Broadway box office held steady last week, with most shows either keeping apace with the previous week or showing some increases. In all, the 28 shows grossed $31,189,129, about the same as the week prior even with two fewer shows on the boards.
Total attendance was 248,525 for the week ending July 30, down just 3% from the previous week.
While most of the shows either held roughly steady or reported small jumps, a few took larger strides. Both Grey House and New York, New York played their final weeks after posting early closing notices, and benefitted from last-chancers scooping up tickets. Grey House took in $644,100, a $232,018 increase over the previous week, with attendance at 98% at the Lyceum. NY, NY grossed $914,748, a $228,887 bump over the previous week, with 85% of seats filled at the St. James.
In its opening week at the Hayes, The Cottage grossed $252,244, with about 85% of seats filled.
A heavily comped week at...
Total attendance was 248,525 for the week ending July 30, down just 3% from the previous week.
While most of the shows either held roughly steady or reported small jumps, a few took larger strides. Both Grey House and New York, New York played their final weeks after posting early closing notices, and benefitted from last-chancers scooping up tickets. Grey House took in $644,100, a $232,018 increase over the previous week, with attendance at 98% at the Lyceum. NY, NY grossed $914,748, a $228,887 bump over the previous week, with 85% of seats filled at the St. James.
In its opening week at the Hayes, The Cottage grossed $252,244, with about 85% of seats filled.
A heavily comped week at...
- 8/1/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Actors have now taken to the streets, walking shoulder to shoulder on picket lines with members of the Writers Guild of America (WGA) after failing to secure an equitable contract with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP). We are one week into the SAG-AFTRA strike, and, as actors and writers fight for their future, a union representing Broadway crew members reached a tentative agreement Thursday with the Broadway League and Disney Theatrical Productions, averting their own potential strike. As entertainment unions press pause on upcoming films and...
- 7/22/2023
- by Kalia Richardson
- Rollingstone.com
Police departments in major cities have issued alerts regarding a potential national “Day of Hate” against Jewish people and institutions. Neo-Nazi and white nationalist groups on social media are reportedly calling upon followers to engage in vandalism and spread antisemitic propaganda on Saturday.
An analysis of social media activity by the Counter Extremism Project (Cep) found that the call to action stemmed from accounts associated with the National Socialist Movement, and three regional extremist groups based in Iowa, New York, and California.
Law enforcement in New York, Illinois, and Florida...
An analysis of social media activity by the Counter Extremism Project (Cep) found that the call to action stemmed from accounts associated with the National Socialist Movement, and three regional extremist groups based in Iowa, New York, and California.
Law enforcement in New York, Illinois, and Florida...
- 2/24/2023
- by Nikki McCann Ramirez
- Rollingstone.com
Two days after about a dozen neo-Nazis harrassed ticketholders and ticketbuyers outside the Broadway venue where Parade had begun previews, New York Mayor Eric Adams addressed an audience at the musical last night, saying, “When we fill a theater, we send a message out there that this is not a place where hate lives.”
Adams took to the stage at the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre prior to last night’s performance, introduced by the musical’s director Michael Arden. (See video below.)
“We have the largest Jewish population outside of Tel Aviv,” Adams told the Parade audience, “and when you come out and really cross-pollinate ideas and culture, that’s the beauty and a symbol of New York City.” The mayor said that the antisemitic protest outside the theater Tuesday night “was not the New York spirit we love – this was hatred, this was bigotry.”
On Tuesday night, prior to...
Adams took to the stage at the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre prior to last night’s performance, introduced by the musical’s director Michael Arden. (See video below.)
“We have the largest Jewish population outside of Tel Aviv,” Adams told the Parade audience, “and when you come out and really cross-pollinate ideas and culture, that’s the beauty and a symbol of New York City.” The mayor said that the antisemitic protest outside the theater Tuesday night “was not the New York spirit we love – this was hatred, this was bigotry.”
On Tuesday night, prior to...
- 2/24/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: A new musical based on the award-winning 2012 documentary The Queen of Versailles and the life of beauty queen, socialite and TV personality Jacqueline “Jackie” Siegel is in development, with Kristin Chenoweth attached to star and produce.
The project would reunite Chenoweth with her Wicked composer Stephen Schwartz, who is on board to write the music. An industry reading is set for March 24 in New York City, in preparation for an out of town engagement with additional details to be announced.
Stephen Schwartz (Photo: Nathan Johnson)
Lauren Greenfield’s The Queen of Versailles 2012 documentary depicted the often bizarre lives of Jackie Siegel and David Siegel, owners of Westgate Resorts, as they struggled to build the largest private home in America in Orlando, Florida — a $100 million house inspired by the Palace of Versailles. Their plans – and their lives – were derailed by the Great Recession of 2008.
The stage musical will reunite Schwartz with Broadway superstar Chenoweth (who will play Jackie Siegel), and feature a book by Lindsey Ferrentino and direction by Tony nominee Michael Arden. The project is described as “a new musical exploring the true cost of fame, fortune, and family.”
The Queen of Versailles is produced by Bill Damaschke. Chenoweth will also act as producer through her production banner Diva Worldwide Entertainment.
The project would reunite Chenoweth with her Wicked composer Stephen Schwartz, who is on board to write the music. An industry reading is set for March 24 in New York City, in preparation for an out of town engagement with additional details to be announced.
Stephen Schwartz (Photo: Nathan Johnson)
Lauren Greenfield’s The Queen of Versailles 2012 documentary depicted the often bizarre lives of Jackie Siegel and David Siegel, owners of Westgate Resorts, as they struggled to build the largest private home in America in Orlando, Florida — a $100 million house inspired by the Palace of Versailles. Their plans – and their lives – were derailed by the Great Recession of 2008.
The stage musical will reunite Schwartz with Broadway superstar Chenoweth (who will play Jackie Siegel), and feature a book by Lindsey Ferrentino and direction by Tony nominee Michael Arden. The project is described as “a new musical exploring the true cost of fame, fortune, and family.”
The Queen of Versailles is produced by Bill Damaschke. Chenoweth will also act as producer through her production banner Diva Worldwide Entertainment.
- 2/24/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
The first preview of a Broadway revival of Parade — a musical about the lynching of Jewish American Leo Frank in Georgia in 1915 — was disrupted by antisemitic protesters outside the theater Tuesday night, Feb. 21.
The protest, per the Forward, comprised a few people tied to the neo-Nazi group, the National Socialist Movement. They stood outside the theater holding a banner, trying to hand out materials to people waiting in line, and calling Frank a pedophile. Frank was tried, convicted, and later lynched for the alleged murder of a 13-year-old girl, though...
The protest, per the Forward, comprised a few people tied to the neo-Nazi group, the National Socialist Movement. They stood outside the theater holding a banner, trying to hand out materials to people waiting in line, and calling Frank a pedophile. Frank was tried, convicted, and later lynched for the alleged murder of a 13-year-old girl, though...
- 2/22/2023
- by Jon Blistein
- Rollingstone.com
Actor Ben Platt and the producers of the Broadway show “Parade” have responded to the antisemitic protest that took place outside of Broadway’s Bernard B. Jacobs Theater Tuesday evening, where Platt is starring in a revival of the 1998 musical.
“Parade” tells the true story of the trial, imprisonment, and lynching of a Jewish American man who was erroneously convicted of murdering a teenage girl in 1910s Atlanta. The protestors were from a neo-Nazi group called the National Socialist Movement, according to the Forward, and they promoted antisemitic rhetoric to theatergoers waiting to enter the theater for the show’s first preview performance.
Platt addressed the protests in a video he posted to Instagram Tuesday night.
“I got off stage and was looking at social media and naturally, the news of the fact that there were some protesters at our show had spread a lot and that’s kind...
