. "I'm sure she will fight for the things she and I believe in over there and I wish her every success." STORY: John McCain's Daughter Makes MSNBC Debut as Paid Contributor Meghan McCain was hired on as a staffer earlier in November to cover the Republican presidential candidates and GOP primary. "It's a unique opportunity to share my perspective as a Republican on a network I respect and have built a relationship with over the past two years," the younger McCain said in a statement announcing her new position. PHOTOS: Democrats and Republicans' Favorite Movies McCain, who has openly announced her support for Mitt Romney, has been a guest on MSNBC since 2009. She also wrote a memoir, Dirty Sexy Politics, about her time on the campaign trail with her father. STORY: Media Analyst Slams NBC News for Hiring 'Impostor' Chelsea Clinton Meghan McCain is not the only politician's daughter to get on the NBC News payroll. Chelsea Clinton joined the network in November as a correspondent for the newsmagazine Rock Center with Brain Williams where she'll contribute to the "Making a Difference" series. Watch the latest video at video.foxbusiness.com PHOTO GALLERY: View Gallery 10 Entertainers Democrats and Republicans Love to Hate Related Topics MSNBC Fox Business Channel Politics

The earth the planet pandora Posts Surprise Third-Quarter Profit

NY - The earth the planet pandora Media on Tuesday reported enhanced third-quarter financials and released an unpredicted profit. The web music company reported a little quarterly profit of $638,000, in contrast getting a $1.8 million loss around-ago period. Wall Street experts had forecast a loss of profits. Revenue rose ninety-nine percent to $75 million, doubling a year ago's $37.7 million. Email: Georg.Szalai@thr.com Twitter: @georgszalai Related Subjects Earnings

Ascot nabs Finecut's 'Leafie'

SEOUL -- Sales house Finecut has revealed several deals inked in the American Film Market. Ascot Elite acquired Korean animation "Leafie," which cumed $13 million on home turf, for German-speaking areas and Conquest Filmes required South america. It had formerly been offered to many areas, including Italia, Poultry, Indonesia, Portugal, Middle East and also the former USSR nations (excluding the Baltic nations). Hit local thriller "Blind" was offered for Japan (King Records) and Malaysia and Brunei (Hwa Yea Multimedia), after recent deals for German-speaking areas (MFA+), Taiwan (Bald eagle Worldwide Communication), and Thailand (STG). Summer time horror title "The KittyInch was offered for Japan (Magnetar) and French-speaking areas (Mercury), additionally to the previous sales for Singapore and Malaysia (Scorpio East), Taiwan (Bald eagle Worldwide) and Indonesia (DCU Home Theatre). The comedy movie "Easy Family" added deals for Japan (JoyNContents), Taiwan (Bald eagle Worldwide) and U.S. (CJ CGV). JoyNContents also acquired "Heartbeat," starring Yunjin Kim. Contact the range newsroom at news@variety.com

Springsteen announces 2012 tour

Bruce Springsteen announced Sunday night that he and the E Street Band will tour the globe in 2012.While rumors of an upcoming Springsteen tour have been circulating for months, the tour -- as well as an upcoming album -- was made official on the singer-songwriter's website:"Well, things are starting to heat up down on E Street."A lot of you have been hearing that Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band will be on tour in 2012. That is absolutely correct. The European dates run from the middle of May until end of July and are being announced this week. Info on the U.S. dates and the world tour dates will coming up shortly."In addition, we want you to know that the music is almost done (but still untitled), we have almost settled on the release date (but not quite yet), and that we are all incredibly excited about everything that we're planning for 2012. That's all the info we have for right now, but we'll get back to you -- real soon."This will be the first E Street Band tour following the death of longtime saxophonist Clarence Clemons, who passed away at age 69 on June 18 this year following a massive stroke.The last time Springsteen and the E Street Band were on the road, they were finishing up their two-year "Magic"/"Working on a Dream" tour in Buffalo in November 2009. Contact Stuart Levine at stuart.levine@variety.com

Academy awards: John Grazer & Robert Lorenz Open Files On Clint Eastwoods J. Edgar

