TV Castings For 3/12/14: Katie Holmes Set As Co-Star For ABC’s Untitled Richard LaGravenese Project

March 12, 2014, 12:32 pm

≫ Next: Film Development For 3/13/14: Chris McKay To Direct ‘The Lego Movie Sequel’

≪ Previous: On The Set For 3/10/14: A Hologram For The King, Starring Tom Hanks, Starts Production

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Pilots

Katie Holmes and Rufus Sewell will star in ABC’s Untitled Richard LaGravenese project, that revolves around the love and rivalry between two equally matched, powerful socialites who play out their obsessive attraction and seduction of each other through their manipulation of others. Daphne Ruben-Vega will guest star in the pilot and possibly recur if it goes to series. Azure Parsons joins ABC’s Astronaut Wives Club, that tells the true story of the women behind NASA’s early astronauts and the struggles they face when their lives and families are catapulted into the spotlight overnight. Anna Camp and Kellee Stewart have been cast in ABC’s Damaged Goods, about the sexual politics that have changed between men and women in this post-feminist era. Diogo Morgado and Shantel VanSanten are set for CW’s The Messengers, that follows a group of seemingly unconnected strangers who died from the energy pulse, but then awoke to learn that they have been deemed responsible for preventing the impending Apocalypse. Mary-Louise Parker joins NBC’s Feed Me, about the exploration of adult intimacy and desire that centers on a dysfunctional family bound by love and the restaurant they run together. Timothy Hutton, Penelope Ann Miller and Felicity Huffman have been cast in ABC’s American Crime, that focuses on a racially charged murder and the subsequent trial, which are examined through the personal lives of the victims, the accused, and their families. Bresha Webb, Jeff Ross and Jayson Blair join ABC’s Keep It Together, about the post-divorce life of a couple trying to forge a friendship for the sake of their kids. Kevin Hart will guest star in the pilot and recur if the series is picked up. Brianna Brown is set for ABC’s The Visitors, about a race against the clock to defeat an unseen alien enemy out to destroy the world using our most precious resource against us. Scott Cohen, Annie Ilonzeh and Morgan Spector have landed a role on NBC’s Coercion, about a grown man who finds his parents are former spies, then faces a choice between family and country when their handler returns and demands his cooperation. Cliff Chamberlain joins NBC’s State Of Affairs, that follows a CIA officer who is plucked from the field to become the president's daily briefer, assuming responsibility for targeting America's most critical threats while navigating the unique lifestyle that comes with such a high-powered job. Krysta Rodriguez has been cast in CBS’ How I Met Your Dad, that follows a group of New York friends and chronicles a female member of the group’s quest to meet her future husband. Chris Butler and Harriet Harris are set for NBC’s Lifesaver, an odd couple comedy in which two polar opposites become inextricably linked after one saves the other’s life. Bebe Neuwirth, Erich Bergen, Evan Roe, Katherine Herzer and Patina Miller have been cast in CBS’ Madam Secretary, that explores the personal and professional life of a maverick female Secretary of State as she drives international diplomacy, wrangles office politics and balances a complex family life. Dave Annable, Ciara Bravo and Nolan Sotillo join Fox’s Red Band Society, that explores, with dark humor, the daily life of a group of teenage patients living in a hospital who become unlikely friends. David Harewood has booked ABC’s Selfie, that tells the story of a self-obsessed twenty-something woman who is more concerned with "likes" than being liked. Mariana Klaveno has landed a role in CBS’ Untitled Kevin Williamson Project, about a pair of detectives who handle stalking incidents for the Threat Management Unit of the LAPD. Neil Hopkins is set for El Rey’s Matador, about a soccer star whose sports career is a cover for his real job as a skilled covert operative for a little known branch of the CIA. Chris Diamantopoulos, Tate Ellington and Joshua Gomez join NBC’s Ellen More Or Less, that follows a formerly obese thirty-something woman who has just recently shed the weight and is now experiencing life and relationships from her very unique perspective. Ryan McPartlin and Jessica Lu will co-star opposite Ashley Judd in NBC’s Salvation, about a big family saga set against the backdrop of a Texas mega church. Bryshere Y. Gray (aka Yazz The Greatest), Malik Yoba, Trai Byers, Grace Gealey and Kaitlin Doubleday are set for Fox’s Empire, about a music superstar determined to take his company, Empire Entertainment, public -- a first in the field of urban entertainment. But when he challenges his three sons to compete for the head job at Empire, he sets in motion internecine forces that could tear his empire -- and his family -- apart. Gabourey Sidibe will guest star in the pilot and recur if ordered to series. Spencer Grammer joins ABC’s Saint Francis, centered on a blue-collar, no-nonsense Long Island cop and family man who butts heads with the modern, liberal world when his 29-year-old sister gets pregnant out of wedlock. Mary Elizabeth Winstead and Fran Kranz have been cast in ABC’s Exposed, about an intrepid female journalist who uncovers a vast criminal conspiracy involving both the government and the corporate world. Sepideh Moafi is set for CBS’ Red Zone, that’s focused on a retired CIA operative who, when a terrorist event rocks Washington, D.C., is pulled back into action, forced to investigate closer to home where the next generation of terrorists are being bred. John Corbett will co-star opposite Denis Leary in FX’s Sex, Drugs, & Rock & Roll, about a middle-aged rock ‘n roller who desperately wants to be rich and famous. Joshua Sussman joins ABC’s The Winklers, that centers on an emotionally reserved construction worker who learns about love, life and hugs while unexpectedly living with his in-laws. Bojana Novakovic and Clancy Brown have been cast in ABC’s Agatha, in second position to Fox’s Rake, that centers on a big city criminologist who is brought in to help local police crack a case involving a shocking string of disappearances. But the chief detective she’s been hired to help is her father — and they haven’t talked in 10 years. Jaime Camil has joined CW’s Jane The Virgin, that centers on Jane, a hard-working, religious girl who, due to a series of outrageous events, is accidentally artificially inseminated. Chris Conroy is set for ABC’s The Club, an upstairs/downstairs soap set at a private country club. Rebecca Romijn has been cast in TNT’s The Pro, about a former tennis doubles champion whose career flamed-out as his misguided investments have left him working as the pro at a tennis and golf club, where he tries to hustle and charm his way back into America’s 1%. Angelique Cabral, who joins in second position to Fox’s Enlisted, Dana DeLorenao and Kim Shaw have signed on for NBC’s Two To Go, that centers on the last two singles in a group of friends moving into marriage and parenthood, navigating life and love as they Friday night barhop then Saturday morning moon bounce surrounded by kids — none of whom are their own. Joanna Going joins DirecTv’s Navy Street, that follows a family set against the backdrop of a mixed martial arts (MMA) gym in Venice, California. Paul F. Tompkins will co-star opposite Molly Shannon in ABC’s Bambi Cottages, that centers on an overworked father dreaming of being "on vacation all year" who decides to uproot his family from the city and move them to New Hampshire where they open a group of tourist cottages. Shiloh Nelson, Tessa Albertson, Ty Parker, Charlie Kilgore and Connor Kalopsis will play their kids. Rose McIver, Robert Buckley and Nora Dunn have been set for CW’s iZombie, that centers on a med student-turned-zombie who takes a job in the coroner’s office to gain access to the brains she must reluctantly eat to maintain her humanity. Jennifer Beals lands the lead in TNT’s Proof, that follows a surgeon who investigates cases of reincarnation, out-of-body experiences, hauntings — all of it looking for verifiable proof, to try to answer one of life’s greatest questions: Is death truly the end, or is there something … beyond? Annie Thurman will also star. Robert Patrick and Elyes Gabel are set for CBS’ Scorpion, about a genius who recruits the world’s greatest intellects to his company where they not only solve the world’s most pressing and significant problems, but also help each other learn to fit-in and live in a world where literally being "one in a billion" can be as lonely as it sounds. Melissa Roxburgh has been cast as the female lead in CW’s Supernatural: Bloodlines, that follows various mafia-esque monster families that unknowingly to humans "run" the underbelly of Chicago and who are being tracked by a newly minted Hunter who’s trying to stop them and rid Chicago of anything or anyone supernatural. Amy Sedaris joins Fox’s Dead Boss, that centers on a woman trying to prove her innocence after being falsely accused and convicted of killing her boss. Ana de la Garza is set for ABC’s Forever, about a star medical examiner harboring the secret of his own immortality. Mehcad Brooks will play a CIA agent in CW’s Identity, about a young Brooklynite recruited by the CIA to infiltrate her recently discovered biological family, a wealthy and powerful dynasty in Texas suspected of having criminal alliances across the globe. James Roday joins CBS’ Good Session, that explores (via couples counseling sessions) the relationship of a thirty-something couple from their first meeting (in flashback) through present day, as they decide whether it’s time to have a child. Andrew Lees is the first cast in TBS’ Your Family Or Mine, a comedy about a couple who learns you don't just marry your spouse, you marry their entire family. Tom Verica has been cast in ABC’s How To Get Away With Murder, that centers on ambitious law students and their brilliant, mysterious criminal defense professor who become entangled in a murder plot. Nick Jandl and Cameron Scoggins join CBS’ Untitled David Marshall Grant project, that revolves around quadruplets – three brothers and a sister – who grew up on a reality show. Ben Daniels is set for Starz’s Flesh and Bone, that follows a young ballet dancer, who has a distinctly troubled past, as she joins a prestigious ballet company in New York. Hudson Yang has landed the lead role in ABC’s Far East Orlando (fka Fresh Off The Boat), that revolves around a Chinese family that moves to Orlando. Barry Rothbart is set as the male lead in NBC’s Love Is Relative, about a married-with-children couple who find their life and their habits challenged when the wife’s newly single brother, comes to live with them.

Current Series

Lindsay Lohan to guest star on CBS’ 2 Broke Girls. Michael Cerveris is set to recur on CBS’ The Good Wife. Laura Benanti will guest star. Peter Scanavino is scheduled to guest star in NBC’s The Blacklist. Mason Dye,Khylin Rhambo and Dylan Sprayberry are set to recur on MTV’s Teen Wolf. Keke Palmer will recur on the second season of Showtime’s Masters Of Sex. Nicholas Bishop will be joining season 5 of USA’s Convert Affairs as a regular.

New Series

Paul Reiser and Regina Hall will recur on FX’s Married. Louis Gossett Jr. will play Halle Berry’s father on CBS’ Extant.  

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Film Development For 3/13/14: Chris McKay To Direct ‘The Lego Movie Sequel’

March 13, 2014, 12:42 pm

≫ Next: Rep Moves For 3/14/14: CAA, WME, Gersh, Resolution

≪ Previous: TV Castings For 3/12/14: Katie Holmes Set As Co-Star For ABC’s Untitled Richard LaGravenese Project

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NEW ATTACHMENTS

The Ballad of Richard Jewell Logline: The true story of Richard Jewell is told. Jewell’s reputation was ruined after he was wrongly accused of planting a bomb at the 1996 Olympics. Studio/Distributor: 20^th Century Fox Production Companies: Appian Way, Misher Films Producers:  Leonardo DiCaprio, Jonah Hill, Jennifer Davisson Killoran, Kevin Misher, Andy Berman Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Jonah Hill Writer: Billy Ray Details: Based on the article American Nightmare: The Ballad of Richard Jewell, written by Marie Brenner and published in Vanity Fair in February 1997.  SSN Insight: Writer Billy Ray, fresh off his Oscar nomination for Captain Phillips will bring yet another true story to the screen, as well as quickly reuniting Leonardo DiCaprio and Jonah Hill since their Oscar nominated film The Wolf of Wall Street. The Lego Movie Sequel Logline: The story about Lego figures who join forces against a wicked Lego despot continues. Studio/Distributor: Warner Bros. Production Companies: Warner Bros. Animation, Lin Pictures, Vertigo Entertainment Producers: Dan Lin, Phil Lord, Chris Miller, Roy Lee, Jill Wilfert (Executive Producer) Writers: Jared Stern, Michelle Morgan Director: Chris McKay Details: Sequel to The Lego Movie (USA/2014) directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller.  SSN Insight:  Director Chris McKay is also negotiating a first-look producing deal at Warner Bros. Warner Bros. started working on the sequel before the release of the original film based on advanced market research that showed the first film would be a big hit, which it was, earning over $360 million worldwide so far. Pushing Daisy Logline: In 1999, young Daisy meets a mysterious young woman who teaches her to pursue her dreams. Production Company: Linsefilm Producers: Brian Linsie, Michael Cerenzie Writers: Neal Gumpel, A.J. Benza SSN Insight: This marks the first comedy project for Linsefilm. Fletch Won Logline: The early days of Fletch as a junior newspaper reporter, who teams up with a crime reporter to solve a murder. Studio/Distributor: Warner Bros. Production Companies: RoadDog Industries, Inc., Anonymous Content Producers: David List, Steve Golin, Michael Sugar, Amanda White (Co-Producer) Cast: Jason Sudeikis Writers: Kevin Smith, Bill Lawrence, Eli Jorne Details: Based on the novel Fletch Won, written by Gregory McDonald published by Warner Books; 1985. Prequel to Fletch (USA/1985) directed by Michael Ritchie and starring Chevy Chase.  SSN Insight: This project has been in development for years. Warner Bros. nabbed the rights from The Weinstein Company in 2011.

