ICYMI: SSN’s Top Stories For 6/16 – 6/20/14
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On The Set For 6/23/14: Nancy Meyers’‘The Intern’ Starts, 2012 Black List Entry ‘Viral’ Wraps
Starts
The Runner 06/23/2014 Logline: A Louisiana politician is forced to confront his dysfunctional life after his career is destroyed in a sex scandal following the 2010 BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. Production Company: Paper Street Films, Back Lot Pictures Director: Austin Stark Executive Producers: Ruth Mutch, Noah Millman, Sam Bisbee, Tom Conigliaro Producers: Glenn Williamson,Benji Kohn, Bingo Gubelmann, Chris Papavasiliou, Erika Hampson Cast: Nicolas Cage, Connie Nielsen, Sarah Paulson, Peter Fonda, Bryan Batt Screenwriter: Austin Stark SSN Insight: Feature directorial debut for Austin Stark. The Intern 06/23/2014 Logline: The hard-working founder and owner of a successful clothing company isn't thrilled when she has to pair up with a retired businessman as part of the company's "senior intern" program, but the young woman soon finds in the old-timer a valuable business resource and a very good friend. Studio: Warner Bros. Pictures Production Company: Scott Rudin Productions, Waverly Films Director: Nancy Meyers Producers: Nancy Meyers, Scott Rudin, Eli Bush, Christopher Woodrow, Molly Conners Cast: Robert De Niro, Anne Hathaway, Adam DeVine Screenwriter: Nancy Meyers SSN Insight: Previously set up at Paramount. Dark 06/21/2014 Logline: A model struggles with emotional issues and paranoia during the 2003 New York City blackout. Production Company: Renfield Productions Director: Nick Basile Executive Producer: Joe Dante Producers: Nick Basile, Elias, David Boulton, Kathryn Belli Cast: Whitney Able, Alexandra Breckenridge, Michael Eklund, Brendan Sexton III Screenwriter: Elias SSN Insight: Linda Moran was previously attached to produce through Belladonna Productions.Wraps
Viral 06/16/2014 Logline: A teenage girl filming a school documentary is quarantined with her family in their house when a deadly virus invades and they must find a cure before it's too late. Production Companies: Octane, Busted Shark, Supermarché, Inc. Directors: Henry Joost, Ariel Schulman Executive Producers: Stuart Ford, Matt Jackson, Steve Squillante Producers: Jason Blum, Sherryl Clark, Matt Kaplan, Charles Layton Cast: Travis Tope, Sofia Black-D’Elia, Analeigh Tipton Screenwriter: Barbara Marshall SSN Insight: Screenplay was included on the 2012 Black List.↧
TV Castings For 6/25/14: Jon Hamm, Calista Flockhart, Allison Janney Set For ‘Web Therapy’ Guest Star Roles
Pilots
Naveen Andrews, Daryl Hannah, Brian J. Smith, Tuppence Middleton, Aml Ameen, Freema Agyeman, Tena Desae, Doona Bae, Max Riemelt, Alfonso Herrera, Erendira Ibarra, Jamie Clayton, Miguel Silvestre and Terrence Mann have been cast in Netflix’s Sense8, that follows a group of people around the world who are suddenly linked mentally, and must find a way to survive being hunted by those who see them as a threat to the world's order. Charlotte D’Ambroise and Alex Russell have joined AMC’s Galyntine, centered on a time after a cataclysmic technology-induced disaster has resulted in a new society that has eschewed any form of technology. This catastrophic event leaves small numbers of survivors scattered around the planet and forced to adapt to isolation and unique challenges. Manolo Cardona has been cast in Netflix’s Narcos, that follows the rise and eventual fall of notorious Colombian Drug Lord Pablo Escobar. Martin Sheen will play Jane Fonda’s husband in Netflix’s Grace and Frankie, about two long-time nemeses who 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 b turned upside down and, - to their dismay - permanently intertwined. Eventually, to their surprise, they find they have each other. Gethin Anthony, Grey Damon and Emma Dumont are set for NBC’s Aquarius, that follows a Los Angeles police sergeant with a complicated personal life who starts tracking a small-time criminal and budding cult leader who is seeking out vulnerable women to join his "cause." Craig Roberts joins Amazon’s Red Oaks, about a man who takes a job as an assistant tennis pro at the predominantly-Jewish Red Oaks country club in New Jersey – to the dismay of his father who'd rather his son be an accountant – while he tries to figure out what he wants to do with his life.Current Series
Bianca Lawson is set to recur on season 2 of Lifetime’s Witches of East End. James Marsters will guest star. Zachary Quinto and Natasha Lyonne (Orange is the New Black) will guest star on the next season of HBO’s Girls. Artemis Pebdani will recur on Showtime's Masters of Sex. Niko Pepja has booked a recurring role on MTV’s Awkward. Cheyenne Jackson will guest star on USA’s Royal Pains. Will Forte will lend his voice to Fox’s The Simpsons. Melinda Clarke is scheduled to guest star on TNT's Dallas. Lauren Graham, Dax Shepard, Matthew Perry, Jon Hamm, Allison Janney, Craig Freguson and Calista Flockhart are set to guest star on Season 4 of Showtime’s Web Therapy. Dennis Haskins will guest star on TV Land’s Jennifer Falls.New Series