This is actually the second production collaboration between Imagine Entertainment co-chairman BrianGrazer and Clint Eastwood’s Malpaso Productions partner Robert Lorenz. (The very first was 2008s The Changeling). J. Edgar was encircled byintrigue and intensity in the startof the film, that was switched lower by Universal since the studio didn’t need to make another period film.A Malibu meeting between Grazer and Eastwood paved the way in which for Warner Bros release a this montha fascinating take a look at probably the most complicated figures ever, his abuse of energy, and also the devils that haunted him. Central towards the movie may be the incredible pedigree ofclint like a director Eastwood, and also the effective performances by Leonardo Di Caprio,Armie Hammer, Naomi W, and Judi Dench. Before J. Edgar hit theaters, AwardsLine contributor Ari Karpel spokewith Grazer and Lorenz to go over biopics in age dirty Oscarcampaigns, Clint Eastwoods difficult-to-classify politics, and also the challenge ofmaking serious films within an frequently frivolous age: AWARDSLINE: Tostart, let me know about how exactly this project found be, right from the start. Grazer: I figured it might be interesting tomake a film about Hoover because hes this type of complex character.Younger crowd, typically, came from theFBI.He certainly sustained it. So, I pitched it to Universal plus they likedit.I met with author Dustin LanceBlack after which pitched it to him.Hesaid hed been considering such like.He likes energy structures exactly the same way I likepower structures. So while wewere developing it, Id seen Leonardo a few occasions just delicately. He was conscious that i was developing Hooverwith Lance Black.He appeared excited bythe concept of either reading through it and maybe even doing the work.Piece of software is available in and Universal chose to not doit.I recommended we create it for Take advantage of forClint as well as for Take advantage of themself.Get married alreadyhad an excellent experience together on TheChangeling with Julia Roberts.He readit, loved it and rapidly spoken to his partner there, Clint Eastwood. They stated were in. Then that got Leo tosay Ill get it done. AWARDSLINE: The topic matter didn’t give anybody pause? Lorenz: Whatever work John and Lance had doneprior was working since the script arrived and that we both felt it had been reallysmart and intriguing.Hoover, whomeveryones acquainted with because the director from the FBI, can also be this characterthats encircled in mystery because hes hiding secrets and that he has thispersonal existence that everybody has questions regarding.It simply appeared just like a great subject for amovie. Grazer: I believe that many the topics withinthe movie are relevant today and therefore are much more relevant today somewhat.When Lancestarted writing it just before Clint and Sucks participation, he did lots of researchon it visited the FBI after which as Take advantage of and Clint grew to become involved, we justcontinued to analyze.That is where a lot of the storyline will get completed because they men are wonderful.Clint and Take advantage of are simply great scientists. I believe we designed a point tohave it's as accurate because it are able to be and get ready the aspects thatwouldnt overtake the central story. AWARDSLINE: Clearly,Lance who won an Oscar for his Milk script, is really a naturally political person and incredibly progressive in the politics. Similarly, Clint is another naturallypolitical person, though more conservative.Was that the type of delicate dance in some manner with this particular project? Lorenz: Well, I dont think so.People attempt to label him a conservative.But Im always astounded by how progressive afigure he's.I believe should you take a look at thesubject matter in the selection of films during the last many years you canreally observe that.I am talking about selecting to complete Flags in our Fathers and extremely sort ofglamorizing the People in america which war after which countering by using theJapanese perspective was something which for a number of veterans hardened them up tothink that Clint would try to tell their side from the story.They resent any have to do that. Grazer: I believe hes singularly been sosuccessful at performing these great American tragedies.I have no idea if either Take advantage of or I've seenanyone else succeeding on his level doing films which are so difficult.He picks these very hard and complexsubjects and finds methods to create natural movies which make sense. AWARDsLINE: Ofcourse were in this polarized political culture, even just in the Oscar races.John, out of your experience withA Beautiful Mind — which wasprobably probably the most assaulted movie when it comes to the opposition — so how exactly does thatshape the way you get into creating a movie such as this that's a likely Oscar contender? Grazer: Well, to begin with, Take advantage of and that i canonly hope that it is considered with this type of potential.Thatd do well.So far as ABeautiful Mind, I believe debate comes when you are getting drawn into therace.It was not really as controversialwhen we designed a Beautiful Mind as itwas when individuals began rivaling one another.About this movie, Clint has handled such toughsubjects, and so i thought he'd work best with this not just being an artist butsomeone who always struggles and struggles and finds the reality insubjects.I believe people, his criticsand individuals who work inside the business all of them kind of believe if anyonesgoing to test a difficult subject and get it done with honesty its likely to be Clint. AWARDSLINE: Yousaid Universal didnt do initially. Why was that? Grazer: Once Clint stated hewas thinking about doing the work, Universal might have started to exactly the same conclusion tomake it.However I think they werent goingto arrived at that conclusion that rapidly whereas, Clint see clearly and Take advantage of read itand they'd a whole lot of passion and emergency. Clints pretty busy constantly, so Take advantage of andClint and that i, to some extent, required it to Warner Bros these were prepared to makeit immediately. AWARDSLINE: Whatdid Universal have a problem with?Could it have been thetopic, your budget or what? GRAZER: I have no idea.I believe its challenging dramas made rightnow, right, Take advantage of? LORENZ: Yeah.Thats exactly the same factor Warner battled with.You will find limitations onto it when it comes to thebudget size.It had been a dangerous proposition that the historic drama would make back a large amount of cash unless of course itturned out perfect, which It has. GRAZER: A film such as this, everyone takes alot less cash and the majority a smaller amount of everything. Make it in a verysmart cost. [Editors note: They're saying J. Edgars production cost arrived just below $40 million].Somewhat, youre thinking I really hope peoplesee it and enjoy it or like it the way in which we like it. You aren't considering it exactly the same way youthink of the event movie.You simply cantframe it this way. AWARDSLINE: Now,certainly Clint’s clearly had incredible box office and Oscar success with MillionDollar Baby and Unforgiven.Itseems like his last couple of movies havent received the interest from the Academy thathis previous ones have.Im curious fromboth individuals the reason why you think that's. GRAZER: I believe a variety of it may be the subject andthe theme.I believe that one has individuals andits additionally a tour p pressure.So, I thinkwe might are able. LORENZ: Weve been available each year with aproject.I believe enthusiasm goes backand forth.I believe the timing is rightto open this specific project.

Watch Amanda Seyfried Throw Punches and Track Down a Serial Killer Solo in Gone Trailer

“I’ll sleep when he’s dead!” Amanda Seyfried declares in the new trailer for Gone, referencing the serial killer who has kidnapped her onscreen sis. You see, Seyfried’s character Jill is frustrated because no one in her small town believes that the serial killer who kidnapped her two years ago has now kidnapped her sister. That’s because they didn’t believe Jill’s story to begin with (and they’re probably bored with Jill’s cliched dialogue). So now it’s just Jill vs. a ticking clock vs. an unsupportive police squad who tries to convince Jill that this serial killer drama is all in her head. The thriller is from Brazilian director Heitor Dhalia and co-stars Wes Bentley, Dexter’s Jennifer Carpenter and Michael Par. Gone seems vaguely reminiscent of Kiss the Girls, which also featured a female kidnapping victim who manages to escape a serial killer’s underground lair and (attempts to) rescue the other female hostages. Gone arrives in theaters February 24. VERDICT: As the title (shared by seven forgettable films before it) suggests, this thriller will be gone from viewer memory almost instantly. [via Yahoo!]

REVIEW: The Lie Explores the Self-Defeat of Committing by Halves - But Only By Half

First-time director Joshua Leonard’s The Lie stretches the truth of its source material — an obsidian fragment from author T.C. Boyle, published by the NYer in 2008 — until its every glint is polished to a self-affirming glow. There’s a dark crackle to Boyle’s first-person account of a young man compressed to the point of fracture by the drudgery of his work as a tape logger at a film production house and the shackling disappointment of his domestic lot: He has a law student wife and an infant at home. Unable to face another day at the digital mine, the young man’s avoidant, off-white fibbing gives way to an inky whopper, and his sins soon yield a shopping bag full of money. If two decades of Coen brothers movies have taught us anything, it’s this: As good as a gun, that thing’s going to go off. The short story ends in a streak offstage. The Lie has trouble narrowing itself into the same nervy tone, and expands outward instead, away from character or aesthetic and into the narrative of booh-joi redemption handled so nimbly in Lost in America. Leonard — the Humpday actor last seen playing a God-fearing husband to Vera Farmiga in her directing debut, Higher Ground — adapted Boyle’s story (the three lead actors share writing credit along with Jeff Feuerzeig) and cast himself in the lead as Lonnie, now a thirty-something editor at a Los Angeles commercial house. Lonnie’s wife, Clover (Jessica Weixler), is a lawyer who early on in the film announces that she’s considering a job offer from a (gasp!) drug company. Clover drops the news at a dinner party attended by an affluent couple and their less fancy but very mobile friend Tank (Mark Webber). An old musician friend of Lonnie’s, Tank is perfecting an edible skin care line in his beach-side trailer, where there’s always a laundry line of gitch flapping free in the coastal winds. The dinner party, which follows an opening scene of Lonnie laying down the symptoms of modern life (anxious, joyless, not sleeping, hates job) to hustle a medicinal marijuana prescription out of a shrink (Jane Adams), presents the couple’s options: Batten down, sell out, and start saving for that designer stroller, or live an attenuated, gitch-flapping life on the fringe. For one of them, at least, the choice is clear. Hectored by his foul-mouthed boss (Gerry Bednob) for slacker infractions, Lonnie concocts a lie about his six-month-old daughter’s health to get out of a day at work. After a leisurely breakfast he shows up at Tank’s trailer to record that demo they’ve been talking about for God knows how long — and it’s a soul crusher, all right. Home in time to dice up some mea culpa mango chutney for his wife (he did not take the news of her job prospect well), Lonnie is calmed momentarily — until, that is, his alarm clock goes off again the next morning. What happens next sets off a cycle of potentially black comic events that slowly elude Leonard’s grasp. Forget the dubious timing of grumbling about paid employment when 10 percent of us should be so lucky; earnest portent creeps into the handling of Lonnie’s big lie, so that the ghastliness of it comes off as neither comic nor tragic — more like one of those coerced confessions you hear about but never quite understand. There also seems to be little awareness of the extent to which the alternatives Lonnie and Clover float for themselves — lying in a tomato patch 4ever or, more seriously, “jumping in a car and joining an advocacy group in Portland” — are not an escape from bourgeois ideals but an extension of them into a more comfy fit. Embedded in The Lie is a sharp look at the moral limbo of a complacent life, the self-defeat of committing by halves, the self-interest of false equivalencies — but only the shallowest attempts are made to chip its themes out. It’s the shallowness of the explicit, particularly when it comes to Lonnie’s mealy outbursts and Leonard’s tendency to hang onto favored shots until they ossify. (Cinematographers Ben Kasulke and Brigitta Csiki develop a striking contrast between scenic LA and its smudgy interiors.) Weixler has a changeable beauty and natural, responsive quality that is ill-served by this tendency; though you can hardly blame the director for leaning on her expressive face in critical moments, those extra beats turn performance into portraiture. “We’re allowed to change things, right?” Lonnie asks Clover, after his nuclear cloud of deceit begins to clear. As my generation begins telling these familiar stories, it’s a question I find myself asking more and more. Follow Michelle Orange on Twitter. Follow Movieline on Twitter.