“Parade” tells the true story of the trial, imprisonment, and lynching of a Jewish American man who was erroneously convicted of murdering a teenage girl in 1910s Atlanta. The protestors were from a neo-Nazi group called the National Socialist Movement, according to the Forward, and they promoted antisemitic rhetoric to theatergoers waiting to enter the theater for the show’s first preview performance.
Platt addressed the protests in a video he posted to Instagram Tuesday night.
“I got off stage and was looking at social media and naturally, the news of the fact that there were some protesters at our show had spread a lot and that’s kind...
- 2/22/2023
- by Liam Mathews
- Gold Derby
Image Source: Getty / Matt Winkelmeyer
Ben Platt stars in the new Broadway revival of "Parade," which held its first preview performance on Feb. 21. The musical is based on the true story of Leo Frank, a Jewish American man living in Georgia in the 1910s who was wrongfully convicted of murder and lynched. His case sparked a wave of antisemitism and led to a revival of the then-defunct KKK. Unfortunately, the musical's first showing on Tuesday night was met with antisemitic protesters, spearheaded by the neo-Nazi group the National Socialist Movement, whom Platt responded to in a moving Instagram video later that evening.
"I got off stage and was looking at social media and naturally, the news of the fact that there were some protesters at our show had spread a lot and that's kind of the stamp on the evening in terms of the public perception of the evening," he said,...
Ben Platt stars in the new Broadway revival of "Parade," which held its first preview performance on Feb. 21. The musical is based on the true story of Leo Frank, a Jewish American man living in Georgia in the 1910s who was wrongfully convicted of murder and lynched. His case sparked a wave of antisemitism and led to a revival of the then-defunct KKK. Unfortunately, the musical's first showing on Tuesday night was met with antisemitic protesters, spearheaded by the neo-Nazi group the National Socialist Movement, whom Platt responded to in a moving Instagram video later that evening.
"I got off stage and was looking at social media and naturally, the news of the fact that there were some protesters at our show had spread a lot and that's kind of the stamp on the evening in terms of the public perception of the evening," he said,...
- 2/22/2023
- by Victoria Edel
- Popsugar.com
Ben Platt is opening up about the antisemitic protests for Broadway’s “Parade.”
Platt stars as real-life factory superintendent Leo Frank, who was wrongfully convicted of the 1913 rape and murder of 13-year-old employee Mary Phagan. In 1915, two men broke into the Georgia state prison and lynched Frank. The events in part led to the founding of the Anti-Defamation League and the rebirth of the Ku Klux Klan. Frank’s life story was adapted into the 1998 musical “Parade,” which now is returning to Broadway in a revival. “Parade” stars Platt and Micaela Diamond and is currently in preview performances before officially opening March 16 at the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre.
However, the first performance was met with antisemitic protests accusing the production of “romanticizing pedophiles,” per a video shared by The Forward editor Jake Wasserman.
“I got offstage and was looking at social media, and naturally the news of the fact that...
Platt stars as real-life factory superintendent Leo Frank, who was wrongfully convicted of the 1913 rape and murder of 13-year-old employee Mary Phagan. In 1915, two men broke into the Georgia state prison and lynched Frank. The events in part led to the founding of the Anti-Defamation League and the rebirth of the Ku Klux Klan. Frank’s life story was adapted into the 1998 musical “Parade,” which now is returning to Broadway in a revival. “Parade” stars Platt and Micaela Diamond and is currently in preview performances before officially opening March 16 at the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre.
However, the first performance was met with antisemitic protests accusing the production of “romanticizing pedophiles,” per a video shared by The Forward editor Jake Wasserman.
“I got offstage and was looking at social media, and naturally the news of the fact that...
- 2/22/2023
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Ben Platt and the team behind the Broadway revival of Parade, which tells the true story of a Jewish factory worker in Georgia who was falsely accused of murdering a teenage girl and later lynched by an antisemitic mob, have responded to the “very ugly and scary” antisemitic protests that took place outside the musical’s first preview performance.
Patrons attending Tuesday night’s production at the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre were met with antisemitic shouts and chants outside the venue, part of a protest led by members of the neo-Nazi group the National Socialist Movement. (The militant hate group was the largest membership-based neo-Nazi effort in the U.S. during the 2000s, according to the Southern Poverty Law Center, and is known for its “violent antisemitic rhetoric.”)
Those demonstrations were initially captured on social media by theatergoers, including The Forward engagement editor Jake Wasserman, who shared video of protesters hurling jeers,...
Patrons attending Tuesday night’s production at the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre were met with antisemitic shouts and chants outside the venue, part of a protest led by members of the neo-Nazi group the National Socialist Movement. (The militant hate group was the largest membership-based neo-Nazi effort in the U.S. during the 2000s, according to the Southern Poverty Law Center, and is known for its “violent antisemitic rhetoric.”)
Those demonstrations were initially captured on social media by theatergoers, including The Forward engagement editor Jake Wasserman, who shared video of protesters hurling jeers,...
- 2/22/2023
- by Abbey White
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Update, with Equity statement: A small but vocally aggressive group of antisemitic protesters outside the Broadway venue housing the first preview of the revival Parade shouted slurs and decades-old accusations against the musical’s main character, Leo Frank.
Parade tells the based-on-fact story of the wrongly accused Frank, a Jewish man tried and eventually lynched in 1913 Georgia for the murder of 13-year-old Mary Phagan.
The protesters outside the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre on W. 45th Street last night resurrected some of the same accusations made against Frank in his day and against Jews yet today. In one cellphone video of the incident, a protester can be heard loudly telling the lines of ticketbuyers, “Even in early 1900s Blacks and whites united to hang the Jew.”
Other shouts reported included “[Leo Frank is] a Jewish pedophile” and “Learn the truth about what you’re going to see tonight. You’re paying $300 to go f*cking worship a pedophile,...
Parade tells the based-on-fact story of the wrongly accused Frank, a Jewish man tried and eventually lynched in 1913 Georgia for the murder of 13-year-old Mary Phagan.
The protesters outside the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre on W. 45th Street last night resurrected some of the same accusations made against Frank in his day and against Jews yet today. In one cellphone video of the incident, a protester can be heard loudly telling the lines of ticketbuyers, “Even in early 1900s Blacks and whites united to hang the Jew.”
Other shouts reported included “[Leo Frank is] a Jewish pedophile” and “Learn the truth about what you’re going to see tonight. You’re paying $300 to go f*cking worship a pedophile,...
- 2/22/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Polish production company Gigant Films will remake Titas Laucius’ feature debut, “Parade.” It will start shooting this year under the working title “Divorcees” (“Rozwodnicy”)
The Lithuanian film, inspired by Laucius’ own family, world premiered at Tallinn Black Night Film Festival in November. It sees Miglė, whose ex-husband, after years of living apart, wants to remarry in church. In order to do so, the long-divorced couple needs to get an annulment. Suddenly, they are faced with a church tribunal investigating their past. And their own memories.
“When I first heard about this project, and then watched the film, I saw the potential for feel-good comedy,” said producer Radosław Grabik.
“Poland [as a predominantly Catholic country] feels like a great fit for this story. We won’t be demonizing the clergy, but we want to gently mock the hypocrisy of everyone involved. Including all these people who claim to care about church weddings, even though they aren’t even religious,...
The Lithuanian film, inspired by Laucius’ own family, world premiered at Tallinn Black Night Film Festival in November. It sees Miglė, whose ex-husband, after years of living apart, wants to remarry in church. In order to do so, the long-divorced couple needs to get an annulment. Suddenly, they are faced with a church tribunal investigating their past. And their own memories.
“When I first heard about this project, and then watched the film, I saw the potential for feel-good comedy,” said producer Radosław Grabik.