Harold Perrineau, Tom Everett Scott, DJ Qualls, Michael Welch and Kellita Smith have been cast in Syfy’s Z Nation, about a team of everyday heroes three years after a zombie virus has devastated the country. Christopher Cousins, Margot Bingham and Eve Torres will recur on El Rey’s Matador, about a professional soccer player for the L.A. Riot who comes to be known as much for his antics off the field as his moves on it. J. August Richards and Julianna Guill are set to recur on Bravo’s Girlfriend’s Guide to Divorce, about an author of a self-help book series who's hiding her separation from her husband from the public and starting her life over again as a single woman in her 40s. Michael Vartan will recur on USA’s Satisfaction, centered on a marriage at its midpoint and attempts to answer the question, “What do you do when having it all is not enough?” J. August Richards will also recur on Lifetime’s The Lottery, set in a world destined for extinction as women have stopped having children. When, remarkably, 100 embryos are successfully fertilized, a national lottery is held to decide the surrogates. As conflict, control and mystery over this important scientific breakthrough unfolds, government interests and power begin to dominate one of the most personal and basic elements of humanity — the right to have a family.Limited Series
Carl Lumbly joins A&E’s The Returned playing a Pastor of a local Church.↧
Film Development For 6/26/14: Phillip Noyce To Direct ‘American Pastoral’ Adaptation
NEW ATTACHMENTS
The Sadhu Logline: A soldier travels to India during colonial times and becomes a spiritual warrior. Production Companies: Virgin Comics, Atmosphere Entertainment, Graphic India Producers: Gotham Chopra, Sharad Devarajan, Mark Canton, David Hopwood Writers: Mukunda Michael Dewil (current draft), Deepak Chopra (previous draft) Director: Mukunda Michael Dewil Details: Based on the comic book The Sadhu, written by Gotham Chopra and illustrated by Jeevan Kang ; published by Virgin Comics on July 26, 2006. SSN Insight: The storyline mirrors the life of writer/director Mukunda Michael Dewil as he left his job at Ogilvy advertising in his late 20’s to go live with the Sadhus in India. The Outer Limits Logline: When a strange virus takes over mankind, turning humans into mindless beings, a small band of survivors comes together to find the cure before it's too late. Based the television show "The Outer Limits". Studio/Distributor: MGM Production Companies: Jon Shestack Productions, Mark Victor Productions Producers: Michael Grais, Mark Victor, Jonathan Shestack Writers: Scott Derrickson & C. Robert Cargill (current adaptation), Patrick Melton & Marcus Dunstan (previous adaptation) Details: Project is based on The Outer Limits television series, created by Joseph Stefano, that originally aired on ABC from 9/16/63 to 1/16/65. SSN Insight: Project reunites the Sinister co-writers Scott Derrickson & C. Robert Cargill. American Pastoral Logline: A man who inherits his father's business and marries a beauty queen has his idyllic life turned upside down when his daughter becomes a Vietnam War activist and carries out a terrorist act. Production Companies: Lakeshore Entertainment, Sidney Kimmel Entertainment Producers: Tom Rosenberg, Richard Wright, Gary Lucchesi, Sidney Kimmel, Jim Tauber (Executive Producer), Matt Berenson (Executive Producer) Cast: Ewan McGregor, Mandy Patinkin Writer: John Romano Director: Phillip Noyce Details: Based on the novel American Pastoral, written by Philip Roth and published by Vintage in 1998. SSN Insight: This is the 3rd Philip Roth novel adaptation that Lakeshore is producing , after The Human Stain and Elegy.NEW PROJECTS
We Were Liars Logline: A 17-year-old girl survived an accident at her family’s summer home and has no memory of it. Determined to remember, she uncovers the truth and a shocking revelation about herself. Production Company: Imperative Entertainment Producers: Bradley Thomas, Zak Kadison, Dan Friedkin, Justin Catron (Co-Producer) Writer: E. Lockhart (adaptation) Details: Based on the YA novel We Were Liars, written by E. Lockhart and published by Delacorte Press in 2014. SSN Insight: Project marks the first significant sale for Imperative. International Incident Logline: Five UN delegates go on a road trip to find one of their lost loves. Studio/Distributor: Lionsgate/Summit Production Company: Carousel Productions Producer: Steve Carell Cast: Ken Jeong Writer: David Javerbaum SSN Insight: Project marks the first starring role for Ken Jeong. Van Cliburn Logline: The early career of American pianist Van Cliburn is chronicled. He gained fame in 1958, winning the Tchaikovsky International Piano Competition in Moscow and helping to ease the Cold War. Production Companies: Temple Hill Entertainment, Crystal City Entertainment, Johnson Group Producers: Wyck Godfrey, Marty Bowen, Ari Daniel Pinchot, Robert M. Johnson (Executive Producer) Cast: Ansel Elgort Writer: Andrew Stern (adaptation) Details: Based on the book Van Cliburn, written by Howard Reich and published by T. Nelson Publishers in 1993. SSN Insight: Project reunites Fault in Our Stars actor Ansel Elgort with producers Wyck Godfrey and Marty Bowen.↧
Exec Shuffle For 6/27/14: The District, Disney, BBC Worldwide, Starz, TV Land
Company Launches
C4: Vincent Bruzzese has launched this new entertainment research company with Benaroya Pictures and Miscellaneous Entertainment. Camden Arts and Motion: Baltimore based filmmakers, Dan Schepleng, Martin Whittier, Tommy Duncan and Sean Clark have launched an independent film distribution company, Camden Arts and Motion. The company hopes to lure independent filmmakers using a model that grants them higher percentages of the gross profits. Camden Arts is seeking to release four to five films a year in both theatrical and VOD formats. Critical Mass Studios: Withoutabox co-founders Fred Kramer, Joe Neulight and David Straus have launched this new rights-tracking venture. As part of the launch, Critical Mass has purchased Rightsline Software Inc. for an undisclosed price. ECO Documentaries: ECO Films is launching this new sales arm, which will focus on environmentally causes and human crises. The District: Ruben Fleischer has launched a new production company, The District with producing partner, David Bernad. Vessel: Jason Kilar has launched this new San Francisco-based digital content company, which will plans on building a multimedia service with a strong focus on video. Investors include Amazon.com founder and CEO Jeff Bezos.Studios, Networks, and Media Conglomerates