NEW PROJECTS

A Perfect Day Logline: A diverse group of aid workers race against time to complete a mission in a conflict zone landscape. Production Companies: Reposado Producciones,  Mediapro Producers: Fernando Leon de Aranoa, Jaume Roures, Javier Mendez (Executive Producer), Patricia de Muns (Executive Producer) Cast: Benicio del Toro, Tim Robbins, Olga Kurylenko, Melanie Thierry, Fedja Stukan Director: Fernando Leon de Aranoa Details: Based on the novel Dejarse Llover, written by Paula Farias and published by Espasa-Calpe on January 12, 2005. SSN Insight: This project marks the first English-language film for Spanish producer/director Fernando Leon de Aranoa. Death of a Heart Logline: Storyline is under wraps. Studio/Distributor: Columbia Pictures Production Company:  The Mark Gordon Company Producer: Mark Gordon Details: Based on the book Death of a Heart, currently being written by Howard Blum. SSN Insight:  Sony nabbed the rights to this upcoming novel by Howard Blum, but Blum has 2 other novels being developed into features; The Floor Of Heaven at Fox and at Dark Invasion Warner Bros. Out at Home: The Glenn Burke Story Logline: The true story of Glenn Burke, the first openly gay player in major league baseball. Production Company:  Juma Entertainment Producers:  Ross Katz, Jamie Lee Curtis. Bob Horowitz Writer:  Ross Katz Details: Based on the memoir Out at Home, written by Glenn Burke and Erik Sherman and published by Excel Publishing in 1995.  SSN Insight: Subject Glenn Burke is credited to have invented the “high five”.

Rep Moves For 3/14/14: CAA, WME, Gersh, Resolution

March 14, 2014, 5:50 am

≫ Next: Exec Shuffle For 3/14/14: 20th Century Fox Television, Warner Bros. Pictures, Cinemark, Sundance TV

≪ Previous: Film Development For 3/13/14: Chris McKay To Direct ‘The Lego Movie Sequel’

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Agencies

CAA: Actor Taylor Kitsch is now repped by Bryan O’Guin, Jack Whigham and Joel Lubin. Kitsch most recently appeared in the Peter Berg-directed Lone Survivor opposite Mark Wahlberg. He also starred in 2013’s Canadian comedy The Grand Seduction.  Kitsch originally got his big break playing Tim Riggins on Friday Night Lights and has since gone to appear in such features as John Tucker Must Die, The Covenant, X-Men Origins: Wolverine, John Carter, Battleship and Oliver Stone’s Savages amongst others. Next up, Kitsch will star in the Ryan Murphy-helmed feature The Normal Heart, an adaptation of the Larry Kramer play. CAA: Actor Eric Stonestreet is now repped by Michael Kives, Dave Bugliari, Jimmy Darmody, Gregory McKnight and Martin Lesak. Stonestreet currently stars as Cameron Tucker on ABC’s hit series Modern Family. He also recently had a memorable supporting role in 2013’s Identity Thief. Prior to his breakout role on Modern Family, Stonestreet appeared in numerous television series and features, notably portraying Ronnie Litre on CSI: Crime Scene Investigation amongst others. Stonestreet’s feature credits include Almost Famous, Girls Will Be Girls, The Island and Bad Teacher. He has won two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for his work on Modern Family. Next up, Stonestreet will be seen in the feature thriller Loft, due out this summer. CAA: Actress, singer and author Zendaya is now repped by Josh Lieberman, Stuart Manashil, Mark Cheatham, Bryan O’Guin, Cameron Mitchell, Steven Lafferty and Jeffrey Azoff.  Zendaya is the star of the Disney Channel series Shake It Up. She also will appear in the upcoming Disney Channel movie Zapped and her single “Replay” recently went platinum. Starting her career as a model and commercial actress, Zendaya landed her role in Shake It Up in 2010 and has since gone on to a successful music and acting career, with such credits as Disney movie Frenemies and guest appearances on the Disney series Good Luck Charlie and A.N.T. Farm. Zendaya also appeared in season 16 of Dancing with the Stars, placing second, and she penned her first book, Between You and Me, last year. Gersh: Actor John Larroquette is now repped by Bob Gersh, Matt Vioral, Nick Collins and Randi Goldstein. Larroquette currently has a recurring role on Almost Human. He also appeared on NBC’s Deception. Starting his career in the seventies, Larroquette’s extensive resume has included such highlights as roles on Night Court, McBride, The John Larroquette Show, The Practice, The West Wing, Happy Family and Boston Legal.  Some of his more notable feature credits include The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Second Sight, Blind Date, Stripes, Star Trek III: The Search for Spock, JFK and Richie Rich. Larroquette has won five Emmy Awards over his career, four for Outstanding Supporting Actor for Night Court and one for Outstanding Guest Actor for The Practice. ICM Partners: Romanian actor Sebastian Stan is now repped by Carter Cohn, Dar Rollins and Adam Schweitzer. Stan will soon be seen playing the Winter Soldier in the upcoming tentpole Captain America 2: The Winter Soldier. Previously best known as a stage actor, Stan appeared in the Broadway revival of Picnic, opposite Ellen Burstyn, and starred in Talk Radio, opposite Liev Schreiber. His feature credits have included The Covenant, Rachel Getting Married, Hot Tub Time Machine, Black Swan, Captain America: The First Avenger, Gone and Apparition.  Television credits include playing The Mad Hatter/Jefferson on Once Upon a Time, as well as roles on Kings and Gossip Girl. Stan also played T.J. Hammond in the miniseries Political Animals. Resolution: Brazilian actress and model Rebecca Da Costa is now repped by Everly Lee. Da Costa is currently starring opposite John Cusack and Robert De Niro in The Bag Man, which was released in February. She also starred in the 2013 horror thriller Breaking at the Edge, opposite Milo Ventimiglia and Andie MacDowell.  Starting her modeling career at age 15, Da Costa made her acting debut on HBO’s Entourage in 2009. She has since gone to appear in such features as Trick of the Witch, L.A., I Hate You, Freerunner and Seven Below, opposite Val Kilmer. UTA: Actress, singer and entrepreneur Jessica Simpson is now repped by Nancy Gates, Kevin Volchok, and Jonathan Weinstein. The move signals a comeback for Simpson who has spent the last few years raising a family. Rising to fame with her debut album, Sweet Kisses, which went double platinum, Simpson has sold over 30 million albums worldwide. Her film and television credits have included the features The Dukes of Hazzard and Employee of the Month, as well as the reality series Newlyweds: Nick and Jessica and Fashion Star. Simpson launched the Jessica Simpson Collection in 2005. WME: Actress and producer Katherine Heigl is now a client. Heigl will soon star in the features Jenny’s Wedding and North of Hell. She also appeared in 2013’s The Big Wedding. Making her acting debut in 1992, Heigl’s early work included such features as My Father the Hero and Under Siege 2: Dark Territory, before she got her big break on the series Roswell. Heigl is probably best known, however, for her roles as Izzie Stevens on Grey’s Anatomy and Alison Scott in the 2007 comedy hit Knocked Up. Heigl’s subsequent feature credits have included 27 Dresses, The Ugly Truth, Killers, Life as We Know It and One for the Money. Next up, Heigl is planning a return to television with the NBC pilot State of Affairs.

Management Companies

Code Entertainment: Writing team Adam Rogers and Glenn German are now repped by Rick Berg and Seth Nagel. Rogers and German wrote the script for the recently released indie comedy At Middleton, which stars Andy Garcia (who also produced), Vera Farmiga and Taissa Farmiga. Rogers also directed the feature, which premiered last year at the Seattle International Film Festival. Anchor Bay released At Middleton in January as a premium VOD title. Previously, the duo wrote the screenplay Moving Elliot, which is set up at Universal with RatPac attached to produce. Vera Farmiga is also attached to star in Rogers and German’s next movie, currently entitled DMV.  

Exec Shuffle For 3/14/14: 20th Century Fox Television, Warner Bros. Pictures, Cinemark, Sundance TV

March 14, 2014, 5:56 am

≫ Next: ICYMI: SSN’s Top Original Stories For 3/10 – 3/14/14

≪ Previous: Rep Moves For 3/14/14: CAA, WME, Gersh, Resolution

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Company Launches

606 Films: Halle Berry and Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas have launched this production company, based at CBS Television Studios, to generate socially conscious content.  Kathryn Tyus-Adair has been named Senior Vice President. Exit 31: ESPN has combined three of its units, ESPN Films, Grantland, and FiveThirtyEight. Marie Donoghue, Senior Vice President, Global Strategy, Business Development, and Business Affairs at ESPN, has been named head of the new group. It also includes Connor Schell, Vice President, ESPN Films and Original Entertainment, Nate Silver, Editor in Chief, FiveThirtyEight, Bill Simmons, Editor in Chief, Grantland, and David Cho, Senior Director, Strategy and Business Development, Grantland and FiveThirtyEight. Imperative Entertainment: Tim Kring, Bradley Thomas, and Zak Kadison have formed this multi-platform production company with financing from the Friedkin Group. TAPP: Jeff Gaspin, Chairman, and Jon Klein, Chief Executive Officer , have announced this platform for celebrity-driven online channels. Untitled Emile Gladstone Management Company: Emile Gladstone has launched this management and production company.

Studios, Networks, and Media Conglomerates

20th Century Fox Television: Jennifer Carreras has been promoted to Vice President, Comedy Development. 20th Century Fox Television: Mandy Summers has been promoted to Vice President, Current Programming. 20th Century Fox Television: Jen Weinberg has been hired as Vice President, Talent Relations and Events. 20th Century Fox Television Distribution: Kristen Finney has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Worldwide Pay Television & Subscription VOD Distribution. ABC Family: Robert Prinz has been promoted to Executive Director, Development & Programming. CA Media: Rajesh Kama has been promoted to Group Chief Operating Officer and will relocate to Singapore. CNN: Leslie Picard has joined as Senior Vice President of Sales and Branded Solutions, CNN Ad Sales. Fox Broadcasting Company: Terence Carter has been promoted to Executive Vice President, Development and Programming, Drama.  Charlie Andrews has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Development and Programming, Drama. Fox Broadcasting Company: Suzanna Makkos has been promoted Executive Vice President, Development and Programming, Comedy. Lauren Levy Neustadter has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Development and Programming, Comedy.  Samata Narra has been named Vice President, Development and Programming, Comedy. Fox Deportes: Carlos Sanchez has been hired as Executive Vice President and General Manager. Tribune Broadcasting: Devin C. Johnson has joined as Senior Vice President and Head of Digital Media. Warner Bros. Pictures: Jon Gonda has been named Creative Executive.

Film

Arrow Films: James White has joined as Head of Technical & Restoration. British Film Institute (BFI): Andrea Wong, Pete Czernin and Jonathan Ross have joined BFI’s Board of Governors. Cinemark: Steve Bunnell has been promoted to Executive Vice President, Global Content. Cinemark: Ricardo Szperling has been promoted to Vice President, Film Buying & Programming, Latin America. Main Street Films: Sophie Nicolaou has been named Vice President, Marketing and Communications. Pantelion Films: Auri Maruri has joined as Director, Production and Development. Sidney Kimmel Entertainment: Carla Hacken has been named President, Production.

Television

Endemol Beyond Spain: Francisco Asensi was hired as Managing Director. marblemedia: Roberto Alcantara has been hired as Vice President, Primetime Development, in Canada. Zodiak Media: Gaspard de Chavagnac has been named Chief Executive Officer, Zodiak France.

Agencies, Management Companies, Public Relations, and Law Firms

Anonymous Content: David Fierson has been named Head, Business Operations. Kleinberg Lange Cuddy & Carlo LLP: Sara Jasper Epstein has joined as Senior Associate. Paradigm: Adam Kanter and  Martin Spencer have joined as Agents.