“Poland [as a predominantly Catholic country] feels like a great fit for this story. We won’t be demonizing the clergy, but we want to gently mock the hypocrisy of everyone involved. Including all these people who claim to care about church weddings, even though they aren’t even religious,...
- 2/19/2023
- by Marta Balaga
- Variety Film + TV
When the European Film Market kicks off in Berlin on Feb. 16, the three Baltic nations of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania will share the stage as the EFM’s joint Countries in Focus. The showcase, which is supported by the Estonian Film Institute, the National Film Center of Latvia and the Lithuanian Film Center, will offer a range of events within the framework of the EFM, along with a selection of market premieres and screenings of Baltic films already making waves on the festival circuit. Twelve up-and-coming Baltic producers will also be presented to the international industry during a happy hour on Feb. 17 in the Gropius Bas.
Here’s a selection of Baltic buzz titles that the region’s top producers will be taking to Berlin:
Last Sentinel
Director: Tanel Toom
Producers: Ben Pullen, Ivo Felt, Jörg Bundschuh, Pippa Cross, Matthew James Wilkinson
Kate Bosworth stars in this sci-fi thriller from...
Here’s a selection of Baltic buzz titles that the region’s top producers will be taking to Berlin:
Last Sentinel
Director: Tanel Toom
Producers: Ben Pullen, Ivo Felt, Jörg Bundschuh, Pippa Cross, Matthew James Wilkinson
Kate Bosworth stars in this sci-fi thriller from...
- 2/17/2023
- by Christopher Vourlias
- Variety Film + TV
The action adventure marks the latest from the director of Berlinale award-winners ‘Parade’ and ‘River’s Edge’.
Japan’s Isao Yukisada is adapting award-winning novel Revolver Lily as an action-adventure feature, which Toei Company is unveiling to buyers at the European Film Market.
Isao is best known internationally for titles including Go, A Day On The Planet, Parade and River’s Edge, all of which played in the Panorama strand of the Berlinale. Parade and River’s Edge both won the Fipresci prize at the festival in 2009 and 2018 respectively.
His latest takes place in 1924 and centres on Yuri, who killed 57 people...
Japan’s Isao Yukisada is adapting award-winning novel Revolver Lily as an action-adventure feature, which Toei Company is unveiling to buyers at the European Film Market.
Isao is best known internationally for titles including Go, A Day On The Planet, Parade and River’s Edge, all of which played in the Panorama strand of the Berlinale. Parade and River’s Edge both won the Fipresci prize at the festival in 2009 and 2018 respectively.
His latest takes place in 1924 and centres on Yuri, who killed 57 people...
- 2/16/2023
- by Michael Rosser
- ScreenDaily
The Survivor Season 44 premiere is just around the corner, and every new thing we learn about the upcoming competition makes us more excited for its arrival. Reactions to the last three seasons of the CBS reality series have been mixed, but we have a feeling that the Survivor Season 44 cast could get every fan on board with the “new era.” Read on for everything you need to prepare for the 44th installment.
‘Survivor’ Season 44 cast | Photo: Robert Voets/CBS When does ‘Survivor’ Season 44 start? And how can fans watch the premiere?
The Survivor Season 44 premiere is only a couple of weeks away — CBS is airing the first episode on Wednesday, March 1, at 8 p.m. Et.
Similar to the numerous season premieres that came before it, Survivor Season 44 Episode 1 will be two hours long.
Fans can watch it live on CBS or stream it the next day, March 2, on Paramount+.
Are you ready to be Daring?...
‘Survivor’ Season 44 cast | Photo: Robert Voets/CBS When does ‘Survivor’ Season 44 start? And how can fans watch the premiere?
The Survivor Season 44 premiere is only a couple of weeks away — CBS is airing the first episode on Wednesday, March 1, at 8 p.m. Et.
Similar to the numerous season premieres that came before it, Survivor Season 44 Episode 1 will be two hours long.
Fans can watch it live on CBS or stream it the next day, March 2, on Paramount+.
Are you ready to be Daring?...
- 2/16/2023
- by Sarah Little
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Channing Tatum is no stranger to locking lips with some of the most famous actresses in Hollywood, from Amanda Seyfried to Mila Kunis to Sandra Bullock. His most recent co-star did make him a little nervous, though.
So, why was Tatum feeling awkward when it came time for romance scenes with Salma Hayek in the upcoming Magic Mike’s Last Dance?
Channing Tatum’s mega-popular ‘Magic Mike’ movies Magic Mike Xxl stars Channing Tatum, Greg Jacobs, Joe Manganiello, and Reid Carolin | Lisa Maree Williams/Getty Images
Tatum began starring in the Magic Mike movies in 2012. The first movie was loosely based on the actor’s life. He worked as a stripper at a Tampa nightclub as a teenager. Then, he moved to Miami, where a model talent scout discovered him.
Magic Mike grossed over 100 million worldwide and spawned two sequels: 2015’s Magic Mike Xxl and this year’s Magic Mike’s Last Dance,...
So, why was Tatum feeling awkward when it came time for romance scenes with Salma Hayek in the upcoming Magic Mike’s Last Dance?
Channing Tatum’s mega-popular ‘Magic Mike’ movies Magic Mike Xxl stars Channing Tatum, Greg Jacobs, Joe Manganiello, and Reid Carolin | Lisa Maree Williams/Getty Images
Tatum began starring in the Magic Mike movies in 2012. The first movie was loosely based on the actor’s life. He worked as a stripper at a Tampa nightclub as a teenager. Then, he moved to Miami, where a model talent scout discovered him.
Magic Mike grossed over 100 million worldwide and spawned two sequels: 2015’s Magic Mike Xxl and this year’s Magic Mike’s Last Dance,...
- 1/30/2023
- by India McCarty
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The new Broadway production of Parade starring Ben Platt and Micaela Diamond has completed casting, with rehearsals beginning today for the February 21 preview.
Platt and Diamond will lead a 33-person cast that features Alex Joseph Grayson as ‘Jim Conley,’ Sean Allan Krill as ‘Governor Slaton,’ Howard McGillin as ‘Old Soldier/Judge Roan,’ and Paul Alexander Nolan as ‘Hugh Dorsey.’ They will be joined by Jay Armstrong Johnson as ‘Britt Craig,’ Kelli Barrett as ‘Mrs. Phagan,’ Courtnee Carter as ‘Angela,’ Eddie Cooper as ‘Newt Lee,’ Erin Rose Doyle as ‘Mary Phagan,’ Manoel Felciano as ‘Tom Watson,’ Danielle Lee Greaves as ‘Minnie McKnight,’ Douglas Lyons as ‘Riley,’ and Jake Pedersen as ‘Frankie Epps.’
The cast is completed by Florrie Bagel as ‘Nurse,’ Stacie Bono as ‘Sally Slaton,’ Max Chernin as ‘Mr. Turner,’ Emily Rose DeMartino as ‘Essie & Others,’ Christopher Gurr as ‘Luther Rosser/Mr. Peavy,’ Beth Kirkpatrick as ‘Nina Formby,’ Ashlyn Maddox as ‘Monteen & Others,...
Platt and Diamond will lead a 33-person cast that features Alex Joseph Grayson as ‘Jim Conley,’ Sean Allan Krill as ‘Governor Slaton,’ Howard McGillin as ‘Old Soldier/Judge Roan,’ and Paul Alexander Nolan as ‘Hugh Dorsey.’ They will be joined by Jay Armstrong Johnson as ‘Britt Craig,’ Kelli Barrett as ‘Mrs. Phagan,’ Courtnee Carter as ‘Angela,’ Eddie Cooper as ‘Newt Lee,’ Erin Rose Doyle as ‘Mary Phagan,’ Manoel Felciano as ‘Tom Watson,’ Danielle Lee Greaves as ‘Minnie McKnight,’ Douglas Lyons as ‘Riley,’ and Jake Pedersen as ‘Frankie Epps.’