20th Century Fox Home Entertainment: Keith Feldman has been named President of Worldwide Distribution. Disney: Philip Steuer has joined as the Senior Vice President of Physical Film Production. NBCUniversal: Steven O’Neill has joined as Executive Vice President of Scripted Casting, Cable. The EW Scripps Company: J.B. Kropp has joined as the Vice President of Digital Strategy & Business Development.Film
AMC Theaters: John Calkins has joined as the President of Programming. Cinemark Holdings: Sean Gamble has joined as the Chief Financial Officer. Cinestar Pictures: Daniel Schnider has joined as the Head of Development & Production.Television
BBC Worldwide: Tracy Forsyth has been named Genre Director, Factual Entertainment. Mark Reynolds has been named Genre Director, Factual. Flame Ventures, LLC: Drew Comins has been named Executive Vice President of Production & Development. John Wells Productions: Erin Simon has been named Coordinator, Television. Keshet DCP: Assaf Blecher is joining Keshet DCP as Vice President of Programming & Development. Zig Zag Productions: Peter Wyles has joined as the Head of Development.Agencies, Management Companies, Public Relations, and Law Firms
Abrams Artist Agency: Jay Schachter and Evan Miller have joined as Theatrical Agents. CAA: Tristen Tuckfield has joined as an Agent in the Film and Finance Group. Hawthorne Direct: Jared Lake has joined as Director of Digital Media. ICM Partners: Steve Levine has been named Worldwide Head of Concerts. Mark Siegel has been named co-Head of Music. Innovative Artists: Jason Garber has joined as an Agent, Production, Feature & TV. Resolution: Dean Fluker has been promoted to Agent, Talent.Cable
Cartoon Network/Boomerang: Vishnu Athreya has joined as Vice President of Program Scheduling. Comedy Central: Jim Sharp has been named Executive Vice President of Original Programming & Development. Lifetime: Tia Maggini has been named Vice President, Original Movies. Starz: Ken Segna has been promoted to Vice President, Original Programming. David Weil has joined as Executive Vice President and General Counsel, Business & Legal Affairs. SundanceTV: Jordan Helman has been named Vice President of Scripted Development & Current Programming. TV Land: Dana Tuinier has joined as Vice President of Development & Original Programming.Digital
Twitter: Janice Morris has joined as the Head of Entertainment & Lifestyle News. Gabriel Stricker has been named Head of Media. Adam Bain has been named Head of Business Development. Verance: Mitch Singer has joined as Special Advisor, Industry Affairs. Woven: Ben Blank has joined as the Chief Creative Officer.Music
Republic Records: Wendy Goldstein has been named Executive Vice President and Head of Urban A&R. Sony Music Entertainment: Jennifer Fowler has been named Senior Vice President of Marketing & Revenue Generation.Advertising
AV Squad: Peter McKeon has joined as Director and Creative Director in the Broadcast & Commercial Division. Teresa Antista has joined as Executive Producer, also in the Broadcast & Commercial Division.↧
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USA-Germany Game Nets Huge Ratings, Shia LaBeouf Arrested at Cabaret Performance, SSN’s Rep Moves, Exec Shuffle
USA-Germany Game Nets Huge Ratings
Yesterday's game scored ESPN's third best World Cup ratings ever. (DH)Shia LaBeouf Arrested at Cabaret Performance
The actor was booked and charged with two counts of disorderly conduct and one count of criminal trespassing. (VAR)SSN's Rep Moves For 6/27/14
SSN’s weekly summary of the entertainment industry’s major rep changes. (SSN)SSN's Exec Shuffle For 6/27/14
SSN’s weekly summary of the latest major corporate moves in entertainment and media. (SSN)Sherri Shepherd and Jenny McCarthy To Exit The View
They follow Barbara Walters, Joy Behar and Elisabeth Hasselbeck in a year of big changes for the ABC show. (THR)Pacific Rim 2 Release Date, Animated Series Revealed
The sequel to Guillermo del Toro's 2013 robots vs. aliens tale will hit theatres April 7, 2017. (IGN)Aereo Ruling: Winners and Losers
Hollywood's elated, Aereo's defeated - a look at why the Supreme Court reached the decision it did. (THR)Can Indie Filmmakers Survive the Transformers Age?
Listen: IndieWire's chief film critic Eric Kohn and Thompson on Hollywood's Anne Thompson look at the big picture of art and commerce in the industry. (IW)Snowpiercer: At Last, a Fun Dystopian Sci-Fi Epic
David Edelstein says Bong Joon-ho’s latest film "must be seen to be disbelieved." (VUL)Seth McFarlane will match donations in Reading Rainbow Kickstarter
The Family Guy creator has promised to match up to $1 million in donations made to the campaign during its final five days. (EW)Forbes Celebrity 100 Preview: Why Madonna Didn't Make the Cut
The complete Celebrity 100 list, Forbes annual ranking of the most powerful people in entertainment, will be released on Monday, June 30. (FOR)Frankie Valli and Bob Gaudio's uneasy relationship with Jersey Boys
Valli and his creative partner, writer-keyboardist Gaudio, were very involved in the development of both the show and the movie. And they weren’t quiet or enthused. (LAT)↧
Lorenzo di Bonaventura on Transformers: Age of Extinction, ROI Insight: Which Summer Franchises Get the Most Bang For Their Buck, Spotlight: Snowpiercer Director Bong Joon-Ho
SSN ORIGINALS
Spotlight: Lorenzo di Bonaventura on Transformers Age of Extinction
SSN spoke to di Bonaventura about what he looks for in a director, the unexpected challenges of producing theTransformers franchise and his all-time favorite film. (SSN)ROI Insight: Which Summer Franchises Get the Most Bang For Their Buck