Cable

CNN: Jon Adler has been promoted to Associate Director, Program Development, in New York. CNN: Shawn Giangeruso has been promoted to Director, Talent Recruitment and Development, in New York. CNN: Leslie Picard has been named Senior Vice President, Sales and Branded Solutions, in New York. Comedy Central: Marjorie Williams has joined as Senior Counsel, Business & Legal Affairs. Bravo Media and Oxygen Media: David Brewer has been promoted to Vice President, Program Strategy & Acquisitions, in New York. Bravo Media and Oxygen Media: David O'Connell has taken on an expanded role as Senior Vice President, Production Operations. Bravo Media: Kathleen French and Jenn Levy have both been promoted to Senior Vice President, Production. Bravo Media: Zoe Rogovin has been promoted to Manager, Development. Bravo Media: Lara Spotts has been named Senior Vice President, Development, in New York. Discovery Communications: John Honeycutt has been promoted to Chief Technology Officer, in Maryland. SundanceTV: Mark Williams has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Brand Creative, in New York. SundanceTV: Jessica Gleason has been named Vice President, Production, Creative Services, in New York. SundanceTV: Drew Pisarra has been named Vice President, Digital Media and Marketing, in New York. SundanceTV: Mark Zadroga has been named Director, Online Content, in New York. National Geographic Channel: Kelly Jones has been named Vice President, Ad Sales Marketing, in New York. National Geographic Channel: Dan McDonald has been promoted to Executive Director, Programming & Consumer Research, in Washington D.C. National Geographic Channels and FX Networks: Eric Kracht has been named Vice President, Sales, in Detroit.

Digital

Twitter: Baljeet Singh has been named Head, Television and Video, Product Director, in San Francisco.

Publishing

Chicago Tribune Media Group (Tribune Company): Tony Hunter has been named Chief Executive Officer. Hachette Book Group: Kate Harston has been promoted to Executive Editor, Hachette Nashville. Hachette Book Group: Adrienne Ingrum has been promoted to Senior Editor, Hachette Nashville Hachette Book Group: Laini Brown has been promoted to Publicist. Hachette Book Group: Virginia Hensley. Laura Wheeler, and Lauren Rohrig were promoted to Assistant Editor, Hachette Nashville. Hachette Book Group: Lauren Reck has been promoted to Online Marketing Manager, Hachette Nashville. Tribune Publishing: Jack Griffin has been named Chief Executive Officer, effective April 14, 2014. Tribune Publishing: Eddy Hartenstein has been named Non-Executive Chairman, Board of Directors.

Music

ASCAP: Jon Bahr has been promoted to Senior Director, Marketing & Communications, based in New York. Radio One: Laura Clark has joined as National Director of Political and Government Sales.

Marketing

Havas Worldwide: Yannick Bolloré has been promoted to Global Chief Executive Officer. Havas Worldwide: Andrew Benett has been promoted to CEO,  Advertising  Network. He remains Global President, Havas Worldwide. Havas Worldwide: Gian Carlo Lanfranco and Rolando Cordova have each joined as Creative Director and will be based in NY. Specific Media: Todd Scallen and Brian Fisher have both joined as East Coast Sales Directors.

ICYMI: SSN’s Top Original Stories For 3/10 – 3/14/14

March 14, 2014, 7:30 pm

≫ Next: On The Set For 3/17/14: Cate Blanchett Starts ‘Carol’, Bruce Willis Starts ‘Vice’& More

≪ Previous: Exec Shuffle For 3/14/14: 20th Century Fox Television, Warner Bros. Pictures, Cinemark, Sundance TV

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SSN Studio Analysis Part One: Fox Reaps Rewards Overseas

SSN ushers in spring with an in-depth analysis of 20th Century Fox, the only studio we’ve examined that hasn’t spent at least a brief stretch of time in the last five years as the highest-grossing shop in town. Since we’re now two-plus months into 2014, and Fox has only released a trio of films thus far, we’ll look at 2013 as both past and present in Part One. (SSN)

SSN Studio Analysis Part Two: The Heat is On at Fox

Part Two of SSN’s studio analysis of Fox centers on the Fox films of 2013 and what’s still to come. (SSN)

SSN Studio Analysis Part Three: Behind the Corporate Curtain at Fox

There’s no denying that Fox can be a tumultuous place to work. In the wake of Tom Rothman’s 2012 departure, and as DreamWorks head Stacey Snider is poised as his possible replacement, SSN examines what might happen if Snider comes aboard, as well as a look at what life was like at Fox during Rothman’s tenure. (SSN)

SSN Studio Analysis Part Four: Superheroes, Assassins & Chipmunks Fill Fox’s Future

SSN concludes our studio analysis of Fox bytaking a look at what the future has in store for Fox, as well as what Fox has in store for us. This space was previously filled with movies releasing in 2014, but given that we are well into the year, we will be taking a closer look at 2015 and beyond. (SSN)

Spotlight: Alan Ladd, Jr. on Championing ‘Star Wars’ & the Highs and Lows of a Legendary Career

Alan Ladd, Jr.—aka “Laddie”—started as an agent and producer before becoming Head of Creative Affairs and then Pres. of Twentieth Century Fox, championing Star Wars, All That Jazz, Alien and Breaking Away. He eventually went back to producing via The Ladd Company. SSN spoke to Ladd about his time at Twentieth Century Fox, budget problems with Star Wars, and the changes he’s seen within the studio system. (SSN)

Spotlight: Filmmaker Paul Feig on his New Deal at Fox, Peanuts & ‘The Heat’ Spinoff

SSN spoke with Feig about what enticed him to sign with Fox, how he handles studio notes and whether he’ll bring McCarthy and Bullock back together for a spinoff of The Heat. (SSN)  

On The Set For 3/17/14: Cate Blanchett Starts ‘Carol’, Bruce Willis Starts ‘Vice’& More

March 17, 2014, 12:58 pm

≫ Next: TV Development For 3/18/14: Syfy Sets ‘Ascension’ Miniseries From Blumhouse Productions & Sea To Sky Studios

≪ Previous: ICYMI: SSN’s Top Original Stories For 3/10 – 3/14/14

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Starts

Vice 03/16/2014 Logline: In the future, there is a resort where the wealthy can live out their darkest dreams because the staff are lifelike, but not human beings whose memories get reset every night. When one staff member suffers a glitch and starts to remember, she vows revenge. Production Companies:  Emmett/Furla/Oasis Films, Aperture Entertainment Director:  Brian A Miller Executive Producers:  Barry Brooker, Stan Wertlieb, Oliver Simon, Daniel Baur, Tim Sullivan Producers:  Adam Goldworm, George Furla, Randall Emmett Cast: Bruce Willis, Ambyr Childers, Thomas Jane, Johnathon Schaech Screenwriters: Andre Fabrizio, Jeremy Passmore SSN Insight: This reunites Ambyr Childers and Bruce Willis who previously starred in “Set Up” together in 2010. Kill Your Friends 03/10/2014 Studio: Studiocanal Logline: A cutthroat A&R music executive is desperate to find the next big hit and stops at nothing to maintain his success. Production Companies:  Altitude, Warner Music Group, Unigram, Access Industries, Pinewood Studios, World’s End Productions Director: Owen Harris Executive Producers:  Aviv Giladi, Vince Holden, Steve Norris, Ivan Dunleavy, Danny Perkins, Jenny Borgars, Johnny Vaughan Producers: Gregor Cameron, Will Clarke, Andy Mayson, Mike Runagall, Len Vlavatnik, Nicholas Hoult, Kate Buckley, Amanda Ghost, James Sully Cast: Rafe Spall, Nicholas Hoult, Jim Piddock, Craig Roberts, Tom Riley, Edward Hogg, Georgia King Screenwriters:  Owen Harris Details:   Based on the novel “Kill Your Friends” written by John Niven and published by Harper on December 30, 2008. SSN Insight:  This is Owen Harris’ feature debut Reign of the General Logline: Storyline is under wraps. Production Company: Richwater Films Director: Ricci Harnett Executive Producers: Jonathan Sothcott, Neil Jones Cast: Ricci Harnett, Luke Malby, Nabil Elouahabi, Steven Berkoff, Coralie Rose Screenwriters: Ricci Harnett SSN Insight:  Ricci Harnett’s directorial debut. Carol 03/12/2014 Logline: Two women in the 1950’s one older and one younger, fall in love. Production Companies: Number 9 Films, Film4, Killer Films Director:  Todd Hayes Producers: Elizabeth Karlsen, Stephen Woolley, Tessa Ross, Phyllis Nagy Cast: Cate Blanchett, Rooney Mara, Sarah Paulson, Jacob Lacy Screenwriters:  Phyllis Nagy Details: Based on the novel "The Price of Salt" written by Patricia Highsmith and published by Coward-McCann in 1952. SSN Insight: John Crowley was previously attached to direct but exited the project because of scheduling conflicts allowing the opportunity for Cate Blanchett to reunite with Todd Hayes who directed her in “I’m Not There”.

Wraps

The Water Diviner 03/14/2014 Logline: In 1919, an Australian man goes to Turkey to search for his two sons, who are missing after the battle of Gallipoli. Production Company: Fear of God Films, Hopscotch Features Director: Russell Crowe Producers: Troy Lum, Andrew mason, Keith Rodger Cast: Russell Crowe, Olga Kurylenko, Jai Courtney, Yilmaz Erdogan Screenwriters: Andrew Knight, Andrew Anastasios SSN Insight: Directorial Debut of Russell Crowe The Gambler 03/14/2014 Logline: The story of an English professor with a Gambling Problem. Studio: Paramount Pictures Production Companies: Winkler Films, Henceforth Pictures, Chartoff Productions, Leverage Management Director: Rupert Wyatt Executive Producer: James Toback Producers: David Winkler, Irwin Winkler, Robert Chartoff, Sheila Jaffe, Stephen Levinson Cast: Mark Wahlberg, Brie Larson, Travis Tope, Jessica Lange Screenwriters: William Monahan Details: Remake of "The Gambler" (USA/1974) directed by Karel Reisz and starring James Caan and Paul Sorvino, Based on the novella "The Gambler" written by Fyodor Dostoyevsky and published in 1867. SSN Insight: Leonardo DiCaprio was previously attached to direct.

TV Development For 3/18/14: Syfy Sets ‘Ascension’ Miniseries From Blumhouse Productions & Sea To Sky Studios

March 18, 2014, 11:19 am

≫ Next: TV Castings For 3/19/14: Maggie Q Set For CBS’ Untitled Kevin Williamson Project

≪ Previous: On The Set For 3/17/14: Cate Blanchett Starts ‘Carol’, Bruce Willis Starts ‘Vice’& More

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Black Box Network: TNT Production Company: Amblin Television Executive Producers: Jason Fuchs, Justin Falvey, Darryl Frank Writer: Jason Fuchs Logline: Three strangers' lives are forever changed after the accidental crash of a civilian airliner over the Long Island Sound when clues begin to emerge that the crash may not have been accidental. SSN Insight: Fuchs, known as a feature writer, returns to TV after developing Big Thunder last season for ABC. Red Oaks Digital Platform: Amazon Studio: Amazon Studios Executive Producers: Steven Soderbergh, David Gordon Green, Greg Jacobs, Joe Gangemi  Writers: Greg Jacobs, Joe Gangemi Logline: A coming-of-age comedy set at a country club that focuses on the employees and their high-end clientele. Details: Ordered to pilot. SSN Insight: Amazon has recently green lit a few new pilots, which include, Cosmopolitan, Hand Of God, Hysteria and Cocked. Billions Network: Showtime Executive Producers/Writers: Andrew Ross Sorkin, Brian Koppelman, David Levien Logline: The collision and, at times, collusion between an aggressive U.S. attorney in New York and some of the richest hedge fund billionaires in the country. Ascension Network: Syfy Studio: Universal Cable Productions Production Companies: Blumhouse Productions, Sea to Sky Studios Executive Producers: Philip Levens, Jason Blum, Mark Stern, Ivan Fecan, Tim Gamble, Brett Burlock Writer: Philip Levens Logline: Takes place on a century-long space shuttle journey, where hundreds of men, women and children left Earth behind at the start of the Cold War. Nearly 50 years after their covert 1963 mission launched with the intention of colonizing a new world, a young woman is mysteriously murdered, prompting the population to question the nature of the mission as they near the point of no return. Details: Planned as a 6 episode event miniseries to air in November. SSN Insight: This will be Syfy’s first miniseries to air in five years, since 2009’s Alice. Young Money Network: TBD Studio: FOX Television Studios Production Companies: Veritas Entertainment, Shuman Company Executive Producers: Alfredo Barrios Jr., Alan Gasmer, Peter Jaysen, Larry Shuman, David Wolthoff Writer: Alfredo Barrios Jr. Logline: Chronicles the lives and exploits of young Wall Street bankers after the crash of 2008. Details: Based on the book Young Money: Inside The Hidden World Of Wall Street's Post-Crash Recruits, written by Kevin Roose. SSN Insight: Project will be shopped to networks soon.