Fest without relaxation

That Chinese carpet at Grauman's got exercising the other day within the AFI Fest. On November. 7, the Weinstein Co.'s "Coriolanus" shared the spotlight getting a revival of Pedro Almodovar's 1987 pic "Law of Desire." Round the Bard pic, Take advantage of Fiennes recognized being tense within the moments with Gerard Butler. "He's very good. I desired to get a grip on him physically. I used to be somewhat intimidated certainly.Inch "Law of Desire" star Antonio Banderas held a little press conference round the carpet. Each time a reporter asked for if there's anything the earth would never know from the The the spanish language language helmer, Banderas joked, "He's a girl. Everybody knows already." That same evening, in the Egyptian, Magnolia's "I Melt Together With YouInch presented the whole gang, including Thomas Jane, Make the most of Lowe, Carla Gugino, Sasha Grey and Jeremy Piven. Within the Hotel Roosevelt afterparty, Piven known towards the indie shoot of a debauched reunion, helmed by Mark Pellington, as "guerrilla-style filmmaking. I had been all within it together, huddled on the floor and eating from paper plates. I'd pretty much as good of your energy as you may have being totally gutted." The following evening, Jean Dujardin experienced the Hollywood spirit by striking a few quiet celebrity poses for your cameras, while his "The Artist" co-star Berenice Bejo looked on as you're watching Chinese. Director Michel Hazanavicius doubted the Weinstein Co. release brings back B&W silents. But he remains a follower. "I really love that period as it is really telegenic," he mentioned. "Putting the knowledge in Hollywood offers the movie a sizable star, because Hollywood can be a large star. I believed it could (ensure it is) more worldwide plus much more sexy." Contact the number newsroom at news@variety.com

Cooper Won't Be The Man From UNCLE

He's no longer in talks for the filmOne of the downsides to being a man in demand is that sometimes schedules clash like angry dogs and you have to let one project slip when another wins out. While we're not 100% certain that's the reason Bradley Cooper has decided to drop out of negotiations for Warner Bros. movie adaptation of spy TV show The Man From U.N.C.L.E., it might be a big factor.It's another blow for the film, which has already seen George Clooney skip taking on the role on Napoleon Solo (the part Cooper was then offered). Warners has been through the usual wide sweep looking to attract name talent, and Joel Edgerton is still rumoured as a possible Illya Kuryakin, Solo's partner.For those who don't recall the original, U.N.C.L.E. was the light-hearted series that ran between 1964 and 1968 with Robert Vaughn as Solo and David McCallum as Kuryakin. The pair were international agents intent on stopping the evil machinations of diabolical outfit T.H.R.U.S.H., which constantly plotted to make things uncomfortable for the world. While the original show birthed spin-off The Girl From U.N.C.L.E. and a few expanded episodes shown in cinemas, this would be the first full-blown film version.Right now, U.N.C.L.E. still has Steven Soderbergh attached to direct from Contagion writer Scott Z Burns' script.

Exclusive: Bent Adds Brother & Siblings, Curb Your Enthusiasm Alums

Matt Letscher, JB Smoove Siblings & Siblings alum Matt Letscher and Curb Your Enthusiasm's J.B. Smoove have became a member of the NBC midseason comedy, Bent, TVGuide.com has learned solely. From Scrubs author Tad Quill, Bent follows Alex (Amanda Peet), a higher-put up single mom who employs a laid-back womanizing construction worker, Pete (David Walton), to redesign her home. The romantic comedy started production now. Take a look at photos from Bent Letscher, 41, will have the recurring role of Ben, the confident and wry physician boyfriend of Alex. However, their romance is rapidly offer the exam when Alex employs Pete to renovate her house. Smoove, 46, joins the cast as Clem, the electrical installer in Pete's oddball construction crew. Apart from romancing Cat Master on Siblings & Siblings, Letscher is renowned for his roles around the New Adventures of Old Christine and Hello, Miami. Smoove has made an appearance on Curb Your Enthusiasm as Larry's smart-cracking roommate Leon Black since Season 6.