The cast is completed by Florrie Bagel as ‘Nurse,’ Stacie Bono as ‘Sally Slaton,’ Max Chernin as ‘Mr. Turner,’ Emily Rose DeMartino as ‘Essie & Others,’ Christopher Gurr as ‘Luther Rosser/Mr. Peavy,’ Beth Kirkpatrick as ‘Nina Formby,’ Ashlyn Maddox as ‘Monteen & Others,...
- 1/30/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
We’re now about halfway through the 2022-23 Broadway season, and there are currently nine productions of plays set to open this spring. Could we be seeing any of them contend at this year’s Tony Awards? Below is a plot overview of each play as well as the awards history of its author, cast, and creative teams, plus the opening and (where applicable) closing dates.
“Pictures From Home” (opens February 9; closes April 30)
This stage adaptation of Larry Sultan’s 1992 photo memoir is a comic and dramatic portrait of a mother and father, and the son who photographed their lives. As Larry tries to capture his parents, their reality explodes from the frame in an exploration of the power of art and how much it reveals.
Adapted for the stage by WGA nominee Sharr White, the production stars Tony winner Danny Burstein, three-time Tony winner Nathan Lane, and four-time Tony nominee Zoë Wanamaker.
“Pictures From Home” (opens February 9; closes April 30)
This stage adaptation of Larry Sultan’s 1992 photo memoir is a comic and dramatic portrait of a mother and father, and the son who photographed their lives. As Larry tries to capture his parents, their reality explodes from the frame in an exploration of the power of art and how much it reveals.
Adapted for the stage by WGA nominee Sharr White, the production stars Tony winner Danny Burstein, three-time Tony winner Nathan Lane, and four-time Tony nominee Zoë Wanamaker.
- 1/25/2023
- by Jeffrey Kare
- Gold Derby
A new Broadway season has started, and there are currently seven productions of musicals set to open this fall. Could we be seeing any of them contend at next year’s Tony Awards? Below is an overview of the plot of each musical as well as the awards history of its author, cast, creative team, and the opening and (where applicable) closing dates.
“Almost Famous” (previews begin October 3; opens November 3)
In this stage musical adaptation of Cameron Crowe’s 2000 Academy Award-winning film, William Miller is an idealistic 15-year-old aspiring music journalist. When Rolling Stone magazine hires him to go on the road with an up-and-coming band, he is thrust into the rock-and-roll circus, where his love of music, his longing for friendship, and his integrity as a writer collide.
This musical has a book written by Crowe, who also co-wrote the score with Tony- and Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Tom Kitt.
“Almost Famous” (previews begin October 3; opens November 3)
In this stage musical adaptation of Cameron Crowe’s 2000 Academy Award-winning film, William Miller is an idealistic 15-year-old aspiring music journalist. When Rolling Stone magazine hires him to go on the road with an up-and-coming band, he is thrust into the rock-and-roll circus, where his love of music, his longing for friendship, and his integrity as a writer collide.
This musical has a book written by Crowe, who also co-wrote the score with Tony- and Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Tom Kitt.
- 9/14/2022
- by Jeffrey Kare
- Gold Derby
NBC revealed its fall 2022-2023 lineup Monday, which includes “La Brea” occupying the current Tuesdays at 9 p.m. home of “This Is Us,” as well as the “Quantum Leap” reboot series taking the coveted post-“The Voice” launchpad. On a season that includes new coach Camila Cabello, that’s an even nicer slot to occupy as the broadcast network’s splashy new drama.
Mondays in the fall will begin with the two-hour episode of “The Voice” at 8 p.m., followed by “Quantum Leap” as its lead-out at 10.
On Tuesdays, “The Voice” will kickoff the night with its one-hour edition at 8 p.m., leading into “La Brea” at 9. With the end of “This Is Us” just two episodes away, NBC had to hand the slot over to another drama for the fall and made the logical choice with breakout hit “La Brea,” which did well in the spot last fall when...
Mondays in the fall will begin with the two-hour episode of “The Voice” at 8 p.m., followed by “Quantum Leap” as its lead-out at 10.
On Tuesdays, “The Voice” will kickoff the night with its one-hour edition at 8 p.m., leading into “La Brea” at 9. With the end of “This Is Us” just two episodes away, NBC had to hand the slot over to another drama for the fall and made the logical choice with breakout hit “La Brea,” which did well in the spot last fall when...
- 5/16/2022
- by Jennifer Maas
- Variety Film + TV
Out of all the nominees spread across the 26 categories at the 2022 Tony Awards, a number of them stand out as particularly noteworthy. Check out the complete list of nominees here.
SEEJennifer Hudson may Egot at the Tonys: ‘Strange Loop’ producer already has an Oscar, Emmy, and 2 Grammys
1. The following productions nominated this year were originally scheduled to open in the 2019-20 Broadway season before performances shut down due to Covid-19: “American Buffalo,” “Caroline, or Change,” “Company,” “Diana,” “Flying Over Sunset,” “Hangmen,” “How I Learned to Drive,” “The Lehman Trilogy,” “The Minutes,” “Mrs. Doubtfire,” “Plaza Suite,” “Six,” and “Take Me Out.” While “Girl From the North County” did actually open just the week before Broadway shutdown, it was too late for that show to be eligible for the 74th Tony Awards as not enough voters were even able to see it then.
2. The following shows that only received one Tony nomination are: “Diana,...
SEEJennifer Hudson may Egot at the Tonys: ‘Strange Loop’ producer already has an Oscar, Emmy, and 2 Grammys
1. The following productions nominated this year were originally scheduled to open in the 2019-20 Broadway season before performances shut down due to Covid-19: “American Buffalo,” “Caroline, or Change,” “Company,” “Diana,” “Flying Over Sunset,” “Hangmen,” “How I Learned to Drive,” “The Lehman Trilogy,” “The Minutes,” “Mrs. Doubtfire,” “Plaza Suite,” “Six,” and “Take Me Out.” While “Girl From the North County” did actually open just the week before Broadway shutdown, it was too late for that show to be eligible for the 74th Tony Awards as not enough voters were even able to see it then.
2. The following shows that only received one Tony nomination are: “Diana,...
- 5/10/2022
- by Jeffrey Kare
- Gold Derby
Considered lost for nearly five decades until their rediscovery in 2019, filmmaker Ronald Chase's Cathedral (1971) and Parade (1972) are two of the earliest films about gay lives made after the Stonewall riots of June 28, 1969. The former is an ethereal dedication to gay sexuality, and the latter a talking-head documentary short about San Francisco's first Gay Pride Parade to be organized with permits. Viewed together, the two films form a holistic portrait of the sensuality, spirituality, and solidarity central to the gay rights movement in the aftermath of the Stonewall riots. Filmed in the St. Chapel in Paris, Chase's Cathedral "[refuses] to see touch, affection, and sensuality only in pornographic terms." The film's display of delicate shadows cast across white sheets invokes a strong sense of spiritual consecration tied to the condemned act. Beneath the superimposed veils of light through church windows, Chase films heavenly bodies entangled with one another in their most intimate form.
- 6/17/2021
- MUBI
That was a whole lot of wheel-spinning without much narrative traction.
So soon after she was taken into FBI custody, Liz found herself on the run again on The Blacklist Season 8 Episode 19.
How hard was it just to drive to the task force office after arresting Liz? Why not just stick her in Red's old glass enclosure?
Why did such a production have to be made out of it? I must have missed something.
I suppose because, without a target for Townsend's men to ambush, there would have been no episode.
Instead, we got more of Red keeping the Task Force in the dark and the Task Force not trusting Red. Cause, meet effect.