TV Castings For 3/19/14: Maggie Q Set For CBS’ Untitled Kevin Williamson Project

March 19, 2014, 12:25 pm

≫ Next: Film Development For 3/20/14: Reese Witherspoon To Produce YA Adaptation ‘The Outliers’ For Lionsgate

≪ Previous: TV Development For 3/18/14: Syfy Sets ‘Ascension’ Miniseries From Blumhouse Productions & Sea To Sky Studios

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Pilots

Maggie Q has been cast as the Division Captain in CBS’ Untitled Kevin Williamson Project, that centers around a pair of detectives who handle stalking incidents for the Threat Management Unit of the LAPD. Zoe Boyle and Odette Annable join ABC’s Astronaut Wives Club, that tells the true story of the women behind NASA’s early astronauts and the struggles they face when their lives and families are catapulted into the spotlight overnight. Yael Grobglas, Brett Dier, Ivonne Coll, Andrea Navedo and Justin Baldoni have been cast in CW’s Jane The Virgin, that centers on Jane, a hard-working, religious girl who, due to a series of outrageous events, is accidentally artificially inseminated. Josh Lucas and Janina Gavanker join NBC’s The Mysteries Of Laura, that follows the life and relationships of a female homicide detective who can handle murderous criminals — but not her evil twin children. Brandon Smith is set for NBC’s One Big Happy, that centers on a lesbian and her straight male best friend who get pregnant just as he meets and marries the love of his life. Jared Gilman will play Rebecca Romijn’s son in NBC’s The Pro, about a former tennis doubles champion whose career flamed-out as his misguided investments have left him working as the pro at a tennis and golf club, where he tries to hustle and charm his way back into America’s 1%. Maggie Grace, Joseph Lyle Taylor, David Morse and Sophie Okonedo join CBS’ Untitled Wall Street Project, that follows a smart and sophisticated Wall Street hedge fund trader who served his country in Iraq and has the integrity and desire to do good. Juno Temple, Max Casella and Jack Quaid has been cast in HBO’s Untitled Rock ’n’ Roll drama pilot, that follows the exploits of a cocaine-fueled record executive in New York City circa 1977, when punk, disco and a new form of music called hip-hop collided. Jennifer Aspen and Kyle Jones have booked ABC’s Damaged Goods, about the sexual politics that have changed between men and women in this post-feminist era. Jeremy Luke joins ABC’s Saint Francis, that’s centered on a blue-collar, no-nonsense Long Island cop and family man who butts heads with the modern, liberal world when his 29-year-old sister gets pregnant out of wedlock. John Cho is set as the male lead in ABC’s Selfie, that tells the story of a self-obsessed twenty-something woman who is more concerned with "likes" than being liked. Kyle Howard and Kat Foster have been cast in TBS’ Your Family Or Mine, a comedy about a couple who learns you don't just marry your spouse, you marry their entire family. Thomas Lennon will play opposite Matthew Perry in CBS’ The Odd Couple, a new take on two mismatched roommates — the messy Oscar Madison and the neat freak Felix Ungar. Wendell Pierce and Georgia King will also star. Manish Dayal has been cast in CW’s Identity, that’s centered on a young Brooklynite recruited by the CIA to infiltrate her recently discovered biological family, a wealthy and powerful dynasty in Texas suspected of having criminal alliances across the globe. Melissa George, Oded Fehr, Britne Oldford and Elliot Knight join ABC’s Untitled Richard LaGravenese project, that revolves around the love and rivalry between two equally matched, powerful socialites who play out their obsessive attraction and seduction of each other through their manipulation of others. Geoff Stults has been cast as the lead, in second position to Fox’s Enlisted, in CBS’ Cuz-Bros, that centers on a successful, suave ladies’ man whose perfect life gets turned upside down when a mess of a guy saves his life and then immediately cashes in on his IOU by asking for a place to stay. S. Epatha Merkerson will guest star, and recur if a series is picked up, on NBC’s Babylon Fields, about a town’s residents that come back from the dead. Joe Morton is set for TNT’s Proof, that follows a surgeon who investigates cases of reincarnation, out-of-body experiences, hauntings — all of it looking for verifiable proof, to try to answer one of life’s greatest questions: Is death truly the end, or is there something … beyond? Tom Everett Scott and Niall Matter join TNT’s Guilt By Association, that centers on a Deputy District Attorney who works for the Special Trials unit of the D.A.'s office for L.A. County. Robert Kelly, Sainty Nelsen, Elaine Hendrix and Elizabeth Gilles have been cast in FX’s Sex, Drugs, & Rock & Roll, about a middle-aged rock ‘n roller who desperately wants to be rich and famous. Miguel Sandoval is set for NBC’s Bad Judge, about a hard-living, sexually unapologetic woman who plays with the law, and whose life on the edge is constantly in balance as she also happens to be a judge in the Criminal Court system. Joel David Moore, Barbara Eve Harris and Donnie Keshawarz have been added to ABC’s Forever, about a star medical examiner harboring the secret of his own immortality. Anthony LaPaglia, Graham Rogers, Kim Dickens, Kevin Rahm, Samantha Mathis and David Castro join CBS’ Red Zone, that centers on a retired CIA operative who, when a terrorist event rocks Washington, D.C., is pulled back into action, forced to investigate closer to home where the next generation of terrorists are being bred. Julian Morris, Garret Dillahunt and Alona Tal have joined Amazon’s Hand Of God, that centers on the powerful Judge Harris Pernell, a hard-living, law-bending married man with a high-end call girl on the side who has a religious awakening and starts having visions and hearing voices through his ventilator-bound son that could be God speaking to him. Jama Williamson and Michael Liu sign on for NBC’s Ellen More Or Less, that follows a formerly obese thirty-something woman who has just recently shed the weight and is now experiencing life and relationships from her very unique perspective. Anders Holm, Nick D’Agosto and Andrew Santino have been cast in Fox’s How I Met Your Dad, that follows a group of New York friends and chronicles a female member of the group’s quest to meet her future husband. Katharine McPhee, Eddie Kaye Thomas, Ari Stidham and Jadyn Wong are set for CBS’ Scorpion, about a genius who recruits the world’s greatest intellects to his company where they not only solve the world’s most pressing and significant problems, but also help each other learn to fit-in and live in a world where literally being "one in a billion" can be as lonely as it sounds. Nancy Lenehan has been cast in CBS’ More Time With Family, that’s centered on a guy who changes his career and gives up a life on the road to spend more time at home with his family — but when he gets there, he realizes no one asked him to do that. Josh Helman and Damon Herriman join Starz’s Flesh And Bone, that follows a young ballet dancer, who has a distinctly troubled past, as she joins a prestigious ballet company in New York. Ben Barnes is set for ABC’s Exposed, about an intrepid female journalist who uncovers a vast criminal conspiracy involving both the government and the corporate world. Daniel Henney will join ABC’s Agatha, in which a big city criminologist who is brought in to help local police crack a case involving a shocking string of disappearances. Danny Huston has been cast as the male lead in NBC’s Salvation, about a big family saga set against the backdrop of a Texas mega church. Adam Kaufman and Tommy Savas are set for NBC’s State Of Affairs, that follows a CIA officer who is plucked from the field to become the president's daily briefer, assuming responsibility for targeting America's most critical threats while navigating the unique lifestyle that comes with such a high-powered job. Judith Light will co-star opposite Henry Winkler in ABC’s The Winklers, that centers on an emotionally reserved construction worker who learns about love, life and hugs while unexpectedly living with his in-laws. Rahul Kohli rounds out the CW’s iZombie series regular cast, that centers on a med student-turned-zombie who takes a job in the coroner’s office to gain access to the brains she must reluctantly eat to maintain her humanity. Jason Jones joins NBC’s Love Is Relative, that follows a married-with-children couple who find their life and their habits challenged when the wife’s newly single brother, comes to live with them. Ashton Holmes and Anna Brewster have been cast in CBS’ Untitled David Marshall Grant project, that revolves around quadruplets – three brothers and a sister – who grew up on a reality show. Rachel Dratch is set for Fox’s Dead Boss, that centers on a woman trying to prove her innocence after being falsely accused and convicted of killing her boss. David Cross will guest start in the pilot. Jay R. Ferguson joins CBS’ Save The Date, that centers on a newly single woman, who drunkenly books a wedding venue and is now faced with the task of meeting the right man in time. Macy Gray will guest star, and potentially recur, in Fox’s Empire, about a music superstar determined to take his company, Empire Entertainment, public -- a first in the field of urban entertainment. But when he challenges his three sons to compete for the head job at Empire, he sets in motion internecine forces that could tear his empire -- and his family -- apart. Ryan Pinkston, Matt Cook and Mike Castle have been cast in TBS’ Buzzy’s, about a group of kids from high school, who ran in different circles, and now work together at a local Charlestown, MA barbershop. Sally Hawkins has been cast as a series regular, while Catherine Keener will guest star on FX’s How and Why, about a brilliant scientist who knows nothing about real life. Ethan Peck, Ed Quinn and Hart Bochner join NBC’s Feed Me, about the exploration of adult intimacy and desire that centers on a dysfunctional family bound by love and the restaurant they run together.

Current Series

Andrea Bogart is set to recur on Showtime’s Ray Donovan. Brian Geraghty will guest star. Queen Latifah and Ken Jeong are scheduled to guest star on TV Land’s Hot in Cleveland. Brian Baumgartner will guest-star on CBS’ Criminal Minds. Danielle Panabaker and Carlos Valdes will appear as guest stars on CW’s Arrow. Dwight Yoakam is set to recur in CBS’ Under the Dome. Betsy Brandt joins the second season of Showtime’s Masters of Sex. Bruce Campbell will appear on USA’s Psych. Michael A. Goorjian (Party of Five) will guest star on season five of USA’s Covert Affairs. Franka Potente joins FX's The Bridge.

New Series

Lee Norris will reprise his role as Minkus on Disney Channel’s Girl Meets World. Ben Koldyke joins NBC’s Mr. Robinson, as the gym teacher. Necar Zadegan has been cast as a new series regular in Bravo’s Girlfriends’ Guide To Divorce. Victor Garber and Sonya Walger will recur on Starz’s Power.

Event Series

Anne Heche is set for USA’s Dig, that tells the story of an FBI agent stationed in Jerusalem who, while investigating a murder of a woman archeologist, uncovers a conspiracy 2000 years in the making that threatens to change the course of history.  

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Film Development For 3/20/14: Reese Witherspoon To Produce YA Adaptation ‘The Outliers’ For Lionsgate

March 20, 2014, 12:45 pm

≫ Next: Rep Moves For 3/21/14: ICM Partners, UTA, Paradigm, CAA

≪ Previous: TV Castings For 3/19/14: Maggie Q Set For CBS’ Untitled Kevin Williamson Project

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NEW ATTACHMENTS

Sand Castle Logline: United States soldiers fight to save an Iraqi village. Production Company:  Mark Gordon Company Producer:  Mark Gordon Cast: Nicholas Hoult Writer:  Chris Roessner Director: Seb Edwards  SSN Insight: Project marks the feature directorial debut for commercial director Seb Edwards. Also, writer Chris Roessner was formerly Mark Gordon’s assistant and this script made the 2012 Black List. Wake Logline: A teenage girl has the ability to enter people's dreams, but she gets sucked into a terrible nightmare and goes from observer to participant. Studio/Distributor: Paramount Production Companies:  Gotham/Principal, Hope Town Entertainment, MTV Films Producers:  Ellen Goldsmith-Vein, Lindsay Williams, Jodi Zuckerman, Tish Cyrus, Steven Schneider, Jason Blum, Eddie Gamarra (Executive Producer) Cast: Miley Cyrus Writers: James Ward Byrkit (current draft), Alex Manugian (current draft), Christopher Landon (previous draft) Details: Based on the novel Wake, written by Lisa McMann and published by Simon Pulse on March 4, 2008.  SSN Insight: Project marks reunion of the Rango writers for the first time since Coherence. Untitled Universal/Girl’s Trip Comedy Project Logline: Storyline is under wraps. Studio/Distributor: Universal Production Company:  Will Packer Productions Producers:  Will Packer, Malcolm Lee (Executive Producer) Writer:  Erica Rivinoja Director: Malcolm Lee  SSN Insight:  Project marks Will Packer’s first under his new first-look deal at Universal and under his new company banner.