Paramount releases Transformers: Age of Extinction today and SSN breaks down 2014 summer blockbusters. (SSN)Spotlight: Snowpiercer Director Bong Joon-Ho
SSN spoke to the auteur about the challenges of shooting action sequences in tight quarters, his casting choices, and the fact that Tilda Swinton is “beyond gender.” (SSN)Spotlight: The Leftovers Author Tom Perrotta
Perrotta on partnering with Lindeloff, working with HBO, and the changes that were made to The Leftovers as it transitioned from page to screen. (SSN)TODAY'S HEADLINES
Academy Tweaks Several Rules Ahead of 87th Oscars
The changes affect how many actors can be submitted for each movie and how producing teams are defined for best picture consideration. (THR)Jason Bateman to Direct, Star in FBI Wedding Comedy
Bateman will direct and star in the Universal pic, from a script written David Bar Katz. (VAR)Trailer: The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby
Jessica Chastain and James McAvoy will come together and break apart in Ned Benson's film. (IW)The End of the World on Screen
Three apocalypse movies - including Transformers and the movie of the summer - and another that just feels like one. (GTLD)Dave Chappelle Fans on His Legacy and Return to the Stage
Vulture asked fans to discuss his legacy, their impressions, and why his return could be a game-changer. (VUL)↧
ICYMI: SSN’s Top Stories For 6/23 – 6/27
Teen Wolf and the Hit & Miss Movies That Became TV Shows
The MTV show continues the long tradition of teen movies that, for better or worse, have been attempted as TV shows. (SSN)Uzo Aduba & Danielle Brooks Discuss Orange is the New Black Season Two Challenges & Evolution
An interview with two of the standout stars of Netflix's OITNB. (SSN)The 2014 Mid-Summer Movie Report Card
We’re halfway through the summer season, and there’s good news and bad. (SSN)Interview with The Leftovers Author Tom Perrotta
Perrotta talks about partnering with Lindeloff, working with HBO, and the changes that were made to The Leftovers as it transitioned from page to screen. (SSN)Interview with Transformers Producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura
SSN spoke to di Bonaventura about what he looks for in a director, the unexpected challenges of producing theTransformers franchise and his all-time favorite film. (SSN)↧
Transformers: Age of Extinction Wins Big, Hollywood’s 100 Favorite Films List, BET Awards 2014: Winners and Highlights
Michael Bay's Transformers: Age of Extinction Wins Big
The fourth installment of the series took in a mesmerizing $301 million worldwide including $90 million in China. (SSN)Hollywood's 100 Favorite Films List
Which director and decade ruled the rankings? Which movies did women like more than men? heck out the list. (THR)BET Awards 2014: Winners and Highlights
Tons of over-the-top performances; ’90s throwback songs; awkward jokes about people in the audience; an obligatory (recorded) performance by Beyoncé and Jay Z; and a truly wild Nicki Minaj speech. (WP)Aaliyah Biopic On Hold After Zendaya Pulls Out
The project was to be the third in a string of tragic music biopics that Lifetime had lined up. (DH)Supreme Court Declines to Review Case Over Ads on Public TV
Supreme Court refused to review a case in which a San Francisco station challenged its FCC fine for airing messages from a bevy of commercial sponsors. (VAR)Orange Is the New Black's Irresponsible Portrayal of Men
Leaving the men out reinforces old stereotypes that hurt both genders. (ATL)The Latest Clue About Lead Roles In True Detective Season 2
The first script has reportedly come in as casting gears up. (IW)David Duchovny Says Goodbye to Californication
After seven seasons of charting the booze-soaked escapades of writer-cum-lothario Hank Moody, Showtime’s Emmy Award-winning series comes to its fruitful end. (VAR)Why It’s Time to Stop the Anti-Spoiler Paranoia
Being on guard against spoilers means so much else gets missed. (AVC)Glastonbury Music Festival: Dolly Parton Draws Biggest BBC TV Audience
Meanwhile, a Sky News host sets off a Twitter debate after saying the singer lip-synced during her performance at the English outdoor fest. (THR)↧
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On The Set For 6/30/14: Point Break Starts, Kevin James Wraps up Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2
Starts
Operation Avalanche 06/30/2014 Logline: A unique investigation into the CIA’s involvement in the space race. Production Company: XYZ Films Director: Matt Johnson Executive Producer: Nick Spicer Producers: Matthew Miller, Lee Kim Cast: Matt Johnson, Owen Williams, Josh Boles, Sharon Belle Screenwriters: Matt Johnson, Josh Boles SSN Insight: Matt Johnson directed, starred in, and co-wrote the 2013 Slamdance Grand Jury Prize-winning film “The Dirties.” Point Break (Remake) 06/26/2014 Logline: An undercover FBI agent infiltrates a globe-trotting eco-terrorism ring made up of extreme athletes who surf, snowboard, motocross, wingsuit-fly, and rock climb. Production Company: Alcon Entertainment Director: Ericson Core Executive Producers: John McMurrick, Devesh Chetty Producers: Andrew Kosove, Broderick Johnson, John Baldecchi, Chris Taylor, Kurt Wimmer Cast: Luke Bracey, Ray Winstone, Édgar Ramírez, Teresa Palmer Screenwriter: Kurt Wimmer Details: Remake of "Point Break" (USA/1991) directed by Katherine Bigelow and starring Keanu Reeves and Patrick Swayze. SSN Insight: Gerard Butler was previously in discussions to play the role of Bodhi, which is being played by Édgar Ramírez. Sicario 06/30/2014 Logline: A female FBI agent crosses the Mexican border with law enforcement companions in an effort to capture a drug lord. Production Companies: Thunder Road Pictures, Black Label Media, Maple Shade Films Director: Denis Villeneuve Producers: Basil