And poor Ressler once again got caught in the middle. That's what, twice this year that Donald has been wounded by or because of Liz.
That's not counting the multiple times that she's used his feelings for her own benefit,...
So soon after she was taken into FBI custody, Liz found herself on the run again on The Blacklist Season 8 Episode 19.
How hard was it just to drive to the task force office after arresting Liz? Why not just stick her in Red's old glass enclosure?
Why did such a production have to be made out of it? I must have missed something.
I suppose because, without a target for Townsend's men to ambush, there would have been no episode.
Instead, we got more of Red keeping the Task Force in the dark and the Task Force not trusting Red. Cause, meet effect.
And poor Ressler once again got caught in the middle. That's what, twice this year that Donald has been wounded by or because of Liz.
That's not counting the multiple times that she's used his feelings for her own benefit,...
- 5/29/2021
- by Dale McGarrigle
- TVfanatic
Film will open in Japanese cinemas and stream globally on Amazon Prime Video from July 17.
Isao Yukisada’s Theater will be released simultaneously in Japanese cinemas and on the Amazon Prime Video streaming platform on July 17, marking the first time that Amazon has released a film day-and-date with theatres in Japan.
Amazon is making the film available in 200 countries and territories worldwide. Starring Kento Yamazaki and Mayu Matsuoka, the film is a live-action adaptation of comedian Naoki Matayoshi’s second novel Gekijo. Matayoshi won the Akutagawa Prize in 2015 for his first novel Hibana, which was adapted into a series by Netflix.
Isao Yukisada’s Theater will be released simultaneously in Japanese cinemas and on the Amazon Prime Video streaming platform on July 17, marking the first time that Amazon has released a film day-and-date with theatres in Japan.
Amazon is making the film available in 200 countries and territories worldwide. Starring Kento Yamazaki and Mayu Matsuoka, the film is a live-action adaptation of comedian Naoki Matayoshi’s second novel Gekijo. Matayoshi won the Akutagawa Prize in 2015 for his first novel Hibana, which was adapted into a series by Netflix.
- 6/25/2020
- ScreenDaily
Scarlett Johansson and Colin Jost will just have to agree to disagree on this one. The Hollywood pair are soon-to-be husband and wife, but when it comes to baseball, there isn't exactly harmony between these two. As the Oscar nominee revealed to Parade, her love of the New York Yankees is not shared by the SNL comedian. Johansson was particularly fond of famed former shortstop Derek Jeter. "I loved him," the actress told the magazine. "I used to keep his rookie card in my wallet!" Meanwhile, her fiancé roots for the New York Mets—just like the rest of her own family. "It's a sore subject," she told the magazine of her and...
- 4/24/2020
- E! Online
There are few more transcendent in pop culture than the late, great Prince. Not only was he a master performer, songwriter, singer and guitar player, he was also a massive music fan who lent his genius to all genres, including country. He often enjoyed working under a pseudonym: Prince had many in his too-short life, from “Jamie Starr” to “Camille” to “Alexander Nevermind” and, of course, the infamous symbol once entirely substituted for his name.
It was as “Joey Coco” where Prince collided with his country side, writing the song...
It was as “Joey Coco” where Prince collided with his country side, writing the song...
- 3/21/2020
- by Marissa R. Moss
- Rollingstone.com
In this episode, Ben and Daniel talk to three-time Tony nominee Carolee Carmello about the soundtrack to the 1973 film adaptation of 'Godspell.' They also discuss Julie Andrews, 'The Sound of Music,' Lesley Ann Warren, Marni Nixon, 'West Side Story,' 'Evita,' Mary Testa, 'Oliver,' 'Gypsy,' Barbra Streisand, Barbara Cook, Comden and Green, 'Falsettos,' 'Kiss Me Kate,' Marin Mazzie, and 'Parade.' They talk about Carolee's secret, closeted soprano past and the fact that she has never taken a voice lesson. Carolee is currently starring as America's coast-to-coast Dolly Levi in the national tour of 'Hello, Dolly'...
- 12/23/2019
- by Ben Rimalower
- BroadwayWorld.com
Downton Abbey fans only have to wait a few more weeks to find out what the Crawley family has been up to since the television series concluded stateside in 2016.
Ahead of the film version’s September 20 release, some of the team behind the Focus Features drama sat down for interviews for this weekend’s edition of Parade magazine. One of the topics that came up for discussion was the challenge of bringing the expansive cast back together.
“The biggest testament to the film is that everyone turned up to play,” said Hugh Bonneville, who plays Robert Crawley, Earl of Grantham. “We had some hurdles getting everyone in the same place at the same time, but there was a will to do it.”
Executive producer Gareth Neame added that Maggie Smith, known to fans as Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham, was the last original cast member from the Emmy-winning...
Ahead of the film version’s September 20 release, some of the team behind the Focus Features drama sat down for interviews for this weekend’s edition of Parade magazine. One of the topics that came up for discussion was the challenge of bringing the expansive cast back together.
“The biggest testament to the film is that everyone turned up to play,” said Hugh Bonneville, who plays Robert Crawley, Earl of Grantham. “We had some hurdles getting everyone in the same place at the same time, but there was a will to do it.”
Executive producer Gareth Neame added that Maggie Smith, known to fans as Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham, was the last original cast member from the Emmy-winning...
- 8/17/2019
- by Anita Bennett
- Deadline Film + TV
There's a new lifeguard at the community pool in Hawkins named Heather, played by Francesca Reale, and besides working with the sketchy Billy, she's at the center of the dark mystery that plagues the town in the third installation of Stranger Things. Along with Mayor Larry Kline (Cary Elwes) and Bruce (Jake Busey), she's one of the latest additions to the delightfully creepy series. While she might be a new kid on the block, the actress behind Heather is no stranger to the Netflix universe.
Born and raised in La, the 24-year-old NYU graduate first appeared on YouTuber Colleen Ballinger's Netflix series Haters Back Off from 2016 to 2017, playing Miranda Sings' even-keeled sister Emily in 16 episodes. Prior to this breakout role, Reale appeared in a number of shorts. She also played a minor part on Blue Bloods as the victim Gabriella Moretti in the crime procedural's sixth season "Down the Rabbit Hole.
Born and raised in La, the 24-year-old NYU graduate first appeared on YouTuber Colleen Ballinger's Netflix series Haters Back Off from 2016 to 2017, playing Miranda Sings' even-keeled sister Emily in 16 episodes. Prior to this breakout role, Reale appeared in a number of shorts. She also played a minor part on Blue Bloods as the victim Gabriella Moretti in the crime procedural's sixth season "Down the Rabbit Hole.
- 7/21/2019
- by Stacey Nguyen
- Popsugar.com
As if headlining another John Wick, joining a treasured franchise like Toy Story, and making waves in a hilarious cameo appearance in Netflix’s Always Be My Maybe wasn’t enough for one summer, Keanu Reeves‘ character’s earning just as many accolades. His demeanor with female fans has made him a standout icon in the wake of the #MeToo movement, and all of this has even combined to create, yes, another online petition (which I even signed).
But there’s something special about the Keanusance. And there’s even an argument to be made that this summer’s the standout in Reeves’ long-and-winding career, as media-consumers flock towards his kindness and generosity – two characteristics absent from a lot of today’s celebrities, political and otherwise.
While The Matrix star may not be exactly sure why the internet’s crushing over him (which many interpret as another display of humility...
But there’s something special about the Keanusance. And there’s even an argument to be made that this summer’s the standout in Reeves’ long-and-winding career, as media-consumers flock towards his kindness and generosity – two characteristics absent from a lot of today’s celebrities, political and otherwise.
While The Matrix star may not be exactly sure why the internet’s crushing over him (which many interpret as another display of humility...