NEW PROJECTS

The Wolfman Logline: A detective who's also a werewolf comes to terms with his affliction when he begins to use it to punish bad guys, like a serial killer who’s murdering young girls. Production Companies: Macmillan Entertainment, Everest Entertainment Group Producers:  Brendan Deneen, Sean Davis Details: Based on the novel The Wolfman, written by Nicholas Pekearo and published by Tor Books in 2009.  SSN Insight: Project source material was written in 2008 by a later-slain NYPD auxiliary officer and was published posthumously a year later. Macmillan Publishing's Brendan Deneen and Everest’s Sean Davis are working with author Nicholas Pekearo’s mother, Iola Latman, to adapt the story for the screen. The Outliers Logline: When a teenager gets involved with a group called the Outliers who harness intuition and use it as a psychological weapon, they decide to destroy her and she has to run for her life. Studio/Distributor: Lionsgate Production Companies: Mandeville Films/TV, Pacific Standard Producers:  Todd Lieberman, David Hoberman, Reese Witherspoon, Bruna Papandrea Details: Based on the young adult trilogy The Outliers, written by Kimberly McCreight, the first novel to be published in late 2015.  SSN Insight: Lionsgate is hoping to have success off of this young-adult trilogy as they did with The Hunger Games franchise. Imaginary Foe Logline: Storyline is under wraps. Studio/Distributor: Warner Bros. Production Company:  KatzSmith Productions Producers:  David Katzenberg, Seth Grahame-Smith Writer: Rocco Pucillo SSN Insight: Project marks the first sale for writer Rocco Pucillo who won the top prize at the Samuel Goldwyn Writing Awards in 2013.

Rep Moves For 3/21/14: ICM Partners, UTA, Paradigm, CAA

March 21, 2014, 5:55 am

≫ Next: Exec Shuffle For 3/21/14: Warner Horizon Scripted Television, Good Universe, Micro Films Group, IFC

≪ Previous: Film Development For 3/20/14: Reese Witherspoon To Produce YA Adaptation ‘The Outliers’ For Lionsgate

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Agencies

CAA: Actress Abigail Breslin is now repped by Franklin Latt, Bryan O’Guin and Peter Levine. She was previously with ICM Partners. Breslin most recently appeared in the 2013 feature film August: Osage County. She also had roles in The Call, opposite Halle Barry, and Ender’s Game, opposite Asa Butterfield. Starting her career with 2002’s Signs, Breslin rocketed to fame with the indie hit Little Miss Sunshine. Since then, she has appeared in such features as No Reservations, Nim’s Island, Definitely, Maybe, My Sister’s Keeper, Zombieland and Rango. Next up, Breslin has parts in the features Perfect Sister, Maggie and Final Girl. Breslin received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in Little Miss Sunshine. CAA: Actor and filmmaker Eugenio Derbez is now repped by Jason Heyman, Tony Etz, Steve Lashever and Christy Haubegger. Derbez most recently wrote, directed and starred in the 2013 hit feature Instructions Not Included. One of the most recognizable Latino actors in the world, Derbez is probably best known for creating and starring in the series La familia P. Luche, as well as the series XHDRBZ and Vecinos. His extensive resume includes providing the voice of Donkey in the Spanish-language Shrek and U.S. credits include such features as Girl in Progress, Under the Same Moon, Beverly Hills Chihuahua and Jack and Jill. Next up, Derbez will provide a voice in Guillermo del Toro’s animated comedy Book of Life, currently in production. ICM Partners: Indie writer and director Gregg Araki is now repped by Kevin Crotty and Joanne Wiles. Araki’s latest film White Bird in a Blizzard premiered last January at Sundance. Starting out as part of the New Queer Cinema movement in the nineties, Araki made his directorial debut with 1987’s Three Bewildered People in the Night on a budget of only $5000. He has since made eleven films, including 2004’s Mysterious Skin, Kaboom, The Doom Generation and Smiley Face, which starred Anna Farris. Araki’s White Bird in a Blizzard was based on the Laura Kasischke book and stars Shailene Woodley and Eva Green. ICM Partners: Actress, comedian, author and producer Ali Wentworth is now repped by Ruthanne Secunda and Ted Chervin. Wentworth currently hosts the web series Daily Shot with Ali Wentworth, which is broadcast online on Yahoo! Shine. Starting off as a cast member on Fox’s In Living Color, Wentworth’s screen credits have included Jerry Maguire, Office Space and It’s Complicated amongst others. She also created, produced and starred in the Starz comedy series Head Case, which ran 2007 to2009. Wentworth is an author as well, having penned the best selling Ali in Wonderland: And Other Tall Tales in 2012. Paradigm: Actor and writer Greg Poehler is now repped by Shawn Scallon, Jim Dempsey, Nick LoPiccolo and Ken Stovitz.  Poehler is currently writing, producing and starring in the new comedy series Welcome to Sweden, currently set to air on NBC later this year. The series will also star Josephine Bornebusch and was originally commissioned by Sweden’s TV4 as the network’s first English-speaking series. It was acquired by NBC in October. In May 2013, Poehler also launched the production company, Syskon, alongside his sister Amy Poehler. Paradigm: Actor Valter Skarsgård is now repped by Nate Bryson, Jason Cunningham and Nick LoPiccolo. Skarsgård, 18, the son of Stellan Skarsgård, has followed his older brothers Alexander (True Blood), Gustaf (Vikings), and Bill Skarsgård (Hemlock Grove) to Hollywood. Skarsgård most recently starred in the feature film IRL, earning him a nomination for the Rising Star Award at the Stockholm Film festival. His other credits have included SVT’s Doorcode 1321 and Entertainment One’s Arn. Skarsgård is also repped by Aleksandra Mandic at Agentfirman Planthaber/Kilden/Mandic in Sweden. UTA: Eight-year old British singer Sophia Grace Brownlee is now repped by Brian Nossokoff, Jordan Berkus, and Jason Egenberg. Brownlee launched to fame after her cover of Nicki Minaj’s “Super Bass” went viral. Brownlee has since become a frequent guest on Ellen: The Ellen Degeneres Show. She has also appeared on the Nickelodeon series Sam & Cat, as well as The Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade (2012), The Teen Choice Awards 2012 and The Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards 2013. UTA: Director Allen Coulter is now repped by Geoff Morley, Matt Rice, Mickey Berman, Josh Hornstock, Richard Klubeck, and Julien Thuan. Coulter is currently directing the opening episode of the upcoming Halle Barry series Extant. He also recently directed episodes of Boardwalk Empire, Ray Donovan and House of Cards. Probably best known for his work on The Sopranos, Coulter has led an extensive career in film and television, directing episodes of such series as Damages, Nurse Jackie and Sex and the City, as well as the features Remember Me and Hollywoodland. Coulter remains co-repped by Paul Alan Smith at Equitable Stewardship for Artists. UTA: Brooklyn-based writer and director Gillian Robespierre is now repped by Emerson Davis, Marissa Devins, Richard Klubeck and Melissa Wells. Robespierre recently made her feature film directorial debut with Obvious Child. The feature comedy, which stars Jenny Slate and Jake Lacy, was a hit when debuted at this year’s Sundance Film Festival. It has since been acquired by A24 for distribution. Graduating from the School of Visual Arts’ Film & Video Program, Robespierre originally made Obvious Child as a short film in 2009 and that film went on to play a series of film festivals. The feature version of Obvious Child is set for a June 6^th release.  

Exec Shuffle For 3/21/14: Warner Horizon Scripted Television, Good Universe, Micro Films Group, IFC

March 21, 2014, 6:00 am

≫ Next: ICYMI: SSN’S Top Original Stories For 3/17 – 3/21/14

≪ Previous: Rep Moves For 3/21/14: ICM Partners, UTA, Paradigm, CAA

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Company Launches

Layer3 TV: This Boston-based company has launched as a “next generation cable provider,” with plans to open an office in Denver.  Jeff Binder was named Chief Executive Officer, Dave Fellows has joined as Chief Technology Officer, Chuck Hasek became Vice President, Video Technology, Eric Kuhn was named Vice President, Marketing, and Vic Odryna was named Vice President, Product Development. Morocco Junction Entertainment: Heather Schuster has formed this production company and was named Chief Executive Officer. The company is partnered with All3Media, and based out of All3Media’s Los Angeles offices. Stellify Media: Sony Pictures Television has teamed with executives Kieran Doherty and Matt Worthy to form this Belfast-based joint venture, which will produce entertainment content for U.K. broadcasters, as well as international export.

Studios, Networks, and Media Conglomerates

BBC Worldwide: Jay Tallon was named Senior Vice President, High Growth Markets, Central Europe, Middle East, and Africa, in London. Disney-ABC Television Group: Emerlynn Lampitoc has been promoted to Manager, Creative Talent Development & Inclusion. Fox Networks: David Espinosa has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Distribution, Strategic Analysis. Fox Networks: Jessica Fang has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Distribution, National Accounts. Warner Horizon Scripted Television: Brett Paul and Susan Rovner have been named Co-Presidents.

Film

Boies/Schiller Film Group: Devin Andre has joined as Vice President. British Film Institute (BFI): New appointees to the Board of Governors include Andrea Wong, Pete Czernin, and Jonathan Ross. Good Universe: Hannah Ozer has joined as Creative Executive. Micro Films Group: Buzz Koenig has joined as Vice President, Production. Micro Films Group: Paul Telner has joined as Vice President, Television. Technicolor: Tim Sarnoff was named President, Production Services. Technicolor: Claude Gagnon has been named Senior Vice President, Content Solutions & Industry Relations.

Television

Banijay: Emmanuelle Namiech has joined to head a new acquisition drive aimed at acquiring English language non-scripted programming. Dynamic Television: Klaus Zimmermann has joined as Managing Partner, and will spearhead new offices of the Los Angeles-based company in Berlin and Paris. Halfire Entertainment: Julie Hope has joined as Chief Operating Officer. Hypnotic: Sarah Gardner has been hired as Creative Executive, Television.

Agencies, Management Companies, Public Relations, and Law Firms

CAA: Trevor Astbury and Ida Ziniti have joined as Agents, Motion Picture Literary. ICM Partners: Alexandra Machinist has joined as Agent, Literary, in New York. Kaplan/Perrone Entertainment: Michael Wilson has been promoted to Manager, Literary. Paradigm: Adam Kanter and Martin Spencer have joined as Agents. WME: Stuart Manashil has joined as Agent, Motion Picture Literary.

Cable

A&E: Mark Apter has been named Senior Vice President, Program Planning & Acquisitions, in New York. A&E: Drew Tappon has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Development & Programming, in New York. AMCN Chellomedia: Alejandro Harrison has joined as President, Business Development. BET Networks: Brian Broughton has been promoted to Vice President, Associate General Counsel, Business and Legal Affairs. Bravo Media and Oxygen Media: Jamie Cutburth has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Partnership Marketing in New York. Bravo Media and Oxygen Media: Adam Zeller was named Vice President, Social Media, in New York. Bravo Media: Maria Laino DeLuca has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Trade and Consumer Marketing, in New York. Bravo Media: Amy Troiano has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Creative and Brand Strategy. Bravo Media: Taryn Winkelman has joined as Vice President, Consumer Marketing, in New York. Discovery Fit & Health: Jane Latman has been named General Manager, in Maryland.  She also remains Senior Vice President, Development, at Investigation Discovery. Discovery Networks International: Douglas Baker has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer, in Maryland. IFC: Peter Aronson has been hired as Executive Vice President, Original Programming and Production. Oxygen Media: Jeff Nichols has joined as Vice President, On-Air Promotions, in New York. Ovation: Pam Bertino has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Content Distribution. Ovation: Anup Thakkar has been named Director, Business Development, Content Distribution. Starz: Cameron Angeli was named Director, Production, Original Programming. Travel Channel: Brigitte McCray has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Program Planning & Strategy, in Maryland. UKTV: Richard Watsham has been named Director, Commissioning, in London. VH1: Nina Diaz has joined as Senior Vice President, East Coast Production and Development, in New York.

Digital

Machinima: Anthony Vinciquerra has joined the Board of Directors.

Publishing

People Magazine: Betsy Gleick has been promoted to Deputy Editor, Human Interest. People Magazine: Henry Goldblatt has joined as Deputy Editor and Brand Director. People Magazine: JD Heyman has been promoted to Deputy Editor, Entertainment. People Magazine: Liz Sporkin has been promoted to Executive Projects Director. Tribune Company: Keith Bowen has been hired as Chief Revenue Officer, effective April 1st, 2014.

Music

Billboard: Tasha Green will join as Fashion Editor, effective March 31st, 2014. Epic Records: Sylvia Rhone has been appointed President. Primary Wave Music: Eric Benét has been appointed Head, Urban AC Division.