Iwanyk, Erica Lee, Molly Smith, Trent Luckinbill, Thad Luckinbill, Ed McDonnell Cast: Emily Blunt, Benicio Del Toro, Josh Brolin Screenwriter: Taylor Sheridan SSN Insight: Roger Deakins, director of photography on “Sicario,” was also director of photography on director Denis Villeneuve’s 2013 film “Prisoners,” for which Deakins received an Academy Award nomination. In a Valley of Violence 06/24/2014 Logline: In this tale of revenge in the Old West set in the 1890s, a drifter with nothing to lose aims his sights on the thugs who killed his best friend, receiving unlikely assistance from a young woman who runs the dusty town's hotel with her older sister. Production Companies: Blumhouse Productions, Glass Eye Pics Director: Ti West Producers: Jason Blum, Jacob Jaffke, Peter Phok Cast: John Travolta, Ethan Hawke, Karen Gillan, Taissa Farmiga Screenwriter: Ti West SSN Insight: Ethan Hawke also starred in Blumhouse-produced "The Purge" and "Sinister."Wraps
Punk’s Dead 06/27/2014 Logline: The story of Salt Lake City punk rockers Sean, Heroin Bob, Eddie, and John the Mod continues. Production Company: Liberty Spikes Productions LLC Director: James Merendino Producer: Andrea Kreuzhage Cast: Devon Sawa, Michael Goorjian, Adam Pascal, James Duval Screenwriter: James Merendino Details: Sequel to "Slc Punk!" (USA/1998) directed by James Merendino and starring Matthew Lillard, Michael Goorjian, and Annabeth Gish. SSN Insight: Original "Slc Punk!" cast members Devon Sawa, Michael Goorjian, Adam Pascal, and James Duval all returned for "Punk's Dead" to reprise their roles. Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2 06/25/2014 Logline: Paul Blart is attending a security guard expo in Las Vegas with his daughter, where he’s mocked by casino security until he helps them take on a group of dangerous art thieves. Studio: Columbia Pictures Production Companies: Happy Madison Productions, Broken Road Productions, Hey Eddie Productions, Oops Doughnuts Productions Director: Andy Fickman Producers: Todd Garner, Adam Sandler, Kevin James Cast: Kevin James, David Henrie, Raini Rodriguez Screenwriter: Kevin James, Nick Bakay Details: Sequel to "Paul Blart: Mall Cop" (USA/2009) directed by Steve Carr and starring Kevin James. SSN Insight: Filmed at the Wynn in Las Vegas. The filmmakers received $4.3 million in tax credits for filming in Nevada. Criminal Activities 06/27/2014 Logline: Four friends participate in a sketchy investment opportunity, which puts them in danger. Production Companies: Capacity Pictures, Phoenix Rising Motion Pictures Director: Jackie Earle Haley Executive Producer: Mark Benton Johnson Producers: Wayne Rice, Howard Burd, Micah Sparks Cast: John Travolta, Michael Carmen Pitt, Dan Stevens, Jackie Earle Haley Screenwriter: Robert Lowell SSN Insight: Feature film directing debut of Jackie Earle Haley.↧
Inside the Film Release Shift on July 4th Weekend, On the Set For 6/30/14, George Zimmerman Loses Defamation Lawsuit Against NBC
SSN ORIGINALS
Freedom of Choice: Inside the Film Release Shift on July 4th Weekend
Several million people went to see Transformers: Age of Extinction last weekend, but what about those who want other options? (SSN)On the Set For 6/30/14
Point Break 2 starts; Kevin James wraps up Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2. (SSN)TODAY'S HEADLINES
George Zimmerman Loses Defamation Lawsuit Against NBC
A Florida judge rules the Travyon Martin killer can't demonstrate the TV network acted with actual malice in handling his 911 call. (THR)Transformers Controversy Erupts As Paramount Claims $100M Three-Day Gross
Paramount’s purported final gross is allegedly - by everyone’s account in the industry - inaccurate and inflated. (DH)The Leftovers Opens to Lukewarm Viewership
HBO's show premiered to 1.8 million viewers for its initial telecast on Sunday night, according to Nielsen estimates. (VAR)Bryan Singer Teases ‘X-Men: Apocalypse’ On Instagram
The director has teased another glimpse of his next pic in the X-Men franchise. (DH)Denis Leary rock comedy series gets FX series order
Leary is officially returning to FX, with the cable network giving a series order to his comedy project Sex&Drugs&Rock&Roll. (EW)Breaking Down the Multi-Billion-Dollar Seinfeld Economy
An examination of the show’s salaries, mini-economies, and GDP impact. (VUL)7 Highlights From Tilda Swinton's Reddit AMA
Acting Goddess Tilda Swinton took to her comfy arm-chair to participate in a Reddit Ask Me Anything (AMA) session in promotion of her latest film, Snowpiercer. (IW)↧
Community Gets Sixth Season on Yahoo, Major Media Conglomerates Underperforming at Half-Year Mark, Robert Redford to Produce WWII Novel
Community Gets Sixth Season on Yahoo
Sony Pictures Television announced that the cult comedy would be resurrected for a sixth season this fall on Yahoo. (VAR)Major Media Conglomerates Underperforming at Half-Year Mark
At the halfway mark of 2014, the major media-entertainment conglomerates are underperforming the broader markets with two notable exceptions. (THR)Robert Redford to Adapt WWII Novel
Redford plans produce a film based on Peter Shelton’s book Climb to Conquer: The Untold Story of WWII’s 10th Mountain Division Ski Troop. (VAR)Fox Pulls the Plug on Hieroglyph
The network is shutting down the historical-fantasy thriller that was previously given a straight-to-series order for midseason. (EW)Program Announced for 4th Annual Kickstarter Film Festival
The festival will screen a selection of documentaries, animated shorts and experiential films curated by Kickstarter. (IW)SAG-AFTRA Film & TV Talks Extended 24 Hours
After almost two months of talks on a new three-year film and TV contract, negotiators for the actors union and producers extended their current contract and dealmaking attempts. (DH)Mike Sacks's Poking a Dead Frog Explores the Inner Workings of Comedy Writers