Boxing Legend Joe Frazier Dies At 67 After Fight With Cancer

First Released: November 8, 2011 12:15 AM EST Credit: WireImage PHILADELPHIA, Pa. -- Caption Professional Boxer Smokin Joe Frazier attends the Cinemax Documentary Screening of Thrilla in Manila at Cinemax Theatre, New york city, on April 1, 2009He beat Muhammad Ali within the Fight from the Century, fought him nearly towards the dying within the Thrilla in Manila. Then Joe Frazier spent the relaxation of his existence attempting to fight his way to avoid it of Alis shadow. Which was one fight Frazier could never win. He used to be a heavyweight champion, along with a great one at this. Ali would say just as much after Frazier knocked him lower within the 15th round on the way to becoming the very first guy to conquer Ali at Madison Square Garden in March 1971. But he bore the responsibility to be Alis foil, and that he compensated the cost. Bitter for a long time concerning the taunts his former enemy once put his way, Frazier only in recent occasions found terms using what happened previously and stated he'd pardoned Ali for everything he stated. Frazier, who died Monday evening following a brief fight with liver cancer at age 67, will forever be associated with Ali. But nobody in boxing would ever imagine anointing Ali because the Finest unless of course he, too, was associated with Smokin Joe. You cannot mention Ali and not mention Joe Frazier, stated former AP boxing author Erectile dysfunction Schuyler Junior. He beat Ali, remember that. They fought against three occasions, two times in the middle of NY City and when each morning inside a steamy arena within the Philippines. They went 41 models together, with neither giving an inch and both passing on their all. Within their last fight in Manila in 1975, they exchanged punches having a fervor that appeared unthinkable among heavyweights. Frazier gave nearly as good as he got for 14 models, then needed to take place back by trainer Eddie Futch because he attempted to visit out for that final round, not able to determine. Nearest factor to dying which i are conscious of, Ali stated after. Ali was as cruel with Frazier from the ring because he was within it. He known as him a gorilla, and mocked him being an Uncle Tom. But he respected him like a fighter, especially after Frazier won a choice to protect his heavyweight title from the then-unbeaten Ali inside a fight which was so large Frank Sinatra was shooting pictures at front row and both martial artists gained an impressive $2.5 million. The evening in the Garden 4 decades ago continued to be fresh in Fraziers mind because he spoken about his existence, career and relationship with Ali a couple of several weeks before he died. I cant go nowhere where it is not pointed out, he told The Connected Press. Which was the finest factor that ever happened during my existence. Though slowed down in the old age and the speech slurred through the toll of punches drawn in the ring, Frazier was still being participating in the autograph circuit within the several weeks before he died. In September he visited Vegas, where he signed autographs within the lobby from the MGM Grand hotel-casino shortly before Floyd Mayweather Junior.s combat Victor Ortiz. A classic friend, Gene Kilroy, visited with him and viewed Frazier work everyone else. He am nice to everyone, Kilroy stated. He'd tell all of them, `Joe Frazier, sharp like a razor, what is your title? Frazier was small for any heavyweight, weighing just 205 pounds when he won the title by preventing Jimmy Ellis within the fifth round of the 1970 fight at Madison Square Garden. But he fought against every minute of each and every round moving forward behind a vicious left hook, and there have been couple of martial artists who could withstand his constant pressure. His reign as heavyweight champion survived only four fights such as the conquer Ali before he went into a much more fearsome slugger than themself. George Foreman taken care of immediately Fraziers constant attack by shedding him three occasions within the first round and three more within the second before their 1973 fight in Jamaica was waved to some close and also the world were built with a new heavyweight champion. Two fights later, he met Ali inside a rematch of the first fight, only this time around the end result was different. Ali won a 12-round decision, and then that year stopped George Foreman within the Rumble within the Jungle in Zaire. There needed to be considered a third fight, though, and such a fight it had been. With Alis heavyweight title on the line, the 2 met in Manila inside a fight which will lengthy be seared in boxing history. Frazier attacked Ali round after round, landing his left hook with regularity because he made Ali backpedal round the ring. But Ali responded with left injections and right hands that found their mark over and over. The intense warmth within the arena couldnt stop the 2 because they fought against every minute of each and every round with neither prepared to concede another one second from the round. They explained Joe Frazier was through, Ali told Frazier at some point throughout your dream. They lied, Frazier stated, before striking Ali having a left hook. Finally, though, Frazier simply couldnt see and Futch wouldn't allow him to venture out for that 15th round. Ali won your dream during his stool, exhausted and considering themself whether to take. It had been among the finest fights ever, however it required a toll. Frazier would fight only two more occasions, getting bumped out inside a rematch with Foreman eight several weeks later before returning almost 30 years ago to have an ill advised fight with Jumbo Cummings. They ought to have both upon the market following the Manila fight, Schuyler stated. They left just of talent they'd within the ring on that day. Born in Beaufort, S.C., on Jan 12, 1944, Frazier required up boxing early after watching weekly fights around the black and whitened television on his familys small farm. He would be a top amateur for quite some time, and grew to become the only real American fighter to win a gold medal within the 1964 Olympic games in Tokyo, japan despite fighting within the final bout by having an hurt left thumb. Joe Frazier ought to be appreciated among the finest martial artists ever along with a real guy, promoter Bob Arum told the AP inside a telephone interview Monday evening. Hes a man that was up for themself. He didnt compromise and try to gave 100 % within the ring. There is never a battle within the ring where Joe didnt give 100 %. After turning professional in 1965, Frazier rapidly grew to become noted for his punching energy, preventing his first 11 competitors. Within 3 years he was fighting world-class opposition and, in 1970, beat Ellis to win the heavyweight title he would hold in excess of 2 yrs. It had been his fights with Ali, though, that will define Frazier. Though Ali was gracious in defeat within the first fight, he was as vicious together with his words because he was together with his punches in marketing the 3 fights and that he never skipped an opportunity to obtain a jab in at Frazier. Frazier, who in the old age might have financial trouble and finish up managing a gym in the adopted home town of Philadelphia, required the injections personally. He felt Ali made fun of him by calling him names and stated stuff that weren't true simply to get under his skin. Individuals feelings were only magnified as Ali went from becoming an icon within the ring to probably the most beloved people on the planet. Following a shaking Ali it the Olympic torch in 1996 in Atlanta, Frazier was requested with a reporter what he considered it. They ought to have tossed him in, Frazier responded. He mellowed, though, recently, choosing to consider the great from his fights with Ali as opposed to the bad. Right before the 40th anniversary of his conquer Ali captured each day Frazier celebrated with parties in NY he stated he no more felt any bitterness toward Ali. I forgive him, Frazier stated. Hes inside a bad way. Copyright 2011 through the Connected Press. All privileges reserved. These components might not be released, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