ICYMI: SSN’S Top Original Stories For 3/17 – 3/21/14

March 22, 2014, 3:02 pm

≫ Next: ‘On The Set’ For 3/24/14: Nicole Kidman Starts ‘Strangerland’, ‘Frankenstein’ Wraps For 20th Century Fox

≪ Previous: Exec Shuffle For 3/21/14: Warner Horizon Scripted Television, Good Universe, Micro Films Group, IFC

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SSN A-List: The Hottest Book-To-Film Dealmakers to Watch

SSN presents the first in our new A-List series, showcasing a curated selection of agents, managers and financiers for writers, actors, and filmmakers. (SSN)

SSN A-List: 6 Film Financiers to Get Your Movie the Green-light

Wherever there are films being made, there are companies financing them, no matter what the economy is like, no matter the risk. SSN has selected a handful to feature here, with a look at their previous projects, what they’re looking for now, and SSN’s insight to each, from Voltage Pictures to Red Granite Pictures, and more. (SSN)

SSN A-List: Lit Managers and Agents for Up & Coming Writers

It’s tough out there for writers. In order to break into the industry, you need someone to help guide your career, develop material, and navigate the ups and downs of deal-making. Today we’re taking a look at several literary agents and managers we think are best to shepherd an up and coming career or get your existing one on track. (SSN)

SSN A-List: The Leading Reps for Up-and-Coming TV Talent

The smartest agents and managers look ahead; sign and nurture who they feel will be the brightest breakouts of tomorrow. Pilot season is when they see just how strong some of the up-and-comers are, and today quite a few are reaping the rewards – SSN takes a look, from ICM Partners and Resolution to TalentWorks and UTA. (SSN)

Hollywood Success Stories: Three Ways Working Hollywood Professionals Made It in the Business

To anyone looking to make it in entertainment, looking to reinvent themselves in entertainment, or simply glean some knowledge and apply it to your life, read on for inspiration for three main categories of success — they just started, they leveraged an opportunity and they didn’t give up. (SSN)  

‘On The Set’ For 3/24/14: Nicole Kidman Starts ‘Strangerland’, ‘Frankenstein’ Wraps For 20th Century Fox

March 24, 2014, 12:49 pm

≫ Next: TV Castings For 3/26/14: Sharon Gless Joins ABC’s ‘Saint Francis’ Cast

≪ Previous: ICYMI: SSN’S Top Original Stories For 3/17 – 3/21/14

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Starts

A Perfect Day 03/17/2014 Logline: A diverse group of aid workers in a conflict zone have different attitudes toward their situation. Production Companies: Mediapro, Reposado PC Director: Fernando Leon De Aranoa Executive Producers: Javier Mendez, Patricia de Muns Producers: Jaume Roures, Fernando Leon De Aranoa Cast: Benicio Del Toro, Tim Robbins, Olga Kurylenko, Melanie Thierry, Fedja Stukan Screenwriter: Fernando Leon De Aranoa (adaptation) Details: Based on the novel Dejarse Llover written by Paula Farias and published by Pozuelo de Alarcon in 2005. SSN Insight: Fernando Leon De Aranoa’s English language debut. Absolutely Anything 03/24/2014 Logline: Aliens give a man the ability to invoke magical powers to do anything he likes, just to see what happens. A talking dog provides analysis of the chaos that ensues. Production Companies:  Phoenix Pictures, Bill and Ben Productions Director: Terry Jones Executive Producers: Mike Medavoy, Chris Chesser Producers: David Thwaites, Ben Timlett, Bill Jones Cast: Rob Riggle, Kate Beckinsale, Simon Pegg, Robin Williams (voice), Michael Palin (voice), John Cleese (voice), Terry Gilliam (voice) Screenwriters: Terry Jones, Gavin Scott SSN Insight: This is the first film that Monty Python member Terry Jones has directed since The Wind in the Willows in 1996. Strangerland 03/24/2014 Logline: The Parker family finds their dull life in a rural out-back town rocked after their two teenage children disappear into the desert, sparking disturbing rumors of their past. Production Companies: Dragonfly Pictures Pty Ltd, Fastnet Films, Worldview Entertainment Director:  Kim Farrant Executive Producers: Christopher Woodrow, Molly Conners, Maria Cestone, Sarah E. Johnson, Andrew Mackie, Richard Payten Producers: Naomi Wenck, Macdara Kelleher Cast: Nicole Kidman, Hugo Weaving, Guy Pearce Screenwriters: Michael Kinirons, Fiona Seres SSN Insight: This reunites Hugo Weaving with Nicole Kidman, who previously starred in Eucalyptus together. Gods of Egypt 03/20/2014 Logline: A mortal, a god and a goddess unite to fight an evil force in ancient Egypt. Studio: Summit Entertainment Production Companies: Thunder Road Pictures, Mystery Clock Cinema Director: Alex Proyas Executive Producers: Kent Kubena, Stephen Jones, Topher dow Producers: Basil Iwanyk, Alex Proyas Cast: Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Gerard Butler, Geoffrey Rush, Brenton Thwaites, Courtney Eaton Screenwriters: Alex Proyas, Matt Sazama, Burk Sharpless SSN Insight: This is newcomer Courtney Eaton’s second major movie role.

Wraps

Frankenstein 03/20/2014 Logline: A medical student and a former outcast work together to build a creature made from various body parts harvested from corpses. Studio: 20th Century Fox Production Company: Davis Entertainment Director: Paul McGuigan Producers: John Davis Cast: Daniel Radcliffe, James McAvoy, Jessica Brown Findlay Screenwriter: Max Landis (adaptation) Details: Based on the novel Frankenstein, written by Mary Shelley and originally published by Lackington, Hughes, Harding, Mavor & Jones in March 1818. SSN Insight: Shawn Levy was previously attached to direct.

TV Castings For 3/26/14: Sharon Gless Joins ABC’s ‘Saint Francis’ Cast

March 26, 2014, 1:05 pm

≫ Next: Film Development For 3/27/14: Adam Scott Joins ‘Sleeping With Other People’ For Gary Sanchez Productions

≪ Previous: ‘On The Set’ For 3/24/14: Nicole Kidman Starts ‘Strangerland’, ‘Frankenstein’ Wraps For 20th Century Fox

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Pilots

Sharon Gless has been cast in ABC’s Saint Francis, centered on a blue-collar, no-nonsense Long Island cop and family man who butts heads with the modern, liberal world when his 29-year-old sister gets pregnant out of wedlock. Sara Chase and Lauren Adams have joined NBC’s Tooken, about a woman who escapes from a doomsday cult and starts life over in New York City. Debra Monk will play Mary-Louise Parker’s Mom in NBC’s Feed Me, about the exploration of adult intimacy and desire that centers on a dysfunctional family bound by love and the restaurant they run together. Desmond Harrington is set for ABC’s Astronaut Wives Club, that tells the true story of the women behind NASA’s early astronauts and the struggles they face when their lives and families are catapulted into the spotlight overnight. Leslie Odom, Jr. will play the Chief of Staff, and Alfre Woodard will play the President, on NBC’s State Of Affairs. Series follows a CIA officer who is plucked from the field to become the president's daily briefer, assuming responsibility for targeting America's most critical threats while navigating the unique lifestyle that comes with such a high-powered job. Rebecca Corry joins NBC’s One Big Happy, about a lesbian and her straight male best friend who get pregnant just as he meets and marries the love of his life. Sam Shepard will play the patriarch in Netflix’s Untitled Kessler/Zelman Project, focusing on a family of adult siblings whose secrets and scars are revealed when their black sheep brother returns home. Tracey Ullman is set for CBS’ Good Sessions, that explores (via couples counseling sessions) the relationship of a thirty-something couple from their first meeting (in flashback) through present day, as they decide whether it’s time to have a child. Anna Nogueira has also joined the cast. Patricia Wettig has joined CW’s Identity, about a young Brooklynite recruited by the CIA to infiltrate her recently discovered biological family, a wealthy and powerful dynasty in Texas suspected of having criminal alliances across the globe. Craig Frank will guest star, and recur if the project is ordered to series, in CW’s The Messengers, that follows a group of seemingly unconnected strangers who died from the energy pulse, but then awoke to learn that they have been deemed responsible for preventing the impending Apocalypse. Michael Chernus has rounded out the series regular cast, while David Harbour will recur, on WGN’s Manhattan, set against the backdrop of the clandestine mission to build the world’s first atomic bomb in Los Alamos, New Mexico. Plot follows the brilliant but flawed scientists and their families as they attempt to co-exist in a world where secrets and lies infiltrate every aspect of their lives. Shaun Evans has been cast as the lead in Amazon’s Cosmopolitan, about a group of young American expatriates in Paris who have a difficult time assuaging their loneliness as they search for love and friendship in a foreign city. Mena Suvari is set as the lead in Amazon’s Hysteria, about a doctor that travels to her hometown of Houston to investigate an epidemic among high school girls that may be spreading through technology. Vanessa Aspillaga will recur in Starz’s Flesh And Bone, that follows a young ballet dancer, who has a distinctly troubled past, as she joins a prestigious ballet company in New York. Leah Renee and Eric Nenninger have joined NBC’s Mission Control, that examines what happens when a strong woman butts heads with a macho astronaut in the race to land on the moon. Dan Bucatinsky will guest star, and potentially recur, on ABC’s Marry Me, centered on a young couple who get engaged, something they quickly realize is harder than it looks. Alfred Molina has been set for El Rey’s Matador, about a soccer star whose sports career is a cover for his real job as a skilled covert operative for a little known branch of the CIA. Jonny Cruz and Dylan Bruce will recur. Lindsay Sloane joins CBS’ The Odd Couple, about two mismatched roommates Betsy Brandt and Maria Canals-Barrera are set for ABC’s The Club, an upstairs/downstairs soap set at a private country club. Matthew Modine has been cast in TNT’s Proof, that follows a surgeon who investigates cases of reincarnation, out-of-body experiences, hauntings — all of it looking for verifiable proof, to try to answer one of life’s greatest questions: Is death truly the end, or is there something … beyond? Nick Frost will topline CBS’ Sober Companion, about an out-of-control lawyer forced to enlist a sober companion in order to get his life back on track. Debra Jo Rupp and Andrea Anders join CBS’ Cuz-Bros, that centers on a successful, suave ladies’ man whose perfect life gets turned upside down when a mess of a guy saves his life and then immediately cashes in on his IOU by asking for a place to stay. Joseph A. Nunez has booked a role on ABC’s The Winklers, about an emotionally reserved construction worker who learns about love, life and hugs while unexpectedly living with his in-laws. Victor Rasuk rounds out the series regular cast for CBS’ Untitled Kevin Williamson Project, that centers around a pair of detectives who handle stalking incidents for the Threat Management Unit of the LAPD.

Current Series

Heather McComb has landed a recurring role on Season 2 of Showtime’s Ray Donovan. Mia Vallet is scheduled to recur on NBC’s Believe. Amanda Righetti willplay a pediatrician on NBC’s Chicago Fire and Chicago P.D. Gil Bellows (Ally McBeal) will guest star as a wealthy casino mogul on CBS’ CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. Kevin McKidd will guest star in season four of USA’s Franklin & Bash. Creed Bratton is set to appear as a judge in a separate episode. Patton Oswalt joins ABC’s Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. Amy Acker will guest star. Tim DeKay(White Collar) will play a mysterious entrepreneur in ABC’s Revenge. Kelli Williams has been booked as a guest star on CBS’ NCIS. Martin Lawrence and Brandy Norwood will guest star on the live episode of TV Lands The Soul Man. B.O.B will perform. Perrey Reeves will recur on USA’s Covert Affairs. Linus Roache is set to guest star on NBC’s The Blacklist.

Event Series

Alison Sudol will play an American intern on USA’s Dig, that tells the story of an FBI agent stationed in Jerusalem who, while investigating a murder of a woman archeologist, uncovers a conspiracy 2000 years in the making that threatens to change the course of history.  