The book features interviews with a range of talent, from Mel Brooks, to Amy Poehler to Marc Maron. (VV)Jared Hess Heist Comedy Adds Kate McKinnon and Ken Marino
The awesome cast of Jared Hess's untitled heist comedy - previously titled Loomis Fargo - just got awesome-et. (VUL)Susan Sarandon Redefines a Role
Interview with Sarandon, who plays a wayward grandmother to Melissa McCarthy in the road-trip comedy Tammy. (NYT)26 Productions Qualify for California Tax Incentives
The California Film Commission has vetted and approved 11 features, 13 TV series and two tele pics. (THR)↧
TV Development For 7/01/14: Colin Farrell On Board for HBO’s Stillwater, Starz Engaged on The Girlfriend Experience
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World Cup: USA Elimination Gives ESPN Biggest Cup Audience Ever, CAA Blasts AMC’s “Devastating” Demands In Walking Dead Lawsuit, Apes Storm in to Save Summer Box Office
World Cup: USA Elimination Gives ESPN Biggest Cup Audience Ever
The American team's fourth and final showing in the 2014 FIFA tournament gives more strong overnights to ESPN. (THR)CAA Blasts AMC’s "Devastating" Demands In Walking Dead Lawsuit
The back-and-forth between CAA and AMC over the agency’s lawsuit with former The Walking Dead showrunner Frank Darabont continues. (DH)Apes Storm in to Save Summer Box Office
Dawn of the Planet of the Apes is looking to apply some simian spark to a summer that is flaming out at its midpoint. (VAR)Drunk History’s Second Season Lets the History Shine
The Comedy Central show's second season makes a slight, but smart, adjustment. (AVC)Dane Cook Announces New Comedy Special
The comedian revealed on Jimmy Kimmel Live! that Showtime would be debuting his special in the fall. (THR)Shia LaBeouf Seeking Treatment
Days after he was expelled from a Broadway performance of Cabaret, LaBeouf is receiving voluntary treatment for alcohol abuse. (EW)Christian Bale As Action-Star Moses
Photos from the set of Ridley Scott's Exodus. (IW)
Why Is Melissa McCarthy Doing This to Herself?
Tammy review: "The entire movie seems preemptively safe." (GLD)Hong Kong Box Office Climbs 11% in First Half of 2014
Local films perform well, but are beaten by Hollywood's superheroes. (VAR)Please Tune Out Those TV Studies
There are so many studies, and they have sent confusing, sometimes contradictory messages. (NYT)Marvel to Promote Death of Wolverine With 'Memorial Kits'
Comic book retailers will be able to use the kit, which includes lithographs and postcards, to build interest in the September series. (THR)↧
TV Castings For 7/02/14: Elden Henson in for Netflix’s Daredevil, Jennifer Love Hewitt Joins Criminal Minds
Pilots
Elden Henson has joined Netflix’s Daredevil, as Foggy Nelson.
Joe Caniano, Andrew “Dice” Clay, Ato Essandoh, Robert Funaro, James Jagger, Birgitte Sorenson, and J.C. Mackenzie have been added to HBO’s Untitled Rock ‘n’ Roll Project, 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.
Steven Brand has been cast in AMC’s Galyntine, centered on a time after a cataclysmic technology-induced disaster has resulted in a new society that has eschewed any form of technology. This catastrophic event leaves small numbers of survivors scattered around the planet and forced to adapt to isolation and unique challenges.
Stephanie Sigman has joined the cast of Netflix’s Narcos, that follows the rise and eventual fall of notorious Colombian Drug Lord Pablo Escobar.
Current Series
Tom Riley is set to guest star on BBC America’s Doctor Who.
RuPaul will guest star on ABC Family’s Mystery Girls.
Elizabeth Lail and Scott Michael Foster have landed recurring roles in Season 4 of ABC’s Once Upon a Time.
Chris D’Elia is scheduled to guest star on TV Land’s Jennifer Falls.
Ian Anthony Dale is set to recur on CW’s Hart of Dixie.
Jamie Bamber (Battlestar Galactica)has booked a recurring role on TNT’s Rizzoli & Isles.
Tom Irwin will guest star on ABC Family’s Chasing Life.
Devon Aoki will recur in season 3 of CW’s Arrow.
Jennifer Love Hewitt joins season 10 of CBS’ Criminal Minds.
New Series
Sarah Chalke will recur on Fox’s Backstrom, playing Rain Wilson’s ex-fiancee.
Dan Fogler has replaced Clifton Collins Jr. in ABC’s Secrets & Lies.
James Callis is set for a major recurring role in El Rey’s Matador.
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Spotlight: Ben Falcone Talks Tammy, Behind the Scenes With Earth To Echo, TV Castings for 7/2/14
SSN ORIGINALS
Spotlight: Ben Falcone Talks Tammy
Falcone, 40, spoke to SSN about his experiences wearing many different hats on the $20 million film, as well as keeping it a family affair on-set. (SSN)Behind the Scenes With Earth To Echo
Originally developed and shot for a reported budget of just $5 million, producer Andrew Panay wasn’t afraid to push into new territory with a first time director, first time actors, and 3D printed alien effects. (SSN)TV Castings for 7/2/14
Elden Henson in for Netflix's Daredevil, Jennifer Love Hewitt Joins Criminal Minds. (SSN)TODAY'S HEADLINES
Angelina Jolie's Maleficent Crosses $600 Million Worldwide
The live-action fairy tale is the No. 4 title of the year globally, and the No. 1 non-sequel. (THR)Disney Developing Witch Pic With Tina Fey
The film, currently known as Untitled Witch Project, will be produced by Fey and Cinderella producer Allison Shearmur. (DH)Transformers Earning More in China Than U.S.
So far the film has made $134.5 million in the People’s Republic in its first five days of release compared with $121 million domestically after five days in theaters. (VAR)How To Become a Documentary TV Producer
The Sixties' Mark Herzog Leaps From DVD Extras to Working With Tom Hanks. (IW)People Prefer The Bachelor to The Bachelorette. Reason? It’s Science.