U.K. remains top competitive market

'The InBetweeners'The U.K. still remains probably the most competitive independent marketplaces on the planet. The crowded indie distribution sector is peppered having a raft of gamers with hefty financial resources: eOne, Studiocanal, Momentum/Alliance, Lionsgate and Entertainment Film Marketers are cash-wealthy, therefore if an image will do the job it isn't unusual to determine putting in a bid wars. Although this may be, each one is conscious to the fact that it is a competitive market and, typically, prices will not achieve crazy levels.However, these gamers all have the identical agenda -- they are searching for bigger films that they'll release wide. Years back, such photos might have were built with a home with one of the leading Hollywood marketers. Thinner production and distribution pipelines for that majors means quality along with a-list photos are trickling into indies."I do not think attitudes towards obtaining films have transformed that significantly," states Lionsgate U.K. topper Zygi Kamasa. "However, many of us are chasing after the larger, more commercial films."Indies are searching for wise, commercial photos that may click with U.K. auds in the box office.The theatrical market in Blighty is difficult. While box office has continued to be relatively stable in comparison to this past year around $1.7 billion, high P&A prices combined and among the cheapest film rental fees on the planet (indies take around 28% from the box office) make platforming a movie challenging.Furthermore, the marketplace is underscreened for the quantity of product being released every week, meaning distribs lose their screens rapidly when the film does not click immediately.DVD continues to be relatively robust within the territory in comparison with other marketplaces but TV sales are decreasing. BSkyB, with a monopoly around the pay TV market, typically offers indies much more compact deals -- if any -- compared to Hollywood majors and budget cuts over the free TV market mean gold coin from that sector is low.However, Amazon . com-possessed online film and TV subscription service Lovefilm is boosting its game within the indie sector. Service has inked exclusive handles a raft of indies including eOne and Studiocanal, whose game titles is going to be available with the service solely throughout its pay TV window. Along with the imminent arrival of Netflix in Blighty the coming year, distribs are seeing some hope coming -- although not an response to the difficulties on the market.InchThere is not always a restored confidence available on the market with one of these VOD services," states Momentum/Alliance topper Xavier Marchand. "It is simply changing the diminishing DVD market. While it is extremely good to possess them, it isn't the reply to our problems."Quantity of screens: 3,741Number of three dimensional screens: 1,472Top indie marketers and B.O. (from March. 15, 2010, to March. 16, 2011): Momentum Pictures/Alliance Films ($119,162,993) Entertainment Film Marketers ($114,446,951) Studiocanal ($72,490,718) eOne Films ($48,436,634) Lionsgate U.K. ($39,580,116)Top exhibition chains: Odeon, Cineworld, Vue (together, the 3 take into account roughly 70% from the U.K. cinema circuit).Typical minimum guarantee: Ranges from 7% to 10% from the budget of the film, but this greatly is dependent around the film. There's really no typical MG because the indie marketplace is so competitive.5 Best Indie Films (from March. 15, 2010, to March. 16, 2011): "The King's Speech" ($70,634,808) "The Inbetweeners" ($70,251,222) "Gnomeo and Juliet" ($24,842,560) "Mess, Tailor, Soldier, Spy" ($19,378,385) "Unlimited" ($12,995,917)Typical theatrical split: Differs from picture to picture but typically indies get under 30% from the box office while majors can perform better with as many as 45% for the best film.Approaching pick-ups: "The Artist" (Entertainment Film Marketers) "Headhunters" (Momentum Pictures/Alliance Films) "Rust and Bones" (Studiocanal) Contact Diana Lodderhose at diana.lodderhose@variety.com

HAMMOND: Gil Cates, A Man For All Oscars

R.I.P. Oscar Producer Gilbert Cates Among his many accomplishments, Gil Cates obviously will be known as the person who produced more Oscar shows than any one in the history of the Academy. Talk to any producer who has done it just once or twice and you will get this astonished look when you tell them Gil Cates did it 14 times in the last two decades. And with his always calm and cool manner, he made it look so easy. Perhaps that is why every producer doing the show in Gil’s off years always sought out his advice — and he always happily gave it as he told me when I interviewed him exactly one year ago about his memories on being the man behind so many Oscarcasts. “I’ve had lunch with each producer and producing team going back to my off years,” he told me. “The one thing I’ve told everybody is the Oscars is such a big show that no matter what you do there are gonna be people who like it and people who don’t. The most important thing is to do a show you like. There’s no way to get out totally alive. Do a show they find unique and fun and special. That’s a victory.” Gil Cates had a lot of victories in his long career. As a former president of the DGA, its current secretary/treasurerand its chief negotiator for the last four contracts; as founder of the UCLA School of Theatre, Film and Television; founder and artistic director of the Geffen Playhouse; as director and producer of such multiple-Oscar-nominated films as Summer Wishes, Winter Dreams and I Never Sang For My Father; as well as so many TV films that made a lasting mark on the medium. There’s so much more, but my own personal connection (aside from attending the great theater he oversaw at the Geffen) has always been with the Oscars, and on those occasions when I got to talk to him or interview him I was like a kid in a candy store listening to his stories (sorry, some I just can’t print — off the record). His last show aired in 2008, the year No Country For Old Men won Best Picture. But this was also the year of the writers strike that KO’d the Golden Globes and put a dark cloud over the Oscars until just 12 days before the show was to air, when it was settled. But Cates, with his usual calm of a master negotiator and problem solver, had a Plan A (with all the stars in a strike-free show)and a Plan B (with no stars but aheavy emphasis on history and clips)ready to go, essentially prepping two different shows simultaneously, depending on events out of his control. It’s a good thing he was in charge because a lesser or more inexperienced producer might have cracked under the pressure. Not Gil. In the end, he produced a classy, star-studded show as usual but was ready to deliver whatever cards were dealt. Andthe challenging experience of that show didn’tsour him on the thrill he got every time up at bat. He told me he was ready to do more. “I’ve always loved doing it. I would love to do it another five or six times. I don’t know how anyone can get tired doing it,” he said. Sadly he never got to do it again. And in those 14 shows he never really stopped innovating despite the annual criticism that goes with the territory of doing the impossible and making an Oscar show that pleases everybody. “One year (in 2005)I gave many of the awards in the audience. I thought it was novel and fun. A lot of folks thought it was too novel. Obviously I didn’t do it the following year,” he told me. “You have to respect the Academy and respect the purpose of the awards and then do something that has your own unique feel on it.” He was proud of all the hosts he brought into the show including Billy Crystal, Whoopi Goldberg, Steve Martin, Chris Rock, Jon Stewart and even David Letterman, whose infamous “Uma … Oprah” bits did not go over big (even Letterman regularly bad-mouths his own performance). Cates told me he thought Letterman did just fine and in his typical gentlemanly manner refused to throw him under the bus when I asked whether in hindsighthe regretted bringing him in. “The host is the key. My own favorite hosts are people who have had experience with stand up comedy because once you’ve played a lot of houses with drunken people and people who don’t care and people whose attention is elsewhere you build up an ability,” he said. In other words you are ready to host the OSCARS. Cates proved himself with grace under fire right from the very first show he produced in 1990. It was the year after the infamous “Snow White/Rob Lowe” show that Allan Carr produced, and a lot of high-profile Academy members were horrified and complainedloudly. Disney even threatened to sue. Cates led a task force to address the disaster andeventually took on the producing duties himself for the next year’s show, which was also the first time Crystal hosted. The rest is Oscar history. TheAcademy andthe industry owe this man a lot. When we spoke he was full of ideas for the future, the shows he hoped to get another crack at. Hewasn’t as concerned about the endlessotherawards groups that try to imitate Oscar even though he admitted they can create a certain amount of fatigue. “Most of the others are precursors to who wins theOscar. That’s the BIG award, that’s the only one that really counts and is significant. In a way I’ve always regarded those other shows as noise but nonetheless noise that has to be taken into consideration,” he said. “But as long as the Academy board keeps their eyes open to the possibilities of change, they are in great shape.” The Oscars were in great shape when Gil was around. So was the entire industry. The tributesthat continue to pour in today are testament to that.