- 7/9/2019
- by Luke Parker
- We Got This Covered
It’s hard to explain Tom O’Neill’s new book Chaos: Charles Manson, the CIA and the Secret History of the Sixties without sounding like a conspiracy theorist down a rabbit hole — you try telling your friends that a reporter spent two decades researching the links between one of America’s most notorious criminals and the government’s super-secretive mind-control program Mkultra without getting a few snickers.
Of course, imagine being the journalist writing it, and you find yourself in an even more uncomfortable position; that’s exactly why...
Of course, imagine being the journalist writing it, and you find yourself in an even more uncomfortable position; that’s exactly why...
- 7/9/2019
- by Elisabeth Garber-Paul
- Rollingstone.com
Ever since Jason Reitman’s Ghostbusters 3 was first announced back in January, the number one question on fans’ minds has been who among the original cast is going to return.
So far, we’ve yet to receive any official answers on the matter, though we’ve plenty of reason to believe that several stars of the 1984 Ghostbusters have at least been in talks about Jason Reitman’s film. Ernie Hudson in particular seems to have been kept in the loop in recent months, though in a recent interview with Syracuse.com, the Winston Zeddemore actor clarified that he still hasn’t signed on for the upcoming sequel.
“I know they’re doing [Ghostbusters 2020],” Hudson said. “I know Jason Reitman is going to direct it. He’s an amazing filmmaker. I’d love to be a part of it. I don’t have a deal yet, and I hope it works out.
So far, we’ve yet to receive any official answers on the matter, though we’ve plenty of reason to believe that several stars of the 1984 Ghostbusters have at least been in talks about Jason Reitman’s film. Ernie Hudson in particular seems to have been kept in the loop in recent months, though in a recent interview with Syracuse.com, the Winston Zeddemore actor clarified that he still hasn’t signed on for the upcoming sequel.
“I know they’re doing [Ghostbusters 2020],” Hudson said. “I know Jason Reitman is going to direct it. He’s an amazing filmmaker. I’d love to be a part of it. I don’t have a deal yet, and I hope it works out.
- 7/6/2019
- by David Pountain
- We Got This Covered
Paul Rudd is getting the call.
The Ant-Man actor, 50, will star as a teacher in Sony’s latest reboot of the Ghostbusters franchise, which will revert back to the original timeline set by the first two movies in the ’80s, according to Variety.
The outlet also reports that Carrie Coon, Stranger Things star Finn Wolfhard and McKenna Grace are in talks to join the project.
Jason Reitman, 41, is taking over on directing duties from his dad Ivan Reitman, who directed the first two blockbuster hits in 1984 and 1989.
“I’ve been wanting to work with Paul Rudd since my short film...
The Ant-Man actor, 50, will star as a teacher in Sony’s latest reboot of the Ghostbusters franchise, which will revert back to the original timeline set by the first two movies in the ’80s, according to Variety.
The outlet also reports that Carrie Coon, Stranger Things star Finn Wolfhard and McKenna Grace are in talks to join the project.
Jason Reitman, 41, is taking over on directing duties from his dad Ivan Reitman, who directed the first two blockbuster hits in 1984 and 1989.
“I’ve been wanting to work with Paul Rudd since my short film...
- 6/27/2019
- by Ale Russian
- PEOPLE.com
The latest cast member for the new Ghostbusters film has been revealed, as Paul Rudd has answered the call and joined the anticipated movie from director Jason Reitman.
In a new video (see below) shared on the official Ghostbusters Twitter page, with his trademark brand of quirky humor, Paul Rudd announced that he has joined the cast of the new Ghostbusters, fittingly revealing the news in front of the Firehouse, Hook & Ladder Company 8 building in New York City.
According to Variety, which refers to the new Ghostbusters movie as Ghostbusters 2020, Rudd will play a teacher in the film, joining a cast that is also expected to include Carrie Coon, Mckenna Grace, and Finn Wolfhard as a single mother and her children, respectively.
Here's what Jason Reitman, son of Ghostbusters and Ghostbusters 2 director Ivan Reitman (who will produce the new movie), had to say about Rudd's casting (via Variety):
“I...
In a new video (see below) shared on the official Ghostbusters Twitter page, with his trademark brand of quirky humor, Paul Rudd announced that he has joined the cast of the new Ghostbusters, fittingly revealing the news in front of the Firehouse, Hook & Ladder Company 8 building in New York City.
According to Variety, which refers to the new Ghostbusters movie as Ghostbusters 2020, Rudd will play a teacher in the film, joining a cast that is also expected to include Carrie Coon, Mckenna Grace, and Finn Wolfhard as a single mother and her children, respectively.
Here's what Jason Reitman, son of Ghostbusters and Ghostbusters 2 director Ivan Reitman (who will produce the new movie), had to say about Rudd's casting (via Variety):
“I...
- 6/27/2019
- by Derek Anderson
- DailyDead
The new Trading Spaces is right around the corner! The original TLC home improvement series aired between 2000 and 2008 and showed how neighbors redesigned rooms in each other's homes, with professional help, of course. A Trading Spaces reboot premieres next month and will feature returning cast members Paige Davis, the host, carpenter Ty Pennington, and designers Hildi Santo-Tomas, Genevieve Gorder, Laurie Smith, Doug Wilson and Vern Yip. The new series will also feature newbies Joanie Sprague, formerly of America's Next Top Model, and Hgtv star John Gidding. Many of the stars recalled in a Parade magazine interview some...
- 3/30/2018
- E! Online
With only six feature films to his name, four of which featured his iconic onscreen alter ego, the cinema of Jacques Tati remains an island of unique delight despite his influence on decades of filmmakers since and comparative efforts of peers from his own period (considering Marguerite Duras’ critique, now widely accepted, concerning the taken-for-granted stylistic likeness between Tati and Robert Bresson, a director whose subject matters were a bit less pleasant or comical). Without Tati and his bumbling character Monsieur Hulot, sputtering about memorably in a series of some of the most well-crafted moments of ingenious, highly organized chaos ever put to celluloid, we’d be without latter day influences, like Roy Andersson, Otar Iosseliani, several Peter Sellers characters, and even Rowan Atkinson’s similarly crafted Mr. Bean.
At the time, Tati’s obvious influences date back to the silent era, where Buster Keaton and Charles Chaplin crafted the...
At the time, Tati’s obvious influences date back to the silent era, where Buster Keaton and Charles Chaplin crafted the...
- 11/11/2014
- by Nicholas Bell
- IONCINEMA.com
It's that time of year again and it's time to update the list for the second half of 2014 as Barnes & Noble has just kicked off their 50% off Criterion sale and as impossible a task as it is to cut things down to just a few titles, I have done my best to break Criterion's titles down into a few categories. Hopefully those looking for box sets, specific directors or what I think are absolute musts will find this makes things a little bit easier. Let's get to it... First Picks I was given the Zatoichi collection for Christmas last year and being a collection that holds 25 films and another disc full of supplementary material it is the absolute definition of a must buy when it comes to the Criterion Collection. It is, once again, on sale for $112.49, half off the Msrp of $224.99, and worth every penny. I spent the entire year going through it.
- 11/11/2014
- by Brad Brevet
- Rope of Silicon
The Complete Jacques Tati (Criterion Collection) Every year Criterion seems to put together a collection of films that stands above the rest. Last year it was the Zatoichi collection of films, this year they celebrate Jacques Tati with a collection of his six feature films -- Jour de fecte, Monsieur Hulot's Holiday, Mon oncle, PlayTime, Trafic and Parade -- along with seven Tati-related short films. Unfortunately I was not sent a review copy, but once the Barnes & Noble, 50% off Criterion sale rolls around next month I think I'll have to add this one to my Christmas request list the same way I did with Zatoichi last year. As for my thoughts on the films, I personally love Hulot's Holiday and PlayTime, the latter of which you can read my review of the previous Criterion Blu-ray edition here, though as DVD Beaver has already shown, the transfer on this new release looks much different.