One ABC reality series is dipping in the ratings while the other has stayed pat, and the reasons may surprise you. (TDB)Big in Japan: Frozen As Feminist Rallying Cry
The film's popularity has coincided with public outcry over sexism in Japan, where unlike in America, Disney marketing played up the movie's empowerment message. (ATL)↧
Film Development For 7/03/14: David Stern, David N. Weiss to Write Enchanted 2
NEW ATTACHMENTS
The Athena Project Logline: After a terror attack in Rome kills 23 Americans, a four-member, all-female Delta team is sent to hunt down the arms dealer who supplied the explosives, which leads to a larger conspiracy. Studio/Distributor: Warner Bros. Production Companies: Gerber Pictures, Wasserman Media Group Producers: Bill Gerber, Casey Wasserman Cast: Ronda Rousey Writer: Ashleigh Powell Details: Based on the novel "The Athena Project" written by Brad Thor and published by Atria on November 23, 2010. SSN Insight: Project marks first hired script since she sold her 2012 Black List Somacell, also at Warner Bros. Enchanted 2 Logline: The story of Giselle from fairy tale land continues. Studio/Distributor: Walt Disney Pictures Production Companies: Josephson Entertainment, Right Coast Productions Producers: Barry Josephson, Barry Sonnenfeld, Sunil Perkash Cast: Amy Adams, Patrick Dempsey Writers: David Stern, David N. Weiss (current draft), Jessie Nelson (previous draft), Bill Kelly (previous draft) Director: Anne Fletcher Details: Sequel to "Enchanted" (USA/2007) directed by Kevin Lima and starring Amy Adams and Patrick Dempsey. SSN Insight: This is the writing duo’s 3rd live-action project (Are We There Yet? and Daddy Day Camp) G.I. Joe 3 Logline: Storyline is under wraps. Studios/Distributors: Paramount Pictures, MGM Production Companies: DiBonaventura Pictures, Hasbro, Inc. Producers: Bennet Schneir, Brian Goldner, Lorenzo DiBonaventura Cast: Dwayne Johnson Writers: Jonathan Lemkin (current draft), Evan Daugherty (previous draft) Director: Jon M. Chu Details: Sequel to "G.I. Joe: Retaliation" (USA/2013) starring Dwayne Johnson, Channing Tatum and Bruce Willis and directed by Jon M. Chu. SSN Insight: Project marks Jonathan Lemkin’s 2nd deal with Paramount (The Longest Night)NEW PROJECTS
Dissent Logline: A political drama about international terrorism. Production Company: First Generation Films. Producer: Christina Piovesan Writers: Larysa Kondracki, Ellis Kirwan Director: Larysa Kondracki SSN Insight: Project marks director’s sophomore feature (The Whistleblower). A House In the Sky Logline: The harrowing story of explorer Amanda Lindhout’s abduction by a rebel terrorist group in Mogadishu, Somalia is recounted. Production Company: Annapurna Pictures Producers: Rooney Mara, Megan Ellison Cast: Rooney Mara Writers: Amanda Linhout, Sara Corbett (adaptation) Details: Based on the memoir "A House in the Sky" written by Amanda Lindhout and Sara Corbett and published by Scribner in 2013. SSN Insight: Project marks Rooney Mara’s 2nd film at Annapurna (Her). Untitled (Granite Mountain Firefighters Project) Logline: The true story of the firefighters who died fighting the 2013 Yarnell Hill wildfire in Prescott, Arizona is dramatized. Production Companies: DiBonaventura Pictures, Conde Nast Publications, Inc., Evolution Entertainment Producers: Lorenzo di Bonaventura, Michael J. Menchel, Dawn Ostroff, Jeremy Steckler, Erik Howsam (Executive Producer) Writer: Ken Nolan SSN Insight: Project marks Ken Nolan’s 2nd script for DiBonaventura Pictures (Forge of God)↧
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On The Set For 7/07/14: Owen Wilson & Kristen Wiig Start Relativity Armored Car Project, Mel Gibson Wraps on Blood Father
Starts
Untitled (Relativity / Armored Car Project) 07/07/2014 Logline: The true story of a group of guards at an armored car company in Charlotte, North Carolina, who undertake one of the largest cash heists in American history. Studio: Relativity Media Production Companies: Michaels/Goldwyn, Rough House Pictures Director: Jared Hess Executive Producers: Danny McBride, Jody Hill, Michael Aguilar, Kevin J. Messick, Ryan Kavanaugh, Tucker Tooley, Erin David Producers: John Goldwyn, Lorne Michaels Cast: Owen Wilson, Zach Galifianakis, Kristen Wiig, Jason Sudeikis, Ken Marino Screenwriters: Chris Bowman, Hubbel Palmer (current draft); Danny McBride, Jody Hill (previous draft); Emily Spivey (original draft) Details: Based on the book "Heist! The 17 Million Loomis Fargo Theft" by Jeff Diamant, published September 1, 2002 by John F. Blair. SSN Insight: Previously in development at Paramount.
A Slight Trick of the Mind 07/06/2014 Logline: In 1947, Sherlock Holmes has been retired for many years, but becomes haunted by an unsolved case from 50 years ago. Production Companies: AI Films, Archer Gray Productions, See-Saw Films Director: Bill Condon Executive Producers: Christine Langan, Len Blavatnik, Aviv Giladi, Amy Nauiokas Producers: Anne Carey, Iain Canning, Emile Sherman, Jack Morrissey, Paul Ritchie Cast: Ian McKellen, Laura Linney Screenwriter: Jeffrey Hatcher Details: Based on the novel "A Slight Trick of the Mind" written by Mitch Cullin published by Nan A. Talese; April 19, 2005. SSN Insight: Previously in development at Focus Features.