'Dark Dark evening Rises' Won't Occupy Wall Street, 'Arkham City' Sells Huge

Batman safeguards the 99% within the plentiful crazies Gotham City must offer, but he'll not stand beside them on Wall Street. Despite gossips on the other hand, "The Dark Dark evening Increases" won't be shooting in NY's Zuccotti Park, that will help you hug people Bruce Wayne-meets-Wall Street protestors mashup dreams goodbye, sadly. Get lots of latest comic movie news following a jump! "Arkham" Sells Speaking about Batman, fans are flowing in groups for "Arkham City," the newest gaming good Caped Crusader's crime-fighting exploits. The sport has offered 4.6 000 0000 models worldwide in just 7 days, a fantastic number that's double what "Arkham Asylum" made throughout its launch week this past year. A smaller amount shabby whatsoever! Shirtless Superman Henry Cavill loves beards, hates t t shirts. This is actually the message I get all the "Guy of Steel" set photos that relate the long run Superman bare-chested and jacked from his mind, no less than. Really the only factor bigger compared to Kryptonian hero's massive muscles is my sudden oncoming of serious body issues. Interesting, Henry! Thor Versus. Loki An oldie but a goodie: Tom Hiddleston, who plays the Asgardian villain Loki in "Thor" and "The Avengers," was this close to playing the God of Thunder themselves in Kenneth Branagh's superhero film. I'm glad it shook notice did can't really picture Hiddleston transporting Mjolnir, as awesome since the guy is. Hear his story inside the video below. Reveal everything you consider current day Splash Page roundup inside the comments section and also on Twitter!

Karl Urban and Ben Barnes Go Into 'Overdrive' (Exclusive)

Getty Images Karl Urban and Ben Barnes have been cast as car-thief brothers in the France-set actioner Overdrive. Antonio Negret (Seconds Apart) is directing the project, which was written by Wanted and 2 Fast 2 Furious scribes Derek Haas and Michael Brandt. Game of Thrones star Emilia Clarke is in negotiations for the female lead.our editor recommendsKarl Urban, Adriana Barraza join 'Darkness'Ben Barnes to shine as Dorian Gray PHOTOS: 7 Music to Movie Directors Pierre Morel, whose kidnapping thriller Taken was a surprise success in 2008, is producing along with Haas and Brandt. Filming beginsOctober 29 in Marseilles. Urban, who plays Bones in the revampedStar Trekfranchise, and Barnes, who plays Prince Caspian in the Chronicles of Narnia series, will play adventurous siblings who find more trouble than they are looking for in the South of France.Alex Pettyfer, Matthew Goodeand Garrett Hedlund were each attached at various points during development. STORY: WME Signing Spree Continues With 'Narnia' Star Ben Barnes (Exclusive) The movie sprang from a trip Haas and Brandt took overseas in November 2008, when they were invited by the French government to tour the country for ten days as part of a Hollywood outreach program called France: Unlimited Access. Finding Marseilles a very cinematic city with an edge, they wrote a crime script that made good use of the local locations. Haas and Brandt first delivered the screenplay to Fox, where they are part of a profit-sharing collective called Writing Partners launched in 2007 with screenwriting colleaguesJohn August, Ted Elliott & Terry Rossio, Simon Kinberg, Stuart Beattie and others. When Fox passed on the $30 million project, they took it to Morel, who agreed to produce and tapped protege Negret to direct. French production/sales outfit Kinology (Buried) began selling international rights in Cannes; WME Entertainment reps domestic rights. The WME-repped Urban most recently appeared in Priest andRed. He next stars as the title character in Lionsgate'sDredd, which opens in September 2012. Repped by WME, Creative Artists Management in the U.K. and Luber Roklin Entertainment, Barnes has appeared in Easy Virtue, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader and Dorian Gray. He has Lionsgate's The Wedding coming out in October 2012. Clarke is repped by WME andEmptage/Hallett in the U.K. Repped by WME and Circle of Confusion, Negret has the After Dark thriller Transitawaiting release. Repped by WME and Industry Entertainment, Haas and Brandt have the Image Entertainment thriller The Double opening October 28. The film, which they wrote, is Brandt's directorial debut and Haas' producing debut. Pierre Morel Movie Casting Karl Urban Derek Haas Michael Brandt

Brubaker adapting 'Coward' for Slade to direct

Erectile dysfunction Brubaker, the comicbook world's most decorated scribe of history 5 years, is adapting his graphic novel "Coward" for Jamie Patricof's Hunting Lane Films, that has acquired the privileges towards the modern crime noir and attached "Twilight: Eclipse" helmer David Slade to direct.Released by Marvel Comics' Icon imprint, Brubaker and illustrator Sean Phillips' "Criminal" series, which "Coward" may be the first arc, won the Eisner for the best new series in 2007. For his focus on Captain America, Daredevil along with other game titles, Brubaker won the very best prize of best author in the Eisner Honours -- probably the most coveted kudo in comics -- three from the past 5 years.The very first in a number of six interconnected tales, "Coward" focuses on Leo, an expert crook and heist planner who lives in an enormous amount of hustlers, crooked cops, pickpockets and lowlifes. A follow up to "Coward" is incorporated in the works, and Hunting Lane has first option around the second within the series, Brubaker told Variety.Patricof will produce for Hunting Lane Films, the shingle behind "Half Nelson" and "Blue Valentine.""We're thrilled to become dealing with Erectile dysfunction Brubaker on 'Coward'" stated Patricof. "This really is this kind of legendary comic. With David Slade now attached, you will find there's obvious vision for which the film is going to be.InchInchIf Ryan Gosling had not recently been in 'Drive,' he'd be perfect (for that role of Leo)," Brubaker told Variety. "It is a good role for just about any actor in regards to a guy who's afraid to complete things due to what's within him. It is a heist story, partially -- it's lot of different crime tales covered with one, but heist tales will always be exciting if they are drawn off properly."Onboard to assist him do that's Slade, who had been at Brubaker's side focusing on the project when Variety spoken with the author a week ago.Inch'Coward' only agreed to be an excellent modern story," Slade stated. "It harkens to a period of crime tales where there's a real gritty reality into it, there is however a type of underworld haze of noir. It isn't like we must reinvent the fabric, to find it, since it already works."Nick Meyer's Sierra/Affinity is mounted on finance the project and handle worldwide sales. "You will find a lot of things we love to relating to this project," Meyer stated.Slade, the musicvid helmer whose first feature was "Hard Chocolate," then Sony's adaptation of Steve Niles' graphic novel "thirty days of Evening," can also be mounted on direct Fox's reboot from the "Daredevil" franchise. He's repped by WME and Anonymous Content.Brubaker lately optioned his graphic novel "Incognito" to Fox and can co-produce the project. His run like a author on Marvel's "Captain America" comic was highly influential about this summer's "Captain America: First Avenger." Contact the range newsroom at news@variety.com

The Walking Dead: Can the Survivors Coexist with the Family at Hershel's Farm?