- 10/28/2014
- by Brad Brevet
- Rope of Silicon
Ok, so they’re not movie posters, but I’m making an exception for these marvels. The Criterion Collection has fostered many rewarding pairings of illustrators and filmmakers over the years—I’m thinking especially of Adrian Tomine’s Ozus and Daniel Clowes’ Sam Fullers—but the union of David Merveille and Jacques Tati was a match made in heaven long before Criterion commissioned this series of covers for their new box set.
Merveille is a Belgian children’s book illustrator who has been drawing Tati, or rather Monsieur Hulot, for years. In 2006 he published a wordless book of Hulot-inspired scenarios, Le Jacquot de Monsieur Hulot, which was followed by Hello Monsieur Hulot in 2010 and Monsieur Hulot s'expose in 2012. In the preface to the Us edition of Hello Mr Hulot, published last year, he writes that “It was in the year 2004 that I caught Hulot-fever. I had a drawing of...
Merveille is a Belgian children’s book illustrator who has been drawing Tati, or rather Monsieur Hulot, for years. In 2006 he published a wordless book of Hulot-inspired scenarios, Le Jacquot de Monsieur Hulot, which was followed by Hello Monsieur Hulot in 2010 and Monsieur Hulot s'expose in 2012. In the preface to the Us edition of Hello Mr Hulot, published last year, he writes that “It was in the year 2004 that I caught Hulot-fever. I had a drawing of...
- 10/26/2014
- by Adrian Curry
- MUBI
Criterion will be bringing The Complete Jacques Tati to DVD and Blu-ray on October 28, delivering Tati's six feature films -- Jour de fete, Monsieur Hulot's Holiday, Mon oncle, PlayTime, Trafic and Parade -- as well as seven of his short films. Of that lot, PlayTime, the film many consider to be his masterpiece, has not only received a new 4K digital restoration, but it will be playing the BFI's Southbank as part of a wider Jacques Tati season in November. amz asin="B00LUSUWSQ" size="small"I reviewed the Criterion Blu-ray edition of PlayTime back in August 2009 and wrote of its plot: PlayTime follows Monsieur Hulot played by Tati himself as he makes his way from one setting to the next, but Hulot, this time, is not the main focus of attention. Instead, modern architecture is the theme as it dictates human behavior from straight lines in the film's early...
- 9/29/2014
- by Brad Brevet
- Rope of Silicon
Directors like Alfred Hitchcock and Stanley Kubrick are notorious for the meticulous manner in which they constructed their films, shooting and reshooting to an incredible extent in order to get exactly what they wanted. But as demanding and thorough as they were, they pale in comparison to the precision of French filmmaker Jacques Tati. He only made a handful of films in his lifetime, with years separating each title as he tweaked and perfected them. His “Playtime,” is getting an official reissue, and there’s a new trailer to mark the occasion. Working from 1949 to 1974, Tati’s total feature output only consists of six movies—“Jour de Fete,” “Mr. Hulot’s Holiday,” “Mon Oncle,” “Trafic,” “Parade” and “Play Time.” Of these, many consider 1967’s “Playtime” to be his true masterpiece. After growing disillusioned with his signature Monsieur Hulot alter ego, nine years elapsed between this film and his previous effort,...
- 9/26/2014
- by Brent McKnight
- The Playlist
We're mourning the loss of Peter von Bagh along with countless others in the world cinema community. Many are sharing past articles on or by von Bagh. Here's Jonathan Rosenbaum's piece on the man, and his extraordinary film Helsinki, Forever:
"We’ve met at various times in Paris, London, New York, Southern California, Chicago, Helsinki, Sodankylä, and Bologna — and probably in other places as well, although these are the ones I currently remember. The first times were in Paris in the early 1970s, when he looked me up, and it must have been either in San Diego in 1977 or 1978 or in Santa Barbara between 1983 and 1987 that he convinced me to buy a multiregional Vcr. Most likely it was the latter, where I was mainly bored out of my wits apart from my pastime of taping movies from cable TV, and Peter maintained that if we started swapping films through the mail,...
"We’ve met at various times in Paris, London, New York, Southern California, Chicago, Helsinki, Sodankylä, and Bologna — and probably in other places as well, although these are the ones I currently remember. The first times were in Paris in the early 1970s, when he looked me up, and it must have been either in San Diego in 1977 or 1978 or in Santa Barbara between 1983 and 1987 that he convinced me to buy a multiregional Vcr. Most likely it was the latter, where I was mainly bored out of my wits apart from my pastime of taping movies from cable TV, and Peter maintained that if we started swapping films through the mail,...
- 9/25/2014
- by Notebook
- MUBI
The first entry into my "Best Movies" section was Federico Fellini's La Dolce Vita (read my essay here) and after rights to the film were finally decided I speculated as to whether or not Criterion will finally get their hands on the absolute classics. The answer is a resounding Yes as the Blu-ray release of the film has just been announced for October 21 with the following features: New 4K digital restoration by the Film Foundation, with uncompressed monaural soundtrack on the Blu-ray New visual essay by : : kogonada New interview with filmmaker Lina Wertmuller, who worked as assistant director on the film Scholar David Forgacs discusses the period in Italy's history when the film was made New interview with Italian film journalist Antonello Sarno about the outlandish fashions seen in the film Audio interview with actor Marcello Mastroianni from the early 1960s, conducted by film historian Gideon Bachmann Felliniana,...
- 7/15/2014
- by Brad Brevet
- Rope of Silicon
The Complete Jacques Tati Boxset & 'La Dolce Vita' Anchors The Criterion Collection October Releases
For the most part, The Criterion Collection tends to serve up four or five films each month, and perhaps something in their Eclipse line of down and dirty releases. But this October, they've got stuff coming that's so big, they're keeping the focus where it should be, rather than spreading themselves too thin. First up is "The Complete Jacques Tati," which as the title suggests, will feature his six feature length films — "Jour de fête," "Monsieur Hulot’s Holiday," "Mon oncle," "PlayTime," "Trafic," and "Parade" — along with seven short films as well. Needless to say this has all been beautifully restored, and yes, it will be coming absolutely packed with extras. This thing will be teeming with documentaries, archival interviews, visual essays and much, much, much, more. It's everything you could want as a Tati fan or newcomer alike, so get on it. A bonafide classic, Criterion has finally got their mitts on.
- 7/15/2014
- by Kevin Jagernauth
- The Playlist
What defines a “great director”? Not influence; of that I’m fairly sure, though the broader appeal of a director—any director, spiritual or commercial—solely rests on their place in “cinema history.” And if it is influence that dictates greatness, Tati most certainly would not be appearing on this list.
Whatever the case, this article will determine—whilst not being restricted to—some of the greatest directors from some of the greatest filmmaking nations.
5. France — Jacques Tati
I start with the most obscure choice on the list. Jacques Tati. Most would make a case as to why Jean Renoir, Jean Vigo or Jean-Luc Godard should be crowned France’s Goat, at least of the pack with forenames beginning with ‘J’, which I cannot argue. But Jacques has something no other director has ever had before, and what’s worse is that I cannot explain what it is. Perhaps it’s that M.
Whatever the case, this article will determine—whilst not being restricted to—some of the greatest directors from some of the greatest filmmaking nations.
5. France — Jacques Tati
I start with the most obscure choice on the list. Jacques Tati. Most would make a case as to why Jean Renoir, Jean Vigo or Jean-Luc Godard should be crowned France’s Goat, at least of the pack with forenames beginning with ‘J’, which I cannot argue. But Jacques has something no other director has ever had before, and what’s worse is that I cannot explain what it is. Perhaps it’s that M.