Film Development For 3/27/14: Adam Scott Joins ‘Sleeping With Other People’ For Gary Sanchez Productions

March 27, 2014, 12:52 pm

≫ Next: Rep Moves For 3/28/14: Resolution, WME, UTA, APA

≪ Previous: TV Castings For 3/26/14: Sharon Gless Joins ABC’s ‘Saint Francis’ Cast

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NEW ATTACHMENTS

Sleeping With Other People Logline: A good-natured womanizer befriends a remorseful serial cheater. Production Company:  Gary Sanchez Productions Producers:  Will Ferrell, Adam McKay, Jessica Elbaum Cast: Jason Sudekis, Alison Brie, Adam Scott Writer:  Leslye Headland Director: Leslye Headland  SSN Insight: Project reunites actor Adam Scott with his Bachelorette writer/director Leslye Headland. The Jungle Book Logline: A young boy is raised in the wild by wolves and taught the ways of the jungle by various animals. Studio/Distributor: Warner Bros. Production Company:  The Imaginarium Producers:  Steve Kloves, Jonathan Cavendish, Andy Serkis Writer: Callie Kloves Director: Andy Serkis Details: Based on the book The Jungle Book, written by Rudyard Kipling in 1894.  SSN Insight: Project marks the directorial debut of actor Andy Serkis. Ghostbusters III Logline: Storyline is under wraps. Studio/Distributor: Columbia Pictures/Sony Pictures Releasing International Production Companies:   Ocean Pictures, Apatow Productions, Montecito Pictures Producers:  Ivan Reitman, Dan Aykroyd, Gene Stupnitsky, Lee Eisenberg, Judd Apatow (Co-Producer) Cast: Jonah Hill, Emma Stone, Bill Hader, Will Forte, Dan Aykroyd Writers:  Etan Cohen (current draft), Dan Aykroyd (previous draft), Ivan Reitman (previous draft), Lee Eisenberg (previous draft), Gene Stupnitsky (previous draft) Directors: Chris Miller & Phil Lord Details: Sequel to Ghostbusters (USA/1984) and Ghostbusters II (USA/1989) both directed by Ivan Reitman and starring Bill Murray, Dan Akroyd, Harold Ramis, Ernie Hudson and Sigourney Weaver.  SSN Insight: Hot off the success of The Lego Movie and the upcoming 22 Jump Street, the directing duo of Chris Miller & Phil Lord will take the reins from Ivan Reitman, who retains his role as a producer on the project.

NEW PROJECTS

Paper Towns Logline: When Quentin is drafted by Margo, the school's queen of cool, to be her accomplice in an all-night revenge spree against her jock ex-boyfriend, he finds himself getting closer to his dream girl. Studio/Distributor: Fox 2000 Production Company:  Temple Hill Entertainment Producers:  Wyck Godfrey, Marty Bowen Cast: Nat Wolff Writers:  Scott Neustadter, Michael H. Weber Details: Based on the novel Paper Towns, written by John Green and published by Dutton Juvenile on October 16, 2008. SSN Insight: Project reunites the writers and producers of Fault in Our Stars. Vacation Friends Logline: A straight-laced couple has fun with a wild couple on vacation in Mexico, but when they go home, their crazy new friends won’t leave them alone. Studio/Distributor: 20^th Century Fox Production Company:  Broken Road Productions Producer: Todd Garner Cast: Chris Pratt, Anna Faris Writers:  Tim Mullen (spec), Tom Mullen (spec), Steve Pink (rewrite) Director: Steve Pink SSN Insight: Project couples real-life married couple Anna Faris & Chris Pratt along with the brothers writing duo. Ade: A Love Story Logline: An American student traveling in Africa falls in love with a young Muslim man on an island off the coast of Kenya. Production Company:  Bruce Cohen Productions Producers:  Bruce Cohen, Jessica Leventhal, Rebecca Walker Director: Madonna Details: Based on the novel Ade: A Love Story,written by Rebecca Walker and published by New Harvest/Houghton Mifflin Harcourt on October 29, 2013.  SSN Insight: Project marks Madonna’s sophomore directing gig. Project is an adaptation of the debut novel from Alice Walker’s daughter, Rebecca Walker.

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Rep Moves For 3/28/14: Resolution, WME, UTA, APA

March 28, 2014, 5:59 am

≫ Next: Exec Shuffle For 3/28/14: ABC Entertainment, Atomic Fiction, Exclusive Media, Legendary Entertainment, AMC Networks

≪ Previous: Film Development For 3/27/14: Adam Scott Joins ‘Sleeping With Other People’ For Gary Sanchez Productions

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Agencies

APA: British-born actor Tom McKay is now repped by Jonathan Perry, Carlos Carreras and Arielle Mesirow. McKay most recently starred as Japer Tudor in the BBC drama series The White Queen. He also appeared as Jim McCoy in the Hatfields & McCoys miniseries. In addition to extensive theater work, McKay’s credits have included the U.K. television series Silent Witness, Casualty, Doctors and The Little House. His feature credits have included Trip City, Clubbed, and Wrong Turn 3: Left for Dead.Next up, McKay will appear in the television series The Lost Legion, as well as the feature Kill Command, currently in post. ICM Partners: Actor Mark Ryder is now repped by Carter Cohn, Joanne Wiles and Andrew Kurland. Ryder currently stars as Cesare Borgia in Tom Fontana’s drama series Borgia, shown on Sky Italia and Netflix. He also appeared in the 2012 feature film Good Vibrations. Ryder’s other credits have included the features Five Minutes of Heaven, Albatross and 2010’s Robin Hood, opposite Russell Crowe. His television credits include Small Island and Coming up. The third season of Borgia is currently in production. Innovative Artists: Actor and comedian Lavell Crawford is now repped by Ian Arougheti and Joe Eshenbaugh. Crawford is probably best known for playing Saul Goodman’s bodyguard Huell Babineaux on AMC’s landmark series Breaking Bad. Starting his career as a stand-up in the 2000s, Crawford appeared in Season 5 of Last Comic Standing in 2007, placing as a finalist, and he has since appeared in such series as It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Tosh.O, Crazy Ones and Super Fun Night.  He also starred in the feature comedy Who’s Watching the Kids. Crawford will next be seen in the feature film Evil Nature. Resolution: Actress Taryn Manning is now repped by Steve Alexander and Kevin Hussey. Manning was recently upped to a series regular on Netflix’s Orange is the New Black.  She also appears in a recurring role on Hawaii Five-O. Starting out in television in the nineties, Manning made her film debut with Crazy/Beautiful in 2001. She has since appeared in such features as 8 Mile, Redemption Road and Hustle & Flow. Manning’s other television credits have included recurring roles on Get Real, Drive and Sons of Anarchy.  Outside of her acting career, Manning is the vocalist for the electronic duo Boomkat and the co-owner of the clothing brand Born Uniqorn. Next up, Manning will appear in the features Almost Broadway and #Horror. UTA: Writer and director Benjamin Renner is now a client. Renner is the co-director of the animated feature Ernest & Celestine, which received an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature earlier this year. Previously, Renner directed the short film La Queue de la Souris (A Mouse's Tale) in 2012. Ernest & Celestine was based on the children’s books by author and illustrator Gabrielle Vincent and the English language version features the voices of Forest Whitaker, Mackenzie Foy, Paul Giamatti and Lauren Bacall.  Renner is currently working on a graphic novel and a short film that he hopes to extend into a feature film. WME Entertainment: Supermodel, actress and entrepreneur Kathy Ireland is now a client. Ireland is currently the CEO and chief designer of Kathy Ireland Worldwide, which has been cited by Forbes as grossing $2 billion in retail annually. Starting her career as a model, Ireland appeared in 13 consecutive issues of the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue, landing on its cover three times. She also appeared on the covers of Vogue and Cosmopolitan amongst others. One of the wealthiest former models in the world, Ireland’s companies currently market more than 15,000 products in 50 countries. WME Entertainment: Actor Michael Kenneth Williams is now a client. Williams currently stars as Chalky White on HBO’s Boardwalk Empire. He also recently appeared in 12 Years a Slave and Robocop. Williams is probably best known, however, for his role as Omar Little on HBO’s seminal television series The Wire. Getting his start as a background dancer in music videos and on tour with George Michael and Madonna, Williams began acting in the nineties and he has appeared in such features as Bullet, Bringing Out the Dead, The Road, Gone Baby Gone and Brooklyn’s Finest. Television-wise, Williams had a recurring role on J.J. Abrams’ Alias and he has also appeared on CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, The Sopranos and Community. Next up, Williams is slated to appear in The Purge: Anarchy and P.T. Anderson’s next film Inherent Vice. WME Entertainment: Writer, director and producer Robert Zemeckis is now a client.  Zemeckis is currently in pre-production on the 3D experimental feature To Walk the Clouds, which will star Joseph Gordon-Levitt. He also recently directed the 2012 feature Flight, starring Denzel Washington. One of the most successful directors in film history, Zemeckis’ features have included such classics as Used Cars, Romancing the Stone, Who Framed Roger Rabbit, Death Becomes Her, Forrest Gump, Contact, Cast Away, What Lies Beneath, The Polar Express and the Back to the Future trilogy. Zemeckis won an Academy Award for Best Director for his work on Forrest Gump, which won a total of six Academy Awards in 1994, including Best Picture.

Exec Shuffle For 3/28/14: ABC Entertainment, Atomic Fiction, Exclusive Media, Legendary Entertainment, AMC Networks

March 28, 2014, 6:05 am

≫ Next: ICYMI: SSN’S Top Original Stories For 3/24 – 3/28/14

≪ Previous: Rep Moves For 3/28/14: Resolution, WME, UTA, APA

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Company Launches

Antidote Media: Leila Monks has formed this company, in London, to provide consulting services to producers, production companies, and distributors in the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia. A Thing or Two Productions: Actors Ben McKenzie and Logan Marshall-Green have launched this production company after recently making a deal with Tristar Pictures for a baseball memoir that they will produce with Tom DeLuca. Cosmopolitan Pictures: BBC Worldwide’s Ben Donald has partnered with Clerkenwell Films to launch this indie production company, which aims to produce and develop "distinctive, ambitious drama for the U.K. and international markets." DRG Formats: Independent television distributor DRG has launched this stand-alone division to handle their global scripted and unscripted formats business. DRG’s Managing Director of Acquisitions and Formats Andrea Jackson will head the division. Seville International: Canada’s Entertainment One has launched this indie sales division, which will focus on independent films with crossover potential and arthouse films with awards pedigree.  Anick Poirier, who has been promoted to Vice President of International Sales, will head the division. White Horse Pictures: Nigel Sinclair and Guy East have formed this venture to develop high-quality film, television, and new media content.

Studios, Networks, and Media Conglomerates

21^st Century Fox: Lachlan Murdoch has been promoted to Non-Executive Co-Chairman. 21^st Century Fox: James Murdoch has been promoted to Co-Chief Operating Officer. ABC Entertainment: Jason Sarlanis has joined as Vice President, Alternative Series. CBS Marketing Group: Mitch Cardwell was promoted to Vice President, Digital Content & Design. CBS Television Distribution: Elaine Bauer-Brooks has joined as Executive Vice President, Development. Disney ABC Television Group and Disney Media Networks: Ben Sherwood was named President, Disney ABC Television Group, and Co-Chairman, Disney Media Networks, effective February 1^st, 2015.

Film

Atomic Fiction: Marc Sadeghi has joined as President, Visual Effects. Atomic Fiction: Sandra Scott has been promoted to Executive Vice President and Head, Production. Canadian Film Center: Marc Jordan has been named Songwriting Chair, Slaight Family Music Lab. Exclusive Media: Marc Schipper has been named Chief Executive Officer. Film Movement: Michael Rosenberg has joined as Co-President, in New York. Levantine Films: Donna Gigliotti has joined as President, in New York. Levantine Films: Renee Witt has joined as Vice President, in New York.

Television

Hud:sun Media: RJ Larese has joined as Manager, Development. Keshet International: Sammy Nourmand has been named Chief Operating Officer, in London. Legendary Television: Noah Greenshner has joined as Vice President, Scripted Development. Portfolio Entertainment Trent Locke has joined as Vice President, Finance, and Chief Operating Officer, in Toronto. Screaming Flea Productions: Mike Kelly has joined as Vice President, Production, in Seattle. Zig Zag Productions: Matt Graff has joined as Vice President, Commercial & Current Production, in London.

Agencies, Management Companies, Public Relations, and Law Firms

APA: Andy Somers has joined as Vice President, Concerts. Don Buchwald & Associates: Pam Goldman has been promoted to Head, Commercial Youth, in New York Don Buchwald & Associates: Tim Weissman has joined as an Agent. Don Buchwald & Associates: Leslie Zaslowe has joined as Head, Youth Talent, in New York. Worldwide Production Agency: Frank Balkin has joined as Partner and Head of Television.

Cable

AMC Networks: Cliff Bail has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Deputy General Counsel, in New York. AMC Networks: Aileen Brophy was promoted to Senior Vice President, Legal & Business Affairs, in New York. AMC: Tracey Lentz has joined as Vice President, Unscripted Programming. Bounce TV: Elverage Allen has been promoted to Executive Vice President, Advertising Sales, based in New York. Bounce TV: Erick Asenjo has been named Vice President, Ad Sales, in New York. Bounce TV: Winnie Bernier has been named Account Executive, in New York. Bounce TV: Gary Saginario has been promoted to Director, Ad Sales, in New York. Turner Broadcasting: Donna Speciale has been named President, Ad Sales, in New York.  