The Whole Truth 07/07/2014 Logline: An attorney with a reputation for success defends a conflicted and distraught teenager who stands accused of murdering his wealthy father. Production Companies: Atlas Entertainment, Likely Story, PalmStar Entertainment, Merced Media Partners Director: Courtney Hunt Executive Producers: Richard Suckle, Charles Roven, Raj Singh Producers: Anthony Bregman, Kevin Scott Frakes Cast: Keanu Reeves, Renee Zellweger, Gabriel Basso Screenwriter: Nicholas Kazan SSN Insight: Daniel Craig was previously attached. When he withdrew, in April, 2014, Keanu Reeves filled his role and production was moved from the originally planned Boston, Massachusetts, to the new location of New Orleans, Louisiana.
Cool Girls 07/07/2014 Logline: After falling victim to a prank by their high school's alpha female, two friends decide to get their revenge by uniting the outcasts and starting a social revolution. Production Companies: BCDF Pictures, Bousis Films Director: Peter Hutchings Executive Producers: Lauren Munsch, Brian Keady, Victoria Bousis Producers: Brice Dal Farra, Claude Dal Farra Cast: Victoria Justice, Eden Sher, Ashley Rickards, Katie Chang Screenwriters: Dominique Ferrari, Suzanne Wrubel SSN Insight: Screenplay was included on the 2012 Black List.
Wraps
Blood Father 07/03/2014 Logline: An ex-con trying to live a clean and sober life must help his estranged teen daughter, who has witnessed a murder and is now targeted by those who want to silence her. Production Companies: Why Not Productions, Next Films, Worldview Entertainment Director: Jean-Francois Richet Executive Producers: Maria Cestone, Sarah Johnson, Vincent Maraval Producers: Sebastien Lemercier, Chris Briggs, Pascal Caucheteux, Peter Craig, Christopher Woodrow, Molly Conners Cast: Mel Gibson, Erin Moriarty, William H. Macy, Elisabeth Röhm, Ryan Dorsey Screenwriter: Peter Craig Details: Based on the novel "Blood Father" by Peter Craig, published by Hyperion March 2, 2003. SSN Insight: Second English-language feature from French director Jean-Francois Richet, who previously directed the remake of “Assault on Precinct 13” (USA/2005) starring Ethan Hawke and Laurence Fishburne.
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Christopher Nolan Predicts Hope For Digital Future, DeVon Franklin Inks First-Look Producing Deal With Sony, Extant: What the Critics Are Saying
Christopher Nolan Predicts Hope For Digital Future
The filmmaker has softened his stance on the “bleak” digital future months after appealing to theater owners at CinemaCon. (DH)DeVon Franklin Inks First-Look Producing Deal With Sony
Franklin will segue from his post as senior vice president of production for Columbia Picturesinto a first-look production deal with Sony. (VAR)Extant: What the Critics Are Saying
Produced by Steven Spielberg, the CBS event programming summer series stars Halle Berry as an astronaut who goes on a solo space mission and comes home pregnant. (THR)mtvU's Fandom of the Year Nominees
Culled from four categories (Movies, TV Dramas, TV Comedies, and Animation), the 32 nominees will duke it out through online voting on the network’s website. (EW)A Superfan’s Reaction to J.K. Rowling’s New Harry Potter Story
Should we be concerned that Rowling feels compelled to keep poking andprodding her canon instead of letting her perfect creation rest? (GLD)ABC Family Shake-Up: Chief Creative Officer Kate Juergens Exits
The move was announced via a staff memo from ABC Family President Tom Ascheim. (DH)George Clooney Slams Tabloid Story
Clooney has hit out at British tabloid the Daily Mail, alleging the paper has run a false story about his fiancee. (VAR)David Letterman Walks Out on Joan Rivers Interview
Days after Rivers left a CNN interview, the Late Show host did the same to her. (THR)George R.R. Martin Says ‘F* You’ to People Who Say He Won’t Finish the Books
The Game of Thrones author gets feisty in an interview with a Swiss newspaper. (VUL)For Director Scott Derrickson, the Supernatural Comes Naturally
Derrickson has been involved as both director and screenwriter with films exploring the unlikely intersection of true crime procedurals and otherworldly horror. (LAT)↧
TV Castings For 7/9/14: Carol Kane Set For Recurring Role On Fox’s ‘Gotham’
Pilots
Sara Rue has joined TV Land’s Impastor, that follows a low-life on the run from his debts who hides away in a small town by conning them into thinking he’s their newly hired gay pastor. Sam Waterston has joined Netflix’s Grace and Frankie, about two long-time nemeses who 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 turned upside down and - to their dismay - permanently intertwined. Eventually, to their surprise, they find they have each other. Ness Bautista will recur on Netflix’s Sense8, about a group of people around the world are suddenly linked mentally and must find a way to survive being hunted by those who see them as a threat to the world's order.Current Series
Karl Yune and Brandon Routh are scheduled to recur in season 3 of CW’s Arrow. Peter Stormare will guest star. Georgina Haig and Elizabeth Mitchell have been cast on ABC’s Once Upon a Time. Nick Roux will guest star on TV Land’s Jennifer Falls. Jon Stewart (The Daily Show) lends his voice to Disney Channel’s Phineas and Ferb. Taye Diggs will guest star on the upcoming season of CBS’ The Good Wife. Marin Ireland (Homeland) will recur on the second season of Showtime’s Masters Of Sex. Courtney Love is set to recur in the final season of FX’s Sons of Anarchy. Wes Bentley will guest star on FX’sAmerican Horror Story. Sean Hayes has been cast as a regular on season 2 of CBS’The Millers. Ashley Tisdale will guest star on ABC Family’s Young & Hungry.New Series
Carol Kane and Kyle Massey will recur on Fox’s Gotham. Lorraine Toussaint has joined the cast of ABC’s Forever. Laverne Cox will guest star on Bravo’s Girlfriends’ Guide to Divorce. Robbie Amell will heavily recur on CW’s The Flash.↧
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