- 3/11/2013
- by Thomas Priday
- Obsessed with Film
Cinematographer who brought a sensuous style to 12 of Ingmar Bergman's films
The Swedish cinematographer Gunnar Fischer, who has died aged 100, could be said to have created the "look" of Ingmar Bergman's films, crystallised in three of the director's masterpieces: Smiles of a Summer Night (1955), The Seventh Seal and Wild Strawberries (both 1957). From Port of Call (1948) to The Devil's Eye (1960), 12 films in all, Fischer was able to make visible Bergman's visions.
He was born in Ljungby, in southern Sweden. After spending three years in the Swedish navy as a chef, he attended the Royal Academy of Art in Stockholm, where he studied with the celebrated decorative artist Otte Sköld. He had an apprenticeship in cinematography at Svensk Filmindustri (Sf), the country's leading production company. His mentor there was the cinematographer Julius Jaenzon, who worked with the two great masters of Swedish silent cinema, Victor Sjöström and Mauritz Stiller. This...
The Swedish cinematographer Gunnar Fischer, who has died aged 100, could be said to have created the "look" of Ingmar Bergman's films, crystallised in three of the director's masterpieces: Smiles of a Summer Night (1955), The Seventh Seal and Wild Strawberries (both 1957). From Port of Call (1948) to The Devil's Eye (1960), 12 films in all, Fischer was able to make visible Bergman's visions.
He was born in Ljungby, in southern Sweden. After spending three years in the Swedish navy as a chef, he attended the Royal Academy of Art in Stockholm, where he studied with the celebrated decorative artist Otte Sköld. He had an apprenticeship in cinematography at Svensk Filmindustri (Sf), the country's leading production company. His mentor there was the cinematographer Julius Jaenzon, who worked with the two great masters of Swedish silent cinema, Victor Sjöström and Mauritz Stiller. This...
- 6/14/2011
- by Ronald Bergan
- The Guardian - Film News
Updated.
"Gunnar Fischer, a cinematographer whose use of stark lighting and sharp focus lent mood and psychological depth to a dozen of Ingmar Bergman's early films, including The Seventh Seal and Wild Strawberries, died on Saturday in Stockholm," reports William Grimes for the New York Times. "He was 100."
"He is widely recognized as the first cinematographer to capture with unparalleled beauty the cruelty, sensuality and selfishness that often collided in the same scene among Bergman's anguished characters." Adam Bernstein: "Fischer's great skill was in monochrome,' or black and white, film historian and Bergman scholar Peter Cowie told The Washington Post in 2008. 'He gave Bergman's films that unique expressionistic look, with their brilliant contrasts in every gradation of black and white.' He translated Bergman's themes of emotional isolation, sexual anguish and fear of death into unforgettable images: cold Scandinavian sunlight sparkling off water in Summer Interlude (1951) and...
"Gunnar Fischer, a cinematographer whose use of stark lighting and sharp focus lent mood and psychological depth to a dozen of Ingmar Bergman's early films, including The Seventh Seal and Wild Strawberries, died on Saturday in Stockholm," reports William Grimes for the New York Times. "He was 100."
"He is widely recognized as the first cinematographer to capture with unparalleled beauty the cruelty, sensuality and selfishness that often collided in the same scene among Bergman's anguished characters." Adam Bernstein: "Fischer's great skill was in monochrome,' or black and white, film historian and Bergman scholar Peter Cowie told The Washington Post in 2008. 'He gave Bergman's films that unique expressionistic look, with their brilliant contrasts in every gradation of black and white.' He translated Bergman's themes of emotional isolation, sexual anguish and fear of death into unforgettable images: cold Scandinavian sunlight sparkling off water in Summer Interlude (1951) and...
- 6/14/2011
- MUBI
Sad news tonight folks. Longtime Ingmar Bergman collaborator, Gunnar Fischer, has passed away earlier today at the ripe old age of 100. I just saw the Masters Of Cinema twitter feed posting a link to this Swedish web site (HD.se), announcing that he had died earlier today in Sweden.
From the translated story:
Gunnar Fischer out of time
The photographer and film director Gunnar Fischer died on Saturday, 100 years old.
Stockholm. He worked closely with Ingmar Bergman in the 50′s in classic films such as Summer with Monika, The Seventh Seal, Wild Strawberries and The Magician.
- He passed away in the afternoon. This fall, he would have turned 101 years, says his son and cinematographer Jens Fischer said.
Gunnar Fischer was employed by the Swedish Film Industry 1935-1970 and the 1970-75 Svt.
Fischer‘s cinematography is well represented in the Criterion Collection. You can find him working with Bergman early...
From the translated story:
Gunnar Fischer out of time
The photographer and film director Gunnar Fischer died on Saturday, 100 years old.
Stockholm. He worked closely with Ingmar Bergman in the 50′s in classic films such as Summer with Monika, The Seventh Seal, Wild Strawberries and The Magician.
- He passed away in the afternoon. This fall, he would have turned 101 years, says his son and cinematographer Jens Fischer said.
Gunnar Fischer was employed by the Swedish Film Industry 1935-1970 and the 1970-75 Svt.
Fischer‘s cinematography is well represented in the Criterion Collection. You can find him working with Bergman early...
- 6/12/2011
- by Ryan Gallagher
- CriterionCast
"The Museum of Modern Art's retrospective of the French screenwriter, director, and actor Jacques Tati (born Jacques Tatischeff, 1907–1982) features newly struck, gloriously restored 35mm prints of his six feature films," brags the Museum, and well they should: "Monsieur Hulot's Holiday, Playtime, Mon Oncle, his long-dreamed-of colorized version of Jour de fête, the revelatory Traffic, and the little-seen Parade - along with three short sketch films." The series runs through January 2 and Jordan Hruska (T Magazine) notes that, architecturally, "MoMA is a perfect venue" for it, while Nicolas Rapold (Voice) notes that it follows "the huge Cinémathèque Française exhibition" and: "Besides a 1936 René Clément short with gangly Tati as a farm boy recruited for sparring (sports-based routines were initially his specialty), MoMA also shows the delightful Cours du soir (1966), shot during Playtime downtime, in which Tati presides at a night school for pratfalls and mime. It's quite an education, but then,...
- 12/22/2009
- MUBI
Jacques Tati was a master of burlesque. Emilie Bickerton on a French revolutionary
If you told Jacques Tati that his flight was delayed, he'd say terrific – and settle down to watch what he considered "the best movie of the year": people passing by. Observation gave the director all the material he needed for the four films he made over three decades. Tati liked to call himself "the Don Quixote of cinema", which captures his combination of idealism, imagination and generosity. Monsieur Hulot, his charming, self-effacing but out-of-synch comic creation, is the character with whom he is most often, and fondly, associated. But Tati's work cannot be reduced to the man with the too-short trousers. His films – from the early burlesque of Jour de fête in 1949 to the highly stylised modernism of Play Time in 1967 – might not have an intellectual message, but they are delightful witnesses to the second half...
If you told Jacques Tati that his flight was delayed, he'd say terrific – and settle down to watch what he considered "the best movie of the year": people passing by. Observation gave the director all the material he needed for the four films he made over three decades. Tati liked to call himself "the Don Quixote of cinema", which captures his combination of idealism, imagination and generosity. Monsieur Hulot, his charming, self-effacing but out-of-synch comic creation, is the character with whom he is most often, and fondly, associated. But Tati's work cannot be reduced to the man with the too-short trousers. His films – from the early burlesque of Jour de fête in 1949 to the highly stylised modernism of Play Time in 1967 – might not have an intellectual message, but they are delightful witnesses to the second half...
- 12/5/2009
- The Guardian - Film News
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