ICYMI: SSN’S Top Original Stories For 3/24 – 3/28/14

March 28, 2014, 11:24 pm

≫ Next: On The Set For 3/31/14: Paul Feig and Melissa McCarthy Start ‘Spy’ and Michael Fassbender Wraps ‘Macbeth’

≪ Previous: Exec Shuffle For 3/28/14: ABC Entertainment, Atomic Fiction, Exclusive Media, Legendary Entertainment, AMC Networks

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The Up & Up: 10 Child Actors To Know

When a child actor delivers a great performance, it’s all about innate talent. As part of SSN’s ongoing Up & Up series, and in honor of Nickelodeon’s Kid Choice Awards that air Saturday, March 29, we’re bringing you 10 child actors to know in 2014, some of whom may just wind up on your pre-teen’s radar before your own. (SSN)

11 Spinoff Characters that Could Save or Expand the Biggest Film Franchises

We dove into the studios’ back catalogues to see what franchises could be reinterpreted, deconstructed and refreshed by honing in on singular—even marginalized—characters. Studios can spin something out of a pre-existing property with name recognition at relatively low risk. SSN presents a rundown of potential franchise re-starters and the characters that could conceivably anchor them. (SSN)

BioPic Break-Outs: ‘Cesar Chavez’ Joins ’12 Years a Slave’ & ‘King’s Speech’ in Reviving the Formula

SSN’s list of the 10 most interesting biopics of the 21st century – not necessarily a best-of list, it’s rather a look at the more interesting methods of telling a true-life story. There are arguments to be made for plenty of films left off the list, but we have good reasons for this group listed here. (SSN)

The Pros & Cons of Straight-to-Series TV Pickups

Ordering a show straight-to-series is fraught with peril, as NBC found out when they made a 22-episode commitment for The Michael J. Fox Show. It sank like a rock in the ratings and was pulled – with a third of a season they’re obligated to air. Still, there are advantages to a system where a showrunner can work on their show rather than fret about its status. SSN has your pros and cons. (SSN)

Women’s History Month: 10 Upcoming Projects By Female Feature Directors & TV Showrunners

Though the numbers still look bleak, and we have a ways to go, in honor of Women’s History Month SSN’s made a list of 5 female directors of upcoming feature films, and 5 showrunners/producers with projects that we’re looking forward to – from Helen Hunt and Elizabeth Banks to Jenna Bans and Emily Spivey. (SSN)

Hong Kong FILMART: Young, Rich & Overlooked- The Demographic Studios Should be Targeting

Asian audiences and theatrical B.O. are huge and China, alone, is poised to become the No. 1 theatrical market. 2013 figures show China with ticket sales of 3.5 billion and a growth rate of 28% since 2010. With stats like this, Hong Kong FILMART and the demographic it celebrates should be on the top of every studio’s radar. SSN breaks down the stats here. (SSN)

On The Set For 3/31/14: Paul Feig and Melissa McCarthy Start ‘Spy’ and Michael Fassbender Wraps ‘Macbeth’

March 31, 2014, 12:26 pm

≫ Next: TV Development For 4/1/14: David Duchovny Set As Lead of 13-Episode ‘Aquarius’ For NBC

≪ Previous: ICYMI: SSN’S Top Original Stories For 3/24 – 3/28/14

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Starts

Our Kind of Traitor 03/26/2014 Logline: A couple on vacation becomes entangled in the dealings of a Russian mobster wishing to defect and the British Secret Service. Production Companies: Ink Factory, Potboiler Productions, Film4 Director: Susanna White Executive Producers: John LeCarr, Tessa Ross Producers: Stephen Mark Cornwell, Simon Cornwell, Rhodri Thomas, Gail Egan, Andrea Calderwood Cast: Ewan McGregor, Damian Lewis, Naomie Harris, Stellan Skarsgard, Jeremy Northam Screenwriters: Hossein Amini (adaptation) Details:  Based on the novel, “Our Kind of Traitor” by John LeCarr, published by Viking Adult on October 12, 2010. SSN Insight: Simon and Steven Cornwell recently collaborated with Gail Egan on the Sundance premiered film A Most Wanted Man. American Sniper 03/31/2014 Logline:  A Navy SEAL sniper with the highest number of enemy kills tries to balance family and going to war. Studio:  Warner Brothers Pictures. Production Company: Mad Chance Productions, 22^nd & Indiana Director: Clint Eastwood Executive Producers: Jason Dean Hall Producers: Steven Spielberg, Peter Morgan, Andrew Lazar, Bradley Cooper Cast: Bradley Cooper, Sienna miller, Navid Negahban, Eric Close, Luke Grimes Screenwriters: Jason Dean Hall Details: Based on the autobiography American Sniper: The Autobiography of the Most Lethal Sniper in U.S. Military History, written by Chris Kyle, Scott McEwen and Jim DeFelice and published by William Morrow on January 3, 2012. SSN Insight: The Screenplay was included in the 2013 Black List. Spy 03/31/2014 Logline: The Story of a female James Bond-type spy is told. Studio: 20^th Century Fox Production Company: Feigco Entertainment, Chernin Entertainment Director: Paul Feig Producers: Paul Feig, Jessie Henderson, Peter Chernin, Jenno Topping Cast: Melissa McCarthy, Jason Statham, Rose Byrne, Jude Law, Miranda Hart Screenwriters: Paul Feig SSN Insight: This project reunites Paul Feig and Melissa McCarthy who previously worked on both Bridesmaids and The Heat together. Fantastic Four 03/24/2014 Logline:  Four individuals gain superpowers after exposure to cosmic rays during a scientific mission to outer space. Studio: 20^th Century Fox Production Companies: Marvel Studios, MARV Films, Henry Street Productions, Hutch Parker Entertainment Director: Joshua Trank Producers: Matthew Vaughn, Simon Kinberg, Hutch Parker Cast:  Michael B. Jordan, Kate Mara, Miles Teller, Jamie Bell Screenwriters:  Jeremy Slater (current Draft) Details: Based on the comic book "Fantastic Four" created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby and published by Marvel Comics beginning in November 1961. SSN Insight: The project is being conceived as a reboot of the franchise.

Wraps

Macbeth Logline: In 11th century Scotland, a lord takes power of the throne with the help of three witches and his ruthless wife. Production Company: See-Saw Films, Film4 Director:  Justin Kurzel Producers: Iain Canning, Emile Sherman Cast: Michael Fassbender, Marion Cottillard, Elizabeth Debicki Screenwriters: Todd Louiso (adaptation), Jacob Kostoff (adaptation) Details:  Based on the play written by William Shakespeare. SSN Insight: Todd Louiso was previously attached to direct with Philip Seymour Hoffman and Jennifer Connelly starring. Home Logline: A man, fresh out of prison and under provisional house arrest at his recently deceased father's house, struggles with his own psychological delusions. Production Companies: GK Films, Appian Way, Blumhouse Productions Director:  Dennis Iliadis Producers: Steven Schneider, Graham King, Tim Headington, Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Davisson Killoran, Micahel Hampton, Jason Blum Cast: Topher Grace, Patricia Clarkson, Genesis Rodriguez Screenwriter: Adam Alleca SSN Insight: Script was originally optioned by Wes Craven and Marianne Maddalena's Craven/Maddalena Films using its discretionary fund.

TV Development For 4/1/14: David Duchovny Set As Lead of 13-Episode ‘Aquarius’ For NBC

April 1, 2014, 11:49 am

≫ Next: TV Castings For 4/2/14: Michael Chiklis Set For ‘American Horror Story: Freak Show’ For FX

≪ Previous: On The Set For 3/31/14: Paul Feig and Melissa McCarthy Start ‘Spy’ and Michael Fassbender Wraps ‘Macbeth’

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Jackass of all Trades Network: TBS Production Companies: Sunday Night Productions, Aperture Entertainment Executive Producers: John Krasinski, Allyson Seeger, Adam Goldworm Co-Executive Producers: Seth Fisher, Daniel Mackey Writers: Seth Fisher, Daniel Mackey Logline: A devoted stay-at-home dad, after landing his family in dire financial trouble, resorts to earning a living doing odd jobs off of Craigslist… very odd jobs. Random Acts Network: AMC Production Companies: Dark Toy Entertainment, Big Talk Productions Executive Producers: Andrea Abbate, Todd Holland, Karey Burke, Kenton Allen Writer: Andrea Abbate Logline: Katie and Lisa are single girls in their early 30s who work through issues with relationships, family, and growing up. They are also contract killers in Echo Park, who work through issues with drug lords, crooked cops and unpaid debts. Details: Based on the play, Random Acts, written by Andrea Abbate. SSN Insight: Project was previously in development at 20^th Century Fox in 2008. The Buy Side Studio: Sony Pictures Television Production Company: Vendetta Productions Executive Producers: Sheldon Turner, Michael Dinner, Michael De Luca, Jennifer Klein Writer: Sheldon Turner Director: Michael Dinner Logline: An after-hours Wall Street culture where drugs and sex are rampant and billions in trading commissions flow to those who dangle the most enticements. Details: Based on the book The Buy Side: A Wall Street Trader's Tale of Spectacular Excess, written by Turney Duff. SSN Insight: Fox TV studios and CBS are also developing Wall Street-type projects at this time. Grace and Frankie Digital Platform: Netflix Production Company: Skydance Productions Executive Producers: Marta Kauffman, Howard J Morris, Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, David Ellison, Paula Weinstein, Dana Goldberg, Marcy Ross Writers: Marta Kauffman, Howard J Morris Cast: Lily Tomlin, Jane Fonda Logline: Two long-time nemeses are faced with the last chapter of their lives, though not in the way they expected. When their husbands announce they are in love with each other and plan to get married, the women find their lives both turned upside down and, to their dismay, permanently intertwined. Eventually, to their surprise, they find they have each other. Details: Ordered straight to series. Netflix has ordered 13 episodes. Powers Digital Platform: Playstation Studio: Sony Pictures Television Production Company: Circle Of Confusion Executive Producers: Brian Michael Bendis, Michael Avon Oeming, Michael Dinner, Charlie Huston, Remi Aubuchon, David Engel, David Alpert, Lawrence Mattis Writer: Charlie Huston Logline: In a world full of people with superhuman abilities, Detective Christian Walker is in charge of protecting humans and investigating cases involving the God-like men and women, referred to as "powers." Details: Based on the comic book series by Brian Michael Bendis and Michael Avon Oeming. Ordered to series. Playstation has ordered 10 episodes. Untitled John Leguizamo Project Network: AMC Studio: AMC Studios Production Company: Silver Lining Entertainment Executive Producers: John Leguizamo, Salvatore Stabile, Jeff Golenberg, Dam Maydew Writers: John Leguizamo, Salvatore Stabile Director: John Leguizamo Cast: John Leguizamo Logline: Follows a group of men in Queens, The Bronx and upper Manhattan wrestling with careers, relationships, family, ambition, and getting older. Details: Based on the life of John Leguizamo and his friends. No Money Down Network: AMC Studio: AMC Studios Production Company: Working Title Films Executive Producers: Wyatt Cenac, Eric Fellner, Tim Bevan, Liza Chasin Co-Executive Producer: Daniel Pipski Writer: Wyatt Cenac Logline: A guy bottoms out and begins working at an Austin car dealership with a variety of personalities. SSN Insight: Cenac is also developing Yellowbellies, a comedy, for BBC America. Carthage Network: HBO Executive Producers: Kate Robin, Sue Naegle Writer: Kate Robin Logline: An examination of small-town America and how the repercussions of a tragic event — the rape of a high-school girl — can spread past those directly involved, affecting the community and, ultimately, society as a whole. SSN Insight: Robin and Naegle worked together in 2011 developing Robin’s pilot Spring/Fall for HBO, which ultimately did not get picked up. Aquarius Network: NBC Studio: ITV Studios America Production Company: Marty Adelstein Productions Executive Producers: David Duchovny, John McNamara, Marty Adelstein, Melanie Greene Writer: John McNamara Cast: David Duchovny Logline: A Los Angeles police sergeant with a complicated personal life starts tracking a small-time criminal and budding cult leader seeking out vulnerable women to join his "cause." The name of that man is Charles Manson. Details: Ordered straight to series as an event series. Network has ordered 13 episodes. SSN Insight: Duchovny recently wrapped seven seasons on Showtime’s Californication.