The Walking Dead [Warning: This story contains spoilers from AMC's The Walking Dead and the comics which inspired it.] The world of The Walking Dead is about to expand. Following the shooting of Carl (Chandler Riggs) at the close of the Season 2 premiere, Rick (Andrew Lincoln) will frantically set out in search for help. He'll seek solace at the farm of Hershel Greene (Scott Wilson), which houses a family unaware of just how far the zombie apocalypse has spread. Gross! The brains behind The Walking Dead dissect the premiere's zombie autopsy "They think this is just a temporary thing," explains Lauren Cohan, whose character, Maggie Greene, will be introduced in Sunday's episode. "They've been really sheltered. So when the group comes, they come with all of their energy and all of their news, and I think it takes the Greene family a minute to get their head around what the outside has really become." Hershel, the patriarch of the Greene family, will lend his expertise in helping Carl, but that doesn't necessarily mean he welcomes the presence of Rick & Co. "They're a Christian family and they want to help, so... naturally they're going to do everything they can," Cohan says. "But they also want to protect themselves and maintain what they consider a safe hold. Over the course of the group being at the farm, [the family] really wakes up to a lot of things. Dad especially has some big misconceptions about what's happening out there." The Walking Dead looks for life after Frank Darabont Although Cohan says Maggie will do her best to keep the peace between the arriving survivors and the Greene family, she says her character is quite the "badass when she has to be." But "she's also very caring and compassionate," Cohan says. "She's just a classic rebel. I think she went through this really tough rebellious stage and shunned her religion and her family. Now, she's come back around, and especially in light of the events, she's coming back to be with her family ... and actually being the matriarchal figure in the Greene family." As in the graphic novel series that inspired the show, there will be a spark between Maggie and Glenn (Steven Yeun). "They have this kindred connection," Cohan says. "It's not that he's just smart and brave and cute and her age and available and not related to her. I think, in the sad way that we might die tomorrow, it's like, 'Let's do this! F--- it!' [She] and Glenn fall for each other and their relationship gives them both purpose in this kind of unique world." The Walking Dead: Creator weighs in on Season 1's biggest mystery But will the couple's meet cute be as bluntly sexual as it was in the comics? "It's an awesome beginning of their physical relationship," Cohan teases. Not everyone is so lovey-dovey about this new coexistence. "Shane [Jon Bernthal] is a huge troublemaker," Cohan says. "Shane's character is just so volatile and that doesn't help when they get to the farm. The question of what's right is so constant through this whole thing. You need to respect the fact that this is Hershel's farm, and yet, how do any of the old rules apply anymore? Everybody's just trying to survive, but the Greene family doesn't realize how important survival is until the group brings the news of the outside world." Shane even being on the Greene farm is one of several departures from the comic books. (Spoiler alert! In the books, Shane met his demise prior to the group's arrival at Hershel's house.) Cohan says there are other differences in the story line, including the characterization of Maggie. "Comic book Maggie is mainly a bit more blunt," Cohan notes. "Also, [in the comics], I don't feel like we get to know Maggie very well until we get to the prison. In our show, I feel like we understand a lot more of Maggie within the context of her family and given her history and background." The Walking Dead: 10 things from the comics the cast can't wait to play Does Cohan find the fact that her character is still alive in the comics as a sign of job security? "You never know if anything's going to be changed, but I do feel excited at how much development Maggie is getting," she says. "So, I do definitely have a feeling that I'm going to be around for a minute. "But if we put that in print, they'll kill me tomorrow," she says with a slightly nervous laugh. "At the end of the day... whatever is best for the story is what anybody wants to happen. The things that happen this season, some of them will literally smack you around the head like a hammer." The Walking Dead airs Sundays at 9/8c on AMC.

Univision Picks Up Jennifer Lopez, Marc Anthony & Simon Fullers QViva! Series

Leading U.S. Spanish-language network Univision has picked up Latin American talent competition series Q’Viva! The Chosen, from American Idol creator Simon Fuller, Jennifer Lopez, Marc Anthony, and Jamie King. Also locked in by distributor Endemol are media giant Televisa in Mexico, where the show will air on Televisa’s flagship network Canal de las Estrellas, and leading network Caracol TV in Colombia. The Chosen, which is currently being filmed in English, Spanish and Portuguese, is slated to air simultaneously in 21 countries in the first quarter of 2012.

Nossa takes '11-11-11,' 'Papam,' 'Artigas'

RIO P JANEIRO -- "11-11-11," "Habemus Papam" and "Artigas" feature around the first distribution slate of Nossa Distribuidora, Brazil's groundbreaking new distribution service revealed last Tuesday in the Rio Film Festival. The organization will release about 50 films over late 2011, 2012 and first quarter 2013, Boss Marco Aurelio Marcondes told Variety, which underscores the leverage Nossa seeks to exercise with participants in South america. Among Nossa's first releases is going to be supernatural chiller "11-11-11" from Darren Lynn Bousman ("Saw II," "Saw III" and "Saw IV"). Created by Epic Pictures Group and Spain's Canonigo Films, it'll bow in South america on November. 11, day-and-date using the U.S. Nanni Moretti's "Papam" is really a comic drama in regards to a reluctant new pontiff. "Artigas," helmed by cinematographer-switched-helmer Cesar Charlone ("The Pope's Toilet"), activates Jose Gervasio Artigas, who battled from 1806 to 1820 to wrestle independence for Uruguay. This diversity will typify Nossa's pick-ups, at home and abroad, stated Marcondes. Nossa will even support new filmmakers. One Nossa title, as already introduced, is "Artificial Paradises," about Brazil's rave scene. "Paradises" marks the fiction feature directorial debut of Marcos Prado, producer of "Elite Squad" and "Elite Squad 2." Another Nossa title, Brazilian Western "Matraga -- the Hour and Turn," is really a further debut, this time around from Vinicius Coimbra, a helper director on Walter Salles' "Central Station." "Matraga" world opened a week ago in the Rio Festival in the Premiere Brasil section. Nossa's first slate is going to be revealed entirely in the Show Buzios industry convention on November. 24-25, Marcondes stated. About 30 of Nossa's 50 is going to be worldwide game titles, he added. Nossa's founding partners are largely top-level Brazilian producers -- Jose Padilha and Marcos Prado's Zazen, Fernando Meirelles' o2 Filmes, Daniel Filho's Lereby, Conspiracao Films and Morena Films -- plus Fabio Lima and Marcondes' investment company, FL & MAM Participacoes. But Nossa will have the ability to access worldwide game titles in one partner, indie distrib Vinny Films, run by former Europa Filmes owner Wilson Feitosa. Under Nossa's collections arrangement, box office revenues are compensated right into a joint account handled with a film's producer and Nossa. "A number of our aims are transparency, as being a showcase for talent and getting a sensitivity for consumer taste," Marcondes stated. Contact the range newsroom at news@variety.com

Fox Distribution Vet Bert Livingston To Retire November 1

La (October 17, 2011) __ After 29 years employed by Last Century Fox, Bert Livingston, the Galleries senior v . p . and co-general sales director for domestic distribution, will retire on November 1, 2011, it had been introduced today by Bruce Snyder, Foxs leader of domestic distribution. Throughout his time at Fox, Livingston offered like a branch manager in Detroit, The city of jacksonville and Dallas before becoming Mid-Western division manager in 1989. He later offered as Southern division manager, located in Dallas, before moving to La in 1997 being Western division manager. In 2004 he was named co-general sales director. Last Century Fox wouldn't be the organization it's today if Bert hadnt made the decision to really make it his business home, stated Bruce Snyder. He's been this type of huge area of the culture here in addition to my confidante and partner, lo these a long time. Livingston started his career in 1975 at Brotman & Sherman Cinemas in Chicago, before moving towards the studio distribution side of the profession. Livingston added: My existence at Last Century Fox continues to be the finest. The studio continues to be just like a second family in my experience. I really like e-commerce. Very few people know that i'm another generation film peddler, when i adopted my fathers actions into a business he loved, and that he developed within me an identical passion. But Im in a reason for my existence where Id prefer to hang out with my spouse and youngsters, perform some traveling and merely relax.

Coldplay, Jessie J and LMFAO To Complete at MTV Europe Music Honours

LONDON - Coldplay, Jessie Jand La-based duo LMFAO works as of this year's MTV Europe Music Honours before fans in Northern Ireland on November. 6. Fresh within the relieve their latest album Mylo Xyloto, Coldplay are needed to see among their new tracks, while Jessie J, the British artist which has totalled up # 1 hits in 18 areas may have the EMAs the first time. "I'm able to less than believe I'm nominated for 3 honours. It's wonderful, I keep pinching myself. And being nominated for top U.K./Ireland Act alongside artists like Adele, Coldplay, Kasabian and Florence is certainly an recognition," mentioned Jessie J. LMFAO, whose ubiquitous "Party Rock Anthem" has centered the primary perfect the iTunes chart in 19 nations, may even make their EMA debut. The Sought After Chilli A myriad of all kinds of peppers will also be introduced inside the undertaking selection in Belfast. This year's honours will probably be situated by Selena Gomez. Lady Gagaleads individuals of EMA nominees with six noms, with Katy Perryand Bruno Marsfollowing carefully behind with four nominations. Adele, Justin Bieberand A Couple of Seconds To Mars are each up for 3 honours. Other EMA nominees include Foo Mma fighters, Snoop Dogg,My Chemical Romance, Jennifer Lopez, LMFAO, Jessie J, Beyoncé, Coldplay, Eminem, Arcade Fire, Sought After Chili A myriad of all kinds of peppers, China Movement, Kanye, Linkin Park, Wiz Khalifa and Nobleman of Leon. Related Subjects Worldwide MTV Coldplay

Darren Aronofsky to helm Noah

He's handled from paranoid specialized specialised mathematicians to cleared up wrestlers to crazy ballet ballroom ballroom dancers, but this time around around Darren Aronofsky will get Spiritual on our asses."Since I Have Have will be a kid, I have been moved and inspired with the story of Noah and also the family's journey," the Black Swan director mentioned."The creativity of several decades have sparked with this epic story of belief. It's my hope will have the ability to present a window into Noah's passion and perseverance for your giant screen.InchNoah is really a extended-time passion work with Aronofsky, who was simply inspired to produce a poem referred to as Finish Around The World Through Noah's Eyes when he was 13 and won a tournament at his school."Noah was the initial person to plant vineyards and drink wine and acquire drunk. It's there inside the Bible - it absolutely was one of the primary things he did when he showed up at land. There's some real survivor's guilt happening there. He's a dark, complicated character," the director mentioned in 2007.As TF reported in June this film have been suggested just like a "large fantasy epic", it is therefore not surprising to look for the Fountain author Ari Handel aboard.Aronofsky and Handel will hands their script for Noah to Academy Award-nominated film author John Logan (Gladiator, The Aviator) for just about any rewrite.Scott Franklin and Aronofsky will produce the film. Outdoors that Vital Pictures and New Regency Productions have grew to become an associate of forces with this particular production, that's all everyone knows at this time around.Fairly sure you will see an ark within it though!

L.A. County AFL-CIO Endorses 'Occupy' Protests

In a strongly worded declaration, the L.A. county AFL-CIO has endorsed the "Occupy" protests that began in NY and have spread to Los Angeles and other cities.In an exclusive statement to "The Hollywood Reporter," the group blasted "an unfair economy that works for 1% of Americans while the vast majority of people struggle to pay the bills, get an education and raise their families."The statement also declared that "the Los Angeles labor movement stands with its sisters and brothers occupying Wall Street, downtown Los Angeles and cities and towns across the country."The group -- the L.A. County Federation of Labor -- is an umbrella group of AFL-CIO locals and other unions. Among its affiliates are AFTRA, SAG, Teamsters and Los Angeles based IATSE locals, whereas the DGA and WGA West are not members.The group's endorsement is not binding on its affiliates. The only entertainment union to endorse the Occupy protests to date is the WGA East, as "THR" exclusively reported Sunday.The group's leader, executive secretary treasurer Maria Elena Durazo, added "We must continue to speak out, organize and work together in order to rebuild the middle class."The statement described the Occupy Wall Street movement as "taking a stand against the corporate bullies, banks and investment firms that not only created our economic collapse in 2008, but continue to take advantage of it today, making billions in profits while demanding further wage and benefit cuts from American workers." The Hollywood Reporter

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Darren Aronofsky to helm Noah

He's tackled everything from paranoid mathematicians to washed up wrestlers to bonkers ballet dancers, but this time Darren Aronofsky is getting Biblical on our asses."Since I was a kid, I have been moved and inspired by the story of Noah and his family's journey," the Black Swan director said."The imaginations of countless generations have sparked to this epic story of faith. It's my hope that I can present a window into Noah's passion and perseverance for the silver screen."Noah has been a long-time passion project for Aronofsky, who was inspired to write a poem called The End Of The World Through Noah's Eyes when he was 13 and won a competition at his school."Noah was the first person to plant vineyards and drink wine and get drunk. It's there in the Bible - it was one of the first things he did when he reached land. There was some real survivor's guilt going on there. He's a dark, complicated character," the director said back in 2007.As TF reported back in June this film was being touted as a "big fantasy epic", so it's no surprise to see The Fountain writer Ari Handel on board.Aronofsky and Handel will hand their script for Noah over to Academy Award-nominated screenwriter John Logan (Gladiator, The Aviator) for a rewrite.Scott Franklin and Aronofsky will then produce the movie. Outside of the fact that Paramount Pictures and New Regency Productions have joined forces for this production, that's all we know right now.Pretty sure there'll be an ark in it though!

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